The Teenagers NYC, Better Propaganda SF and more

While I've been shying away from the next big thing hype shit for awhile now, tonight's Cheeky Bastard at Hiro Ballroom with The Teenagers has me psyched up. For those in NYC, here's your only chance to catch the band for free, as their Bowery show sold out and the Fixed one is $10. Add in a live show by Blacklist, a DJ set by The Teenagers, Sluttt with Redd Foxx and The Ruff Kids and you have yourself a pretty epic night. RSVP at the going.com site for the free admission; 1200+ people have already done so, which means getting there early is a good idea if you want to get in. Once you're in, you can enjoy a Lucky beer open bar from 10-11, 2 for 1 vodka drinks from 2-3 and $4 Sparks all night. 21+, this one may live up to the hype.

-For something like a little smaller and more intimate but just as rad, head to the Common Folk party at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St) where the Sweatshop Laborers Johnsville and Lucas Walters have a very special guest tonight, Lauren Flax of White Lightning and the 90s Party and a Pound for Pound post in the very near future. This one's called Freaks, which sounds about right, this is your night to act like one. Lots of great music tonight from various genres, free Shango rum from 10:30-11:30, things kick off at 10, end at 4, 21+.



-If you can't bear the thought of getting on the L and creeping along between Bedford and 1st Ave, head to the Hope Lounge (10 Hope Street btwn Roebling & Havermeyer) for what I think is a brand new party called Oonst Oonst. This one features some great NYC DJs as well, Dances With White Girls and Nick Hook. Dance music, 2 for 1 well drinks, great choice tonight. No cover, 21+.



-Down in Philly, it's another chance to check out the Seclusiasis Thursday party at Sal's (200 S. 12th St) DJ Ghost is joined every week by a special guest DJ, tonight it's Synikal of Tru Skool Recordings. This one should be extra hard tonight, as Synikal will spin some drum'n'bass and breakbeat along with the regular mix of rap, dubstep, grime and bassline. No cover, doors at 9pm, 21+.



-I mentioned this one for the first time last week and logically I made a mistake. So, just to get it out of the way, the Opolis party in Norman, Oklahoma is 18+, so the kids can come out and dance too. Everything else applies, Dylan Mackey, B. and friends, great music, fun times, $3.




-Finally, great night in San Francisco as Better Propaganda celebrates its fourth anniversary by throwing a party at the 111 Minna Gallery (111 Minna St) This one is jam packed, featuring live sets by electronic bands Lemonade, Ghosts On Tape and Official Tourist, plus DJ sets by Big Stereo's Rchrd Oh?! and Ryan Poulsen. It says it's free with an RSVP at their site with a weird registration, but there is a disclaimer that there is only a limited amount of free admissions. I'd just pay the $7 at the door, avoid all of this crap.

100 HZ - Trustlove

100 HZ, "Trustlove (Original 1999 version)" (YSI link)

100 HZ, "Trustlove (100 HZ 1999 remix)" (YSI link)

100 HZ, "Trustlove (Patrick Pulsinger remix)" (YSI link)

"I love you, but I don't trust you."Oh boy, this one is about as good as it gets around these parts. 100 HZ's "Trustlove" opens with a male voice speaking that very phrase over descending bass notes. All of this is a lead-in to one of the dopest tracks ever, 100 HZ's "Trustlove." The original 1999 version has more of a filthy electro house vibe, with a deep, rumbling bass and jackin' percussion. It's pretty bare bones, a perfect compliment to the distrustful lyrics. About 4 minutes in, pianos are added to the mix, shifting this one into a more of a classic house vibe. It actually works for me, although I'd probably prefer if they had stuck to the main sound, an unsettlingly, unforgettable tune. The 100 HZ 1999 remix sticks pretty close to the original version, making the bass even more a part of the proceedings and adding some effects here and there. I think this one might be the one for the dancefloor.

Unfortunately, I flipped on HBO late last night and walked right into one of the most depressing hour and a halfs you can experience. Dope Sick Love was on and damn if I didn't ignore my better instincts and watch the whole thing. For those that don't know, it's a documentary following two junkie couples as they try to get high and survive in NYC. It's insane, watching them shoot up in apartment building elevators and bathrooms, having sex to get money,etc. Possibly more insane is the fact that all of them are walking the same areas I am, including my beloved LES. The saddest part is that I wasn't sad for these four people and the ones around them they hurt but for myself because of the memories this brought up.Strike that, the really sad part is that these two guys, who clean their needles with toilet water and

Classic Night Moves NYC, Club Ave LA and more

Every so often a party will come around that excites me, that seems so right. Tonight's headliner, the Night Moves party at 205 Club (205 Chrystie St) is just such an event. Ooh boy, a night dedicated to house music and house music alone in my favorite space in the city with some of my fav DJs, Lauren Flax and Cobra Kai. What more could a boy or girl want? How about a special DJ set by the legendary Junior Sanchez? I'm so psyched for this one, it's time for everyone to show respect to the classic music that has helped get us to current dance scene. The three DJs tonight are the perfect guides for newbies and househeads alike, an amazing chance to hear this music in a sweaty basement for no charge, rather than the mega clubs uptown for 30 bucks. Hosted by Nick the Duke, this is an essential night New York City, show your support.

-You'll also want to stop by The Annex (152 Orchard St) for the weekly High Voltage party. This one's regular strength, no guest DJs or bands. But, like Coke, you'll realize that sometimes it's best to appreciate how good the original is. Dimitry!!! and Prince Terrence will spin all night, the Zygo open bar lasts from 11 until its gone, and you can dance until you can't stand no more. No cover, 21+.



-Ha, Robotic Wednesdays in Oklahoma City step their flier game up tonight. I mean, this birthday-themed one makes me wish it was my birthday and I have a pathological fear of that day. Kittens and photoshopping, yes please. Dance Robots, Dance DJs and rad music, yes please. Get to the Electro Lounge (5929 N. May Ave), wish Blake, Christa, Serene and Albin happy birthday and enjoy a great night. $3, 21+.



-Riverside California goes off tonight, as the Club Avenue Wednesday party at Trilussa (3737 Main St) has a great cast of LA's finest in the house. Acid Girls, Dirty Dave, Billy Noorlag, Jimmy Boy and Rec 1 will be spinning, Gina Turner will perform live and celebrate the release of her new White Panties CD; if you need even more CD release celebrating, there'll be more for Steve Aoki's new LP. There'll be lots of giveaways all night, plus great music running the gamut from new electro and indie dance to rap and Bmore club. 2 rooms, 2 bars, drink specials, 18+. You'll have to message their myspace account to get on the $5 guest list, otherwise it'll be



-Finally, for the minimal heads in LA, check out this party presented by Droid Behavior + Compression, which features Tobias Thomas from the Kompakt label spinning. This is a rare chance for LA people to hear one of the main players in the Cologne scene spin, you're not gonna wanna miss this one. Locals Matt Xavier and Andrew Kelley will also spin, a big night of techno and deep house. Oddly, it all goes down at Crash Mansion (1024 S. Grand), a place that specializes in douchebags and bad rock music in NYC. RSVP now to droidbehavior@gmail.com for free admission. Doors at 9pm, 21+.

Restless Leg Syndrome PHILA, Panic! PROV and more

If you ever had the good fortune of sleeping in the same bed as me, you would know that I have struggled with a disease that seems to have come out of nowhere, Restless Leg Syndrome. Thanks to Philly dudes Dave T and Ryan Nation, I think that I will now be able to associate the phrase with one of the best parties in Philadelphia instead of my unbearable bed behavior. It's Restless Leg Syndrome upstairs at The Khyber, this one's dedicated to the music that matters - house, acid, minimal and electro. This is melt your face, change your life music, spun by guys who know what they spin of. Dave and Ryan have brought in a special guest tonight, Peter Dragontail makes his first ever DJ appearance after a string of rad remixes for Daft Punk, MGMT and Hot Chip. Don't sleep on this party people, once a month, make this a regular stop and support people and parties dedicated to our music. No cover, 21+.

-For even more dance music, you can head to Sal's (200 S. 12th St) for the Girls Rule Boys Drool party. Scotty Ack and Diamond Girl give you a night devoted to the indie dance, new electro and rock remixes each and every Tuesday, great young DJs, good space, cheap night to help you get through the week. No cover, 21+.



-I've said it before, this is one of my favorite parties in NYC. 205 Tuesdays, the basement of 205 Club with Jacques Renault and Justin Miller, disco paradise. Tonight is another special one, as Dangerous Dan from the Bang Gang Deejays is the special guest, here's your chance to catch if you missed him at the Tribeca Grand Friday. It's also the last night Jacques will spin, for a bit as he'll be gone until March, so get a final night together and say goodbye. No cover, doors at 11pm.



-Park Slope, how the hell are you? It's been too long since we have spoken. How's Rachel's? How's Suki? How's Maya? It's always nice to see something going on in the south side of Brooklyn, I'm hoping that this Head N Tail party at Royale (506 Fifth Ave) will be a regular night. Carmine P. Filthy will spin all night, expect lots of good electronic music from the darker end of the spectrum. No cover, 21+, awesome flier. Oh, I figured out that Flip Nite Tuesdays means that you buy your first drink at regular price, flip a coin and if you call it right, the second drink is free. Nice concept!



-On my end of town, it's Do It Tuesdays at Hugs (108 N. 6th St) with Carrie Whitenoise and Shinratek. Tonight, they are bringing in the Ladycreme duo from Hyptone Records; I haven't heard them before, but the Brooklyn duo definitely are worth checking out, releasing their own original productions that combine the modern electro sound with acid and italo influences. I expect their DJ sets will follow similar ground, a good compliment to the residents. No cover, 21+.



-It's always nice to see some of new parties start up in places we hope to cover better, and that's the case tonight in Providence, as the Panic party at Club Hell (73 Richmond St). Brad Rhodes and Michael Savant will be the resident DJs, spinning recent club bangers , indie tunes, dance classics, everything and anything good since the 80s. Tonight, you get a guest DJ set by Paper's E-Marce, the Boston dude will spin an indie dance, electro rock set that will go over big. Plus, there's a live performance by Triangle Forest, making this a jammed packed opening night. $5, doors at 9pm and it goes until 1 am, 18.



-I'm not sure if this dANCE party has scared off all comers, but it seems to have become the dominant Tuesday night event in the LA area. Let me first say that this is by far my favorite flier they've done, love the orange, the muted colors and the space-y design. Tonight's edition at Arena (6655 Santa Monica Blvd) appears to pit the city vs. its suburban neighbor, LA vs OC. In from the OC - I feel sick writing that - are DJs Tony Long and Dax, who will hold it down for Ryan Atwood and Marissa Cooper. LA is represented by the residents, Paparazzi, Bip Jeffington and Joaquin, a battle for the ages. 2 rooms, 2 levels, free parking, $5 before 10:30 with a flier, 18+.

Studio - Yearbook 1

Studio, "Origin (Shake You Down By The River)" (YSI link)

I mentioned Studio recently with their awesome Kylie Minogue remix, needed to put up tracks from their recent LP, Yearbook 1. This album is really just a repackaging, bringing together their earlier West Coast LP and No Comply 12" into a super-dope CD. It's probably easier to say that that is one of the best releases from 2007, one of those albums that seems completely confident in itself, in spite of, or maybe because of, the fact that the music sounds like little else out there.

We didn't really give much detail on Studio when we referenced them previously, so let's do a little background, little being the operative word. The Swedish group consists of two members, Dan Lissvik and Rasmus Hagg, who have a handful of releases on the tiny Information label. They seem to be a part of this cosmic disco/Scandalearic scene that has formed around Lindstrom and Prins Thomas, which has stretched out, slowed down and loosened up electronic music.

Yearbook 1 is only eight tracks, but it clocks in at over 70 minutes long. There aren't any bad songs in my opinion, a great mix of shorter songs and epic jams, instrumentals and vocals, cosmic disco, pop, electrorock and more comes and goes during the course of the album. Take the track above, "Origin (Shake You Down By The River)." It starts out with an warped laugh moving from one ear to the next, then what sounds like a jet takes off and out of this intro, an awesome, funky bassline, a dreamy guitar and percussion comes in and suddenly a Latin/Afrobeat-ish track quickly comes forward. As the song progresses, the pace picks up and things get more rocking, without ever feeling forced. That might be the greatest part of this album, its willingness to take its time, to not rush. Two of my favorites tracks, "Out There" and "Life's A Beach," clock in at nearly 16 minutes and 13 minutes a piece, mini-masterpieces that hearken back to the disco epics. Man, this is rad music, I can't recommend it more highly right now.

Okay, one big reason for doing this post is to help get the word out and get this CD and all of their previous work a US release. C'mon respected labels, bring this one to the states, the kids are just waiting to have the minds blown by this group. If you can afford it, cop the imported version from Amazon for a little less than $30. Or perhaps a better option is to buy West Coast, the 2006 LP, which is available for domestic prices. I mean, you really need this music in your life, let's hope someone steps up and get their upcoming album a widespread release.

Lady Miss Kier in SF, The Teenagers in CHI, LA Riots in PHILA and more

Really rad party being put on tonight in San Francisco by Big Stereo, Eggs and Mezanine. It features the one and only Lady Miss Kier from Dee-Lite doing a DJ set, a real dance music legend who sadly is probably known only fr "Groove Is In The Heart." But, if you're gonna be remembered for one thing, that's not a bad one. I expect a great mix of house and pop and dance from her, bring some of that late 80s club magic back. If that wasn't enough, you also get a live show by Melissa Logan from Chicks On Speed, Safety Scissors and, best of all, one from Planningtorock, who opened for LCD Soundsystem last year and killed it imo. There's also the Big Stereo DJs, Rchrd Oh?! and Miss Toats, guaranteeing the dance floor stays current and live. Inspired booking here, grab your advance $15 tickets now.

-Oh, San Fran, your choice for tonight just got a lot harder. Pretty massive dance night at Mighty (119 Utah St), as Tommie Sunshine AND Juan MacLean are spinning tonight. Two big names from NYC, should be an interesting mix of more big-room rock influened stuff and deeper, housier music. Lights Down Low's Sleazemore will also spin, good for him. Go here to grab advance tickets with a discount, use SLEAZEMORE as promo code.


-If you want to start the night early in SF, head over to the Beauty Bar (19th and Mission) for the Bad Habits happy hour party. It goes from 7-10, good way to get the night rolling so that you don't have to go from 0-60 at 10:30pm.



-Chicago won't be outdone on the special guest/live show front, as Avant Trill and the Dark Wave Disco have brought The Teenagers to town to melt your faces. Really psyched about this one, as AT and DWD have been doing so many great parties on the smaller side, this one deserves maximum hype. This band has a ton of hype, but they've exceeded all of the unfair expectations so far. Chicago, you're not going to want to miss these guys on their first stop in your city, so get to Sonotheque (. Also, make sure to check out the most excellent Dark Wave Disco DJs - Trancid, Greg Corner and Mark Gertz - who will be spinning all night and reminding you to check them out every Thursday at Debonair. Also, the Avant Trillers Jillian Valentino and Scott Cramer host with Paul In Chicago and CT Couture, everyoneisfamous.com is photo-ing, should be an amazing night. Doors at 9, goes til 3am, $4 Goose Island and Svedka cocktails



-In Brooklyn, it's Crooked Disco at Galapagos (70 N. 6th St), Free NYC's party. This one features a video-audio mixing crew from London called Ecletic Method, sounds like something different and interesting. The straight audio part of the night sounds even better, with Seattle's Krnl Panic, Dances With White Girls and DJ Morsy spinning ghetttech, house, electro, rap and everything else you need in your life. $5 with an RSVP to rsvp@crooked-disco.org, open bar from 10-11. Doors at 10pm, 21+.



-A few blocks away, Philly White Ts and White Belts guys, Emynd and B Bliz, come to Williamsburg for the Wamp! Wamp! party at Supreme Trading (213 N. 8th St) They join birthday boy Moe Choi and Erik The Red for night of dirty rap and dirtier beats. No cover, 21+.



-I feel like I can't put this one as top choice every Saturday, but secretly I want to. It's the U.N.I.T.Y. 90s party at Hugs (108 N. 6th St) with Lauren Flax and JD Samson. Tonight, the UK's Daughters of Kaos are the special guests, I'm assuming they will stick to the 90s-only restrictions. No c0ver, 21+, feel young again.



-Late addition, awesome flier. Flagrant Fowl's Cousin Cole and Moonwalk's Rezound are gonna be spinning all night at Hope Lounge (10 Hope Street) This should be a nice relaxed night, Cole and Rezound will spin the classics you love and the stuff you've never heard. Good place to stop in or park it all night. No cover, 21+.



-Philly, this one's important. Pound for Pound has been big fans of LA Riots from jump street, they are making their Philly debut tonight at the Mad Pu$$y party at Transit (6th and Spring Garden) As you may know, I've been a big fan of Philly since I was born at Pennsylvania Hospital, so I want everyone to get to the basement and give these guys the best reception they have gotten on tour. Freak out, dance, drink, kiss, just be yourselves and show them why you are the best city on earth. Brendan Bring'em is upstairs in the main room, spinning his mix of rap, dancehall, pop, r&b, you know him. Go here and get on the list, $5 before midnight if you are on it, free PBR from 10-12. Let's do it Philly, yeah!



-Or you can hit up Live Forever at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) with JHN RDN, Designer Drugs and Club Lyfestile, where the dance music will make you immortal. $5, 21+.



-atlanta

Robot Rock With LA Riots NYC, Fixed NYC and more

It's a really exciting night in New York City, a rare Friday night where I would highly recommend a night out below 14th Street. A big part of that is the return to the city of LA Riots, one of those bands that you will not stop talking about once you hear them, a hype band where the hype is deserved. This time, they are playing the Robot Rock party at Le Royale (21 7th Ave South @ Leroy), not sure the West Village is ready for the nasty electro sounds. This party has been big since jump street, another hit for GBH and Cheeky Bastard, DJs Dimitry!!!, Alex English, Marc-Alan Grey and Sujinho will spin before and after the show to guarantee you a dance party. RSVP to list@gbh.tv to get in for free, $10 otherwise. Doors at 10pm, 21+, don't miss this one.

-My other top recommendation is the return of the Fixed party to the Tribeca Grand (2 Avenue of the Americas), the space where it all began. Dave P and JDH have brought in the excellent Dangerous Dan from the Bang Gang Deejays to headline and melt everyone's faces. Presented by Modular, this should be a really great night, the Tribeca Grand is a super rad place to hang and party, tends to be an older, more fun crowd. I know it seems like a place where lawyers go to die, but it's not. RSVP to weare138nyc@yahoo.com to get on the list and get in for free, doors at 10pm, upstairs through the bar area.



-In Brooklyn, Fridays belong to the FUN party at Studio B (259 Banker St) Tonight's one for the rock kids, as Radio 4 and Dragons of Zynth are both playing live. It's a good bill of rock bands that let all sorts of influences seep in like noise, punk and dance. Speaking of dancing, residents Rok One of The Bangers and Eamon Harkin will spin along with special guest DJs The Brothers. Hosted by the Finger On The Pulse guys, you can email them to get on the reduced list at . Otherwise, get your $10 advanced ticket, I'm guessing it'll be $15 at the door. Doors at 10pm, 1+.



-Down in Philly, there's a few good things for those who like their music with lots of bass and/or rapping. The Seclusiasis crew takes over the Khyber Upstairs (56 S. 2nd St) for The Straight Dope party. Residents Dev79 and bd1982 have brought in DJJJC and Honkeytron from the West Wax collective for this night dedicated to rap, booty, electro, dancehall and anything else that works. No cover, $1 PBR and High Lifes until 11pm, 21+.



-Over at the Arts Garage (1535 Ridge Ave), the second Money Folders party happens. They've brought The Philadelphyinz back to rock the crowd with rap and club classics. APT One and Skinny Friedman will be joined by DJ Gravity, plus there are appearances by a ton of rappers. It's 18+, BYOB, $10, ladies free before 10:30.



-Down in D.C., Friday night is your night to spend at Le Freak with Will Eastman. Our bol holds it down at Napoleon (1847 Columbia Road) with a great mix of house, pop, rap, r&b, booty and disco, the perfect soundtrack to kick off your weekend. As always, half-priced champagne from 9-11, no cover, 21+, good times.



-Wisconsin, are you ready? DJs from the west are invading one of your towns tonight, I feel I should warn you. The Too Much Love DJs of Minneapolis - Soviet Panda, Moon Goon's Jonathan Ackerman, Dan Cruse and DJ Tanner - are coming to the Stones Throw (304 Eau Claire St) in Eau Claire tonight and you won't want to miss it. This will be a great night of dance rock, punk, indie, electro and more, all for $3! Doors at 9pm, 21+.



-Comeback has come back, Seattle, as the dance party takes over Chop Suey (1325 E. Madison St) You should be glad it is back, as they have special guest DJ Nightschool, a.k.a. Nathan from The Gossip, to take this one to the next level. DJs Colby B, Fucking In The Streets and DJ Porq will add to the dirty, filthy mayhem. Get there before midnight to get in for $5, doors at 9pm, 21+.



-Ahh, another one of my favorites, the Lights Down Low party in San Francisco. I wish I could have put the entire flier here, but this part should be enough to get you to check this out, as I love that quote. Tonight, Sleazemore and Rchrd Oh?! are joined by Eric Sharp for what should be a night of dirty and fidget house, massive electro ragers and all sorts of things in between. Parker Day takes photos, down in the basement of 222 Club (222 Hyde @ Turk)



-Two good choices in the LA area tonight. For my hip-hop kids, check out the Made You Look Fridays party at Detroit Bar (834 W. 19th St), where Pase Rock headlines with Melo-D. Pase is a great DJ, feel like it's a guaranteed good time and hyped crowd with him involved. Melo-D comes out of that line of classic hip-hop DJs like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Cut Chemist, etc, technically skilled, knowledgeable about the music and mindful that he is spinning for a crowd not their buddies. Devyn C and Mr. White join them in the main room, while DJ Legit, DJ TJ and GMO take over the second room. Presented by Vapors, photos by Shadowscene, rsvp at mylfridays@gmail.com, $15 admission, 21+.



-For the rock kids, head to Safari Sam's (5214 Sunset Blvd) where it's Club 82 vs. BRMC. This one's the afterparty for the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Keith 2.0 and DJ (N) will spin along with special secret guests. I'm guessing that it may be members of a band that is holding its afterparty here, but you'll have to go there to find out. This one starts after the sold-out show, doors at 11:30, free with a flier or ticket until 1:25, 18+.

Larry Levan - Live At The Paradise Garage

Larry Levan, Live at the Paradise Garage Disc 1 (YSI link) (Sendspace link)

I'm not sure if there's something in the air or what, but this post looks at another musical artist taken from us way too soon. Larry Levan is a legend, a hero for this blog, one of the many people who helped to create the disco sound and scene. We're gonna come back to Mr. Levan a lot, so I won't go on to much about his biography.

One essential fact of the Levan story is the residency at the Paradise Garage that Levan began in 1977. The Garage was located in Greenwich Village at 84 King Street in an old parking garage (hence, the name). Founded by Michael Brody and Mel Charen, it was a member's only place and no liquor, food or drink was served. The club was modeled after David Mancuso's Loft, although its owners intended it to be a downtown version of Studio 54, a gay club for rich white men. From the beginning, though, the Garage would bring in a diverse crowd and Levan's sets reflected that diversity perfectly.

I can't begin to tell you how perfect this music sounds to me, from those first beautiful keys on Ashford and Simpson's "Bourgie Bourgie" straight through. I tend to think of dance music as being synthetic, cold, mechanical (and love it for that!), but Levan's DJ sets were the complete opposite. His sets were filled to the brim with classic Philly soul, funk and pop, lovely strings, huge drum breakdowns, brassy horns, as warm as a summer day. It's ecstatic music, joyous, life-affirming. emotional; during the refrain of T-Connection's "In Midnight," I'm always brought to tears, when that bassline goes nuts and Theo Coakley sings "When midnight come around, I really come alive. At Midnight! Oh I really come alive," it makes me feel alive.

For the record, this is the first disc of the out-of-print Live At The Paradise Garage 2 CD set from 2003. If there's interest, I will put up the second disc. Download this, your life will be better from here on out, I promise. Disco will save your life.

Common Folk NYC, Opolis OK and more

This was an easy choice to lead off with, as we have always been a big supporter of the Sweatshop Labor bols' Common Folk party at Home Sweet Home. Tonight looks extra special, as they have a very special guest spinning; DJ Benny Blanco will spin a Disco D tribute tonight. For those that don't know, Blanco worked as an intern for Disco D and was one of his proteges. In the past year, Blanco has done big things with his Bangers and Cash Spank Rock collabo, surely making his mentor proud. I expect that Blanco, Johnsville and Lucas Walters will spin lots of bass, booty music, baile funk and rap. The Fader folks have also given this one a thumbs-up, should be an amazing night and a nice tribute. Shango Rum open bar from 10:30-11:30, no cover, 21+.

-You should also stop by another of my favorite Thursday night parties, the biweekly Unstoppable Perfect at Happy Ending (302 Broome St) rekLES and SeanMF'NRoberts will spin all the good genres you like to hear, from electro to indie to house to 80s, all done with skill and verve. I've said it before, this is a really great party that gets a good crowd that is more into having fun than having their picture taken. Hosted by Julius O. and Antwan of Ithinkyoureswell.com, there's an open bar from 11-12, these two parties are a great 1-2 LES punch tonight, do it. No cover, 21+.



-Further uptown, Cheeky Bastard presents Fully Fitted at Hiro Ballroom (371 W. 16th St) Awesomely, this means that New York gets a live show from Philly's Amanda Blank, the great but way too underexposed female rapper. She's joined by the Spank Rock DJs, Devlin and Darko, plus Spank Rock producer XXXchange, for a night of filthy rap and Bmore club at this great weekly party. Take note that this one starts at midnight, not 10pm. RSVP at the going.com site to get in for free, 2 for 1 vodka drinks from 2-3am. There's already 800+ people on the list, should be big night.



-Brooklyn's Chief Magazine is throwing a party at Galapagos (70 N. 6th St) tonight. They're not being subtle as they've named it Shake That Ass, I'm all for that sort of explictness. Rev McFly, DJ Dirty Finger and DJ TeenWolf will help you achieve that ass-shaking goal with a steady dose of bangers until you just can't get it still. $5 cover, doors at 10pm, 2 for 1 vodka from 11 to midnight.



-Norman, Oklahoma, stand the fuck up! The Dance Robots Dance crew are coming to your city with their weekly Opolis party. Well, actually, it's DJs B. and Dylan spinning electro and dance and indie all night for your pleasure, they do it every Thursday, so I'm thinking you should just pencil this in for the next few months. $3 cover, doors at 9pm, 21+.



-Finally, San Fran's up next in the much-hyped tour by Paris' The Teenagers. This is their live debut in the city and it's fitting that they are joining up with the indie dance mavens at Popscene to make it happen. DJs Aaron and Omar of Popscene and Rchrd Oh?! of Big Stereo will spin before and after, giving you the chance for both a great concert and a rad dance party. Get to 330 Ritch Street, as the magic happens there. $12 for 21+, $13 for 18+, doors at 10pm.

Disco D -Fuck Me On The Dancefloor

Disco D, "Fuck Me On The Dancefloor" (YSI link)

Disco D, "You Need Another Drink" (YSI link)

Disco D, "You Need Another Drink (dirty dub)" (YSI link)

One year and a day ago, Dave Shayman took his own life. I've taken this hard, despite not knowing the guy, just as someone who respected and admired the music of Disco D and has struggled with mental illness. I don't have anything more to say about this a year later, it still seems senseless and sad and makes me wish that we had a country more willing to confront and treat mental illness. In lieu of a lack of words, I wanted to pay respects by putting up one his most famous singles, the Fuck Me On The Dancefloor 12," remind people of his extraordinary talent.

For me, this was the stuff I loved most. I know that his hip-hop productions were probably more skilled and brought him more attention, but the ghettotech releases are not surprisingly where I came to know about Disco D and still brings me back. One listen to "Fuck Me On The Dancefloor" and I think you will hear how he was bringing a hybrid of those genres here, with Princess Superstar rapping, D adding scratches throughout and generally bringing a little more bounce than the harder, straight ghettotech sound. "Need Another Drink" is my personal favorite, a little more traditional with the minimal drums and the repeating vocals. Disco adds this great sort of burping bassline though that gives this one a little extra funkiness that you don't hear with a lot of this Detroit stuff.

I know that this isn't an adequate tribute for one person's life, but not sure there's anything else to do but keep his music out there, keep his spirit alive and remind others that there are too many people leaving us way too soon.

Kylie - 2 Hearts

Kylie, "2 Hearts" (YSI link)

Kylie, "2 Hearts (Alan Braxe remix)" (YSI link)

Kylie, "2 Hearts (Studio version)" (YSI link)

It's not often that a post about Kylie Minogue isn't all about Kylie. I mean, it's Kylie, the discopop queen who gave me and the world "Can't Get You Out Of My Head" and "Love At First Sight." However, one listen to the Studio remix of the first single "2 Hearts" from her recent album X and you'll forget about the Australian goddess and think only of an Ibizan sunset party with a bunch of Norwegians. From the first flamenco guitar notes, this one just sounds so right to me. The guitars lead the way, while a lazy beat and some FX keep things laidback and easy throughout. Just as importantly, they've altered the vocals, taking out this annoying "Whoo" that Kylie does during the refrain. I love how this one sort of floats along, lovelovelove it. Much more to come with Studio and this sound, cross my heart.

It's an improvement over the original, which never quite gels for me. There's nothing bad about this one, Kylie's voice sounds good, the piano just gives it a plodding sound that doesn't work for our girl. It's always nice to see Alan Braxe's name attached to any project, being a legend and all. I feel like it's too rare to hear the man, even more rare to see him doing his remix thing solo, without the aid of Fred Falke. This isn't one of my favorite things he's ever done (those "Whoo-hoo"s really wear on me here), although he does bring a nice big beat that gives the song a better dancefloor feel and a rumbling bass to make the song much more dirty and nasty, and therefore better.

Grab a copy of the LP, it's getting good reviews at Amazon and can you ever really go wrong with Kylie Minogue.

Tomorrow's Radio PHILA, Thirsty BK and more

Okay, I need to run to check out some eyeglasses so I can get that chic nerd look going again and see things that are 20 feet away. Easy choice for top event, as a new monthly starts in Phill called Tomorrow's Radio and it features three of the best DJs anywhere in the world, Low Budget, Ian St. Laurent and Brendan Bring'em. They've been responsible for some of the city's best parties seperately, Hollertronix, Hands and Knees, Crescendolls, Soul Travelin'. Lucky for you Philadelphians, they've come together to form one great party at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave), spinning rap, indie dance, reggae, party music, dance music, the music of the future. $5 cover, $1 well drinks and PBRs from 10-11pm, 21+.

-On the southside, the click. party returns to Fluid (613 S. 4th St.) after a break. Dave P and Adam Sparkle have a ton of new tunes to drop on you, you will dance the night away. I mean, it's the click. party, do this! No cover, $1 PBRs and $2 well drinks until midnight, $2 PBRs all night, you dancing until 2 am.



-It's great seeing Throne Of Blood's Dances With White Girls spinning out so much lately, even better to see him setting a new weekly party at Royal Oak (594 Union Ave) called Thirsty. While you enjoy the crazy drink specials, DWWG will spin real house music, club stuff, rap, good stuff only. No cover, insane drink specials and tacos, that's a night right there.



-It looks like a good night to hang out in Williamsburg bars and listen to good DJs. Head to the Huckleberry Bar (588 Grand Ave@Lorimer) to check out the Humpin' Around party with DJ Benny B. He's made a great choice bringing in Rezound and Workweek, who normally spend Wednesday night spinning at their Moonwalk party at Happy Ending. This one will stick to the rap and r&b end of the spectrum, lots of older stuff, should be good. No cover, $4 Bud and Bud Lites, 21+.



-Speaking of Happy Ending (302 Broome St), when Moonwalk isn't happening, Wednesdays feature Rev McFly and crew. Tonight's party is called Poppin' Bottles, Gettin Pregnant, not sure how literal that you should take that. Presented by Cavemansav.com, hosted by Rev McFly, Teenwolf, Diamond Caviar and Zebra Katz will spin classic rap and 80s and more upstairs, one of the best parties around. No cover, 21+.



-Man oh man, my bol Dimitry is on the grind. Each week, he keeps bringing in bigger names to his High Voltage party at The Annex (152 Orchard St), outdoing everyone on a weekly basis. Tonight, he's got the Cool Kids coming through to DJ a set before they play live the rest of the week. You also get Dimitry!!! and fellow resident Prince Terrence, the Zygo vodka open bar from 11 until its gone and Nicky Digital taking photos. RSVP at the going.com site; there's almost 300 people on this one already, so you know it's gonna be packed! Yeah! No cover, 21+.

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-Out in Chicago, it's time to Rawk On Chicago. Seriously, it's a party tonight at Moonshine (1824 W Division) with DJs Bald Eagle, Hilary Rawk, Marco Morales and RSB1000 of 0+1= Everything. There's half-price pizza all night and drink, whih sounds like a little slice of heaven to me. Get it? Slice? Nicely done. It should be a great way to escape the cold and have a fun, relaxed Wednesday night.



-Up in Minneapolis, dancepunkers We Are Wolves continue their mini-Midwest run. They have invited along the most rad Soviet Panda to spin before their show at 7th Street Entry at 1st Ave (701 First Ave N) Good to see the Too Much Love hero getting to play bigger and bigger stages, bring him to your city next. Doors at 8pm, $6, 18+.



-At a certain point, I hope that this country renames Wednesday Robotic Wednesdays. I will want the Dance, Robots Dance crew to lead the way and take control of this national adoption. In the meantime, until I become president, the people of Oklahoma City are gonna have to celebrate for the rest of us. The guys take over the Electro Lounge (5929 N May Ave) as they do every week, expect crunchy electro, dance rock, punk, ghettotech, 80s, glam, photos by Dinah Jean, and lots of fun and good people in a scene that will only get better and bigger. Doors at 10pm, 21+.

The Winter Collection NYC, Outdance CHI and more

I've mentioned that I'd like to take a better account of the big clubs out there and thankfully the rad Taste Crew have helped me get started by putting together The Winter Collection at the Meatpacking District mega-club Cielo (18 Little West 12th St) They've brought in some of my favorite DJs in the city for the night of great dance music - Beats In Space's Tim Sweeney, Nublu's Justin Carter and DJ Probus, plus Turntable Lab's Egg Foo Young and Gypsy Bogdan. Expect lots of disco, Italo, deep house, techno, all on a massive soundsystem. To make this one even radder, RSVP at cielo@thetastecrew.com to get in for free and enjoy a Stella Artois open bar from 10-12. $10 w/o the RSVP, a great night at a megaclub with some NYC's best DJs. Yeah!

-Or if you want to have something more intimate and dirty, join the Lewd DJs, rekLES and Sean MuthaFukkinRoberts, in the basement of Club Midway (25 Ave. B) for the Organic Distortion party. Presented by Dana Distortion and Jade, this one's for the rock kids looking to go crazy and dance. Dana Distortion and DJade spin upstairs, DJ Jake Destroyer is the guest in the basement. $3 Sangria specials, no cover, 21+.



-Back in Brooklyn, there's the weekly Do It party at Hugs (108 N. 6th St) Resident DJs Carrie Whitenoise and Shinratek have brought in Kendra of the Waxx Dolls to bring some more tech/house music to the mix. Minimal will make you warmer! Hosted by Jane Bang, there's no cover, 21+.



-Here's a new monthly party at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) called I Am The Traitor. I have no clue who the "I" is in that title, but I know it's not me, as I am a loyal patriot. DJ Dior spins at this one with special guests Jacci Stallone of the Redrum party and Cody Ferdinand from the Philly experimental band Gildon Works. I'm guessing that this one will be heavy on the rock and noise side of things, not a lot of info out there on this one. I trust The Barbary though, no cover, 21+.



-For a more known quantity, head to Sal's (200 S. 12th) for the Girls Rule Boys Drool party, where DJs Scotty Ack and Diamond Girl will bring you a heavy dose of dance music from the more indie side of things. These two are names to watch, believe me. No cover, 21+.



-I can't even imagine how cold it is in Chicago, in fact, I'm not going to. Instead, I'm going to imagine how much fun tonight's Outdanced! party at the Funky Buddha (728 W. Grand Ave) There's going to be live performances by Montreal's We Are Wolves and local minimal synth band Rubix Dudes. There's DJ sets by Life During Wartime's Mother Hubbard, Mr. Bobby and Derek Berry. There's dollar drinks while they last. There's also you. RSVP to outdanced@yahoo.com and be warm and drunk and dance-y.



-Finally, in the land where it's never cold, the weekly dANCE party at Arena (6655 Santa Monica Blvd) gives you the perfect chance to celebrate your good fortune. This week's version looks like a good one, with local dance dons Acid Girls headlining. The residents Paparazzi, Bip Jeffington and Joaquin will also be there, indie dance bangers as far as the ear can hear. $5 before 10:30 with a flier, $10 otherwise. Doors at 9:30pm, 18+.

Caribou - She's The One

Caribou, "She's The One (Hot Chip remix)" (YSI link)

Caribou, "She's The One (Kelley Polar's Hughes Wilson Prom Night In Hell version" (YSI link)

Not sure why, but I feel a little melancholy today. Blame it on the weather, the unread emails from an ex or just being me. I'm not sure if Dan Snaith's music as Caribou is good for me right now or if it just makes me a little bluer, but when the music is this beautiful and essential, I just need to get over myself.

"She's The One" is the first single off of the 2007 Andorra album and one of the best songs of the past year. It combines that psychedelic pop sound perfectly with lyrics about love and that one girl. It's just the type of song I love, a dark love song about heartbreak and love lost and moving on. "Every night there's a new name on her mind that I don't think I recognize/
and it's never strange just how long she stays away, I guess I'll have to compromise." Not surprisingly, this one was co-written by Jeremy Greenspan of Pound for Pound favorite Junior Boys, who do this sort of music perfectly. Anyway, if you have not bought the LP, do not hesitate in buying your copy today.

The label came up with two interesting choices for remixers, Hot Chip and Environ's Kelley Polar. Hot Chip have added a beat to the mix, stretched it out by double and added two almost-euphoric breakdowns. The first is slower and more deliberate, the second is a little more of freak-out to close things out. Definitely somthing different from the guys, not my favorite. While everyone is probably going to gravitate towards the Hot Chip remix, the real treat is the one by Kelley Polar. This one has to be heard, as Polar has turned the original into a spoken word experimental disco track. There's amazing soaring harmonies, sweeping strings, claps and off-key chords, it sounds like nothing you've heard in quite a while. The best guidepost I can say is to think back to the late 70s, early 80s when guys like Arthur Russell brought the avant-garde to the dancefloor. I'm really liking this one,

I highly recommend grabbing one of the copies of the 12" before they are gone, as you won't want to miss a chance to have the original and the additional new track, "Niobe." You won't be disappointed.

Tracey Thorn - It's All True

Tracey Thorn, "It's All True (DSE dub)" (YSI link)

Tracey Thorn, "It's All True (Martin Buttrich remix)" (YSI link)

Tracey Thorn, "It's All True (Escort extended remix)" (YSI link)

It's so cold out that it hurts. I just want to stay in, bundle up and listen to beautiful music. We discussed Tracey Thorn's recent album, Out Of The Woods, last week and it definitely fits the bill, I wanted to take one more look before we put it away.

Here's the first single and one of my favorite songs from the album, "It's All True." This one was produced by a dream team of sorts, Metro Area's Darshwan Jeshrani, Ewan Pearson and deep houser Sasse (Lindblad) and they don't disappoint. The original starts out with accordion-like synths and bongo-y percussion, from there a shimmering disco track unfolds. Thorn's voice floats over it all, one of her best vocal tracks on the album. The DSE dub is the work of the producers, i.e. Darshan, Sasse and Ewan, and it might exceed the original. The great bassline takes center stage on this version, which helps, and ironically, I love that they took the vocals out almost completely (they come in around halfway, reverbed and dubbed out), gives the instrumental a chance to shine. Add in the beautiful keys, extend it the song for a few more minutes and you have a winner.

The Escort extended remix is another good 0ne, as the NYC disco band keeps the vocals but funks the whole things up with some guitar and organ. This one's got a nice beat to it, which when added to the chugging guitars, means it should be ideal for a nice dancefloor. Finally, for an almost complete 180, Martin Buttrich of "Full Clip" fame does his lush techno thing here on an epic 9+ minute remix. I'm not sure if one can call this minimal, but for those who listened to that Matthew Dear mix from Fabric, the sound will be familiar. Repetitive sounds that slowly morph, deliberate, Buttrich uses the synths to give it a much warmer sound than one expects out of this genre. He uses Thorn's vocals sparingly, but it sounds great when they come in, another nice bonus you don't get with this genre a lot. Great single, should give you a good idea of where we are headed with this blog in the future.

Will Eastman! Remixes! Le Freak! Washington D.C.!

Codebreaker, "Riviera On The Moon (Will Eastman blisspop remix)" (YSI link)

Air, "Once Upon A Time (Will Eastman blisspop remix)" (YSI link)

The Hourly Radio, "Crime Does Pay (Will Eastman blisspop remix)" (YSI link)

Oh, did I mention the Pound for Pound reference on the Washington Post online site? That's right, friends, this humble blog got mentioned by one of the biggest sites in the world. Can't stop, won't stop until Tom Friedman uses me as an example of the world flattening in another of his awful columns. Get at me paper of record, the takeover has begun. Seriously though, congrats to Will Eastman on this great write-up, good to see the local press catching up to what we've been saying for a minute about this dude's talent. This is a good chance to re-up this post and the songs, don't sleep if you missed this one before.

It's been a shitty week, but I'm so super psyched to post up these remixes from DJ Will Eastman, a DJ that I hope will get much more attention and hype ASAP. For longtime readers, I'm sure that you've caught many references to Will and his various parties in Washington D.C., he's been one of the bright spots in a city not know for its raging. He got started in 1998, spinning indie, britpop, dance, disco and just about anything good at various spots. He started the Bliss monthly party at The Black Cat in September 2000 and this one's still going strong all of these years later. All of this is to say that this dude deserves far more attention than he gets; he's a talented DJ who mixes all kinds of music from the past, present and future with an eye to the dancefloor, who has been on the grind, making a scene where one might not naturally exist. Like I've said before, there's nothing that makes me happier than shining the spotlight on all of those people who hustle and make a city what iut is and hopefully help them get to a bigger audience.

I hope that these remixes above are just the ticket to get the word out, as they have been the soundtrack to my week. I'm honored to be given the exclusive first shot at his remix of Codebreaker's "Riviera On The Moon." This is like looking into a blog crystal ball and seeing two names that will be hyped from Brooklyn to Budapest, as Codebreaker is a super rad electro-funk band from Madison, Wisconsin. Eastman turns the original and makes it even more dance floor friendly with a huge bass, some vocal fuckery and driving drums. The chika-chika guitars find there place perfectly in this version, especially love how he takes everything else out and leaves the vocals over that guitar work, very nice. This is just really great stuff, sitting right on that pop/dance fence where so much of the best stuff coming out falls.

I've also upped two other remixes, the Air remix is as beautiful as you'd expect, blisspop indeed. However, it's The Hourly Radio remix that you need, an official remix for the single (Shiny Toy Radio contributed another one). Eastman's taken a really great song and turned it into something awesome, turning a indie song into a dance track with that (signature?) warm bass, hi-hats and cool 80s scratching synths.

If you lie in D.C. you really should just take a second, jot down my dude's schedule and pencil those parties into your day planner or Blackberry. His monthly Bliss party goes down again soon, February 8th, the perfect way to warm up this winter or to forget about the inexplicable fact that Obama won't put mandates on his health care plan. Even better, Will has his Friday night weekly called Le Freak at the Napoleon Lounge (1847 Columbia Rd.) in Adams Morgan going full steam ahead. If you haven't made it through, tonight's your chance to find your new weekly stop. No cover, doors at 10 pm, half-priced champagne (!!!) from 9-11, Will with special guests playing all of the music you want to hear - booty bass, disco, electro, classic house, pop, rap

For the rest of the country, check out Will's myspace page or the Bliss party one, bring him to your city. I know that he was just in Minneapolis for the Too Much Love jawn with Soviet Panda, I'd love to see some of my Pound for Pound party people and promoters and DJs help him destroy some other cities. Finally, for everyone else, download those songs, check out the Bliss website for new info and songs, be friends on said social networking site above, keep reading Pound for Pound, as we will hopefully have much more from Mr. Eastman. Yeah! Blisspop!

Juan Atkins BK, Trash NYC, Turbostation PHILA and more

I mean, seriously, the FUN guys obviously read Pound for Pound and want the nightly top spot. How else to explain them booking Juan Atkins to headline their party this week, right in the midst of our Detroit Fortnight? Well, I guess you could explain it by saying that they book these things months in advance and that they don't read some meaningless, lame blog for inspiration. You would be right with the latter, but a little mean. Is it so much to ask to pretend that I am a trendsetter? Is it? Whatever. Anyway, Juan Atkins is spinning at Studio B (259 Banker St), the Originator, Cybotron, Model 500, the man who gave the world techno. Not sure there's anything else I can do to hype this one. Atkins is joined in the main room by the Basic DJs, Sleepy and Boo, and FUN residents Eamon Harkin and Rok One. In the chandelier room, Sujinho, Complex, MSG and the Lovesound Project DJs. Hosted by the Taste Crew, Mighty Healthy, Rob Rewind, King Stampede, Good Peoples, Takeover Theory, Methods NY, Fat Cop XXL and Pauly Hustle, this one should be huge. $10 on the list, $15 at the door, doors at 10pm, 21+.

-Speaking of booking parties I want, I was just thinking how much I miss the old parties at Home Sweet Home on the weekends with Lauren Flax and Project Matt. Well, for one night only, those two are crossing the river to spin at Hugs (108 N. 6th St) and cannot recommend more highly that you check this one out before or after Studio B. Or hell, just go here and have fun at a great new spot all night long. No cover, 21+.



-Speaking of Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St), it's a big night there as the Trash party makes it return there. DJ Jess and Alex Malfunction are taking their popular weekly to the basement spot, should be a good spot for maximum debauchery. The residents are both celebrating birthdays tonight, so wish them a happy birthday before you begin said debauching. Dances With White Girls from Throne of Blood is the special guest, he will not let you or the dancefloor down. Zygo vodka open bar from 11-12, 2 for 1 well drinks from 3-4am. No cover before 11pm, $5 after, doors at 10pm.


-There's also Robot Rock at Le Royale (21 7th Ave at Leroy), where this week's special indie guest DJ is Young Love. I know that this one has become a popular party real fast, check it out to find out why. Dimitry!!!, Alex English and Marc-Alan Gray also spin, GBH and Cheeky Bastard present and you pay nothing if you RSVP to list@gbh.tv. $10 cover otherwise, doors at 10pm, 21+.



-Two great parties in Philly tonight, both highlighting the new generation of great DJs who are moving up to the bigger stages. First, the Turbostation crew are throwing their second massive bash, this time at the Trocadero (1003 Arch St). Steven Bloodbath, Shawn Ryan, Strawberry Mansion and Oh Murder Inc are Turbostation and they've invited some friends to join them - DJ Diamond Kuts from Power 99 and Emil and Bo from White Ts and White Belts. Picture all of these great DJs and two floors filled with people freaking out and dancing. Pretty great vision, right? Make sure you make a reality and make this a legendary night. Free before 11pm, $5 after, 21+.



-Also, at Fluid, the Philadelphyinz are throwing a party. I think that this is their first party at Fluid (possibly second), a nice step up from the Medusa and Khyber jawns. Skinny Friedman and Apt One are movin' on up for a reason; they're great DJs who put together an eclectic mix covering both classics and the newest of the new, disco to rap. They're bringing in Tittsworth to blow the roof off tonight with Bmore club, maximum bangers and lightning fast song mixing. Free before 11:30 on the list, click here to put your name on the list, $5 after, 21+.



-Two good ones in San Fran too. It's time for another Blow Up at the Rickshaw Stop (155 Fell), this time Skeet Skeet from LA headlines. He's joined by Denny Le Nimh from NYC's Ruff Club, definitely want to catch him, plus the Frisco Disco DJs. Hosted by Nida Elizabeth, this one looks good. $12 for 18+, $10 for 21+, doors at 9pm.



-There's also Parker Day's Stiletto party at Asia SF (210 9th St @ Howard), which mixes fashion and music. There's a runway fashion show by Improperazzi and Chelsea Starr, live performance by Hottub and DJ sets by Lights Down Low's Sleazemore, Futuristic Prince and the hard-working Chelsea Starr. Yeah, lots going on, good look people, better sounding music, good. $8 cover, 10pm-3am, 21+.



-LA



-Mute

Mad Pu$$y PHILA, Bounce PHILA, Solid Gold LA and more

It's a really big night in Philly, something for everyone. The Mad Pu$y party at Transit (6th and Spring Garden) has been big from jump street, and I have no doubt that the first appearance by Kid Sister in the City of Brotherly Love will continue that trend in a big way. The hype keeps building with her with each new single, she'll be playing in the main room and it should be b-a-n-a-n-a-s. She'll be joined by her Fool's Gold label mate DJ Nick Catchdubs, who will spin all the hits and hits to be. Plus some of the best local DJs will remind everyone what city produces the best DJs in the world, Brendan Bring'em, DJ Sega and Dirty South Joe. Go here to RSVP and get on the list, it's free on the list before 11pm, $5 until midnight, $10 after. Ciroc vodka open bar from 10-11, free PBR from 10-12, this'll be fun.

-Down in Fishtown at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave), a legend is going to be in the house, as Unruly Records' Scottie B is the special guest DJ at the Bounce monthly. Scottie is a Baltimore club legend, the man who helped create that sound that everyone and their mother seems to love. He joins the residents Emil and Bo Bliz for what should be a nasty, filthy night, which I mean in the good sense. Presented by WTHN and Exit Skateshop, it's free from 9-11 with free PBR and vodka and skate videos. $5 after 11, 21+.



-Finally, you can catch VHS Or Beta for free at the Malibu Rum Winter Beach Bash. You need to RSVP ASAP at the going.com site to get in, so do that now. My guess is that there will also be free drinks featuring a specific brand of rum, not sure why I think this. The show happens at the Electric Factory (421 N. 7th St.), doors at 9pm.

-It's always nice to hear about a new D.C. party, hate to put all of the burden on Will Eastman. Garutachi is a new one for us, but this at The Rock 'n' Roll Hotel (1353 H Street, NE) one looks damn good, as they've brought in the Sports DJ crew, i.e. Nick Hook of Men, Women and Children, Daryl Palumbo of Head Automatica and DJ Glue of Cardboard City. These guys have made a name for themselves pretty quickly here in NYC, good to see them taking the show on the road. There's also going to be live performances by Modular Records' Numero# and Figo. 2 floors, doors at 9 pm, free before 10pm, $10 after, 21+.



-I'm not a big fan of NYC on Saturday nights, with one exception. Saturday means U.N.I.T.Y. All 90s Dance Party at Hugs (108 N. 6th St) in Williamsburg with Lauren Flax and JD Samson. This one is your favorite party in waiting, all the great tunes you grew up with and used to listen to on your Walkman and/or boombox. Wanna taste of what you'll hear and what the party will look like? Then, check out their brand new U.N.I.T.Y. 90's Dance Party! blog, a new favorite. Veruca Salt's "Seether"? Yes please. Hear this and more tonight, no cover, 21+, do not sleep on this one anymore.



-Late addition: Rochester, you're the next stop on the LA Riots tour, as the boys come to Pearl (349 East Ave) to destroy your city. They're joined by Kill The Noise, Richie Salvaggio, Nuroc and Jarvis, presented by Factory Nightlife. $2 Blues and Blue Lights, $2 wells before midnight.



-Moving through the midwest quickly, there's the Daft Crunk party in Bloomington, Indiana at Jake's Nightclub. Resident Action Jackson is being joined by Cousin Cole for this one, lots of mash-ups and rap and dance tracks that would make Truman go crazy.



-Soviet Panda is back in Minneapolis from his Chicago takeover for his weekly Saturday night jam, Too Much Love. Panda and Mike 2600 will turn First Avenue (701 First Avenue N) in a northern dance paradise, $3 cover, free with college ID, 18+.



-In the Pacific Northwest, Club Pop have brought in Paris' The Teenagers to Neumos (925 E. Pike St.) to give Seattle an early taste of the buzz band. I'm psyched to catch them when they come East, one of the better young electrorock bands out there. There's also a performance by The Pharmacy, DJ sets by Club Pop's Glitterpants and the Ruff Gemz, DJ FITS and Sam Rousso Sound System. $10, 21+, doors at 8pm.



-LA, I want you to check out this Solid Gold party at LAX (1714 N. Las Palmas) tonight. Pound for Pound favorite Dimitry is in town and I feel like he will do really well out there. Check him out tonight and then bring him back for future gigs, trust me on this one. Besides our High Voltage guy, you also get to hear a legend spin, in the form of Junior Sanchez, plus Jay E and Josh Madden. RSVP to events@agendashow.com to get on the list, check the Solid Gold Events myspace page for pics of their previous parties.



-Of course, there's also the weekly Check Yo' Ponytail at The Echoplex (1154 Glendale Blvd), the IHeartComix, Viva La Rock, XLR8R jawn that brings in great bands and DJs every week for your listening/dancing/drinking pleasure. This week, you can catch another hype act, The Cool Kids, along with Hollywood Holt, Million Dollar Mano, Mic Terror and 87 Stick Up Kids. Franki Chan and Paparazzi will spin as well, should be a great night of hip-hop and dance. $15, 18+.



-

Adam Sparkles - January 2008 Mix

Adam Sparkles, January 2008 mix (YSI link) (Sendspace link) tracklisting in comments

I know a lot of mixes come my way, it can get overwhelming. It takes something special to get my attention and this new mix by Adam Sparkles is special. For those that don't know, Sparkles is a Philadelphia DJ connected to the RVNG crowd, spins mainly at the Making Time and [click.] parties with Dave P, Julian S. Process and crew. He's teamed up with Dave P to put out some phenomenal remixes for Bloc Party, Klaxons, The Whip and Holy Hail, with a Simian Mobile Disco one coming up. He bring the acid or hDude should be a much bigger name, in my opinion, and I hope that the word will spread more now.

This January 2008 Mix will melt your faces people, like an aural LSD trip or something. He eschews the current trend of spinning banger after banger from the new rave and indie dance scenes to just create a phenomenal hour plus mix that is a listening experience. It's almost shocking to see someone try to make a mix that sounds different; this one goes from spaced-out shoegazer stuff to psychedelic folk to Brazilian rock and all sorts of things in between and far out. I really love any mix where the DJ can bring me into a whole new sound world and this one does that, introducing me to a handful of bands and songs that just aren't in my normal listening diet. While he digs deep on the experimental end of rock, Adam is able to connect that to the dance and electronic end of the spectrum throughout. It reminds me of something that the Optimo cats would put together, or even Tim Sweeney, eclectic and leftfield and gutsy. I really hope that everyone will give this a listen, one of the best mixes I've heard in awhile, great listening as the weather stays cold and you stay in.

For those of you in Philly tonight, head over to The Barbary (951 Frankford) where Adam Sparkles is the special guest for the very special return of the special Broadzilla party. This one used to rock Sal's every Thursday night, it took some time off, bulked up, increased the radness, turned the amps up to 11 and voila! Another massive Philly rager at its best new space. No cover, $1 PBRs and well drinks from 10-11, this is your new favorite party again, Philly.



After tonight, you can check out a special last-minute [click.] at Fluid next Wednesday where Dave and Adam will melt your face with nitemusik. There's also a Making Time coming up, the new party at Woody's that I need to get to ASAP. I'm not even sure if the man wants to leave the confines of Philly, but get at him on myspace and try and lure him to your city. New York, Chicago, LA, Boston, Oklahoma City, Minneapolis, let this man light up your dancefloor.

Fly By Night CHI, Common Folk NYC, Clash Toronto and more

Okay, we're going to start in Chicago at Empire Liquors (1566 N. Milwaukee Ave) where it's Minneapolis' night. The Fly By Night party has brought in MPLS finest tonight, as you get the next stop on the Bird Peterson and Jonathan Ackerman tour, plus Soviet Panda from the Too Much Love party joins up to rep the home state. Peterson brings his unique Bmore/electro/breakbeat hybrid sound to town, he's done some nice releases for Flamin' Hotz and his own Solid Trunk Records. He's been getting picked up on the BBC's Radio 1, good chance to see what everyone is talking about. Ackerman might steal the show, part of the Moon Goons crew, spins all sorts of genres, I will just say that he does a Smiths party, i.e. you need to support him. Panda is a Pound for Pound favorite, who is doing Chicago up real big in the next few days. Check the flier below, a rising star who will bring the dance. Of course, there's also the excellent residents Willy Joy and Capcom, so you don't forget that you are in Chicago. RSVP at the going.com site, no cover, 21+. Doors are at 8pm, big night for the Midwest.

-The Sweatshop Labor bols are back home and getting back to business right away with their Common Folk party at Home Sweet Home. Have they become too LA? Will they talk incessantly about the script they're working on and the meetings they have? No, they won't. They will do their normal thing, play party jams and freakout music, debauch, dance, make the last day of work that much harder. They're joined by Kesh from London, who seems to be turning up everywhere in NYC lately. Free Shango Rum from 10:30-11:30, no cover, 21+



-Another cool night at 205 Club (205 Chrystie), just a few blocks north of HSH. Upstairs Nick Hook and Skinny Friedman will be spinning disco, rap and much more, while The Bangers, Mishka, King Stampede and Boundless NY will create a streetwear paradise in the basement called Things That Go Bump In The Night. Rap, classics, dance heat, this one will be packed. No cover, 21+.



-Happy 1st anniversary to the Gallery Bar (120 Orchard St) and the Art After Midnight party. The weekly Thursday party isn't doing anything special for the night, just doing the regular art and dance party steez. Tonight the art is provided by Lucas Stoffel, a pop-art exhibit called Made In Taiwan. Resident DJs Chris Alker and Sushi Steve will handle the dance party, helped out by guest DJ 5' 5". Expect lots of dance remixes, indie, some hip-hop and a good crowd. No cover, 21+.

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-Finally, for those looking for a little more techno in their night, Even Further is here to help. Down in the basement of Happy Ending (302 Broome St), Carmine P. Filthy, Darya Zhuk, Cowboy Mark and Rudy M will bring it dark and heavy, but with soul. No cover, 21+.




-Here's a rad event in LA happening at the UCLA Broad Art Center. NYC dance punkers HEARTSREVOLUTION play live tonight. IHeartsComix label boss and globe-trotting DJ Franki Chan will spin, along with RC Versace and DJ Houser. This one starts early at 7 pm, so head out soonish to make it on time. A great night of electrorock and dance music, possibly a chance to relive your glorious college days and/or have your heartbroken when beautiful women look at you like the old man you are. More info here.



-Finally, up in Toronto at the Tattoo Rock Parlour (567 Queen Street West), the LA Riots tour kicks off with a bang. The boys are headlining, while Milkcrate's Aaron Lacrate spins, along with Nasty Nav and Shit La Merde. I can't find any price info on this one, but I would guess it'll be in the $10-20 range. worth the bucks to catch one of the best new groups and show some support.

Grizzly Bear - Friends EP

Grizzly Bear, "Little Brother (electric)" (YSI link)

Grizzly Bear, "Knife (covered by CSS)" (YSI link)

Here's something a little different than our normal fare, the psychedelic folk music of Grizzly Bear. However, when you check out the mix that's coming up next, this one'll make a lot more sense. Anyway, I actually reviewed and liked their debut LP, Yellow House, so when I saw that they were releasing an EP of remixes and B-sides called Friends, my heart when a-flutter, as I love a good remix album.While it isn't quite what I thought it was going to be, as these aren't remixes in the dance music sense, the path they chose is probably better for everyone. Most of the EP is the band reworking their own songs or doing covers, along with 3 covers of Grizzly Bear songs by their friends - CSS, Band Of Horses and Atlas Sound.

For me, it's the first half of the album, the reworking of their originals, that makes this one worth the money. Honestly, the first three songs are a tremendous peak that they don't equal again on the record, although all of the Grizzly Bear stuff is worth a listen. The thing that struck me most was how much I liked the vocals, something that is really important to me when I listen to rock music and that seems to be lacking on a lot of this experimental folk stuff imo. Their cover of the The Crystals/Phil Spector classic "He Hit Me (And It Felt Like A Kiss)" shows this best, with a tender, almost fragile voice leading the way. "Little Brother" goes electric here and it's a doozy, with similar scratchy falsetto vocals to draw me in. From there, the tracks ebbs and flows, until the final blowout in the last minute and a half. Check for the great guitars on this one, love that sound. Check out this nice review at Pitchfork by Ryan Schreiber, which gives a nice recap of how these songs are different than the originals.

I included the CSS cover of "Knife," to give you a sense of how one of the band's songs was covered. CSS has turned the song into a cool and relaxed electro rock number, not bad, not amazing. Band of Horses do a kinda bizarre, kinda awful bluegrass-y version of "Plans," while Atlas Sound has much more of the space-y, reverbed sound that seems more in line with GB's music and probably works best.

I definitely recommend picking this one up, feel like it might be a touch more accessible than the LP. Grizzly Bear definitely seem to be doing interesting things, taking chances and just generally not acting like every other indie rock band out there.

Tracey Thorn - Out Of The Woods

Tracey Thorn, "Here It Comes Again" (YSI link)

Tracey Thorn, "Get Around To It" (YSI link)

I'm working on my resume and cover letter right now, burning the midnight oil. What is it about listening to music late at night? No matter how much I tell myself to avoid the sad stuff, it just comes on. Does anyone else have this instinct? It's like the night and moon and silence conspire against you and you find yourself joining them in the darkness and eeriness. Tonight, I found myself pulling out Tracey Thorn's Out Of The Woods and just giving in to her gorgeous, heartbreaking voice and not fighting the sadness for the night. I guess I should be thankful I haven't clicked on The Queen Is Dead.

Tracey Thorn is a name that may not jump out at you right away, since she is best known as being one-half of Everything But The Girl with her partner Ben Watt. In 1982, before EBTG got rolling, she released one solo album called A Distant Shore. After that, she would do nothing under her own name until March 2007, when she released her second LP, Out Of The Woods. I'm sorry I didn't get to this one sooner, but am glad that I brought it back out for a listen as I come up with the best of the year list.

It's a very good album, Thorn's voice is stunning, the lyrics have a sadness to them, the production trades in house and disco and pop, a not-too-common combination of the club and the bedroom listening. Think of it as torch songs for the club or melancholic disco. Anyone who has loved stuff like Annie and Robyn or the great electronic acts like Portishead should find something to their liking. The album is 11 songs, alternating between downtempo, near-ballads and more upbeat, club-friendly tracks. The front and back ends are excellent, the middle songs bog down a little for me with too much sameness and too

Opener "Here It Comes Again" is stunning, my favorite track on the album. You know I'm a sucker for a beautiful, heartbreaking sad song and this is as good as it gets. In fact, it's the least electronic song on the album, with strings, twinkling bells, horns and Thorn's voice transfixing you for the entire 3 minutes. I want this playing song playing in the film about my life, post-MC break-up, sitting on a bench in Rittenhouse Square, watching little kids run around and play and be merry. "Get Around To It" might seem familiar to you, as it's a cover of an Arthur Russell song. Covering an Arthur Russell song, a Pound for Pound hero, is risky, like stuffing your bra. It ends up working quite nicely, heading back to Russell's day for a nice disco-vibe with cowbell, funky bassline and some synth smears.

Pick up a copy of this LP, as it's an excellent release and has made it onto many of the dance magazines' best of the year lists. Word is that Thorn and Pearson have begun collaborating on the follow-up already, which should be a good look for 2008.

In Flagranti NYC, The Zoo PHILA, Moscow LA and more

Wow, lots going on tonight, let's start in downtown NYC and move around from there. I've been saying for minute now that Tuesday and Wednesdays are the nights to head out downtown. Tonight's line-up validates that big-time, three great parties all below Houston. First up, you know I love the basement a 205, you know I love In Flagranti. Bring those together and I feel happy. The Brooklyn duo will spin deep disco, funk and punky-electro downstairs, highly highly recommended. Upstairs of course, the Taste Crew will do their thing, DJ Equal, Joey and Lamazing giving you a party that you can either get crazy at or just chill with friends. 205 Wednesdays are becoming as essential as Tuesdays. No cover, 21+, doors at 11pm.

-I would have lead off with this one, but I didn't want to do that two weeks in a row as people would think I had a crush on Dimitry. I don't, for the record, although he is a handsome man. The Throne of Blood label, the Rapture and James Friedman's jawn, is coming to High Voltage for what looks like the best line-up I've seen at this party. Dances With White Girls, Andy Pry and Druzzi of that band called The Rapture will spin along with Dimitry and Prince Terrence. I mean, that's real serious people. I'm expecting classic hip-hop, actual house music, disco, maybe some booty stuff. I'm expecting a huge crowd filling The Annex (152 Orchard) I'm expecting people getting drunk off of the open Zygo bar, which starts at 11 and goes until its gone. I expect you to be there. Do not miss this one, one of the best labels around, one of the best weeklies, essential stop.



-My final recommendation is the Moonwalk party at Happy Ending (302 Broome St). This one is gonna take off in the next few months, just a hunch. Rezound and Cousin Cole have put together a nice, relaxed biweekly party which always gets a good, dancing crowd. Tonight, the guys are joined by Snack and C'Mish of Turnable Lab fame for an all-vinyl night. Yes, you read that right, people DJing with actual records. It's like seeing a pay phone! Anyway, should be another great night here, make it a stop night, hang out, chill, listen to some good tunes. No cover, 21+.



-Down in Philly, here's a newish party at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) called The Zoo that is definitely worth your time. I've been mentioning this next wave of DJs coming up in the city and here's an excellent chance to see some of those rising stars. DJs Scotty Ack, Diamond Girl and Flo will spin music that will hopefully make you dance, new electro stuff, indie dance, various other genres will figure in the mix. $1 drinks until 11, no cover, 21+, meet the new bosses.



-Yeah! Robotic Wednesdays! Always good to have the Dance Robots, Dance crew in a post, even better when they are bringing in some of our other favorites to the Electro Lounge (5929 N. May Ave), in this case Jonathan Ackerman and Bird Peterson from Minneapolis. Those dudes will fit right in at this dance music rager, their first stop on a mini-Midwestern tour. This isn't just a dance party, it's also a celebration of the 1 year anniversary of Sophie Zine, a Stillwater OK blog dedicated to music, art, technology and other stuff. Hosted by Sophie Zine and Heidi Cannon, should be a rad night. $3 cover, 21+.



-In the LA area, we've got a new party called Avenue, a Wednesday night weekly at 3737 Main St. in Riverside. More importantly, it's the first live performance by Lazr Tag, an electro project featuring Luvtek and StellarDrv. Plus there's DJ sets by Hyphy Crunk, Jimmy Boy, Billy Noorlag and Rec 1 & Big Milk, the release of Hyphy Crunk's new t-shirt, giveaways by American Apparel and Moola and lots of drink specials. Women are free before 10:30, message their myspace page to get on the $5 reduced list, I assume $10 otherwise.



-Finally, in LA, head to Boardner's (1652 N. Cherokee Ave) to say goodbye for a bit to LA Riots, who are about to embark on their first national tour. We'll have more on this obviously, but LA people need to wipe the tears away and hit up the Club Moscow party. The LA Riot boys will play live and will be giving out free copies of the new mix they did from Scion. The boys are all grown up, now. Residents Raulie, Paul, Dia, Jeremy and Keith will spin indie, indie dance, punk, rawk all night too. 18+, free before 10:30 with a flier, $10 for 18-20 yo, free for 21+.

Afrika Bambaataa New Weekly NYC, Holiday NYC and more

It's a special night in NYC, legends everywhere. First up, the legendary DJ Afrika Bambaataa is beginning a weekly party in basement of APT (419 W. 13th St.) I mean, this is a pretty big deal, people. Bambaataa was a key figure in the development of hip-hop and electro, his DJ sets are as legendary as they are rare. This should be an amazing night of music and a chance to connect to NYC's past glory in one of its best spaces today. Bambaataa will be joined every week by his fellow resident DJs, Eamon Harkin of the FUN party and Lindsay of Negroclash, two of the best DJs in the city now who deserve a bigger platform. This is the start of something good. Doors at 10pm, down in the basement, $10 cover, 21+.

-Speaking of legends spinning in the basements of my favorite spots, the suddenly ubiquitous Moby is the special guest tonight at the best party in NYC, 205 Tuesdays, at 205 Club (205 Chrystie) The disco-heavy party will get a nice dose of acid I hope tonight, you already know how highly I recommend this one. Tonight will be extra crowded, just wait it out, stay late and you will be rewarded. Residents Justin Miller and Jacques Renault will do their thing, no cover, doors at 11pm, 21+. PS I have total jealous boots over Moby's glasses, as I'm in the market now. If any fashionable girl would like to give me an opinion on the pair I decide on, please contact me.



-You should also check out the Holiday Winter Social at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St), where the booze and music will help you forget that it's winter out there. DJs Fitforuse, Finger On The Pulse, Chris Alker and Sushi Steve will take care of the tunes, expect lots of indie dance, some soul and r&b, some surprises; Bushmill's will take care of the booze with complimentary Bushmill's from 10:30-11:30. Wanna partake in this winter social? RSVP ASAP to music@fotpnyc.com or reply yes at the going.com site. No cover, 21+, doors at 10pm.



-Don't worry if you can't make it out of Brooklyn, as the Do It weekly party at Hugs (108 N. 6th St btwn Berry and Whythe) goes down tonight. A DJ battle between Cheeky Bastard's Alex English and Shinratek also goes down, with resident DJ Carrie Whitenoise as the tie-breaker. Or something like that. No cover, 21+.



-In San Francisco, the biweekly ExcusesExcuses party returns to Pink (2925 16th St) after a month off. DJs Rchrd Oh?! and Miss Toats will take care of your musical needs with a nice dose of electro, pop and electro-pop all night. $3 cover, doors at 10 pm, 21+.




-Finally, the big getting bigger dANCE party in LA takes over Arena (6655 Santa Monica Blvd) as it does every Tuesday. This one's on some pure shit, as resident DJs Paparazzi, Bip Jeffington and Joaquin will spin all night for your pleasure. Expect indie dance and electro rock and a big, fun, young crowd. $5 before 10:30 with a flier, 2 for 1 drinks upstairs until 11, doors at 9 pm, 18+.

Matthew Dear Live Mixes October 2006

Matthew Dear, Live at Fabric (London) 7th Anniversary party October 21, 2006 (YSI link) (Sendspace link)

Matthew Dear and Ryan Elliot, Live at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) opening October 26, 2006 (YSI link) (Sendspace link)

There's been a change of plans. I think we may have to call this Michigan week, since Matthew Dear and the Ghostly International label call Ann Arbor home. I had a map of the state drawn for me on a napkin recently and so I'm positive these two aren't the same place. Plus, the whole week thing is kinda out of the water, since it's been like 10 days since I started looking at the the city's music. Since these posts were dedicated to JH-B and she isn't from Detroit proper, this makes it work a little better. Let's just call it a Detroit Fortnight and be done with it, semantics be damned!

Honestly though, I see Dear and crew has a part of Detroit's music history. It's hard to not think that Ghostly has picked up the Detroit techno ball the past 5 years and run it down the field. Dear, in particular, has been a one-man wrecking crew, dropping two new albums in 2007 under two aliases (Matthew Dear's Asa Breed & False's 2007), while his third one, Audion, killed it on the remix front. The man is also a pretty damn good DJ, someone who is able to walk the line between minimal techno and dancefloor accessibility.

Above are two live mixes, one from Dear (more than likely under the guise of Audion) and the other from Dear and fellow Ghostly Internationalist Ryan Elliott. Both come from October 2006. The solo Dear one comes from the 7th Anniversary party at legendary megaclub Fabric in London, a pretty good sign that the dude has made it big. The second one might be even cooler, as it was recorded at the opening night for the Musuem of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD). I know that MOCAD was a huge bright spot for the city in the midst of a lot of darkness, nice to see local stars kick things off.

These two mixes are great intros into Dear's different sounds. The MOCAD mix is the more accessible of the two, a funky house and techno mix, with some vocals tracks. It doesn't have the pop sensibility of his recent album by any means, but there's lots of rhythm, big basslines and jackin' drums to get you moving. The Fabric mix is a different story, an exploration of minimal techno. This means 90 minutes of bleeps and shuffles that slowly unfold; there's no big hooks or vocals or crazy synth freakouts. Don't be scurred, though. There's definitely a pulse to this that will keep you moving, Dear is not a minimal purist by any means. This may sound like one boring song, but give it a chance. Those little bleeps morph and move, my ears took two listens to adjust to the different sense of time. I hope that you will give it a chance, I think you may be surprised.

DJ Godfather & Big Daddy Rick - Players Club Vol. 1

DJ Godfather & Big Daddy Rick, "Ride It, Shake It" (YSI link)

DJ Godfather & Big Daddy Rick, "Fuck Bitch" (YSI link)

DJ Godfather & Big Daddy Rick, "Hoe Bend Over" (YSI link)

Let's start the week off with a bang, a ghettotech bang. This is Pound for Pound's Detroit right here, the sound that has always been important here. Databass Records, a sublabel of Twilight 76, is one of the main labels that brought this music out of Detroit out to the rest of the world. Here's one of the earliest releases, DJ Godfather & Big Daddy Rick's Players Club Vol. 1, dropped in 1997. I think you will immediately recognize that the sound hadn't really solidified yet into that relentless, snares and bass thing yet.

Opener "Ride It, Shake It" has an almost Miami bass feel to it, with the hissy cymbals and melodic bassline. "Fuck Bitch" is my favorite and probably the most prototypically ghettotech, a minimal banger with an 808 and clipped vocals ("Fuck," "Bitch," "Whatever") repeated throughout. The drums are more minimal and much cleaner, this one works better for me. Finally, "Hoe Bend Over" is the busiest of them, it has an almost static-y white noise in the bacground, these bubbling effects and a lot less low-end. The vocals don't really seem to work with the song either; at it's best the vocals are another instrument that goes perfectly with the flow. I don't feel like that's the case here.

But, let's face it. Like sex and pizza, even bad ghettotech is still pretty damn good.

Hi-Tops and Hearts BK, Rowdy NYC, Shakedown PHILA, Art Space Invasion CHI and more

Sadly, I have to lead off with what looks to be the final Hi Tops and Hearts at Royal Oak (594 Union Ave @ N.11th) DJ Tiny Pants has been doing this one for awhile now, nothing crazy, just one of those great dance parties at a smaller space where the focus is on having fun, dancing and not being too cool for school. It'll be missed in a city that has too many parties that don't value those things. Tonight, it'll just be Tiny Pants and, hopefully, many of you; send it off in style people! Hopefully this one will find a home somewhere else, will keep you updated. As always sponsored by the excellent fashion designers/label Love Brigade, dance music from all genres. No cover, 21+, drink specials galore.

-As one party ends, a new one comes into the world. It's the circle of life people, the circle of life. I'm psyched for this one, as it's good to see Nick Hook of Men, Women and Children and the Sports DJ crew doing his own party. He's putting on the Get Right! party with DJ Josh Link of Cardboard City, they'll be spinning jams from all over the spectrum, expect the unexpected. You know that I love Hugs (108 N. 6th St), great spot that everyone should be supporting in Williamsburg. This one is the first night, a chance to work out the kinks and get ready for next month's official hotness. No cover, 21+.




-Of course, Studio B keeps raising the bar. Tonight, the Verboten party takes over and they've brought in London's Radioclit to blow the doors of your mind off. Not sure when's the last time these guys have been in NYC, but I'm pretty sure it's not often. I.e. don't sleep on this one. You also get to check out Canada's other electro-punk remixers extraordinaire, VNDLSM, you'll need to come up for breath at some point during these two. There's also Alexander Technique from DJs Are Not Rockstars, Van Scott and a live performance by I Love You Airlines in the main room, Robot Blair and DJ Shaka23 in the side room. Hosted by Finger On The Pulse, Sophia Lamar and June D, this is a pretty packed night. To get on the $10 reduced guestlist, email rsvp.flawless@mac.com ASAP.



-Tonight may be the night that the bass ate Manhattan. The Kids Are Bored are gonna try to make that happen with their party tonight in the "bass"ment of The Tank (279 Church St btwn Franklin and White) In order to accomplish this, they've made a great choice and brought in from Philadelphia, dev79 and Starkey of Seclusiasis, who are no strangers to the heavy bass music. Add in Secret Agent Gel from Dub Wars and Sharmaji from Low Motion and your body should be rattled. WARNING: the party starts at 9pm and goes til 1am, so don't dilly-dally. $5, 21+.



-Philly, if you want deep, deep bass, head to The Barbary as the Shakedown has returned in its new home. There's not much to say about this legendary party, it's been going strong for years, one of the best deep house music parties anywhere. Resident DJs Rob Paine and Willyum have been spinning the best in house, dub, dub house and reggae, well ahead of the curve on all of the genres. If you haven't checked this party out before, this is a great chance to get into it at the best new spot with a great soundsystem. $3 Guinesses, $1 PBRs and $2 well drinks from 10-11, $5 cover, 21+. The Shakedown returns!



-This looks like a super rad party in Chicago, the Art Space Invasion Vol. 1. As the fliers says, "Join us as we take over a 5000sqft of artspace and turn it into an art collaborative/dance party." I mean, you know we love this kind of stuff, raw spaces, local artists, people coming together, dance party. Yeah! Some great Chicago DJs will be there - Trancid, Zebo, Dani Deahl, Hillary Rawk and All The Way Kay - spinning electro, house, pop, Bmore club and I'm sure some other goodies. There's also going to be live art by local artists, plus free vodka and beer until supplies run out. Sounds great, right? You need to RSVP right now to get in, send an email to RSVP@MizzChicago.com. $10 advance tickets, $12 before midnight, $15 after. There's limited space, so do yourself a favor, get there early, like around 10 pm to make sure you get in and have a blast at this rad party. P.S. You need to RSVP to that email to find out the address, don't want to blow up their spot.



-If you are in San Francisco, shut the computer down and head to the Beauty Bar (19th and Mission) for the Bad Habits happy hour party. DJ Rchrd Oh!? of Big Stereo and Lights Down Low will spin while you get drunk early in the night and beat the weekend warriors to the punch. Hosted by Le Dinosaur, this is a nice, fun , chill way to start the night.



-Then take your drunk ass over to the Frisco Disco at The Transfer (198 Church St), where you will fit right in with all of the other drunk, crazy people. Richie Panic and Vin Sol will take care of the rest, providing the right music to make a roomful of drunk, crazy people do debauched things.



-Finally, in LA, it's a Big Saturday. Literally. That's the name of the party tonight at the Temporary Spaces (5100 Fountain Way @ Normandie), a multi-person birthday party. Mid City West, Dirty Dave, Sean Patrick and Chris Holmes are the DJs, nice raw space, 2 for 1 vodka drinks from 10-11. This is guest list only, so you need to RSVP ASAP to bigsaturday@ideamusic.com to get in. You'll also wanna show up early, limited space.



-You can never go wrong with the Check Yo Ponytail party at The Echo (1822 Sunset Blvd) As always, IHeartComix, Viva La Rock and XLR8R Magazine have put together a huge bill. Tonight you get live performace by Men, which features JD Samson and Joanna Fatemen of Le Tigre, NYC electrorockers Anamanaguchi and LA indie rockers Moonrats, plus DJ sets by the Acid Girls, Abe Vigoda and residents Franki Chan and Paparazzi. Whew, deep breath. $10 advance, 21+.

Detroit Grand Pubahs - Sandwiches

Pastrami and rye! We can make sandwiches!

Detroit Grand Pubahs, "Sandwiches (original 12" mix)" (YSI link)

Detroit Grand Pubahs, "Sandwiches (Krafty Kuts mix)" (YSI link)

Detroit Grand Pubahs, "Sandwiches (Bloated "Quarter Pounder" mix)" (YSI link)

Detroit Grand Pubahs, "Sandwiches (Bloated "Evil Bread" dub)"

Time for some late-night posting, can't think of a better time of night to put up Detroit Grand Pubah's "Sandwiches," to be honest. I feel like this bootyesque song should be playing at some strip club right now, albeit a very strange one, where, I'm picturing, the strippers and the pervy guys are all on mushrooms. Not totally why I'm imagining that, guess it's the helium vocals that give me a tripped out sense. I started listening to this one again recently, after hearing it on the Claude VonStroke Essential Mix, and it's been on straight repeat for days. It's proof that it ain't all lush techno in Detroit; this here picks up the booty house sound with a jackin' beat and less punishing sound than the ghettotech one. It's one of those wonderfully simple songs that finds a place somewhere in your brain cortex and never leaves.

The remixes don't really come close to the original 12" mix, but they're nice additions. The Krafty Kuts mix is my favorite, as it adds some delayed synths and a more breakbeat feel which picks the pace up. I couldn't find much info about the artist called Bloated, as he or she only had a few remixes in 1999 and 2000. It's a shame, as s/he comes with two original takes that veer quite far from the original. The "Quarter Pounder" mix turns into an electro-funk take, with this little guitar lick giving it a little 70s funk porno funk vibe. The rubbery bass and shuffling drums never let up, making this a nice extended version. The "Evil Bread" does feature some delay stuff and vocal trickery, but it's got a pretty 4/4 beat preventing from being the dub you might expect.

P.S. Who wants to come with me to the new Second Ave. Deli or Ben's next week? We can talk about disco and bass and housing issues and the awesome Celebrity Rehab show on VH-1! Yeah! It'll be fun.

Hi-Tek Soul NYC, Robot Rock NYC, Robotique PHILA and more

I'm gonna try to do a better job this year of referencing bigger parties and DJs, especially in NYC. I'd love to see more connections between the new indie dance music scene and the older one, which has laid the foundation for everything we have now. It seems like the Hi-Tek Soul party wanted to make it easy for me, as they've brought in Detroit techno legend Derrick May for their party at Pacha (618 W. 46th St) the very week we have turned our lonely eyes to that city. My dear roomate recently attended the 2 year anniversary party at the club and told me that it is an unbelievable space. It should be just as good tonight, hearing the lush synths and thumping beats on one of the great soundsystems. Joining May is the Basic NYC crew; Sleepy and Boo will open in the main room, Anthony Parasole, KYU and Jay Stomp will hold down the basement. RSVP to djboo@basicnyc.com or at the going.com site for free admission before midnight, $20 otherwise. Doors at 10pm, party goes until 6am, this is a dance music.

-The Robot Rock party has been going for more than a few weeks at Le Royale (21 7th Ave South @ Leroy), they've established a formula of guest DJs from various bands. They are changing things up tonight and not surprisingly this looks like the best one. GBH and Cheeky Bastard have brought in Toronto band Holy Fuck, a great band playing live electronic music, loud, glitchy, rocking, excellent. The resident DJs - Dimitry, Alex English and Marc-Alan Grey - are also in the house to guarantee a dance party after the mayhem. RSVP to list@gbh.tv for free admission, $10 otherwise, 21+.



-Down in the LES, the Lewd party is an oasis amongst the crowds and douchebags. rekLES and Sean MF'N Roberts do the monthly Unstoppable Perfect party at Happy Ending (see yesterday's post), but this is the OG one at The Skinny (174 Orchard St). Expect lewd, filthy music that would make Pound for Pound proud. No cover, $3 well drinks from 11-12, late night specials, 21+.



-Back in Brooklyn, it's Friday night which equals FUN, i.e. the weekly FUN party at Studio B (259 Banker St) Tonight, the party serves as the final stop on the Kleavage tour with DJ Klever and Tittsworth. They've been all around the country, slaying dancefloors with party jams and crazy mixing. You also get sets from Roxy Cottontail and DJ Ayres of The Rub and residents Eamon Harkin and Rok One. Make sure to check out the side room where Moonwalk presents the record release party for Cousin Cole and Pocketknife's Tambourine Dream CD. Cole and Pocketknife, Caps and Jones and Rezound will be spinning in the smaller space, highly recommended. Presented by Good Peoples, hosted by Mishka, Worship Worthy, Taste Crew and Frank 151, doors at 10 pm. $10 before midnight, $15 after, 21+, 2 for 1 drinks from 2-3am.



-Not far away, you get your chance to check out a rock star DJ as Ira from CSS joins the Finger On The Pulse guys for their Royal Oak (594 Union Ave) party.



-Down in Philly, another great night looms. First up, the Robotique party makes its first appearance in 2008, taking over Medusa's (21st and Chestnut) for a night of discofunk, disco and funk. Mike Tee and Billy W. are excellent DJs, Medusa's has just been renovated, the carpet is gone, the bathrooms are clean, the soundsystem has been upgraded. No cover, 21+.



-Down in Fishtown, Turnaround vs Immediate! is back again at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) The soul and rock party has brought in an interesting guest DJ tonight - Jayson Musson from Plastic Little. I really love the idea of Jayson spinning some NWA for the rock kids. Show up to find out what he plays and to dance at one of the most popular parties in the city.



-On the other side of the country, it's Mute Friday in Santa Ana. The weekly indiedancejawn at The Proof Bar (215 N. Broadway) is sticking to its roots tonight, as the residents - DJ Legit, DJ Ben N. and Rockberry will spin all night. Expect lots of brand spankin' new dance rock and remixes. Doors at 9pm, no cover, 21+.



-Finally, two big LA parties are going head to head tonight at Safari Sam's (5214 Sunset Blvd) It's Moscow vs DANCE, mano y mano, or manos y manos I guess. DJs Paparazzi and Young Sunn of the Tuesday night DANCE party vs. Keith 2.0 and DJ (N) from Moscow, winner take all. Free before 11 with a flier, $5 after, 18+. For the record, there's also supposed to be a special guest DJ making his first LA appearance, I do not know who it is, but I thought that I would build some dramatic tension.

Yr Mangled Heart & Washing Up Tiga Remixes

Gossip, "Yr Mangled Heart (Tiga's Congabreak)" (YSI link) 320

Tomas Andersson, "Washing Up (Tiga remix)" (YSI link) 320

We're gonna head to Detroit later tonight, but first I wanted to make a quick stop at Planet Sexor. I haven't heard much from Tiga in the last year, always psyched to see the Montreal man come back with a remix. I was especially psyched to see him getting on the Gossip remix train, as that's been one of the most fruitful exchanges in a long time. While Tiga's Congabreak remix didn't blow me away at first listen, it has grown on me. He gives Beth Ditto lots of room to work with, as you get the vocals in full which works well here. You almost get lulled to sleep with the simple drums and low temperature, but then, around the 2 minute mark, there's a breakdown. A jagged, rumbling bass comes in, then the congos go off. However, this is all prelude to some serious synth craziness in the second half of the record, a huge, trance-y sound that

I've also included the only other thing that came out this year featuring Mr. Sontag, Tomas Andersson's "Washing Up." Ok, ok, this one was originally released in 2005, but got reissued this year as a 12" and featured on a few compilations as well. One listen and you will recognize it from many nights out. It's absolutely classic, from the techno beat to the little acid-y melody to the sick breakdown. I miss this nastier Tiga.

No Comprehendo Disco NYC, Yuppy Vs Hippy NYC, Crescendolls PHILA, Heist LA and more

Okay, I am going to be brief tonight. Go to 205 Club (205 Chrystie) tonight and let disco save your life. More specifically, go to the basement and let Prince Language and Lee Douglas save your life. The No Comprendo Disco party is back and I am ecstatic. One of the best parties in the city, this one is perfect for the dark, intimate space, expect lots of classic disco, funk, edits galore, the stuff that I want to hear most right now. No cover, 21+, don't miss this one.

-You'll also want to head to the Slipper Room (167 Orchard St) for the Hippy vs Yuppie Debate. Like the tastes great vs less filling battle of the 80s, this one divides our city like no other; tonight Max Silvestri argues for the hippies, Lang Fisher for the yuppies and hopefully a winner will be determined. I'm rooting for the hippies, as everyone hates yuppies and wants them to move to the fucking suburbs already, drive their cars to their law firms and stop ruining the LES. DJ Never Forget from Finger On The Pulse will provide the soundtrack to this one, hopefully he will spin the "Dark Star" from Live/Dead and melt everyone's brain pans. The good folks at Vice are putting this one on, you need to go and RSVP right now to get in. Doors at 8, debate at 9:30, goes until midnight at which time you need to hit up 205 and Happy Ending, filled with Dewar's and joined by new hippie and yuppie friends.



-Such a great night in the LES, as it usually is when the Unstoppable Perfect party takes over Happy Ending (302 Broome St). You know about this, I blather about it once a month. rekLES and Sean MF'N Roberts spin the best in dance and new wave and indie, always a good crowd, dancing, fun. Hosted by Julius O. and Antwan of Ithinkyoureswell.com, this is a must-stop this night. 2 open bars as well, 21+, 10pm-4am.



-If you stay in Brooklyn, head to Hugs (108 N. 6th St) for Hug It Out with Cobra Kai and The Bangers. I was gonna say that Rok One, Krames and Jaclyn are the up and coming DJs here, but I think that they have done up and come. Hugs



-Down in Philly, the Crescendolls party is back on some Darth Vader shit. What does that mean? I don't know, I just saw the flier and stream of conscioused it. I do know that it's always good to have JHN RDN, Ian St. Laurent and Gregg Foreman together in the same room, especially when that room is The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) Expect lots of filthy electro and sweaty soul. No cover, $1 PBRs and well drinks from 10-11.



-Steven Bloodbath's weekly Thursday night party Mo Money No Problems at Silk City (425 Spring Garden) is your other top choice, it's gonna feel like 2003 in there as Low Budget is back at Silk City! The Hollertronix king and MIA tour DJ is back home, so expect a bonkers party with one of the best DJs in the world at a great spot. What else do you want?



-Or if you are in Center City, stop by the Seclusias weekly party at Sal's (200 S. 12th St) where resident DJ Ghost is being joined by DJ Boggle from San Fran's Symbiosis and Seclusiasis star Starkey for a night of the heavy bass music. No cover, doors at 9, $2 domestic beers and $3 mixed drinks until 11pm.



-Finally,

Simian Mobile Disco - Hustler Remxes

Simian Mobile Disco, "Hustler (Kevin Saunderson remix)" (YSI link)

Simian Mobile Disco, "Hustler (Jesse Rose remix)" (YSI link)

Simian Mobile Disco, "Hustler (Shackleton remix)" (YSI link)

I'm still working on the end of the year stuff, but in the meantime I'm gonna put up some things that I had wanted to get to at the end of last year. It was a big year for Simian Mobile Disco, as they dropped their first album, Attack Sustain Delay Release, to critical acclaim and toured the world. Ironically, one of their first singles, "Hustler," which dropped all the way back in the year 2006, continues to thrill and get the remix treatment.

The most recent batch of remixes fit in perfectly with some of our recent foci here at Pound for Pound - techno, dubstep and fidget house. With the focus this week on Detroit, we've got a lead off with that Kevin Saunderson remix. I mean, Kevin Saunderson, people! Belleville 3! Dude does not disappoint here, dropping a sick, filtered techno remix that turns the original a little darker and more menacing. Those insistent kick drums start things off, taking center stage while a acid-y bassline works its way around the beat. The pace picks up, the drums get a little more jackin' until some vocal snippets and video-game synths come in around the halfway mark. My favorite part, though, comes around the four minute mark when the kick drums drop out for a bit, leaving only these filtered, wobbling synths and hi-hats. Wait for it, here comes the kick drums again and away we go on a similar, but off-kilter vibe to the first-half.

Shackleton brings the delays out to full effect, creating a molasses version. It almost seems like you are hearing it underwater, especially when those massives horn like sounds come in every so often, I almost expect to see a tugboat coming down Kent Avenue. The Jesse Rose remix might be the pick of the lot, keeping more of the sound of the original, but turning up the dirty and nasty with a fuzzed bassline and jackin' house beats. This one should destroy dancefloors.

If you haven't already copped the SMD LP, you really should do so now. It's been making the top lists for all of the major dance magazines, definitely an album you need to own.

High Voltage NYC,

Okay, we're gonna get back into the party game, that NYE post wiped me out for the past week, no joke. I can't think of a better party to start with than High Voltage here in NYC, one of, if the, first parties we ever mentioned at this humble site. Dimitry really made this something special in its first year, moving to bigger and better venues every few months, settling in now at The Annex (152 Orchard St). Things are starting right where they left off this year, as Alexander Technique of DJs Are Not Rockstars is the special guest tonight, joining residents Dimitry!!! and Prince Terrence for a night of wall-to-wall people and danceable music. Hosted by Jason Hates You, the Zygo vodka open bar still starts at 11, ends when its gone and destroys your ability to make wise decisions. 2008, I expect even bigger things from High Voltage, get on board now. Yeah!

-The other essential Wednesday night stop is the Taste Crew's Wednesday party at 205 Club (205 Chrystie). Tonight, the upstairs hosts Free The Robots, as Roam and Urth play a live set for everyone. Their music has all sorts of elements, from psychedelia to breakbeats, well worth a listen. Resident DJ Equal will be on hand to spin all night. Downstairs, the Brooklyn Bounce party makes its way into the city, DJs Dhundee and Stimulus will bring a similar sound of broken beat, downtempo and hip-hop to the lower level. RSVP to 205@thetastecrew.com to get on the list for the night.



-Down in Philly, the Turbostation crew is getting revved up for their big party at the Troc next week with the Kiss 'n' Fly party tonight at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) Oh! Murder Inc, Strawberry Mansion and DARKLORD will spin from every genre of music alive, from the unremembered 80s to the newest remixes. This will be a dance party, so bring your A game. No cover, 21+, 10pm to 2am. Now, if they would just return my g-ddamn emails...



-Ahhh, it's Robotic Wednesday! A late addition, this party in Oklahoma City at the Electro Lounge (5929 N. May Ave) quickly became a favorite, always love any laid-back weekly night where good DJs and friends and fans can come and hang out and dance and have a guaranteed fun time once a week. Tonight is Caroline's Birthday; Pound for Pound does not know Caroline, but any friend of DRD is a friend of P4P and more importantly she is pictured with a cat in the flier and any friend of cats is a friend of P4P.



-Finally, out in LA, Anne Lee and Shadowscene take you to Awesometown, where you can celebrate Dirty Dave's birthday. Dave will be spinning tonight, good to see his name, haven't seen it in a minute; Cosmic Kids and Action Jackson will also be on the decks for what should be a wild and crazy time at The Short Stop (1455 W. Sunset Blvd) $3 Dewars all night could spell trouble, photos by Shadowscene will document said trouble. No cover, 21+, doors at 10pm.



-Finally, super excited by this week's Busy Work at Detroit Bar (843 W. 19th St) in Costa Mesa, as Pound for Pound favorites Sweatshop Labor invade LA for the first time. We'll do a more specific post about their trip tomorrow (I hope), but in the meantime, here's your first chance to check Johnsville and Lucas Walters out. June D is also in from NYC, joining with LA's Dan Sena, Clifford Lidell, GMO and The Living Suns. RSVP to busywork@detroitbar.com and get in free before 10, $5 after 10 pm.

Model 500 - No UFO's

Model 500, "No UFO's (vocal)" (YSI link)

Model 500, "No UFO's (instrumental)" (YSI link)

I hinted at a new theme this week and it begins now. We're gonna pay tribute to one of the great American cities and one of the spiritual homes for Pound for Pound, Detroit. I'm a little embarrassed that I haven't done this sooner, but the extra time has given me a chance to dig a little deeper into the music that has come out of the city in the past two decades. I want to dedicate all of these posts to one of its native daughters, JH-B, and all of the people who haven't run and still live in that city and try to bring it back to its former glory.

I can't think of a better place to start our exploration than with one of the most important artists in the history of electronic & dance music and a Pound for Pound legend, Juan Atkins. Considered by most to be the driving force behind the development of the Detroit techno sound, Atkins' vision and drive would envelop the entire city and change the face of electronic music forever. We'll hopefully discuss this more in time, dig deeper into the early history of Detroit techno. If anyone out there would like to add on or provide some guidance for me, I'd love to hear from you.

Atkins recorded under many aliases, but the Model 500 one might be the most influential in techno terms. Originally released in 1985, "No UFO's" was the first release on Atkins' own Metroplex and the second 12" Atkins put out under the moniker. I feel like techno is the most intimidating of electronic genres; I mean, it has always been for me. I imagine hard, relentless beats and a sexless world, overrun by microgenres and stoicism. For anyone else who has always felt intimidated, this might be a good starting place, at the roots. The vocal version is a classic, futuristic music that takes you like 40 years in the future when we are all flying around and have personal robots. A lifeless voice talks about paranoid conspiracies, while a sick, rubbery bassline melts your face.

Let me end with a cool quote about Detroit and its history from Atkins that I came across in this brief, but brilliant, interview:

"Berry Gordy built the Motown sound on the same principles as the conveyor belt system at Ford's. Today their plants don't work that way -- they use robots and computers to make the cars. I'm probably more interested in Ford's robots than in Berry Gordy's music."

Album Of The Year: LCD Soundsystem - Sound Of Silver

LCD Soundsystem, "Someone Great" (YSI link)

We're going to take a look back at the year that passed this week, officially say goodbye to 2007. Let's call it closure. I always get neurotic with these end of the year lists, as they find that sweet spot in a horrible personality made up entirely of neuroses, list-making, obsessiveness and self-loathing. Let's call it a perfect storm. I usually make like a million different top 10s, change them around, try to divide them into different categories so that I don't leave anyone out, take weeks too long to finalize anything and is generally an exercise in futility.

New year, new man. I have James Murphy to thank for this, I think. LCD Soundsystem's Sound Of Silver is my album of the year, an easy decision for me to be honest. It was the one I was most excited for, the one that I loved the most right away and the one that I keep coming back to. I have recommended it endlessly to friends, it's been a soundtrack for days at a time. I recently told someone that this was my favorite album of the year and he disagreed, didn't get why everyone seemed to like it so much. It's a fair question. For me, this was dance music for adults. In a year of new rave and electrorock dominance, this album was deeper, more thoughtful and interesting than all of the other dance music I heard.

It's the heart of the album, "Someone Great" and "All My Friends," where things go from great to classic. "Someone Great" is the a gorgeous, heartbreaking song that chronicles the end of a relationship, with oscillating synths, tinkling keys and effects slowly building up over the 6 and a half minutes. Usually the lyrics are a weak point, but these ones are wonderful, Murphy's voice is perfect for me, as I love to hear a less-than-perfect voice"All My Friends" sounds even better, a truly epic keys track that brings me to tears. It's this seriousness and willingness to wear emotions on the sleeve that makes it rise over the competition, makes it feel more permanent and less faddish. Of course, there's also upbeat dance punk stuff, instrumentals, cowbells and even a ballad, all of which adds up to a complete package.

That variety also gets at the idea that this is adult dance music. I'm not sure I'm explaining that well, or even can, but in essense, there's something confident about this album, as if Murphy, Goldsworthy and crew just knew what they wanted to do and did it, regardless of trends or whatever. Even something as simple as writing a song that doesn't run from emotions seems so mature, a comfortable-in-one's-own-style kinda thing that was refreshing. I'm rambling at this point, but hopefully these thoughts will get everyone to check out the LP.

Buy your copy if you haven't already, the one album I would hope everyone buys this year. Or better yet, head to the DFA Webstore and cop the new album, the Nike mix, 45:33, and the s/t debut and give your money right to the source. Yeah!

So, how about you guys and girls? Was there one album that stood out head and shoulders above everything else? Any immediately classic albums? I'll flesh out my favorite albums later this week, then onto 2008.

Hot Chip - Essential Mix 12.29.07

Hot Chip, BBC Radio One Essential Mix December 29, 2007 (YSI link)(Sendspace link) tracklisting in comments

Ahh, I love a nice tie-in/segue. Props to Pete Tong and crew for bringing Hot Chip in at the end of 2007 to put together an Essential Mix for the BBC Radio 1 program, giving me a nice 1-2 Hot Chip punch today. This is a pretty special opportunity for the band, as I can only think of one other Essential Mix by a musical group - The Rapture. Like that Rapture mix, this one covers a ton of ground, giving you everything from Snoop's latest to a Todd Terje disco edit to Burial's futuristic dubstep. It's a great listen for anyone still trying to jump into dance music, giving it to you in its most melodic, poppiest forms and mix some more popular/vocal stuff throughout. For fans of the band, here's a great chance to hear some more stuff from the upcoming album, plus a healthy amount of white labels and unreleased stuff. Interestingly, they have broken themselves down into two DJ teams; the first team (Alexis Taylor, Joe Goddard and Owen Clarke) does the first hour, while the second team (Felix Martin and Al Doyle) finishes strong in the second hour.

We've been doing these Essential Mix posts for a while now, one of the great resources for dance and electronic music fans. It's amazing to get the chance to hear such a varied assortment of DJs and producers exploring all of the various genres and subgenres every week for two hours. That's not to mention all of the other amazing programming from the likes of Mary Ann Hobbs, Annie Mac and the like. It got me to thinking how completely worthless radio has become in the United States, a wasteland and a huge change from earlier decades. In doing some research for a theme this week on a particular city, I saw just how influential radio was in helping to break and develop house and techno in this country in its earliest days in Chicago and Detroit. I don't really have a grand point here, guess it's part observation, part nostalgia. Obviously, Internet radio, blogs and podcasts have filled the void; I just worry that these vehicles aren't reaching as many people as a good radio signal once did.

Hot Chip - Ready For The Floor

Hot Chip, "Ready For The Floor" (YSI link) 320

Hot Chip, "Ready For The Floor (Soulwax dub)" (YSI link) 320

There are just some times when I don't want to be writing, when life just seems a little too much. Sadly, this is one of those times; while a new, hopeful year has begun, someone very dear to me left the country today and I feel sad and empty. When I feel lost like this, music always helps me to find my way.

What better way to start the year out than by looking ahead to the most anticipated album of early 2008, Hot Chip's newest LP. Yes, I know that this has been all over the Internets and you probably already have it, but whatever, just be glad I'm not just uploading The Smiths discography and writing sad face emoticons. Seriously though, I want to help spread the word and get people hyped for the record, as I'd love to see this album have some real mainstream success.

"Ready For The Floor" is the first single to leak from the album and it has come complete with remixes from some serious heavyweights - Soulwax, Jesse Rose and Diplo. The original is just what you would expect from the UK band, great dance pop music with that melancholic tinge that sets it apart from nearly all of dance music. It has an unhurried paceAs always for me, it's the lyrics and vocals that make me most happy, as Alexis Taylor's near-falsetto voice just sounds perfect to my ears. Add in lyrics about trying to get through to someone to dance with you and you've got yourself a good opening salvo. This is not as catchy or classic as the main singles from The Warning, but it's very good and grows on you after the first few listens. The Soulwax dub, on the other hand, doesn't need any second listen; it's a rager right out out of the gate. Dub is not the word I would describe this, as this is gnarly and rocking and awesome (not that dub can't be awesome, it's just awesome in a non-dubby way) At 8+ minutes, it takes the original on a few mini-trips, from

All of which is to say that Pound for Pound is even more psyched to hear the new album, Made In The Dark. Adding to that, Mixmag has already awarded the album Album of the Month status in their January '08 issue. You can pre-order the album from Insound in its deluxe edition or just sit tight until February 5th when it officially drops. Yeah! 2008!