Whodini - Whodini

Whodini, "The Haunted House of Rock" (YSI link)

Whodini, "Underground" (YSI link)

Whodini, "Magic's Wand" (YSI link)

Whodini, "Rap Machine" (YSI link)

Oh my G-d, I think I'm having a rap attack! It's been too long since I did any hip-hop here. I could give a whole spiel about why this is and masculinity and women and my own disgust with what I was hearing, but that would be boring. I'll just say that I hope to return more to my roots with an emphasis on the early days of the genre, when it was still trying to find its voice amidst electro, disco and house. I'm not gonna lie, it feels so good to be back home.

I'm also not gonna lie at how rad I think the self-titled debut LP from Whodini is. Released in 1984 on Jive Records, it's classic electro-rap, all synths and drum machines and wordy raps, Whodini is everything I could ask for. The group consisted of vocalists Jalil Hutchins and Ecstasy (John Fletcher) plus DJ Drew Carter; they were one of the first rap groups to enjoy a good deal of popularity, breaking out of the one-hit wonder ghetto. Their sound, at least on this one, sounds like it's at the crossroads between rap and electro, brittle beats and synths, other times it has an r&b/rap mix, out in front of the new jack swing sound of the late 80s.

The classic Whodini song is "Magic's Wand," which was originally conceived as an advertisement for a popular NYC DJ Mr. Magic. If you're thinking that's the coolest part of the story behind this song, you're wrong. The producer is Mr. "Blinded Me With Science," Thomas Dolby. How cool is that? It's like an 80s dream, Anthony Michael Hall in a John Hughes movie wearing Z Cavaricci pants. Dolby turned out a synth heavy number with a big elastic bassline, some vocodered vocals, people shouting in the background, percussion and keys that sounds miles away from what you'd hear on the radio today. There's a similar template on the other tracks, love how much slower and stretched out these tracks sound, it sounds so much more dancefloor friendly than the bangers today. Check "The Haunted House of Rock" for a Grateful Dead reference! Yeah! Steal your face!

I'd definitely recommend picking up Funky Beat: The Best of Whodini, a good overview of their career which lasted more than a decade. This group helped define the genre before it became the global sound it is today, still sounds great all of these years later.

The Blackbyrds - City Life

The Blackbyrds, "Rock Creek Park" (YSI link)

The Blackbyrds, "Happy Music" (YSI link)

The Blackbyrds, "Flying High" (YSI link)

Man, we've been a little bad lately and it's time to to stop that with some great music about being in the city, hanging out in the park, falling in love, being in love, all the good things. We're gonna get out ahead of the disco era, go to its funk roots today with a few tracks from The Blackbyrd's City Life LP. This group was formed by jazz trumpter Donald Byrd in 1973 and featured members Kevin Toney (related to Andrew, I hope), Allan Barnes, Barney Perry, Joseph Hall, Pericles Jacobs Jr. and Keith Killgo. It all began at Howard University in Washington D.C., the band would release 7 albums through 1980, with this one considered their finest.

As for the music, it's beautiful jazz-y funk music, not quite as filthy as say, a James Brown number, but just as danceable and grooving. You can definitely sense Byrd's influence, as the music has an improvisational feel on the longer numbers, complete with soloing. You even get some Ron Burgundy-esque flute solos that add to the much lighter, airier sound than you expect with the funk. I think you can hear a little bit of the transition from funk to the disco sound here, especially on "Flying High." The track features bursts of horns and and soaring strings, up in the sky rather coming at you from below like the best funk.

Things kick off with the classic "Rock Creek Park," a song you may think you've never heard but you have at some point. Like "Funky Drummer," it's become a foundational break in hip-hop, later being sampled by everyone from De La Soul, Nas to Ice Cube. Beyond that nerd stuff, this one is just a great song, and not just because of the quasi-sex breakdowns. With electric guitar, tons of percussion, the thing chugs along. "Happy Music" is my personal favorite, pure fucking bliss. Lots of great electric piano take this one over the top, along with these chika-chika guitar chord breakdowns that I love.

Since I love to end with some good uplifting (or downlifting) lyrics, I'd be remiss not to throw up some from "Happy Music":

Happy music makes me you feel good all the time
Happy music takes the troubles off your mind
Happy music makes your foot loose and fancy free
Happy music takes you where you want to be.

It sure does, doesn't it? Yeah! Happy music! Let's do more of this!

Laidback Luke - Essential Mix

Laidback Luke, BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix February 23, 2008 (YSI link) (Sendspace link) tracklisting in comments

Let's stay in the present and upload the most recent Essential Mix on Radio 1 featuring Laidback Luke. I've actually been meaning to drop a few tracks from this new wave of big-room house music coming out of Europe that has dominated in Ibiza. Laidback Luke is a Dutch producer, who has been around for while but only has taken off in the last year or two. Some of his biggest successes like "Get Dumb" have come in collaboration with members of The Swedish House Mafia - Steve Prydz, Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso. All of these names are essential, producer/DJs bringing that old funky Chicago house sound back with some electro and minimal thrown in.

This 2-hour mix is just awesome, awesome, awesome, like a night at Pacha without the Asian mafia or Jerseyites. It ranges from vocal house to electro to some techno, hell, there's even a trance-y euphoric vibe at moments. Listening to it, it's hard for me to believe that this is the overground in dance music; this set is so dynamic and sounds so great, nothing like the untz-untz stuff you have in your head. What I love most is the tempo changes, how he will drop out to just a vocal playing and slowly let the beat come back in and away we go once more. It's one of the best Essential Mixes I've heard in a while, wonderfully paced, a nice mix of current favorites, some Luke remixes and even some of his edits of classics like Daft Punk's "Teachers." I can't recommend this one more highly, especially for anyone who wants to get a sense of what clubland is like right now in Europe and the States.

Etienne Jaumet - Repeat Again After Me

Etienne Jaumet, "Repeat Again After Me" (YSI link)

While y'all are out dancing and partying and drinking and kissing, I'm home, watching Revenge of the Nerds and trying to talk myself into buying the Marc Jacobs derby shoes from his Spring line (if you work for MJ and can get me discount, holler at a kid) Most importantly, I'm home getting back in the swing of things here at Pound for Pound. We got through this week, barely, hope you missed me.

Let's start back with a great new techno track out of Europe from newcomer Etienne Jaumet, "Repeat Again After Me." This is his first release and it's a doozy, this slow-building, kinda ominous, kinda acid-y techno track that stretches out to 13+ minutes. Add in some non-jazzy horns and you have yourself a really sick track.

Juno Soundtrack

Barry Louis Polisar, "All I Want Is You" (YSI link)

Kimya Dawson, "Tire Swing" (YSI link)

The Moldy Peaches, "Anyone Else But You" (YSI link)

Ugh, I feel like I still haven't recovered from Valentine's Day. I got to spend my Saturday night in the company of the married with kids on the way, the married without kids yet and the engaged. Logically, I followed up that by returning home and drunkenly reading emails from MC that I hadn't opened in months (for the record, I'm not married to JR, not down with implants). Normally, I would wallow and be sad, contemplating the fact that I will die alone. Ahh, but not today, my friends, not today. Today I want to post about one of those things that just makes me happy, that puts a smile on my face and gives me hope and makes me want to hold hands with a girl, the soundtrack to the movie Juno.

I'm sure that everyone and their moms has seen the movie about 16 year old Juno and her unexpected pregnancy. Typically, I was months behind on this one, but who cares? It's a good movie, like seriously made me happy and teary eyed and that's about all you can ask for from a movie. Add in 2 actors from Arrested Development and you got yourself a favorite.

The thing I loved most was the music in the movie; much like a Wes Anderson movie, it seemed to perfectly fit the movie's vibe and make scenes that much better. I found myself waiting until the end of the credits to see what songs I'd just heard, which might not sound like a lot, but consider the fact that I had to pee about 10 minutes in. Also like Anderson's soundtracks, this one specializes in catchy rock songs that may not have come across your radar, like Barry Louis Polisar's "All I Want To Do," plus a few tunes from more well-known artists like Pound for Pound favs Cat Power, the Velvet Underground and Buddy Holly. There's a perfect mix of sweetness and melancholy throughout, which obviously appeals to me.

The majority of the songs were written by Kimya Dawson of Moldy Peaches fame and those were pleasant surprises, had never really heard her music and kinda assumed I wouldn't. Ahh, never judge a book by its cover, or an artist by their genre. Her songs are lo-fi acoustic numbers that center on her oddball lyrics that have a darkness to them and slightly-straining voice that makes me happy. I know that this isn't the greatest review ever, but all I can say is that all I want to do is listen to this album right now, it makes me want to go steady with a girl, fall in love, walk around the Lower East Side, spend time with friends, laugh, cry. I can't recommend this album more highly, grab it for under $10. Let me end with some lyrics from "All I Want Is You" cos they make me happy:

If you were a wink, I'd be a nod
If you were a seed, well I'd be a pod.
If you were the floor, I'd wanna be the rug
And if you were a kiss, I know I'd be a hug

All I want is you, will you be my bride
Take me by the hand and stand by my side
All I want is you, will you stay with me?
Hold me in your arms and sway me like the sea.

I'm taking a little break from posting right now, as I have a job interview tomorrow and some articles due. Things should pick up again Thursday, hopefully everyone can wish me luck and think good thoughts at 4pm Wednesday.

Sticky: Help Wanted - Web Designer

This is long overdue, I feel like I have been threatening to make this site look good for a year now. Ahh, no looking back now, we're only looking forward. With that I'm hoping to find someone to redesign this website, make it look nice and snazzy and add some new features and generally help me through the process.

I am asking you, my dear readers, for recommendations. Do you do this for a living? Do you have your own site and have a great recommendation of the person who designed it for you? If so, please email me at poundforpoundhelpwanted@gmail.com when you have a moment, as I would love to hear from you. If you're a designer, please send some examples of your work and cost. If you're a blogger, let me know any info you can, like cost, time, reliability, etc.

Thanks for your help, excited to make this happen. I am going to leave this at the top for a few days, so make sure to check below for the latest music and party info. Yeah!

Roy Orbison - Only The Lonely

Roy Orbison, "Only The Lonely" (YSI link)

Roy Orbison, "Crying" (YSI link)

Roy Orbison, "It's Over" (YSI link)

Roy Orbison, "Heartache" (YSI link)

Ugh, I had a terrible Valentine's Day, a lonely, sad one that just sucked. You know it's bad when you find yourself at the Duane Reade pharmacy at 9:30 picking up a prescription, ugh. Sometimes, you just have to accept that you are feeling down and it's always nice to know that there is so much music made just for those moments.

It seemed natural to focus our next post on one of the greatest at speaking to the broken-hearted, Mr. Roy Orbison. I first heard Orbison's music when I was probably 8 or 9 years old, can even remember the moment when I was made aware that this music was special music by my father. We were in the car back from a soccer tournament and an Orbison Greatest Hits tape was put in and my dad told me about the man in black with the greatest voice of all-time. I didn't like it at first, probably because it was so far from my first love of hip-hop, plus it was a recommendation from a parent. But, these songs wouldn't have made sense to me then anyway; I was too young to understand what this guy was singing about.

As my man sang, "Only the lonely know know why I cry, only the lonely." Indeed. At a certain point, this music makes sense to us all, as no one escapes unscathed. For sad music, though, it sounds so beautiful, majestic at times, it doesn't hide in minimalism and off-notes. Strings, backup vocals, an early rock/abilly sound slowed down, hints of doo-wop, fans of the Jens Lekman can hear one influence on his music. If you are discussing Orbison's music, there's one aspect that you have to mention, that you speak of in awe: that voice. Maybe the greatest to ever grace pop music, it can hit the high notes and go down low with authority. Listen to it on "Crying," it covers the entire vocal range in an almost operatic style and makes a nearly three minute rock song sound like so much more. There's not much to add to all of this, these songs above are some of the saddest you'll ever here, a reminder of the other side of all those great love songs. I'll end with the lyrics to "Crying," my favorite:

I was all right for a while, I could smile for a while
But I saw you last night you held my hand so tight
As you stopped to say hello
Oh, you wished me well, you couldn't tell
That I've been crying over you, crying over you
And you said, so long
Left me standing all alone
Alone and crying, crying, crying, crying
It's hard to understand but the touch of your hand
Can start me crying

I thought that I was over you
But it's true, so true
I love you even more than I did before
But darling, what can I do
For you don't love me and I'll always be
Crying over you, crying over you

Yes, now you're gone and from this moment on
I'll be crying, crying, crying, crying
Yeah, crying, crying over you

Whew. Try to top that. Thank you Roy for reminding us that it's okay for boys to cry.

I highly recommend buying the two disc The Essential Roy Orbison, which does a nice job of compiling the man's hits for a nice price. It can be a good way to get started and it allows you to get a comprehensive look at the man's career across labels. It isn't all sad songs, for the record, "Pretty Woman," "Dream Baby," etc., it's all essential.

Erotique Robotique Valentine's Disco PHILA, Are Your Friends Electric? SF, Stiletto SF and more

There's so many great parties tonight, I assume it's payback for how shitty yesterday was. Why oh why couldn't the Robotique boys thrown this party last night at my apartment? Whatever, everyone in Philly should head to Medusa Lounge (21st and Chestnut) for the Erotique Robotique Valentine's Day disco extravaganza. I mean, is there anything that makes me think of love more than a night of sweet, sweet disco music, dancing and women? I mean, that's life, people, that's what we all get up each day to have. Thanks to Mike Tee and Billy W, it'll all come together in the intimate basement. Fall in love again, with disco, with your girlfriend, your boyfriend, the city. Disco will save your life. No cover, 21+.

-Huge night in Philly. The Turnaround vs Immediate party at The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) takes a little detour from its normal funk, soul and rock sounds, inviting Mr. Spank Rock, Naeem, to come through as guest DJ. You already know about this party, a combination of the two of the best parties the city has had, add a little a booty music and watch out.



-Not often that a Click. party doesn't hold top spot. Dave P is joined by Mixhell, a.k.a. Igor from Sepultura, who has been a fixture it seems like this week on the East Coast. The reviews have been good, and you know you can count on this party to always be rad. $1 PBRs and $3 well drinks before midnight, $2 PBRs all night. $5 admission, 21+.



-Always good to have the LA Riots back in NYC, they seem to have found a home at the Robot Rock party at Le Royale (21 7th Ave South @ Leroy) I've said it before, one of the best new bands anywhere, you're not gonna want to pass up the chance to say you saw them before they have to play the Bowery and Terminal 5. Lazaro Casanova is also in from LA to spin with Dimitry!!!, Alex English and Marc-Alan Grey, should be a great night of indie and indie dance and lots more. Email to List@GBH.tv for free admission, $10 otherwise. Doors at 10pm, 21+.



-It's a bit of an LA invasion tonight, as Dirty Dave is in town as special guest at the Ruff Club at The Annex (152 Orchard St) Not much to add to this one, Dave is definitely worth checking out, a DJ who deserves more recognition. The residents are well-known and adored - Denny Le Nimh, Spencer Product, 24Court and Micprobes. Down in the basement, Nicholas Kratochvil, Jake Sinclair and Danzie will spin the tunes you know and love to a packed house.



-Ahh, a party after my own heart in Williamsburg, Fuck Love Let's Dance. It looks like another fun night at Hugs (108 N. 6th St), as Kill The Noise, AC Slater, Code-D, Lismore and Bradley D will all perform tonight to help you remember what's really important in life, finding a dancemate, not a soulmate. No cover, 21+.



-Yeah! It's Le Freak time, which means the week is over and the weekend has begun and this is where you need to be, D.C., at Napoleon (1847 Columbia Rd) with DJ Will Eastman. I know that the last Blisspop was a huge success, so I expect the momentum will keep going to this weekend. Half-priced champagne from 9-11, free Jamesons from 12-1am, great music from opening to close. Do this one, nation's capital!



-Out in Minneapolis, it's the seventh edition of the Honeymoon party in the VIP Room at First Avenue (701 First Avenue N). Presented by the Moon Goons, this one's got Ian Orth and XXNaughtywood performing, XXNaughtywood sounds especially good with its italo/disco sound. All of the Moon Goons will be on hand to spin. Don't forget there's a theme each month for dressing up purposes; this time, it's MOMS, so dress accordingly. $3, free with the purchase of a nice $10 t-shirt, 18+.



-Holy shit, what a night in San Francisco, hopefully my future home. Lots of great choices, but there's one question to ask yourself: Are Your Friends Electric? Blasthaus and Lights Down Low are coming together tonight to throw one of the raddest parties I've seen in a minute, with live performance by the amazing Glass Candy, plus a DJ set by the French kingpin Joakim, whose DJ set could include house, experimental stuff, a little jazz, who knows? Think that's it? Sorry, there's more. NYC's Foreign Islands are in town and they will spin a guest set, joining local dons Sleazemore and Honey Soundsystem for what should be an amazing night that touches on all of the parts of the dance music world. $15 tickets at the door, 9pm-3am, 21+.



-Ugh, it's hard to choose against any party dedicated to one of the greatest movies ever, The Warriors. You can't go wrong checking out the Stiletto: The Warriors Theme Party at Asia SF (201 9th St) where Miss Toats and White Girl Lust will have all of the various gangs dancing their asses off. There's also a fashion show, a costume contest and Red Bull specials. $8,,10pm-3am, San Fran, come out to play!



-Finally, there's Blow Up SF at the Rickshaw Stop (155 Fell) where the Frisco Disco guys, Jeffrey Paradise and Richie Panic, headline. You know the craziness they bring every Saturday night, they are joined by sometime guest Vin Sol, who will add a little hip-hop and Bmore club to the proceedings. There's also a live performace by Public, plus a DJ set by LXNDR from the Dot Club party at Pink. Should be a blast, 18+, 10pm-2am.


-LA Warehouse party! MeanRed Productions! Big Fun Meets Sudden Death! One of NYC's best parties, Big Fun with Rocktakon and Unemployed Lloyd, heads out to La La Land to battle the Sudden Deathers, Blu Jemz, DJ Pubes, Mike B, Staccato and Cosmic Kids. I mean, there's too many good names involved in this one for this to not be rad. The warehouse is located at 1049 E. 32nd St, check the map here. RSVP to tellmewhere@meanredproductions.com, $10 cover, 21+.

Musebox Monthly NYC,

Okay, I really don't have much to say on this shitty holiday, so I'm going to say very little beyond the details. I am super excited about the party at 205 Club (205 Chrystie) tonight, the return of the Musebox Monthly party. My wonderful roomie put this one together and she has done an amazing job. Live performance by Tippy, DJ sets by JD Samson, John Selway and Dances With White Girls, giveaways from Love Brigade, Vitamin Water, Lifestyle condoms and the big ticket of the night, Babeland gift certificates! It should be a really rad night, a great way to have dance-y good time that won't give you a chance to be lonely or depressed. As the flier RSVP to party@musebox.net to get in and enjoy all of this.

-Great night in the LES, check these out before or after Musebox. Lewd party, Happy Ending (302 Broome St), rekLES and seanMFNroberts, indiedancelectrockfunk all night. Saaga Vodka and Bass Ale open bar from 11-12, hosted by Antwan and Julius O.



-Hey Lover party at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie St) with Sweatshop Labor dudes doing a 90s R&B set, plus a set by guest DJs Around The Way Girls, Sure Shot and Radio Rose. This one also serves as a CD release party for the Girls, free CDs for those attending. There's also a make-out contest sponsored by Yume, g-d knows how that gets the judged, the Shango rum open bar from 10:30-11:30 I'm sure will help make it happen at least. No cover, 21+. Great flier, btw.



-Valentine's for the rock kids, Rockit! party at Fat Baby (112 Rivington), DJs Brad Walsh, Twig the Wonderkid, VDRK, DJ Bobbypanda and Electrochris.



-For the disco and house kids, there's Tuned Up at Darkroom (165 Ludlow St) which thankfully makes no reference to the holiday. Andy Pry, great music, no cover, starts at 11pm.



-Degenerates at Hiro Ballroom Moby, Drop The Lime and Mixhell, a.k.a. Igor from Sepultura. Advanced tickets are gone at the going.com site, probably $10 at the door, 21+.



-Mo Money, No Problems in Philly with Stephen Bloodbath and Jaysson from Plastic Little at Silk City (425 Spring Garden St) No cover, 21+.



-Paper Street Valentine's Day party, Flavor of Love, at Walnut Room (1709 Walnut St) DJ Deejay will spin, 80s, hip-hop, party stuff, complimentary Absolut 100 drinks, $3 PBRs and Lionheads. No cover, 21+.



-providence



-Love Hussy party in Atlanta at 5 Spot (1123 Eucli Ave), presented by Jeff Myers, Judi Chicago, Treasure Fingers, Drew Van Atten, Chuck Chillout, Jazspa, rad dance party, rad flier. $5 before 11, 18+.



-Pretty In Pink party at the Sidecar Lounge (5100 Classen Cir) in Oklahoma City with DJs Rad and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Wear pink tonight, make love, dance and be happy. No cover, 21+, doors at 10pm.



-Dance Robots Dance cover Norman, OK tonight as well, as Opolis Dance Party takes over The Opolis (113 N. Crawford) B. and Dylan Mackey, all ages, $3, 10pm-2am.



-Valentine's at Debonair Social Club (1575 N. Milwaukee Ave) with Dark Wave Disco and special guests White Hot Knife and Perfect Kiss. No cover, 21+.



-Mark Rodriguez's Heist Party moves to Long Beach and sets up at Cave 49 (49 S. Pine Ave) Room 1: The Adorables, Gina Turner, Dan-O, DJ Score, DJ Spy vs. Spy, Bul!m!atron and DJ Comrade Stephen. Room 2: Erick Neutron, Jesse Bot and new LA resident and Dance Robots, Dancer Joshua Distance. 18+, doors at 9pm.



-Club Pop in Seattle at Chop Suey (1325 E. Madison St) with residents Colby B and Glitterpants, special guest Sam Rousso Sound System of the Ruff Gemz party. $5 before 11pm, $10 after, 21+.



-I promise to not be so curt and lame tmrw night. Sorry.

Robotic Valentine's Underwear Party OKC, Distortion Disko DENVER and more

I fear discussing tomorrow and the holiday associated with it, but thanks to the Dance Robots, Dance DJs, I can the holiday as it should be - sleazy and half-naked. They're throwing a Valentine's Underwear party at their Robotic Wednesday weekly in Oklahoma City and I couldn't be happier. Fuck Hallmark and flowers and feeling lonely; head to the Electro Lounge (5929 N. May Ave) and dance and drink and get semi-naked and be happy at one of the best parties anywhere. The DRD crew will provide the perfect filthy soundtrack to the night, you have nothing to lose but your clothing. In your underwear, no cover, in your complete clothing, $2. Having seen pics of last year's edition, it's clear that Oklahoma City is ready to go crazy. Doors at 10pm, 21+.

-Lots of fun stuff in Philly, let's start off with this concert/dance party at Silk City (4th and Spring Garden) The Apes headline, bringing their organ-y rock sound to the Northern Liberties spot. Philly's own GANG will play as well, don't miss their dance-rock music, a local band that should get bigger. Rounding it out, The Hurrah DJs, Shawn Ryan and Chris Rogy, will probably spin music from similar genres, indie, indie dance, post-punk, if you haven't been to their monthly, here's a great chance to get a little dose. $5 admission, doors at 9pm, 21+.



-Not too far away, down in Fishtown, the venerable Crescendolls party takes over the Barbary (951 Frankford Ave) JHN RDN, Ian St.Laurent and Gregg Foreman will bring a little extra love tonight, not sure if that means some love songs in the midst of the dance and soul classics, but it's worth showing up to find out. They're showing their love up front to you, with free mixed drinks and PBRs until 11pm. No cover, 21+.



-If you are in Center City, check out the Exploit party at Sal's (200 S. 12th St) Tonight's edition features Taperecorder as guest DJ and he will be spinning a tech-house set. It's definitely not a sound that you get to hear much, definitely recommended. He joins the ladies of Exploit!, or at least two of them, Jenn Louie and Deann Dylema, for a night dedicated to electronic music. No cover here either, 21+.



-Not a whole lot going on in NYC, which makes it a good night to check out two of my favorite parties downtown. First, there's the High Voltage party at The Annex (152 Orchard St), which keeps rolling along, getting more popular and bigger each week. Tonight, residents Dimitry!!! and Prince Terrence are joined by DJ Fancy of Fannypack fame for what should be a fun night that has absolutely nothing to do with Valentine's Day. Yeah! Zygo open bar from 11pm until its gone, RSVP at the going.com site to get in for free and to see all of the young, beautiful people who will be in attendance. Doors at 10pm, 21+.



-You should also hit up Happy Ending (302 Broome St) for the Hopchank/Ninja Sonik party, which goes down every other Wednesday. DJs Reverend McFly, Morsy and Teenwolf throw one of the best parties at one of my favorite spots, great music, rap, rock, some dance, good crowd, fun times. Highly recommended, for real. No cover, 21+.


-It's Syndicate Wednesdays at Debonair Social Club (1575 N. Milwaukee Ave) in Chicago, don't think I've mentioned this party before. It looks like they bring in a few new DJs every week with an emphasis on mash-ups, which I assume just means mashing up genres like electro and house. Tonight's a good night to check this out, as Trancid of Dark Wave Disco, Jesse James and Onepunch get behind the decks. No cover, $6 Effen vodka cocktails, doors at 9pm, 21+.



-Late addition, never hear much going on in Denver, always nice to be able to hype a party and a new city. The Distortion Disko looks like a great opener, a party dedicated to electro, new wave, funk and Britpop, with a focus on providing a place for people to freak out and act crazy every Wednesday at the Hi-Dive (7 South Broadway). Tonight's a great night to check it out, as Soviet Panda from Too Much Love is the special guest, really great choice for this night, Panda should kill it. $3 cover after 10pm, $3 Stoli drinks, 21+.



-Out in LA, this looks to be a rad Awesometown at The Short Stop (1455 W. Sunset Blvd) with Greg from Acid Girls, Dirty Dave and Shaun Slaughter coming through to destroy the dancefloor and hold it down while Anne Lee and Shadowscene take over Japan. $3 Dewars drinks all night, no cover, 21+.



-The weekly Wednesday night Avenue party in Riverside at Trilussa Nightclub (3737 Main St) does a birthday edition tonight with some of the best young local DJs Skeet Skeet, Luv Tek, Hyphy Crunk, Billy Noorlag, Jimmy Boy and Rec One. However, the best reason to come through is to catch the last LA appearance (for now) by Vancouver's My! Gay! Husband! 2 rooms, 18+, send a message with your first and last name to their myspace page to get on the $5 reduced admission, then go have fun.

Goldfrapp - A&E

Goldfrapp, "A&E" (YSI link)

Goldfrapp, "A&E (Hercules and Love Affair remix)" (YSI link)

It's been too long since we've heard from Goldfrapp, one of my favorites groups sitting on the dance and pop border. What better way to brighten up this crappy, snowy day than with their newest single, "A&E"? The original version is definitely not what I expected to hear; it's pretty far from the glam electro sound that they have defined for the past few years. Instead, you hear a deep bass cello, lilting piano and harps, setting the mood nicely for Alison Goldfrapp to shine. Her voice is amazing, especially love when it goes up a little higher during the refrain. The closest comparsion that comes to mind here is Tracey Thorn, the more somber tone, the strings and the dazzling voice. You know how much I liked Thorn's LP, really looking forward to seeing what Goldfrapp have come up with for a long player.

It's hard to believe, but I was way more excited for the Hercules and Love Affair remix. The DFA group have had a few of their own releases, but this is the first remix that I know of. Andy Butler doesn't disappoint on this one, as he's taken the original and taken it into leftfield. Butler's built this one out of a lot of percussion and drums, a bit of Alison Goldfrapp's vocals, a sampled children's choir, chiming bells and a wicked little bassline. It has a shuffling, halting feel, which I love, but I'm not sure that everyone can get behind. For me, it sounds like nothing else I've heard recently, something that touches on deep house, tribal, maybe even a little new rave, but without really subscribing to any of those genres. Give it a listen, let us know what you think.

Benga - Essential Mix

Benga, BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix February 2, 2008 (YSI link) (Sendspace link) tracklisting in comments

We haven't done a post on dubstep or the Radio One Essential Mix show in awhile, so why not kill two birds with one stone? Pete Tong's program invited one of the genre's stars, Benga, to come through and put together a 2-hour mix. It's a pretty big symbolic deal, as it's only the second time that the show has featured a dubstep producer/DJ, the first being Skream last year. It's a fitting choice, as Benga owned 2007, dropping the biggest tune, "Night," and his 2008 should be massive as well, with an LP due at some point.

The mix is heavy on Benga's own tunes, along with a healthy dose of Skream and his "Night" collaborator Coki. There's a part of me that would have liked to have heard some new names on this mix, some up and comers on the scene as opposed to the established stars. But, when the mix sounds this good, it's hard to complain. Plus, on further thought, Benga has made this an exploration of his sound and I really like this take on a long mix, like Ricardo Villalobos did on his Fabric mix.

El Coco - Cocomotion

Quito, Ecuador mural, courtesy of J H-B

El Coco, "Cocomotion (Parts I & II)" (YSI link) 320

El Coco, "We Call It Disco" (YSI link) 320

El Coco, "Love To The World" (YSI link) 320

I spent yesterday at an orientation for the 826NYC group, a prerequisite to become an after-school tutor. Yes, that's right, Pound for Pound is a step closer to having a real day-to-day impact on the kids. Not just on an mp3 basis, but in a real life, real talk way. I will have free rein to teach them the evil of suburbs, the importance of universal health care, the beauty of boobs and to love themselves and each other (i.e. to be opposite of me) I will be able to create a new generation for the Pound for Pound massive, extending our reach and our power.

Most of all, I want to teach them about the power of disco to save their lives. With that in mind, let's continue to spread the word with some more classic 70s magic, a few tracks from El Coco's Cocomotion LP. El Coco was ostensibly a vehicle for the producers Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder, who would make write the music, play it and find the vocalist to finish it off. They would make a handful of hits, including the massive 2 part, 10 minute+ "Cocomotion." This one's more of a slow-burner, a slinky kinda number that grooves throughout. It's a prototypical classic sound, with strings and horns and even a flute lead the way. However, there's definitely a different sensibility at work here, perhaps informed by Rinder's jazz training. While there is a steady pulse throughout, it never goes all out, always feeling a bit laid-back. Even the vocals have a whispery quality, they're quite far from diva-level.

"We Call It Disco" is a lot shorter but maybe even sweeter, as great organ and synth chords help this one to such great heights. The vocals are front and center here as well, always love to hear some proud lyrics about disco and the club. Finally, "Love To The World" the B side to the Cocomotion 12", is as uplifting as the title suggests, a strings-heavy track that sits between the previous two songs. It has a few peaks and subsequent quieter periods. The whole album is excellent, a great example of how the disco sound could create

Lose Your Shit BK, Modular & People Don't Dance No More BK, Mind Control PHILA and more

Tonight is real quality, a big Saturday night. Meanred Productions is setting the bar super high with the Lose Your Shit party at 12Turns13 (172 Classon @ Myrtle) in Bed-Stuy. What makes it so rad? Rub-n-Tug, motherfuckers, Rub-n-Tug. The disco-funk-weirdo DJs are headlining, going back to their loft roots and you won't want to miss this, possibly the best DJs you'll hear all year. Also in the building are DJs Sujinho, Qool DJ Marv and $mall ¢hange, should be a great mix of rap, baile funk, noise, all over the map. Seriously, this is the night you've been waiting for, a night away from the clubs with some of the best DJs in the city, no photographers, no b.s. You can grab an advanced ticket or pay at the door, $10. Doors at 10pm, I think it's BYO, FYI. Yeah! Lose your shit Brooklyn!

-If you like something a little more structured, you need to hit up Studio B (259 Banker St) tonight, as Modular and the People Don't Dance No More party have combined forces to bring Joakim and his Ectoplasmic Band to Greenpoint to play live. I'm not sure if this is the first NYC show by this group, but it's definitely a rare opportunity to catch one of dance music's most interesting artists and his new project. Sounds great but there's still a lot more going on, as Juan Maclean, Andy Butler of Hercules and Love Affair and Robot Blair will spin. Don't miss Butler, just a word to the wise. Grab $10 advanced tickets or pay $15 at the door. Doors at 10pm, 21+.



-If you want something a little smaller or want to get a jump on Valentine's Day, hit up Royal Oak (594 Union Ave) tonight for the Eat Your Heart Out Valentine Bash with DJ Tiny Pants and DJ Weisted. Here's your chance to celebrate with your honey and get drunk and stupid before the nice dinner in a few days, or else to meet your future Valentine. Or you can just go out and have fun, stop by before or after Studio B, hang out and ignore the corporate holiday. Either way, the DJs will spin lots of great dance tunes and cheesy pop and make it a necessary stop in your Williamsburg night. No cover, 21+.



-I just caught this one at the last second, really glad I did, as the Hip Replacement party should be everyone's favorite party in Philly. Disco will save your life and Mike Tee, Billy W. and Jhan Olo can make that happen once a month. Tonight's party looks extra rad, as they've brought in special guest Jeremy Campbell, a.k.a. Tropical Jeremy, to make the night cosmic. Dude will blow your mind with cosmic and italo tonight, a great follow-up to the set he did at Paradise a few years ago. Honestly, I hope that everyone in Philly gets behind this night, great stuff. No cover, 21+.



-Always excited to see the Pi Lam guys throwing a party, they've held some rad events at their house (3914 Spruce St) in the past year. They've got a special one tonight, the Mind Control party, a night dedicated to dubstep, grime and bass anthems. They've chosen the right DJs, bringing down Star Eyes of NYC's Trouble & Bass and bringing in hometown heroes Starkey and Dev79 to rattle your heads with sub-bass. I really recommend everyone in Philly come through to check out Star Eyes, she's excellent, the music tonight should be extra good in a house party setting. Doors at 11pm, that's the only info I have.




-If you don't want to cross the river or want something a little dancier, hit up Medusa's (21st and Chestnut) for the monthly Philadelphyinz gathering. APT One and Skinny Friedman are getting bigger and bigger, makes this party in the dark basement spot all the cooler. You know the deal here, read the flier for a way radder description of the musical content. One of the best parties in Philly, second Saturday of the month, no cover, 21+.



-Sadly, I feel like I have no clue about what goes down in Baltimore. It's nice to be able to put something up from the Charm City, this Monkey Hustle party at The Depot (1728 N. Charles) looks good. Every 2nd Saturday of the month, Mikie Love and guests spin, "playing jump up, get down, electronic sexy music". Tonight, Love's joined by Stretch, Famous Amos, Steve Newsense, Pixelbombs, Atari Krunk and Philly's Steven Bloodbath. No cover, cheap drinks early, doors at 9, goes til 2am, late night party at the Copycat Building to follow late night.




-Tulsa, it's a Dance Robots, Dance Invasion tonight! Don't be scared, though. B. Kylie and Dyaln Mackey come in peace, they wish only to spread great dance music and good vibes. Head to the Soundpony (409 N. Main St) for a guaranteed rad Saturday night. Doors at 10pm, 21+, I don't think there's a cover, but I can't guarantee that.



-Late Update: Pase Rock has also been added, taking it all up a notch. Hmm, the French band Data seems to be awfully popular in LA tonight. Not sure if the band is playing at both parties or if there's some confusion, but whatever, you can't go wrong at either event. Anne Lee and Shadowscene present the Blow Up LA Winter Formal tonight, with Data headlining, Richie Panic of Frisco Disco, Sleazy V and Bul!m!atron spinning at a downtown warehouse (4301 Valley Blvd) RSVP to blowup@princehouserecords.com to get in for $5 before 11, $10 after that. There's $2 vodka monsters from 10-12, 18+, party goes til 4am.



-Iheartcomix, Viva La Rock and XLR8R are bringing you Mixhell tonight at The Echo (5514 Sunset Blvd) Mixhell is actually Iggor Cavalera, the drummer from Sepultura, this is his DJ project. He says that he blends electro, discopunk, old school hip-hop, rock and electronic stuff, while using an MPC sampler to add the right amount of beats to the mix. Data is also scheduled to play, plus My! Gay! Husband! spins with Franki Chan and Paparazzi. Another big night for this party, one of the best around. $12 advanced ticket, 18+.



-While Mr. Panic is blowing up in LA, Jefrodisiac holds down the weekly Frisco Disco party at The Transfer tonight. He's brought in the guys from the Missing Toof blog to keep him company and help keep the raucous, raging atmosphere at this one. I'm sure you've been to this one, no reason to stop now. Doors at 10pm, 21+.

Blisspop DC, FUN 1 Year Anniversary BK, Space Cakes BK and more

I've been a big fan of Will Eastman and all of the good things he is doing down in D.C. His Blisspop party is the big one, the monthly rager that brings it all together at 9:30 Club (815 V Street NW) This one looks like the biggest and best yet, so it's not surprising that it's called Best Party Eva. 33HZ will play live, Dave Nada, DJ Meistro and Mr. Eastman himself will spin all night and you should be psyched for this one, District of Columbians! Sponsored by Scion and brightestyoungthings.com, this should be a great night of indie dance, hip-hop, disco, house, great band, great DJs. What the hell, best eva. $12, all ages, doors at 10pm. Take a minute and check out the video flier for this one, Pound for Pound goes viral:



-It's a big night in Williamsburg, nothing bigger than the one year anniversary party for FUN at Studio B (259 Banker St) They've clearly chosen their special guests for maximum Pound for Pound attention : electro legends Egyptian Lover and Newcleus. I mean, seriously, this is huge. It's not every day you get to take a trip back to the early 80s glory days, when machine music took over. Egg Foo Young of Turntable Lab is special guest DJ with residents Rok One and Eamon Harkin. There's also a NewYorkFuckinCity side room with DJ Elle and IXL, all your musical needs you should be covered. Hosted by Roxy Cottontail, presented 10 Deep, Re:Up Magazine and TTL, this is a fitting celebration for one of the city's best weekly. Open bar from 10-11, $10 advanced ticket, $13 at the door, doors at 10pm, 21+.



-Great party at Hugs tonight that appears to be called Space Cakes, not totally sure what the name means, but I do know that the DJs on hand are some of my favorites from NYC. Nick Catchdubs, Star Eyes and Rezound are joined by Seattle's Pretty Titty for this one. This one should be a fun, laid back night, as all of these DJs will spin great music from all genres. No cover, 21+.



-Still in Williamsburg, the Finger On The Pulse guys do their regular thing at Royal Oak (592 Union Ave) Tonight's edition is a birthday edition for Courtney featuring Heidy and Trebek of Montreal's Guilty Pleasures and Weekends Never End and of course Never Forget and Terry Diabolik. You know the deal, fun times, dancing, drinking, stop in early or late or stay all night. No cover, 21+.



-If you have to be in the city, there's one top choice and that's the Stop Progress party at APT (419 W. 13th St) where resident Max Pask is joined by DFA's Mock and Toof in the basement. Those names should have you already super psyched, so I won't hold you back. $10, 21+, awesome.

-I'm amazed at how much LA loves to do it big. Each night seems to have another massive party featuring some of the best of the local DJs. Tonight, it's the Hype LA party at Robertos (686 N. Spring St) with resident DJ Don't Believe The Hype being joined by guests DJ S!n and Hyphy Crunk in the main room. The side room is held down by guests Disk Jo Slim, Dmndays and Bul!m!atron. Expect big music all night, new ravelectro, Bmore, indie in both rooms. RSVP at the going.com site for $5 admission before 10:45, $10 otherwise. 18+, doors at 10pm, goes until 2am.



-The Mute party at the Proof Bar (215 N. Broadway) in Santa Ana has been a really consistent party, bringing in quality DJs week after week. Tonight, they host My! Gay! Husband!, who we mentioned earlier in the week. The Iheartcomix dude is definitely worth checking out, he will help DJ Legit, DJ Ben N. and Rockberry take this to the next level. Doors at 9, no cover, 21+.



-Let's end with one of the most consistent parties anywhere, the Lights Down Low party in San Fran. Tonight at the 222 Club (222 Hyde @ Turk), things are going back on some War Games 80s computer nerd shit. Laromlab brings along his Commodore 64, Atari, laptop and samplers to create computer music, which fits well with the name of the guest DJ, Commodore 69. Residents Sleazemore and Rchrd Oh will smash computers and melt your faces with dirty dance music. Parker Day takes the photos, you need to be a part of this party.

Wurst Monthly NYC, I Hate Music NYC and more

Every so often a party comes along that just seems perfect to me. The Wurst Monthly at APT (419 W. 13th Street) was already one of my favorite parties, featuring the DJs behind the Wurst edits spinning a night of disco, funk, soul and house. My Cousin Roy, the Runaway guys (Marcos Cabral and Jacques Renault) and Lee Douglas are at the top of my NYC list, as good as it gets. Tonight, add in the Chicago house legend Farley "Jackmaster" Funk and you have yourself a dream night down in the basement imo. Farley is responsible for a slew of acid and deep house classics, a seminal figure, this is a rare occasion to catch him spinning in NYC. $10, 21+, see you there.

-Not to be outdone, WhateverWhatever presents the I Hate Music party at Love (178 MacDougal Street) Trevor Jackson will spin, a guy who has had a huge impact on current dance music through his now-defunct Output Recordings, his work with Playgroup and his DJ Kicks mix and his DJ sets around the world. Expect to hear the best new techno and electro, but all sorts of warped, eclectic choices from across the musical spectrum. Justin Strauss, Billy C and Bryan Mette will also spin. It all happens on one of the city's best soundsystems in an amazing oasis away from the NYU kids and their beer pong games. $4 well drinks until midnight, supposedly the first time the club has offered this. $10, doors at 10 pm, 21+.




-If you are looking for something a little smaller, you can't go wrong with hitting up the Darkroom (165 Ludlow Street) for Tuned Up. Andy Pry does this one every Thursday night, was able to catch him Friday night in the side room at Studio B and loved what I heard. It looks like this party has a similar sound: "a night of weird beard freakouts, rock and rollerz, house vibes, heavy funk, space disco, soulful jamz, early electro and future rap." I can't think of a better soundtrack for a night out, this looks like a great weekly stop, check it out. No cover, 21+.



-Of course, you already know about the Common Folk party at Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie Street) with the Sweatshop Labor guys. They've got a special guest for this one, as Air Jared of Purple Crush will come through to play some party jams and bangers. It's a really great choice for this night, one of the fun nights any day of the week. Shango rum open bar from 10:30-11:30, no cover, 21+.



-I don't really know if DJ Momjeans is any good, to be honest. I do know that the dude was on one of my favorite TV shows of all-time, That 70s Show. I mean, c'mon, you almost need to go to this just to show respect to Steven Hyde and find out Eric and Donna are doing. Even cooler, the Love Brigade are going to be modeling their fashion all night and presenting this night with Cheeky Bastard. Mellowdrone will play live and Alex English and Peter Makebish will spin. 2 for 1 vodka drinks from 2-3, no cover if you get on the guest list. Doors at 10pm, 21+.




-Down in Philly, I definitely recommend the Mo Money No Problems party at Silk City (425 Spring Garden) Hard to beat a night dedicated to the music of the 90s, the rap, the slow jams, some r&b and a little pop. I've always felt this was the best night to go out in the city, feel like this is definitely a top choice to keep that string going. No cover, 21+.



-More in Center City, the Seclusiasis Thursday night party happens at Sal's (200 S. 12th Street) This one's dedicated to the music of now, especially the bass-heavy, underground stuff. Tonight BD1982 and Digga Crates of Inciting will spin all night and give the underground a home upstairs at the club. No cover, $2 domestics, $3 mixed drinks until 11pm.



-Atlanta should be psyched as it's time again for the Fuck Yesss party at the Drunken Unicorn at the MJQ Concourse (736 Ponce De Leon Place) Resident DJs Le Castle Vania and Treasure Fingers have been traveling around the country headlining at parties everywhere; but you Atlantans get them at their own party, raging indielectro to melt your face. Show some love to the hometown stars, 18+, no cover.



-Finally, a little something darker happens in Chicago, as the Damaged party hit Lava (1270 N. Milwaukee Ave) Residents Mister S and Eddie Riot have made a great call and brought in Trancid from the Dark Wave Disco to kill it tonight. This night specializes on industrial, electro and new wave, with lots of other genres being thrown into the mix as well. Free before 10:30, $5 after, 21+.



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Jens Lekman - Night Falls Over Kortedala

Jens Lekman, "The Opposite of Hallelujah" (YSI link)

Jens Lekman, "Your Arms Around Me" (YSI link)

This one's from last year, but it's so good that it deserves a place in an early 2008 post. Every so often, I have conjured up an image of what a particular artist sounds like and it is completely 100% wrong. Such is the case with Jens Lekman, who for some reason I placed in the Tom Vek category of soul singer backed by electronic beats. I truly wasn't prepared for the sound of this album or just how fucking rad Lekman is.

Night Falls Over Kortedala is an indie pop album, pure and simple. It's perfect late-night listening, for those sad and lonely nights when you only have music to keep you company. One hears echoes of Burt Bacharach, Belle and Sebastian, Scott Walker and others; of course, it's an updated version of all of those influences, as much of the music, from strings to drums, are sampled. It's not easy to know what's sampled and what's live, although I can't say I really cared when listening.

For me, the sound that matters most is Lekman's voice, which sounds so perfect to me. For longtime readers, you know that I am not a huge rock or indie fan, it usually takes a unique and great voice to draw me in. Lekman's alternates between a deep crooner's voice to a fragile falsetto and I love it. On the refrain of "The Opposite of Hallelujah" especially, it seems on the verge of cracking. That song was the first one to blow me away, a bouncy number with piano and strings that has a twinge of melancholoy sweep through it, especially with each "You don't know what I'm going through" at the end. "Your Arms Around Me" is a slower number, a love song centering around a kitchen accident. Right now, this is probably my favorite track, it's so sweet and sincere, a wonderful respite from the irony and distance of so much of what I listen to. The strings are amazing on this, really add to that epic feel all good love songs should have. The rest of the album is just as good and in a similar stylistic vein.

I just want to lay in bed, sip tea, think about love lost and maybe even have a good cry when I listen to this album. Readers know that there is no higher compliment I can give. For me, it falls easily next to the music of Caribou, exquisite, lush pop music that makes me sad and a little happy. Highly recommended, grab a copy and listen for yourself. You can't sance 24/7, this is the music for the other times.

False - 2007

False, "Plus Plus" (YSI link)

False, "Face The Rain" (YSI link)

We've been doing more minimal techno here lately, the dominant sound in the genre for the past year or two. We've also mentioned Matthew Dear a ton lately, so why not extend both streaks with a post on False's 2007, Dear's recent album under his minimal alias. This one has the hallmarks of minimal with the stripped down, repetitive, glitchy, bleepy sound that slowly changes and unfolds. I haven't heard a ton of the genre yet, but I think that Dear is more committed to the minimal aspect than others. 2007 is in essence a mix, albeit a mix of original material. It should remind you a little of the live mix I put up from Dear a few weeks ago, as the album feels like one continuous movement, not individual singles.

Things kick of with what sounds like race cars screaming around the track (or possibly howling wind) in "Indy 3000," but the listener soon descends into a molecular world, where everything seems to be broken down into smaller parts than you normally hear in music. This isn't verging on silence or anything like that, there's a definite pulse throughout, one that stays consistently in the same BPM range, say 130-140ish. My description probably makes this sound as boring as hell, but it's really the complete opposite. These tiny notes and sounds draw your ear in and make you listen that much harder. For example, on "Face The Rain," out of this bass and drums groover comes these piano chords that completely blow me away, like the sun coming up during a rainstorm or something. "Plus Plus" precedes itI'm not sure that this CD is a good intro into the minimal techno world however, as this one can claustrophobic at times; as much as I love the subtle shifts, it also means that there isn't any big hooks or changes of pace.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of this CD, take a chance on something new and different. The minimal scene has started to draw me in over the past year, I look forward to exploring this world more in the future.

WadKlub NYC, No More Conversations SF and more

It's Fashion Week in New York City, this is probably the closest I'm going to get to all of that. One of my favorite magazines, Paris' Wad, is coming to the city and are throwing a party, WadKlub Invades NYC at Le Royale (21 Seventh Ave) Lots of Pound for Pound favorites are gonna be on hand, most notably a live show by Kudu at 11:30 and a fashion show by the rad Love Brigade. If that wasn't enough, you also get DJ sets by DJ Dee Nice from Paris, Egg Foo Young, Roxy Cottontail and Anthony 2Tone Cochran upstairs, plus Mike Nouveau & Sean Fightcats and Blu Jemz & Lloydski. There's also a Pink/Fuze open bar from 9-10 and 2 for 1 Pink/Fuze drinks from 2:30-3:30. Email heartbeat@roxycottontail.com or info@sauvagestudio.com for free admission, doors at 9pm, 21+.

-For something just as big and crazy, head downtown to 205 Club (205 Chrystie) for Lamazing's Sexpot Bday Extravaganza. It really is an extravaganza, with The Real Live Show, Heavy, DJ Equal, Stimulus & Dhundhee, Belinda Baker, Nick Hook and Kingston 19 will perform and spin tonight. There will be some added surprises and gifts and scantily dressed partygoers. RSVP to 205@thetastecrew.com to assure that you get in, presented by Taste, hosted by R. Napolean, this should be an epic night. Not sure who La Mazing is, but wish her a happy birthday when you see her. Doors at 10, 21+.



-Sometimes, it only takes a few people to have a rager. If those two people are the Sweatshop Labor DJs, you're set. They are throwing a party tonight at Lit (93 Second Ave) called Scraps. Definitely check this one out, as the Lit basement is a great space that is ripe for a comeback and these are the guys who can do it. No cover, 11 pm-4 am, let's hope this becomes a regular night.



-Man, Wednesdays really is the night to go out in the city. Here's another favorite, the Moonwalk party at Happy Ending (302 Broome St) Rezound and Cousin Cole do this biweekly party and needs to be a permanent spot on your calendar. Great crowd, great DJs spinning a variety of genres, from electronic to rap to 80s to mashups, you'll hear it all. 2 for 1 drinks from 11-midnight, get there early or come late, highly recommend. No cover, 21+.



-Finally, there's ole reliable High Voltage at The Annex (152 Orchard St) Let me first say, what a rad flier, just fantastic. For the record, the dude there is the guest DJ tonight, Huggs, in from Montreal to kill another dancefloor. Dude can spin all kinds of music, from classic hip-hop to funk to recent bangers, has spun with everyone from Diplo to DJ AM. He's starting out on a tour of the US and Canada, this is his only stop in NYC. Stop by to find out why he's so popular. Residents Dimitry!!! and Prince Terrence will do their thing as well. I'm hearing news that MTV will be in the house filming, while I'm more of a VH1 guy, that's still pretty cool. The Zygo open bar from 11 until its gone should help you get over being camera-shy. No cover, 21+.



-If you don't want to leave Brooklyn, you can check out the ChiefMag.com Issue Release Party at Savalas (285 Bedford Ave @ S. 1st) Rev McFly and Dirty Fingers will spin all night, should be a nice way to remember to check out a cool new magazine and dance right through the hump day. Free Yuengling beer at 10:30, no cover, 21+.



-I've said a lot about the Robotic Wednesdays party at the Electro Lounge (5929 N. May Ave) in Oklahoma City. I'm gonna be brief this time, no one wants to be beat over the head, I understand that. I will simply recommend everyone who can check this party, let the Dance Robots Dance DJs take care of you for the night. You won't regret it. $3, 21+.


-This looks like a super rad party in San Francisco, No More Conversations at 222 Club (222 Hyde Street @ Turk) Presented by Emily Betty, Tiri and thegentleking.com with photos by Jerome Pour Homme, it's a night specializing in "electro, trap rap, bangers, coke rap, heavy bass, and party jams for dancing pleasure. Throw in some acid, ghetto house and disco and you pretty much don't need this blog. Each month features a new set of DJs; this month you get Richie Panic from Frisco Disco, Sake One of Pacific Standard Time and DJ LXNDR of the Fling party. Show some support to this monthly, really good stuff. RSVP at the going.com site or message their myspace page for $3 admission, $5 otherwise. 10pm-2am, 21+, yeah!




-LA loves the big parties and that spirit has moved into the suburbs as well, as Riverside has its own weekly indie dance rager in the form of Club Avenue at Trilussa (3737 Main St) Tonight's special guest, My!Gay!Husband!, is in from Vancouver for a little mini-LA tour. Expect a great mix of indie dance, Bmore, juke and lots of his own excellent edits, should be really rad. He'll join residents DJ Jimmy Boy and Billy Noorlag, plus Sleazy V and Bul!m!atron for a great night. 2 rooms, 5 DJs, free parking, drink specials, giveaways from American Apparel and MooL.A. Message your first and last name on their myspace page to get on the $5 reduced list, 18+, doors at 10pm.

Sylvester - Step II

Sylvester, "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" (YSI link)
Sylvester, "Dance (Disco Heat)" (YSI link)

Sylvester, "Was It Something That I Said" (YSI link)

Oh boy, this is a good one. We've been slowly bringing this site around to the disco sounds, this one's essential stuff. Sylvester is one of the pivotal male singers in the genre's history, a larger than life figure who sang on some of the greatest songs of the late 70s and early 80s. Born Sylvester James, he would actually start out making rock music in San Francisco in the early 70s. Over the course of that decade, he would begin to make funkier and dancier music, until it all came together when he began collaborating with Patrick Cowley in 1978. They began to work together after Sylvester heard Cowley's work on a synthesizer in the San Francisco studio he was using.

They would first come up with the LP Step II and Sylvester's voice with Cowley's synth work gave us these two disco classics. "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" kicks things off and it will make you feel mighty real too. Oh man, this is so good, joyous, peak-time stuff. It's all about Sylvester's vocals, he seems able to be able to bring the song to various high points with the soaring voice and little hollers. Underneath all of that, there's a lush classic disco sound; there's a funky bass, bongos and claps and a strong 4/4 beat, some effects and keys and an oscilllating synth that helps build the tension in the middle section. "Dance (Disco Heat)" features the vocal talents of Izora Rhodes and Martha Wash, i.e. Two Tons O' Fun, who are all over this one. The bass is just massive, the keys and harp are nice, the pace is more furious and consistent than "You Make Me Feel." "Dance with me in the disco heat, dance with me in the disco heat." Yeah!

The album's B side is less dancefloor-centric, which isn't a bad thing. You get slower, more melancholic cuts, including a Bacharac-David tune ("I Took My Strength From You"). "Was It Something That I Said" has a soul-ballad feel, with Sylvester's tender vocals trying to figure out why a relationship ended, horns and strings and the ladies singing great backup vocals. I love it, even if it isn't a classic.

You need these songs in your life. This is beautiful music, this will brighten your day and, yes, save your life. Now, if it would just get Obama to support universal health care.

Black Disco 205 Tuesdays, Hot Chip Scion House Party LA, dANCE LA

Okay, this is gonna be quick one, got lots of music to get to shortly. But, it's Tuesday night and I have to hype my favorite party, 205 Tuesdays at 205 Club (205 Chrystie) This is a special night, as it's a Blackdisco EP release party and the first night with Prince Language as resident. Blackdisco features DJs Nitedog and Lovefingers, who spin that underground disco sound that will fit in perfectly in the basement, can't wait to check this out. To take it up a notch, No Disco Comprendo's Prince Language join DFA's Justin Miller for the month of February as resident DJ. I mean, what more could you ever ask for?

-Out in LA, Scion is doing house party and it's not on some kegs and iPod thing. It's actually at the Viper Room (8852 W. Sunset Blvd) and Hot Chip is DJing, so it's pretty much the complete opposite of a house party. Let's not get bogged down in semantics though, let's appreciate a party featuring Hot Chip, Spank Rock DJs Devlin and Darko and Franki Chan. Let's also appreciate that it's free, as long as you click over to the RSVP site. Once on the list, get there early, as space will fill up fast. Doors at 10pm, 21+.


-If you can't get in to that one, head over to Arena (6655 Santa Monica Blvd) for the weekly dANCE party. Tonight's edition might be the best so far, as they have globe-trotting indielectro superstar Le Castle Vania playing the main room. You should not miss this guy, for real. Paparazzi will join him in the main room, while Spy Vs Spy, Bip Jeffington and Joaquin do it up in The Attic. This party has been a big success with big, young crowds every week; tonight is definitely a can't-miss one, good time to get on board. $5 before 10:30 with flier, 18+.

Traxmen - Give The People What They Want

Above is a great shot of some graffiti scrawlings on a wall in Quito, Ecuador, taken by Pound for Pound correspondant JH-B. Note the Jessica Te Amo, proof that she already has fans in South America.

Gant-Man, "Still Bangin" (YSI link)

Gant-Man, "Umn" (YSI link)

Gant-Man, "Untitled" (YSI link)

I saw hell this weekend and it was the L train running on one track. Ugh, body to body, 5 deep on the platform, my worst nightmare right now, ahead of breast reductions and a McCain presidency. When I'm feeling down and shook like this, I turn to one of Pound for Pound's spiritual homelands, Chicago, specifically the Chicago of the 80s, when the house sound took shape.

Let's go to our favorite source, Dance Mania Records, for today's dose. These tracks come from Dance Mania 257, released in 1998, the final record the Traxmen would put out under that name, one of the final releases documenting the second wave on the label, i.e. the ghetto/booty house period, led by DJ Funk and Robert Armani. This followed the acid house one of the 80s, which the Traxmen had a say in as well.

Give The People What They Want features one side of tracks by Eric Martin, the other by Gant-Man. The Gant-Man ones are my favorites, classic minimal jack trax with male and female call and responses, filthy lyrics. G-d, the drums on all three are so sick. Love the slow build-up on my favorite "Still Bangin'," with hi-hats, claps and rare keys. It's when that huge bass drum comes in that things get real serious real fast. This one is relentless, a runaway train, the vocals only add to it amazingly, as they fly out at a furious pace. "Umn" continues the nice use of a synth, which a nice melodic line lying on top of the banging below. Finally, there's the weed anthem "Untitled," which has a little extra bounce on the drums, a great combo with the male-female back and forth about getting free weed. All in all, a pretty essential B side, a must have for those who love the booty sound. Yeah!

Hurrah PHILA, Blow The Speakers CHI and more

I've been getting more and more excited by all of the great parties in Philly devoted to the music we love like acid house, electro, house and even disco and techno. Hip Replacement, Restless Leg Syndrome, Robotique are a few, tonight's heaadliner is another. The Hurrah party at Medusa (21st and Chestnut) happens the first Saturday of every month and it needs to have a permanent place on your calendar. Shawn Ryan and Chris Ego spin a mix of face-melting dance stuff and that spiky, danceable post-punk funk stuff. Tonight, the guy's are joined by Dave Tat of the aforementioned Restless Leg Syndrome party, who will fit right in with a similar mix of music. Best of all, it goes down in the dark basement space, which is just made for dancing and debauching. Get behind this Philly, it's gonna be the scene. No cover, 21+.

-Afterwards, head to Transit for the city's only afterhours party, Mad Pu$$y. This one's bringing in a ton of great guests every Saturday, tonight is more for the regulars and local stars. Brendan Bring'em will spin in the main room, the Philadelphyinz will hold down the basement and C Sharp spins reggae upstairs. Click here to get on the list, which gets you in free before midnight, $5 after. Get there early and enjoy free PBR from 10-12, per usual, 21+.



-Speaking of Philly, Dave P has brought The Teenagers to Brooklyn with him for the Fixed party tonight at Studio B (259 Banker St). This is your last chance to catch the guys in NYC, they'll play at 11pm so don't dilly dally. To take it all up a notch, this one's the Hot Chip official afterparty and those guys will do a guest DJ set. The hype may bring the building down, so be careful. $10 advanced tickets, $12 at the door, 18+.



-I was thinking of just mentioning the U.N.I.T.Y. 90s party at Hugs (108 N. 6th St), not putting up the flier. But, they flipped the script and remade the flier and it has to go up. Marky Mark in his underpants, I mean whatever, I don't think he's hot, not one bit. I'm not attracted to him or rippling muscles at all, so just deal with it. I am into this party, Lauren Flax and JD Samson's party dedicated to the music of the 90s. The ladies are joined by Chelsea Star from the legendary gay SF party Hot Pants, should be as good as ever. I can say that this party packs people in, get there early to find a good spot on the dancefloor.



-The Dark Wave Disco are back with an all-ages party tonight at Subterranean (2011 W. North Ave) and they're going to turn the volume and bass way up. It's the Blow The Speakers party, a mix of rock and dance music, where Trancid, Mark Gertz and Greg Corner join with Kid Color to destroy your eardrums. In a good way. $7 for 18+, $5 for 21+, doors at 10:30 pm, the party goes until 3am.



-The battle between the decades is on tonight, as the Dance Robots, Dance DJs are throwing The Eighties Dance Party at Electro Lounge (5929 N. May Ave) Ahh, what a decade, especially if you forget about Reagan. New wave, real electro, late disco, post punk, I trust that the DRD guys will have a field day with all of this material. This looks like it's the fourth (and possibly final) edition of this party, so don't sleep. $1 if you dress up, $3 if you don't, doors at 9pm, 21+.



-You think the Frisco Disco guys are soft? Think again, Jefrodisiac and Richie Panic carry big guns and even bigger tunes to kill dancefloors. Tonight at The Transfer (198 Church St) they remind you why this is one of the most fun and crazy weeklies anywhere. Check out the photos from the January 26th edition to see just as crazy and awesome, this many people kissing, hugging and dancing can't be wrong. Awesome photos by Lady Meleksah, awesome party. Free before 10:30, $5 after.



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Jamie Jones - Should Have Gone Home

Jamie Jones, "Should Have Gone Home" (YSI link) 320

Late-night post here, which is the only time I could put up this track from rising techno star Jamie Jones. For everyone who has ever been out to a club, hell anyone who has ever been out at a bar or a party or anything, "Should Have Gone Home" will only make you nod your head. A drugged voice tells the common lament: "It was 2 am, so we started to rock. It was 4 am and the place got hot. It was 6 am, I was all alone. When did they leave me? I should have gone home." Indeed. This song should be played for every grade school student in the world, the lesson that nothing comes in the final few hours of the night is way more important than stupid fractions and shit. This is a life lesson people! Go home!

Anyway, these words are spoken over a minimal, bleepy track that works so well, suitably eerie and ominous for a song about the late, late hours. I hate to use the minimal tag, as there's so much going on here. The drums are amazing, it sounds like 3 or 4 layers of them at times. They drive the track, giving it that perfect feel for an end of the night themed song, wound down but still driving forward. I'm never great with the genre labels, but for me there's a slight house feel to this one, a little more rhythm than what I traditionally associate with techno.

London-based Jones, with releases on Crosstown Rebels, Freak 'n' Chic, Get Physical and B Pitch Control, is a young artist that everyone is going to have keep an eye. Hopefully, there's a full LP on the way, in the meantime, go to Beatport and check out his other work. Check out his myspace page for more info and club dates. Let us know what you think, as I may

Jonathan K's Booty Shakin Birthday Blow Out BK, Hotel MPLS and more

It's a big night so we might as well start with one of the biggest parties I've seen, Jonathan K's Booty Shakin Birthday Blow Out at Studio B (259 Banker St) in Greenpoint. Take a look at the line-up and be in awe - Spank Rock live, DJ sets from The Rapture, Busy P and So Me, Le Tigre's JD Samson and Eamon Harkin, plus Dances With White Girls and Andy Pry of Throne Of Blood in the side room all night. Late Update: two new live performers were just announced: some guy named The GZA and Amanda Blank. Yeah, this is crazy. You're gonna want to grab a ticket right now as they have been selling at a crazy rate, esp for a Studio B party. You may not get in at the door is what I am sayin'. Check the info here on how to purchase advance tickets, $18, 21+.

-More good stuff in Williamsburg, as the Finger On The Pulse guys are doing their Royal Oak party tonight and it's a good one. They've brought in special guest DJ Treasure Fingers from ATL, it's the first NYC appearance for the Fool's Gold/Fuck Yesss dude. This one should be a great night of new electro, indie dance stuff, plus the old soul and r&b that you always get at FOTP parties. RSVP at music@fotpnyc.com to get on the list, no cover, 21+.



-Sometimes you just want to act like an adult, dress nice and enjoy a cocktail. If that is the case, head to Macri Park (462 Union Ave) tonight for Cocktails with Sweatshop Labor. Bring a date, impress with your style and sophistication, listen to great music, get blindingly drunk because you aren't used to drinking real drinks instead of shitty beer. Seriously though, this is a nice choice for anyone looking for a chiller, more intimate or a good pre or post game for some of the other festivities.



-The final Williamsburg piece is at the Lucky Cat (245 Grand St) where the Philadelphyinz meet Flagrant Fowl, Apt One and Skinny Friedman join Cousin Cole and Pocketknife for a night of genre-hopping musical exploration. I feel like this has become a regular gig for the Philadelphyinz, definitely recommend checking them out, always good to hear people willing to spin songs that came before 2007. No cover, $1 off well drinks for women before midnight, 21+.



-You know I recommend not going into the city on weekends anymore. However, I think that I have come up with a plan to do that and have fun: go to the heart of darkness, into the beast of the belly, hit up a mega-club in the Meatpacking District! I know what you're thinking: have you gone mad, Jack? No, no I have not. This is a brilliant strategic move, as you will go where they least expect you and you expect to have the least fun. Thankfully, you have allies waiting to make your night rad in the form of the Top Billin' party that Project Matt, Nicole Nelch, Yossi C and C. Dedan and others throw every Friday. Tonight's is a good one, as The Rub's DJ Ayres is joined by Turntable Lab's Lloydski for a night of dancefloor Email topbillinfridays@gmail.com for guestlist, 21+.



You can also head downstairs for Michael T's Pornography party in the basement, as it's look like a good one with Jimmy Edgar from Warp Records spinning. Hell, you also get Melody Nelson and Ole from Diesel and Raw, rsvp at the going.com site for free entry.



-There's also GBH's Robot Rock party at Le Royale (21 7th Ave South), which features a guest DJ set by Fanny of Fannypack. He should provide a nice change-up at this rock party, hopefully bring a little bass to the kids. There's also TKOmri, who will spin robot rock and electro, along with residents Dimitry!!! and Alex English. Email list@gbh.tv to get on the list for free admission, $10 otherwise, 21+.



-Finally, down in the Lower East Side, it's a new party called Deprogram at Revolver (210 Rivington btwn Pitt and Ridge) I haven't heard much out of this club since the summer, hopefully this is a sign that they are going to put on some good parties again. The Art After Midnight guys, Chris Alker and Sushi Steve, are the residents and they are joined by June D of White Dove and various other parties. It should be a fun night of electro rock indie music at a nice bar on the edge of all the horribleness. No cover, 21+.



-Huge night down in Philly, as two of its biggest parties go down tonight. First up, Making Time takes over Pure (1221 St. James Place) with The Teenagers in tow. They've been the belle of the balls in NYC this week, now they can see what a great crowd and city look like. All the other usual suspects will be there, Dave P, Dave Pak, Dave Z, Adam Sparkles, Pink Skull, the Broadzilla crew. Down in the basement, the Rock Tits crew are actually have a live performance tonight, as Dark Horse and the Carousels will play live in the basement. I mean, you know the deal, this one will be insane. Open bar with Sparks and PBR from 9-11, $10, 21+.



-The White Ts White Belts juggernaut continues to reign. Fresh off of the Freeway live performance (and surprise appearances by Beanie Sigel and Peedi) Emynd, Bo Bliz and Dan the Swede have brought in Blaqstarr from Mad Decent to keep the momentum going. I mean, $10, open bar, BYOB, rap, Bmore and bangers, late night until 4 am. Get to the Arts Garage (1511 Parrish St), 21+, Philly's finest here.



-Ugh, thank G-d for Will Eastman or I just wouldn't even be able to look at D.C. I mean, telecom immunity? Are fucking kidding me? Will's Friday night jawn Le Freak at Napoleon (1847 Columbia Rd) should help you feel better about your city, big, diverse crowd enjoying themselves. Get behind this one people! Half-priced champagne from 9-11, house, disco, booty, r&b, rap, awesome.



-This week was the 5th anniversary of Life During Wartime, as Bald Eagle and Mother Hubbard started their little dance party on January 29, 2003. Fast forward 5 years and LDW is all grown up. They've hosted everyone from Soulwax/2 Many DJs, The Rapture, James Murphy, Bloc Party and ton more rad bands and DJs. Head out to the Darkroom (2210 W. Chicago Ave) to celebrate one of Chicago's best parties with the OGs, Bald Eagle and Mother Hubbard. Jessica of the band Office is a special guest DJ, email rsvp@enpriseentertainment.com to get in on the VIP Bushmill's open bar from 9-11. Go to the going.com site and let them know you are coming, it's free before 11pm, $5 after, 21+. Happy anniversary LDW!



-Wow, here's a super rad party in Minneapolis, the Hotel party at The Kitty Kat Klub (315 14th Ave SE) I'm not sure if it's a regular thing or what, but who cares? Live for the moment. Minneapolis' own Jonathan Ackerman and Dan Cruse is joined by amazing Max Pask of the Stop Progress party and 205 on Friday nights, it's gonna be cosmic in there. Keep your ears open, there may be an afterparty. No cover, 21+.



-The Loaded party in San Fran has a great tagline - Love Music Fuck Genres. It also has a great line-up with We Are Wolves playing their dancerock live, Kompakt's Tobias Thomas spinning minimal, Jeffrey Paradise and Audorock giving you everything else you need. Get to the Rickshaw Stop (155 Fell St) for the festivities, $10, doors at 10pm, 18+. Down with genres!



-In LA, it's the return of the Rockognized vs Hush Hush party, as it looks like a good one. Classix, Royal Rumble, Dan Oh and Damager will spin at the Abacot Gallery (970 N. Broadway Suite 201) It should be a good time for those looking for something a little different than the cloub scene out there. $5, 18+, all kinds of music, awesome flier!



-Or head to Safari Sam's (5214 Sunset Blvd) for another head-to-head party, as Blow Up LA vs Le Disko clash tonight. Keith Wilson and Anne Lee present, Keith 2.0, Anne Lee, DJ 19 a.k.a. Young Sunn and DJ (N) spin, Shadowscene is taking photos and you will be dancing and drinking. Free before 10:30 with flier, 18+, cheap drinks, doors at 10.



-In Santa Ana, the Mute Fridays party at Proof Bar (215 N. Broadway) has their biggest guest yet, Peter of Peter, Bjorn and John. Dude DJs quite a bit, so he should be worth checking out as opposed a lot of the band dude DJs out there. It's also a Steve Aoki album release party as well, the residents Clifford Lidell, Legit, Ben N and Rockberry have taken it up a notch tonight. Email rsvp@mute97.com for $5 entry, 21+.

HeartsRevolution & Lauren Flax - CYOA

HEARTSREVOLUTION, "CYOA! (Lauren Flax remix)" (YSI link)

Okay, here's a quick one that I wanted get out there, really excited to see this one in my inbox. It brings together a lot of my favorites, Iheartcomix Records, HEARTSREVOLUTION and Lauren Flax, all rising stars who deserve a bigger audience.

HEARTSREVOLUTION is a New York City-based duo, Leyla Sefai and Ben Pollock, who were first known for the Heartschallenger lifestyle brand and Ice Cream Truck, which they drove to various galleries, parties and events to show off their favorite things in art, music, whatever. Oh, and ice cream, they have ice cream! They've released two limited edition records, including a split 6" with the Crystal Castles, a great choice and good comparison for those looking for a signpost.

They are now releasing their first 12" record on Franki Chan and Travis Hayden's Iheartcomix label for their song "Choose Your Own Adventure." The original mixes punk with electro, it's actually really good, hard to quite classify. It doesn't have the pace or energy of punk or the new electro stuff, although it draws from both. I'm super excited to post up the Lauren Flax remix, someone super talented whose remixes sound unique and different each time. Imagine that, remixes that aren't cookie cuttered, but are actually sensitive to the song! On this one, Flax has stretched out the original and turned it epic with gorgeous strings. I imagine this version playing at the climax scene of some George Clooney political thriller, only the big screen can hold this one. Just as importantly, she has given it a more consistent, thumping beat and cut the vocals down to make the whole thing flow. Excellent stuff.

Check out their myspace page, as it looks like they and the ice cream truck will be touring the globe in the coming months, including Vegas, SXSW, WMC and Europe. Make sure to cop the official 12" when it drops net month, support good people doing good things. Lots of a great remixes, including one from Brodinski, we'll keep you updated on this one.