by SCOTT C

Known for mixing up your favourite joints from the '80s with a hearty helping of dancehall, commercial hip hop, Miami bass and beats of the moment from Brazil's favelas, Florida's Diplo has attracted some intrigued bystanders, including Big Dada Records, plus a throng of people ready for a proper get-down. While his Hollertronix parties in his present hometown Philadelphia are growing to mythical proportions, Diplo's debut LP Florida shows the burgeoning producer in deep concentration, in direct contrast to the anything-goes attitude of the Hollertronix manifesto.

"I was into Miami bass, freestyle and hip hop when I was growing up in Florida," he explains, "but I get inspired by regional underground scenes and all the stuff people are doing out there." Perhaps this is why songs like "Diplo Rhythm" featuring Sandra Melody and Vybes Kartel blend perfectly with others like "Lost," and "Indian Thick Jawns" with P.E.A.C.E from Freestyle Fellowship. Diplo is listening for something else, and would like us to follow along.

While the Hollertronix mix tapes have made their way from coast to coast, Diplo hasn't been far behind while touring with RJD2. His Favela on Blast mix is getting a lot of attention as well, one of the first to export the gritty Brazilian bass hybrid that has caught the attention - and asses - of so many. "I didn't know what to expect when I went to Brazil, but we hooked up with a photographer who got us access to the favelas and then everything fell into place. The music is just too hot."

You can be sure that there's gonna be some favela funk in the house this Saturday night when Diplo heads up a proper launch party for his new LP. Let's hope the spirit of Hollertronix decides to descend on Montreal, even if it is only for one night.

With P-Love and DJ Luv at the main Hall on Saturday, Nov. 20, 9 p.m., $10 (first 100 tickets receive a free CD)

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