Seven inches of Kokolo

by SCOTT C

Tonight, Thursday, April 26, Montreal funk, soul, Latin and Afrobeat label Afrokats are throwing a big party to celebrate the release of a new seven-inch featuring the monster grooves of New York’s Kokolo. If you still haven’t had the chance to check out Kokolo’s fully functional live Afrobeat romp, then listen close. They’ll take the stage at les Bobards tonight at 10 p.m., so you know it’s gonna be a tight squeeze in there. The tax is only $8, so make sure you grab some of the Afrokats titles with your extra dough. Funk aficionados keep your eyes peeled for an upcoming Floyd Lawson release on Afrokats as well, bound to be a big record for this summer. These are just a few of the things you can look forward to from this dedicated Montreal label.

Got a note from the Bastid last week, letting me know that I could quiet the angry mob who’ve been waiting for his new mixtape, because the shit is coming out! That’s right. If you have any love in your heart for the dynamic, drunken DJ mastery of the one and only Skratch Bastid, then you should get your hands on Get Up! on May 1. The mix features cuts from visionary Chubb Rock, Eastern philosopher Jorun, the always eloquent UMCs and the dirty love of Amy Winehouse and Ghostface, plus many more. This guy is coming with the one-two punch this week too, not only lacing us with the mixtape, but doing a show at Academy on Friday, April 27 with DJ Numark from Jurassic 5. Well played, Bastid, touché.

Speaking of my rugged rehab girlfriend Amy Winehouse, you should check the line-up for the second Osheaga Music & Arts Festival on September 8 and 9 at Parc Jean-Drapeau, because she’s on the bill. If you were there last year, you know that there’s a lot more to check out besides Smashing Pumpkins and good ‘ol Paolo Nutini, so pay close attention as the full line-up unfolds. Check www.osheaga.com for all the deets.

Looking ahead, looks like Montreal is up for some of that Japanese love with the legendary Shuya Okino from Kyoto Jazz Massive set to play Academy on May 22, with local support from Moonstarr. He’s touring to push his United Legends EP on Especial Records and is worth checking out live in the flesh.

Lastly, the Goods feature Fusionova 021 Records man of action Enrique Domenech, all the way from Barcelona, for your serious dancing pleasure this Saturday, April 28, at la Sala Rossa. Check out the vibes!

Seven reasons Quebec City keeps it ruff, rugged and raw:

1. IAM Saison 5 (Universal)

2. Roma Allstars “In And Out” Aklimatize remix (CDR)

3. The Juju Orchestra Bossa Is Not a Crime (Agogo)

4. Chromeo “Tenderoni” (Turbo)

5. Various Stones Throw Presents Hella International (Stones Throw)

6. RJD2 “Rules for Normal Living” (XL)

7. Rich Medina feat. Sy Smith “Can’t Hold Back” PPP remix (Kindred Spirits)

Speedminton, daddy’s home... fathead@videotron.ca