Old school review

by SCOTT C

Montreal soul singer Slim Williams is probably feeling pretty good right now. His brand new album, Pulse of the Planet, will be available exclusively on iTunes as of Oct. 2, showing up in stores in early 2008. Slim got some help from Montreal artists like drummer Max Sansalone, saxophonist Dan

Martel and vocalists Kim Richardson, Nancy Martinez and Coco Johnson. This soulful pop release from Phi Records also features the vocal talents of Dutch Robinson, the original lead vocalist of the Ohio Players. The video for the first single, “Victorious,” is already doing the rounds on YouTube, and you can check out more about Slim at www.slimwilliams.com.

The Montreal hype machine is working overtime these days, and you’ll be able to see why things are about to get hectic on Oct. 4 at Club Soda when Pop Montreal presents a showcase for label on the rise, Fool’s Gold. Our man A-Trak, Kid Sister, DJ Mehdi (from the Ed Banger crew), Kavinsky, Nick Catchdubs and even the Cool Kids will all be on the same bill. If you’ve been following the power moves of any or all of the names in this group, this is a party you should not miss. Kind of makes you wonder what happened to Audio Research, no? Keep your eyes and ears open.

The Afro-funk and Latin vibes of New York City seven-piece Kokolo touch down at the Goods this Saturday, Sept. 29. No strangers to Montreal, Kokolo ripped into the crazy audience with an explosive set the last time they rolled through, and this time out should be more of the same. Tickets are $12 at the door, with the whole get-down kicking off at 10:30 p.m.

Speaking of getting down, some of the DJs responsible for bringing a wealth of black music to a generation of Montreal clubbers in the ’80s are getting back together to do it one more time. The Checkers Reunion Party is going down Sunday, Oct. 7 at the Main, and is already promising to revisit every last little bit of the old school, R&B, soca, reggae, rap, Miami booty, classic house and even slow jamz that were regular fixtures at the legendary Montreal nightspot Checkers. Thanks to people like owner Peter, DJ Everton Green, Brooklyn Bob, LDG, True Blue and Tony D’Carlos, Checkers was a hub for black music in Montreal from 1981 to 1989. The reunion brings backs DJs Butcher T, D’Professor, DJ Majess and True Blue for this very special event. Tix are $12 in advance and available at Off the Hook, Princessa and AAA Records. And although it says “25 and older NO KIDS!!!” plain as day right on the flyer, you’ll probably want to check this anyways. Sounds like the ultimate old school party.

Lastly, can’t forget belated birthday wishes for the fabulous Ms. B, and my man Claudio, who I’ve always suspected is wise beyond his years. Make this year count!

Take it to the bank... fathead@videotron.ca