by SCOTT C

Rolled into Théâtre St-Denis the other night to say what-up to K-OS. The talented Toronto boy did his thing on the big stage, complete with acoustic guitarist and tabla accompaniment. Headliner India.Arie came out and did not disappoint her adoring fans by filling the room with a kind of Oprah-like presence, while the music was extra sweet but soulful just the same. K-OS explained that they had just finished their tour with Slum Village and Floetry in the U.S. and unfortunately, we missed out on a great part of the show. We gets no love, like Ricky D. Ricky, who I saw working the block outside the India show, was nice enough to inform me that I’ll be missing the one and only Pete Rock at Aria on Friday, Dec. 27. There’s been a lot of talk about getting Soul Brother No. 1 to make it up to Montreal, and it’s just my luck that I’ll be somewhere down the 401 when he finally reaches. Thanks, Ricky. All interested heads will note that ill-ass producer Nottz will also be in the place that night, along with his sidekick D.M.P. Talk about timing. Aria also pulls out the red carpet on Saturday, Dec. 21, for DJ Jazzy Jeff, as well as Dec. 14 for Little Louie Vega. Big tings a gwan!

If you’ve ever checked out Blizzarts on a Wednesday night, then you’re familiar with the reggae flavours of Champion Sound. Next Wednesday, Dec. 18, the night hosts a special launch for two new books from ECW Press. Shaggy: Doggamuffin Style was written by Champion Sound resident Micah Locilento, while King Jammy’s, written by Toronto reggae historian Beth Lesser, was edited by Micah. Both books are available now. Champion Sound is Andy Williams, Wig, Ms. B and Don Locilento.

I’m not sure how the whole Christmas thing managed to sneak up so quickly this year, but it’s here, and it could get a little hairy. As I mentioned before, I’m going to see my Moms, get pampered, talk shop with Dad and eat like a fool. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish everybody a happy holiday and safe passage. New Year’s is just around the corner, and then we get to do it all over again. Peace. :

Three records to check over the holidays:
1. The Roots Phrenology (MCA)
2. Various The Detroit Experiment (Rope-a-Dope)
3. Lee Fields Problems (Soul Fire)

Sometimes, it’s better to say nothing… incubator@hiphopsite.com

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