by SCOTT C

Well, after five years of serious music, it appears that DJ Andy Williams has decided to step down from his position as elder statesman for our very own Brass Knuckles Fridays at Blizzarts. If you’ve heard this man play, then you know he is a one-of-a-kind selector with the deepest love for jazz, funk, soul, reggae and Afro-Latin vibes. Unfortunately for us, this teacher, filmmaker and music collector will be spinning in the BK’s regular rotation for the last time this Friday, Feb. 14. On a lighter note though, the same night includes a belated celebration for Simahlak’s birthday, as well as a special Valentine’s portion of the evening dedicated to the slow jam. I already know this night is going to be one for the books so don’t miss.

Anyone who’s been following the Canadian version of Popstars might have seen our very own X-Wam beatboxing his way to the next round. I’m not sure dude can sing (mainly because I only saw the one show) but I did hear Erica Ehm telling the other judges that they had to encourage him not to beatbox in the upcoming round so that his popstar presence could be properly gauged (!). You can check out X-Wam doing what he does best with his beat-boxing crew Tha Shadowboxerz when they perform at Café Campus on Feb. 21 with Patrick Batemen. The tax is $5 and doors are at 9 p.m. No popstars allowed!

Finally made it down to Salon Daome (141 Mont-Royal E.) for DJ Uzi’s weekly Soulmeka night last Saturday, and was very pleased to find a nice, hardwood-floored, one-room loft with all kinds of people dancing to the soulful sounds of Fred Everything. Exactly what I needed, and I will definitely be back for more. One question though - who was that girl stinking up the microphone over the last few songs Fred played? This girl does not make it to the next round.

You got it, Helene! Oakland/L.A. crew Living Legends are doing a show at Aria on Friday, Feb. 21. The Creative Differences Tour also boasts Eyedea & Abilities, Atmosphere, 2Mex, Xoloanxinxo & Busdriver, Mystik Journeymen, Aesop, Sunspot Jones and more. Tix are $15 and this all-ages show starts at 7 p.m.

On the horizon, I’m happy to report that MTL hip hop group Specifics has scheduled another live performance for the stage at Tokyo on March 12. These dudes are worth a look if you don’t know, but you will soon. Also down the road in March is another dancehall blowout with master selector Tony Matterhorn, Baby Blue Soundcrew, DJ Kane and Lovezone - at Club Med World!? Stay tuned. :

Seven reasons Andy Williams is “the Teacha”:
1. Oneness of Juju “African Rhythms” (Strut)
2. Lowell Fulsom “Tramp” (Quality)
3. John Klemmer “Free Soul” (Chess)
4. Cymande “Bra” (JDR)
5. Cannonball Adderly “Walk Tall” (Fantasy)
6. Skull Snaps “It’s a New Day” (Charley)
7. Edwin Birdsong “Rapper Dapper Snapper” (Salsoul)

So close and far away… incubator@hiphopsite.com

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