by RAF KATIGBAK

Sunday nights are traditionally a day of rest. According to Genesis (the book, not the band), on the seventh day the Big Guy took a break. But, suppose instead of resting, God said, "Get a bunch of friends together and punch the shit out of each other, and then have a DJ dance party after with drinks and bands and stuff."

Well, I must say that if He had said that, then He would look upon la Sala Rossa this Sunday, March 23, and be pleased. Starting at 2 p.m., Mile End's Blue Cat Boxing will feature three-round "competitive sparring/exhibition" match-ups between guys and gals who train at the club. After 9 p.m., the whole thing turns into a party with DJs T'cha and Stephen "Soundbwoy" Legari. All-day tix are $12 and $5 for just the after party. I can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday (and I'll fight anyone who says otherwise).

Tonight, March 20, drop by Foufounes Électriques for their weekly drum & bass night Basshunterz (incidentally also the name of my favourite fishing show). Residents DJ Sleek, Fictional and Stalker will be on hand to provide the beats and since it's a ladies night, humans of the female persuasion get special treatment. Word!

Also tonight, catch Courtney Wing and his band (which includes lap steel, mandolin, accordion and double bass) at the Casa del Popolo. From blues and bluegrass to country and folk, Courtney's soulful lyricism provides a welcome break for beat-weary partygoers. Funnily enough, several members of his band bear an uncanny resemblance to members of the Finnish '80s cover band sensation Fantasy. Speaking of which…

Fantasy will be playing a very special show on Saturday, March 22, where they will announce: "Toto's back! (is not as hairy as our bass player Ron's)." Indeed Toto, the legendary lead singer of Dynasty (the cover band that Fantasy is covering, got it?) is back for a special one-night-only engagement. Thrill to the sound of the not-so-forgotten '80s with this high-octane musical mind-fuck featuring special guest DJs Long Duk Dong and Roxy Moron. It all goes down for only $5 at 24 Mont-Royal W. (corner St-Laurent), suite 801. Be there!

Arriving from Miami on Saturday, Fred Everything will step off the plane and head straight for Soulmeka at Salon Daomé (141 Mont-Royal E.) at which time Everything will delight listeners with some of the freshest new unreleased choons picked up while down at South Beach. Don't miss it!

Finally, don't miss the release of White Is Pure 2, the first house mix from Barbara Brown (aka Misstress Barbara), this Tuesday, March 25, at Time, 997 St-Jacques E., $5 at the door. :

Party for your right to fight! Diskoakimbo@sympatico.ca

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