by SCOTT C

Those of you out there in the trenches buying records every week might have noticed a slight increase in the availability of new seven-inch vinyl over the last year. While dancehall, reggae, punk and indie rock have always made full use of the format, it seems that more and more labels are deciding to go the 45 rpm route. Why? With major labels sobbing away over low CD sales, file sharing and the inevitable disintegration of the music industry as we know it, some artists and labels are trying to appeal to the discerning buyer, offering them something special in a limited capacity. Oh boy. Others are paying homage to days gone by, when the seven-inch was king and the fat sounds of these little sides carried funk, soul and rock 'n' roll to all corners of the world. Whether it's a gimmick, a novelty or a bona fide, double-sided hit, you're gonna see more of the little guys in the near future. And remember, if you're thinking of pressing a few hundred copies of your first single, consider that 500 12-inch records will set you back about $1,500, while 500 45s require a mere $900 investment. Think about that.

With the 2003 DMC Eliminations on the horizon for June 6, you'd better sign up before the May 21 deadline. Question: When is somebody gonna rip that shit like A-Train and put MTL back on the turntable map? You guys have had lots of time to study DMC, ITF and Tableturns tapes. You all know what you have to come with to compete on an international level, and we know the talent is here - isn't it? DR One and Mana have kept hope alive, providing great pacemakers for each other, but don't let somebody from another province dance into the MTL arena and walk off with the title this year. No way! Head to www.dmccanada.com for more or call 932-5330 for all the info.

Blue Dog introduces its new night, More Fyah More Bashment, as Thursdays serve up reggae, soca, hip hop and R&B with DJs Ms. B and James Bond ($4). Uh oh, more reggae on the Main can only mean one thing - some hot summer nights with great music!

Rockdeep crew BBQ! On Tuesday, May 13, you can join the gang on the terrasse at Saphir for the first BBQ of the season. DJ WHO-Z will be warming up the place with a special selection of old-school hip hop, along with regulars Static, Rated PG and Cheeba. Come at 9 p.m. if you wanna eat! Five bucks.

Sunday, May 18, is the day that dancehall sensation Sean Paul hits town for the Montreal leg of his Dutty Rock Tour. The Metropolis happening is a solid $30 ticket and chances are, if it's not sold out yet, it will be soon. Guests include Quite Sane, Baby Yu, Chhaya and the fabulous Little Thunder.

Take note, people. The address incubator@hiphopsite.com has officially been discontinued. Please send all relevant e-mail to fathead@videotron.ca from now on!

Now is the time… fathead@videotron.ca

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