by SCOTT C

So on top of talking to SP in this week's paper, I had the pleasure of sitting through a private screening last Friday down at Peripheria Productions. Along with director Yanick Latourneau and producer Diego Briceno, I had a first look at their new documentary, Chronique urbaine, which stars SP (Kamenga Mbikay) and Yvon Krevé in a close look at their struggle to survive as independent hip hop artists in Quebec. Not satisfied with cranking out copycat rap that imitates our neighbours to the south, the film (in French with English subtitles) captures the raw passion of the two French MCs as they try to make headway in an industry climate that is anything but welcoming. Filmed over a three-year period, this slice of life is a welcome departure from all the "reality" bullshit that most of us are used to these days, painting a poignant and personal picture of both artists. I highly recommend you see this flick when it opens on August 1 at Ex-Centris.

This Saturday, July 26, you can check out Sans Pression, Yvon Kreve, Muzion, les Architekts, 83, Kulcha Connection, Vai, Stratège and Cobna at le Medley for l'Underground Contre-Attakk 3. A nice plus includes an appearance by France's top-ranked DJ Cut Killer, flown in special for the hoopla. Also on the bill that night are DJs Blast, Manspino, Red Dredd and of course Ray Ray.

Next Tuesday, July 29, marks the second anniversary of Rockdeep over at Saphir, and not only will they be serving up the barbecued goods but they've invited Ms. B, DJ Kobal and myself to conduct things for the evening. These guys have got a good thing going, and you better come ready to dance, 'cause that's the way it is! For $5, you also get a live performance from Rawgged MC (happy B-day, Diegal!) and the ManishMaMaz (?).

Those of you ready to check out a music journal with Montreal ties and an international focus should check out www.metronomic-family.com. Just when you thought you were up

on all the next shit coming out, Metronomic-Family makes you feel silly, and schools you all at the same time. There's all sorts of resources here, including charts, interviews, radio shows, booking and more. You'll see what I'm talking about.

Seven reasons my mic sounds nice:
1. King Geedorah "Next Levels" (Big Dada)
2. Kamau "Jacob Two Two" (Creation Company)
3. Larry Gold feat. Kindred "All That You Are" (BBE)
4. LAL "2 See Love" Grassroots remix 12" (Public Transit)
5. Marvin Gaye "Symphony" (Columbia)
6. Dudley Perkins "Falling" (Stones Throw)
7. Gangstarr "Put Up Or Shut Up" (Virgin)

Age is the gauge of fools… fathead@videotron.ca

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