-- Deejay Starsign News --

My lame SXSW recap

2006-03-19T10:14:00.000-08:00

I had a dayjob this year. Any real Austinite doesn't buy wristabands or badges (if you're lucky, you them shits for free... I wasn't so lucky this year).

So, I mainly hit up the free spots. I checked out a lot of shit, most of it was your usual dirty hair boys looking like Vincent Gallo and girls with cute haircuts checking out each others gear. BTW, my Han Cholo neckpiece was a major hit with all the kiddies.

So here are some of the "tings" I didded:
Fuckemos at Victory Grill outside. Hardcore shit, very fitting for the Vice Party.
There was a dude with a weird alien mask thing going on, walk around like everything was normal.

I standing right next to Lady Sov's tiny thug self at her Vice Magazine performance.
There were lots of technical difficulties. Sov did here thing, unfortunately, the dj couldn't touch his mixer without it killing the sound. Hung out with the recently married Javi and Chia. Later on Larry (Lauretz) and Leslie went back to my crib which was only 2 blocks away and we drank some more with Alan and his out of town friend.

Later that evening...
I was at the Tommie Sunshine/Arthur Baker party at Factory People, but mostly hung outside and shot the shit with Pete from Echobase and his crew. I walked in and Uffie was playing. I find her music annoying, eventhough she is very Huxtable.

I had to leave early so I could make it to the job next day, I heard Arthur Baker didn't play. I heard Har Mar Superstar "shirtslapped" that Feadz guy and told him to get off the decks. Bobby from Boys and Girls Club got in his grill and called him a fat bald asshole or something. Bobby is cool. But that was at another club and an unrelated story, but I ran into Bobby and SuperfuckingCool Craig at FP and they told me the awesomeness.

We went to the Diesel party after that and missed Voxtrot, but saw Editors play (not bad at all). More free beer. Ran into Travis, Daphna, Sean, Al, Tiffany, and a whole bunch of people I can never remember names, but will never forget their faces type shit. Then, the mustached skinny boy Christiane F looking motherfuckers started playing the tootsie roll and dancing like tampons. It's times like this I wish I were a swole hoodrat and bitchslap them on principle alone. White kids get shook when they're around ethnic folk who actually dance to that shit without a trace of irony, but in wonderbread land, geeking out dumb style is okay. Do that shit at the End Up, you chickenshits.

I went home after that (I think)/

Next day:

I hung out at Factory People again for their happy hour where I got to meet one of my favorite NYC DJs, Cosmo Baker. Dude was real cool, glad I got to meet him in person. I still have to listen to the ITMR pt. 2 CD, but it's probably gonna be proper.

FP was full of Austin and Houston minor DJ celebrities (Witnes, Klassen, Chicken George, Nicknack, X-man, Ceeplus, The Are, Zin...) DJ homies are where it's at. Unfortunately, Big Time Smelly wasn't there (or the upandcoming dookie genius, Trent, aka Dayta... who always provides the witty banter and comic relief).

We went over to Victory Grill to catch Lupe Fiaso, but instead, there was a band that sounded like fucking Nickelback (swear to Jesus). Saw superstar photographer Courntey and bounced to check out the Gomi thing at Gomi. I ate a which wich sandwich and Nick is right, that dude does look like Richard Henry aka T25YOV.

Ran into Dagger and Scuba (thanks for the backpack brew fellas), Steve, Rae, Chris Madgod, and the big homie Sean Richards. We drank the beer and jetted to the Misshapes party, but there were only 10 misshapers and 100 5th street steikers.

Bounced to Barcelona where I ran into Tats and Tarek (the ill Lebanese/Brazillian).
Went to the Pig after that and checked out The Rakes. I liked The Rakes. So did the crowd. We missed Moving Units.

I went to bed after that and was gonna go to the free food and free alcohol Femi Kuti thing (Dana gave me a VIP wristband.. which I don't even know if I needed). But it rained and I had to get my records together for a PAID Auditorium Shores evening gig.
I ate some chicken and waffles at Mimi's with Alan, Goyo, Jenn and crew (plus the big dogs, literally) and had to jet to the gig.

I got there and Boyardee was playing, I had to follow. Luckily the rain stopped. It was some New Orleans type show with brass bands, Allen Tousiant, all that jazz (Austines love that shit). I played funk and more funk. I had them little kids dancing boy I tell you. 7 year olds are the shit. I had the moms and older folk getting down too. Yeah dude, I killed it on that bus.

Then, I had some hippie hip hop looking kids getting stupid dumb when I played Cymande and the fucking wind blew my needles off the record (boo to the wind). The power cut out in one of my old ass J Geils Band routines. Left that thing, and went to my homie Miguel's showcase at Longbranch. Ran into Will from Brothers and Sisters and checked out my other homies, The Black Angels, before I had to leave for the afterparty, at which point, I decided to just crash out and do my body a solid.
BTW, Psychic Ills is the SHIT! I felt like some Kenneth Anger/Pink Floyd at Pompeii/Galaxy 500 vibe. Reminded me of high schooling.

too bad I missed: BIG DADDY KANE, Spankrock, Birdy Nam Nam, Animal Collective, MadVillain (fuck).

Lucky Jenny had TTC and Uffie and them stay at her crib. She told me about after parties but my old ass self needs rest.

I told you my recap was lame. Later On Donkey Kong.

Necessary gulliness

2006-03-19T10:01:00.000-08:00

Serge Gainsbourg is in it (so is Donald Pleasance...in a role similar to THX...kinda)
Your liberal ass will enjoy it.

Scott Walker 3

2006-03-18T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's raining, I'm tired from all this SXSW mayhem. This album is perfect for right now.

Hell yeah

2006-03-15T21:55:00.000-08:00

Righteousness

2006-03-07T20:22:00.000-08:00

Man, I wonder how all the pretentious DJ Shadow fans feel about this video. Let the hatering (and weeding out) begin.

In other news, THE (most righteous-uber_splendiferous) ELECTRIC COMPANY DVD is the SHIT! If you really know me, I you know I cut for anything 1970's (the most ass-kicking decade in the history of history).

Recognize.

Block Party

2006-03-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

This movie is too amped. I want that poster, looking all like a flier for a Zulu Nation function circa 1981.

Been pretty late on everything, free time is not as ample as it used to be. Fret not cats and kittens, the next installment of our periodic party where we play all the dirty dance fun music is on Saturday March 11th.

Doors open at 10pm
cover is $3.00 (21 and over)
party till 2am.

Special guests: Cry Blood Apache

Erotic City 3 :: Saturday March 11th

2006-02-28T22:52:00.000-08:00

Update Feb 03-06

2006-02-03T22:46:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy and busy last few weeks.
Here's a recap:

1. I deejayed the Beats of Basquiat party in Houston. Over 5,000 people came out. It was a good time.
2. I moved into a new house. The old place was sort of conservative, the new place gels with my creative spirit.
3. Sandwiches, the weekly at Tambaleo is no longer happening.
4. Erotic City (the periodic dance party by me, Young Adorable and guests) is going well and it seems like people are definitely getting into the spirit of what we're playing.
5. I got a new design job. I deejayed for 3 years straight as my primary source of income. I discovered I'm actually an artist that happens to deejay as opposed to a deejay that likes art. I don't enjoy playing as often as I did. I'd rather be more selective and take more risks without having to worry about paying bills and dealing with lame girls who want to hear the Laffy Taffy (yes, this is the part where some of you will call me a snob or a hater... you're probably right, but chances are you're not)
6. I will finally begin producing some material but I will start out with remixes.
7. I am also getting back into the paint mode.
8. Been playing the guitar a lot more and I may play out once we get our chops together (too many influences, gotta focus)
9. DJ Ayres mix on Lemon-Red is beyond good.
10. Diplo's mix from the Guggenheim is also nice (I'm not a fan of the whole Baile Funk thing, but his remixes are on point).

Happy New Year

2006-01-06T11:25:00.000-08:00

I just want to say thanks to all who came out and get down to the sounds at Parrish and Tambaleo (if you were there, it was off the meter). Big shout to all my homies and fly girlies. Peace to Aaron and Jude from Bastard Jazz rolling through from NYC and Cleveland. Peace to Hobo D doing things, but a big gasface goes out to Nate from Whisky Bar for accusing me of something I didn't do, being a complete asshole about the situation and getting me vexed. I'm not setting foot in that spot again. Too bad cuz Bart and Klassen are my homies, but one bad apple...

Feeling This

2005-12-30T14:39:00.000-08:00

You can have that other middle-school, irony, wackness.
I rock to this. Learn something.

Macca

2005-12-28T23:54:00.000-08:00

The Beatles is my favorite band of all time. I've listened to their music so many times and even though I know their music inside out, I still get a thrill out of their songs. I like some more than others, but the ones I like, I REALLY like. There are few bands that I can listen to that can evoke the same kind of emotions I get when I listen to Beatles music. Basically, all those people who say dumb shit like "The Beatles is the most over-rated band of alltime" can eat a big fat ________. Those poor souls are just too dumb to know any better.

John and George were my favorite Beatles, and I never really gave Paul that much attention until recently, when I realized he penned most of my favorite Beatle songs. Maybe it was his personality or his ugly haircuts when he was doing the Wings thing, but I overlooked him as a solo artist in favor of John.

Upon further inspection, it turns out I like a lot of Paul's solo stuff too. The stuff from the 70's is good, the stuff later on is a little spotty. My friend Miguel told me that Macca had teamed up with Nigel Godrich and that his latest release (Chaos and Creation in the Backyard) was real nice.

I've listened to most of it and this is the first post 70s Macca album I can listen to without skipping tracks. It's good, real good and I gotta give up to Paul for making a really good record at this stage in his career.

In other news, I just heard that The Killers, that pussy ass band from Las Vegas, did a cover of Morrissey's "Why Don't You Find Out For Yourself". I haven't heard it but chances are that it'll suck. I'm curious to hear it though.

In even other other news, I'm still not sold on The Animal Collective. Maybe I haven't heard the right music or I'm too old for this kind of music. Maybe there is something out there that I do like, but what I've heard sounds like some avant garde bullshit.

Something Nerdy, Something cool.

2005-12-19T17:22:00.001-08:00

SNL rap about Narnia. The homie Walker told me about this. It's pretty funny (who knew Chris Parnell could pull it off?) That new Jewish guy with the Welcome Back Kotter hair is the hippest dude on that show since Farrell (Fuck Jimmy Falon).

This young artist out of Houston is on the come up. Check out his site (highly recommended).

I want this record

2005-12-18T17:33:00.000-08:00

Twins?

2005-12-16T18:25:00.000-08:00

James Lavelle

RJD2

Zach Galifianakis

Ryan Dunn

BTW, they got a portion of Thursday Afternoon by Brian Eno (A "video painting") at iFilm.com. Check it out.

Hero Worship

2005-12-08T13:47:00.000-08:00

We all have or have had heroes.
When I was growing up, there were a few people who I looked up to and admired with awe and respect. James Dean, Jim Morrison, Johnny Marr, and the biggest one of all, John Lennon.

John was my idol. I thought he was the definition of cool when I was a teen. Yeah, there were more contemporary bands that I was into, but above all, The Beatles has been my favorite group of all time (especially Rubber Soul to Let It Be era).

The early Beatles stuff was poppy and a little cheesy, but listening to songs like "A Day In The Life, I'll Be Back, Yer Blues, Mother Nature's Son, Across The Universe, etc...", it made me realize that in an age where pop music was plastic and "naive", The Beatles were not only commercially successful, but they took chances and were not afraid of failing. The redefined what rock and roll music was and changed the landscape in not only music, but youth culture.

I read of a survey done recently where less than half of the young people surveyed (less than 25 years old) knew who John Lennon was when they showed him his photo. A lot of them remembered him as that musician that was shot in New York. What a fucking lot of complete idiots. John Lennon was at the forefront of important figures in music who made history.

Chuck Berry, Fats Domino, Buddy Holly,Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Lou Reed and David Bowie were all major figures in rock and roll history. John Winston Lennon is in that elite group of pioneers and influencers. They provided the mold for everything that came after them.

25 years ago today, that piece of shit excuse for a human being (who I won't even call by his name) shot and killed John Lennon for no apparent reason. Good going, you miserable son of a bitch. John Lennon was only 40 years old, but his influence and his passion still lives on.

It's Peanut Butter Jelly Time

2005-12-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

I was watching a commercial for the new season of Family Guy and Brian the Dog busted out into a song dressed in a banana suit. It was a "what the hell?" moment, but pretty funny.

I had no idea it was from a flash video. Check it.

Family Guy Peanut Butter Jelly Time
Original Flash video

another architecture magazine

2005-12-04T22:14:00.000-08:00

mark magazine by the makers of frame

Vry Ncssry

2005-12-04T20:28:00.000-08:00

Feeling This

2005-11-29T20:54:00.000-08:00

and this too

booyakashah.

French Disco/House

2005-11-02T22:46:00.000-08:00

I remember the days when I was very indifferent to any sort of House music. Then I discovered the catchy sounds coming from France and it was on. I came across this little list someone put on amazon.co.uk. It's kinda fresh, check it out if you're curious about any sort of French Disco/House.

Done By The Forces of Nature

2005-10-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

Done By The Forces of Nature by The Jungle Brothers is one of my favorite hip hop albums of all time. Unfortunately they were outshined by De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest (future members of the Native Tongues). Native Tongues were changing things back in the early 1990s. "Beyond This World", "Beeds on a String","Tribe Vibes" (gotta love that Bee Gees sample) and "What U Waitin 4?" are all classics in my book.

MoreTempo update.
Mark your calendars.
Friday November 4th at Copa with special guests Manny and Bigface.

REDRUM, REDRUM, REDRUM...

2005-10-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

The Shining scared the hell out of me when I first watched it. I was really creeped out by the Grady Sisters, and Danny Torrence talking all weird-like in his "Tony" voice.

I feel like I'm about to see some evil ghosts everytime I watch that film.

But, "The Shining in 30 seconds, re-enacted by bunnies", is pretty funny.

Here's another Shining spoof for you to peep.

Alan Braxe: Upper Cuts

2005-09-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

I'm really digging this compilation of "French Disco" cuts. Highly recommend you get your copy today.

I LOVE HIP HOP!

2005-09-26T19:00:00.000-07:00

Flash, Kane, LL, Biggie and Ice-T are getting honored tonight for the VH1 Hip Hop Honors thing.

Flash is one of my biggest influences. Superrappin' is one of my Top Five Hip Hop songs of all time. Kane and Scoob Lover, jeez, forget about it ("get on the mic, cuz you know you eat chicken"!!! what!). I get chills watching my heroes together in one setting. Hip Hop is to me like Rock and Roll was for my parents. They grew up on The Beatles and Stones. I grew up on Run DMC, LL, Public Enemy, BDP (while at the same time I was listening to The Cure and The Smiths).

Before the Beatles, there was Chuck Berry, Fats Domino, Little Richard. Before Run DMC, there was The Fearless Four, Furious 5, Bambaataa, Flash, Cold Crush Brothers. This music means so much to me and no matter where I may stand with music these days, hip hop will always bring me out of my seat, put a smile on my face and a fist in the air.

One Love,
Strsgn

Aleem: Release Yourself

2005-09-23T12:11:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling this song right now.

Marvin The Paranoid Android

2005-09-21T23:13:00.000-07:00

I just saw the HGTTG. Marvin rocks! If Morrissey was a robot, he'd be Marvin.

Goog times last night

2005-09-21T22:38:00.000-07:00

I spun some good records with my homeslice Manny, met Rob Garza and Rob Meyers of Thievery Corporation fame (I'm a longtime fan), DJ Klever (DMC Champion) and one of the directors of The Ramones documentary "End Of The Century". What a cool night.

Here's a pic of me and Klever

taken by this dude here...

and another great shot of the smelly one

Beatfanatic / MoreTempo / Music I spin

2005-09-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

So, I find it increasingly difficult to describe the kind of music I spin when I deejay. I was raised mostly on rock and new wave in the mid 80s (The Smiths, New Order, The Cure, U2, etc...). I didn't get into deejaying until 1996-ish and even then, it was mostly just for fun. I think b/c I wasn't raised on hip hop (like some of my friends) I tended to take chances by playing a combination of music, but in a hip hop manner.

I admired people like Pete Rock, Eric B and Rakim, EPMD, Tribe Called Quest, Run DMC, etc... so when I was starting to play records, I tried to find the original records they sampled and mixed it in with rock, disco, new wave etc...

I discovered Ninjatune.net in 1997 and it was no turning back after that. I noticed that Europeans as well as the Japanese really create the best form of sample-based music b/c they tend to to treat it with respect and they have a different twist, a different ear when producing. Take Jazzanova, Jazztronik, Quantic, or Seiji for example. They are killing it with their sound.

Sweden in particular is really kicking ass in the production dept. When I went there earlier this year, I was really surprised to find out how deep into rare disco they were. One of my favorite Swedish producers is Beatfanatic. His last record, "Adventures in the Land of No-Fi" was full of playable tracks it was one of my favorite records that year.

This year, he released "The Gospel According To...", and it does not disappoint. He takes us on a journey through Latin, funk, disco, hip hop and even a hint of early techno. It's like he took the best aspects of Detroit, NYC's Paradise Garage days and 90's hip hop and gave us a dance-oriented / academic portrait of American soul music from the last 30 years.

Beatfanatic is a deejay's dream come true, especially when you're looking for that nice sophisticated dance record but don't want too many vocals or are looking for a more raw sound than the San Fran suave house.

I throw the MoreTempo events with my homeslice Nicknack and we play an assortment of beats ranging from afro-latin to house to hip hop to dance punk. For those who have no idea what this mixture of music sounds like, I highly recommend picking up either of Beatfanatic's two records. The latest one is my favorite record of the moment (with DangerDoom coming in at number 2).

I normally call my music soultronica, eclectic beats and jazzy grooves. I tend to play anything with a good bass line and nice drums. The influence ranging from Marvin Gaye to "Off The Wall" to Mantronix to Cinematic Orchestra is all there. Again, pick up Beatfanatic, you will not be dissappointed.

Scion = STRAIGHT CORNY!!!!

2005-08-25T22:41:00.000-07:00

Bavu is one of the BEST MCs in Texas. I strongly believe that it's just a matter of time before dude gets the recognition he deserves. Read the following. This shit shows how phony Scion is, but we already knew that with their whole SafeHop mentality.

The following was taken from HoustonSoReal.Blogspot.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Toyota Scion Uses Hip-Hop To Sell Their Cars… Then Censors Hip-Hop Artist.

TEXAS, August 24, 2005. Austin based rapper Bavu Blakes was pleasantly surprised yesterday (Tuesday, August 23rd, 2005) when he got the call from Jay Cortez of Inform Ventures, LLC (info below) announcing that he had been selected from a pool of over 2,000 submissions as a Top Ten Finalist in the Scion: Nextup contest.

According to Allhiphop.com, the “Scion: Nextup contest is holding it's second annual emcee contest which gives unsigned emcees the chance to win a $50,000 marketing deal from Scion. Judges, DJ Premier, Green Lantern and Sean Cane will filter through the applicants to find the ten best. The online contest will then feature the top 10 underground artists original songs on the Scion: Nextup site for visitors to vote on. The emcee(s) with the highest number of votes will win. Prizes include $5000 in cash, the opportunity to perform at Scion events and a fully-produced music video for their winning song.”

Bavu Blakes received an affidavit stating that he was in the Top Ten – chosen by DJ Premier, Green Lantern and Sean Cane, and that voting would commence, online, Monday August 29th on the website www.scionnextup.com.

Today, he received a call, again from Jay Cortez, stating that he had been removed from the contest because of the political lyrics in his song “Black Gold.” The lyrics in question are:

1. "Now Bush and bin Laden got so much they rotten"
2. "Texas home of the real death row"
3. "What'd we really go to Iraq fo?"

In reference to line #2, Bavu Blakes was asked if he was referring to the Los Angeles based company Death Row Records.

While we understand that any corporate entity has the right to include whoever it wants in their promotions and marketing strategies, we find it quite funny that a company so hell bent on using hip-hop to promote it’s products would have the audacity to censor an artist.

Inform Ventures, the company working with Scion on this promotion has an interesting mission statement on it’s website www.inform-ventures.com:

“Our environment is in transition. Information outlets have increased, forming a new infrastructure for the next generation. We create messages compatible with this new infrastructure then disseminate that message through our media and promotions network.”

And they censor the words of the people who they are presumably trying to reach.

Scion as a company has garnered a lot of praise and has also taken a lot of heat over the past couple of years for their co-opting of hip-hop music and culture to sell their cars. Does this action prove the nay sayers right? Find out for yourself. We feel as though Scion and Inform Ventures need to be taken to task for their decision. If they are so down with the streets and hip-hop culture then why are they trying to censor one of it’s strongest voices?

Chuck D once said that hip-hop is the CNN of the streets. If Scion and Inform Ventures can’t handle that, maybe they should just leave it alone.

We’d love to talk with you about this situation. Please feel free to call or email myself, Matt Sonzala at any time. Contact information for Bavu Blakes and Jay Cortez also follows.

Matt Sonzala, Pushermania Promotions
Email: matt at damagecontrolradio.org

Bavu Blakes
Email: word at bavublakes.com

Jay Cortez
Inform Ventures, LLC
3361 Glendale Blvd., Suite 1
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Direct: 323.906.0728
Fax: 323.906.0725
Email: jay at inform-ventures.com

MoreTempo 3

2005-08-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 2nd @ Flamingo Cantina
Me and the Polish Terror-wrist on the wheels of steel (ooohhh!)

Meanwhile...
Listen to the man, the myth, the legend, Jazztronik
do a guest mix on Milk.

Just an update

2005-08-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

So, what the deal?

Not much. I'm working on the design section of the site.
I also saw that the layout design I did for DJ Dojo is in a few stores.
more later...

What's rocking my iPod / 1200s

2005-08-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

American Analog Set: Hard To Find
Air: Premiers Symptomes
Z-Ro feat. Devin: The Mule
Gorillaz: Dirty Harry
B-52s: Mesapotamia
Death Cab For Cutie: Title and Registration
Kiss: Strutter
Metallica: Seek and Destroy
Thievery Corporation: Warning Shots 12"/Heart Is a Lonely Hunter 12"
Beatfanatic: Gospel According To
Daft Punk: Face To Face / Short Circuit
Talking Heads: Born Under Punches / This Must Be The Place
The Clash: The Leader / Rudie Can't Fail
Luna: Bonnie and Clyde
The Hollies: The Air That I Breathe
The Beatles: Yer Blues
T.Rex: Mambo Sun / Buick MacKane / Jeepster
Gary Glitter: Do You Wanna Touch?

DJ Starsign VS DJ Shadow

2005-07-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

DJ Starsign VS DJ Shadow

The mix is available in two parts at www.parakitachi.com
Get it while you can. It's composed of songs produced by DJ Shadow as well as songs sampled. I don't know how long it's gonna be up, (I think I exceeded my space limit) so get it now.

PS -- Thanks to Joost at solesides.com for mentioning the mix on his site!

"I ain't never been called ugly ugly..."

2005-07-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

Actually, I've been told I look:
Turkish
Italian
Greek
Indian (South Asian Indian)
Jewish
Iranian
Argentinian

But in this pic with my homeboy Mel,
I look like a girl. I got pretty eyes.

MoreTempo Thanks You

2005-07-04T14:57:00.000-07:00

So, Nick and I pulled off our first party since the pretty lukewarm "Superdiscobreakin'" thing we did at Tambaleo 2 years ago (or what feels like 2 years). I guess charging a cover at a bar that is free was a bad idea, so we regrouped and came up with this new party called MoreTempo.

Here's the back story; Nicknack and I are both products of sample-driven hip hop music in the form of BDP, De La Soul, Gangstarr, Pete Rock and CL Smooth, Main Source, etc... Because most of the songs we listened to were composed of (somewhat) obscure jazz, rock and funk samples, we started buying records from those genres and becamed immersed in music that was independent of radio radio popularity. We met while at the university radio station and Nick got a hip hop show, where I was the "host/raregroove and old school selector". Nick went on to become a turntablist / producer, while I focused my sites on being an eclectic deejay that was soon labled as a downtempo DJ for years.

Between the two of us, we had a ton of records that we loved, but had fallen out of favor with the younger "club going" generation introduced to hip hip via Tupac, Snoop, Mystical and Eminem. I think the only sample-based hip hop they know is "It Takes Two", "Bust a Move" and "Wild Thing" (not exactly hallmarks of hip hop, even if they are this generation's "Louie Louie").

So we found ourselves in a predicament where we were playing quality, soulful music for audiences who only wanted to hear the latest 50 Cent record, "that Hey Ya song", etc... I remember one time Nick was playing "Spottie Ottie Dopalicious" and this girl asked him if he could play some Outkast as the song was playing (in case you don't know, "Spottie Ottie Dopalicious" is an Outkast song). That beats all my countless stories of drunk wannabe Real World girls asking me to play hip hop when I was playing "All For One" or something like that.

Anyway, I had become increasingly annoyed with cheesy audiences who only want to hear "frat-boy hip hop" and quit my DJ residencies. Nick and I were steadfast in playing music that was outside of the box, but still danceable and enjoyable (it's not like we were gonna be playing experimental trainspotter music). We live in Austin Texas, a town with a rep for being open-minded, independent and musical, yet, the downtown scene is dominated by club hip hop. I wanted to do an event that reminded me of Austin before it became a mini-Dallas/Houston hub of drunken radio robots. I had mentioned this concept of doing a monthly or semi-quarterly event to play to the old school Austin heads that normally avoid downtown like a plague.

So we finally had our first MoreTempo event last night at Flamingo Cantina (a bar that is perfect for what we are trying to do). Nick and I were on 4 turntables and we started off the night playing some vintage Reggae, Rocksteady and Dub, progressed into some soul, jazz and funk, switched gears into hip hop, brazillica, Euro "sophistifunk" (aka soultronica), disco, retro, and some RnB, mashups, new wave, 60s rock, electro, grime and live remixes splashed in the mix.

Here is a rundown of some of the artists I remember from last nite (in random order):
Gorillaz, Missy Elliot, Lady Sovereign, The Clash, Grandmaster Flash, Outkast, Four Tet, Jay Z, Destiny's Child, Amerie, Talking Heads, The Bravery, Beck, Man Parrish, Cybotron, Kraftwerk, Biggie, The Zombies, The Doors, Idris Muhammed, A Tribe Called Quest, Boogie Down Productions, The Police, MIA, Ludacris, Blondie, Whodini, Gil Scott Herron, etc...

Our next event is on Friday August 5th at Flamingo Cantina, we're gonna have visuals, sponsors and hopefully some giveaways. Mark the date and spread the word. And most importantly, thanks for getting down with us and giving us energy to rock the crowd.

/////////////////////////////////////////

War of The Worlds

I saw it, it was a good movie and I don't typically like blockbusters. I thought it was on point and fun and entertaining. But check out this guy's review. Someone is a hater (dude, it's a blockbuster, megamillion dollar movie, dumbass).

Blue Sky Replica

2005-07-03T01:11:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been coming up with a ton of guitar-driven songs. The lyrics are hard for me to come up with, but the music is easy. It just comes out. I have a good feeling about these songs and will showcase them when the time is right. But for now, I thought I would do a list of my favorite guitar songs (just for kicks)

The Beatles "And Your Bird Can Sing"
The Beatles "I'm So Tired"
The Beatles "You Like Me Too Much"
The Beatles "Sexy Sadie"
The Smiths "Accept Yourself"
The Smiths "Wonderful Woman"
The Smiths "Reel Around The Fountain"
The Smiths "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now"
The Smiths "This Night Has Opened My Eyes"
The Smiths "Unhappy Birthday"
The Smiths "That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore"
The Church "Under The Milky Way Tonight"
U2 "Seconds"
U2 "Two Hearts Beat As One"
U2 "I Will Follow"
U2 "New Years Day"
The Police "Bring On The Night"
The Police "Walking On The Moon"
New Order "Love Vigalantes"
Neil Young "Cinnamon Girl"
The Cure "Boys Don't Cry"
The Cure "The Forest"
The Cure "Just Like Heaven"
The Cure "Primary"
Echo and The Bunnymen "The Rescue"
The Pretenders "Show Me"
The Pretenders "Message Of Love"
The Pretenders "Back On The Chain Gang"
David Bowie "Queen Bitch"
David Bowie "Hang On To Yourself"
The Clash "Spanish Bombs"
The Clash "Police On My Back"
Rolling Stones "Wild Horses"
The Hollies "The Air That I Breathe"
Big Star "Back Of Your Car"
Big Star "September Gurls"
Velvet Underground "Rock and Roll"
The Pixies "Number 13 Baby"
The Pixies "Gigantic"
The Pixies "Where Is My Mind"
Stone Roses "I Wanna Be Adored"
Travis "Driftwood"
Radiohead "Knives Out"
Radiohead "In Limbo"
Radiohead "No Surprises"
Radiohead "Lift"

These are all great songs, songs I love, but if I had to choose one and only one (and it would be very difficult to do so), I would choose "Show Me" by The Pretenders. I absolutely love that song.

Starsign and Chicken George this Wed nite!

2005-06-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

You know what's cool? When Chicken George and Starsign play a nite together.
Come kick it with us (it's been a longgggg time since we've played together).
Parakitachi back in the saddle y'all.

Wed nite
Firehouse Lounge
11 - 2
Chicken George and Starsign

tell you friends
give us a dap
buy some drink and just
cool out & listen to us, listen to us.

/////////////////////////////////////////

Don't forget about the First MoreTempo Party
This Sunday nite at Flamingo Cantina

click here for the MoreTempo mini site

///////////////////////////////////////

Sometimes you just want to mellow out and listen to some really good music. I recommend:

Digable Planets

2005-06-27T23:37:00.000-07:00

I was about to graduate from high school when Digable Planet's "Rebirth of Slick" became a radio hit. As huge fans of De La Soul, Gangstarr, Main Source, Pete Rock and CL Smooth and A Tribe Called Quest, the track and the whole vibe of the group didn't sound that different to us from what the other groups where doing (especially Tribe and Gangstarr). Plus we thought the bassline to Rebirth of Slick sounded way too similar to "Oodles of O's" off of De La Soul Is Dead (still, my favorite hip hop record of all time).

Plus it seemed like mostly white kids that hated rap music liked Digable Planets b/c it wasn't "gangster rap". I never really got into the first album. It just didn't do it for me like "Daily Operation" did. It was cool, but to me, a little too coffeeshop for my tastes.

They dropped "Blowout Comb" in 1994. By then I was really starting to get into old school hip hop, so when the first single (9th Wonder) sampled Grandmaster Flash, James Brown and Fred Wesley, I was feeling it. Plus, the video looked like Style Wars. Among the Artifacts, Jeru, Souls of Mischief, Biggie and Keith Murray releases, it held up pretty well. In fact, I was telling everyone about how good the record was, trying to convince them that they weren't on the whole coffeehouse vibe anymore.

The album has held up well in the time that has passed and I even gave the first album a listen recently and it sounds really good. Nicknack is friends with some of the guys in The Procussions (who were opening up for Digable Planets tonight). He had an extra ticket, so we went to the show. The place was packed. Procussions put on a real energetic set. People were feeling them, although I doubt that many had heard of them before. The DJ looks a hell of a lot like this guy we knew from back when.

Then Digable came out (Ladybug is still sexy as hell). The played for about 2 hours and I was vibing the whole time. The music sounded great, even after nearly 10 years had passed since they put out a new album. It also brought to the forefront how different hip hop sounds now. Drums don't sound live anymore. Most of the warm, full feeling of hip hop has turned into a digital, plastic sound.

Anyway, I'm really sleepy and should have written a better synopsis, but all I gotta say is that DP came correct tonight. I'm glad I went. Sleepy time now...

I slept on this forever

2005-06-26T19:50:00.000-07:00

I used to be one of those hip hop guys who turned his nose at House music.
I hated "Around The World" and "Da Funk" by Daft Punk, but especially hated "One More Time" off of Discovery//

Man, things have really changed.
This album does it for me big time these days.
I even like "Alive 1997".

Highly recommend this record.

Upcoming gigs

2005-06-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

Tuesday June 21st:
Red Fez with Bigface

Saturday June 25th:
Spinning at Velvet Spade

Sunday July 3rd:
MoreTempo with NickNack at Flamingo Cantina
more details coming soon

I Love This Soundtrack

2005-06-19T22:16:00.000-07:00

Joe Jackson, The Pretenders, Lou Reed, Patti Smith, The Ramones. That's what's up kiddo.

In other randomness. I'm out of the loop when it comes to music these days, but heard a song called "An Honest Mistake" by The Bravery, who kind of look like The Misfits, The Cramps, The Ants and The Strokes had their kids playing music. Supposedly, people call them fake or whatever (what a surprise), but this song is new-wavey enough for me to like it. I reminds me of "Sex Dwarf" by Soft Cell (a song so fast, it's still too fucking fast on minus 8). Is synth new wave back?

Michael Jackson Came In His Pajamas

2005-06-19T13:34:00.000-07:00

It's not only children that make him come in his pajamas.
This clip is so loaded with nuggets. Triumph goes howrd as usual.

In other news, anyone heard the new Coldplay with the Peter Saville inspired cover?

I really do like the music and the airy vibe, even though some of the songs are pedestrian and comfy. Lyrics are 9th grade "pining for your unattainable love" type of shit, but there are a few songs I can get with (still prefer Doves though).

Anyway, the song "Talk" replays a segment of "Computer Love" by Kraftwerk (although, my favorite part of CL is the OTHER synth line that sounds all Depeche Mode-y). I want to start going "computer love" and sing on top of it. I smell a blend-a-coming.

One more thing. Been listening to middle school favorite, "The Crackdown" recently. Haven't listened to this since 1992 or something. Funny how this really fits with all the more recent DFA / LCD sound. "24, 24,24 hours a day", mix it in with "what have I, what have I, what have I done to deserve this" and "bonjour, bonjour, comment allez-vous ?" will be sort of nice.

Watch that Triumph Clip.

Upcoming TV apperance and gigs

2005-06-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

Just got back from Cozumel and am getting the sand out
of my trunks and trying to catch up on rest (I already miss the ocean, fish and cool Mexican kids).

I got this link from Nicknack of an
upcoming episode of "Dowtown", a series that documents
cool things going down in Austin. I will be on TV with
Nicknack and Chicken George as part of a segment on
DJs.

You can view the segment via this link:

Plush: Friday the 10th with Tarek for Mi Casa
Firehouse Lounge: Wed the 15th for Wild Pair Wednesdays.

Come out and say hi or give me a kiss if you're a girlie.
dave ss

Best Week Ever Rules

2005-05-30T00:08:00.000-07:00

They clowned all over Tom Cruise's freak out on Oprah, and Gwen Stefani's "Hollaback Girl", the most annoying song since "I'm like a bird".

"Someone needs to tell Gwen she's not in high school anymore"
True indeed God, true indeed God right.

Que Pasa

2005-05-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

Thank You to all who came out to the Afrofreque show.
It was good to play those kind of records and have people get down to them. Be on the lookout for more things in the same vein to happen.

A few quick things.

Wed. 06-01-2005 at Karma, Holy Trinity (Tribute night to The Smiths, Depeche Mode, The Cure)
Wed. 06-15-2005 at Firehouse Lounge with DJ Snap (Wild Pair Wednesdays)

See you there.

Boca 45 This Friday!

2005-05-24T20:32:00.000-07:00

SOME LIKE IT HOTT!
Friday May 27th @ The Velvet Spade
(10th & Red River)

Doors @ 8:00pm :: ONLY $5

Sunset Patio Party with The Alpha Rhythm

Complimentary Beer & Pizza while its lasts.
Shoe raffle by PF Flyers

Fashion Show @ 9:30 featuring apparel and swhimwear from UPSTAIRS (mens
apparel), FLIRT (womens apparel), & TYLERS (swimwear). Hair and Makeup
by Electra Beauty Lounge. Fashion show followed by Booty-Shakin Beats
from:

DJ SCOTT HENDY aka BOCA 45

(UK, Dynamo Productions)
Pitch Sounds Album Tour/Grand Central Records
www.boca45.co.uk

--The sound is a mad mash-up of hip-hop, funk, breaks, and
soul, all skillfully blended together.-- (DJ Magazine)

Dont forget your dancin shoes!
be funky. be fresh. be strange.

www.strangetribe.com

Aphex Twin Remix used for "Axe" TV Ad

2005-05-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

I couldn't find my copy of "26 Mixes For Cash", but finally was able to confirm that, yes, the latest Axe body spray commercial uses the beginning of the Aphex Twin remix for Gentle People's "Journey". A track that is long as hell, sounds very tropical, not "Aphex-ish" and uses the same sample at the end of the song as David Holmes' "Rodney Yates" (yeah dude, pretty nerdy of me for knowing all that).

Lots of cool songs used for ads in the past, but this one was kind of left-field (literally). I think Aphex Twin has been used in ads overseas but an artist like him, pushing a "body spray" that probably targets Maxim readers is just straight player in my book.

Speaking of playerness, check the so retro it hurts video for Daft Punk's Robot Rock. It reminds me of those videos that used to come out on Solid Gold or some shit before MTV.

Another cool video on the "Daft" tip is this one, which I've posted before but it's still hip. (check the difference in the helmets).

You go on that team, I go on this team...

2005-05-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

Stereolab was a group that I got sick of in the 90's, then got back into recently.
They've just released a comp called "Oscillons From The Anti-Sun". The DVD that comes with it is sort of nice and it includes a live performance of the awesome "Les Yper Sound" (although this is yet another version where the bass doesn't sound like the bass on the CD... which is too bad b/c it totally rocks).

I still think Laetitia is cute. I don't know how relevant this band is anymore, but you finally get a legit copy of "Flourescenses" if you missed it the first time around.
I still dig them (again).

I love the 70's (and 60's too)

2005-05-08T14:43:00.000-07:00

Listen to the Butterfunk Concoction Mix on Soulstrut.com.

Thievery Corporation on Solid Steel

2005-05-04T01:13:00.000-07:00

Listen to Solid Steel this week to hear a set from the infamous Thievery Corporation. They even played "Cosmic Sea", which is such a great song.

Come out to Karma for Holy Trinity on 5/04/2005.

I'm just a dude trying to something good.

2005-05-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

So here's the deal. I've just updated starsigndesign.com and I like the way the site turned out, very clean and minimal. I realized that maybe I should get a message board, but I don't really know how to integrate it yet so I gotta talk to my computer head friends. I'm working on new designs and trying to get some more up, aswell as photos and a little quicktime movie.

Lately, DJing has been sort of busted. A lot of people asking for garbage or Jurassic 5 (no dis, but there are a ton of other rap groups out there y'all). People ain't feeling breaks or soulful music much these days. It seems like the more Lil Jon it is or the more corny 80's it is, the more people get into it.

(Prepare for major snobbery right about now)... Sorry y'all, but that's just crap music (see I told you). People used to dig Beatnuts, Main Source, etc... Now you play a JVC Force track or a classic break like Aretha Franklin's "Rock Steady" and people think it's disco (!).

So, it is definitely an uphill battle playing a different style of music than what is on the radio, but I guess these days, the creative folks that used to come out in packs, are marinating elsewhere and now we got herds of radiofed zombies patrolling the area.

I know for a fact that my man Chicken and my man Mel have deep records, but they gotta stick to certain tracks that the sheep will dance to. Hopefully, Nick and I can attract the creative crowd once again with our upcoming "Moretempo" event. I still have faith, but it's pretty tough.

Nip/Tuck is getting weird.

2005-05-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've never seen this show, but I caught last week's episode. Whoa! is this how this show is? I mean, a dude operates on laughing gas, kills a patient, cuts her up into pieces and stuffs her body in a suitcase, then starts slicing his own face off in hopes of attaching someone else's on? Not to mention the beautifully lanky Famke Jansen tongue-kissing her own son?

Damn! It's bugged out. I think I need to catch up on the first 2 seasons.

Yeah dude, this sucks

2005-04-24T00:23:00.000-07:00

Dude, cut your frickin' hair.

Oh yeah, read the previous entry to come to my gigs.
PS- Big up to DJ Mel for rocking the spot on the regular (dude does not play around). Mel if you're reading this, keep on keepin' on.

Thursday April 28th @ Whisky Bar (and other gigs)

2005-04-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Thu: 4.28:.
Spinning rock, nuwave and eclectic retro joints (probably very little hip hop) at Whisky Bar. Get down to some good shit.

Fri: 4.29:.
Back at Whisky Bar. I will be doing a 4 hour classic hip hop and party rock set in a similar style to my "Paul's Boutique" event a few months back. Represent!

Sun: 5.01:.
Playing a film wrap party at Deville.

Wed: 5.04:.
Second installment of "Holy Trinity". Playing and paying tribute to The Smiths, The Cure and Depeche Mode. With Me, IRDBISA and Western Arms doing the damn thing.

YESSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-04-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

Hell yeah!!!

Where the hell was I when this was announced? Depeche Mode's "Devotional" is now available on DVD! That was one of the most visually intense concerts I have ever been to and their best tour in my opinion but it was only available on VHS for years.

I still remember everything about that night vividly. The projections, the gospel choir, Alan playing drums wearing a cheesy vest. Andy just standing behind a keyboard and Dave rocking the fuck out.

I have been waiting for this to come out on DVD for so long that I just forgot to even check for it after a while. I'm getting this baby ASAP. Forget One Night In Paris, this is the must have.

Edan : Beauty and the Beat

2005-04-18T21:40:00.000-07:00

Not the Go-Gos. This is much much better. First let me backtrack, there are a few albums that I hold very near and dear to my heart because unlike other music that was good, these records went beyond just containing songs and they defined who I became.

The Beatles : S/T aka White Album
Talking Heads : Remain In Light
A Tribe Called Quest : Low End Theory
De La Soul : Is Dead
Gangstarr : Daily Operation
DJ Shadow : Endtroducing
Can : Tago Mago
David Bowie : The Rise and Fall Of Ziggy Stardust
New Order : Power, Corruption and Lies.

and a longer list made a huge impression on me. There was something about these records that sort of took me to another place. In recent years, I haven't really heard anything that compared to what I felt when I listened to these records listed above.

The long and short of it is that this kid Edan from Boston is one of the dopest MCs I've ever seen and I normally don't like "alt-rap" or whatever the fuck people call it (Def Jux, Anticon, etc...). People lump Edan in the same camp because he's white and suburban and he's got an eccentric vibe, but listen to his raps. They're like Ultramagnetic part 2.

I met dude last year, gave him one of my CDs that had one of his tracks (Mic Manipulator) and I bought one of his mixes. It was cool, very fun, but nothing mind blowing. Sometime later, I heard two of the best mix CDs ever and they both happened to be by Edan (who also deejays and produces). Fast Rap and Sound of The Funky Drummer were top notch.

I saw that Edan put out another record. I expected something along the lines of Schoolly D Knew The Time or Drop Some Smooth Lyrics. Personally, I love the fact the he shouts out Treacherous 3 and Spoonie Gee (along with other old school legends). "I'm only 21 and I know all the words to "Love Rap".

Love Rap is one of my all time favorite old school cuts. People sleep on it, but the real heads know what time it is. Anyway, I listen to Beauty and the Beat (the newest album). All I can say is "Man Hold Up!".

Dude is taking me back to 1991 when my friend Tony let me borrow People's Instinctive..., Mecca and The Soul Brother, Kill at Will and countless others in an effort to "convert" me from a new wave guy into a hip hop dude (guess what Tony, you did it).

I couldn't get enough. Soon after came classics like Cypress Hill, Black Moon, Diamond D, Notorious BIG, etc... I loved all of it and I felt a deep connection with it, so much so that I became an avid fan of anything hip hop related, especially the beats and breaks.

Around 1998, I started feeling a little jaded. The music wasn't as good as it used to be and I started spinning more downtempo-oriented stuff. Hip Hop's commercialization and minstrel show is pretty fucking pathetic. Most of the shit out there is decent at best. Nothing mind-blowing. The latest shit I was amped on was Vikter Vaughn and "Hyphy".

Edan did it to me. He came correct with it, like Ice Cube in his prime, ATCQ and Gangstarr pre-1995. Some of you reading this will roll your eyes and that's cool, but to me, this album sounds the way rap records used to sound 15 years ago; ON FUCKING POINT.

There are no Stetsas, no BDPs, no PEs, no BDKs, no Slick Ricks anymore. The coolest thing about Beauty and the Beat is that it doesn't replicate the innovator's styles, it builds on it, using lots of spacey, psychey, reverbed sounds and making the shit sound cool.

Edan's raps are on point (big up to Lif, Percee, Insight and Dagha). I saw he and Insight do "The Science of The Two" live at that show last year and that shit was amazing. Another thing that made me smile, Edan gives a shout out to "A New Rap Language" (another slept on classic by posers from the burbs).

Thank you Edan.

More news (plus a few mixes on my site)

2005-04-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

I finally had time this weekend to update my site (www.starsigndesign.com) and put not one, but two mixes up. One is a fairly mellow affair and the other, a mix recorded for my now defunct "Control" night (which morphed into Out To Play and that night fizzled out too). But I only took the last part of the mix, and slowed it down.

I was reading Matt's blog (www.houstonsoreal.blogspot.com) and just did it for kicks. It kind of sucks, but whatever, it was sitting on my hard-drive and now at least someone may actually like it. Got my audio gear in order so production should be coming soon aswell as better mix CDs.

Still looking for a good drummer and bassist for my "rock" project.

I'm gonna be at Whisky Bar either this Friday or next. Bart, the GM, has been having me fill in for like 3 or 4 weeks in a row. I enjoy Whisky Bar, because it's the only bar that seems to not be filled with cheesy frosty tipped metrosexual wannabes or girls with fake tans and fake Sex and The City-ness.

I was there this past Saturday in the back and boy did I suck. The monitor was out, so that's kind of an excuse, but the real problem was my headphones breaking at the beginning of the night. I didn't realize how much I depend on both sides. I think I sounded bad and not many people dancing so I think the music wasn't hitting.

I think I'm gonna have to leave my more eclectic styles for the upcoming "MORETEMPO" party that I will be doing with my homeslice and Parakitachi partner, Nicknack.

Bart wants me to spin a more "old school and party jam" style mix for this upcoming Whisky performance (I'll leave the house, dirty disco and rock stuff home). Probably gonna be on some "New Rap Language-Message-Rockin' It - That's The Joint-Brass Monkey - Eric B For President- You Gots To Chill - Fakin' the Funk- type steez).

I'm gonna try to get a percussionist to join me for the first half of the night and belt out some rhythms over my instrumental beats.

Also working on putting together some "real" art and selling it to try to finance some more travelling to Europe, Mexico and NYC.

Lots of good energy being generated so I expect the art to be "not-wack" (damn, I'm over-using quotation marks today).

So that's it for now. Upcoming events include some sort of performance with a live outfit, a film-wrap party and the second installment of our new-wave madness (Holy Trinity).

peace.

Friday Night (April 8th) @ Whisky Bar

2005-04-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

First of all, thanks to all that came out to our "New Wave" party last night, it was great to hear all of the "Sire/Factory" records that used to be club staples back in the day in one night.

Be on the look out for next month's installment of Holy Trinity.

And for a change of pace, Friday night (4/8) I will be spinning at Whisky Bar again. The flavor is more boogie down breaks, hip hops, and party joints. I tried to spin some disco-type ish last time but the crowd wasn't havin' it, so no disco for the time being.

Tell your friends and shake your rumpah.

PS- Much Respect to Zen, D-Sharp and all involved in the "Can't Stop Won't Stop" CD. I love it.
God I still love breaks.

Songs of the moment: "1,2 Step" , "Warzone", Superappin'", "And You Know That".

HOLY TRINITY WED. APRIL 6TH!!!!

2005-04-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

HOLY TRINITY WED. APRIL 6TH!!!!

Music from or inspired by Depeche Mode, The Smiths, The Cure. DJs; Starsign, Irdbisa and Western Arms at Karma. Go to the mini-site for more details.

See you there!!!

Mitch Hedberg RIP

2005-03-31T18:07:00.000-08:00

I didn't want to believe it but I guess it's true. Mitch was my favorite comedian. I saw him 3 times and was just talking about him yesterday, saying that I was gonna check him out when he came through again since it's been about 2 years since I caught his act.

Damn, it's a bummer. I wish I still had "Strategic Grill Locations". Gravity, Smacky The Frog, The "P" in receipt, ADD drugs, the highlighter, human pyramids, Ritz Crackers, Pringles.... Mitch made all these things funny. He will be sorely missed.

Holy Trinity Wed. April 6th @ Karma Lounge

2005-03-30T20:12:00.000-08:00

Holy Trinity

DJ Starsign, DJ IRDBISA, and Western Arms will be spinning at the Holy Trinity nite on Wednesday April 6th. This is a party devoted to music from or inspired by Depeche Mode, The Smiths and The Cure. Every first Wednesday of the month at Karma Lounge

See you there.

*************************************************************

So, I had updated my "real" site complete with a 60 minute audio mix for you all to peep and..."nothing". Don't know why it's not showing up, even though on the FTP, it says that the files were published. I'm a designer, not much of a computer dude, so if a 5 year old can't do it, I'm kind of lost. Fortunately, I have a lot of computer dude friends, so hopefully this issue will get resolved pronto (that's soon for you real Gringo muther fuckers out there).

Man, I am still not over my wack ass illness. I've DJed TWICE whilst sick and it fucking sucks. I sounded like a complete tool. Lucky for me, most Djs these days don't even beatmatch anymore so I didn't sould like a total noob (that's newbie for all you Gringo muther fuckers out there...um yeah).

Enough Gringo bashing. Despite my wack DJ skills due to mr. bitch ass Flu kicking me in the pants, I still like DJing. These days, I'm appreciating funk music a lot. I've always liked it and have collected it, but it wasn't too long ago that every DJ nerd with a pair of decks, the internet and a credit card was buying reissues, AND rare funk 7"s and trying to be all Cut Chemist. These days, the second generation of those kind of DJ nerds is into some other shit and hardly anyone except for the diehards spin funk anymore. Which makes funk sound so much better now that it isn't such a fad anymore.

Songs I'm digging:
Quasimoto "RappCats" (with the sleeve that pays homage to PE, Eric B and Rakim and Sugarhill Records all subliminal style.)
Thievery Corporation "Warning Shots"
Doves "Black and White Town"
New Young Pony Club "Ice Cream"
Mark Rae "Medicine" Kraak and Smaak Remix

Celebrity Girly that's got me thinking she's hot even though I normally don't find skinny girls like her attractive:
Mischa Barton (don't know what it is, but damn.)

***please excuse all typos (I still got a fever)***

Friday April 1st at Whisky Bar

2005-03-30T12:53:00.000-08:00

I will be spinning in the front part of Whisky Bar this coming Friday April 1st.

See you there,
dave

PS: If you haven't seem "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House" you should. Don't know if Gondry directed it but it has his flavor to it. I rather like it.

DJ Set tomorrow night (Saturday 26th) @ Whisky Bar

2005-03-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

I am still recovering from my post SXSW flu breakdown (complete with high fever, body aches, deleriousness-- but no vomiting!). Got the call from Bart to spin at the Whisky (my favorite spot downtown)tomorrow night. I've had many of you ask me "Where/When are you spinning next?" so I hope you're reading this.

Bring out your homies and girlies, cuz I'm busting out the rollerdisco, new wave, hip hop, funk, house, beats. You know, a little bit of old shit, some new edgy stuff, some classics, some obscure stuff, some sexy grooves and an upbeat time all around.

Whisky Bar Sat. nite 3/26.

Man I'm sick

2005-03-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

I got the flu (I think). I feel groggy and congested and weak. I felt better yesterday and DJed. I was okay until the last hour when I got a fever, backpain and all around feeling like shitness.

It was a bunk night. My homie Manny holds it down at Red Fez on Tuesdays (a night the was originally started by me, Manny, Chicken George and Jeff Strange). The format was an "anything goes" style of mixing old and new tracks. Several times, Manny has had me as a special guest and we have rocked it, but the last few times I have subbed have been pretty busted. I don't play what I call "cheesy" music like anything from Vanilla Ice, Milli Vanilli, corny radio rap like "Baby Got Back" or whatever, but I do get requests for that type of steez.

I was feeling sick, so I got a whole lot of rap, house, funk and rock records. The reaction was lukewarm. I had a nice crowd when I was playing the more soulful tracks, but once I stepped it up, it just never really went off.

Normally, I can play anything from The Police to The Clash to Daft Punk to New Order and people love it, but I guess it was the wrong crowd for those type of records. I should have brought out the "college rap" (J5, The Roots, Tribe Called Quest) because I did get requests for those.

Speaking of DJing, I was really digging DJ Hutz's set at the Fader House this last weekend. He was playing all sorts of crazy Balkan Reggeton and Gypsy punk type shit. You never hear that type of shit down here in Texas. The only song I recognized was the "Balkan Hotstep" (one of the toughest broken beat tracks out).

I'm gonna be doing the "Holy Trinity" night on April 6th. It's a concept I came up with where I wanted to pay tribute to the Holy Trinity of my youth (The Smiths, The Cure and Depeche Mode) shit I wanted to put New Order in there somewhere, but the Holy Quartet sounds wack. I mentioned it to my homie, Anthony and he got the wheels in motion for the party along with some of his more electro-oriented friends. I think it should be really good, I'll start promoting it soon.

DJ appearance at Red Fez Tuesday 22nd

2005-03-21T15:10:00.000-08:00

Manny asked me to hold down the decks for him tomorrow night. Come through and buy a CD from me.

peace,
dave

DJ Starsign at K-Bar (Tuesday March 3-15)

2005-03-14T18:11:00.000-08:00

It's SXSW. Coming Wednesday, it's gonna be hectic. I'll be at K-Bar spinning the joints.

New Parakitachi Residency @ K Bar

2005-03-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

This may or may not coincide with the amazing turnout at last Monday's event which featured Chicken George, A.M., and Nicknack, on the decks, but we just got word that K-Bar wants to start a Tuesday night residency with Parakitachi in control of the music.

Featured Revolving DJ lineup includes;
Chicken George
A.M.
Starsign
Nicknack

with special invited guests,
DJ Sun
DJ Melodic
an others taking their turn on the wheels of steel.

For those of you craving that staple "Parakitachi Sound", this is it.
The mix of music will be our eclectic mix of fat jazzy grooves, chunky hip hop beats, dubby lounge and anything with soul from house to hip hop to broken beat to rare groove to latin/ acid jazz.

Starts this Tuesday, March 8th @ K-Bar with DJ Starsign in the mix.

K-Bar is located at 600 6th St. (at the corner of 6th and Red River)
Not your usual 6th St. type bar.

Come join us.

Thievery Corporation : The Cosmic Game

2005-02-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

I still remember not picking up Sounds From The Thievery Hi-Fi until late 1998 because it was in the "trip hop" section. 95% of the trip hop or acid jazz I had heard was so bland I could hardly stand to listen to some fake ass wanna be coffee shop jazz.

I finally heard "2001: a spliff odyssey" and it was the beginning of my long affinity for Thievery. They've become quite popular in that last few years and while some snobs dismiss them as light, slick, or music for yuppies, I still dig them. Honestly, I couldn't listen to The Richest Man In Babylon as much as I did Hi Fi or Mirror Conspiracy. I always dug most of their remixes (Abductions and Reconstructions is one of my favorite compilations), plus they had great taste.

I finally felt like there was a group that I could identify with as I was major into the whole James Bond title sequence, 60's Italian and French cinema and graphic design from that era. Still, I wouldn't call myself a mod. Back to the topic at hand.

I've listened to this latest release and it's probably their best since Mirror Conspiracy. I'm a sucker for dub and there's much of that this time around.

Another release in the downtempo vein that I've really been digging is Govinda's Worlds Within. This dude is from Austin and is homies with a couple of my friends, but I'd never heard any of his music until I was listening to KUT and they played the first track of the cd. It reminded me of Tosca's Suzuki in vibe (one of my favorite DT albums) so I got a copy of it. It's got some great songs on it for that laidback vibe.

Last Minute Gig

2005-02-24T08:55:00.000-08:00

I am subbing for Trey Lopez tonight at Brown Bar.
Hip Lounge, Cultured Beats and Eclectic Grooves.
10 - 2. check it

It's wrong, stereotypical, but funny as hell

2005-02-23T20:25:00.000-08:00

You know you want to watch.
get your patriotism on son.

?uesto gotta nice room full of records

2005-02-23T17:24:00.000-08:00

I'm about half way there. Peep the drummer's record room son.

Now That's What I'm Talking Bout The Remix

2005-02-21T17:41:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know for most of you who are under 25, this shit is probably irrelevant, but to see why I fell in love with real hip hop, check this motherfucker out right here , no bullshittin', this video is like Hip Hop vs Rap, the new generation.

Now that's what I'm talking about

2005-02-17T10:28:00.000-08:00

I was a shoegazer (I guess). Me and my buddy Travis would listen to all the Cocteau Twins, Verve, Slowdive, Ride, Lush, Curve, Cranes, My Bloody Valentine, Chapterhouse, This Mortal Coil, old Cure you could handle. Goth kids are lame, shoegazers were the real deal.

Just found out that the Cocteaus reunited for some tour dates. They probably won't come to Austin, but if they do, they better play Cherry-Coloured Funk and Pink-Orange-Red. click

Feel me on this one.

Observations and more DJ news

2005-02-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

So, while I have "The Funky Penguin" playing in my head, I'll go ahead and speak on a few things. First of all, thanks to the many folks and fine young ladies that came out to the art installation event. For those of you all that were there, y'all must have noticed the cameras in the house. That's b/c I was being filmed for some new show highlighting Austin's downtown scene. The producers contacted me about spotlighting the PK crew and how we do things differently than your average deejay.

The segment should air in April, but I will get a copy of it and have it on the site. I was rockin' my Vikter Duplaix shades during the interview b/c they had a bright ass light in my face. The film crew was mad cool and very supportive of our efforts. I didn't play my usual PK style set; I went for a more party-flavored set.

Playlist included some more popular songs than I am used to. Started it off with some Jose Feliciano doing a mean cover of The Beatle's "She's a Woman", followed it up with Jimmy Smith's classic, "Rootdown", threw in "Come Live With Me Angel", followed by that G-Unit track that "sampled" it (to which Chicken commented, "why the fuck are YOU playing THAT song???"... if it's good, it's good...period).

Didn't know how to come out of a G-Unit track at an art opening, so I threw on the Close To Me 12" and it seemed to liven up the joint a bit. Proceeded to rock it by playing some Beatfanatic, Mantronix, Sly Stone, 3rd Bass, New Order, Into The Groove, Not Another Drugstore, Freedom, Get Up and Dance, Push It, Strangelove, White Horse, Deceptacon, more Sly, some Aretha, some Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway, The Clash, English Beat, My Sharona (which I was a bit apprehensive about playing, but the crowd ate it up).

I Wonder If I Take You Home was an unexpected hit, as was Born Under Punches. Only had two girls bump into the tables, one asshole touch my Kaos pad, but the highlight was the One Thing/Get Right blend. I love them two songs and together, it's like the magic potion to get everybody gyrating. Grafitti thugs, b-boys, hipsters and them two hella stylish Black new wavers were all going off. I don't give a fuck, I don't even like JLo but that song goes hard.

Good night overall. It was a preview of things to come with my MoreTempo parties.

I'm gonna be spinning at Factory People this Wednesday for Chinese New Year and at Gomi this Thursday for another art exhibit where they're gonna serve Fried Chicken and Lone Stars (John Gomi said it was the "anti-swank, anti-Starsign" vibe... what can I say, I like Martinis.)

That is all, make sure to get my new CD, The Heat, if you see me. $10.00. You'll like it, it's proper. Tracklisting posted earlier so gte your read on.

Deejay Lil Tiger on "Getting into records and deejaying"

2005-02-06T10:31:00.000-08:00

Les (aka Lil Tiger) is my fucking homeboy from back in the day. We were both complete record junkies, hip hop fans and indie kids who also happened to like design and film and art and all that good shit. We started Parakitachi out of an idea of just finding similar folks that appreciated the same things we did.

Our other homeboy Nick (also a PK member) has a message board and one of the threads was "How did you get into spinning/ buying vinyl?" My post was boring. Les responded with the following. Before we get to that, Les has a real talent for writing some witty ass shit and making sense. Dood is crazy smart and he's a dope fucking deejay too. The names mentioned aren't important (they are people we know), but the post was excellent. And now, Les gives us the scoop...

"Shit, y'all know me. I only do long rambles on shit like this, so apologies up front for the retarded length and mundane details.

Man, I can't really pinpoint one moment when I decided to get into buying records or DJing.

I know that I grew up in a house full of music. Not a house full of musicians, but a house full of music. If it wasn't my parents playing tumba lps and 45s from Aruba and Puerto Rico, it was me and my older brother, Ken, fighting over control of the stereo (bro always won, of course. But, like most little brothers, I wanted to be just like him, so I fed off of his taste, which has always been good when it comes to pop music.) It seems like music was always on in my house or in the car when we were going around Houston. My family never cared much for quiet.

Because of this, buying records has been a normal part of our lives for as far back as I can remember. Of course, my earliest records came from the folks, and were like the ones Nick was talking about. City Mouse and the Country Mouse. Peter Pan. Shit like that. Man, I LOVED those and, like any tiny tot, would play them over and over and over. First record I know I ever loved beyond health and sanity: Frosty the Snowman. That and Disco Duck. Boy, I must have needle burned the fuck out of some Disco Duck.

But we were big on buying pop 45s when we got a wee bit older. Total top 40 radio heads. Casey Kasem on Sundays like religion. Whenever our parents took us to the department store, Ken and I would bum money off of them to buy pop 45s in the music section. We wanted all the radio hits, and sometimes, we'd talk them into letting us buy lyric books, too. Anyone remember those? It's really cloudy when I think back, but I remember tearing through them, particularly one that had Eye of the Tiger lyrics in it.

I guess that was really more my parents getting us those records, since it was their money and we were either just putting it in the shopping cart, or asking for the loot and buying it ourselves. Still, it was our choice and taste, so I think that counts for something. I couldn't name specific ones. I remember some of my favorites, tho. "Lucille." "9 to 5." "Harper Valley PTA." "Mr. Roboto." Blondie. Abba. Supertramp. Neil Diamond.

We did this for years. Had quite a big collection of pop 45s between the two of us, relatively speaking of course. I mean, we were still in the single digits, agewise.

As we got older, we started getting more LPs. I think my earliest artist obsessions were Mr. Mister and Cindi Lauper. Loved me some Cindi Lauper. Olivia Newton John had a big run with us. The Grease soundtracks. Irene Cara. Howard Jones. Madonna. We Are the World. Anything with a Jackson on it. (Yeah, that means LaToya, Jermaine, the Victory stuff, etc). I remember winning a copy of the Thriller album at a church bazaar and it was like the greatest day of my life. I still have it. It wasn't until I got to college that I realized it was some Latin American pressing and had all the song names in Spanish in parenthases on the back. Black Michael basically ruled our household for most of my childhood.

Parents still always gave us money to buy music. We listened to the radio like crazy and watched every video show we could get our eyes on. I swear Friday Night Videos had a profound impact on my childhood. And MTV of course had us hooked.

I started buying tapes for a while and got out of records a little bit, but came back to vinyl when my friend Josh got into DJing while I was in middle school. I didn't understand DJing back then at all and wasn't particularly interested, but Josh was the man, and he was into a lot of New Wave and Industrial stuff and some of the earlier Acid House type stuff. (Middle class suburban Houston STAND UP!) I got hooked on buying twelve inches, and was coming out of my allowance pocket at this point. Really dug the Industrail/New Wave stuff. Lot of Wax Trax records. Of course Depeche Mode owned me. New Order. Cure. Front 242. MCL. Camoflauge. CCCP. Thrill Kill Cult. Primal Scream.

Oddly enough, I started really getting into Hip-Hop and Indie/Punk at around the same time I discovered the joy of dubbing tapes, which meant vinyl took a backseat, ironically enough. I discovered Native Tongues and SST at about the same time, and from there it was all mail-order cassettes and dubbing like mad. I bought the ocassional record, but my teen budget was not robust.

Then came CDs. My first: The Smiths Peel Sessions (RIP John Peel). From then until college, I was pretty much store-bought cassette tapes, dubs, and used CDs, particularly from Sound Exchange when it was still on Westheimer near where the hookers worked. I'd say it was mostly Punk, Hip-Hop and Reggae at that time. I ended up giving away most of my new wave/industrial stuff in a fit of typical teen fad rebellion (I still cringe at that).

Somewhere in there I went to my (recently revisited) Manchester phase. I was buying some Native Tongue twelves at this time while trying to scoop up stuff like the Happy Mondays and the Stone Roses on vinyl. But mostly I rocked tapes.

All the money I got as gifts from family for my high school graduation went to Hip-Hop CDs from the Sound Waves on Main. Learned about that spot from Matt Sonzala's Dropping Bombs, Strictly Hip-Hop and Chill Will's Bass 9-1-7 Zone, which pretty much hooked me on underground Hip-Hop my junior and senior years of high school. I thought about buying records and got interested in DJing from the songs I heard, but I still gravitated more toward CDs. Like zachd, tho, I wasn't interested in records that had just an instro and an acapella. Didn't understand it. The remixes intrigued me, but it had to be a super dope remix, or a straight-up unreleased track that was only on the 12" for me to even consider it. I remember passing on all the Gangstarr records back then because they didn't have any remixes. Just instrumentals. I thought that was lame. Ah, hindsight is a motherfucker, eh?

Got to college and Austin and discovered the evil world of disposable college income. I also got mad depressed and hated school and felt out of place in the city, so I totally buried myself in music. Mostly used to hit up Tower for jazz and Hip-Hop CDs, but I met Jef, and he broke down everything about breaks, mixing, cuts and, most importantly, 12 inch records. He also schooled me on dancehall. At the same time, Matt Martinez brought me back into the indie vinyl world and I got hooked on 7 inches and indie rock LPs, along with all the other stuff.

I got my first credit card (bad) and went nuts. I think I lived in the Waterloo vinyl annex the first two years of school. I started tagging along with Jef and Aaron at the radio station, and since I kept buying all these records, they kept letting me play them. It started with a few selections here and there, then after a short while, it was me picking a shitload of the tunes to the point where I think most of what we played was from my crates. The radio station was my sanctuary and the records were my scriptures. The combination of that show, that credit card, my familiarity with getting vinyl from tiny days, and depression basically made me the obsessed beast that I am now. The radio shows pushed the addiction over the top. It's only gotten worse since. I went from having like 10-20 records left (not including all the pop stuff from my early years) before college, to the high hundreds in my early college years. Then I got into the game side of radio, and hundreds turned to thousands and now shit is out of control.

As for DJing, I'd say Hip-Hop had me curious about DJing from the first time I really registered what a scratch was. I got my first table in college, in a fuck-the-world fit of depressed angst. Bought it brand new from Circuit City on credit, and had that lone table for the duration of my college years. I didn't get my second table until I moved to Fort Worth, altho I had dabbled in mixing a little bit before I left Austin. Man, I remember back then, getting two turntables in the same place was like an impossible mission. All my friends were college broke, and all our shit was on some bootleg, janky shit. When we did get our shit together, I was always really interested in mixing, and never really took to scratching much. I've always been into putting together sets that have certain moods and that have a certain flow to them. I used to think that way with the radio shows even tho I couldn't mix. I wanted to find the songs that sounded good next to each other. I respect the shit out of scratching, but I just never took to it.

I got into DJing after I left Austin, and it's snowballed into an ever-expanding obsession ever since. The name DJs that most inspired me to become a DJ were Sammy B, Flash, Plug Three, JMJ, and Premo. Later it would be the Piklz and the Junkies, with J-Rocc at the top of the list. Of course, Jef, JD and Cipher probably had the biggest influence on me overall. But if I had to pick one Hip-Hop name to associate with my crush on DJing, I'd have to go with Baby Bam, 'cause Sammy B's presence on the first two Jungle Brothers records was so so strong. And I lived and died by them two albums, man.

Okay, that's more than y'all are interested in, so I'll stop there. Getting late, and I got some other rambles to take care of.

Proper thread, tho. For real."

Lil Tiger runnin' thangs, fa real.

Some dj dates

2005-02-01T08:19:00.000-08:00

All right you macks and mackettes, the incognito smug genius, deejay chief rocker hollywood starsign will be manning the decks on these dates:

Tuesday Feb.01 at Red Fez (spinning fat beats, hip hop and big joints)
Saturday Feb.05 at Factory People in store
Saturday Feb.05 at Gallery Lombardi (Scion Art Installation opening 6-10pm)
Tuesday Feb.08 at Red Fez (same as the week before)

News and Redesign

2005-01-30T22:11:00.000-08:00

I'm updating the starsigndesign site to feature more graphic designs. I'm trying to get more work so I gotta make sure to have a site that will truly reflect some of my current work. I will be playing alongside my homeslice, Chicken George, at the Scion Installation Art thing at Gallery Lombardi on Feb. 5th.

And to mark the occasion, I recorded myself practicing for the gig and will be selling that mix at the show, possibly even at other venues. It's a fully improvised mix and here's what's on it.

1. bomb the bass - bug powder dust (la funk mob remix edit)
2. jazzy jeff - a touch of jazz extended 12" version
3. junkyard band - sardines
4. rodney o and joe cooley - let's have some fun
5. art of noise - close to the edit
6. z 3 mcs - triple threat
7. junior - mama used to say instrumental
8. double d and steinski - lesson 2
9. rufus thomas - itch and scratch pt. 2
10. afrika bambaataa - jazzy sensation double d and steinski remix
11. de la soul - say no go
12. sly stone - crossword puzzle
13. blondie - rapture
14. chic- good times
15. ass # 3 - ???
16. serge gainsbourg - la horse
17. slave - watching you
18. snoop - let's get blown
19. justin timberwack - instrumental neptunes beat
20. amerie - one thing
21. j.lo - get right edit

BTW, Let's Get Blown and One Thing are my two favorite songs right now. Stay tuned for more news on the MoreTempo parties and future releases.

Hello 2005

2005-01-20T10:20:00.000-08:00

It's a new year, a fresh start for good things. I'm back from my European excursion, ripe with newfound passion and energy. The name of the game this year is "Focus". The Parakitachi MoreTempo parties are gonna kick off sometime soon, followed by original production in the form of soundtrack-esque, sublime beats (think Air, Fila Brazillia, DJ Shadow, Mum and Brian Eno). That has been a long time coming and now it's finally time.

Both the starsigndesign and parakitachi websites are going to be redesigned with a leaner coding structure to make updates easier. This is a short entry, but bigger things are coming, trust me.

D.

End of the Year wrap up

2004-12-23T15:16:00.000-08:00

As far as music was concerned, I was pretty lukewarm to it this year. Dancepunk, electro, and sampled music is everywhere now and it's less exciting. This is no way a best of list or anything, just things that I enjoyed (old and new, music and non).

1. End of The Century: Ramones documentary... thrilling and sad at the same time
2. Ocean's 12: It's all eye candy, but I loved the remake of O11 and this one is fun to watch.
3. The Go! Team: funky fun as shit live garage rock-cum-funk shit that will make you smile and shake your ya yas.
4. Bob Dylan Chronicles: He's one of my heroes and wish I had the balls he did.
5. Keepintime, Product Placement and In Tune On Time DVDs: cuz I'm a DJ nerd.
6. Phoenix: Everything is Everything... this is up there with "I I Ever Feel Better", but not as happy.
7. Hanging out backstage when Wilco played ACL fest. What can I say, longtime fan.
8. Watching The Office for the first time.
9. Playing on the same bill as the legendary Pete Rock!
10. Rediscovering The Clash: I liked their first album a lot and a few singles, but this year I finally really got into their entire catalog and DAMN! these boys were on it. The dub shit and beat stuff is my favorite.

Some of my personal faves... Rudie Can't Fail, First Night Back In London, Spanish Bombs, Wrong Em Boyo, Career Opportunities (the kiddie version), Junco Partner, Police On My Back, Overpowered By Funk, Magnificent Seven, Radio Clash, The Leader, Armagideon Time, Police and Thieves, Version City.

I'm full on a Clash kick, the same way I was with Bowie, Velvet Underground, Dylan and Can a few years ago.

More news when I get back from Europe!

More News:

2004-12-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

My new CD is out. It's called "Out To Play" and is currently available at Waterloo Records and Factory People. What's on it? My usual eclectic mix of anything that sounds good.

Rolling Stones on some Fingerprints, TOBE on some Superstar, Gil Scott talking about The Bottle, the woody woodpecker inspired hip-house remix of a Saturday fiasco featuring them De La kids, Bustin Nuts with Herbaliser, then it gets into a quick mix tribute set to some of my favorite rock and newave songs. Bowie, The Beat, U2, Billy Idol, ELO all mixed in, plus more delights. Full tracklisting soon.

I'm also really feeling The Go! Team. Go! check them out.

I will be manning the decks at Whisky Bar on Sunday 12/18 for some party that may or may not be private. more news later.

Some DJ Dates

2004-11-19T20:15:00.000-08:00

11/18/2004 @ Factory People for The Donna's instore signing thingamajig.
11/27/2004 @ Rent (in Houston) www.upsidedownhouse.com
12/04/2004 @ The Casino B-Day Bash (it's a private party)

12/06/2004 @ Firehouse Lounge (cultured beats, rare groove and hip hop)
12/10/2004 @ Factory People (In Store)

12/11/2004 @ Whisky Bar (for Bigsteppin' under the alias Young Adorable Huggy Smut)
12/17/2004 @ Factory People (In Store)

top tunes

2004-09-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

This is a list of songs that either influenced me, changed the way I felt about music or just have a special place in my heart.

I'll try to do this according to how old I was (starting at around age 5) but I'm probably gonna go all over the place near the end.

ready? here we go!

America: Horse With No Name
10CC: I'm Not In Love
Queen: We Are The Champions
The Beatles: A Day In The Life / For The Benefit Of Mister Kite
Mott The Hoople: All The Young Dudes
Carl Carlton: Everlasting Love
Joe Jackson: Stepping Out
Billy Joel: Pressure
Blondie: Rapture
The Clash: Train In Vain
Hall and Oates: Maneater / I Can't Go For That
Culture Club: Karma Chameleon / Time
Duran Duran: Save A Prayer
The Police: Walking On The Moon / King Of Pain

Michael Jackson: Off The Wall / PYT
The English Beat: Save It For Later
Madness: Our House
World's Famous Supreme Team: Hey DJ
Chaka Khan: I Feel For You
LL Cool J: Rock The Bells
Run DMC: My Adidas
Dougie Fresh: The Show
Salt n Pepa: Tramp
Beastie Boys: Hold It Now, Hit It
Led Zepplin: The Rain Song
Boston: Don't Look Back
Steely Dan: Deacon Blues
Eagles: One Of These Nights
Doobie Brothers: Listen To The Music

Tears For Fears: Head Over Heals
A-ha: Take On Me
Til Tuesday: Voices Carry
Depeche Mode: People Are People
Split Enz: I Got You
Haircut One Hundred: Love Plus One
Yes: Owner Of A Lonely Heart
U2: I Will Follow / New Year's Day / Seconds
The Smiths: Well I Wonder / How Soon Is Now / The Queen Is Dead / Wonderful Woman
The Cure: Just Like Heaven / How Beautiful You Are / A Night Like This / Hot Hot Hot
INXS: I Need You Tonight
Echo and the Bunnymen: Lips Like Sugar / The Rescue / The Cutter
Ministry: Everyday Is Halloween / Faith Collapsing / Flashback
Nitzer Ebb: Smear Body / Join In The Chant
Poise Noire: Pity For Thyself
My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult: Daisychain 4 Satan / Kooler Than Jesus

Depeche Mode: Black Celebration / Stripped / Never Let Me Down Again / New Dress
BDP: My Philosophy
Sandra: Secret Land
Xymox: Imagination
The Cult: She Sells Sanctuary / Rain
Nine Inch Nails: Terrible Lie / Down In It
The Pixies: Monkey Gone To Heaven / Wave of Mutilation / Where Is My Mind / La La Love You / No. 13 Baby / Debaser / Mr. Grieves / Crackity Jones
Stone Roses: I Wanna Be Adored / I Am The Resurection / She Bangs The Drums
Primal Scream: Loaded / Higher Than The Sun / Don't Fight It Feel It / Shine Like Stars
Meat Beat Manifesto: Psyche Out / Dogstarman
Ultramarine: Saratoga
Cocteau Twins: Pink Orange Red / Cherry-coloured Funk / Caroline's Fingers
Slowdive: Primal / Dagger / Souvlaki Space Station / She Calls
Cranes: Beautiful Friend
the orb: Blue Room
Verve: Where The Geese Go / A Man Called Sun

Diamond: Sally's Got a One Track Mind
Souls Of Mischief: 93 till Infinity
Pete Rock and CL Smooth: T.R.O.Y.
Gangstarr: Just To Get A Rep
Cypress Hill: Phunky Feel One / Hand On The Pump
Ice Cube: Dead Homies / Burn Hollywood Burn / Steadymobbin / Jackin For Beats
Del: Mista Dobalina

Albums:
ATCQ: People's Instinctive... / Low End Theory / Midnight Mauraders
De La Soul: 3 Feet High and Rising / De La Soul Is Dead
Beastie Boys: Paul's Boutique
Public Enemy: It Takes a Nation of Millions... / Fear Of A Black Planet
Eric B and Rakim: Paid In Full
Gangstarr: Daily Operation
Cocteau Twins: Blue Bell Knoll / Victorialand
David Bowie: The Man Who Fell To Earth / Hunky Dory / Ziggy Stardust / Aladdin Sane
Can: Future Days
The Beatles: Entire Catalog
Wilco: Being There / Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Fila Brazillia: Maim That Tune