If you didn’t already know, London is currently being shaken by a new-wave afro explosion. Dele Sosimi, Afrospot, The Soothsayers, Eric Soul….the list goes on.

Not afraid to step beyond the borders of Afro-Funk, Yaaba Funk are one of the more interesting shards of the aforementioned afro bomb. If you know Heads High, you should know Yaaba Funk from a heavy NYE basement session we collaborated on in East’ London’s ‘Life‘ venue (word to Kato!). if you don’t yet know Yaaba, you’re in for a treat. Peep the sample stream below, check the video and if you like what you hear, head over to SHOOK to investigate the interview I recently did with them…

….and the event? Deep South runnings courtesy of Jamie Renton and his Chilli Fried machine…

I’ve always loved basements. I’m not sure that says anything good about my spirit, but there’s something about real music in a basement that makes me smile. Our Marketplace basement sessions have evolved into something I’m proud of. We’ve somehow managed to create a night where we can play pretty much what we want…..right in the centre of London….not easy.

If you hadn’t noticed, we’re only in the place every two months now so each session is a little more special. This month, we’re swapping the glitz of the golden pyramids (and Amaka’s golden legwear!) with the shine of brass in the shape of the 12 Tone Brass Band. If you’ve been following the progress of the 12 Tone camp and their growing army of heavyweight bands, you’ll know that 12 Tone Brass are a hot prospect. Come see what happens when we add six men, one drum kit and a whole heap of brass to the usual basement bubble.

Its a Heads High session so DJ pressure comes as standard. This time its a strictly residents affair with Duke Etienne, Cal Jader, DJ Judge and Miss Crawford in the area. Microphone blessings come courtesy of Connie Bell….and it’s all FREE!

Remember, it’s our last MP session of 2009 so don’t sleep!

Here’s a little sampler of 12 Tone Brass at the 606 Jazz basement style….i’ve never seen them in suits before…

… Yes, Yes, I know: the hype is done and dusted BUT that doesn’t stop Michael Jackson being the legend that he is and will be for generations to come.

Whatever your thoughts are, this Saturday (29th)  and Sunday (30th), Jazz Cafe have decided to host a sincere tribute to the greatest entertainer that ever lived. Calling a spade, a spade: the line-up is dope. This s**t is beyond the hype.

You have got: Eric Roberson and Phonte (Little Brother/ Foreign Exchange) presenting the night… This alone will be well worth the investment. But then you’ve got performances coming from an array of artists who’s contributions to music are worthy of recognition in their own rights. From ‘late disco-early house music’ diva, Kim Mazelle to Chris Ballin who’s worked with megastars such as Chaka Khan and Pink Floyd. For more artist lineup info, click here.

I have a feeling this tribute will go beyond the ‘Thrillers’ and ‘Man in the Mirrors’ to delve into some of MJ’s hidden gems that slipped under the radar. So this will be a true fan’s opportunity to be educated in the rarer selection from his extensive discography.

Above all… The music is guaranteed to be massive. So why not?
Click here for more details.

Check this out:

RIP MJ