July 30, 2015
There’s a world-renowned film festival going on, plenty of amazing DJs are manning the decks, and there are parties all the way through Sunday night to keep you dancing.
4th Annual BlackStar Film Festival (Day 1), International House Philadelphia
The BlackStar Film Festival is a weekend-long celebration of films by and about people of African descent. Some of the events are free and some of them require RSVP, so check the schedule to see what’s going on throughout the jam-packed weekend schedule. The festival kicks off with a panel called “Black Women and Indie Film,” which will be moderated by curator/producer Elissa Blount-Moorhead ("Dreams Are Colder Than Death").
Times/event costs vary, check schedule for details
Cajmere with Dave P., The Dolphin
Few names are more closely intertwined with the history of house and techno music than Chicago’s legendary Cajmere, who also produces and performs under the name Green Velvet. With countless mega-hits under his belt, this will be an amazing opportunity to see a dominant festival headliner own a small room. It is indeed time for the percolator – this one should be sweaty!
9 p.m.–2 a.m., $15
All Natural featuring Worthy & Chris B, Rumor
One of the original artists on the world-famous Dirtybird label, Worthy has carved out his very own lane by fusing the sounds of bass, house and hip-hop together into a slick and sexy chest-thumping sound. No frills, no cover and a very relaxed dress code, plus an opening set from yours truly. I’ll buy you a drink if you come say hello!
10 p.m. - 2 a.m., free
Contradictions presented by Cult Classic & Don Scott, Urban Art Gallery
Cult Classic is a Philly-based streetwear and lifestyle brand that also throws great events and parties. Contradictions will showcase Cult Classic’s new hat collaboration with U.K. brand Biffo Co. and will also feature a photo exhibition from Decades Hat Co. co-wonder Brooks Bell while Quite Hype and DC’s Cam Dooley provide the soundtrack. Complimentary drinks are included with admission.
8 p.m.–midnight, $10
BODYROCK Official BlackStar Afterparty w/ special guest Rich Medina, Franky Bradley's
Held down for years by the ever-talented Illvibe Collective, BODYROCK is a genre-busting, dancefloor-centric, put-your-phone-away-and-dance party. This should be a packed event, as the party moves into its new home at the snazzy upstairs of Franky Bradley’s and boss-selector Rich Medina takes the helm to rock the official afterparty for the aforementioned BlackStar Film Festival.
9 p.m.–2 a.m., $5 before 11 p.m., $7 after
Scratch DJ Academy Presents WIDE, featuring Cosmo Baker, DJ Coolout and Yolo Ono, Underground Arts
World-renowned DJ school Scratch DJ Academy is expanding to Philadelphia in late 2015 with its sixth North American location and is putting on this unique show featuring a diverse lineup of some of the best DJs in the city. You already know Cosmo Baker is going to kill it, but make sure you get there early to get in on the Jack Daniel's drink specials and sets from production wizard DJ Coolout and Factory Girls crew Yolo Ono.
9 p.m.–2 a.m., free
BASE MATTER #2, AUX Performance Space
Some amazing experimental art and music collide for BASE MATTER, held in the performance space of Eraserhood gallery Vox Populi. Featuring five musical performances from Future Blondes, Breathing Problem, How I Quit Crack, Skullcaster and Gene Pick, as well as works from multimedia artist Jamie Fletcher, come out and check out something different in support of some amazing artists.
8 p.m., $7-$10 at the door
Top ranking general of the infamous Bad Budz Club, Dave Tidey takes the helm at the hallowed grounds of the Medusa Lounge basement. There are plenty of hands on deck to join in the debauchery of this one, which will also feature DJ sets from Tony Modica, Jim Moran, Brian Cassidy, Jeffrey Bouchard and Jason Hunter.
10 p.m.–2 a.m., free
The Magic Message Presents Fort Romeau, The Dolphin
Fort Romeau has proven to be one of the most buzzworthy electronic producers of late, with stellar releases on Matthew Dear’s Ghostly International, and LA-based 100% Silk fueling a busy tour schedule. If you haven’t already, check out his new album "Insides," and get ready for a night of raw energy and dancing. Opening vibes and choice selections from The Magic Message.
9 p.m.–2 a.m., $8 advance tickets, $10 at the door
Grimace Federation Vinyl Release Party, Kung Fu Necktie
Who doesn’t love a good old vinyl record these days? Head out to KFN to celebrate the brand-new release from three-piece "blisscore" group Grimace Federation. The party will also feature performances from Beard O Bees, Colma and Crouse. Rumor has it there will be free pizza all night, too!
9 p.m.–2 a.m., $5
The Summer of Minions featuring Larry T and Mo Kobeissi, Infusion Lounge
Does the summer heat have you feeling like a minion!?!? Head to Old City’s Infusion Lounge for a night of house music, hookahs and a ton of drink specials in celebration of manager Erion’s birthday to cool off and party. No minion party would be complete without themed décor and minion party favors, so consider yourself warned. As a sidenote, imagine all the amazing things you could do with the marketing budget of "Minions."
9 p.m. - 2 a.m., $5 cover with advanced RSVP
Slit Jockey Records 10 Years of Grime Tour, Silk City
Everyone is hyped about grime right now after Skepta went on stage with Kayne West, but Slit Jockey Records has been purveyors of the sound for 10 years now, showing just how ahead of the curve the Philly label really is. Helmed by producers Starkey, Dev79 and El Carnicero, Slit Jockey has received a slew of press recently around its 10-year anniversary and has been featured on nearly every major electronic music site. London veteran Spooky is a special guest on the mini-tour, which will also feature sets from the label bosses Starkey, Dev79, El Carnicero and the most excellent Si Young.
9 p.m.–2 a.m., $5-$8
2nd Street Festival Shakedown, featuring Marques Wyatt, North Bowl
The 2nd Street Festival is definitely one of the most fun events of the year; if you’re in town on Sunday, you definitely want to head to Northern Liberties and check it out! The Shakedown crew will be providing both reggae and house sounds, with a special set from LA native and house music legend Marques Wyatt and support from disco don Del, Emby bosses Maggs Bruchez and reggae selectors Jahkey Chalice and Heights.
Outdoor tent: noon–10 p.m., indoor afterhours: 10 p.m.–2 a.m., free
