It got a little intense at Humbrews on March 22.
The venue was intense. The walls were sweating, the sound was loud, the floor was slick and unforgiving. It didn’t feel packed, but it was solid — like water just before it boils.
The audience was intense. Sold out almost immediately. People who wanted to be there to party and dance. Some serious first-timers and a load of soul night veterans. The combination was electric — the floor was undulating from the get-go.
Even the DJs are getting more intense. Every party seems to be an improvement in planning, sound, sonic combinations, mixing and theatrics.
T-Rex had some great records — a great compliment to the party. Jay Morg celebrated his birthday with some of his favorite tracks. Some soul night classics he loves to play and a couple of new killer tracks. I played an all-woman set that was so much fun and really well received. Matt and Adam brought exactly nine 45s each and then destroyed the club. These guys have some good records!
DJ Mantease. Ah Mantease. The secret weapon. The electricity and courage to just take the party to the next level. He told me that he practiced this set once or twice. I’m totally convinced. It was an awesome collection of Cumbia and eclectic bangers.
I usually keep my playlists, but this time I gave it to Adam to protect his 45s. Here is what I think I played (not in order):
Ann Peebles – I can’t stand the rain
Sugar Pie DeSanto Soulful Dress
Naomi Shelton Promised land
Marva Whitney I’m tired, I’m tired, I’m tired
Betty Wright – let me be your lovemaker
Gladys Knight – got myself a good man
Gladys Knight – You need love like I do (don’t you)
Gladys Knight – nitty gritty
Sugarpie DeSanto – Git back
Aretha Franklin – the house that jack built
Aretha Franklin – since you’ve been gone
Phoebe Snow – shine, shine shine
Tina Turner – As long as I can get you
The Coup – laugh, love, fuck
Three-song Gladys Knight and the Pips set is a conclusive answer to the question does Gladys Knight slay in 2012?
I love this party and I feel great about the growing popularity. We throw a peaceful, woman-friendly, musically diverse, cheap, all-vinyl, multifaceted shindig. It is very exciting that people want to join. Lets keep the love flowing. Join us on April 20th for a sixth and special incarnation of the party at Humbrews.
Life of refinement 