5 Magazine

5 Magazine Radio Show - Mar 12 2010

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:45:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Cz's Night Out Blog: New York, New York

Tue, 9 Mar 2010 16:58:00 CST

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of getting away to one of my favorite cities in the whole world: New York City. Staying in the same East Village sublet I've stayed at for the past 3 years, I got to just relax and get away from it all ...

New Mix Monday: Groove Junkies

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 16:59:00 CST

Now represented by founding member Evan Landes in a solo capacity, Los Angeles Groove Junkies are building on a phenomenal catalog of original productions, mixes and sets with a brand new album titled In the Zone...

Music Reviews: DJ Sneak + Soydan: The Latin Kardes EP

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 17:35:00 CST

Waterford, Ireland-based label Yakuza is hittin' to win with this fire release. Label boss Soydan teams up with House Music captain DJ Sneak for a super slammin' motion maker of a release. The release kicks off with...

Music Reviews: The House Inspectors: Doing It My Way EP

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 17:35:00 CST

Hot to trot new jacks on the scene The House Inspectors are making waves all the way from Adelaide, Australia across the underground. After a stellar release on Guesthouse Music they keep the fire burning with their Doing It My Way EP...

Music Reviews: Gabriel Black: "Chorduroy"

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 17:35:00 CST

Does a West Coast sound exist today? Certainly with people like Miguel Migs around, we're always going to talk about it, but the internet is leveling the old regional accents that we became accustomed to and maybe that's not a bad thing...

New Mix Monday: Halo

Wed, 3 Mar 2010 12:46:00 CST

Halo made his name here in Chicago in the loft scene and clubs in the early- to mid-1990s...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Feb 26 2010

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:36:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Music Reviews: Various: When Bad People Cook Good Food Volume Two

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:51:00 CST

Mazi and Nathan Drew Larsen are working overtime in the kitchen - hardly a month goes by without fresh meat and their creations never fail to impress me. The signature Fresh Meat sound...

Music Reviews: Baainar Theme (Eltonnick Remixes)

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:51:00 CST

I'd love to review music all month, but if there were more records than the market could support in the past, we're being positively deluged today. 5 Magazine receives on average 200 to 250 tracks a month...

Music Reviews: Cubik + Origami: Bought + Sold

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:51:00 CST

San Francisco-based Prismatic Tracks has been making a waves in House Music with the unconventional and broad range of styles that they purvey. Prismatic staples...

Music Reviews: Matthew Bandy ft. Jonathan Houston: Going Nowhere

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:51:00 CST

Concept and execution? Pretty darn good. If you like a smooth sound and chill, elevating nights where maybe not everyone dances (but definitely grooves) and the crowd lets its troubles...

The Martinez Brothers: The 5 Magazine Interview

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:51:00 CST

Bursting onto the scene almost four years ago at the tender ages of 13 and 16, the Bronx-born Martinez Brothers Chris and Steve have infused new blood and hope in what many see as a plateauing scene. Much hoopla has been made of their youth, but anyone seeing them live on the tables knows they're the real deal....

Cz's Night Out Blog: Louie Vega with Anane at Red Dog and Other Parties

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 07:58:00 CST

... ...

New Mix Monday: GIOM

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 10:17:00 CST

Born and raised in Niort, France, GIOM now lives in London, producing and remixing some of the most exquisite House releases of the last five years. Hes released music on Motion, OM, Aroma, Blackcherry and Kolour. Instead of the usual rehashed bio, we're experimenting with a QandA format for our New Mix Monday series, and GIOM graciously volunteered to be interrogated by yours truly. The full playlist is located below...

New Mix Monday: Gramophonedzie

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:00:00 CST

Gramophonedzie is a native of Belgrade, Serbia and has been DJing for more than 15 years. His jazzy hit Why Don't You was a worldwide smash, establishing him on the international House circuit and leading to his signing with Virgin/Positiva Records...

Jamie Lewis: The 5 Magazine Interview

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:53:00 CST

From Switzerland, Jamie Lewis has been rocking the tables and carrying the flag for House Music for more than 20 years. As a producer and remixer, he's responsible for dozens of instantly recognized songs - dancefloor anthems embedded with a spiritual message - both of his own creation and those of others released on his Purple Music imprint...

Music Reviews: Various: Disco Whipped EP

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:55:00 CST

Listening to the mesmerizing horn come in on Pete le Freq's Rise makes being up at 10:47 pm totally tolerable and even enjoyable, despite the looming 5:30 am alarm. Throw in the funky bassline, hi-hat and keys and you'll decide to call in sick, 'cause you're goin' dancin'. This fifth Lowercase...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Julie McKnight, Running and Limited Partying

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:19:00 CST

So I've pretty much limited my going out days to Thursdays (our residency called URBAN'S HOUSE at Betty's) and Saturdays at Red Dog. There really isn't a whole lot to do the rest of the week...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Feb 09 2010

Tue, 9 Feb 2010 09:45:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

New Mix Monday: Armando Gallop Tribute

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 17:04:00 CST

Two years ago, 5 Magazine published a tribute to one of Chicago House Music's legendary figures: DJ, producer, promoter, and Warehouse Records label founder Armando Gallop (aka DJ Armando). Including interviews with friends such as Paul Johnson, Mike Dunn, Farley Jackmaster Funk, Terry Hunter, Eric Martin as well as fans, this remains one of the most popular features we've ever done, proving that more than 13 years after his tragic death, Armando remains one of the most influential figures House Music history...

Event Preview: Armando Gallop Tribute at Betty's

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 17:04:00 CST

The shadow of Armando Gallop looms as large as ever over the city of Chicago and the electronic music community. Known simply as Armando on flyers and wax, Gallop was one of the most influential figures in the 2nd wave of House...

Kid Sister and Cajmere Interview

Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:19:00 CST

Creative people gravitate towards each other naturally, and when it comes to two artists that are known to crossover musical genres it's no surprise that House icon Cajmere and hiphop diva Kid Sister would come together. Their new track Everybody Wants is a groovy, infectious dancefloor hit that can only come from the crossbreeding of two innovative players...

Music Reviews: Tortured Soul: "In My Fantasy"

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:07:00 CST

A Tortured Soul single is less a product than a happening, in the hippie era sense of the word. The boys spare no expense and overload the package with some of the top remixers in the business...

Music Reviews: The Chosen Few DJs: "The Theme" (Terry Hunter Original Mix)

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:07:00 CST

Fat fucking beats pounding, a serpentine groove and everything but the afros for the first release by Chicago crew The Chosen Few...

5 Magazine @ The Winter Music Conference in Miami, 2010

Wed, 3 Feb 2010 21:18:00 CST

Promo guide for 5 Magazine's March 2010 issue...

Music Reviews: Jay West + Ingrid Hakanson: "Funny Things"

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 19:09:00 CST

Jay West, Argentina's favorite underground House son, teams up with Vancouver's House Music vocal seamstress Ingrid Hakanson on Jay's own imprint Candy Music to bring us...

Music Reviews: Easy Street: "Dancin'"

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 19:09:00 CST

Los Angeles's HAWT music crew is back at it again with their second fire release. This time around they are giving us Easy Street which is made up of Easily Influenced combo Mikey Velazquez...

5 Magazine February 2010 Issue Released

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 15:44:00 CST

The February 2010 issue of 5 Magazine featuring interviews with Anane, Louie Vega, 1200 Warriors, Pirate Radio, Gramophonedzie, Halo, GIOM, Armando Gallop and more...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Jan 29 2010

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 13:57:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Dennis Ferrer: Embracing the Future

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:46:00 CST

Ever since his debut album The World as I See It came out in 2006, Dennis Ferrer's name has been synonymous with sounds that are innovative, fresh and borderline risky, reaching success via a slow burn. His music has Tech and Deep House lovers grooving to the same beat, which is no easy feat in today's uber-divisive House genre. In November of this year his song Hey Hey was officially released on his own label Objektivity, serving as a teaser for his upcoming album The More Things Change...

DJ Spinna: The Boogie Back

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:46:00 CST

Let's go back now, to the period after Disco was purged from the airwaves but before House Music was born. Musicologists have dubbed this urban musical outpost Boogie Music, dominated by the Funk and Soul artists of the era including Foxy, Slyck and WAR...

Music Reviews: DJ Spinna: The Boogie Back

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:29:00 CST

Funk? Soul? Disco? Some crazy vocal lines? Yeah, this has it - all. If you're a a fan of groovy Disco House - mostly on the slower side (120-ish), you gotta grab this...

Music Reviews: Sean McCabe ft. Adeola Ranson: "A Little More Love"

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:29:00 CST

A Little More Love has been circulating (legally or not, I couldn't tell you) for what seems like a year, and finally gets its official debut. This is strictly on the Deep House side of the fence...

Music Reviews: Dave Miller ft. Kelly Hayden: Winding Rhodes EP

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:29:00 CST

Dave Miller puts together four slabs of heavy Deep House here, built largely around the strong vocal of Kelly Hayden...

New Mix Monday: The Martinez Brothers

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:23:00 CST

New York City sensations Chris and Steve Martinez of The Martinez Brothers are taking the world by storm. The teenage duo have received support from some of the biggest names in House Music and we're thrilled to provide a platform for them to show their skills in this week's New Mix Monday set from 5 Magazine...

Music Reviews: DJ Sneak: "Getting Crazy In The Ghetto"

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 04:58:00 CST

Guesthouse Music stands tall with another solid vinyl release. GM is one of the few labels of its niche in House Music still pushing vinyl in the recently overwhelming digital age of music. This release features House phenom DJ Sneak who is still bringin' it with his signature style of dance floor House bangers...

Music Reviews: Jackin' Box: Scrilla Villa EP

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 04:58:00 CST

While nothing can tear me away from my Gospel House, these would force me to reconsider my love for sunshineJesus for at least a few minutes. The info with this EP mentions another JB track...

Music Reviews: Kinky Movement: "Size 1"

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 04:58:00 CST

Kinky Boots is a brand new bootleg label coming from Nottingham, UK's Kinky Movement. Size 1 is the first edition of what is looking to be a really fun and well put together bootleg series. The solid production stylings of the Kinky crew give us two great boots here. The first tune Clownin' Around is a playful House version...

Cz's Night Out Blog: DJ Rush Birthday Party

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 17:28:00 CST

Last Thursday Jan. 7th our weekly residency Urban's House brought back the wonderful DJ Rush to not only celebrate his birthday party (because he wanted to do it at our party :), but also to witness an amazing 5 hour disco set by him!...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Jan 15 2010

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 17:28:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Music Reviews: Bryan Jones: Face It EP

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:28:00 CST

A sneaky, sinister bassline punctuates the original mix of the title track of Bryan Jones' new Face It EP on his own Control Recordings...

Music Reviews: John Morales: The M + M Mixes

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:28:00 CST

When you think of a DJ named Morales out of New York City, you can be forgiven for thinking of David first. John Morales - half of the famous M + M production team - has been out of the music industry for some years, and the sort of remix niche he carved out of the hindquarters of the music industry in the 1980s doesn't really exist anymore...

Music Reviews: Inland Knights + Larry Fives ft. Nica Brooke: Sticky Fingers EP

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:28:00 CST

Drop Music is still at it after all these years with their 66th release. One of UK's finest House labels (run by House maestros Inland Knights) changes gears a bit with this release and brings us an EP with more of a deep tech vibe...

In the Mix: Korg WAVEDRUM

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:46:00 CST

Originally released in 1994, the Korg WAVEDRUM percussion synth revolutionized live performance with its versatility, unique sound modeling and nearly perfect audio quality. Though increasingly rare, the original version 1.0 with its classic (and real) drumhead design is still in the kit of many who work in live performance. This month Korg is bringing the old workhorse back and updating the design for the 21st century...

In the Mix: JBL Roxy Reference 430 Overear Headphones

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:46:00 CST

JBL makes terrific sound products at a decent price, and their latest JBL Roxy RE430 headphones created a stir with their hot pink-over-orange and slightly less garish green-over-blue (pictured) over-the-ear headphones...

In the Mix: Shure SE115m+ Headset

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:46:00 CST

The original ShureSE115 headphones received rave reviews for sound quality in an inexpensive hands-free headset. The latest model is optimized especially for 3rd and 4th generation iPods and Apple's iPhone 3GS...

New Mix Monday: Grant Nelson

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:52:00 CST

Tracks like In My Soul and Together made Grant Nelson almost synonymous with the sound of UK garage in the 1990s. His label Nice n Ripe became a touchstone for...

Music Reviews: Mike Dunn ft. The Beat Gorillaz: "The Boy Beats on His Drum" (the MD Remixes)

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:17:00 CST

Beat this shit with both hands! If you're a longtime reader, you know that MD first released this track on our WMC sampler in 2008. He told me a few months later that he had reports that it had hit in Amsterdam and now you can rock it too with these new mixes courtesy of Kenny Dope's Dope Wax...

Music Reviews: Haldo + Morrisson: "When We Get Up"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:17:00 CST

Haldo is identified by many with the signature sound of Brazil's Grooveland Music. He steps out some on this heavily RandB influenced track. The vocal reminds me a bit of Chicago's Russoul and the production on the original mix doesn't stray far...

Music Reviews: Nathan Drew Larsen: "Gotahavejor Love" (Remixes)

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:17:00 CST

Quite a few labels are taking the innovative approach shown here and giving jocks something new when they release their back catalog in digital format. This track was originally released under the nym...

Music Reviews: Latenight Society: "Do It Right"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:17:00 CST

Classic House sound from Orlando via the UK's Lost My Dog imprint with a stopover in Chicago along the way. Do It Right features a muted vocal and the original mix is a groovy organ-driven number...

Music Reviews: Matt Veloce: "Let's Get Some Love/Come On"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:17:00 CST

Here we have a solid freshman release by this young man from Minneapolis. Two tracks here are equally nice, with simple and subtle disco grooves that are done very tastefully. Terrence Parker...

Music Reviews: Dutchican Soul: "Get On Down"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:04:00 CST

Netherlands duo Dutchican Soul really turn it out on this rockin' new release from Miguel Migs' fantastic Salted imprint. The duo's classic House style takes...

Music Reviews: Dennis Ferrer: "Hey Hey!"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:04:00 CST

We have another potential blockbuster with this cut. Hot on the heels of his Strictly Rhythm release Sinfonia Della Notte (which is still in heavy rotation around the globe), Dennis brings it home to his Objektivity label...

Music Reviews: Chemars: "Getcha Hustle On"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:04:00 CST

The original is perfect if you dig the funk. Quick saxophone honks and simple keys drift in and out of this one. There's some odd, guitar-like break for 16 bars, which I'd never like on its own but it somehow fits perfectly...

Music Reviews: All Good Funk Alliance: Sock It To The Man EP

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:04:00 CST

Super Hi-Fi, sister label to Funk Weapons and brought to you by the All Good Funk Alliance and friends is off to a great groove with its upbeat style of combining house, breaks, and funk...

Music Reviews: Mousse T. + Suzie: "All Night Long (D.I.S.C.O.)" Remixes

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:04:00 CST

This is the second installment of this title; the initial release came out back in July. If you didn't check out the first set of mixes, you might have missed the Milton Jackson version but the overall package...

Music Reviews: Luke Alan: "Step One"

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:04:00 CST

Los Angeles's burgeoning House scene brings us another deep selection from native label SOWAT. Luke Alan of LA's acclaimed HAWT crew, known for pushing the underground House sounds with their killer underground parties and club events...

DJ Sneak: The 5 Magazine Interview

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 15:38:00 CST

Interview with DJ Sneak on the eve of the release of his House of House album...

5 Magazine January 2010 Issue Released

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 03:54:00 CST

The January 2010 issue of 5 Magazine featuring interviews with Kid Sister and Cajmere, The Martinez Brothers, Jamie Lewis, Johnny Fiasco, Grant Nelson and more...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Manila My Home :)

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 15:45:00 CST

I finally got to go back to my family home in Manila, Philippines after a 3-year absence. Me and my brothers were supposed to go last year, but that was also the time of the big economic crash, and needless to say our family was not immune to the ubiquitous losses that devastated everyone. Thankfully things are getting better and we were able to visit our parents once again...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Jan 4 2010

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 14:48:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Event Preview: DJ Rush Birthday at Betty's

Sun, 3 Jan 2010 23:06:00 CST

After a billion gigs and a zillion miles in the air, DJ Rush still treats each set as if it might be his last. Now living in Berlin, Rush will be returning to Chicago on January 7th for a blow-out birthday celebration, playing that old school House and Disco from the days of the Reactor and Medusa's that launched him into the stratosphere...

Event Preview: Omar S. at SmartBar

Sun, 3 Jan 2010 23:06:00 CST

Omar S. is living proof that you can make waves in the music biz today and still keep your soul intact. The Detroit producer and DJ has established his own sound (not quite deep, techno or minimal but a unique blend of all three) that many characterize with the early days of Chicago and Detroit do-it-yourself music, which was less about fitting into a genre than making beats that turned you on...

Look at You: Label of the Year

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 12:02:00 CST

Look At You isn't a new label - it's been in rotation since pressing their first master about 13 years ago. It is however a new Chicago label...

Everybody Shake It: Song of the Year

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 12:02:00 CST

The hitmaker combo of yesteryear returned with a vengeance in 2009 as Shawn Christopher sang and Lego remixed Ralphi Rosario's Everybody Shake It on Blueplate Global Records...

Chosen Few Picnic: Event of the Year

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 14:54:00 CST

The crazy, souled-up Woodstock of House Music returned in 2009 as the Chosen Few DJ crew and several thousand of their closest friends gathered on the South Side of Chicago for this year's Chosen Few Picnic...

Mark de Clive-Lowe: The 5 Magazine Interview

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:09:00 CST

Half New Zealander and half Japanese, Mark de Clive-Lowe is currently one of the hottest names in dance and soul...

New Mix Monday: Sista Stroke

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:07:00 CST

Sista Stroke has released records on D'lectable, Dusttrax, Mother Tongue, Innuendo and Revolutionary Music...

Music Reviews: Various: Bring It Back Sampler

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

This small label from Northwest Indiana has been hammering out the releases (most recently one from yours truly titled Urban Renewal). Shameless plug aside, MWH returns with four tracks...

Music Reviews: Astor: Lessons

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

Hot new label Pin Up brings a groovy little number with their 12th release. Lessons has two versions...

Music Reviews: Various: Moho Vaults Vol 1 (Best of Morehouse)

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

A lot of labels view these type of packages as a way to squeeze a few more cents out of an old track, but when it's done right, a Best of compilation can really augment an imprint's reputation...

Music Reviews: Mustafa ft. Natalia: Circles 2009 (The Remixes)

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

A reissue and remix package of the Yellorange release Circles. Boddhi Satva seems to be remixing everything vaguely deep and techy these days...

Music Reviews: Kerri Chandler with Harley + Muscle: You Can't Lie

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

No doubt, Kerri Chandler remains one of the most versatile producers in the House scene. After several tracky releases and some reissues...

Music Reviews: Various: Liberate Recordings Sampler

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

There's all kinds of stuff going on in this four track sampler highlighting the recent work of Doc Link and Eman's Liberate Recordings...

Music Reviews: Vincent Kwok + DJN Project: Nowhere To Go

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

Late in 2008, I was sent a promo sheet extolling this crew called DJN Project and their intention to create an innovative blend of House and Hip-Hop. And I'm going to admit that I had kind of a bitter laugh about...

Music Reviews: Greg Cuoco: The Aqua-Disco EP

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 06:38:00 CST

This 3 song EP was a pleasant surprise slipped into the promo pile. All three tracks use nifty vocal samples and can be defined in the funky/new school genre, but are far more organic than the...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Dec 18, 2009

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:08:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Byrd Bardot: Door God of the Year

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:30:00 CST

One of the original clubkids, Byrd Bardot is now in self-described "semi-retirement". It should give you some idea of just how amazing he is that even in a state of repose, he's still our choice as 2009's Door God of the Year...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Japan Stopover

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:08:00 CST

So after meeting my 2 older brothers who flew in from the east coast to Chicago, we all board the same American Airlines flight to Tokyo to meet up with our dad. And just as we suspected, Asian Airlines are always 100% better than their American counterparts...

New Mix Monday: Richard Earnshaw

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:06:00 CST

Richard Earnshaw is the founder of Duffnote Recordings and renowned as one of the top producers and remixers on the planet...

Phil Hooton: The 5 Magazine Interview

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 03:40:00 CST

He didn't grow up in a Southside church or cut his teeth at a Deep South Baptist revival, but to hear Phil Hooton's music, you could certainly think so...

5 Questions with Pepper MaShay

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 03:40:00 CST

Pepper MaShay makes no bones about where you stand. Her music is big, her voice even bigger. If you look under the organizations she is affiliated with, you get the feeling that her voice is that big so those who can't speak for themselves get their...

DJ FLX: Breakthrough DJ of the Year

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:53:00 CST

Sometimes, DJs that have been on the scene for awhile sneak up on you. Whether you've slept on them or they really start to step up their game, you suddenly see this guy or girl everywhere, and you can't remember the last time you heard them play a bad set. This is our definition for something undefinable: our Breakthrough DJ of the Year. And our choice is DJ FLX...

Mark Grant: Remixer of the Year

Wed, 9 Dec 2009 14:38:00 CST

The true test of a remixer is when you know his sound even before you read the label or the liner notes. Mark Grant has established that definitive sound - a musical signature that you know the minute you hear it. With his edits of both high-profile and down-home local tracks in 2009, Mark Grant is our selection as Remixer of the Year...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Dancey-Dance

Tue, 8 Dec 2009 12:35:00 CST

This last Saturday was the big History of House part 3 event held at the House of Blues. The first 2 were held at the massive Congress Theater, but I think I prefer the more intimate setting of HOB...

New Mix Monday: Jay West

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 14:31:00 CST

From Argentina, Jay West is among the absolute elite figures in House Music from South America. His releases have come under a handful of aliases such as Pushing Boundaries with Matt Shrewd, Western Union, Shanty Town, The Golosines and with numerous collaborators - perhaps the best known is The Candy Dealers...

5 Magazine Radio Show - Dec 7, 2009

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 00:40:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Thanksgiving Holidays

Fri, 4 Dec 2009 13:38:00 CST

Wednesday night myself and David Sabat threw a Black Wednesday party called JIVE TURKEYS at Cuatro with DJs Gene Hunt...

Mike Dunn: DJ of the Year

Thu, 3 Dec 2009 13:25:00 CST

Since his return to House Music 2+ years ago, Mike Dunn has released a slew of tracks on Dope Wax, Defected and other top labels. But more to the point here, Mike's attacked the tables like a man possessed. From his Tuesday residency at Reynolds (every Tuesday night at 938 E. 75th St) to guest spots at just about every spot in the city with a pair of decks in it, Mike has represented the best tradition of House Music while remaining on the cutting edge, and thus was our pick for DJ of the Year...

Terry Hunter: Producer of the Year

Tue, 1 Dec 2009 14:41:00 CST

Terry Hunter was a man on a mission in 2009, burying DJs in an avalanche of hot tracks. His Mass Destruction collaborations with Kenny Dope and the blast of nine releases on his T's Box label made Terry, for us, the Producer of the Year...

Best of Chicago House 2009

Tue, 1 Dec 2009 14:41:00 CST

For more than four years, 5 Magazine has been covering House Music in the city where it was born. This year, for the first time, the editors of 5 came together to name the producers, the artists, the DJs, the venues and the people that we think made up the best of Chicago's House Music scene in 2009...

New Mix Monday: DJ Lady D

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 14:40:00 CST

Lady D (aka Darlene Jackson) has been on the scene as a DJ since 1995, and has toured in places such as Russia, Germany, Thailand as well as home in Chicago. As a producer and remixer, she's collaborated with the likes of Ron Carroll, Demarkus Lewis, Common Factor and Mark Grant...

5 Magazine December 2009 Issue Released

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:13:00 CDT

The December 2009 issue of 5 Magazine is now on the streets, with interviews with Dennis Ferrer, DJ Spinna, our Best of Chicago House 2009 selections, 5 Mag Gift Guide and more...

5 Magazine Radio Show - November 27, 2009

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:27:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Miguel Migs: The 5 Magazine Interview

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:20:00 CST

It's been almost a year since Miguel Migs played at a 5 Magazine release party here in Chicago while gracing the cover of our December 2008 issue. Recently he played at Griffin Lounge and I got a chance to catch up with him briefly about his upcoming projects, including his newly released mix CD Get Salted Volume 2...

Music Reviews: KD Aubert: "Model Citizen"

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:20:00 CST

This time around Terry Hunter recruits Los Angeles based actress and singer KD Aubert. KD has played roles on the silver screen in flicks like The Scorpion King, Friday After Next and Soul Plane; as well as on television shows including Buffy, CSI NY and Bones...

New Mix Monday: Demarkus Lewis

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:16:00 CST

Demarkus Lewis is the founder of Grin Music. He's released more than 100 singles and remixes since the late 1990s, ranging in sound from soulful deep stuff to the techy side of House. Demarkus signed his first record deal with Swerve Records in 2000. Since then, his original productions and remixes have appeared on End Recordings, Low Down, Siesta, Large Music, Robsoul, Conya and dozens of other labels. Grin Music was founded in 2005 and has evolved from strictly Deep House to a blend of Tech House (or Housey Tech). Grin's latest release is a Man-versus-Nym battle, Leech vs. Demarkus Lewis' Maze EP. His latest release is the awesomely named Tussy Pickler EP with Maxime Cescau out this month on Artizan...

Cz's Night Out Blog: I Have a New Cat! Uneaq in the House

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:05:00 CST

So a lot has happened in the last few weeks that it would be hard for me to put everything down. As most of you know, my cat Alejandro of over 18 years recently passed and it's made the whole household very sad...

5 Magazine Radio Show - November 13, 2009

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:03:00 CST

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Cz's Night Out Blog: I Like It Raw

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:22:00 CST

This whole month of November is dedicated to my raw food detox/cleanse. I go to Karyn's Inner Beauty for the program, and have done it along with other fellow dancers on and off throughout the years...

Cz's Night Out Photos: September 2009

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:04:00 CST

Photos from the Chicago House Music scene from our September 2009 issue..."

Music Reviews: Bear Who?: The Beatbox Remixed

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:57:00 CST

Ten tracks and almost a who's who (no pun intended) of Chicago producers making waves these days, each of them taking a turn beating down a track from Bear Who's 2008 album The Beatbox. Paul Johnson's remix of It's House is a real treat - chill, laid back but driving all the same. Swirl People...

Music Reviews: The Candy Dealers: "Street Delight"

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:57:00 CST

Fantastic new school release by The Candy Dealers aka Jay West, the only serious underground House Music producer I know of from Argentina, though there certainly must be others. I know this won't be terribly helpful, but this track is...

Music Reviews: Heather Johnson: Happiness LP

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:57:00 CST

Heather Johnson finally drops a long overdue solo album with her often paired label, King Street Sounds. Heather is best known for being the lead singer of the group Ananda Project next to producer Chris Brann. Over the years she has proven herself time and time again from being remixed by Blaze, Louie Vega...

Music Reviews: ATFC: "I Called U (The Conversation)"

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:57:00 CST

Here is another monster tune by ATFC. This time he covers Lil' Louis' I Called U (The Conversation) from his 1990 Epic release. The current versions still feature the same sax-driven riff that you know and love and is guaranteed to get the head...

New Mix Monday: Mazi aka Audio Soul Project

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 13:27:00 CST

Mazi Namvar is one of the most prolific producers in Chicago, having produced or remixed well over 200 records. Best known under his pseudonym Audio Soul Project, he's also one-half of the duo Wasted Chicago Youth with Justin Long and the co-owner of Fresh Meat Records...

Andy Caldwell: The 5 Magazine Interview

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 12:52:00 CST

Always restless, always innovative, Andy Caldwell is on the verge of reinventing himself again. His latest album, Obsession, debuts in October and represents yet another shift in a zig-zag evolution that's passed through Deep House, the funky West Coast House sound and now into something wholly different...

Music Reviews: Restless Soul ft. Lady Alma: "Call Him"

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 13:48:00 CST

The workhorse called Phil Asher returns with Lady Alma (who is full speed ahead herself) with another sure to be favorite deep tune. The bassline is funky as always and Alma's vocals are flawless as expected. If you prefer there's also the Deep Dub which is simply that; a stripped down version with minor vocal parts, easing pads and a percussive workout. To top it off you have Mark de Clive-Lowe adding his signature touch. Here's another perfect summertime tune for people to enjoy worldwide...

Music Reviews: Headhunter: "Muzik"

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 13:48:00 CST

This is by no surprise another wicked tune from the T's Box camp. Terry Hunter comes correct again this time using a marimba/xylophone type sound that has now been made infamous in House Music compliments of Ifefe Iku's Mirror Dance released on Yoruba last year. Here Terry picks up where Mirror Dance left off and brings...

Music Reviews: Random Soul ft. Kristen Pearson: "Better Place"

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 13:48:00 CST

A sweet-sounding modern disco take from Random Soul, who I know mostly from top notch remix work over the last couple of years. Kristen Pearson doesn't blow out the vocals - it actually sounds low enough to be a male vocal - but it works for this track. Most of the remixes take it a shade this way or that way (in some cases stripping the disco tinge of the original completely away), but don't touch the song structure too much...

Music Reviews: River Ocean ft. India: "Love + Happiness" (2009 Mixes)

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 13:48:00 CST

I can't say I was really looking forward to going through this one. This was such a monster hit that I have no desire to hear it again for a long time, especially considering that there are some DJs that rock it as their secret weapon to this very day (if you're outside of Chicago, that probably sounds strange. If you're inside Chicago, you're probably rolling your eyes about now.) There's absolutely nothing wrong with the remixes here - David Penn and...

Music Reviews: Reelsoul + Alix Alvarez: "Bom" (R2)

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 13:48:00 CST

Figure that Alix Alvarez and SOLE Channel will go ultra-deep when they go minimal. This is similar to a lot of the stuff that seemingly every European label is putting out these days, albeit with more cowbell. Was that sarcastic? Yes. Because I'm reading a full page of DJ feedback from names that many of us recognize and respect...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Natural Hair

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 20:12:00 CST

So after 15 years of being a variety of bottle blonde shades, I have decided to go back to my roots. I am half Filipina half east Indian so my genes gave me an overabundance of hair. For those who knew me way back when, my hair in its natural state was jet black, super curly and all the way down my back. But then it got lighter, lighter and lighter and my hair started breaking like Rock Steady crew in 'Beat Street.' Then 2 and a half years ago I had a big show and decided it would be cute to sew in straight blonde extensions down my butt and keep it there for a few months. Sigh. There went the hair. It's really never been the same since...

New Mix Monday: Olivier Desmet

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 12:32:00 CST

Olivier Desmet is the founder of Amenti Music - a label anyone's shortlist as one of the top recording imprints releasing quality House Music today. Born in Brussels, he actually began his career in the industry in Chicago as promotions manager for the late and lamented Afterhours Music...

5 Magazine Radio Show - October 29, 2009

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:05:00 CDT

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Ghetto House Party

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:18:00 CDT

Last Wednesday we threw an awesome little ghetto house/juke/tracks party called HOE-DOWN at SmartBar with DanceMania AllStars DJ Deeon, Gant-Man and DJ Urban. It was a great time and something totally different from what we normally do. Granted this music wasn't for everyone, but hey it's just House Music sped up! The FootworKingz came through along with some dancers from Phaze 2 and repped the circle hard all night long. (Check out the article I did on the FootworKingz...

New Mix Monday: George Jackson

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:50:00 CDT

Chicago's own DJ/Producer George Jackson, aka DJ George J (myspace, discogs) is one of the unsung heroes of House Music in the world. He was the long time label manager for Steve "Silk" Hurley's Silk Entertainment. In addition to cranking out tunes for Silk...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Alejandro

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:03:00 CDT

On Thursday Oct. 8th I was finishing up teaching my House dance class by shooting the shit with Carlos and one of our students. Next thing I know my phone rings and it's Rees crying saying Alejandro my 18+ year old cat was having a seizure. I told him to jump in a cab and to meet me at the Emergency vet on Belmont and Clybourn NOW. While running to my car I call my magazine partner Terry (he lives upstairs from me) and he runs down to join Rees in the cab. The whole time I'm racing to the vet I'm calling them checking to see how Alejandro is. At some point I knew something was very wrong, and in my distress and confusion I kept getting lost between damn Clybourn and Belmont...

5 Magazine Radio Show - October 16, 2009

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 17:00:00 CDT

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

Music Reviews: Silver Haze ft. Jalyn: "State of Emergency"

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:08:00 CDT

This is simply a great piece of music. It's simple and it's great. I don't know much about the artists on this single but what I do know is it has straight forward chunky drums with well played piano parts and alluring male vocals, I'm assuming by Jalyn. This reminds me a lot of last year's Mass Destruction and Terisa Griffin's, "Stressed Out", also on the...

Music Reviews: Traxx: Faith LP

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:08:00 CDT

I really wanted to like this, but I'm afraid I can't give you any compelling reason to buy this one. A friend of mine who heard this promo said, "I thought it was an old '80s bootleg" - and that's just what it sounds like to me. I don't need a vocal to get my rocks off, but a lot of this is stuck in that era - almost like one set out to recreate "Time 2 Jack", "Jack Your Body"...

5 Questions with... Linda Clifford

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:29:00 CDT

In 1980, Alan Parker's Movie "Fame" made its debut and at its premier an expecting Linda Clifford was watching Leroy dance to her song "Red Light". As soon she saw her name in the credits, she turned to her husband and said, "It's time, lets go!" That night, Linda gave birth to her daughter Gina. And by the time this magazine hits the streets, Gina will be married and the remake of "Fame" will be in theaters. ...

Music Reviews: Tyree: "Acid Over" (Mike Dunn Remixes)

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:04:00 CDT

The Incredible MD revives Tyree's Acid House classic in good fashion! A simple updated drum loop with minimal keys and the unforgettable lyrics repeatedly triggered over sets the pace for the intro before the TB-303 drops in for the break. The slow filtered acid line builds nicely through the track and makes the track fun for the DJs who really know how to and enjoy working the mix. If the vocals are a bit repetitive for you, there's an instrumental that has equally enjoyable appeal. Uhaceeid...

Music Reviews: Joey Negro + The Sunburst Band: "Sitting On Top of the World" (DJ Meme Remix)

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:04:00 CDT

This is part of a 3 song EP (with remixes from Joey Negro, Cool Million and Meme) but Meme's take of "Sitting on Top of the World" is the stunner. There's nothing much to it until you realize this was cut today and not 1978 and by Joey Negro and not a Philly International artist, because this is a deep slab of disco, the likes of which don't come across too often. The original on the Moving with the Shakers LP turned some heads but DJ Meme really kills this. His dub mix isn't to be missed either...

Music Reviews: DJ George J. ft. Emerald: "You're Too Late"

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:04:00 CDT

Some of Chicago's elite pull together on for this smooth new single. George Jackson, former label manager to Steve 'Silk' Hurley's Silk Entertainment label delivers a nice tune featuring the vocals of long time friend Emerald and it's co-engineered by none other than E-Smoove. The catchy key riff is accentuated by Emerald's lyrics and it really makes for a perfect combination. Another Chicago House legend is featured on the remix here - that man being the one and only Joe Smooth...

New Mix Monday: Bryan Jones

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:05:00 CDT

Chicago based DJ/Producer Bryan Jones heads Control Recordings, which has been releasing quality Jackin' House tunes for the past four years. Bryan has also released music at an alarming pace on labels such as Moody, Farris Wheel, OM and i! Records...

Cz's Night Out Photos: August 2009

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:22:00 CDT

Photos from the Chicago House Music scene from our August 2009 issue..."

Andy Compton: The Rural Life

Fri, 9 Oct 2009 14:00:00 CDT

For more then a decade, DJs across the world have fought to get their hands on this incredibly soulful music made in Devon, UK, by an outfit known (appropriately enough) as The Rurals. Their sound is impressive enough - but few artists can match the staggering quantity of material The Rurals have released. The mastermind behind The Rurals' sound, Andy Compton...

Music Reviews: Phil Asher: Restless Soul presents "ONE"

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 11:44:00 CDT

No idea if he's set off a challenge to himself or is simply kicking his already prodigious production schedule into overtime, but Phil Asher will not stop until he has a shelf of his own in my record collection. Phlash is now averaging a new release every two weeks by my count, including a new banger every month on his own Restless Soul Music imprint. "ONE" is to be the first (obviously) in a series of numbered EPs...

Music Reviews: Lisa Shaw: "Like I Want To"

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 11:44:00 CDT

Lisa Shaw's newest single from her "Free" album is called "Like I Want To". The album mix produced by Dave Warrin and Fred Everything is featured here on the single in addition to remixes by Fred Everything himself and Dutchican Soul, one of Amsterdam's upcoming talents. All the mixes on this single are equally playable. The "Dutchican Soul Classic Vocal Mix"...

Music Reviews: Tortured Soul: "Another Lover"

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 11:44:00 CDT

The TS Boys are back in the building with their sophomore single which happens to be just as impressive as "Home To You". Once again they haven't slacked on the quality or variety of well known remixers. Tom Moulton and and Dimitri From Paris head the pack along with Tortued Soul's own JKriv and New York duo Tony Loreto...

Event Preview: Dimitri from Paris @ Griffin Lounge

Wed, 7 Oct 2009 02:56:00 CDT

Do you believe in synchronicity? Back in May 2009, Dimitri from Paris (myspace, discogs, twitter) made an edit of The Jackson 5 classic (and probably their most famous song after "ABC") "I Want You Back". It was, in his words, "for my sets and to give [to] a few DJ friends." Michael Jackson was still alive then, there was no motivation do do this other than for his own (and his dancefloor's) pleasure. After Michael Jackson passed away, Universal orchestrated hasty plans to issue a multi-volume set of Michael Jackson remixes collectively titled Michael Jackson: The Remix Suite. The first one hit as a digital download on August 25th, with each new volume following two weeks later (The Remix Suite I is being reissued this month on physical media - you can preorder it from Amazon here)...

Event Preview: Roger Sanchez @ Crobar

Wed, 7 Oct 2009 02:56:00 CDT

Summer's over, and the tribe of DJs that sets up residency in Ibiza is back on the road. Roger Sanchez's Release Yourself residency recently wrapped up the Summer season at Ibiza's Amnesia spot, and will be coming through for a whirlwind North American trip. Roger Sanchez (site, label, myspace, discogs, twitter) is probably one of the world's most recognizable DJs, having moved from the NYC underground in the late 1980s to his modern day Balearic perch. The 1990 release "Luv Dancin'" (under the alias "The Underground Solution") was simple enough, based upon the Loose Joints' 1980 disco cut "Is It All Over My Face?" (West End). That was the first of many Sanchez classics on Strictly Rhythm, including...

Event Preview: DJ Deeon @ SmartBar

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 17:04:00 CDT

For as long as House Music has existed in its recognized form, people have been experimenting with it, attempting to push the envelope further than anyone has before. Such is the case with Ghetto House, a sound that emerged in the fuzzy late-'80s/early-'90s era and took the raw, tracky energy of the original Chicago House sound and meshed it with something far more streetwise and lethal, with often raunchy lyrics over a 4/4 kick and driving, accelerated beats...

Glenn Underground: The 5 Magazine Interview

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 14:04:00 CDT

When I get to Glenn Underground's house (myspace, label, discogs) his roommate Boo Williams opens the door. The studio has been moved since the last time I visited and seems to have gotten an upgrade. Glenn, Boo and I chill for a little and they play a few classics for me. Boo starts to look for a record I asked him about a couple of years ago and I figure it's as good a time as any to launch into the interview...

New Mix Monday: Fred Everything

Mon, 5 Oct 2009 16:46:00 CDT

Our New Mix Monday tagline says that we feature "the best House Music DJs on the planet". This week, the man we're featuring has been described by Ralph Lawson of the seminal 20:20 Vision label as "one of the best House DJs on the planet". So it's natural that we're featuring Fred Everything in the first October 2009 installment of New Mix Monday, 5 Mag's signature House Music mix series...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Awesome Birthday Party

Mon, 5 Oct 2009 13:31:00 CDT

On Thursday Sept. 24th (one day before my actual birthday), I had the most awesome birthday party at our weekly residency URBAN'S HOUSE at Betty's Blue Star. The days leading up to it were a flurry of shopping, baking, harassing and Facebook/Twitter/email/text invites. I also spent 5 hours on the phone making personal invite calls, because it's all about being personal. People are so scared nowadays to just pick up a phone and talk to their friends... it amazes me how removed we are from actual human contact...

Cz's Night Out Blog: Farley at Ohm

Mon, 5 Oct 2009 13:31:00 CDT

Last Wednesday the folks at I Love House Music Wednesdays brought out the King of House Music Farley Jackmaster Funk. I got to be a guest host for that event and the night was a whole lot of fun! Especially when they asked me to introduce Farley on the mic, and for some strange reason there was no microphone to be found...

Event Preview: Mark Farina @ Griffin Lounge

Fri, 2 Oct 2009 18:56:00 CDT

It's hard to believe it's been nearly 13 years since the first edition of Mushroom Jazz (OM Records, 1997) established Mark Farina as one of House Music's most acclaimed DJs. To put those 13 years in perspective, when Mushroom Jazz Vol 1 debuted the dot-com bubble had yet to burst, the best selling album was Spice by the Spice Girls and the world knew nothing about a young White House intern named Monica Lewinsky...

Event Preview: Laidback Luke @ Crobar

Fri, 2 Oct 2009 18:56:00 CDT

Born in Manila, Philippines, Laidback Luke (website, discogs, myspace) grew up in the Netherlands and made his name first in turntablism, then in Techno (his 1995 remix of Green Velvet's "Stalker" still gets plays) and lately as an unofficial member of the Swedish House Mafia. His style is all over the place, from commercial and electro to hard, driving House, including his last smash in the underground, a volcanic remix on Defected of Paul Johnson's Dust Traxx classic "Get Get Down"...

5 Magazine Radio Show - October 2, 2009

Fri, 2 Oct 2009 13:02:00 CDT

A new show from 5 Magazine, the only House Music magazine in the United States, with DJ Rees Urban and hostess Czarina Mirani...

5 Magazine October 2009 Issue Released

Thu, 1 Oct 2009 12:57:00 CDT

The October 2009 issue of 5 Magazine is now on the streets, with interviews with Miguel Migs, Andy Caldwell, Phil Hooton, Pepper MaShay, FootworKINGz and more...

New Mix Monday: Jon Cutler

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:49:00 CDT

Rounding out our September roster of House Music mixes - and just in time! - here's a special bonus mix for our New Mix Monday series featuring remixer, producer and DJ extraordinaire Jon Cutler of Distant Music...

Music Reviews: Mark De Clive-Lowe + Lady Alma: "I Can't Help It"

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:12:00 CDT

"I'm going to work against type here and throw aside the curmudgeonly bit and say that I'm enjoying the renaissance of Michael Jackson tunes that popped up in House Music of late. There were a lot of remixes hiding in the back of people's crates that I may have heard once or twice and never again. This one, though, is new. Mark de Clive-Lowe, who is hotter than molten lava right now, has posted up this cover of MJ's "I Can't Help It" with himself at the console and Lady Alma on vocals..."

Music Reviews: Relo: "Gift of Life"

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:12:00 CDT

"One of the worst things to happen when any new scene gets discovered is that outsiders with half the story start writing the script. That's happening now with the growing wave of South African House Music, with music journalists (especially from England) dubbing certain folks "godfathers" and setting a place at the table for everyone else. In fact, there's just a ton of terrific music being produced, and hardly a day goes by when I don't discover something new from someone I had never heard of before. So it is with this single by silky smooth vocalist Relo..."

Music Reviews: Terry Hunter ft. EL: "I'll Never Leave You" (Michael Jackson Tribute)

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:28:00 CDT

"This is a very sentimental piece of music is dedicated to the memory of The King of Pop. Beautiful, soulful and touching are the first things that come to mind. Terry wasted no time knocking out this amazing dedication to the man whose music will be around until the end of time. EL's tantalizing vocals hit the spot and really do justice to commemorate the gift that MJ has left for generations of music lovers to come..."

Music Reviews: Alexander East: "Pack Yo Bagz"

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:28:00 CDT

"Alexander East is making too much noise to sneak up on anyone anymore, but it still surprises me how many times I find myself writing his name down when I hear a track of his in a hot DJ mix or get a promo thrown over the transom. After his recent collaboration with Fred Everything, Alexander kicks out a really funky tune called "Pack Yo Bagz". The Alvaro Ernesto remix spotlights a dozen quick edits a minute without losing its groove. Don Tinsley's mix is Deep Tech..."

Music Reviews: Leech vs. Demarkus Lewis: The Maze EP

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:28:00 CDT

"Demarkus Lewis continues his exploration of Tech House with this Man vs. 'Nym head-to-head battle, in which Demarkus takes on his best known production alias in a Cajmere vs. Green Velvet fashion. Some might shy away from the label "Tech House" but the drum programming on this is pure House, however you want to cut it. The two Leech mixes are more energetic, with the Heavy Low Dub as the pick of the pack..."

New Mix Monday: Alex bigSEXY Gray

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:38:00 CDT

Welcome back to 5 Magazine's New Mix Monday, our signature mix series featuring new mixes from the world's greatest House Music DJs and Chicago's up and coming talent. This week we're featuring a new mix from Alex Gray, aka bigSEXY...

Marshall Jefferson: The 5 Magazine Interview

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:17:00 CDT

"Whether you remember him as Virgo, Hercules, On The House, Jungle Wonz, the producer for Ten City or simply Marshall Jefferson (website, discogs, facebook, myspace), he has been in the crates of DJs from the beginning. He now resides in the UK to keep up with his busy European DJ schedule and maintains the label USB Records with CeCe Rogers. From Acid House and Ten City to the real deal about 'Video Clash and taking mushrooms, Marshall tells his story..."

Music Reviews: Andy Ward + Sofia Rubina: "Streets of Sun"

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:17:00 CDT

"I don't know that there's a more prestigious label out there now than Soulheaven, and they proudly stamp their name on this collaboration between their resident DJ Andy Ward and Estonian siren Sofia Rubina. Streets of Sun is simply one of the most electrifying releases to come down the pipe this year. Period. The Heavyweight Mix encapsulates everything that you look for in one of those classic summer releases - there's one of 'em every summer, and only one, and this is it..."

Music Reviews: The Rurals: Rural Disco Vibes Vol 2

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:17:00 CDT

"Digi-Peng continues the tradition of dishing out quality music at a staggering rate of release. This six track EP focuses on their more tripped out disco side, which many have overlooked with the emphasis on the sweet vocal Deep House they've rightfully become famous for over the last decade..."

Music Reviews: DJ Dealer: "Brothers + Sisters"

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:17:00 CDT

"When you grab the bassline from Fingers Inc. Mystery of Love and a the vocals from a popular Jesse Jackson speech intertwined with some drums that keep moving throughout the track and add a couple different synths in the mix, you have one rocking mix of this tune titled the Northside Mix..."

Bad Boy Bill: The 5 Magazine Interview

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 03:15:00 CDT

"In Chicago, Bad Boy Bill (website, discogs, twitter, myspace, facebook, youtube) is best known for his mix shows on WMBX, WGCI and B96 and he is credited to being the founding father of the mixtape. With a career spanning from the mid-1980s, Bad Boy Bill is legendary with his accomplishments, starting his first imprint - the illustrious IHR (International House Records) label - as a senior in high school, where he released material from artists like Mr. Lee, DJ Pierre and Mike "Hitman" Wilson. Bill has received top marks for being America's and the world's best and favorite DJ in multiple music publications, including URB and BPM and has been ranked repeatedly in the top 100 in DJ Magazine over the years..."

Music Reviews: DJ Sneak: The Lost DAT Tapes Vol 1

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 03:15:00 CDT

"This vinyl pressing by DJ Sneak appears to contain some forgotten edits from yesteryear, exhibiting the funky cut-up sound of '90s underground House that made such a dramatic impact on some of today's younger producers. Of the four tracks,..."

Music Reviews: Juan Atkins + Kimyon ft. Tricia: "Work For Money"

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 03:15:00 CDT

"This is the debut release on the label All About run by Luis Baro, former program director for XM Radio's The Move. Techno pioneer Juan Atkins collaborates with Kimyon on the original mix which is a dark techy piece featuring the lovely vocals of Tricia..."

Music Reviews: Stephen Rigmaiden: "Elevate Ya Mind"

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 03:15:00 CDT

"The Bay Area's Connected Music takes advantage of their booking agency's healthy roster by pulling together a great lineup of their Class A talent to put together this single. Remixes are by Jay Tripwire, Abicah Soul, Brazlian Soul Crew..."

Music Reviews: Yass pres. Jay + Tahira: "All I'm Asking For"

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 03:15:00 CDT

"Kerri Chandler and Rob Wunderman of Grei Matter are ramping up their releases, and this deep and soulful track is a promise of good things to come. The original mixes are a silky smooth dose of RandB influenced House with a bit of Latin..."