St. Patrick’s Day weekend is another excuse for Buffalo to get sloshed, but is also a celebration of respected traditions. The city swarms green for two great parades and rowdy partying. What could be better? The tip of Spring is pushing up through the soil and beginning to bud fresh. Everyone’s got that itch.

Sort of having his own Spring awakening is local DJ and promoter Jason Krantz, more often known as LOKI. We spoke on the phone last night about music, the local EDM scene, and the upcoming shows he has playing tonight and tomorrow night. Confirming my inclinations, Jason is an individual with a strong focus on what is cutting edge. He is taking new steps with his production of shows to present acts and lineups that are fresh and exciting. Tonight, performing live on a night-off from the “World of Drum and Bass Tour,” will be London Bass DJ, CRISSY CRISS. The name is an ironic play on his famous step-father DJ’s, Kenny Ken. Don’t let the humor fool you, this prodigal step-son has been DJ-ing since he was a boy. And to Jason’s and everyone else's delight he was able to wrangle in this special show tonight at Soundlab. Also appearing will be GREENLAW, known to many bassheads, and climbing producer and local favorite HOOGS! Krantz’ work within the Drum and Bass scene in Toronto has blessed him with a network of people in the industry that can offer the sort of opportunities to build creative ideas for the EDM scene in Buffalo. Having a balance between creativity and constructive criticism is where his sentiments seem to lie when it comes to that scene in Buffalo. We agreed that the the fragmentation of Electronic and Dance music in Buffalo has pocketed the various “crews” and has hindered progress.

Loki’s already made a name for himself as a DJ. He’s been working hard at it for years. This same ambition he is bringing to producing shows of good quality; respected artists that he feels are deserving of a visit to our corner of the United States. We also spoke of his local “monthly” event. “They keep changing days on me” he said commenting in reference to his local night which will feature different styles of bass music currently being held at Big Bad Wolf on Delaware near Chippewa. This event will be in session again on Friday night featuring the skillful talents of BIG BASHA and POTENT J, along with SCUTTI a Drum and Bass DJ from the Rochester area and Jason, Loki, himself. For those hitting up PAUL OAKENFOLD at Rendezvous on Friday night might want to make a last stop over at Big Bad Wolf to see what’s going down late-night. A tip of the hat to Jason for letting me pick his brain, but his philosophy definitely needed to be recorded and his shows are certainly commanding attention.

Personally for St. Patty’s Day, I like to take in a little bit of traditional Irish music and dancing. However, if that’s not your bag, then Buffalo has plenty of other music going on for the parties of this colorful weekend. Much noise will be made in the Dance music world of Buffalo this weekend, including one of the world’s most famous DJs:

thursday 3/15

10p-4a

18+

SOUNDLAB

110 pearl st. Buffalo, NY

Featuring: CHRISSY CRISS with GREENLAW, HOOGS, LOKI, and HXLY

Crissy Criss & Youngman - Give You The World by Crissy Criss

friday 3/16

10p-4a

21+

RENDEZVOUS AT STATLER CITY

107 delaware ave. Buffalo, NY

Featuring: PAUL OAKENFOLD with ANGELO PETRUCCI and JARVIS

Known as one of the most famous DJ/Producers, also voted as the world's deuchiest DJ. But I'll defend Oakenfold's legacy. Last time I saw him he played a over 4 and a half hour strait, and the quality of his set remained throughout the duration of that long set. His coolness may be under scrutiny, but his talent, prowess and international notoriety compensate for any of the bullshit shortcomings ;) He's still the fuckin man.

10p-4a

18+

BIG BAD WOLF

252 delaware ave. Buffalo, NY

Featuring: BIG BASHA, SCUTTI, LOKI, POTENT J, and THE MICK

saturday 3/17

10p-4a

18+

DNIPRO UKRAINIAN HOME

562 genesee st. Buffalo, NY

Featuring: JOHN ACQUAVIVA and ANTHONY ATTALLA along with 30+ DJs and Bands.

Well what better way to spend St. Patrick's Day than with another large "neo-rave" event in the DNIPRO Ukrainian Home? The last event held here was the Get Down Solstice back in December, which all of the attendees seemed to enjoy thoroughly. The coolest think is that they have a room for live bands along with DJs filling out every other room with all different styles. Including many of your favorite local DJs. You can find a full lineup and and ticket information at the website for the event HERE.

John Acquaviva & Pierce - Butterfly Collector (Ozgur Can Remix) by Fernando Maguiña

sunday 3/18