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Eklektic's Experimentation

How Eklektic, the aboveground home for the evolving underground sounds of drum 'n' bass, came into being By dmarie IN AUGUST OF 1997, three women, Miss E, Q-zen and I, vibed on a vision of Eklektic, a party that would reflect the rapidly evolving music and culture surrounding drum 'n' bass. Resident drum 'n' bass DJs were selected, a cozy and dark venue was discovered and in September of that year Eklektic was born. In the beginning, our resident DJs Sage and Star Eyes and other talented local jungle DJs held the foundation for the essence of Eklektic as a source for quality music. Seventy-five people joined us opening night, and we felt the potential for our club to be a showcase for music, art and technology. The intensity of the jungle sound was catching on like wildfire, and Eklektic's popularity was fueled by an increasing demand from the community for this music. For some, we were the introduction to understanding the sound of jungle music. Sixty-five sessions later, the night's success can be largely attributed to the base of dedicated local artists who shape San Francisco as an integral part of the global jungle movement. It all began at Kate O'Brien's, which provided a space for unlimited expression. We had to prove ourselves as an asset to the venue, because management was weary of young women promoters, but it soon learned that Thursdays would be an anchor for a steady weekly crowd. Through trial and error, we learned to manage the weekly details: bookings, travel, promotion, sound design and a lot of production. Weekly meetings began. We spread the word on the streets with homemade paper fliers, shouts on KUSF and listings on the Internet. There were so many details and phone calls and things to remember. Surprises and possibilities were around every corner. We had to be on our toes and keep things fresh. In January 1998, we began our color-flier art series. We chose DJ UFO's drawings because they represented the urban woman. This was a landmark for us, a theme for the image of Eklektic. With visits from Philly's Dieselboy and NYC's Dara, our head count exploded. For the first time, we reached maximum capacity and had to turn away junglists--bigger crowds equal higher maintenance. On one occasion, the freshly painted bathrooms had been tagged from floor to ceiling. We spent hours scouring with ammonia, hoping that management would not cut our night. Soon, the venue had to increase security and bar staff. The demanding frequencies of the jungle sound called for tighter maintenance and upgrading of the sound system. We experienced problems with skipping turntables due to heavy action on the dance floor. It took us awhile, but we solved the problem by flying the decks from the ceiling. Now, Thursdays are busy with preparation for the night's session. On a typical day, we connect with the DJs and visual artists, create and print posters for the stairwell, compile the guest list, get change for the door, check our supplies and stock up on colored lights, candles, flowers, candy, tape, incense, etc. We grab the camo netting, needles, urban art, cash box and plenty of fliers. We frequently coordinate record releases to give people free music. Loaded with bags of gear, we arrive at Eklektic each week around 9:30pm. Sound check starts, and the club begins its metamorphosis. With help from our friends, we work quickly to change the interior and add our junglistic vibe. Our reliable sound technician and door manager allow us, as hostesses, to concentrate on other areas of the production. We are troubleshooting throughout the night, and quite often you'll find us downstairs in meetings concerning future Eklektic events. When we host out-of-town guest DJs, production is more intense. Airport pickups, hotel arrangements, shopping trips, meals, in-store appearances and Beta Lounge sessions are usually added to the itinerary. Throughout the year, Eklektic has proudly hosted UK DJs like Dazee with MC Jakes of Ruffneck Ting, Damage of Heavy Duty, Marvelous Cain with MC Five Alive, Stakka and Skynet with MC Ragga-D of Audio Blueprint and other respected stateside talent. Saving money for these events is essential. We consider it an accomplishment of the entire underground music community for us to have reached the point where we can afford to bring in guests. After months of experimenting, Eklektic matured, and a standard was set. From the time you arrive until the moment the clock strikes 2, you will experience the best of San Francisco junglism. Although it is a lot of work, it is so rewarding. Groundscore big ups to Q-zen, Phunckateck, B.A.S.S. Kru, Bug'n Out, Magic Circle, XLR8R, SINC, Green Recordings, DJs tomas and Andrew of The Friday Night Session, Future Breaks FM, PBS, Phluid, Spectrumega, Mikey, Tish, Alexi, Thea, Rebel-lion and all dedicated dancers. For more information on Eklektic, call Groundscore at 415/332-5800, ext 797. [ San Francisco | MetroActive Central | Archives ]