Discography
The Baltimore House 43 King William Street
Sunday nights will never be the same. A brand new party called Discography has begun, and you’re going to want to get in on it.
Founded by Mark Furukawa (Dr. Disc), Andy Inglis (of Absinthe’s legendary Motown nights and residency at Diavolo), and Shannon Ramnarain (residency at Gown and Gavel and Burlington’s Ivy Bar), these three DJs know their stuff. Every other Sunday, they curate their playlists and throw down at Baltimore House. The catch? Vinyl only.
While promoting the event, the DJs spoke of the art of DJing being lost, with so many turning to digital. Vinyl has made an enormous comeback with sales, and Mark, Andy, and Shan want to bring back the appreciation for vinyl. The launch kicked off with the three DJs only, but at each event from now on there will also be a special guest DJ.
Discography went all out with their promotion for the event. The launch party was by invite-only, unless you managed to get in with a lucky invitee. I was super excited when Mark handed me my invitation – this wasn’t your average invite, but a CD (made to look like a vinyl!) with a mix of songs chosen by the three DJs to give a taste of what to expect that night.
The theme for Discography’s launch – no songs beyond 1999. DJ Andy was up first and songs from his set included Pulp’s “Common People,” The Kinks’ “She’s Got Everything,” and Daft Punk’s “Around the World,” just to name a few.
DJ Shan took the floor next and mixed things up with some hip hop and more. His songs choices included “Breaks” by Kurtis Blow and “Juicy” by Notorious BIG. There’s no way I can capture each of their sets by listing a few songs, but the DJs posted their set lists later on Discography’s Facebook page.
To help celebrate the launch, one of my new favourite food spots Culantro was on hand with their delicious empanadas, which worked out well, since the restaurant is right next door to Baltimore House. Drinks were a-flowin’ and bartender Kevin Delaney concocted a custom cocktail for Discography, so be sure to ask for the “Common People” next time you’re at the bar.
DJ Mark was up last. The moment was really hyped up, and rightfully so. We all know Mark as owner of Dr. Disc, but some people may not know about his extensive history as a DJ. He hadn’t DJ’ed in at least 15 years! Everyone stopped dancing to watch and cheer as Mark got up to the booth. People had their phones out to snap a photo and capture the moment. It was really exciting and I was happy to witness it.
After a build-up with his intro, Mark launched into Blondie’s “Rapture,” and he was off. Other artists included The Clash, Prince, Michael Jackson, The Velvet Underground, Beck, David Bowie, and more. Such a good mix!
I was so busy taking in the night that I didn’t manage to take photos, aside from Mark’s big moment! Thanks to Discography for letting me use a few of their official photos from the event. Check out their full album from the launch.
Discography happens every other Sunday – don’t miss out!
For more info on Discography – find them on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @discographydjs.
– Kristin
