In our series Home Scene, Grid City asks music fans to share what they love most about the city’s music culture. This time we check in with musician, producer and the host of Strictly Hip Hop, DJ STV.
What’s your favourite city music venue?
The Capital Complex. As far as live music is concerned, it has the best sound. It’s kinda small but it makes the shows there more intimate. Plus, being connected to the Phoenix and Wilser’s Room gives you options. And lots of awesome people work there too.
Name the one Fredericton band more people should know about but don’t.
Socially Exceptable aka SE. Their live hip hop sets are very dope. I know they’re rocking shows quite often so check’em out. Also, I don’t know what they call themselves but a few of the members of dub antenna play in a salsa band that’s pretty freakin’ awesome.
Name your favourite recent release by a Fredericton artist.
I don’t know if it counts, but Above (from Saint John) ‘s LP High Water Mark is produced, recorded, engineered,etc right here in Fredericton by Sean One. They’re both very good friends of mine but that LP has been getting lots of spins regardless.
If a live music experience could be summed up as a combination of time, place and artist, tell us about one show you’ve seen this year that ranks high on your list.
Since I deejay at The Phoenix on Saturdays, I get to check out bits of shows every week so it’s hard to pick one. There’s been some really cool show happening at The Capital. I’d also like to mention the hip hip shows that Klub Khrome has been doing. I sadly never made it to Mobb Deep but the fact they booked a show in Fredericton is incredible.
Live music culture is an important part of Fredericton’s identity. If you could improve one aspect of the city’s music scene, what would it be?
I don’t think the scene needs improving, there’s a lot going on. I think events might be getting lost on social media thru over saturation, like getting invited to events in other cities. It nice to see people like yourself promoting things in Fredericton. Erin bond at CHSR does a great job getting info out about local shows, releases etc. People who want to know about local anything should listen to CHSR. They’re huge supporters.
Steve Hodgson is the host Strictly Hip Hop on CHSR 97.9fm for 21 years , resident Saturday night deejay at The Phoenix in The Capital Complex and member of First Words .
