JAZZANOVA
German sextet Jazzanova have risen to popularity among the nu-breaks/downtempo set with their languidly sensuous, rhythmically sophisticated tracks seemingly crafted to make you dance in your chaise longue. Jazzanova's impeccable production techniques have made them better known as remixers than for their own tracks. The soul-funk alchemy Jazzanova work in the studio also creeps into their DJ sets, as evidenced by the new ...Mixing (Sonar Kollektiv). They say that their music's essence can be discerned through their DJ sets, which reflect an eclectic, spiritual sensibility that never reaches exceedingly high peaks, nor plumbs great depths. Jazzanova don't rock the sonic boat, but their mellow, Latin-tinged pleasures consistently satisfy. With AC Lewis, Atlee, J-Justice. Chop Suey, 1325 E Madison St, 324-8000, 9 pm-2 am, 21+, $12 adv.
DJ DAYHOTA
Being a house DJ from Chicago is like being a rapper from the Bronx. The historical burden and fierce competition force artists in their respective cities to raise their game to unprecedented heights just to get a gig in their hometown. So props must be given to Chicago's DJ Dayhota (Shannon Ialongo). This cofounder of the Windy City's SuperJane DJ collective favors "that chunkier, harder-driving, kickin' house" in her sets. "But I also like a little Latin in the mix; anything that makes your ass shake," she says. With Joaquin Garcia, LA Kendall, Julie Herrera. Baltic Room, 1207 Pine St, 625-4444, 9 pm-2 am, 21+, $7 before 11 pm, $10 after.
TUESDAY JULY 20
DJ CRAZE, A-TRAK
Nicaraguan-born, Miami-based Craze is the rare hiphop DJ who's transitioned into drum 'n' bass. Thrice World DMC turntablist champ, Craze has a dazzling arsenal of deck tricks and an ear for bizarre sounds that rivals Mixmaster Mike's. Craze whips up a beat-juggling/scratching storm, in the process turning obsessive/compulsive disorder into grand entertainment. Both Craze and Montreal's A-Trak (1997 DMC winner) appeared on the Allies' D-Day EP (Asphodel, 2000), a lost gem of funky Technics sorcery. With DJs Scene, B-Mello, Haul, and Mason. Chop Suey, 1325 E Madison St, 324-8000, 9 pm-2 am, free (must RSVP at www.scion.com/metro).
