BeatBox

I'd love to use the word "exotic" to describe the kick-ass global tunes at "Divination"-- which showcases local DJs Soulsaalam, Vinnie Esparza, and Hokobo spinning a spicy blend of Arab, Afro, Brazilian, and Latin beats -- but that would be considered wrong and politically insensitive (or at least that's what I had hammered into my head by numerous, rather touchy critical theory classes in college). But fuck it. The tunes at "Divination" areexotic. And in addition to the grooves from abroad, the club features cheap drink specials and great, attractive bartenders at one of the Mission's best watering holes. The rhythms start at 10 p.m. Fridays at the Hush Hush Lounge. Admission is $5; call 241-9944.
-- Brock Keeling

111 Minna Gallery, already known for its well-liked "Qoöl" parties thrown every Wednesday, also serves up some other swell soirees. For example, check out Friday night's New York-themed "Turntables on the Hudson" this week, at which Big Apple producer and DJ Osiris will make his first San Francisco appearance, mixing jazzy beats and hip hop tunes. Along with this Bay Area virgin, local DJs Rueben and Tom Thump assist in delivering the ass-shaking grooves. And since New York is almost synonymous with design and style in the United States, the night will also feature a multidesigner fashion show. The fun begins at 9 p.m. on July 9 at 111 Minna; call 974-1719 or visit www.111minnagallery.com.
-- Brock Keeling

If DJ skills fueled SUVs, then San Francisco would've been "liberated" years ago. And while the Sucker Free City has long been considered the West Coast capital for turntablism (fuck you, Los Angeles), it isn't every day that you see a lineup like the one this Saturday at the DNA Lounge. The Drum's Kevvy Kev, Triple Threat's Apollo, the Oakland Faders' Platurn, and the Coup's Pam the Funkstress are among the A-list vinyl technicians slated to appear. Dubbed "The Big Payback" and sponsored by the venerable head-nodders at True Skool, this show basically amounts to a Bay Area DJ summit. And with admission set at a paltry $5, you can't go wrong. Get paid back on July 10 at the DNA Lounge; call 626-1409 or go to www.true-skool.org.
-- Sam Chennault