I went to check out Kid Koala and iNSiDEaMiND on Saturday night at The Boiler House, in the Distillery District. I was amazed with how lively and busy it was there at 10pm. The Boiler House (also known as Building 46) is gorgeous inside with its warm red brick walls, and huge timber supports. The room seems cavernous and industrial, but is actually very cozy when it starts to fill with patrons.

The DJ booth was at least ten feet off the ground and set left of the main bar. There were four or five turntables set up for the opening act iNSiDEaMiND. These two Torontonians played a theatrical set, engaging the crowd while showing off their amazing skills.

Composed of Professor Fingers and Steptone, IaM make ambient music/noise using their turntables as instruments. I really enjoyed their performance, especially when they donned ninja masks and proceeded to cut and scratch the records to make classic kung-fu sounds (all while they sparred on stage).

Between sets, I wandered out to the very large courtyard style patio. With outside bars, plenty of seating, and full flowerpots, this may be one of the nicest patios in the city.

Kid Koala was just coming on to the stage as I made my way back into the venue. The Boiler House was getting filling at this point, and the crowd was ready to consume whatever Kid Koala would dish out.

Kid Koala has never disappointed me in the few times I have been lucky enough to take in one of his shows. His sound is definitely his own - comprised of some of the best scratching and mixing on the planet, along with hip-hop beats, jazz samples, breaks, and heavy rock guitars.

Many DJs use computers or other electronic devices to make their music, but not Kid Koala - he's all about records, records and more records. It is amazing to watch how fast he switches them without missing a beat or mix.

Being able to dance right in front and get back to view the action from up on the second floor overlooking everything was also a huge plus. I'm not sure how often this type of show will be put on at this venue, but this time it really worked. Everybody I spoke to thought it was fantastic as well.

Photography by Hargraftphotography
Video by Frank Lemire