Damian Lazarus at Beta

Damian Lazarus's free Lazpod podcast reveals him to be more than just another DJ. Instead of a quick mix of whatever records he's flogging in the clubs that month, each entry in the series uncovers a deep and omnivorous love of all music — from vintage soul and retro electro to deep, pumping house and novelty tracks. And while there's no way his club sets are anywhere near as eclectic and unpredictable, the more straightforward techno and house cuts he sprinkles in the mix are an encouraging blend of exotic, forward-thinking future sounds wrapped around rock-solid, floor-filling rhythms. Consider all that in conjunction with the wide variety of tracks and styles he's shown on the various compilations he's released, and you have a picture of an edgy, experimental DJ who isn't afraid to bend the rules — just the sort of act that pushes the art forward. Catch Lazarus this Saturday, October 25, at Beta.