In the heart of west central Toronto, nestled at the intersection of Lansdowne and College, Club BSMT has silently emerged as a powerhouse in the city’s reggae scene. Reverberating with the rhythms of the Jamaican beats, this unassuming venue has stealthily become one of the most prominent hubs for reggae lovers.
At the forefront of Club BSMT’s offerings is its signature show, “Saturday Night Rockers,” a monthly extravaganza held on the last Saturday since the summer months. This platform has consistently spotlighted the best in Canadian reggae talent, featuring a diverse lineup of singers, instrumentalists, bands, and sound systems. Among the luminaries gracing the stage are Ammoye, the Sattalites, Junior Miller, Noel Ellis, The Hardcore Band, Devon Irie, Reggaediction, Rayzalution, and the recent highlight, five-time Juno Award winner Exco Levi.
“Saturday Night Rockers” not only boasts a stellar roster of live performances but also ensures a sonic journey through the sweet reggae sounds and rhythms spun by adept DJs on their turntables. With Tipper Sounds, DJ Chocolate, David Kingston, Black Heart Iniversal, and more taking charge of the ones-and-twos, the dance floor at Club BSMT comes alive with infectious energy. Adding a poetic touch to the proceedings, dubzz/poet Clifton Joseph serves as the resident master of ceremonies, weaving together the vibrant tapestry of each reggae-filled night.
As the year draws to a close, “Saturday Night Rockers” is set to conclude 2023 with two not-to-be-missed performances: Vernon Maytone of The Mighty Maytones on November 25 and The Human Rights on December 30. For those unable to experience the magic in person, the show is broadcast live on Ciut 89.5FM and www.ciut.fm, with archived episodes available on their website, ensuring that the spirit of reggae transcends the physical boundaries of Club BSMT and reaches audiences far and wide.
