For further proof that dance music was more exciting back in the day, see the proliferation of parties celebrating years gone by. First up, Bumpin the Nite—which doubles as a sayonara to Paper Recordings (the famed U.K. deep house label), and as a Mancunian flashblack. With DJ Roy Dank (taking a breather from his drum’n’bass duties), Balihu Records’ Brennan Green, and DJ Casio guiding you on a trip to the past. Saturday @ 9, Back Room, 436 W 15th.
For those who pine for the days when drum’n’bass didn’t suck, this is a rare event. DJ Storm (of the renowned Metalheadz label) is spinning an all-vintage Metalheadz set at DB’s weekly Acupuncture party. While there is no dancefloor, the sound system at Halcyon rips and it should be a real treat to hear the old tunes properly. Friday @ 10, Halcyon, 227 Smith, Bklyn, 718-360-WAXY.
“Little” Louie Vega, a New York legend, pops out of hibernation for a Masters at Work-out. The diminutive DJ takes over Shelter for a special Dance Ritual just in time for the opening of the Matrix sequel (the flyer is a cute play on the green screen of drifting symbols). Old school is new again. Friday @ 10, Shelter, 20 W 39th, 212-719-9867.
And another nostalgia-filled event: The 10th anniversary of Café Con Leche, the diverse house party started by Joey Sheridan and Naudio Feliz, returns for a one-off reunion to coincide with the AIDS Walk (the party doubles as a benefit for the Hispanic AIDS Forum). Familiar faces like DJ Kris Spirit, DJ Merritt, and doorman Gilbert Stafford will be on hand. Sunday @ 10, Cheetah, 12 W 21st, 212-206-7770.