SF Bay Guardian

Paul Smith's top five promoter crews*

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Everyone and their mama seems to be spinning records and throwing parties. Advances in technology make it possible to produce on a home computer what once was reserved for professional music studios and print shops: visually stimulating flyers, a flashy Web site, and a flawless demo mix. Still, the glossy package doesn't always translate into a fun night out. The following San Francisco collectives still use the old-fashioned method of "mad skillz" to ensure quality.

1) The worldwide tech-house takeover is happening in San Francisco thanks mainly to the efforts of Tribal Souls. These DJ-promoters consistently bring to town some of the world's biggest names in underground house: Eddie Richards, Mazi, Tyler Stadius, Daniel Poli, Gideon Jackson, Ty Tek, Little Mike, Patrick Turner, Grant Dell, and Marky Star have all played at their parties. Tribal Souls truly believe in promulgating the noncommercialized side of house music, and whenever possible they post mixes from shows for free downloading on their Web site. Hear them in person at Club Six the second Saturday of the month. 10 p.m., Club Six, 60 Sixth St., S.F. $10. (415) 863-1221, www.clubsix1.com [http://www.clubsix1.com]

runner ups:

2) Space Cowboys

3) Green Gorilla Lounge

4) Brass Tax

5) Pink Mammoth

Read the SFBG issue here! [http://www.sfbg.com/39/10/cover_bars_new_clubs_list.html]