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A Letter To Sonic's Team....

Citing an "identity crisis" you decided to start a new "gay' night called OPEN. The grand opening was last friday. What a disappointment.
Doors not opening at announced time, total chaos, liquor not being sold despite advertising "fully licensed event", bad music and terrible "entertainment". One wonders, judging by the first night if this is the way SONIC is going to treat the gay customers? Very sad to see that nobody in management took the time to secure a license for an event where alcohol was to be served. Even sadder is the fact that the music (which is supposed to be what SONIC is all about) was at best, MEDIOCRE. Whoever buys talent needs to seriously reconsider his/her reasons for booking these 3 DJ's because they simply SUCKED (the last DJ who played was a bit better, but still...).

Are these supposed to be the RESIDENTS on friday nights? DJ's shouldn't be booked because "they are local and we trying to support local TALENT": They should be booked because indeed they have talent. All people I talked to and myself, all agreed that they suck. How about the "entertainment"? Putting a drag queen to BADLY lypsynch to a song he/she didn't even take the time to learn is just SAD and EMBARRASING. Decorations were extremely tacky, a sign saying "MEN" is stupid and irrelevant in nature (it's a gay party, we all know it's for MEN).

On your MYSPACE page you guys advertise that "a cast of Toronto's premier performance artists along with International recording artists will be onsite providing aural and visual theatrics throughout the evening". What I observed on friday was simply a joke. The reason why SONIC has an appeal to the gay community is because you were supposed TO OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE TIRED CHURCH-WELLESLEY SCENE. Obviously you guys are only perpetuating the problem, booking the same bad DJs and entertainers that make that scene so uncool.

How about taking a chance and treating the gay crowd with more respect and in a less condescending way. Gay crowds have always been very receptive to new experience, and as a matter of fact most of the legendary clubs in dance music history have been gay, like the Paradise Garage (that is supposed to have inspired SONIC), Sound Factory, etc.. The name of the night is OPEN.. Why not be open minded and offer something different? The promoter and "creative director" for this event is well known in the gay community for offering year after year the same tired concept and PEOPLE WANT A CHANGE. If people still attend his events is because there's nothing else to do.

The ocurrences at last week's (opening night) event were indeed unexpected and disappointing and look really bad on you. The gay community has supported your club since opening night, and constitute, as a matter of fact, a major chunk of you patrons, because now not only there's a gay night on fridays, but saturdays afterhours will continue having a strong gay following. Treat ALL YOUR CUSTOMERS with respect.

I wasn't at this event, so obviously I can only voice my opinion from the outside...but I think you have to be a little optimistic.

There could have been a number of things that went wrong throughout the night - remember it is opening night of the gay events, so there's bound to be some complications. Perhaps there was a problem getting the liscene, or the singer who was supposed to sing got sick at the last minute...

Again, this was opening night so maybe they wanted to try something and then get feedback from the people who attended - either negative or positive. In the past it seems that the people who work at Sonic were aware of things that people didn't like about the club, and if there was a lot of agreement between the patrons, they would change things.

As for the music...I didn't hear the DJs, as I said I wasn't there...but your opinion of what "sucks" could have been awesome to other people. A lot of people on this website for instance hate Ferry Corsten's new material, whereas I love it! Just b/c a few people don't like it doesn't mean it sucks.

Anyway...I'm sure you all know I'm in no way affiliated with Sonic...but just my opinion on the situation.

I believe if things such as not opening on time (depending on how late they were) and not serving alcohol even though they advertised they would should be explained by the club. And if they give reasonable explanations...give them another chance to prove themselves. I'm sure they weren't trying to purposely disrespect the gay community!

tarrantella66 called for a change, but gave no indication of what that could be. Maybe the reason promoters put out the same tired old acts is because instead of being constructive with their critism, the crowd just keeps whinning that they're being given the same service.

How bout you name a few DJ's you'd like Sonic to bring in?

I'm not affiliated with Sonic in any way, and i'm sorry you had a bad experience so have a right to complain -- but if you truly want to get a positive response, why not offer an alternative to what you disliked so much.

SORRY it was shit night

it was just another gay party.. just out side of the village...
same dj's, same entertianment... and exaclty what is WRONG with the gay scene... the fucking promotors aren't doign anything NEW. it's the same shit that's been rehashed for the last fucking 20 years....
just another event...revolving aroudn the same scene..

i didn't even make it into the club... when staff came around the line and explained the siutation to me, i'd been in line for almost 2 hrs already. when she told me the bar might not be open. i left wandering through the line explaining what i was told, and suggest they make it back to fly..


just another Gigi event.....

To be honest - I liked Sonic's original format:

Bring top quality DJs and throw a great party for EVERYBODY.

The audience composition of the original Saturday night parties did not bother me, nor did I ever have a night ruined.

The "Saturday night Sonic product offer" was very clear to everybody who went to the club.

I was just informed by a friend of mine who is a Sonic enthusiast...hasn't missed a weekend there...and is also a member of the gay population of Toronto. He told me that he was very unimpressed with Sonic on Friday.

They let people in 2 and a half hours late, and didn't inform anyone of the change in alcohol not being served at the event. As well, the DJ being known for not being that good and the decorations were terrible - considering how much they put into events like Demi etc.

So from hearing that...it seems like they really did screw up.

I agree with Kytracid though...you have a right to your opinion, and a right to complain...but why not offer some suggestions I hope they make some changes and the next gay night goes better!

I can't stop laughing at the thought of a huge fucking sign that says "MEN"

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker To be honest - I liked Sonic's original format: Bring top quality DJs and throw a great party for EVERYBODY.

open... ?

good words, rabbitjoker, good words.

I didn't end up going to last week's opening night because I figured it'd be filled with disappointment and disorganization, and because, well, their lineup couldn't compete with Desyn and Omid16b. I wasn't awfully surprised to hear that it was fubar'd from beginning to end. I don't mean to dis the abilities of the people organizing the night and the club... it's just that things tend to go wrong on OPENing night that are either taken care of before the next event, or the night flops.

A few comments:

1. I don't understand the need for all of the "gay kitsch" that's been added to the events. GoGo dancers? Theatrics? Drag performances? C'mon. Not necessary. It's the same, tired old goddamn song. Gay Toronto doesn't need more kitch from a can; it badly needs a gay-friendly club night out, especially since 5ive and IT closed. Something that starts between 10 and 12, serves alcohol, has space for dancing as well as chilling and socializing, and priced accessibly. We need good lighting, good drinks, a good system, a good DJ, and a well-proportioned space. Right now there's nothing.

2. Clarify intentions. If OPEN is going to bring big-name DJs, it's just going to split the Saturday night crowd. Not that I object to more big DJs coming to Toronto, but it's basically the same thing with a "gay" label slapped across the door, and perhaps more circuit and tribal bookings. The other option is to use the Sonic space and awesome sound for the "normal night out," keep it affordable, and bring big DJs for special events. I'm thrilled that Victor Calderone is coming, but $35+ cover is a bit pricey for people who don't give a shit about the music and just want to go out with their friends.

3. What's wrong with the "tried and true" local talent? There's a whole host of regular Village invitees, such as Deko-Ze, Sydney Blu, Geoff Kelloway, Cajjmere Wray, and TK (please excuse any missed names--this isn't a wish list, either). I realize that's a fairly diverse bunch, and that they're all busy DJs, but everyone knows they have (varying levels of) skill and can work the crowd without blowing the budget. And if tried and true isn't in the cards, start interviewing for new residents, and impress us with your finds.

4. Work out the logistical issues, or go down in flames. It's that simple.

I'm looking forward to Victor on Friday, and to seeing what the night is all about. After last week's problems, this is more or less their "real" opening. Hopefully it'll be more reminiscent of Stereo than Woody's.

quote:

Originally posted by *~LiSa-LoO~* why not offer some suggestions

Last I checked concerns can be acted upon without a list of suggestions.

The guy is not in the business of running a club, managing a club or consulting for a club - he's a patron.

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker To be honest - I liked Sonic's original format: Bring top quality DJs and throw a great party for EVERYBODY. The audience composition of the original Saturday night parties did not bother me, nor did I ever have a night ruined. The "Saturday night Sonic product offer" was very clear to everybody who went to the club.

im with u on that one RJ.... the weekly mixes from circuit nties. to tribal nites. hell i even had fun with satoshie tommie, even tho it was muscially boring for me... the people make it fun.

like i said jsut another gairy brown event...

Respect to you for being upfront about your concerns. I am sure Sonic will respond to them.

It's all about diversity...

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker To be honest - I liked Sonic's original format: Bring top quality DJs and throw a great party for EVERYBODY. The audience composition of the original Saturday night parties did not bother me, nor did I ever have a night ruined. The "Saturday night Sonic product offer" was very clear to everybody who went to the club.

AMEN!

But it's obvious that the mixed format did bother many of the straight patrons, and that's why Sonic's management started talking about a so-called "identity crisis".. I suppose we can only blame the promotions team for being unable to bring a crowd who can tolerate others and their differences to build up an interesting crowd. Especially because Sonic has been heralded as Toronto's response to STEREO, a club that is in every DJ's top list as one of the world's best clubs, and even more considering that David Morales is supposed to be co-owner of both clubs As a matter of fact, I noticed he doesn't mention Sonic anymore in his web page or his myspace page.. Has he really parted ways with Sonic?

*For Immediate Release*

Gairy Brown, Gina, Marko, Russell and the management team at Sonic Nightclub
wish to extend our sincerest apologies for the occurrences at last week's
premiere of *OPEN*. We would like to clearly communicate that we do not hold
any other establishment(s) responsible for what took place but it is
unfortunate that someone took the time to try and undermine our efforts to
provide you with a new and exciting night of entertainment. We wish to
assure you that all the necessary and required steps have been taken to
ensure that this will never happen again and the licensing for
*OPEN*Fridays is in place, in compliance with the Liquor Act and in
effect.

We would like to assure you that *OPEN* is moving on full steam ahead and we
look forward to seeing you at our first *OPEN LATE* event featuring the
renowned Victor Calderone, special performance by GIA, hot GOGO boys and a
few other surprises. Doors will be open promptly at 10pm and the party goes
until 7am . The bars will be open and fully licensed for your pleasure.

We once again apologize for any inconvenience resulting from last weeks
events and wish to once again invite you to experience our new night
*OPEN*this Friday Dec 1st.

Sincerest thanks and apreciation for your support!

Is it just me who is a little suspicious when "tranceaddicts in training" show up magically to bash an event, club or dj?

hmmmmm

quote:

Originally posted by Sonic Nightclub *For Immediate Release* Gairy Brown, Gina, Marko, Russell and the management team at Sonic Nightclub wish to extend our sincerest apologies for the occurrences at last week's premiere of *OPEN*. We would like to clearly communicate that we do not hold any other establishment(s) responsible for what took place but it is unfortunate that someone took the time to try and undermine our efforts to provide you with a new and exciting night of entertainment. We wish to assure you that all the necessary and required steps have been taken to ensure that this will never happen again and the licensing for *OPEN*Fridays is in place, in compliance with the Liquor Act and in effect. We would like to assure you that *OPEN* is moving on full steam ahead and we look forward to seeing you at our first *OPEN LATE* event featuring the renowned Victor Calderone, special performance by GIA, hot GOGO boys and a few other surprises. Doors will be open promptly at 10pm and the party goes until 7am . The bars will be open and fully licensed for your pleasure. We once again apologize for any inconvenience resulting from last weeks events and wish to once again invite you to experience our new night *OPEN*this Friday Dec 1st. Sincerest thanks and apreciation for your support!

honestly... i love what u guys have done since late april.. but the go go bois and shows ... arent' necesscary.. leave those for fly and crews and tangos.... do what've u've been doing on a weekly basis... and showcasing the music.... that's what we all come for.... the music, the friends ..... and the good times.... the circuit.. as much as i love it.. is dead.... and moved on. the drag shows and overly muscular gogo dancers are passe. the reason we all came to sonic since u guys opened. was for unreal house music, on a weekly basis. and since then u have pretty much delivered.

Re: It's all about diversity...

quote:

Originally posted by tarrantella66 AMEN! I noticed he doesn't mention Sonic anymore in his web page or his myspace page.. Has he really parted ways with Sonic?

I'd love for SONIC to officially clarify this to. Awhile back they mentioned they'd respond with a press release concerning all the changes when the rumours surfaced. No details yet???

i think now that the night has a liquor licence the name of the night should change from "open" to "bottoms up" in celebration of the occasion

Oh really?

quote:

Originally posted by Jayx1 Is it just me who is a little suspicious when "tranceaddicts in training" show up magically to bash an event, club or dj? hmmmmm

I think the ocurrences speak by themselves.... But somebody has to bring them up... And no, stop your conspiracy theories: I am in no way affiliated with any other club in Toronto or any other city. I'm just a dancer and music fan who really APPRECIATES the fact that Toronto now has a club that has world-class potential and doesn't want it go down the toilet. My 2 cents.

quote:

Originally posted by Sonic Nightclub *For Immediate Release* Gairy Brown, Gina, Marko, Russell and the management team at Sonic Nightclub wish to extend our sincerest apologies for the occurrences at last week's premiere of *OPEN*. We would like to clearly communicate that we do not hold any other establishment(s) responsible for what took place but it is unfortunate that someone took the time to try and undermine our efforts to provide you with a new and exciting night of entertainment. We wish to assure you that all the necessary and required steps have been taken to ensure that this will never happen again and the licensing for *OPEN*Fridays is in place, in compliance with the Liquor Act and in effect. We would like to assure you that *OPEN* is moving on full steam ahead and we look forward to seeing you at our first *OPEN LATE* event featuring the renowned Victor Calderone, special performance by GIA, hot GOGO boys and a few other surprises. Doors will be open promptly at 10pm and the party goes until 7am . The bars will be open and fully licensed for your pleasure. We once again apologize for any inconvenience resulting from last weeks events and wish to once again invite you to experience our new night *OPEN*this Friday Dec 1st. Sincerest thanks and apreciation for your support!

Good luck everyone - the scene needs all the choices it can get. I hope Sonic can make a good run on this Friday line-up

quote:

Originally posted by Jayx1 i think now that the night has a liquor licence the name of the night should change from "open" to "bottoms up" in celebration of the occasion

haha - LMAO - good one Jay

quote:

Originally posted by Sonic Nightclub *For Immediate Release* We would like to clearly communicate that we do not hold any other establishment(s) responsible for what took place but it is unfortunate that someone took the time to try and undermine our efforts to provide you with a new and exciting night of entertainment.

And to top it off, they are blaming "other establishment(s)" for their failure on getting proper licensing... CLASSIC!

quote:

Originally posted by rabbitjoker Last I checked concerns can be acted upon without a list of suggestions. The guy is not in the business of running a club, managing a club or consulting for a club - he's a patron.

I was just about to post the exact same thing. It's the clubs responsibility to find out what the crowd wants.

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