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Music

NXNE Hot Seat: Jazz Cartier

JAZZ CARTIER at the Danforth Music Hall (147 Danforth) as part of NXNE, Saturday (June 20), 9 pm. $35. nxne.com


Toronto rapper Jazz Cartier landed a plum spot as direct support for young hit-makers Rae Sremmurd at their anticipated NXNE show. And it’s well deserved. His debut full-length, Marauding In Paradise, shows off his vocal intensity – think Danny Brown meets Tanya Tagaq, says our review of it – and downtempo beats. And if you haven’t bought your copy yet, swing by Sonic Boom (215 Spadina), where a purchase of Marauding In Paradise or an album by a bunch of other NXNE acts gives you a chance to win a Clubland festival wristband. 

What’s the best thing about the festival experience, as a musician?

This is my first time as a performer but I can imagine there’s the respect among each other. It’ll be fun meeting fans, kissing babies and all that good stuff. 

And as a fan?

As a fan I can go out and support my friends, other acts I’ve been wanting to see. I’m familiar with the NXNE energy and every year it just gets better. 

What would make performing more awesome for you?

Less people on their phones and more people having a good time. 

Does one of your songs translate best to a summer crowd?

New Religion, The Downtown Cliche, Switch, Holy Shit, Dead Or Alive, Secrets Safe, The Valley, Flashiago, Set Fire, Rose Quartz/Like Crazy, Count On Me, New City/ New Legend. You just have to see me live to know why I couldn’t pick just one. 

Any Toronto must-sees or must-dos for visiting musicians and fans?

I guess if you’re a tourist, key spots would be Dirty Bird, Seven Lives and Rasta Pasta in Kensington Market. P&L Burger on Queen. Sam James Coffee is a must-have. For clothes there’s Serpentine, Contraband, Nomad, Stussy, and F As In Frank. 

If you were to add a cover song into your set specifically for your Toronto audience, what would it be and why?

Kanye West’s I Put On Remix. That’s just my mindset when I do anything. Putting on for my city. 

Best comeback you’ve ever used on a heckler? 

Jacuzzi has never been heckled. 

Stage-diving and moshing during your set: yay or nay? 

I’m all for the chaos. Just be mindful of the ladies. 

carlag@nowtoronto.com | @carlagillis

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