When it comes to throwing an authentic Northern Soul/funk dance party, the Northern Belles (a.k.a. Cindy Li and Laura Kelly) know their stuff. After nearly two years of ruling the dance floor of The Press Club, the ladies are making the big move to The Garrison (1197 Dundas St. W.) and couldn’t be more excited. This Saturday (November 24), marks their premier and we got the scoop on what you can expect, how the party came to be, what’s on their ultimate soul playlist and more!

How was Soulvation born?

Soulvation was born when two radio geeks and long-time DJs re-united in Toronto and decided to shake up the existing soul scene. Being massive soul lovers, we were disappointed with what some existing soul dance parties in Toronto had to offer, and wanted to hear more than just the same handful of played-out tracks over and over. We attempt to build a community of devoted soul lovers by playing deep cuts as well as hits, and really provoke a feeling of excitement in our attendees as they discover rare gems and forgotten favourites.

Describe your party in a sentence

Cindy: Just a couple of fly girls playing music you can’t help but get down to.

Laura: Soulvation is an authentic soul and funk dance night inspired by the Northern soul explosion of parties that occurred in the UK during the 60s.

Can you tell us more about Soulvation making the move to the Garrison?

We’ve been holding Soulvation at The Press Club for about two years. We approached them in the beginning because we found the bar’s location, beautiful patio, and live-band vibe super appealing. We were lucky to have found a venue so supportive, but due to the size of The Press Club, knew we couldn’t stay there forever. We wanted a bigger space for attendees to really let loose, and we wanted the chance to really grow our audience. When the opportunity to move to The Garrison came up, we knew we had to take it. We’re now fortunate to stand alongside all the other fantastic monthly dance parties held at The Garrison, like Chronologic and Turning Point, and can’t wait until the 24th of November to really shake up the dance floor for you guys.

What 5 songs would be your be on your ultimate Motown/Northern Soul playlist?

Cindy:
1. The Fascinations – “Girls Are Out to Get You”
2. Willie Hutch – “Lucky to be Loved by You”
3. Eddie Holman – “It’s All in the Game”
4. Jimmy Ruffin – “You Gave Me Love”
5. Etta James – “Tell Mama”

Laura:
1. The Montclairs – “Hey You! Don’t Fight It!”
2. Gloria Jones – “Tainted Love”
3. Betty Harris – “Mean Man”
4. The Bar Kays – “Soul Finger”
5. Eddie and Earnie – “Bullets Don’t Have Eyes”

Besides spinning at Soulvation every month, where can we find you hanging out in the city?

Laura: Cosmos record shop, Sonic Boom, The Boat, High Park, Eating tacos everywhere.

Cindy: I live in Parkdale so you can usually find me perusing the vintage shops in my neighbourhood, like Philistine and Common Sort, or grabbing a coffee from Capital or Mascot. I also love to catch live DJs and bands at Wrongbar or the Great Hall whenever I can. And I love buying old records at Sonic Boom and books at BMV in the Annex.

~ Caitlyn Holroyd