Techno Pioneer or New Club?

Saturday brings a bit of a dilemma for techno music lovers. Two really enticing events aim to give us a taste of both the oldschool and newschool on the dancefloor.

NYC-born techno pioneer Joey Beltram will be making a much anticipated appearance at a club that's tried, tested and true - Footwork. At an event named after his legendary 1990 classic "Energy Flash "(mp3), the oldschool techno purists may be in heaven. Beltram's discography spans 16 years and it's been about 6 years since he's touched down in Toronto. Rounding out the lineup are Jelo, Lee Osborne, Evan G & Justin Tyce. 10pm - morning, $20. (flyer)

Around the corner and up the street, a new weekly techno series called "Systema Saturdays" launches at the brand new Opium (222 Richmond W). A live PA from Germany's Paul Kalkbrenner (mp3 sample) is the highlight of the night. And the $3 drink specials. Also performing are Greg Gow, Brandon Dove, and Tomasso Ferrari. $10 before 11:30pm, $15 after. (flyer)

Maybe if I drink enough red bull, I'll be able to hit up both.