Not terribly fond of the idea of ringing in the New Year with 4000 of your closest friends, glowstick lightshows, and drumroll crescendos at a megaclub? Me neither.

Here are a few house/jazz/soul events on NYE that look promising if you're into a more intimate and organic, less raving night out on the dancefloor.

Ron Trent (Chicago/NYC) at Spin Gallery w/ Trini, Ali Black, Richard Brooks
A b9 Production
"We can ensure you great sound, a great vibe, decor to match the space & atmosphere and no hassles. Though we expect a mature and fashionable vibe, all are welcome! The music will be deep and underground, we're paying attention to all the details..." (flyer)

Boo Wlliams (Chicago), Kevin Yost, Bengoa (Greece) @ 622 Richmond w/ Nick Holder, Jason Ulrich
A Blackmarket Production
Two rooms, and two sound systems. I walked by the venue yesterday and it looks like a really neat non-club space for a proper house music throwdown. (flyer)

Dj Heather @ Footwork w/ Mike Gleeson, Loopity Goofs, "Baby" Joel Smye
A Footwork Production
Footwork has become a mainstay in the Toronto house and techno realm, and this event might be worth dropping in on. (flyer)

Groove Institute @ Gypsy Co-op VENUE CHANGED to 622 Richmond w/ Lonewolf, Frank Williams
A United Soul Production
Rumour has it that Gypsy Co-op will be shutting down for good, so this might very well be the last party there. The venue has been changed because Gyspy Co-op is CLOSED down. This event has been combined with the Blackmarket event.

photo: prescriptionworld.org/