The Cricklewood Massive Brings Washington's DJ Nights into the 21st Century

Washington, D.C. — If you have an iPod, you can DJ at Cafe Saint-Ex.

On the second Wednesday of each month, The Cricklewood Massive presents "iPod Jukebox," an open-decks DJ night that replaces the turntables with portable MP3 players. No vinyl. No CDs. No kidding.

The format is simple: Aspiring MP3Js sign up for a timeslot. When it's their turn, they plug their iPod (or other portable MP3 device) into the bar's sound system and play whatever they want for 12 minutes. Participants need to bring their own music, as a "house" iPod is not available. This is intended to be a night where everyone can show off their favorite gems from their own record collection.

iPod Jukebox debuted at Arlington's Galaxy Hut in April 2004, drawing more than a dozen MP3Js and a rave review from Washington Post technology columnist Rob Pegoraro. It moved to Cafe Saint-Ex's Gate 54 Lounge in June, attracting an even larger crowd, and became a regular event on the bar's schedule.

iPod Jukebox usually runs from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., although MP3Js can arrive earlier to sign up for a timeslot. Admission is free.

Cafe Saint-Ex is located at 1847 14th St. NW, on the corner of 14th and T. The closest Metro station is U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo. Call 202-265-7839 for directions. E-mail The Cricklewood Massive (info@cricklewoodmassive.co.uk) for more information about the event, or visit ipodjukebox.com.

Frequently Asked Questions about iPod Jukebox:

Can anyone really DJ?

Yes. Just sign up at the DJ booth.

What do I need to participate?

An iPod, or any other portable MP3 player. (No laptops, sorry.) We provide the DJ set-up, including a mixer and iPod dock(s).

Is this really an iPod-only night? Can I bring an iRiver?

Sure. Any portable MP3 player with a 1/8" output jack is welcome, including those made by iRiver, Dell or Creative Labs. We're simply calling this iPod Jukebox because we (and many of our friends) have iPods, and we love them.

How does iPod Jukebox work? Can I sign up by e-mail?

You cannot put your name down for iPod Jukebox in advance; you have to show up at Cafe Saint-Ex and sign up on the night. This is done on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning sometime after 8:30. (Look for the list near the DJ booth.) MP3Js play in the order in which they sign up; you cannot request a set at a specific time (i.e. 9:30 or 11).

Why only 12 minutes?

We have short attention spans, and 12 minutes seemed like a good time limit. It lets more people show off their collections, and the restriction keeps practical jokers from playing, say, The Liars' 30-minute "This Dust Makes That Mud" and clearing the room.

Can I mix/crossfade/etc.?