Deejays Jeff and Rene--the “Afro-Boricua Connection”--keep some of  New York’s best dancers burning up the floors during their Friday night Windows Over Harlem After Work parties at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building. These past two-plus years, lovers of authentic Latin music have come to rely on them for first-rate entertainment, especially in this day and age, when too few places offer heavy-duty music, along with fellowship, in an elegant atmosphere.

I’ve always said that DJ Jeff has long had his fingers on the collective pulse of New York’s dancers, as has his friend DJ Rene. Their long association creates a distinct synergy, a sort of dancers’ paradise, when they work together. It’s truly “la combinación perfecta!”

And more than a few regulars packing the house on Friday nights are veteran Palladium dancers. I remember my dear friend, the late Ray Barretto, pointing out some of those same people  at other venues,  as patrons he recognized from that legendary establishment.

Another great  Friday night feature is the dance lesson given by Howie and Evelyn each week, from 5-5:45 PM. I, and countless others, have always enjoyed watching those two demonstrate their soulful, smooth, and inimitable style.   

Jeff and Rene have on occasion featured live bands, as they did with Grupo Latin Vibe this past May 1st, in celebration of Window’s second anniversary, and now they plan to do so more often. Eddy Zervigon’s popular Orchestra Broadway is one of the bands slated to heat up 125th St. in the near future. Presenting live music, giving exposure to local bands both famous and up-and-coming--and New York, the capital of the world,  is home to the cream-of-the-crop, when it comes to talent--is an integral part of keeping the music, dance, and culture afloat.

    

The two deejays remain committed not only to meeting and greeting their clientele, and supplying them with the best mixes possible, but to doing their part to preserve and perpetuate authentic, quality Latin music. When they play, they spin the “old school” classics as well as tracks by new, independent, and underrated veteran artists--another critical element, in terms of ensuring the music’s survival. The music they present, whether old or new,  inspires, energizes, and heals--emotionally, physically, and spiritually.        

It’s easy to see why so many have made Friday nights at 163 W. 125th St. a habit! Further info is available at: 646-468-0787.

Vicki Solá, host/producer Que Viva La Música, 89.1 WFDU-FM