"It's not about race, it's not about sexual orientation -- it's about music", BodyandSOUL promoter John Davies is fond of saying. And in the tight-packed New York City space that becomes BodyandSOUL each Sunday, the music and the crowd it draws are what you're likely to remember.

On any given Sunday afternoon, bands clubbers can be found whirling, singing, beaming -- some with eyes rolling back in ecstasy and arms lifted to the heavens. Some shout, some shed tears. Here, it truly is a spiritual thing. A sweet release that comes from leaving our burdens at the door for (as funk-great George Clinton would say) a chance to dance our way out of our constrictions. And all of this is made sweeter still by the absence of a restrictive dress code, allowing clubbers to come as they wish to get what they need -- even if it's a workout!

Sharing the dancefloor is what might be the most diverse crowd one could ever find in a U.S. club. In the racial rainbow, there's model-thin youth to rounded, graying wisdom. There's the host of well-built gay guys (almost always shirtless) with a sprinkling of conspicuously dressed European, Asian or U.S. tourist types. Straight folks and women can be the minority at times, but if you've really come for the music, you're not likely to care. bands also is one of the city's alcohol-free venues, so if you can't get the feeling from the music, best consume what you require before you arrive. Otherwise, find yourself moving among the music-happy who, despite varied backgrounds, are unified by their devotion to the soulful, spiritual house vibe that BodyandSOUL consistently delivers. (There are lessons here in tolerance and good relations, racial and otherwise.)

The dancing space at Vinyl, (The home of BodyandSOUL and also The Shelter) is on the smaller side, when compared to massive U.K. spaces like Bagley's or even the Ministry of Sound). Clubbers can watch as the DJs work from their elevated musical pulpit at the front of the rectangular room. The DJ booth is flanked by a snack bar and relaxation areas. Just off the rectangle's opposite end, there's another sizable chill-out room with its own concessions area.

Resident DJs Francios- K, Danny Krivit and Joe Claussell are preceded by their reputations. They blend their own musical efforts into a mix of the best the worldwide industry has to offer, taking us back with a few of the classics.

The sounds can be as diverse as the crowd, but you won't lose your step. In the same night you could be wailing in Portuguese with Vera Mara, strutting to Fela or Femi Kuti, singing Kenny Bobien, Jamiroquai, War, or Stevie Wonder. The DJs here love quality house, often with a jazzy feel, and you'll get a good dose of guitar, piano, drums, horns and other instruments in their selections.

BandS also is a destination for U.S. clubbers from outside New York because unlike in the U.K., Soulful house is available in very few clubs outside the bigger cities. Those who love it often must turn to the Internet, an out-of-state DJ, or a decreasing number of college radio shows. Even in New York where the music is more readily available, BodyandSOUL's John Davis, who is from the U.K., is running some of the most popular parties with the invitation-only/secret-location Rockstar Loft, Legends, and special events.

I have a vivid BandS memory of the first time I heard "Believe" by Ministries de la Funk. A thin young woman wearing a head bandana (this is fashionable NY club wear), her backpack, a long skirt, and running shoes was feeling the music in a way that reminded me of how people used to "get the spirit" in the Pentecostal churches I was exposed to as a child. She was bouncing high as if running in place and waving her hands up to the beat when the song's lyrics spoke to her. It is a memory that brings a smile every time I hear the song.

Moments like this are probably part of the reason some bands devotees have taken to referring to their club experience as "going to church."

This musical deliverance may explain the consistent crowds. I swear I don't work for them, but there is even good in being crowded here. Allow me to share what, for me, is the uniquely pleasant BandS sensation of dancing with the room. There are times when the crowd, which allows barely enough room to turn, seems to move as one -- on the beat. At those times I am not conscious of myself or my movements. On occasion, I've come out of one of my music/dance-induced trances to meet the smiles of those around me. The refreshed smiles communicate a oneness in spirit and that they, too, have not only felt, but been transformed by the vibe.

And despite all the dancing and sweating, the place smells good. Management might help ensure this. Among the "BodyandSOUL Commandments," which address proper club behavior, there is one for keeping good hygiene. (Thanks, John!) At various moments, you catch the mingled scent of mildly fragrant oils released by body heat. I suspect this is because many, like myself, bring along a small vile of scented oil (easily found in many sections of New York) for occasional freshening of our well-scrubbed selves.

I recommend early arrival for those who need space to get their dance on. Be warned, however, that the doors don't always open as scheduled. Last summer preparations for a performance by Chance, vocalist for the Sun Kids' "Rescue Me," had folks waiting nearly 2 hours in sweltering heat. (There, I've legitimized my account with a critical observation) Once you get in, things start with a "warm-up" set that's slower and moody. That sets the tone for those who are stretching their muscles to ease into the hours of vigorous dancing to follow. The groove is peaceful, mellow. On the freshly buffed floor there's now room and a dry, clean surface for moves that require a little shoe sliding (owners of the space discourage the clubhead practice of using powder for that purpose, as the dust tends to find its way into the ventilation system). Early is also the best time to watch those who like to show off their moves. It is New York City, after all, and professional dancers can often be seen among the crowd. Some recreational dancers put on a good show as well.

If you go, BodyandSOUL is at 6 Hubert Street every Sunday from 4 pm till late. It's $14 for nonmembers, $10 for members. For hotline, call 212-330-9169 or check www.bodyandsoul-nyc.com

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