Preview: Pop genre-bender Shamir returns to Montreal tonight

Shamir Bailey’s take on pop music knows no bounds. The 21 year-old Las Vegas native possesses a countertenor croon that brings to mind Nina Simone or Janis Joplin at one moment, before slipping into a young Michael Jackson-like squeal the next.

Last year’s full-length debut, Ratchet (XL), saw the gender fluid singer merging elements from hip-hop, house music, disco and synch-pop to create a truly unique style of dance music; introspective in places, without ever losing focus on the party. Like the best genre-benders – Prince, Madonna, David Bowie – Shamir’s sound is constantly in flux, the result of an artist showcasing the limitlessness of their influences.

After a sweltering sold-out show at Bar le Ritz back in June, Shamir returns to town tonight for what is sure to be a dance party like no other. Get on the train now, or be left in the dust.

Shamir with guest Hana at Theatre Fairmount (5240 Ave. Parc), November 19, 8:00 pm. Tickets are $18/$20, available here.