Posts Tagged ‘Barcode Vauxhall’
July 24, 2011 | 
Author 
Birthday Bambozzle
While there have always been a small handful of gay watering holes in Vauxhall, it was only when Troy Weir decided to expand his small empire and open up a smart & sophisticated spot right next to Area on Albert Embankment that Vauxhall became a little more than just a cabaret, clubbing & fetish paradise, Barcode very much offering a place for people to meet & greet, socialise & schmoose, as well as drink & dance. And from the very start back in 2006, it pretty much transformed this south of the river slice of the scene, adding an air of acceptance that had been missing from a closeted community that were still hiding behind blackened out windows & covered up club entrances, the opulent glass frontage & signage leaving no one in any doubt that this was somewhere warm & welcoming as well not being afraid to shout a significant statement.
Having pretty much made the place our local from the day of the launch, it hardly seems five years since that enthralling evening when Barcode first threw open its doors, such has been it success and the bread & butter nature with which it settled into the scene. Indeed, not a Thursday would go by when we were down on Albert Embankment, social schmoosing at one of the bars longest running club nights, Industri, the night & (in a way) Barcode very much responsible for our very existence. But the brilliance of Barcode went much further than that, so, along with Industri, it has cemented some of the firmest friendships we have to this day, has introduced us to a wealth of D.J. talent and form many a week, month & year, been a superb stepping stone to club outings across the capital, not to mention hosting some exceptional events in its own right. And when it comes to celebrating Barcode’s birthday’s we have been there with our (proverbial of course!) knobs on, the 3rd anniversary pretty legendary, not least for the images of our prancing that were projected here there & everywhere.
D.J.'s Doing The Barcode Business
However, as always seems to be the case of late, we find our devotions being torn between events, this last Saturday being no exception as we had made a commitment to Casa Latina, leaving a gaping gap in the coverage of Barcode’s 5th birthday. But fear not, as having taken on the services of our “Secret Squirrel” undercover reviewer a few weeks ago, we once again drew on his support, sending him into the anniversary audacity to report back and this is what he had to say.
“…Arriving at 11 p.m. I was somewhat surprised to find the front bar probably only about half full. So, having bumped into a small bunch of friends, we all moved down into the back room where Gonzalo was D.J.’ing, this bit of Barcode much busier than the other. However, not being able to drink left me a little bit out of sorts, especially as some of my friends were indulging a little bit too much, others also quite sozzled, bumping into me as the bar got busier & busier. By midnight the back space was really full, although to be honest, wasn’t feeling very birthday like, save for the occasional ticker tape explosions that showered down, no sign of dancers, stage shows or production that shouted “anniversary, birthday or celebration”. So, with Lovebox the following day calling along with a Sunday brunch date, I decided to call it a day at around 2 p.m., indeed with no sign of someone, a message was sent saying, “missed you, did you come out of a cake?”, realising that, in stepping outside I may have missed him, that & something else. However, the reality was that, while it was a busy night, it didn’t feel like anything special, the event not building to any point and I walked away wondering what all the fuss had been about….”
Bar Brand Left Beckoning
Well, it certainly seems from our SS’s assessment that, for some reason, there seems to be an undercurrent of unwillingness of the team to push the envelope with events like this, compared with when the venue opened, it being clear to us that Barcode finds itself in a current crisis of faith, having sold of its Soho sister to concentrate all efforts on the Vauxhall operation, but seemingly letting an important milestone pass with little or no fanfare. Yes, there have been some very positive developments of late, not least the marrying of minds with Area next door, making Beyond’s “Super Size” parties the huge success that they are and there is much effort going into reinvigorating the Sunday sessions which we loved so much, but with the demise of Industri and the disappearance of Soho has left us scratching our heads somewhat, begging the question, where next for Barcode? Well, a reshuffling of middle management is still very much in its infancy and we are expecting great things from the new team, but it is clear that further injection of ideas, of enticements & moreover, capital, is what s required to secure Barcode’s future in Vauxhall. There is definitely a market place for the bar, it is just a question of whether it can continue to survive on the one night in the week that it is busy enough to justify its existence, although all that said, given how much of an important cog it is in the clubbing circuit, we will be continuing to support it where we can and hope you will too. (DISCO MATT)
Brilliant Brand
Having been at the forefront of the march towards gay acceptance in the capital, Barcode was one of the first brands to offer a venue where the windows weren’t blacked out, where as gay’s we didn’t feel as though we were lepers in a social & clubbing community that was still frowning on our activities. Having launched Barcode as a brand back in 1995, a massive leap forward for Troy Weir’s creation came in 2006 when, at long last, the Vauxhall clubbing scene had a venue where they could drink, socialise & club, all under one roof, the opening of the second Barcode Branch on Albert Embankment being meet with critical acclaim, making it an instant success. And such was the popularity of this place, Barcode Vauxhall quickly established itself as one of the premier London gay hotspots, attracting the cream of the social scene along with a top notch set of resident D.J.’s across a host of specialist events & regular nights that have seen Barcode stand the test of time.
5th Anniversary Antics
Finding ourselves in the thick of the action from day one, we have seen much change in this vivacious venue and have also celebrated with it as it turned one, two three & four years charming the clubbing community, as the fifth glorious year is upon us, we couldn’t let the moment pass without, at least, as dinky devotion to this incredible insituation that was at the core of our very own incarnation. So, let’s take a look at this brilliant bar/club venues anniversary celebration which takes place tonight (Sat 16th July) from 9 p.m. onwards, both the front bar & the back club rooms sporting some of Barcode Vauxhall’s favourite star D.J.’s, while the team have plenty of surprises up their sleeves for their 5th anniversary antics, which in their own words promises a prolific party as they say, “…We might have aged a little, but still know how to do IT! This time it’s going to be huuuge. Expect great music from our djs – they’re gonna throw some serious tunes until you give up… But we want to amaze you, so this time be ready for some serious production!…”
The Legend
So, with music being the main attraction, the team are calling on some of the best in Barcode’s business, the near legendary Gonzalo Rivas heading up a team & sure to play the main set in the club space from 1 a.m., mixing up plenty of classics from across the venues five year history, with some of the latest sounds to hit the dancefloor. And having just last week sent a new podcast to press, celebrating his showing at the massive WE “Heroes” event two weekends ago (available at http://gonzalorivas.podomatic.com/), this on top of some terrific turns at Beyond in recent weeks, the man is definitely on fine form meaning his set for this birthday bash should show Gonzalo at his barnstorming best. Joining Mr Rivas will be Elliot J Brown, a DJ who has played regularly for both Soho & Vauxhall Barcode’s right across its combined 20 year history, Elliot kicking off proceedings in the club bar from 11 p.m., while Hugh Stevenson, hot heeling it from Lo-Profile, will pick up from Gonzalo at 4 a.m. taking you through to a super late finish.
Barcode Best
Up front, the Barcode team will be showcasing the promised production for this 5th anniversary birthday bash, with extra special decor, lighting & effects, while the music couldn’t be in better hands as the cheeky monkey that is Steven Artis kicks carries this party deep into Sunday morning, no doubt mixing in plenty of birthday beats old & new. Having been a busy boy with other projects of late, it’s great to see Steven back where he belongs & we are sure to expect a new podcast from him following this party (hint!) while his extensive archive collection of compilations are worth a visit at http://stevenartis.podomatic.com/. Joining Steve is Paul Coals, another Barcode regular who be kicking off the front bar music mixing from 9 p.m., Paul still smarting from a spectacular showing for Salvation just last weekend at Summer Rites in Shoreditch park, so sure to sparkle with another superb set that will go down a storm. Add to that, the chance that some special guest will be popping by and maybe mixing up the music a little, a host birthday drinks offers that form part of the extended happy hour (three in fact), as the team say “…as a special THANK YOU for 5 amazing years we will be having HAPPY HOUR UNTIL MIDNIGHT!!!!…” added to which there will be that “…Special production for the birthday with laser show, pyros & CO2 cannons…” that we hinted towards, all making for one exceptional event not to be missed. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | 
Tags: Barcode, Barcode Vauxhall, Elliot J Brown, Gonzalo Rivas, Hugh Steveson, Paul Coals, Steve Artis, Troy Weir | 
No Comments »
With our heads having been buried in computers & the compilations for well over twenty four hours, our minds are now focused back on the forthcoming weekend and one that looks set to be another purple patch period of partying with two exceptional events on our schedule. However, looking across the scene, there is so much more on offer meaning that it’s time to run through our Best Bites & Short Shouts across Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere, as the march towards the middle of the month marks to marvellous meets.
Wardour Street Wonders
To Soho first and our Best Bite pretty much a foregone conclusion as Profile & Lo-Profile get our choice again this week. But rather than run through the whole offer at these Wardour St. wonders, having visited two weeks in a row, we will let our reviews do the talking, , “I Want My Porridge”, which should probably say “We Got Our Porridge”, looking at Profile (direct link) http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-i-want-my-porridge-junior-moura-plays-profile-barcode-friday-1st-saturday-2nd-july-bite-size-review/, while with both Gigolo & Society playing a big part in Lo-Profile’s weekly offer, we combined both into one review which gives you as good a flavour as any recommendation (direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-soho-social-splendour-times-two-gigolo-society-at-lo-profile-thurs-fri-7th-8th-july-bite-size-review/). However, whilst it’s good to reflect, especially when it’s all about good times, it’s also great to look forward and this weekend, both Profile & Lo-Profile give you a lot to look forward to, the former sporting two of its longest serving resident D.J.’s Jamie Head dishing up the dance hits tomorrow (Fri 15th), while the cheeky Craig Daniels does the business on Saturday, both starting from 8 p.m. & carrying you through to the extended 11.30 p.m. curtain call. With a fab food offer, the friendliest staff & the best cocktails in town, check out more info of his sophisticated spot at http://profilesoho.com. As for downstairs in Lo-Profile, with Society steering you into Saturday, the man behind the concept, nu-funk exponent extraordinaire Brent Nicholls kicks off another session of this social come clubbing splendour, while Nick Evans takes up the music mantle till 4 a.m. Then on Saturday, it seems that Lo-Profile can’t get enough of Hugh Stevenson, as he is back for a second weekend, Alessandro Londra polishing off another wonderful Wardour St weekend, more details on Lo-Profile available at http://loprofile.com.
A New Era
Now to some Short Shouts & Rupert St get first bite, with D.J. Minx in charge on the tunes tomorrow night, while Oliver M, fresh from the La Demence cruise should have tons of terrific tunes up his sleeve on Saturday (16th) both selecting the sounds from 9 p.m. till midnight, details on this popular place out at http://rupertstreet.com.
To Ku-Bar now and having popped in last night, it seems they have had a major makeover (well since we were there last anyway), so definitely a more sophisticated look upstairs, while is business as usual downstairs, the DJ quest comp still in full force tomorrow (Fri 15th), while on Sunday, Lady Lloyd holds another “Hit Factory” happening, also not forgetting “Citric” on Monday (yes not the weekend!!), more info out at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Finally to The Shadow Lounge, who are right in the middle of a massive makeover in time for their 10th anniversary, this Saturday signalling the last party before they close their doors for the major facelift works. So, with furniture & other Shadow souvenirs up for grabs, Andrew Elmore making sure the sounds are spectacular, this should be a closing party to remember, while the new look is also extending to the website, where you can get all the info you need on what when & where, at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Saturday Spotlight
Onto Vauxhall and one event stands out among a sea of others in The Orange Group stable, as Casa Latina makes its second splash on the scene, with their “Super Car Wash” party this Saturday (16th July), we having covered it all in detail with our Weekend Focus “Brazilian Beats Bonanza”, out at direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-brazilian-beats-bonanza-cas-latina-super-car-wash-saturday-16th-july-weekend-focus/, and one prolific party you won’t want to miss. So, whilst Casa is standing in the Saturday spotlight, there is plenty else on offer, starting with Onyx tomorrow night at Area, residents D.J.;s including Lee Harris, Jc Christiopher Ariel & Lisa German, while straight after its another A:M Afterhours at Fire, proving a great excuse to push the euphoric envelope deep into Saturday morning. Then, with all those Latino’s out at Fire on Saturday night, they will definitely be in partying mood, so heading for Beyond on Sunday morning, while the team also party hard in Paris the previous night, The Oli & Paul Heron flying the flag once again. With Later on Sunday afternoon in a purple patch of partying, so should prove a draw, especially for those not heading out to Lovebox, while Booster keeps the clubbing going straight to Orange that carries you deep into Monday morning & a later crawl to the office or workstation. Whilst it is very much business as usual for The Orange Group this weekend, there is a new kid on the block night coming your way very soon, not to mention big plans for August, so here is where to keep your eyes peeled as the news breaks (no phone tapping required for info). But, you could also pay a visit to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties for more information on a full-on week of clubbing that also includes Gravity, Deuces, Open & Work, while to get guest list entries to clubs, clock on to http://gayguestlists.com/ & add your club choice after it (i.e. Onyx, Later, Booster).
Barcode Birthday
Onto some Short Shouts now and never say we shy away from something a little off our usual beaten track, but when a club celebrates a birthday, its 10th no less, then it definitely deserves a mention. And in this case, our shout goes to Bootylicious, marking this milestone with birthday bash that celebrates this clubbing of colour collectives’ coolest raves across a decade that has seen it hop from Crash to Area & then jump to Colosseum, where this party takes place on Saturday (16th), more info on this institution available at http://bootylicious-club.co.uk/.
Next & to a venue who’s Sunday nighter, Horse Meat Disco, will be in the thick of the action at Lovebox in Victoria Park (more on that in a mo), while The Eagle hold a pre-Lovebox celebration with HMD’s Jim Stanton on the decks, while the previous night, Tim Jones’s “Tonker” sees another Jones on the decks, Ross bashing out the beats at this bear-tastic gathering. With HMD back for a post Lovebox mash-up on Sunday night (17th July) and a week full of frolics, go check out the venues website http://eaglelondon.com for more info.
Now to another birthday celebration, as Barcode Vauxhall celebrates 5 years on the clubbing scene this Saturday (16th July), with an extra special party, bringing back some of its favourite D.J. residents to mix up the musical birthday cake recipe, Steven Artis joined by Gonzalo Rivas, Hugh Stevenson, Elliot J Brown & Paul Coals. Now, we will be devoting an Extra Bites post to BCV’s birthday, so keep your eyes peeled for that, but for details on this, the now singular Barcode in the capital, go to http://bar-code.co.uk.
Fab Festival Fun
So to our alternatives and Best Bite just had to go to Lovebox, which whilst in the domain of breeder land for most of its three day festival length, has a distinct homo feel to it on Sunday (17th July), when it seems the lion’s share of the gay clubbing scene will be heading out to Victoria Park to give support to the likes of Circus, Horse Meat Disco & Trailer Trash, who will be flying the rainbow flag over the exceptional alfresco event. But when you see the main stage line-up, there is plenty of gay interest too, as headlining are The Scissor Sisters, while big players Robyn, Kelis, Beth Ditto, Blondie & Marc Almond no less, all hit the homo mark, the list of performers stretching deep into double figures (we count 55), both Tensnake & Jonny Woo in the mix, while that Circus stage looks like one not to miss. And having spoken with Kris Di Angelis on the subject a couple of weeks ago, the live performance planned is one you simply won’t want to miss, the Circus top protagonists all involved, including Scottee, Tom Stephan &, of course Jodie Harsh herself. Add to all that a packed park serving up cabaret, circus rides, street theatre, vintage bazaars, art installations & much more and we are just praying the glorious British summer doesn’t let us down. Now, looking at the official website, http://lovebox.net, there are still both standard & VIP tickets on sale via the official suppliers, Ticketmaster & HMV tickets, but be warned, you will need to collect them on the gate as even we, having ordered ours two weeks ago, have to potentially stand in a queue for our VIP ones (not very VIP that is it?!?!). However, tickets aside, this is going to be a fantastic festival and one hell of a day for us, DM being on hand to review it all, while we will also be pushing out an Extra Bites recommends post, giving you the last minute rundown of where to be & be seen.
Right to a couple of Short Shouts to round off this newsletter and we head up to Dalston first, to The Dalston Superstore in fact, who are very much in the Lovebox mood with their “Optimo” party on Saturday (16th) when the Glasgow duo of JD Twitch & JG Wilkes roll up fresh from their Lovebox appearance for the city’s legendary club, that being Optimo of course, while Horse Meat Disco’s Severino rocks upstairs. With “Boydem” on Friday & a very special “Outside The Box” post Lovebox party on Sunday, Trailer Trash, Bodytalk & Hot Boy Dancing Spot combining for one monumental mash-up & The DSS is definitely the place to be, more info available at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Over at East Bloc and the boys are still in recovery mode after a superb Summer Rites festival last weekend, but welcome Fitladz to the fray, this boy on boy bash having uprooted itself from Vauxhall, picks this trendy Shoreditch spot to draw in some of those “aww right” East End ladz tomorrow night (Fri 15th), while it is a case of S.O.S., as this plu populaire night is back, the likes of Jim Warboy, The Lovely Jonjo, Scottee & La Gosse included in the line-up, more details on East Bloc out at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Tan Top Up
Right folks, we are pretty much there for another weekend, but just time to squeeze in two tiny mentions, first to tip top clubbing site SeenQueen, who have updated their own diary of events right into August, this & much more available at http://seenqueen.com/, while with the weather being what it is, maybe a tan would go a miss, the best place to top up & look beautiful being Solarstation on Archer Street in Soho, full details of offers from Hassan & his team up on their website at http://solarstation.co.uk.
So, with plenty to choose from this weekend and with every hope that the sun will be shining on the righteous this Sunday, all that’s left to do is to wish you a pleasant one, wherever you are & whatever you are doing, but if you find yourselves at Casa Latina on Saturday or Lovebox on Sunday & spot us out, come say hi, but remember what we say, which is simply “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Barcode Vauxhall, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Casa Latina, Circus, Craig Daniels, Horse Meat Disco, Hugh Stevenson, Jamie Head, Jodie Harsh, Kris Di Angelis, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Lovebox, Nick Evans, Onyx, Orange, Profile Bar, Rupert St, The Eagle, The Orange Group, The Shadow Lounge, Tom Stephan, Trailer Trash | No Comments »
Purple Patch Period Of Partying
With our second weekend back on the scene stealing much of our time, we find ourselves looking back on the previous one & the days around it, as London’s Gay Pride looks set to dominate our latest That Was The Week That Was report, we hitting the ground running, with more activity on one week than we had for a sizeable chunk of June. So let’s no delay you anymore as we reflect on what was most definitely a purple patch period of partying.
WE Check's In
Thursday’s of late have certainly been proving to have become the start of the weekend for many, it being no exception for us this week, as we headed down to Room Service for the WE “Heroes” pre-party, also taking in another pre-party at the same time, Room Service’s at Circa to be exact. And finding ourselves back in our feet meant we were also in review mode, capturing the whole evening in our reflection, “Pitron Posse Packs A Punch”, which kind of says it all, so worth look if you haven’t or another if you have, at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-pitron-posse-pack-a-punch-room-service-we-heroes-pre-party-thursday-30th-june-bite-size-review/, while the night marked the first of our march towards a Pride weekend in London that we won’t forget. With both Steve Pitron & Kris Di Angelis treating us to a superb soundtrack of towering tunes, Jodie Harsh & her team certainly know how to throw a prolific party and this time was no different, while news of the Ibiza launch, which went down a storm, was the icing on a resplendent Room Service cake. Watch out for another pre-party this coming Thursday (14th July), as they entertain Brazilian bash Casa Latina & keep checking http://clubroomservice.com for the new look website coming your way.
Proud As Peyton
Part of the reason why Thursday’s seem to have become the new Friday’s again is due to Gigolo attracting more & more people out into Soho, David & L.a. Hart having established this gathering in response to the success of Room Service, pitching their party against the former that has since seen the two sit as comfortable bedfellows among a scene circuit that sees many jumping between the two before laying their hat on one or the other. Throwing a Pride pre-party of their own, picking on Peyton to head up this magnificent meet, was just the attraction they needed, a packed out Lo-Profile reflecting on one of the best Gigolo’s yet, Messrs English & Fisher sorting the sounds spectacularly, Tony turning up the musical heat with an inspired & uplifting set, while Gutterslut guy Nick gave Gigolo that East London edge that played into the hands of the Hoxton lot that love his grooves, With their themed nights continuing, the Hart boys turn out another treat this week, as Terry Vietheer & Jamie Head “Go To It”, more details on this & all Gigolo gatherings available at http://gigolodisco.com.
Perfect Place
Moving to Friday and we found ourselves back in Soho for the third night in a row, this time taking in a splendid set from new(ish) boy in town, Brazilian beaut Junior Moura sorting the sounds at Profile Bar, while we engrossed in plenty of socialising with Steve Pitron, Naomi Ruiz & co, an exceptional evening of fun & frivolity ensuing with floods or familiar faces aplenty swinging by to say hi, while we were in our own floods of hysterical laughter at Steve’s naughty antics. And whilst there were pre-pride parties aplenty across Soho & Vauxhall & elsewhere, the mood was very much more Brazilian at both Profile & Lo-Profile, a special “Carioca” inspired Society tempting us downstairs, the delectable DouGuim setting this social splendour alight, while fellow countryman Leandro Kloppel continued to fly the Brazilian flag of banging beats. But Profile was enough for us, Mr Pitron pushing our delicate iron lung to its limits, a planned drop-in on Onyx shelved in favour of a respite, indeed with , top notch D.J’s on duty every Friday & Saturday, with one of the friendliest bar teams we know, plus a food offer to rival many eateries in town, as well as 2 4 1 drinks offers, a Sunday lunch that is unbeatable value, as well as their Tuesday “Steak Night”, this is one bar you simply have to swing by soon, full & further details out at http://profilesoho.com.
Capacity Colossus
Onto Saturday and London Pride 2011 was in full swing by the time we arrived at Soho Square about 4 p.m., the parade over & done with, the main stage at Trafalgar Sq having attracted considerable numbers, while the streets of Soho were crammed with revellers, our choice to head for The Fire Dance Stage & the heavenly hospitality of Craig Elder, Tom Fuller & the rest of The Orange Group team. And with a succession of superb back-to-back sets, as well as two P.A. performances, the second from Shawnee Taylor no less, belting out “Stronger” then “Live Your Life”, we played witness to one of the best square Pride parties we had seen, our review “Exciting The Iron Lung”, reflecting just how amazing it was, so worth a look at to http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-exciting-the-iron-lung-london-gay-pride-2011-the-fire-dance-stage-saturday-2nd-july-full-size-review/.
As The Pride Saturday for many continued in the streets of Soho, all eyes were pointing toward WE “Heroes” at The Coronet, although we preceded our planned trip there with a romp around Barcode Vauxhall, a night that became a huge part of the purple patch period or partying that we deluded to, the phrase of the weekend becoming “I WANT MY PORRIDGE”, which was cause for much hilarity, screaming, shouting & running (you had to be there!), our third review of this wonderful weekend give you a Bite Size idea of our antics on Albert Embankment, out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-i-want-my-porridge-junior-moura-plays-profile-barcode-friday-1st-saturday-2nd-july-bite-size-review/, also combining our previous nights shenanigans with Steve at Profile Bar. However, whilst the world & his wife went to WE, we were so tired out from mummy bear chasing goldilocks, we had to return home & rest for the following morning, instead sending our “Secret Squirrel” undercover reviewer into the thick of the “Heroes” action, our caped crusader reporting back on what proved to be a resounding success, not quite the sensation of “Candy”, but by far the largest party of the weekend, Coronet filled to capacity, Pagano & Carlos Gallardo apparently stand-out as was Shawnee Taylor’s P.A. performance. But don’t take our word for it, check out over “Secret Squirrel’s” take on this WE wonder at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-pumpimg-pride-party-we-heroes-saturday-2nd-july-bite-size-review/, while WE will be back for more this August Bank holiday, the place to watch for more info as it breaks being http://wepartylondon.com.
- At It’s Brilliant Best
So Sunday dawned and there was now only one place to be, all roads once again leading to Beyond, who had joined forces with barcode for a second time, cresting another super sized event, this one aptly called “Super Pride”, it turning out to be just that. And while we didn’t grace its doors till turned 7 a.m., it seemed everyone had got their bright & early as Area & the extended outside space was absolutely rammed, each of the three rooms of the traditional beyond side of this super sized space buzzing with brilliant beats, the likes of The Oli, Fat Tony, Paul Christian David Jimenez & Gonzalo Rivas doing the business. But, as usual, it was the main room that stole the show for us, first Mikey D delighting us with scores of superb sounds, although it was Steve Pitron that sent us over the top and into floods of emotions, a real tear jerking moment towards 10 a.m. requiring us to seriously get a grip as what we were witnessing in this, probably our best Beyond of the year yet (and there have been loads!!), just the thought that we were there but were so close to not have been so, enough to erupt our emotions, although the string of Steve sounds did their own job of pushing over the edge, so scintillating was his set. Indeed with such a lot to say, we laid down our first Full Size review n over two months and for good reason, one which you can catch at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-rapturous-return-erupts-emotions-beyond-super-pride-sunday-3rd-july-full-size-review/, while Beyond stretches its magic far & wide, a world tour which saw them feature on the La Demence cruise, continuing this Saturday in Paris, with Brazil, Spain & Greece still to come. Plus they are on the radio each Sunday morning, then pushing the envelope each week in Area, http://jonny-m.co.uk/beyond, the site to keep your eyes peeled for news on this brilliant brand.
The Only Way Is Orange
While our weekend was drawn to a premature end, having over pushed those still healing bones, it was far from it for many others, first Later at Fire with its “Funfair” theme bringing out the alfresco adorer, while so many who had been partying since Friday, continued unabated right through till the early evening when Booster took over. Naturally S.L.A.G.S/Chill-out had their say too, the sun shining enough for the famed “Grassy Knoll” to fill out, while a much better (funny that!) Dame Edna Experience made it an entertaining early evening, having got plenty of stick for missing the Pride main stage the previous day. Back to Booster and it clearly benefitted from the Pride effect the roll from WE to Beyond, to Later & then to Romain Lopez’s lure, Orange then carrying a near capacity Fire main room deep into Monday morning & the raptures of RAW. With Steven Sharp’s club night seemingly riding a never-ending wave crest at the moment, it was a shame our legs couldn’t carry us there, but August Bank Holiday will be a must, if we don’t make it before, more details of Orange & other gay parties at Fire available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Open For Post Pride Business
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday kind of took a hit following such a huge weekend, the usual hangouts reporting quieter numbers than usual, even a student filled Popcorn not quite the same as previous weeks, our “Secret Squirrel” having left early as it really wasn’t for him.Tuesday has always been a bit of a dead duck and this week was no exception, although it dawned with a Pride special Open at Fire, very much giving all those scene workers & others who couldn’t party across the weekend, the opportunity to do so, numbers filtering across for Popcorn and whilst never busy, it did better than usual. As for Tuesday night, it seems that “Candy Boys” at Candy Bar keeps sticking at it, while Mr Ryder’s strip shows pulled in a plume of punters. As for Wednesday’s, with no Industri, Barcode having closed its doors the previous week, Shinky Shonky at Ku-Bar & new(ish) night, Everything Taboo at Shadow Lounge, to hit with retro style sounds & clubbing, while Patrick Lilley’s Work, having found new residency at Fire in Vauxhall continues to pull in the people of colour & their admirers. Useful websites for these outings include http://popcorn-heaven.com, http://ku-bar.co.uk, http://eaglelondon.com, http://thehadowlounge.co.uk & http://patricklilley.com.
A New Era
Now to some news and to The Shadow Lounge first, which closes its doors this weekend (Sun 17th July), but not before a party to wave farewell to the old look of the venue. Yes, don’t panic folks, it’s not closing for good, but for a serious make-over, we being told it’s a little more than the nip & tuck we thought it was, the builders having already started this week, in places away from prying eyes, although it seems eyes have been straying onto those builders bums & other bulges (if you know what we mean!!). As for Saturday, Andrew Elmore see’s everyone off with stacks of latest hits, floor fillers & reams of remixes, while apparently, if you fancy the look of a piece of furniture & can carry it home, tables & all seem to be up for grabs and free at that. With their website getting a new look too, keep your eyes peeled at http://thehadowlounge.co.uk for that all important detail regarding the re-opening.
To another Soho institution that has closed for good. Barcode having been sold to the highest bidder, in this case Freedom, who, rumour has it, will be turning this trendsetter of a venue spot into a private members club, (boo hoo!!), we suspect for our breeder brethren to bask within. And having not been able to give Barcode a fond farewell, the way the transition from one owner to another was handled being a bit cock eyed to be honest, and given the 15 glorious years Barcode Soho has been not just contributing to, but making the scene a much stronger place, it was a crying shame that we couldn’t celebrate its achievements with a right royal send off. However, with Barcode Vauxhall still going, we won’t say strong, but like its former sister, playing a vital role in the gay bar/clubbing scene, this Saturday (16th July), marks its 5th Anniversary, so good reason to celebrate. We will be giving it a mention in our upcoming Best Bites & Short Shouts weekend newsletter, so watch out for that, while details on happenings on Albert Embankment can be found at http://bar-code.co.uk.
So, as we begin to round-up our weekly report, it’s time for our moment, track & tweet of the week, although having been so busy, we are finding it difficult to choose our favourite moment as there were so many, from the raptures of Room Service, the delights of The Dance Stage & the bravado of Barcode. But whilst the phrase is an easy one, “I WANT MY PORRIDGE” going down in legendary history, while our numerous “iron lung” incidents also proving classical, the moment has to go to Beyond when two tracks caught us with our emotional pants down, “Starry Eyed” & then “You’ve Got The Love” leaving us with eyes flooding & poor pal Andrea looking really worried. It was real emotion alright & many thoughts were flowing over us, but it is only Steve (& possibly Mikey) that can do that to us.
As for our track of the week, as hefty those two were, our vote simply has to go to the incredible “Pressure” which was with us pretty much every step of the way this week. With a number of versions knocking around, it is the original version by Nadia Ali, Starkillers & Alex Kenji that gets our vote, having been played at Room Service, Profile, Barcode & Beyond. No so much a dancefloor smash, its melodic rhythms & those sultry vocals very much hit the mark & while it has missed our “Summer Scorcher” list, will definitely be an “Autumn Anthem” and fighting for a top ten position in our year end chart which looks like being the most hotly contested of any so far. Check this terrific track out in full 6 minute glory at http://youtube.com/watch?v=NKfcg85fhTU.
Nibble Size Review Tweets
To our tweet of the week and after trawling through the 45 live Nibble Sized review posts we popped onto our Twitter page, the one that just about stands out over some real gems is one we sent to someone else (we won’t say who but you can probably guess), it stating simply “…oh!! The iron lung!! What are you doing to us? I WANT MY PORRIDGE!!…” this painting a magical picture of a truly memorable weekend that we will remember, probably for ever. Now, as if we need to remind you, if you want to catch our live commentaries this coming weekend (Sat 16th & Sun 17th July) at Casa Latina & Lovebox, then log onto http://twitter.com/discomatt, as we could have a repeat performance of Pride weekend on our hands.
Now, we finish with our usual reminder saying that you that that if you want us to shout out for your favourite bar, club or event that rocked & rolled in the coming week, then link into us via our main Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon and plaster our wall with your details or then drop us a line now at matt@discomatt.com. As we have hinted towards, this weekend will see us down at for Casa Latina & the on Sunday we will be across at Victoria Park for Lovebox, but will be back before then, rounding up the seven days from 8th to 13th July, so watch out for that. (DISCO MATT)
That Was That
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: Barcode Vauxhall, Beyond, Booster, Carlos Gallardo, DouGuim, Fat Tony, Gigolo, Gonzalo Rivas, Jodie Harsh, Junior Moura, Kris Di Angelis, Later, Leandro Kloppel, Mikey D, Nick Fisher, Orange, Pagano, Paul Christian, Peyton, Popcorn, Profile, Room Service, Shawnee Taylor, Steve Pitron, The Fire Dance Stage, The Oli, The Shadow Lounge, Tony English, WE Heroes | No Comments »
July Jigs
As we find ourselves pulling out of the second weekend in July, it seems the month is flying by already, although having been laid low for much of June, we have been making up for it since, with no less than nine bar, club & event visits under our belt since returning to the scene, but with plenty still ahead as much to reflect on from the last three/four days, we thought we would share our whole schedule from the end of June , right through to the beginning of August, so you can keep track of the reviews just gone, those due & the ones to come.
So, let’s look at the happenings already under our belt first and point you in the direction of the reviews.
Wed 29th June – Industri at Barcode Soho
Thurs 30th June – WE “Heroes” Pre-Party at Room Service
Fri 1st July – Profile Bar in Soho
Sat 2nd July – The Fire Dance Stage at London Gay Pride 2011
Sat 2nd July – Barcode in Vauxhall
Sun 3rd July – Beyond “Super Pride”
Highlight Hard To Hit
Reviews of all the above events, in either Bite Size or Full Size format, have been posted to our site already, the direct links being as follows :-
Profile & Barcode Vauxhall – http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-i-want-my-porridge-junior-moura-plays-profile-barcode-friday-1st-saturday-2nd-july-bite-size-review/
Fire Dance Stage – http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-exciting-the-iron-lung-london-gay-pride-2011-the-fire-dance-stage-saturday-2nd-july-full-size-review/
Beyond “Super Pride” – http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-rapturous-return-erupts-emotions-beyond-super-pride-sunday-3rd-july-full-size-review/
As for the rest of July and into August, these are the bars, clubs & events we have just attended & those we have already committed to our review schedule.
Thurs 7th July – Gigolo “Fever” at Lo-Profile
Fri 8th July – Society at Lo-Profile
Sat 9th July – Lovechild “Super Lovers” at Fire
Sun 10th July – Summer Rites “Remixed” Festival
Sat 16th July – Barcode Vauxhall “5th Anniversary”
Sat 16th July – Casa Latina “Super Car Wash” at Fire
Sun 17th July – Lovebox Festival
Sat 23rd July – Hard On! at Factory
Sun 24th July – S.L.A.G.S. 12th Birthday at The RVT, Vauxhall
Fri 29th July – New Night at Fire (details T.B.A.)
Sun 31st July – Salvation “Deluxe” at Cafe De Paris
Mon 1st August – Orange at Fire
Follow Our Activity
Naturally there may be other events that we may make it to, for instance, if our weary bones will allow, we might swing by the new night “Beat Trap” tonight (Mon 11th), while Club I is definitely on our radar, as is Tonker, Onyx, Brixton Clubhouse & Shadow Lounge, the latter celebrating 10 years in business this month, so keep your eyes peeled via our Facebook page, http://facebook.com/discomattlondon, for last minute news. Plus, don’t forget that we continue to report on the action, live, with our “Nibble Size” review tweets, which you can tune into or follow by going to http://twitter.com/discomatt.
So, that’s our “Dance Diary” for July and with five reviews already done & dusted, but with at least 10 more it come, its busy, busy, busy, so plenty of opportunities for us to be & be seen on the scene across the remaining three weeks of the month, leaving us to say is, if you see us out come say hi, but as always, make sure you “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Out & About A Lot
Posted in Reports | Tags: Barcode Vauxhall, Beyond, Casa Latina, Fire, Gigolo, Hard On!, Lo-Profile, Lovecbox, Lovechild, Orange, Profile, Room Service, Salvation, Society, Summer Rites | No Comments »
Profile Debutants
For many a moon & in days of old we used to love our bar hooping around Soho, previous career lives seeing us make this premier gay village very much our post office home, Rupert Street one of the hip & happening hangouts where we often laid our hat, while in more cent times, Friday’s became the domain of Profile bar, when a succession of D.J.’s took their turns spinning the sounds, followed by a purple patch period when prolific Phil Marriott performances couldn’t keep us away. However, Vauxhall also used to have its say, Thursday’s seeing us make virtual weekly homage’s to Barcode & Industri, while a weekend warm up before clubbing cavorting here, there & everywhere would never begin without a trip to Albert Embankment & Troy’s gaff. But times they do change & with alcohol consumption in Disco Matt land reducing to a trickle, the penchant for a pint in our local, whether Soho or Vauxhall, diminished decidedly, meaning our trips to Profile & Barcode have become few & far between. But with a fresh new talent on the D.J.’ing scene making his debut at both venues, not least he being the significant other of fabulous friend Steve Pitron, it didn’t take much persuading for us to play witness to two prolific performances by one Junior Moura.
Junior In Action
So, having had our Room Service fill of Mr Pitron spinning the sounds just the night before when Celso aka Junior was standing our side of the decks, come last Friday it was his turn to take control of the tunes, Profile the place & pre-pride partying the name of the socialising game, Steve in fabulous form as we arrived just shy of 8.30 p.m. to a healthy crowd of cavorters warming up for the hectic happenings ahead. And being greeted by the gorgeous Naomi Ruiz with yet another of those “Emperor” curtsey’s, added to our excitement which was to be topped when we saw main man Junior Moura behind Profile’s decks, already turning out tons of terrific tunes as though he had been D.J.’ing for years. Grabbing some refreshments while Steve & Naomi tucked into some tapas, we exchanged play for work, popping a postscript on a Pride report, but were soon distracted by the delectable dance devotions Mr Moura was masterminding, a string of superb sounds including what was fast becoming our track of the week, “Pressure”, very much hitting our spot, as did “Starry Eyed” & “Stronger” throughout a Junior jamboree of heavenly hits that had a slight Steve stamp to it, but showed a talent in his protégé that saw his set go down a storm, many trading drinks for dancing, while we savoured the captivating company of Steve, all making for one of the most enjoyable Profile pop in’s for a long time.
Main Man Making Music
With on gig under his belt, it was next stop Barcode Vauxhall, our Brazilian beaut having succumbed to all the pleasures of The Fire Dance Stage and with only a brief respite at camp Pitron, now faced a full three & a half hours in front of a post pride crowd that were ready to revel in reams of rhapsodies. With a little pressure showing & with liege Steve eager to ensure his Junior was set up & ready to go, we stepped back to the bar & took the opportunity to engage with Bel’s new Brazilian beau, Guilherme, merely in London on vacation & returning to his home in southern Brazil in just a few hours, although in this very short time had made such an impact on our tweeting friend, it being no surprise as we found him incredibly charming impressionable. But with Steve back by our side & with Junior now into his musical stride, we sought some fresh air that was to see our night quickly turn into something truly special & memorable, as within minutes the fabulous Jess arrived with friend Alyson who had clearly been indulging during the day & was in playful mood, made all the more boisterous by her latching onto the David Hoyle tale that Mr Pitron shared, the one part of his rendition that was to become the quote & phrase of the night, indeed of the weekend, “I WANT MY PORRIDGE!” invoking a whole series of amorous Alyson advances on us, leaving us a nervous wreck, running & screaming all around Barcode like a frightened little child. With Steve & Jess in complete hysterics & the naughty Mr Pitron egging her pal on, even invoking a duel attack with Bel tweeting’s & Alyson’s advances, we kept diving for cover, more often than not behind the tall & manly figure of Adam who became our savour of the evening, while Steve kept making matters worse by grabbing our arm & leading us into the Alyson danger zone, our iron lung hardly coping with all the hilarious excitement & that stock phrase, “I Want My Porridge” leaving the whole Pitron posse in stitches.
Brazilian Beaut Plays Barcode
So, with all this audacious activity going on, we somewhat lost the plot on Junior’s performance, only catching short shots of his superb sounds, although with familiar tunes a-plenty clearly going down well with his captive audience, many of The Brazilian bunch having arrived to lend their support, while Barcode was also filling nicely with a pre clubbing crowd that were lapping up Mr Moura’s magnificent music. But with our night of hilarity continuing, despite Adam’s insistence that we “man up” (us?!?!), the three & a half hours simply flew, our extrovert exhibitions across the whole of Barcode leaving us worn out & in need of our own respite before what was likely to be one of the most emotional events yet, Beyond’s “Super Pride” event beckoning and we conscious that we really didn’t want to be over tired & over exerted for our rapturous return to our most favourite club of all time. So, having found ourselves in the most captivating company, making for one of the most hilarious nights we can remember, we wended our way home to rest our now weary bones & recap on the magical memories made across this exceptional evening.
Casa For Junior
There is no doubt that the world of D.J’ing is a hugely competitive place, many vying for their own spotlight in a sea of stages that, especially in the capital, tend to be dominated by established & well known talent. Yet, there is always room for new stars to shine and in Junior Moura we reckon that we have one such star, he having been moulded by probably the best in the business along with a superb support network that should see him go from strength to strength. Having seen him in action across these two days, it is clear he has his own style, the Brazilian beat influence coming through every now & then, while he also knows when to play to his audience, a trick that is all too often missed, even by some of the towering talents around. So, with Casa Latina in two weeks time another chance for Junior to prove his worth, we predict great things for this Brazilian beaut and wish him well with his endeavours, hopefully tracking him all the way to stardom. As for our evening’s, Profile proved another one of those purple patch places in time, while Barcode will live in our memories for ever, the Pitron posse, Mikey, Jess, Alyson, Bel & co, plus the man himself proving the best company we could have wished for & that “I WANT MY PORRIDGE” phrase looking to become truly legendary, meaning we cannot wait for the next time we all get together to make more of those magical moments that made this night so memorable. (DISCO MATT)
Postscript
If you didn’t manage to make it down to Profile or the Barcode to see Junior in action, then fear not as you can make a date for Casa Latina on Saturday 16th July when Junior will feature large, while he has compiled two podcasts in the short three/four months he has been D.J.’ing, both superb examples of his style & well worth adding to your collection by going to http://djjuniorspodcast.podomatic.com/
Posted in Reviews | Tags: Barcode Vauxhall, Casa Latina, Junior Moura, Mikey D, Profile, Steve Pitron | 2 Comments »
Superb Supersize Smash
In any given weekend it would be fair to say that all roads tend to lead to Beyond, although come this Spring Bank Holiday, the meaning in this saying was all the more explicit, as with Spanish giants SuperMartXe & WE Party playing out beforehand, not to mention other happenings around the capital emptying out just before the supersized start at 6 a.m., Area was THE place to be come Sunday morning. So, having recharged our batteries following our fabulous but full-on fling in Rome, our planned arrival at Beyond slipping slightly, it was 8 a.m. when we were whisked into the club by colourful & delectable door host, Chrissy Darling, the place simply packed with party heads who were intent on taking in the full extent of this unique unison between Beyond & Barcode, the joining of forces of the two club venues doubling the size of both inside & out. And it was clear this “Supersize” event needed it, as it took us close on 30 minutes to squeeze our way down through to the main room, on our journey tripping into tons of familiar faces, not least Jamie Head who was weaving his wonderful musical magic on the cavorting crowd in The Terrace room, Minty also attracting our attention for a chunky chat, while when we found ourselves close to our destination, it was Tom Fuller who filled us in on the WE party bits we had missed in advance of this latest Beyond brilliance.
So, having finally arrived on our spot at this “Supersize” shindig, just in time for the start of what turned out to be a super sized Steve Pitron set, we found ourselves in floods of joyful tears within minutes, the build up to this bountiful Beyond spilling out of us, yet matched by the floods of mailer faces passing by & saying hi, not least Jonny Marsh who was pleased as punch to see us in our spot, our beaut of a Brazilian, Celso who was in close call for much of our morning, as was the adorable Andrea, who’s energy & vitality soon pulled us out of our tearful trips, heaps of hilarious happenings helping us on our wonderful way, not least when she moved in motion to the magnificent music, mouthing loads of lyrics at us. And it wasn’t too long before we were addicted to this Beyond “Supersize” party, anthem after Steve Pitron anthem sending us offshore with excitement, the miracle of his music seeing us release all our emotional tears in favour of spinning on our spot, not least to our “Doing The Disco Matt” theme, “Release Me” invoking similar reactions by all around.
Having taken a quick snap from our spot, it was not one or two, but three trips up into the D.J. booth upon the request of Mr Pitron that proved the heavenly highlights of our morning, we being joined on one occasion by Beyond beau Paul Vlad & belle Naomi Ruiz, we soaking up the splendour of this superb “Supersize” smash & Steve’s scintillating set, the crowning glory on our joyful emotional rollercoaster ride, being the tearful triumph, “Here Comes The Rain, onlookers to our lofty position including the delectable Delice top cheese, Anthony Aureal & the bountiful Ben Kaye. But with, first DouGuim & then Gonzalo Rivas also entering the fray, we were allowed our exit from the booth to party with Mr Pitron down on the dancefloor, but not before taking stock of the rest of this “Supersize” sensation, it very much living up to its name, as each & every inch was packed & pumping, Barcode also having their say on this superb spectacle. However, our morning was far from over, the calls by Steve & Andrea finding us back in the main room ix, Celso with us too, we also gyrating resplendently to the sounds of Gonzalo Rivas and loving being with this little Pitron posse, the Beyond lighting & effects at full tilt & the atmosphere amazing.
But, with the morning melting away before our eyes and the heat of this happening beginning to take its toll, we found ourselves ending up this “Supersize” stormer where we always finish our Beyond bravado brilliance, in The Terrace Room in the hands of Fat Tony & in the company of the face of the club, Tom Fuller, comparing notes on this colossal clubbing, meaning that, with so much more to super sized shout about, it’s “…ready steady, go for the review…” (DISCO MATT)
Prolific Pitron Podcast
Postscript
To mark the huge highlights of this heavenly happening, we couldn’t finish without making mention for the latest podcast offering from the one & only Steve Pitron, “Summer 2011 Vol 1” having been released just hours before this “Supersize” party & racking up super sized download figures too. With this 80 minute marvel including a handful of tracks played out at Beyond “Supersize”, if you haven’t yet grabbed your copy of this piece of Pitron perfection best you go now to http://stevepitronsessions/podomatic.com and sink into “Supersize” splendour as if you were back in Beyond, BRILLIANT!!!
Posted in Previews, Reports, Reviews | Tags: Anthony Aureal, Area, Barcode Vauxhall, Ben Kaye, Beyond, Chrissy Darling, DouGuim, Fat Tony, Gonzalo Rivas, Jamie Head, Jonny Marsh, Naomi Ruiz, Steve Pitron, Tom Fuller | No Comments »
Its definitely feeling like a short month compared to January, as we already find ourselves at the penultimate weekend of February and one that will see us running around in final preparations for our three week trip to South Africa, with more of that international reporting that is figuring in our lifestyle right now. Now, while we will be indulging in a just little bit of bar hopping & clubbing activity before heading to Heathrow, there is plenty on offer to tempt you all out this weekend, so let’s crack on with our choices of where to be & been seen in Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere.
Soho get’s our attention to start and Profile/Lo-Profile our first Best Bite, as it is without doubt becoming a firm favourite on the scene, Profile particularly finding very busy legs of late, tonight (Fri 18th) looking like a packed out affair as Nathan Six returns to the bar’s decks to rev up your weekend with some rip roaring beats, while on Saturday the cheeky Craig Daniels sorts the sounds. With a full-on American diner style food offering & that new Sunday roast option that launched last week & proved a sell-out, Profile is definitely the place to eat, drink & socialise, more details out at http://profilesoho.com, especially as its clubbing sister is just below, Lo-Profile turning up the dancefloor heat this weekend with a terrific line up. On Friday, it’s the friendly duo of Nick Evans & Paul Heron, both sure to pack out the place, while on Saturday D’Johnny & Alessandro have their musical say and with the revised & improved laser & LED lighting, along with the cream of the Soho scene choosing this hip & happening hangout as their destination, Lo-Profile is a winner, with more info available by going to http://loprofile.com.
Our other Best Bite goes to The Shadow Lounge and its Friday that seems to be getting much focus at the mo, last week’s Delice Dream’s pre-party, followed this week by a special shindig for the Miami Winter Party Festival, welcoming rising star D.J. Sonathaq to the decks who joins regular Miswhite, playing plenty of vocal house & pop remixes. With a special comp draw to win gold passes to Miami’s biggest gay party, plus exclusive Winter Party t-shirt giveaways, as well as free Attitude Magazine’s to every entrant, this looks like being a brilliant bash and well worth a visit, while Saturday is just as hot, as Inferno returns with the equally hot Andrew Elmore on the decks. Now, just a quick mention for Thursday’s as Glitz & Glamour now has The Very Miss Dusty O in charge and with Mark Bambach also on the decks, this looks like yet another night to hail the return of Soho as THE place to be & be seen on the scene, more details of this and all of Shadow Lounge’s events available by going to http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Now for some Short Shouts and Rupert Street is a worthwhile call-in with D.J.’s on from Friday to Sunday, Minx on duty tonight (Fri 18th), while Alessandro double heads on Saturday & Sunday, more info on this brilliant bar available at http://rupertstrett.com., while Ku-Bar tips the other end of the Soho scale, a good choice for the young set, Saturday’s the busiest with D.J’s P & Sharif dishing up dance disco to delight, but with a full week of activity & details a mere click away at http://ku-bar.co.uk
Barcode is also a great place to pop in & pop out, Friday’s as good early as late, especially with the dynamic duo of Joe Publik & Dilmar Brito on rotational residency, while Industri on Wednesday’s is finding its Soho feet, Minty always attracting a crowd & boys Brent Nicholls & Paul Heron switching sound selection duties each week, further details on this captivating club/bar out at http://bar-code.co.uk.
Onward to Vauxhall and The Orange Group gets our sole Best Bite pick, not least as it sports all the major clubbing events in town this weekend, from Gravity on Thursday to Orange on Monday morning & much in between. Of the nine offerings, two get our attention, Megawoof finding a new slot in the calendar, tomorrow (Sat 19th) to be exact, promoters Daz & Diddy now using Fire as the host home for the muscle-bear bravado of a bash, this latest affair looking like being a packed out one, with the new “Hardware” theme getting a second showing & the legendary Tom Stephan (aka Superchumbo) ruling the roost in the main room, with a supporting cast of Tim Mcloone, Daz Saund, Rob & Massimo across two spaces of sound. Then, Beyond continues the party action deep into Sunday, with a special “Erotica” themed event which should serve up plenty of sexual spice, with scintillating sounds to match, Steve Pitron confirmed in the main room line-up along with special guest D.J. Paul Heron, while Alan K completes the magnificence here, another special guest, D.J. Hawthorne figuring in proceedings, we suspect in The Chapel Room. Add to that Queer Nation in Area on Saturday night running straight into Beyond and “Erotica” will definitely be the place to be, while Onyx, A:M, Later, Booster & Orange will also get their say , further details out at http://fireclub.co.uk/fire-nightclub-london-gay-parties.php.
So to some Short Shouts and first The Eagle, Tonker tonight (Fri 18th) and Horse Meat Disco on Sunday the bread & butter in the sandwich, Luke Howard providing the filling on Saturday as he is welcomed as guest D.J., more info on this horny hangout’s happenings available at http://eaglelondon.com.
The RVT have plenty to tempt you in this weekend, S.L.A.G.S/Chill-out on Sunday spearheading a line-up that also includes Duckie on Saturday, as well as something quite special tonight (Fri 18th) as “Anthem” returns with the Love Muscle-esque might of Marc Andrews, Sean Sirrs & Rich B rolling back time with musical memories from those Halcyon days at the Fridge, details this exceptional event & much more to be found by going to http://thervt.org.uk
Two final Short Shouts go to Barcode which always proves a hotbed of activity, particularly on Saturday’s, info on the action available at http://bar-code.co.uk, while Union is a great alternative to the Orange Group outings, with plenty of action right through the weekend, Epic on Saturday’s headlining their extensive offerings, details out at http://clubunion/co/uk.
So to our alternative antics and The Dalston Superstore (DSS) tops of Best Bite pile this weekend, with a scorcher of a schedule, as tonight (Fri 18th) sees one on the biggest D.J. line-ups anywhere with a massive eight on duty across two floors of frenetic fun, “Back To Back” the event and electro/techno the name of the musical game, special guest John Roman flying in from Toronto to start his UK tour in the heart of the DSS action, while another notable inclusion in the eight is Caligula’s Sigmund Kraftwerk, the back-to-back nature of the D.J. sets serving up stacks of surprises for sure. Then tomorrow (Sat 19th) sees the ever popular “Body Talk” return, keeping it, as the boys say, “…oh so real…”, special guest Dave Kendrick of Macho City delving into plenty of Nu Disco, & 80’s/80’s groove & soul remixed, along with DSS’s own Rokk D.J., while “Oh So Real” residents Marky Mark & Tristan Reed do the business upstairs. Add to all that a new Sunday nighter called “Paris’ Acid Ball”, with Hannah Holland, Dan Beaumont & D.J. Squeaky serving up loads of NYC house, DSS is definitely the place to be out East this weekend, full details of all these events & more a click away at http://dalstonsuperstore.com.
Now to some alternative Short Shouts and to East Bloc first who have both “Disco Fag Bar” on tonight, then new night, “The House Of Fun” tomorrow (Sat 19th) on offer, the latter sporting the fabulous Smokin Jo in the D.J. line up, ore info on East Bloc & its events available at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
While in Shoreditch, you may want to check out Friday night frolic “Haute Vs Shabba Dabba” at Concrete on the High St. there, D.J.’s on duty including Erol Sabadosh, Jim Warboy & Larry tee, plus Shoreditch’s original son, Kris Di Angelis, so the music should be top draw, more details on the venue out via their website at http://concretespace.co.uk/.
Right, well that pretty much about it in this slim-line Best Bites & Short Shouts for another weekend and with our trip to the southern hemisphere kicking off on Sunday, we may well be off-line for the next week or so, re-surfacing in Cape Town at the beginning of March. So, while we are out of reach, the best place to see what’s hot & happening is by going to London’s clubbing bible SeenQueen, who have plenty of events listed & lots of options up to take you to the end of the month & beyond, a whole load of more features, music, pics, video & other links well worth checking out at http://seenqueen.com.
That said and just before we go, here are a selection of our what would be our Best Bite picks for next weekend, WE Party returning to London with their “Paparazzi” offering at the Coronet in E&C on Sat (26th Feb), this being the first of a trio of Orange Group outings , Beyond hosting the “official” afterparty, then Later celebrating its 8th birthday on Sunday afternoon (27th Feb), all three well worth a visit. Then, for the fetish in you, Hard On! at Hidden is a must, this monthly event taking place next Saturday, while another real alternative & another birthday to boot, comes your way courtesy of Gutterslut at The Rhythm Factory in Whitechapel, again next Saturday (26th Feb) and will be a packed out affair for sure.
So, that’s it from us, whatever apart from saying if you are out & about in the scene, you may well catch us hopping around Soho for a while tonight, over in Angel for SuperMartXe’s pre-party “Saturday Night Love’s London t Lola’s”, and then at Beyond “Erotica” on Sunday morning, all which will definitely leave us shouting “get us to the plane on time”. So, if you see us out come say hi, but whatever you are up to and wherever you may be, have a fantastic weekend and as we always say “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Barcode Soho, Barcode Vauxhall, Beyond, Booster, Dalston Superstore, East Bloc, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Megawoof, Onyx, Orange, Profile Bar, Queer Nation, Rupert St, The Eagle, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge, Union | No Comments »
Having gotten caught up in the raptures and romance of Paris last week, the run up to our weekend was full with sightseeing & socialising, meaning that precious little time was available to share our usual Best Bite shouts back here in the capital, although judging by pictures in the press, it was a reasonably sedate start to the shortest month of the year. However, with Valentine’s Day on our doorsteps, this weekend should prove that love is in the air & clubbing takes charge, with some special parties coming up. So, in our “more choice & less chat” style of Best Bites, as well as new addition, Short Shouts, let’s take a look at what’s on offer across Soho, Vauxhall and elsewhere.
To Soho first and Profile/Lo-Profile the winning combo on Wardour Street, Profile the ideal spot to start with socialising splendour, tomorrow (Fri 11th) seeing rising star Zach Burns spin the sounds, while favourite tearaway Craig Daniels dishes up the delectable dance & house hits on Saturday, the revised layout of Profile going down a treat & the place getting busier by the week. With a fabulous food offer, including a new roasts option launching this Sunday & drinks selections to match, not to mention probably THE friendliest team around, Profile is our popular pick, with more info on this bright & beautiful bar at http://profilesoho.com/. Downstairs in Lo-Profile, it’s all systems go this weekend with a true Beyond flavour to it, why? well all four D.J’s rank in the clubs heavenly history, current Beyond main rooms stars Steve Pitron & Mikey D sure to be a huge hits tomorrow, while on Saturday, Beyond original Brent Nicholls takes the early slot, followed by our favourite (are we allowed?!) Jamie Head, making for a quad of stars that prove an unbeatable combination in our books, more details at http://loprofile.com.
Over at The Shadow Lounge it is very much a “Weekend Of Love”, as Friday sees a special party as the drop dead gorgeous Delice Boys (yum yum) land in London and play host to a special pre-party for their very own “Dream Festival” which takes place in Barcelona in April. So, expect plenty of eye candy & the sweetest of sounds to match, while on Saturday, the equally appealing Andrew Elmore delves into his dance & pop collection to inspire a real “Inferno”. And as part of this “Weekend Of Love” the team are loving you with each night offering 100 free entry offers those first on the guest list, with free entry until 11 p.m. then £5 thereafter for the rest, now that is what we call spreading the love. More details on Shadow Lounge can be found at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk/
Our other Best Bite in Soho goes to Ku Bar on Lisle St, which is very much rocking & rolling the scene & one of the places to be seen this weekend, not least tomorrow (Fri 11th) as they host the “Mr London Escort Of The Year” comp, as NYC outfit Rentboy.com chose the hottest hunk to represent the capital in the big final back in New York later in the year, sounds selected by Alessandro Londra & Dusty O. Then on Saturday resident D.J’s P & Shariff select the pop-tastic tunes downstairs in Ku Klub, while we spill over into Monday (oops!) as the team celebrate four years in Lisle St with a Ku Club Citrus Valentine’s special, Brazilian dream DougUim on the decks. With goodie bags & Valentines shots a-plenty, more info on this event & other at Ku Bar can be found at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Short Shouts in Soho go to Barcode on Friday’s with The Cave & co, upstairs proving just as much a hot as downstairs with Jo Publik on the ground floor decks, details on this Soho award winner at http://bar-code.co.uk, while Rupert St serve up a roving residency D.J. team on Friday & Saturday, with Alessandro steering your Sunday, more info on the bar at http://rupertstreet.com. One other short shout has to go to Lucky Bitches (remember French & Saunders?!) at No 5 Club on Cavendish Sq, with legendary Tasty Tim playing big 80’s hits & the equally legendary Hazel Dean the special PA, more info on this club & event available at http://no5ltd.com/.
Moving on to Vauxhall and love is definitely in the air at The Orange Group, who have a foursome to fall in love with, the pick of the bunch for us being Lovechild which celebrates its 2nd Birthday at Fire this Saturday, all the detail & much more out in our Focus Special “Second Season Of Love” at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/02/dm-recommends-second-season-of-love-lovechild-the-birthday-saturday-12th-febraury-weekend-focus-special/. Preceding that is Onyx, who go a little anti-valentine (boo hoo!) tomorrow (Fri 11th) with the likes of Dusty O, Lisa German & Ariel Jc Christopher & Jonny M dropping a range of house from dance & uplifting through tech & progressive, across three rooms of fun. Plus with live shows, Gaydar promo goodies and hostess Chrissy Darling dishing out free shots, Onyx entry is the deal of the century at £1 before midnight & £6 thereafter, terms & guest list inclusions available at http://gayguestlists.com/onyx.
Looking at the other half of the foursome, naturally Beyond had to be in the package with their “I Love…” party and it continues the dream package with the likes of Mikey D, Gonzalo Rivas & Alan K (where’s Steve P?!) in the main room, while hard edged sounds are on offer courtesy of Hifi Sean, Paul Christian & D’Johnny across both The Chapel & Sunrise Terrace rooms, the gorge DouGuim kicking everything off in rip roaring fashion. Beyond is sure to be packed & pumping, meaning, save for a treasured discount pass, advance tickets are advisable from http://clubtickets.com. Then Orange go all out later on Sunday, well Monday more like, with their “Language Of Love” party, D.J.’s including Paul Martin, The Oli, Fat Tony & The Sharp Boys in the main room, while RAW residents David Jimenez, Hifi Sean & Gonzalo Rivas rip up the Mirrorarch space with a truck load of tough tech tunes. Offering their very popular “2 People 4 £10” entry before 1 a.m. (single customers £5), love is definitely in mind at this citric splendour.
Forging the foursome together is a special “Love Ticket” offer and one well worth grabbing as it gives you entry to Onyx, Lovechild, Beyond & Orange for just £25, a great deal and one available at http://clubtickets.com/gb/2011-02/11/the-love-ticket while other parties in The Orange Group stable include Gravity (Thurs), A:M (Sat Morning), and Later & Booster (Sun), more details on all eight can be found at to http://fireclub.co.uk/fire-nightclub-london-gay-parties.php.
So, with all that happening we have room for just one other Best Bite in Vauxhall and it is The Eagle, who on Saturday celebrate their 7th birthday with a special “Valentine Ball”, welcoming back the love him or hate him Liverpudlian, who will perform (surely outrageously?!) live, while D.J. Martyn Fitzgerald & Johnny Kalifornia will make sure the atmosphere of magical mayhem that always exists in this homo haunt should exceed expectations. Add to that the usual doses of Tonker tomorrow (Fri 11th), the hanky panky of Horse Meat Disco on Sunday and The Eagle proves a brilliant alternative to the big club options, so is well worth a look in, more details available at http://eaglelondon.com.
As for our Short Shouts, well it’s all change in top management at Barcode Vauxhall, although the magnificent music & brilliant bar/club feel is just the same, Saturday the scorcher, more details out at http://bar-code.co.uk, while The RVT never fails to delight with Kimono Krush on Friday, Duckie on Saturday & S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out on Sunday, no more needing to be said apart from heading to http://thervt.org.uk for details Finally, Union gets its say with the very ladish Fitladz on Friday & Epic on Saturday, two highlights in a full weekend of frolicking, with more info at http://clubunion/co/uk.
Looking elsewhere and out East to be precise, our first Best Bite has to be the fantastic East Bloc, which continues to create a real stir on the scene, this hip & happening hangout very much the place to be and be seen. And like last Saturday, this (12th Feb) looks hot, hot, hot, as out of this world, The Men Who Fell To Earth crew land on City Rd and open up an extra second room for their “Boy” version for Valentine’s, where you can bring your boyfriend or leave him at home, hosts The Forget Me Knots looking after you regardless. With dirty disco & remixed rock ‘n’ roll from the MWFTE men in the main room, as well as a special PA from Ireland export Bitches With Wolves, this is one alternative & audacious action fest you won’t want to miss, Friday’s illustrious Disco Fag Bar a sure fire certainly too, both combining to make East Bloc a brilliant choice to step out of the norm, more details on what’s occurring available at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
For our other alternative, we head up the road and to The Dalston Superstore (DSS), in, yes you guessed it, Dalston, Dan, Matt & the gang serving which have the usual hot bed of manic madness from Friday through Sunday, this weekend being no exception. So, Feel My Bicep is first up tomorrow (Fri 11th), this monthly popular party back for more with guest D.J. Neville Watson joining regulars John & On and Nasty McQuaid, brining funk, disco & Chicago house to this corner of London. Then on Saturday the hip hop Happy Shopper (a Dale Winton free zone!) outing stands under the DSS spotlight, with the likes of Prince Nelly, Ma Butcher & the Sink The Pink D.J’s in the house, meaning that literally anything goes in this madcap melay or a meet, while Tutti Frutti seals the deal on a whacky weekend, with D.J. Squeaky sorting the sounds on Sunday. And with news that the boys have a new website for all the info on this jewel in the Dalston crown, go check out all the DSS details at http://dalstonsuperstore.com.
As for our alternative Short Shouts, well we don’t actually have any for this week, but there must be some out there, along with more for Soho & Vauxhall, so if you want your bar, club or event included here or even as a Best Bite, then get emailing us at matt@discomatt.com or find us on Facebook via http://facebook.com/discomattlondon &/or http://facebook.com/pages/Disco-Matt/112730602119746 where you can plaster our wall(s) or pop us a message and we will do our best to include you.
Right , nearly it, save for our usual mention for clubbing website SeenQueen, who have plenty of their own recommendations for where to be and be seen on the scene, watching out for their “just seen” posts on Facebook and grabbing music & video links, interviews & features plus a whole load more by going to http://seenqueen.com,
So, with Valentine’s day on Monday, but with much more to look forward to before, whatever you are up to and wherever it finds you (maybe finding love – who knows), we wish you a wonderful weekend when hopefully love is in the air, leaving us to say, “Go There! Be There!” (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alan K, Alessandro Londra, Andrew Elmore Delice Boys, Barcode Soho, Barcode Vauxhall, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Craig Daniels, D'Johnny, David Jimenez, DouGuim, Dusty O, East Bloc, Fat Tony, Gonzalo Rivas, Gravity, Hifi Sean, Jamier Head, Joe Publik, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Lovechild, Mikey D, Onyx, Orange, Paul Christian, Paul Martin, Profile, Rupert St, Steve Pitron, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagele, The Oli, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge, The Sharp Boys, Zach Burns | 1 Comment »
Well, January is speeding along at a right old pace, although having been laid low since day three, we haven’t been indulging quite as much as we should or could have done anyway, although with Wednesday just gone was one of a few outings for us , plus an occurrence standing for B, on this occasion, birthday’s, as we indulged at Industri, joining in a right old knees up & good time for Minty’s, Paul Heron’s & Industri’s birthday(s), plus it seems regular Terry’s & guest D.J. Chris Brogan’s too. But with that enthralling event under our belts, but our ear infection yet to be banished, we once again tackle our Best Bites post at the 11th hour, bringing you our top choices in Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere, extending our choices a little & equalling out the exposure too.
Starting with Soho, we get straight to the point, Profile & Lo-Profile topping out pile, Friday (21st Jan) seeing an influx of new blood upstairs, as Room Services & up-coming hot shot Zack Black takes to the decks, firing up your Friday in full-on fashion from 7 p.m, while downstairs in Lo-Profile, Nathan Six makes a welcome return, kicking the macho & muscular music, while espaniol lover Tony English sets you steaming into Saturday with a storming selection of sounds. Talking of which, Saturday sees main Profile man Craig Daniels start off the night, then it’s another Beyond pre-party in Lo-Profile, with Nick Evans & D’Johnny trading up the tunes, while fab hostess Chrissy Darling tempts & woos you to Vauxhall with those sort after discount entry vouchers. With fantastic food upstairs & to die for drinks downstairs, Profile & Lo-Profile offer a weekend package that takes a lot of beating, further details available at http://profilesho.com & http://loprofile.com.
Over at the Shadow Lounge, its busy weekend business as usual, the discounted entry for guests on the list still operating, that means if you’re on the list it’s a fiver to get in, but if you’re OFF the list its as much as £10, maybe even more. So, before we tell you what’s on, go join their Facebook group at http://facebook.com/theshadowlounge & message Angel with your details. Now as for tonight (Fri 21st), it’s another “Therapy” sesh, with D.J.’s Minx & Mis-White mixing up classic hits with the latest sounds, while the ever popular “Inferno” takes hold on Saturday, resident D.J. & popular playboy (musically of course) Andrew Elmore selecting the pop-tastic tunes. Plus, having had our ears to the ground, it seems the team at this select spot in Soho have a new night up their sleeves, so with our finger on the pulse, watch this space for more news, although if it’s current Shadow Lounge news you need, then log onto their website, http://theshadowlounge.co.uk for details of these events & much more.
Two other quick mentions go first to Rupert St, who have D.J’s Jc Christopher & Alessandro Londra masterminding the music on Friday & Saturday respectively, while Barcode have another of their hugely successful “The Cave” nights tonight (Fri 21st) downstairs in the club, with Megawoof’s Tim Mcloone on the decks, while upstairs resident new boy Dilmar Brito is joined by the legend that is Jo Publik on the decks, the whole night being free of charge, wow!, as is entry to Rupert St. More details on both bars can be found by going to http://rupertstreet.com & http://bar-code.co.uk
Moving on & down to Vauxhall and its, yet again, another busy weekend for The Orange Group, with theirs already having started with Gravity last night, continues tonight (Fri 21st Jan) at Area with the overhauled Onyx, D.J.’s on duty including Oliver M, Lee Harris, Tasty Tim, & Paul Christian, then switching to Fire for A:M, seeing the return (although as a guest on the main floor), scene favourite D.J. Jamie Head. Saturday & Sunday in the Orange Group world definitely has B as the biggest ingredient, B on Saturday standing for “Birthday”, Queer Nations’ 20th at Fire to be exact, “Bear” as Amsterdam club brand Bear Necessity rolls out at Area, while on Sunday, B stands not just for “Beyond”, but for “Booster” too, Area really taking centre stage for the weekend as both clubs play out there. Now, we have already covered Bear Necessity & Beyond in a special Weekend Focus & our devotion to Queer Nation is coming right up. As for the rest, which also includes Later & Orange, more details are available at, at http://fireclub.co.uk/fire-nightclub-london-gay-parties.php, while guest list inclusions can be sorted by going to http://gayguestlits.com/ & then adding your favoured club after the forward slash, got it?!
Over at The Eagle, it’s a reasonably regular weekend, with Tim Jones & this Tonker tribe are back for more muscular manfest action tonight (Fri 21st), with special guest Alan X turning up the musical volume, while tomorrow (Sat 22nd), the venue takes hold, keeping it simple but saucy, with plenty of men on men marauding but with a fun & friendly feel to it all, music being of the old skool classic variety. Then Sunday sees a right old shindig, as the Horse Meat Disco crew wrap up the weekend with yet more dollops of horsing around action, the dollops not of the manure kind, rather of the mash-up musical sort, with the likes of Jim Stanton, James Hillard & Severino selecting the sounds. Plus, don’t forget that Tim & his Tonker tribe host the second room at Bear Necessity on Saturday, details of Mr Jones’ club available at http://tonker.co.uk while for The Eagle, go to http://eaglelondon.com.
Two other quick Vauxhall mentions go the The RVT for tonight (Fri 21st), when Boogaloo Stu takes over this venerable institution, creating another madcap melay, “Pop Kraft”, as only he knows how, helpers including Sparklemtion & Size Zero Albino (say’s it all), while on Saturday (22nd Jan), Barcode delves into all things “Deviate”, the brand going banana’s on us (literally!), this apparently being their favourite fruit, our Italian stallion, Pagano ruling the musical waves in the main space, while the front bar has Daz Saund along with Bills & Hurr hitting the house heaven. For details on these & other events at the venues, go to http://rvt.org.uk & http://bar-code.co.uk.
Right to our alternatives and first up & back with a bang is The Dalston Superstore (DSS), which hits the ground running tonight (Fri 21st Jan), with the re-launch of “Boy Dem” with D.J’s E-Man, Erol Sabadosh, Oliver Rant & Laurence Matthew, which looks like being a blast, while tomorrow (Sat 21st), Dan, Matt & co have a special night to mark the launch of the SMS (that stands for “Stop Making Sense”) festival in Croatia, which takes place this coming August, the DSS boys starting early (and why not!) with Marcus Wongul, Nadia Ksaiba, Mikki Most & Rokk joining DSS’s Dan Beaumont on the decks, all five a feature of the SMS festival in Petrcane. Then, to polish of the weekend, D.J. Squeaky selects the sounds at the madcap “Tutti Frutti”, on Sunday (23rd Jan) joining the disco dots with a bit of soul & classic house to slide you into next week. Further info on happenings at DSS, can be found by, by following the boys’ tweets at http://twitter.com/dsuperstore, joining their Facebook group, or by dropping them a quick ask at hello@dalstonsuperstore.com.
Back towards Shoreditch, City Road to be exact and it’s the enthralling & entertaining East Bloc that struts its stuff, tonight (Fri 21st) seeing another “Disco Fag Bar” roll into town, the DFB boys very much be ruling the roost as they welcome back both John Sizzle & Luke Howard to the disco decks, the duo being joined by special guest & Gutterslutter, our super Swede Per Q.X., while door hosts Kristoffer Chapman & Diego keep the entrance in order, Wayne Shires & Laurent Chaumet doing the opposite inside (but we like a load of naughtiness Shires style don’t we!?!). Then on Saturday (22nd Jan), it’s monthly night “Dare!”, with resident D.J. guest John Pleased Wimmin & special guest Jon Marsh (he from Beloved) & ASBO’s Alivin C, with a music policy that ensures only “the best new electronic dance sounds alongside those that inspired it”, sounds excitingly electrical in a past, present & future way. With news of a special night next Saturday (29th Jan) which includes the appearance of Shoreditch sons Tom Stephan & Kris De Angelis, both fresh out of the recording studio on a joint production, go check out these & more details about East Bloc at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Finally, a quick alternative attention goes to The Cambria in Camberwell, a typical traditional pub that has been given the classy as opposed to ghastly “Gastro” treatment and plays host to an afternoon of song & socialising with extra entertainment from hostess, the legendary Mz Kimberley & her special guests. Plus, Sunday wouldn’t be Sunday without a roast, the Cambria team serving carvery style between 3 & 5 p.m., with meze style snacks afterwards, making this “Upstairs” alternate affair a successful certainty, more details on the venue to be found at http://thecambrialondon.com/.
Right, with a little less fuss & a few more best bites, that’s just about it for our weekend round-up, but just time to mention our clubbing website friends SeenQueen, who have a hefty weekend weight on their shoulders, as Sunday sees the release of the “Your Disco Needs You Poll”. Now if you are reading this tonight (Fr 21st Jan), then we urge you to check your junk e-mails in case your vote needs verifying, as with the comp as close as can be, your vote could make all the difference. However, if your conscience is clear & you just want to know what’s hot & where to be seen on the scene, check out their new(ish) look website for their choice picks, by going to http://seenqueen.com.
So, all that’s left to say is, have yourselves a wonderful weekend, wherever you are & whatever you are up to, although if you find yourselves at Bear Necessity & Beyond, come say hi, as we plan to be there (ear plug inserted of course) too and as we always say…..”Go There! Be There!”. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alan X, Andrew Elmore, Barcode Soho, Barcode Vauxhall, Bear Necessity, Beyond, Booster, Craig Daniels, D'Johnny, Dan Beaumont, East Bloc, Horse Meat Disco, James Hillard, Jim Stanton, Later, Laurent Chaumet, Lee Harris, Lo-Profile, Luke Howard, Mis-White, Mix, Nathan Six, Nick Evans, Oliver M, Onyx, Orange, Paul Christian, Profile, Rupert St, Tasty Tim, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagle, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge, Tonker, Tony Englisg, Wayne Shires, Zack Black | No Comments »
-
24 Jul 2011 | 1 Comment
Reviews – “Birthday Bamboozle” – Barcode “5th Anniversary” – Saturday 16th July – Bite Size Review
While there have always been a small handful of gay watering holes in Vauxhall, it was only when Troy Weir decided to expand his small empire and open up a smart & sophisticated spot right next to Area on Albert Embankment that Vauxhall became a little more than just a ...
-
16 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Code Named Birthday” – Barcode 5th Anniversary – Saturday 16th July – Extra Bites
Having been at the forefront of the march towards gay acceptance in the capital, Barcode was one of the first brands to offer a venue where the windows weren’t blacked out, where as gay’s we didn’t feel as though we were lepers in a social & clubbing community that ...
-
15 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “From Latino’s To Lovebox’ers” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 15th to Sunday 17th July
With our heads having been buried in computers & the compilations for well over twenty four hours, our minds are now focused back on the forthcoming weekend and one that looks set to be another purple patch period of partying with two exceptional events on our schedule. However, looking across ...
-
12 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Reviews & Reports – “Purple Patch Period Of Partying” – That Was The Week That Was – Thursday 30th June to Wednesday 6th July
With our second weekend back on the scene stealing much of our time, we find ourselves looking back on the previous one & the days around it, as London’s Gay Pride looks set to dominate our latest That Was The Week That Was report, we hitting the ground running, with ...
-
11 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Reports – “July Jigs” – Disco Matt “Dance Diary” – Monday 11th July
As we find ourselves pulling out of the second weekend in July, it seems the month is flying by already, although having been laid low for much of June, we have been making up for it since, with no less than nine bar, club & event visits under our belt ...
-
5 Jul 2011 | 2 Comments
Reviews – “I Want My Porridge” – Junior Moura Plays Profile & Barcode – Friday 1st & Saturday 2nd July – Bite Size Review
For many a moon & in days of old we used to love our bar hooping around Soho, previous career lives seeing us make this premier gay village very much our post office home, Rupert Street one of the hip & happening hangouts where we often laid our hat, while ...
-
31 May 2011 | 0 Comments
Reports – “Huge Holiday Highlight” – Beyond “Supersize” – Sunday 29th May – Preview The Review Super Sized
In any given weekend it would be fair to say that all roads tend to lead to Beyond, although come this Spring Bank Holiday, the meaning in this saying was all the more explicit, as with Spanish giants SuperMartXe & WE Party playing out beforehand, not to mention other happenings ...
-
18 Feb 2011 | 0 Comments
DM Recomends – “Get Us To The Plane On Time” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts” – Fri 18th to Sun 20th February
Its definitely feeling like a short month compared to January, as we already find ourselves at the penultimate weekend of February and one that will see us running around in final preparations for our three week trip to South Africa, with more of that international reporting that is figuring in ...
-
10 Feb 2011 | 1 Comment
DM Recommends – “Love Is In The Air” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Fri 11th to Sun 13th February
Having gotten caught up in the raptures and romance of Paris last week, the run up to our weekend was full with sightseeing & socialising, meaning that precious little time was available to share our usual Best Bite shouts back here in the capital, although judging by pictures in the ...
-
21 Jan 2011 | 0 Comments
DM Recommends – “B Stands For?!…” – Weekend Best Bites – Fri 21st to Sun 23rd January
Well, January is speeding along at a right old pace, although having been laid low since day three, we haven’t been indulging quite as much as we should or could have done anyway, although with Wednesday just gone was one of a few outings for us , plus an occurrence ...
Event Review – “Bare Ches… : It would be fair to say that, over the years, we have s...posted on December 22, 2010
Recommends – “The Bel Ami… :
It hardly seems twelve months since we went str...posted on May 5, 2011
Reviews : Here you will find regular reviews of clubs, special ev...posted on October 7, 2010- Previews : Here we preview rather than review clubs & events that ...posted on October 7, 2010
- Music : Here we focus on, review and recommend the latest podca...posted on October 7, 2010
- Recommends : Here you will find recommendations for upcoming events ...posted on November 24, 2010
Reviews – “Eye-Opener Of … : Generally unplanned & unscheduled events in our clubbin...posted on March 2, 2011
Recommends – “Gay Boys In… : When the seeds were first sown on a specialist evening ...posted on April 11, 2011
Recommends – “Shoreditch … :
Having given East Bloc plenty of coverage in our We...posted on May 14, 2011- Reports : Here you will find reports & features on the latest new...posted on November 24, 2010
