Posts Tagged ‘Booster’
October 20, 2011 | 
Author Looking back on October alone it seems that even Alton Towers has nothing on the rollercoaster ride we have found ourselves on, last weekend a perfect example of huge Friday highs followed by Saturday lows, an amazing “Play Time” at Lo-Profile followed by missing in action absences from The Week & Lovechild. And our expected return to weekly newsletters was also on the rocks, our physical & so mental wellbeing having taken severe dent, although while we may be down & out on circulating the scene, it doesn’t mean that you should be, so it is only right that our recommends show should go on with a selection of Best Bites & Short Shouts tips of where to be & be seen on the scene in Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere this coming weekend.
Brilliant Bar
So, to Soho first and top of our tree has to go to Profile & Lo-Profile, the continuing success story of this bar & club combo attracting plenty of attention, well in our books at least, although it seems across the scene too, especially given a packed out place last Friday, both upstairs & downstairs. And then trend is surely going to continue in the same vein this weekend, with Profile serving up D.J.’s on both Friday & Saturday, while also serving up plenty of mouth watering food & liquid refreshments to wash it all down, all served up by one of the friendliest teams in town. Now, as for the D.J.’s, tomorrow night (Fri 21st) sees Rob Sykes take to the decks, no doubt serving up his usual cocktail of classics & latest hits, while on Saturday, relative unknown (we must find out more on him) Renato Ponto spins the sounds. In terms of that food offer, Profile’s Sunday roast is definitely worth a try, while their tempting daily bistro menu with the weekend lunchtime “2 for £10” offer is a great refuelling value for money temptation to drag you away from those Oxford St shops. And with a happy hour from 4 till 7 p.m. daily & the D.J.’s on show from 8 p.m., there’s every reason to start your night out early, more info on Profile’s offering out at http://profilesoho.com.
Time To Play
Now, downstairs in Lo-Profile, it’s a busy three day weekend, new(ish) night “Play Time” having replaced the former “Society” which has moved back to Thursday’s (more on that in our “Soho Social Soiree Shake-up” report out shortly), this week’s Friday night saucy shindig getting a tad sexier with the influence of home-grown porn star & all round birthday suit enthusiast Ashley Ryder, who brings some of his boys with him, joining handsome host Jay Roberts, while its just as eye candying tasty behind the decks, as the cute yet capable Zach Burns is back (officially this week), taking up the first stint, while Nick Evans completes the “Play Time” picture. Then on Saturday (22nd), it’s Lo-Profile in the raw with resident D.J.’s Nathan Six & Tony English sorting the sounds, the advertised billing that includes Alessandro Londra a tad inaccurate as our Italian bello is actually away in Poland on gig duty this weekend. But Lo-profile’s weekend doesn’t stop there, as the clubs major sponsor Gaydar has another celebration for its radio station’s 10th birthday with main man Phil Marriott hosting another “Secret Sunday’s” session, this event very much living up to its name with the surprise guest still under wraps, although judging from posted reviews, is one not to be missed. With Monday night meet “Beartrap” completing the Lo-Profile weekly package, check out their website at http://loprofile.com for more info on opening times, etc.
To some Short Shouts now and to Ku-Bar first, who have a full weekend of activity both their Lisle & frith St operations, the former sporting the likes of Dusty O, Lady Lloyd & DouGuim on the decks, while their no shortage young blood across on Frith St, more info on both available by going to http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Rupert St have a similarly busy weekend with D.J.’s on all three nights, our original foxy female Minx charging the tunes on Friday (21st), while scene favourite Brent Nicholls will no doubt be leathered up for his Saturday stint before heading down to Hard On! (more on that in a mo), while Alessandro lands back from Poland just in time for his usual Sunday slot, more info out at http://rupertstreet.com.
Shadow Sunday's
Onto the Shadow Lounge & firm favourites “Therapy” & “Inferno” fill their weekend, resident’s Sonathaq & Andrew Elmore, respectively, sorting the sounds, although we shouldn’t forget Sunday nights as Sister Dee Chanelle hosts the karaoke, live show & disco bonanza “Confessions Dbyk”, a weeklong list of events plus all you need to know on this Soho splendour out at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Our last Soho Short Shout goes to Circa which all too often gets overlooked, although is a sumptuous & sophisticated little spot on Frith St up the Soho Sq end, which we find a perfect retreat from the manic movements around and has the added advantage of being open till 3 a.m., as well as sporting D.J.’s on all three nights of the weekend, including Munroe Bergdorf & Heidi Liscious, more info available at http://circasoho.com.
I'm Free
Right down to Vauxhall we go and to The Orange group who head up our league table of treats this weekend, a sea of activity encompassing some of your favourite brands around, Onyx, A:M, Beyond, Later, Booster & Orange all having their say, while the centrepiece of the weekend is the “Fire Free Party” on Saturday (22nd) which also serves as the official afterparty for “The Big Gay Lifestyle Show” (watch out for our Extra Bites post on this). And when the team say free, they mean it, although you do need to get into the club before 1 a.m. (no real hardship) with an ad or flyer (it’s £10 without), a superb line-up of D.J.’s on duty including D’Johnny, The Sharp Boys & Leandro Kloppel in the main room, while Ariel takes over the lounge, accompanied with his percussionist, hostess Elektra Paris keeping her gorge go-go’s in check & stage managing the shows as only she knows best. Plus, with selected shots at a mere £2.50 and spirit/mixer’s & beers at £2.90, this is one austerity busting bash that will certainly not burn a whole in your pocket, rather get you in the mood for partying right through till Monday morning, talking of which, Booster, which was shelved a few weeks ago, makes a welcome return to the schedule, guest D.J. Oliver M headlining this Sunday (23rd) at Area in advance of heading off for La Demence’s anniversary weekend, so will be a set & showing not to be missed. As for the other parties, A:M’s promoter Steven Sharp leaves the club in the capable hands of his resident D.J. team while he jets off to Amsterdam, those residents including Guy Williams, Fat Tony, Paul Heron & Jamie Head (top draw or what?!?!), while no weekend would be complete without a squeeze of citric clubbing from Orange, The Oli, Paul Martin & Fat Tony in the main room & RAW residents Gonzalo Rivas & David Jimenez keeping the beats banging till gone 9 a.m., more info on all these outings available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
So to some Short Shouts and firstly you will see that we left out Le Boy from the line-up above and for good reason, as this is the first regular outing to take residence in new club Protocol which, given all the tongue wagging, is well worth a visit for the decor alone. Now Le Boy, having launched just two weeks ago, is beginning to find its feet, so for a sense of sophistication 7 style in an otherwise more manic Vauxhall world, why not pay Protocol & Le Boy a visit tomorrow night (Fri 21st), more details out at http://protocollondon.com.
Next up is venerable institution The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT) who, as always, have a fun filled weekend kicking off on Friday with a truly alternative night called “Seeing The Red Project”, presented by the Bar Wotever crew, while Saturday sees the infamous” Duckie” roll out another raucous party, Sunday of course set aside for “S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out” who have announced the release of early bird tickets for their NYE “Pink Ball” (early or what!), more info on all of this out at http://thervt.org.uk.
Rubber Up
To The Eagle now and a venue down on Kennington Lane very much masculine in it manner as well as its weekend events, not least “Tonker” tomorrow night (Fri 21st), promoter Tim Jones welcoming special guest Ben Jamin (not to be missed) to the decks, while Sunday’s are Sunday’s when its Horse meat Disco. However, these two regular nights sandwich the new to London “Cockette” (the name say’s it all) on Saturday (22nd), this Milan import bringing D.J.’s Max M & Gigi LP with it, so well worth a visit, as is The Eagle’s website at http://eaglelondon.com.
Our fourth & final Short Shout goes to Hard On! which returns this Saturday (22nd) to serve up your fetish fill at Factory, promoter Suzie Krueger supported & sponsored by Invincible Rubber this month, who bring a dirty sleazy rubbered up show to the party, the sounds just as sexy & sleazy in the hands of residents Brent Nicholls, Halo-is & Sharon O Love, while a reminder that this is strict dresscode as well as a members only club, all details of which you can find by going to http://hardonclub.co.uk.
Dalston Delight
So to our alternative action and we head out east for our Best Bite choice, The Dalston Superstore taking our plaudits this weekend with a full-on schedule that starts off with the return of monthly Friday night frolic “Back To Back”, this gigantic gathering packed with electronic house, disco beats & electro to techno tunes, delivered from a dream team of D.J.’s that includes Attaque, Ian Robinson, Kezokicki, Mr F & James Harris, this hip happening spread across both floors and for good reason as it does get, in the venue’s own words “…absolutely rammo…”, meaning an early doors arrival (we reckon before 10 p.m.) is well advisable. However, its Saturday that steal much more of the limelight as a special one-off night called “Strange Desires” devours DSS, Disco Bloodbath’s Damon Martin marking his own official warm up for Halloween and drawing on the terrific D.J. talents of Dirtbox, Crisco Disco, Jos Gibson and, straight in from Berlin’s Panorama Bar, their star turn Carsten Klemann, meaning the music is sure to be deep & techno based in the basement, while upstairs the feel will be a bit lighter with Londoners Dave Kendrick & Dan Beaumont in charge of the tunes, much more akin to the “Hot Mess” style of sounds that come out of this DSS regular, that being handbag house, disco, Italo & pop. And like Friday, with “Strange Desires” kicking off from 9 p.m., we recommend an early arrival to avoid not getting in or being crushed by the competition for a select spot, although on Sunday, it will not quite be the case, as D.J. Squeaky brings you another “Tutti Frutti” session to soothe you smoothly into the new working week. But the DSS story also extends to a fabulous food offer right across the weekend, this the perfect daytime retreat for a bite to eat and with everything freshly prepared on the premises catering for all tastes from vegetarians to carnivores and all at extremely reasonable prices too, the place is well worth a visit at some point, even if you can’t take in the full extent of their three nights of heavenly happenings, more details on the venue & its offerings out at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Right, to our final round of Short Shouts and we head down the road, to City Rd in fact, where you will find East Bloc, the venue that hosts parties such as “Gutterslut” & “Meat”, although this Saturday (22nd) sees a new night launched called “Songs Of Praise” and before you ask, no they won’t be screening the BBC1 Sunday night programme, rather the team behind “Kimono Krush” (of RVT fame) move across east to deliver a sermon of sounds that include pop classics & future house in the aptly named altar room, while in the chapel (it had to be!) it’s all about indie, a visit to http://eastbloc.co.uk revealing more.
Shoreditch Son Shindig
Next up is another east end offering, this time from Shoreditch son Kris Di Angelis, who has created yet another event/brand to brave the scene (where will this man’s talents end?!), “Love Below” having a pseudo Room Service feel about it, well in D.J. & hosting terms at least, as Kris is joined on the decks by Dimitry Strigun & Ricardo Borsi, while Munroe Bergdorf adds a touch of glamour to this unabated sex fuelled basement of a venue on Great Eastern St. (the place is GC’s at No. 54), deep house the order of the music. Now, we can’t provide a web link, but can direct you to the event page on for further details, which is http://facebook.com/event.php?eid=161645427262964.
Last but by no means least, although a departure from our usual picks, but keeping it close to home is a Short Shout for the Two Brewers in Clapham, which celebrates a staggering 30 years of strutting its stiletto stuff with a jam packed weekend of top notch cabaret (the stuff it does the best, better than all the rest) Friday (21st) seeing a special Drag Idol bringing back some of the competitions winners from years gone by, while on Saturday it’s the actual birthday bash, Sunday seeing no less than 14 of the cabaret circuit’s best, this the night we would recommend if you have to choose, details of the venue location & other tit bits (no pun intended) available at http://the2brewers.com.
Well that’s our picks for where to be & be seen on the scene this weekend, but just before we sign off, just a quick mention for our friends at Seen Queen who have been busy re-packing their shelves with lots of video’s & gallery pics from around the scene over the last few weeks, as well as looking forward to Halloween which is next weekend (ish), that on top of their own tip top choices (any the same as ours?!?), all worth a damn good rummage by going to http://seenqueen.com/.
So, all that’s left to say is to wish you a wonderful weekend wherever it finds you & whatever you end up getting down to, while for us it looks like being a quiet one as the shoulder injury won’t go away, but we are taking it day by day, so anything is possible, meaning if you do see us out, come say hi, naturally making sure you “Go There! Be There” (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | 
Tags: A:M, Andrew Elmore, Area, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Circa, D'Johnny, David Jimenez, East Bloc, Fat Tony, Fire, Gonzalo Rivas, Gutterslut, Hard On!, Ku Bar, Later, Le Boy, Lo-Profile, Love Below, Meat, Mix, Nathan Six, Nick Evans, Onyx, Orange, Paul Martin, Profile, Rupert St, Seen Queen, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagle, The Oli, The Orange Group, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge, The Two Brewers, Tony English, Zach Burns | 
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Also Back With A Bang
Having toiled over which direction we would be taking our regular weekly “Recommends” newsletter, in conjunction with our summer siesta, we gave this post a bit of a break while we rejuvenated our batteries & cleared the clog in that directional dilemma. So, finding our feet back under the proverbial table and having taken the decision to ditch what was always going to be a mere experiment of a change in the “Bar Bites & Club Cuts” concept, we are back to our former self & newsletter formula, that is picking out our top of the tree choices of where to be & be seen on the scene, as well as giving a mini mention to others that are well worth a look in. So, while our Best Bite & Short Shout format is back & here to stay, as we get back into the groove, we will be trying to make the post a little more inclusive, adding extra short shouts where we can & where they are warranted, although we will naturally be hanging our hat on those events that we either plan to review or would review, given the resource & time. Plus, we have included links to those parties that have got extra special attention via our Weekend Focus features, Orange’s 13th Birthday one, while, like us, SuperMartXe is also back with a bang, but more on those in a min.
Profile Package
So let’s crack on a look to Soho first which gets two top of the tree choices, Profile Bar our first Best Bite of the weekend and for good reason as this has now very much established itself as one of the more stylish & sumptuous places to be, the captivating cocktail of delicious drinks, fabulous food & magnificent music, intermixed with the amazing ambience that the smart socialising set it attracts, create. And of that music, this weekend sees two of its roving resident D.J. team turn out the tunes, Friday (9th Sept) seeing scene stalwart Rob Sykes spin some serious sounds, while on Saturday, the team welcome the cute yet capable Zach Burns to the D.J. decks, his Profile popularity no surprise given what a mature musical head he has on his shoulders, always treating us to a truck load of terrific tunes when he plays, so is sure to do the same this Saturday. But music aside, don’t forget the bars happy hour, which kicks in daily from 4 till 7 p.m., while lunchtime food offers make this a brilliant re-fuelling stop-off, the Sunday roast menu particularly appealing too. Plus, why not sign up for their new weekly newsletter which, along with much more info on the venue & its offer, is available at http://profilesoho.com.
Society The Spot
Moving downstairs and Lo-Profile has certainly stretched its appeal in recent weeks, due in no part to Thursday night frolic Gigolo, this social soiree splendour having recently taking its own short summer siesta of a break, but is back tomorrow night (8th Sept) with its “Stronger” event, Fredi Dimanche making his Gigolo debut and marking a very welcome addition to the resident team, while the clubs launch night sensation, Zach Burns kick starts the event which gets going from 10 p.m. So, with Lo-Profile’s weekend having already got underway, Friday (9th Sept) sees its own weekly social cum club night, “Society” stand in the Soho spotlight, Zach Burns making the second of three appearances across the weekend, although we certainly aren’t complaining, as he never fails to score with his superb stack of sounds. But, he doesn’t get all the say, far from it, as the pumping powerhouse that is Nathan Six takes up the musical mantle too and is sure to mesmerise the masses which his majestic mixes as always. But the weekend if far from over, as Saturday (10th) sees a real latin flavour to proceedings, as Gonzalo Rivas teams up with Alessandro Londra in an anglo Spanish/Italian concoction that should see the place packed & pumping all night. Add to that the Monday night meet “Beartrap” and there are loads of reasons to make Lo-Profile your dance destination, more details up at http://lo-profile.com.
Now to some Short Shouts and Ku-Bar/Club on Lisle St gets a first mini mention, Dusty O reassuming her spot this Friday (9th Sept) having compared the long running D.J. quest for the last three months, while favourite “Fabulous” takes over Saturday & Lady Lloyd’s “Hit Factory” steers your Sunday. Plus, if you missed seeing the winning D.J. scoop the prize last weekend, fear not as he will be playing at Ku’s Frith St pad this Saturday (10th Sept), more info on Ku available at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Next is Rupert St, still Soho’s busiest bar and a popular hangout to boot, not least that they have D.J.’s on duty right across the weekend, main resident Alessandro London taking his usual Sunday slot, as well as Saturday (10th Sept) this week, while Leonardo Glovibes takes it turn on Friday. But with a fab food offer & extra special prices on champagne & cocktails, Rupert S is a great place t be & be seen, more details out at http://rupertstreet.com.
Our third Short Shout goes to The Shadow Lounge which, after celebrating its 10th birthday a few weeks ago, has settled back into its regular routine, Friday (9th Sept) seeing “Therapy” with D.J. Sonathaq on the decks, while the ever popular Andrew Elmore is back on Saturday with “Inferno”, while they will be in the thick of the Soho Pink Sunday event next weekend (post coming up), more details on this Brewer St. Brilliance out at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Steve Thomas Treat
Right moving onto Vauxhall and there is lots happening this weekend, well if you are affiliated to the Orange Group that is, so they get our Best Bite, top of the tree choice, as a whole host of events are worth much more than a mini mention, so much so that we will be issuing a couple of Extra Bites posts shortly for both Onyx & Furrvert and with Beyond going “Super Size”, a report entitled “Spanish Scramble” will cover all you need to know about that. But it doesn’t stop there of course, as Orange (the club not the group) marks its 13th birthday this Sunday with a “Clockwork Orange” themed event, we having devoted a special Weekend Focus feature to this citric celebration, the direct link for our devotion being http://discomatt.com/web/2011/09/recommends-birthday-candles-on-fire-orange-13th-birthday-clockwork-orange-sunday-11th-september/ . However, with parties like Gravity, Later & Booster also part of the weekend mix, one afterhours that is really finding a new head of steam is A:M, the Saturday morning smash that is now under the steership of Steven Sharp, the man behind Orange, but also a well established & accomplished D.J./Producer and one half of The Sharp Boys. Having stripped A:M back to its basic formula, Steven is introducing some exciting D.J. talent to take the music back to where A:M was in the halcyon days of its launch, this week being no exception as Steve Thomas (of Trade fame) takes to the decks, joining a residency team that includes Paul heron, Jamie Head, & Fat Tony, while Mr Sharp is also impressing the “Majority Gay” policy of the club, while naturally welcoming many regulars of all genders that have been supporting A:M over the years. With further exciting guest D.J’s to come, this Saturday morning is a sure-fire (excuse the pun) sensation & well worth a visit, more details of this & all Orange Group events at Fire available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
To some Short Shouts now and first up is the institution that is The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT), a packed weekend kicking off with “Loud” tomorrow night (Fri 9th Sept) with Massimo Paramour mixing up synth pop, new wave & indie dance in an 80’s inspired evening, Pauline Henry from the Chimes the P.A., while on Saturday its regular romp “Duckie”. Then no Sunday would be complete without a “S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out” event, not even the forecast heavy rain keeping the faithful away & the venue rammed, more info on this & the RVT’s weeklong schedule out at http://thervt.org.uk.
Just down the road is The Eagle, home to Sunday smash Horse Meat Disco, which rolls out another session with residents Jim Stanton, James Hillard & Severino, while sandwiching Saturday is “Tonker” tomorrow night, promoter Tim Jones welcoming guest D.J. Micky Galliano to the decks, this Muccassassina resident well worth a look in, as is Eagle, further details on happenings available at http://eaglelondon.co.uk.
Our third mini mention goes to barcode, which seems to have taken on a new direction recently, also filling the boots that used to be occupied by Union, Steven Geller’s brands “Bodyshakers” & “Crunch” taking up residency, both extending the bar’s usual trading hours deep into Saturday & Sunday morning, both these parties of the afterhours antics type. Then there is “Fitladz”, which holds another horny happening at Barcode tomorrow night (Fri 9th Sept), although access for this men only club night is through the Goding St & not the main entrance on Albert Embankment, more info on Barcode out at http://bar-code.co/.uk.
Amazing Alternative
So, we move onto our alternative options, naturally headed up by SuperMartXe, which makes a welcome return to the scene this Saturday (10th Sept) with a lights out inspired “Blackout” event that is set to steal the spotlight for sure. And, having missed out on the last four, we will definitely be heading to Pulse, also having given it a big thumbs up in our Weekend Focus feature which you can check out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/09/recommends-logan-back-in-the-limelight-supermartxe-blackout-saturday-10th-september/. That said, we are pretty miffed that we will be missing out on another “Meat” party, which also takes place on Saturday, this Shoreditch shindig having gained considerable legs since having been launched back in February, co-promoters Tom Stephan & Kris Di Angelis having created a cult club that has grown in both stature & following, month on month. And it seems that the recipe to is soaring success is in both the music & the crowd, as the sounds served up by Tom Kris & a along with other roving resident D.J.’s including James Pople, Jeffrey Hinton & Munroe Bergdorf, the combo of electro & underground beats in the main room, with rnb, soul & classics in the “mincemeat” room make for a colourful combination, as is the crowd, east end boys mixing with west end girls, arty types, scene faces & even a smattering of big room clubbers making “Meat” their dance destination. So, with a “School Boy Beats” theme their way of marking the start of the new term, for a night full of diverse debauchery, you should look no further, full details out at http://facebook.com/event.php?eid=112923042144285.
So, to a couple of Short Shouts and just up the Shoreditch road is The Dalston Superstore (DSS), which also has packed weekend of events, two highlights being “Back To Back” this Friday (9th Sept), the name implying what to expect, D.J.’s Goodhand, Kezokichi, Sigmund, Kraftwerk & Dietrich mix up the music, while the “Body Talk” crew take over the DSS on Saturday with a special event dedicated to the music of Prince, promoter & resident D.J. Rokk, heading up a team that includes Tristan reed & Charlie Bones. Plus with Squeaky holding court on Sunday, the DSS has lots to offer this weekend, more info out & available at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
For our final mini mention we head back closer to town, as “Wig Out”, having moved from weekly to monthly is back, setting its superb stool at Ghetto Factory in Aldwych, this alternative, indie & 80/’s/90’s night welcoming pop princess Toyah Wilcox as their special guest, this goddess of the 80’s performing live, while budget beating door entry 7 drinks prices make this a poptastic night well worth a visit, more details available via the event page at http://facebook.com/event.php?eid=240144349363358.
Time For A Tan
Now, just before we close, a quick couple of mentions go to, first, clubbing bible website SeenQueen (http://seenqueen.com) who have had a bit of a botox makeover while we have been off air, the new look well worth a peek, as are lots of the features that cram its pages, while as we wave goodbye to the summer (what summer we hear you cry), it’s definitely time to feel good by grabbing a tan, Solarstation the place to do it, more info out at http://solarstation.co.uk.
So, that’s just about it for our return newsletter and look at the coming weekend, one which you can definitely catch us at SuperMartXe’s “Blackout” event & Orange’s 13th Birthday, while we may also make a stop-off at Beyond. So, if you see us out come say hi, but whatever you are up to & wherever its finds you, have a great weekend, remembering that to be & be seen on the scene you need to “Go There! Be There!. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Beyond, Booster, Fire, Gigolo, Gonzalo Rivas, Gravity, Horse Meat Disco, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Meat, Nathan Six, Orange, Profile, Rupert St, Society, SuperMartXe, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagle, The R.V.T., The Shadow Lounge, Tonker, Zach Burns | No Comments »
New Times Two
We never cease to be amazed by the wealth of new ideas, new projects & moreover new club nights that continually spring up across the capitals clubbing circuit, some ideas really capturing the imagination, others sinking without trace within weeks of launching. While Soho has clearly been getting much of the attention lately, successes Gigolo & Room Service two clear winners, not least as their marketing machines and social networking has been the key to their success, something that G&T was either lacking or failed to deliver, it seems that the spotlight over the next two weekends will move back onto Vauxhall, which continues to strive to serve the clubbing community with a wealth of events. And while Casa Latina was one of this south of the river scenes new(ish) success, all eyes will be once again on The Orange Group as they launch two new nights, one aimed at the male market and another at the Sunday evening (so called t-dance) scene that continues to bubble on the surface of success.
Be Blessed
So, it is to “Blessed” that we first devote our attention to, this new Sunday evening club launching this weekend (Sun 31st July), taking up the slot at Area that used to be held by Romain Lopez’s creation Booster, that club having started life in Union but came across to The Orange Group when the prospect of better marketing & promotions support presented itself, very much the key elements of a successful club. And whilst Booster very much found its niche, attracting a clubbing crowd that simply didn’t want to stop as well as a core following that made it one of the more colourful events on the weekly clubbing calendar, it was always seen by many as a stop gap between Later & Orange, being fed & then feeding its two peer parties. But by this very virtue, Booster has proven a success and will continue cut its own stride, whether seen as a feeder or a niche offering, but perhaps doing both as it moves from a Sunday to a Thursday at Area, the timings shifting slightly as it will run from 9 p.m. through till 3 a.m. each week
Blessed With Doug
However, we digress somewhat, “Blessed” being the first focus here and in creating this new brand the team are looking to strike a new identity for Sunday evening’s, attracting a new & discerning audience that like to know what they are going to get, the music makers coming from a stable of residents whose names & reputations speak for themselves, while in the brand, the connection with Sunday’s was a clear marketing move that will hopefully see this new outing being blessed with success from the off. And in the launch, the magnificent music for which the club bases itself on looks pretty much assured, as Fat Tony, Mikey D & DouGuim head up a residency list that also panders a little to Booster fans, as Ferno & Matt King will feature. Spread across two rooms, in the promotion teams own words, “…The Chapel is our sacred place to celebrate & dance your holy Sunday away whilst the Area Terrace room becomes the garden of Eden, with table service, wine selections & shisha’s for the perfect summery Sunday…”. And if that wasn’t enough to whet your appetite, then news is that a surprise guest P.A. will be centre staging the event too, although with details still under wraps, like us, you will just have to make it down to Area to see who.
So, it is clear from that statement that Blessed aims to be offer something much more akin to a Sunday t-dance, a room specifically set aside for music, while the other will be a place where clubbers can relax, take a breather, yet be pampered with table service, good quality drinks & all in an ambient area, the venue also benefitting from an outside space directly linked to this so called Garden Of Eden room. With us very much liking the sound of this new launch already, we will be sure to be heading for Area in Vauxhall, this new launch kicking off from 7 p.m. this Sunday (31st July) and running through until midnight. Now, if you are setting sail with Later this Sunday (check our Extra Bites post at ) then your “good ship Fire boarding pass” will gain you free entry to “Blessed”, while if you have been to the regular Later which takes place at Fire terra firmer as usual, then a stamp from there will get you in for just £5, otherwise tickets are on sale online at http://clubtickets.com, entry on the door available but for more.
Le Man
Now to Le Boy, a concept born out of the desire for something a bit more macho but without the usual dirty, sleazy feel of some clubs that have run at Fire in the past, this new venture very much a men only club, but one where sex is not the predominant feature, more a club where men can booze, cruise & dance. And when we look across the scene & then cast our minds back, this kind of club has very much being missing & wanted for quite a while, too many offerings falling into the trap that all gay men just want to get their dicks out, watch porn or watch others up to it (yes we know there are lots of you that do, but there are as many who don’t!). In fact Vauxhall has filled itself with clubs like that for too long now, Le Boy marking a refreshing change and in many ways, harping back to those halcyon & pioneer days of Crash, the club more than any other, responsible for putting Vauxhall on the clubbing map. Moreover, le Boy is aiming to bridge the gap between the vanilla style of Onyx & the sleaze that clubs like Rudeboiz were labelled, get our drift?!
Man & Boy Both
While, undoubtedly, this new venture will have a sexually charged & underground feel (we would be naive to think otherwise), it will be the music that will do most of the talking, the launch seeing three internationally renowned D.J.’s take to the decks, Paul Heron, Gonzalo Rivas & Hifi Sean, between them having covered every single continent of the globe three times over at least, added to which Paul Heron can claim to have been one of the residents from Crash (well he was a mere babe in those days), while Gonzalo’s clubbing pedigree stretches back even further, Trade being a major stomping ground of his before Crash was even thought of. As for Hifi Sean, well he is a bit of a Fire veteran, having made a name for himself at Juicy, since when he has featured in a whole host of parties there, not least Orange, where he is part of the RAW team alongside Mr Rivas & others.
Add to this, the prospect of a special superstar guest D.J. for the launch night & a regular guest slot for future parties, while no men only club would be without sexy, muscular & drop dead gorgeous go-go dancers, Le Boy being no exception, it will be more a case of sexual seduction rather than all out porn. That said, the team will be lining up a top London stripper, while they have also set aside a “Seduction Lounge” space, which has been described as somewhere where “… you can get hypnotised by the super sensual go-go boys & pole dancers captivating the room with suggestive moves and lots of flesh on show, a spot where you can also chill & relax with a drink with friends and take advantage of our titillating waiter service in an arousing and inviting surrounding..”. And this air of slight sophistication looks like it is in good hands, as co promoter Mauricio Ortiz has good experience in this field, plus given the excellent job he has done with Casa Latina, we have big hopes this new men only club in his hands.
So to the all important detail and Le Boy launches next Friday (5th August) at Fire in Vauxhall, door opening at 11 p.m. & the club running straight into A:M at 4 a.m., so ALL customers to Le Boy can stay on for A:M for free (bargain!). Advance tickets priced at £10 are on sale both online at http://clubtickets.com and at the usual Soho outlets, while entrance on the door is £6 with a flyer or ad before 12.30 & £8 with the same before 2 a.m. and if you haven’t seen them around as yet, the Le Boy promo guys will be offering discount entrance passes over the coming weekend at all the Orange Group events & around Soho, so keep your eyes peeled for them. And once in the club you can expect the big room experience every with live shows from our sexy go-go boys every hour from 1 a.m., as well stunning visuals from the massive LED wall, as well as video & plasma screens, pyrotechnics and big production that has become a byword for Fire. More information on this party launch can be found at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
So, two new nights on the clubbing scene within a week that will definitely switch the focus from Soho to Vauxhall, both very much on our reporting radar meaning that if you see us out then please come & say hi, remembering that if you want to be & be seen on the scene, either at Blessed or at le Boy, you need to “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Blessed, Booster, DouGuim, Fat Tony, Fire Area, Gonzalo Rivas, Gravity, Hifi Sean, Later, Le Boy, Mauricio Ortiz, Mikey D, Onyx, Paul Heron, Romain Lopez | 1 Comment »
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 »
Having taken a break last weekend from our Best Bites & Short Shouts recommendations as we honed in on what proved to be the real highlight of London Pride 2011, The Fire Dance Stage, also wanting to concentrate on our post rather than pre-reporting, putting our much missed full length reviews back on the map, we return with our look forward to the highlights of the coming three days on the clubbing scene, picking out our choices of where to be & be seen. And having already laid out hat on two, we will share the links to those Weekend Focus posts, as well as running down what best & otherwise in Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere.
Stylish Soho Spot
So, let’s get to it and have a look at the capital’s first & favourite gay village, rising like cream in a milk bottle being Profile & Lo-Profile (yes they’re here every week we know!) who are still very much talking the talk & walking the walk on a bar & club scene awash with also rans, Lo-Profile particularly proving an exciting alternative to our friends south of the river. But let’s have a look at its smaller but perfectly formed partner, Profile very much a stylish spot to kick start your weekend, not least as they offer the best combo of quality drinks & food that we know, all in swish surroundings that also sport some of the scene’s top D.J.’s as well as new talent on both Friday’s & Saturday’s to compliment the outstanding offer & warm you into taking a trip downstairs to bigger sister Lo-Profile. And this weekend looks like being another greater starter for clubbers & socialites alike, as two Profile resident favourites return to spin some superb sounds to get you moving & grooving to the bar-tastic beats, tomorrow night (Friday 8th) seeing Nathan Six dive behind the D.J. decks, no doubt still smarting from a stellar set the previous night for social splendour Gigolo’s “Fever” foray, while on Saturday (9th), it’s the turn of scene stalwart Rob Sykes to select those supercharged sounds & slide you into the dancing dervishness of downstairs. With the D.J.’s revving up the rhythms from 8 p.m., a happy hour running between 4 & 7 & plenty more on offer, go check out the bar’s website at http://profilesoho.com for more details.
Society Stars Set To Shine
So to Lo-Profile and the spotlight having been on Gigolo tonight (Thurs 7th), this Soho splendour having firmly established itself on the social soiree scene, tomorrow night it’s the turn of another glorious gathering with plenty of social style but a more clubbier edge to have that spotlight shone on it, “Society” reaching for the stars with two star D.J.’s of the scene, one of the biggest in the business, Steve Pitron kicking off proceedings from 10 p.m., no doubt treating us to a Beyond-esque performance full of all those adorable anthems & heavenly house hits we have come to love, while the cute yet capable Zach Burns makes its two nights in a row, returning to the Lo-Profile scene of the crime to lay down another stormer of a set that has made him one of the clubs shining new stars & very much a rising talent in our books, Zack taking over from Mr Pitron at 1 a.m. & carrying you through till the 4 a.m. finish. Then on Saturday, it’s the Beyond pre-party with one of this awesome afterhours former & one of current residents pointing you in the direction of Sunday morning & a date with Area, Hugh Stevenson starting off the night of musical magic, with D’Johnny fresh from WE parties last weekend in London & Madrid, caps off a superb session of sounds. Add to all that, a new night event “Bear Trap”, launching this coming Monday (11th July) with Ben Jamin & Phil Marriott in charge of the chunky tunes and there is much going on down Lo-Profile way, more details on happenings available at http://lo-profile.com
Now to some Short Shouts and first to Ku Bar on Lisle Street, who continue their D.J. talent contest tomorrow night (Fri 8th), with The Very Miss Dusty O, mistress of ceremonies, while fast forwarding to Sunday, gender bender Lady Lloyd legs its back from Trannyshack at Summer Rites to roll out another “Hit Factory” evening of pop & classic house, Monday seeing the delectable DouGuim spin the sounds at “Citric”. More info on Ku Bar & its events can be found at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Onto Rupert St and they roll our tow of their favourites to add to resident Alessandro Londra’s regular Sunday session, tomorrow (Fri 8th) seeing foxy female D.J. Minx take to the decks, while on Saturday, Oliver M will no doubt be sharing his tales of the La Demence cruise & some new sounds he has picked up on his travels. With a revamp on its way, you can still check out the bars website for offer info by going to http://rupertstreet.com.
Finally for Soho, two quick reminders, the first being a permanent closure as Barcode graced its exit from the scene last week, new owners, Freedom, about to undertake some major refurbishments, while its a refurb of another scale across at Shadow Lounge, which gets a extensive nip & tuck from next week, closing its doors until the re-launch in time for its 10th birthday on 25th July. Watch this space for a full feature on this stylish trendsetter as it celebrates its milestone, while we will let you know more on Barcode’s successor as soon as news reaches us.
Right onto Vauxhall and firstly we cannot contain our excitement in reporting the return of Alex Erfan’s brilliant brand Lovechild, which having taken a short break is coming back bigger & better. Now we covered their “Super Heroes” event, which takes place this Saturday (9th July) in our Weekend Focus post, “From Fire To Fever”, (out & available via direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-from-fire-to-fever-lovechild-super-heroes-meets-fever-saturdays-9th-16th-july-weekend-focus-special/), while to re-enforce our details, with this post pride party just a fiver to get in & offering a host of international D.J. talent, drop dead gorgeous dancers, magnificent music & sexy shows, it has to be a must on your Saturday schedule.
Recovery Rhythms
However, while Lovechild definitely gets our vote, our Best Bite goes to the Orange Group who are holding a weekend of post pride tank you parties, starting with Onyx tomorrow night (Fri 9th July) at Area & bringing you the best in “Classic” partying, with resident D.J.’s including Lee Harris Jc Christopher, Lisa German, Ariel, Jason Prince & James St James, play uplifting house, tough tech & purist pop across three rooms of fun, new promoter Verity Meyes, has introduced two new guests to the line up, Lady Lloyd joining the pop-tastic crew in the chapel room, while the delectable DouGuim toughs it out in the in the terrace space. With all the usual luminous laser lighting, prolific pyrotechnics & exceptional effects, the entertainment also extends to vivacious vocalist, Tonnic, who takes to a specially positioned stage in the main room, performing alongside both Lee & J.c across the events proceedings Labelled as much as a “Pride Recovery” party as a thank-you, the big thank you being free entry with an ad or flyer before midnight, while this free offer also extends to anyone on the guestlist that makes it to Onyx’s doors before the witching hour, that guestlist inclusion available by going to http://gayguestlists.com. For those not sharp or quick enough to make it before midnight, it’s still worth grabbing a flyer from Tom’s boys in town, or from the man himself who will be on tireless duty into the wee hours, entrance after midnight at £6 with that flyer, while its £8 for others, that’s if you haven’t bought your advance £5 ticket online at http://area.clubtickets.com. And if those special entrance offers aren’t enough, then drinks prices at just £1 for shots & £2.90 for selected bottles should please, more info on Onyx available by going to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Thank You Throng
Then it’s a case of looking forward to Sunday morning (10th July) as Beyond then stands under the post pride thank-you spotlight, serving up a special party, again to sat a big thank you from the team for making their “Super Pride” event the huge success it was, very much sending nearly all the other parties across the weekend sliding into the shade. Indeed, we were there to review it all, sparkling sets from both Mikey D & Steve Pitron, along with spectacular showings from a host of others including Fat Tony, The Sharp Boys & The Oli (check out our review at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-rapturous-return-erupts-emotions-beyond-super-pride-sunday-3rd-july-full-size-review/). As for this coming Sunday, we are expecting more of the same, The Oli & Fat Tony definitely taking charge of the terrace room, while the future house chapel space will see regular Paul Christian joined by Hifi Sean, fresh from his exploits over in Spain for Madrid Pride last weekend. As for the main room, while we are still awaiting the final line-up, but are hedging our bets on a return for Paul Heron, fresh from his La Demence cruise exploits & having played for Beyond on the boat day six, while we are flipping a coin between Messrs Dower, Rivas & The Sharp’s to pick up the other two slots on this superb shindig. Now, here’s the deal on that thank you that the team are offering and it comes with one of their best ever, as with your hands on the Beyond “Pride Thank You Party” flyer, entry before 8 a.m. is just £5, that’s a full £15 discount on the usual door price entry. However, for those not wise enough to get in on this amazing act, then advance tickets at £10 are available at outlets Prowler, Clone Zone & 50, at bars Rupert St & The Yard, as well as online at http://area.clubtickets.com, with further details available at the clubs dedicated website run by promoter Jonny Marsh at http://jonny-m.co.uk/beyond. Plus, don’t forget “Beyond On the Radio”, which sports a whole seven hours of those spectacular sets from last week’s “Super Pride” event, this being no better way to warm up for the club itself, than by tuning in at http://gaydarradio.com.
Now to some Short Shouts & we stay with The Orange Group for our first, as the team now have not one day in the week to rest as Patrick Lilley’s “Work” club runs from The Lightbox at Fire each Wednesday, completing an exhaustive line-up that also includes Gravity on Thursday’s, A:M on Saturday morning, Later Sunday afternoon, Orange Monday morning & Open on Tuesday’s, while over at Area, Beyond & Onyx are joined by Deuces on a Thursday & Booster on a Sunday night, details of all these events available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Our other Vauxhall Short Shout goes to The Eagle who have a full weekend on offer, Friday set aside for Tim Jones’ “Tonker”, while on Sunday its Jim Stanton & James Hillard’s “Horse Meat Disco”. But the big gun is the return of “Sugar” this coming Saturday (9th July)the iconic nineties & noughties RnB slanted shindig with headline D.J. Anthony Crank supported by the likes of Simon Allen, Lee Thomas & Simon Kilner, all with a brilliant bag of beats to barnstorm this epic event, so well worth a look in. For details of these & other events across the week, go to http://eaglelondon.com.
Fabulous Festival Fun
So to our alternatives and to the hint from our post title, as Sunday afternoon & afterwards looks set to be dominated by the return of fabulous festival Summer Rites, which holds its boutique clubbing style outdoor event “Remixed” at Shoreditch Park, we having covered the devil in the detail in our Weekend Focus post “Fantastic Festival Re-Formed” (out at direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-fantastic-festival-re-formed-summer-rites-re-mixed-sunday-10th-july-weekend-focus/), the team behind this Hoxton happening very much very much praying for some sun amidst what is a spell of vey unseasonable weather, yet will be THE place to be come Sunday afternoon. So, without doubt Summer Rites “Remixed gets our alternative Best Bite vote for this weekend, the detail laid out for all to see in our focus post. However, to recap on some of the important info, please note that online tickets while still available at http://summer-rites.com priced at £20, you will need to collect these at the entry gates, while outlets Prowler & Expectations are selling too, although only have a limited stock available, so it’s worth placing a call before you visit. Failing that, you can pay for entry at the park gates, although please ensure you have the readies with you, as card payments cannot be accepted. And just to remind you that with brilliant clubbing brands out in force including Salvation, Trannyshack, XXL, Meat, Gutterslut & Bootylicious, this is one outdoor event, brolley or not, you won’t want to miss. However, one part of proceedings we didn’t hit off in our extensive Summer Rites devotion, was the afterparty arrangements, “Encore” being the “official post festival gathering at urban warehouse venue, Village Underground, just 15 minutes away from Shoreditch Park, this party kicking off from 9 p.m. until late & sporting a D.J. line-up that includes Per Q.X, Tom Stephan, Jeffrey Hinton & Paul Coals, while entry to this event is a mere £5 with wristband, (until 11 p.m. & available in the park all day) plus £5 before 10 p.m. or £10 otherwise, more details available at http://summer-rites.com or http://eastbloc.co.uk.
So, to a couple of Short Shouts to round off our Weekend recommendations & we cannot resist serving up a double dose of “Meat”, as Tom Stephan will not only be flying this magnificent meet’s flag at Summer Rites, but the night before (Sat 9th July) will be in the thick of the action at host venue, East Bloc, along with Meat men Kris Di Angelis & James Pople, while Munroe Bergdorf & Kingsley look after room two. But while this will be a Saturday storm (more details at http://eastbloc.co.uk) Sunday will see Tom & his team serve up more Meat go-go’s, more Meat comedy/twisted porn, bigger beats from Messrs Stephan & Pople & the promise of the biggest tent in the park meaning it’s time to get your fill of Meat “Two Ways”.
Our other Short Shout goes to the return of one of the alternative clubbing scene’s greatest, as “Wig Out” comes at ya this coming Saturday (9th July), oh the choice!!!, this pop institution that was forced to close when host venue Ghetto was condemned to the bulldozer to make way for Crossrail, makes a triumphant scene resurgence at the aptly named Ghetto Factory, off Aldwych, with a special performance by none other than Pete Burns, while D.J.’s on duty will include Tommy Turntables & Lady Lloyd., added to which 2-4-1 drinks from opening at 10 p.m. for the first (happy) hour & not over £2.80 afterwards is as big a draw for some as Pete is for others.
Right, that’s just about it for another week, but a reminder that if you would like us to give your favourite bar, club or event a Short Shout, or even if you feel it deserves a Best Bite inclusion, then drop us a line at matt@discomatt.com, or send us a message via our Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon. Plus, we will be launching a new section on our website called “Lists”, where will be popping regular brief posts detailing the all important information of those choices where DM reckons you should be & be seen on the scene, so keep your eyes peeled for more news on that.
In the meantime, we hope you like our choices here and wish you a wonderful weekend, while for us, it looks like we will be popping into “Society” at Lo-Profile tomorrow night (Fri 8th July) for a catch up with Messrs Pitron & Burns, while on Saturday, it’s a “Super Lovers” night as we will be on review duty at Lovechild, Sunday being devoted to Shoreditch Park & Summer Rites “Remixed”. So, if you see us out, come say hi, but wherever you are & whatever you do, make sure you “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Area, Ariel, Beyond, Booster, D'Johnny, Deuces, East Bloc, Gonzalo Rivas, Gravity, Hifi Sean, Hugh Stevenson, James Pople, Jc Christopher, Kris Di Angelis, Ku Bar, Lady Lloyd, Later, Lee Harris, Lisa German, Lo-Profile, Lovechild Fire, Meat, Minx, Nathan Six, Oliver M, Onyx, Orange, Paul Heron, Per Q.X., Porfile, Rob Sykes, Rupert St, Salvation, Steve Pitron, Summer Rites, The Oli, The Orange Group, The Sharp Boys, Trannyshack, Wig Out, Work, Zack Burns | No Comments »
Finding ourselves on the cusp of the final weekend of the month, whilst the weather is not quite flaming as one would expect in June, it seems that the scattering of showers & unseasonal winds will be behind us as we mark the advent of alfresco antics across the capitals clubbing scene, Gay Pride next weekend followed by a succession of festivals including Summer Rites, Lovebox & SW4, although this weekend is very much the domain of Clapham as it rolls out another street party across an afternoon & evening on Saturday that should see the sun shine right through. But, that aside, there is plenty on offer to pull out the party heads this weekend, so we take a look at our choices of where to be & be seen on the scene across Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere.
Wardour St Wow
So, to Soho first and we cannot find any other to fill our Best Bite slot than the dynamic duo that is Profile & Lo-Profile, this Wardour St spot still tipping the popularity scales, Profile proving a delight of a distraction from the marauding’s of Compton St & co, especially around lunch time (well 11 till 4 to be exact) when their 2 main courses for £10 offer kicks in, while the bargains continue between 4 & 7, when its happy hour (or is that three!?) with outstanding offers on spirits, wine & beer, plus not forgetting that the bar boasts a considerable cocktail menu for you to plough your way through. However, it is when the clock strikes 8 p.m. each Friday & Saturday that the Profile offer really ups the ante, as a host of resident D.J.’s take their turn spin the sounds & warm you into the weekend in the best possible way. And this week the team draw on two veteran residents to do just that, Brent Nicholls making a welcome return to Profile tonight (Fri 24th), while tomorrow (Sat 25th) it’s the turn of the cheeky Craig Daniels to turn up the volume & the terrific tunes heat. But with much more on offer, why not check out http://profilesoho.com & make sure you book a date with Profile this weekend.
Splendid Soiree
Downstairs and Lo-Profile have another fun filled weekend and are still smarting from a gyrating “Gigolo” last night, this new(ish) Soho social splendour having found its feet among the competition, D.J.’ Nathan Six & Jamie Head very much flying the Lo-Profile flag not least as they are residents of both the bar upstairs & the club down. But it’s the weekend we look to and tonight’s session of “Society” which sports another two favourites of Profile that make the transition downstairs and look like packing in the party heads, Nick Evan’s uplifting & vocal beats sure to get “Society” going swimmingly, while the cute yet capable Zach Burns follows up, this young man having come of D.J.’ing age really quickly & proving himself more than equal amongst his peers. With “Society” very much being the place to be seen on the Soho scene, this should prove another successful night for the Lo-Profile team. Then on Saturday (25th ), its straight forward dynamic dancing, as D.J.’s Rob Sykes & Alessandro Londra spin the supercharged sounds, definitely making this Wardour St hangout a hot ticket, more details on the venue available at http://loprofile.com.
Now to some Short Shouts and first news that after much conjecture & delay, the team behind Freedom that bought Barcode on Archer St back in April, will be making considerable changes at the end of this month and turning the venue into a private members club. So, it seems an era in the Soho social scene is finally coming to an end, although we feel it a real shame that the departing Barcode team couldn’t see their way to throwing a farewell party, especially considering the huge amount of loyal customers that have supported it across the years. However, you can wave a fond farewell to club night Industri this coming Wednesday (29th June), more details on that coming up in our weekly round-up.
But while Barcode may be on the way out, Ku Bar is definitely still packing them in, a full weekend of party including their “D.J. Debut” night tonight (Fr1 24th), hosted by The Very Miss Dusty O, while on Sunday (25th), its Lady Lloyd’s turn to sparkle in the spotlight with her “Hit Factory” party. More details on happenings down at Lisle St can be found by going to http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Back into the centre of Soho and The Shadow Lounge find themselves a week or so away from celebrating ten years in the business and have extensive refit plans ahead of the celebrations, meaning their doors will be closed for a couple of days next week. However, its business as usual this weekend, with favourites “Therapy tonight (Fri 24th) & “Inferno” tomorrow, with more info on this sophisticated spot out at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Pride Warm Up
Right onward to Vauxhall and our Best Bite goes to the Orange Group again this week, not least as they are once again treating us to another freebie, this time a Saturday night shindig at Fire, very much as a warm up for their massive Gay Pride schedule of events next weekend. So this Saturday (25th June), the team throw a special Pride warm up party in association with Ku Bar, all in aid of raising funds to help keep London’s Gay Pride free. And masterminding the music at this pre-pride party will be the might of Mikey D, Paul Heron & Leandro Kloppel turning up the heat in Fire’s main room, while the lounge will be a Ku Bar affair with the delightful DouGuim & guests spinning the sounds. Now, as we said, entry is free, but you need to be in between 11 p.m. & 1 a.m. to benefit from this outstanding offer, but it is a night in benefit of Pride, so suggested donations of £1 will be welcomed and given the fact that special drinks offers including £1 shots & £2 beers will be running throughout the night, this is a event that certainly won’t burn a hole in your pockets. However, Saturday night aside, it’s another busy weekend for all things Orange, with club nights Onyx, A:M, Later, Booster &, of course, Orange rolling out their weekly sessions, while Beyond will surely prove popular again this week, after a spectacular showing last when it joined forces with Pagano’s Deviate club & record label brand. For full details of The Orange Group events & details of guest list offers, go to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties and keep your eyes peeled for our extra special Orange Group focussed Pride preview, covering all the info you need on events stretching from Friday through Monday next weekend.
Now to some Vauxhall Short Shouts and The Eagle have another corker of a weekend, “Tonker” tonight welcoming special guest D.J. Joe Publik to the decks as Tim Jones & his team play homage to all things army with their “Uniform Night”, while they will be making the most of the warming weather with a free bbq in the giant garden space. Then tomorrow (Sat 25th), Eagle takes on a “Carpet Burn” feel with promoter Martyn Fitzgerald headlining a guest list of D.J.’s & performers, while “Horse Meat Disco” is sure to pack them in again this Sunday (26th). More info on The Eagle can be found at http://eaglelondon.com.
Now, the venerable institution that is The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (The RVT) roll out three classics this weekend, the magnificent “Marvellous” back for more tonight (Fri 24th), with D.J. duo Jonny Slut & Dawn Right Nasty serving up a mix of punk, soul, disco & rock rhythms & with Joan Dairy Queen hosting, while on Saturday (25th) Amy Lame is back with the iconic “Duckie”, no weekend being complete without a full-on onslaught of The Dame Edna Experience at “S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out” on Sunday (26th). Further details of these & happenings throughout the week can be found at http://thervt.org.uk.
Alfresco Antics
So to our alternatives and as we hinted at the top of this Recommends report, the attention goes all alfresco for the next few weeks, this coming weekend no exception as The Clapham Street Party takes centre stage tomorrow (Sat 25th)and with the forecast looking quite healthy for, at least, a dry & sunny day if not quite the smeltering Sunday we are expecting, SW4 should see swarms of street party heads make their way down to Edgerley Road, where, if last year is anything to go by, they will be faced with a street bursting at the seams, everyone clamouring to get close to the stage to see a succession of cabaret artists, drag queens & singers perform from the 3 p.m. start through until a dusky 9 p.m. end. And with a line-up that includes Sandra, Rose Garden, Lola Lasagne, Lizzie Drip, Maisie Trollette & Dave Lynn, it will definitely be one for drag queen fans, but with the action actually starting a little earlier than that, as host venue Kazbar opens its doors a 1 p.m., with a list of D.J.’s as long as our arm playing plenty of pop & disco to delight, while the cocktails, Pimms & other refreshments will be flowing from both the bars inside & out. However, this community event, which has slowly grown in stature & is now in its 7th year is also very much about giving, as it supports charity causes The Albert Kennedy & The Eddie Surman Trusts, two HIV causes very close to our hearts, meaning we cannot re-enforce the minimum donation of £1, hoping you will dig even deeper into your pockets, especially given all the exceptional entertainment coming your way for free. With much more to say still, we will be bringing you an Extra Bites post a little later, while for more information you can always visit http://kazbarclapham.com.
Now to some Short Shouts and firstly we have to report that due to issues with inbound guest stars from The States, Circus, which was due to take place tonight (Fri 24th)has had to be postponed. While the team could have found stand-in replacements for Kazaky, who were to headline this hedonistic happening, both Jodie Harsh & Kris Di Angelis agreed that they would prefer to re-schedule in order to get Kazaky across, especially given this will be an extra special party at the super swish Cafe De Paris. So, keep your eyes peeled right here for news on the re-schedule, which as soon as we hear, you will too.
Next up and an alternative spot that sports two new nights in one weekend, The Dalston Superstore never failing to push the envelope of extravertism, especially with “Breed” tonight (Fr 24th) with promoter Rex The Dog introducing two new stars to the scene, Ruff US & Bambi sure to create a Superstore stir, while on Saturday (25th), “Sexy Dogs” welcome the likes of D.J.’s Hunee, Rik Moran & Ian Robinson, serving up synth pop & nu disco, the weekend rounding off with another “Tutti Frutti” Squeaky session. For more details on these Dalston devotions, go take a look at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Our final Short Shout goes to East Bloc who have a real hum dinger of a happening this Saturday (25th June), as the superb S.O.S. returns to its regular monthly slot and this month runs a “Divas To The Dancefloor Party” with a D.J. line up that picks the cream of the alternative scene, Jim Warboy & Andy Blake masterminding the main room music but joined by special guest Tasty Tim, while Jack France makes his rubberised clad debut in room two. With the fabulous “Disco Fag Bar” also back tonight (Fr1 24th), East Bloc is the Shoreditch showstopper for sure and well worth a visit, as is their website http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Right that’s just about it for us for another weekend and one that will see us resting our still fragile & repairing bones, so as to make sure we are fighting fit for London’s massive Gay Pride, although we get the sneaking suspicion that Beyond may be beckoning, as long as we take it nice & easy. But we will be using our rest periods to post plenty of reports, including that Extra Bites shout for The Clapham Street Party & a full-on Orange Group inspired Pride preview, so watch out for those. As for your weekend’s, with the sun looking to shine & with plenty of prolific parties to plunder, we hope you make the most of this last one in June, so whatever you do & wherever it finds you, we hope you have a terrific time, leaving us to simply say, “Go There Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Area, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Circus, Craig Daniels, Disco Fag Bar, DouGuim, East Bloc, Fire, Horse Meat Disco, Jim Warboy, Joe Publik, Ku Bar, Later, Leandro Kloppel, Lo-Profile, Mikey D, Nick Evans, Onyx, Orange, Paul Heron, Profile, Rob Sykes, Tasty Tim, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagle, The Orange Group, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge, Tonker, Zach Burns | No Comments »
Well, what a week we have had, probably one of the most traumatic in our lifetime as a nasty road accident lead onto compilations & hospitalisation, all meaning our usual posts were pretty much laid to waste, yet as we resurface and regain our bearings, it looks like our coming weekend will be one dominated by rest & relaxation. However, with one particular event craving for our attention it seems that we will be getting ribbed for resting from at least one quarter, although as we cast our eyes across the whole offerings, it looks like this weekend should prove a busy & popular one for party goers & the like, whether in Soho, Vauxhall and elsewhere, our choice picks, as usual covering all three.
Soho Style Spot
So, to Soho first and top of the tree of our choices once again goes to Profile & Lo-Profile, the flagship bar/club combo of the Gaydar organisation that have an offer in our favourite gay village in the capital, really hard to beat, Profile proving the ideal place to kick off your weekend of dancing dervishness as both Friday’s & Saturday’s see a range of scene favourite D.J.’s take their turn sorting the sounds and getting you in the mood for the more audacious action below. And this week the team have two favourites filling the Profile partying boots, tomorrow night (Fri 17th) seeing the bold & beautiful Nathan Six take to the decks and this is sure to be a set to savour, as Nathan seems to come into his absolute own in Profile’s surroundings, selecting sounds that capture the mood perfectly, a blend of disco, dance & euro style beats that will have the place rocking for sure. Then on Saturday, man about town & downright delectable D.J. Jamie Head masterminds the music, his ability to turn his hand to the lighter side of dance music and serve up some real disco gems, part of the reason he work so well in this sophisticated Soho spot. And with Profile keeping at the top of the foodie game too with a new style menu to compliment the American diner choices, along with a tasty new bar menu, you couldn’t wish for a better place to eat, drink & be merry, more details on offerings available at http://profilesoho.com.
Soiree Sophistication
Then we move downstairs and to Lo-Profile who is really going great guns with their now established Friday nighter “Society”, which rolls up for another session tonight (Fri 17th) with two of its original stars taking to the decks, Brent Nicholls returning to London from a week of r&r and ready to pump the place with his trademark un-funk and a host on new tunes we suspect too. Then it’s down to Tony English to keep the party vibe going through until the 4 a.m. finish and, given his recent “Society” sets, it could be a corker and one well worth sticking around for. Then on Saturday, Lo-Profile has a very Germanic feel to it, as the duo of Oliver M & D’Johnny take to the decks, Oliver of course very much German born & bred, while D’Johnny is a resident of the German capital, although both will be right here in London, setting Lo-Profile alight with some scorching sounds, Oliver taking the early slot and Johnny rounding off another superb Saturday in style. Lo-Profile opens its doors at 10 p.m. each night, with reduced entry until midnight and then £8 thereafter, plus don’t forget they host the uber trendy “Gigolo” each Thursday, making Lo-Profile one of this hippest places to be seen on the scene, further info out at http://loprofile.com.
Now to some short shouts and Ku-Bar on Lisle heads the list with their new D.J. guest night, which launched last week & continues tonight (Fri 17th) with The Very Miss Dusty O (yes her of “Four Rooms” fame!) masterminding proceedings, so well worth a look in, especially as the pedigree of the party, one that found the delightful DouGuim, speaks for itself. Add to that their usual shenanigans across the weekend that includes “Fabulous” on Saturday & “Hit Factory” on Sunday, as well as weekday draws “Citric & “Shinky Shonky” on Monday & Wednesday respectively, & Ku-Bar certainly makes its mark on the Soho scene, if right on the eastern edge of it, more details on Gary Henshaw’s hangout available at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Now to new bar Circa, that reported a good turnout last night (Thurs 16th) as they continued their Room Service pre-party hosting, the weekend looking on the up & up for this stylish spot up of Frith Street as they gear up for Gay Pride in a couple of weeks that will see them in pole position to lap up the overflow from the dance stage in nearby Soho Sq. Now, if you haven’t popped your head into Circa yet then it’s high time you did, further details of offers etc available at http://circa-bar.co.uk.
Our final Soho Short Shout goes to the venerable institution on Old Compton Street, that is Compton’s, manager Neil very much back in the groove and re-introducing some old favourites that always used to pack in the punters, the infamous “Beach Ball” parties being one of them. And this Saturday it will be all about shorts & sangria and Comptons gets the sand between its toes, D.J’s Paul Heron & Dan Kelly drumming up the dance & house hits, while with Prowler sponsoring the night, you can expect the bar boys to be wearing something quite tight to keep their tackle in check.
Summer Solstice Stunner
Right, onto Vauxhall and our Best Bite couldn’t really go to anyone else at The Orange Group who have a stunning schedule again this weekend, a list of no less than seven outings well worth a look in, although it seems that once again the two parties that will rule the roost this weekend are Onyx & Beyond, the latter, due to its specialised nature getting our attention via a special Extra Bites report. So, it’s Onyx that gets our full attention here and rightfully so, as this week’s “Summer Solstice” event looks like being an absolute hum dinger, not least that the team have employed the services of international D.J. & globetrotter, Wayne G, fresh from a full on season of tours around the southern hemisphere & The States and landing back in London just in time for the longest day of our year (well it’s Monday actually, but close), Wayne heading up a supporting cast on jocks that include Onyx residents Jc Christopher, Lee Harris, Ariel, Lisa German, Tasty Tim & Jason Prince, but will also be welcoming D.J’ing & producer partner in crime, the terrifically talented & funky fantastic Stewart Who, who will not only be spinning some sounds. but will be performing the duo’s new track “Bitch” in an exclusive first for anywhere P.A. performance, along with the highly acclaimed “Back To The Future”. Add to all that one of the best value nights in town you can find, not least through the Onyx special drinks offer that includes shots priced at just £1 & entrance to the club again, just £1 before midnight (ad, flyer or G/list req’d), plus if you’re an Onyx member its free before midnight. So, how do I get on the guestlist we hear you ask, well simply go to http://gayguestlists.com/onyx and follow the easy instructions.
Audacious Afterhours
Another reason why you might want to pop into “Summer Solstice” tonight is to catch the announcement of Onyx’s new promoter Verity Mayes, who takes over from current top cheese Jonny Marsh, leaving him to devote his energies into promoting Beyond. Verity joined The Orange Group a few weeks ago, having been cherry picked by Jonny following his associations with her in Brighton for Wild Fruit, she bringing a wealth of talent & experience with her and looking like the fresh injection that Onyx needs, so make sure you get yourselves down to Area from 11 p.m. tonight (Fri 17th June) to give her a hearty welcome. As for that Orange Group supporting cast of parties, A:M definitely sets the scene on Saturday morning (18th June), while Later, Booster & Orange see you right from what looks like being yet another brilliant Beyond, deep into Monday morning, a cast of all-star resident D.J.’s across these prolific parties including Oliver M, Fat Tony, D’Johnny, Gonzalo Rivas, Paul Martin The Oli, Jamie Head, Paul Heron, The Sharp Boys, David Jimenez, Hifi Sean & more. Add to that week day hangouts Open, Deuce & Gravity and it seems that, in the hands of The Orange Group, you can party from dusk till dawn & back again virtually seven days a week, more information on all their offerings available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Right onto some Vauxhall Short Shouts and not a million miles away from The Orange Group is the manly & meaty Megawoof! that pops up on the partying schedule this weekend, tomorrow night (Sat 18th June) in fact, rolling out another exceptional event at host venue Fire. With regulars Tim Mcloone, Leonardo Glovibes, Daz Saund & Massimo Paramour being joined by special guest Rob Brailsford and the aptly named “Hardware” events are for the hunks rather than the chunks, the mach meet attracted the manly muscle & leather bound crowd, more details out at http://megawoof.com.
Now to an institution that equals its Soho comparison Comptons in the venerable stakes, but has a outstanding offering stretched right across the week, although it’s the weekend that gets our shout here, starting with nineties & noughties night “Push The Button” which takes place tonight (Fri 17th June) with an interestingly named D.J. Hits & Mrs on the decks, while tomorrow night, the incomparable “Duckie” reigns supreme again, this long running ever popular party hosted by the one & only Amy Lame. Then, no Sunday would ever be the same without a “S.LA.G.S./Chill-out” session, the irrepressible Dame Edna Experience on stage from 5 p.m. and not to be missed. So, to catch these & more happenings down on Kennington lane, check out http://thervt.org.uk.
Last Short Shout goes to fabulous fetish frolic Hard On!, which returns to new home Factory this Saturday (18th June) and devotes the night to the launch of its own new ultra strong aroma(no not that sort of aroma), we being told there will be plenty of free samples being given away so, in the words of its promoter, “…you can take it deeper…” (what would that be we think?!). Definitely taking it deeper after giving the bottle a sniff will be resident D.J.’s Brent Nicholls, Sharon O Love & Dmak, blasting out some brilliant beats, to draw you away from the considerable playroom area, one which will surely see many strip down from the mandatory dresscode, details of which, along with all the other info you need on this meaty meet, can be found by going to http://hardonclub.co.uk.
Birthday Boy Nic
Right to our alternatives and Best Bite simply has to go to Gutterslut who have a special party, a birthday one to be precise, this Saturday (18th June) at now established home East Bloc in Shoreditch. Having been running now for close on three years, Gutterslut very much pioneered the alternative & way our whacky scene in the East End, so it seems appropriate that it now finds itself right in the centre of all the action and the venue that is making all the waves right now. But come Saturday, it will be all about one man, as co-promoter Nicholas Fisher celebrates his birthday in style, Gutterslut responding accordingly as they welcome special guest D.J./Producer Ilona International (not to be confused with Dana) who will be celebrating the release of her first single in July, released on Larry Tee’s record label, she having evolved into spinning sounds & making music from shaking her bootie for the famed Jonny Woo experimental dance troupe, Tartazine Dream” and will be heading a line-up of D.J.’s in the “Rave” room that includes Per Q.X. & the birthday boy himself Nic. But the special guests continue, as over in the “DiscoSlut” room is the curly & cuddly Jeffrey Hinton, who you will probably now from the mighty Queer Nation, but a guy that has been a key player across the gay scene for well over two decades, other club highlights including Discotec, Fruit Machine & Bootylicious and is sure to steal to show with his soulful sounds, he being joined by Gutterslut’s own soulman Ralf. But it doesn’t stop there, oh no, as the efferverecent Miss Crystal MC will be doing just that (mastering ceremonies of course!), while the visuals will be provided by Prickimage and the Dalston Gay Mafia, this special birthday inspired Gutterslut kicking off from 11 p.m, & running through to an extra late 6 a.m., entry at just £5 before midnight or £10 thereafter (you know what to do) while the team are running a special concessions guestlist which you can get your name on by emailing the guys at gutterslutuk@yahoo.co.uk, this exceptional event taking place at East Bloc, further details of which you can find at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Right onto some alternative Short Shouts and first up is The Dalston Superstore, who feel like they have taken a bit of a back seat recently, although this weekend sees them pull out some showstoppers in the form of boy on girl special “Boydem”, tonight (Fri 17th June) the likes of D.J.’s Eman, Oliie Rant, Aymen & Ahmed on the decks, while tomorrow the very popular “Bodytalk” returns with special guest D.J. Joe Hart of London Party Body Hammer provding Detroit & Chicago influenced underground house downstairs, alongside resident Rokk, while up top it’s Kusi Kubi, Tristan Reed Eka Browndy & Scott Webster sorting the sounds. Then it could only be “Tutti Frutti” rounding off the weekend on Sunday (19th June), D.J. Squeaky & guests sending you into the new working week in the best possible way. Check out http://thedalstonsuperstore.com for more details.
Next up is a new night and one for the Shoreditch set, as the team behind S.O.S. bring you “Spit Roast” this Sunday (19th June), a gathering at table venue (modern take on lap dancing) Blush, which brings together some of the best alternative D.J.’s around. Spread over two floors, the like of Jim Warboy, Andy Blake, Liz Bisouk & Ilona International devour the decks with plenty of hiNRG & house classics, while upstairs Shoreditch son Kris Di Angelis is joined by Tom Davey serving up some of those alternative sounds we know them both so well for. Add to the mix a saucy stripper pole looked after by none other than Scottee & this knees up within the confines of East End institution The White Horse, looks like a winner from day one.
Our final Short Shout for this weekend goes to The Brixton Clubhouse in, yes you guessed it, Brixton, which has a weekend of activity including a Terrace party tomorrow night (Sat 18th June) with D.J. Slamma & guests on the decks, while on Sunday its “Sundance” (they may need to looking at the forecast), D.J.’s Paul Coals & Ben Jamin masterminding the music. But it’s the expanding seven days a week trading that we are shouting for here, as when this promised scorching summer weather does actually arrive, the alfresco eating & deck top dancing, not to mention a hot tub dipping, should certainly see this smart spot soar in popularity stakes, other upcoming attractions including outdoor cinema & food theme nights and this outdoor two tiered decking delight is well worth a visit, more info available at http://thebrixtonclubhouse.com.
Tan Top-up
Right, that’s pretty much it from us, although just time to give our friends at SeenQueen & Solarstation a mention, SQ having their own hot happenings around town, not just for this weekend but stretching deep into July, a wealth of other features, reports & links available at http://seenqueen.com/web, while with the weather looking pretty dreary and the possibility of a natural tan remote, why not go for the next best thing by visiting Hassan & his team at Solarstation and taking ten minutes or so to top up that tan, so you can show off your bronze bits on the dancefloor this weekend, more information on rates, packages & the like, available at http://solarstation.co.uk.
Now that really is it and whist we did have a Saturday & Sunday packed with partying, our untimely accident last week means we will be laying very low this weekend, save for a possible cameo appearance at Beyond. So if you see us there do please come & say hi, but whether you do & wherever it finds you have a wonderful weekend and remember that you make sure you “Go There! Be There!” (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Circa, Comptons, D'Johnny, Duckie, East Bloc, Gutterslut, Hard On!, Jamie Head, Later, Lo-Profile, Nathan Six, Nic Fisher, Oliver M, Onyx, Orange, Paul Heron, Per QX, Profile, S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out, Society, The Brixton Clubhouse, The Dalston Superstore, The Orange Group, The RVT, Tony English | No Comments »
Bye Bye "Preview The Reviews"
If there is one place where we find the most inspiration & then come with our ideas, it is the clubbing dancefloor, this morning being no exception, as we pondered over the continuance of our “Preview The Review” (PTR) reports. Now, while they have proven really popular and have also given us a vehicle where we can report on our clubbing cavorting much more swiftly than we did with our full reviews, the last two months have seen these PTR’s take the place of our full length versions, which have somewhat fallen by the wayside. Mind you, this is no surprise, as life in Disco Matt land has become incredibly busy in the last few months, the demands on our time stretching substantially, meaning that certain parts of our activity have suffered under the strain, our full length reviews one such area.
Hello "Bite Size Reviews"
So with an overdue list stretching back to Barcelona in April, we thought it was high time to take some action by re-adjusting the balance of our review reporting, thus changing the angle of our PTR style reports to make them more like our full length versions but in mini form and what we will now term as “Bite Size Reviews”. Now, if you have been keeping in touch with our PTR’s, which were devised in February, the bite size phrase will be a familiar one to you and one which we feel ties in well with our nibble size reviews, delivered via Twitter tweets, another invention (thanks to a dear D.J. friend) which has really taken off since we launched it in Beyond on 2nd May. Plus with that full reflection backlog growing by the day, we thought it was high time we gave the bars, clubs & events we cover a little more justice in our fresh felt reflections, rather than having them wait for the full review, a wait which has become far too long for some.
Welcome "Full Size Reviews"
That said, we will be continuing with our traditional length reflections, which we will now term as “Full Size Reviews”, proper service on these being restored as soon as possible, although, as demand dictates, we may need to pick & choose which bars, clubs & events get this full size review coverage, thus the need to up the ante with re-styling our PTR’s. In the meantime, we are committed to delivering the following overdue ones to you, although they will most likely be simple extensions of our existing PTR’s to include those all important intro & outro paragraphs, not least to speed through the delivery of this now considerable backlog.
Delice Dream Festival – “Captivating Clubbing In Calella – 16th to 20th April (feature length)
As One – “Sound Spoils The Show” – 23rd April
Beyond – “All About Steve” – 24th April
Orange Ascension – “Sweet Dreams Of Citric Bliss” – 25th April
Later – “Afternoon Appreciation Times Two” – 25th April & 2nd May (feature length)
Booster – “Braving The Bash” – 25th April
Beyond vs La Demence – “Blended Brilliance” – 1st May
Downtown – “East End Boys Meet West End Girls”– 1st May
WE Broadway – “Wow Factor Wandered” – 1st May
Beyond – “Waiting For You” – 8th May
Meat – “Monumental Mash-up” – 14th May
Gigolo – “Brilliant Burns Beats” – 19th May
Muccassassina – “Rapture In Rome” – 27th May
WE Candy – “Where Were We” – 28th May
Beyond Supersize – “Huge Holiday Highlight” – 29th May
Salvation The Future – “Stunning Stage Sparkles” – 29th May
As One – “Banking Branded Brilliance” – 30th May
Room Service – “Delightful Delectations At Diu – 2nd June
Plus we have two special reviews to still ring you, firstly our full size review of Roger Waters in concert at The O2 Arena from 15th May, plus a feature length full size review of our three day sortie around Soho during the first week of May, this one to be titled “Soho Society Social Soiree Showdown”.
Continuing "Nibble Size Reviews"
So, we definitely have our review work cut out, this being no better a time to address the backlog, plus re-adjust our reflections and make the flow much more smoother, that flow henceforth being from nibble size, to bite size, to full size, all meaning that our review coverage will be as complete & conformist as can be. And having nibble size review tweeted our way through Beyond this morning, where the inspiration for this change came from, what better way to kick off than with our new style bite size review of Beyond’s “Summer Season Launch” which, like all our reviews from now on, can/will be found in our “Review” section ONLY (makes sense we think). Plus, as if we need to remind you, don’t forget you can follow our nibble size review tweets by going to http://twitter.com/discomatt and tuning in live or even becoming a full on follower & checking at your leisure, leaving us to simply say, make sure to “Go There! Be There! tweet tweet!!! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: As One, Beyond, Booster, Delice, Delice Dream, Downtown, Gigolo, Industri, Later, Lo-Profile, Meat, Muccassassina, Orange, Room Service, Salvation, Society, WE Party, WE Party London | No Comments »
The bunch of bank holidays may have consumed the pockets of many, but as we move into June, the capitals clubbing scene shows no sign of taking a breather, this weekend already shaping up to be superb, with a new club launch, a brace of bargain bashes & a summer starter amongst many other offerings. So, naturally and having returned to our usual format, we have waded through the choices to decide on our Best Bites across Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere, along with stacks of short shouts to make your decision on where to be & been seen all the easier.
So, to Soho first and it has to be Profile & Lo-Profile that grabs our Best Bite for this start of summer weekend, Profile proving the perfect retreat from the hectic happenings on Old Compton Street, Soho Square & surrounding areas, not least as the team draw on some of the best D.J. talent in town to spin the sounds each Friday & Saturday night from 8 p.m., this week being no exception, as tonight (Fri 3rd June) it’s the cute yet capable Zach Burns on the decks, a man very much in the zone right now, so
Soho's Sophisticated Spot
a set to savour for sure. Then tomorrow night, its playful tearaway Craig Daniels selecting the sounds, Saturday’s always spectacular in his hands. As for the rest of the Profile offer, having recently upgraded their menu, with lots of more substantial mains to compliment the “diner” style options, there isn’t a better place to get a bite, while their happy hour from 4 till 7 p.m. each day is a draw. Check out http://profilesoho.com for more info.
Now to Lo-Profile downstairs, which after the success of last Friday’s “Society” with Nathan 6 & Tony English tearing the place up with truck loads of tremendous tunes, this superb social soiree returns again tonight, Nathan back for a second bite at the sweet sounding cherry that he gobbled up with gusto seven days ago, while the terrifically talented Hugh Stevenson takes over at 1 a.m. to send you soaring into Saturday with stacks of superb sounds. Then, talking of Saturday, tomorrow (Sat 4th June) to be exact, Lo-Profile takes on a Beyond-esque feel as they welcome two of this amazing afterhours’ resident jocks, Gonzalo Rivas kicking off the night from 10 p.m. with bag loads of brilliant beats, while the jam in this Soho sound spectacle sandwich, Jamie Head, makes the magical music mix magnificently from 1 a.m., the Lo-Profile team celebrating Beyond going live on Gaydar Radio too, Gaydar being the driving force behind this Wardour St wonder. Check out http://lo-profile.com for more details on this sophisticated Soho spot.
Now to some short shouts & first mention goes to Ku-Bar on Lisle St, who have a full-on week as usual, which includes “O Zone” tonight (Fri 3rd)with The Very Miss Dusty O of course, while Sunday is a “Hit Factory” night with lady Lloyd, Monday sees the delectable DouGuim return for all things “Citrus”, while “Shinky Shonky” sakes tour Wednesdays. Go to http://ku-bar.co.uk for more details.
To Rupert St (the bar that is), who look like raking them in this weekend, our favourite foxy lady, D.J. Minx in the mix on the decks tonight, while tomorrow its, the superb Severino selecting the sounds, while on Sunday our Bello Italiano Alessandro Londra glides you into the new working week, more info available at http://rupertstreet.com.
Looking further into next week & both Gigolo & Room Service are back for more next week, both having reported healthy turnouts this (we were there), David & L.a. Hart’s newbie beginning to find its feet fabulously, the look of Lo-Profile last night simply superb, plus with Zach Burns headlining the event on Thurs (9th June), it should be a corker. Catch more details at http://gigolodisco,com
Room Service across the other side of Soho at Diu continues to pull in the party heads, a 25 minute wait in the queue last night, evident of that & it was pumping in there too. Jodie Harsh & her crew definitely know how to press those brilliant buttons & this coming Thursday looks no different with Horse meat Disco’s Jim Stanton starting while international playboy D.J. Paul heron follows, both turning up the tune-tastic volume. For more info on this most hip of happenings, go to http://clubroomservice.com.
Free Fire Fabulousness
Right onwards to Vauxhall and after a momentous last few days that have seen severed ties healed & fixed back together, we are delighted to return the Orange Group to its rightful Best Bites position in this club mecca of gay London. And it looks like a pretty busy one for them this weekend, tonight (Fr 3rd June), seeing Onyx in “Recovery Party” mode, this having become a bit of a post bank holiday institution, with lots of free things being thrown around, like free entry to Fire’s party tomorrow & free entry to Beyond on Sunday (more in that in a Focus post coming up), while its free to get in before midnight as long as you’re on the guest list (go to http://gayguestlists.com/onyx) D.J’s Lee Harris, Jc Christopher, Ariel, Tasty Tim, Lisa German & more masterminding the magical music. Plus with a special £5 joint ticket entry to both Onyx & A:M afterhours after, which sees Guy Williams headlining a strong line-up, available at http://clubtickets.com/gb/2011-06/03/onyx you can’t say fairer than all that. Then, to that party at Fire tomorrow (Sat 4th June), when the team open the doors free from 11 p.m. till 1 a.m., very much as a thank you for the amazing bank holiday weekend just gone, with the likes of Mikey D, Jamie Head, D’Johnny & Leandro Kloppel on D.J. duty, while the drinks are dropping (yes dropping!) in price with shots of Sambuca & Tequila at just £1 and beers plus spirit & mixers at a mere £2.90 (now that’s what we call a thank you!), the back to basics feel of this party looking like a winner from where we are standing. Of course, other stable mates Later, Booster & Orange complete the weekend wonderment with more details on all these parties available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
To some short shouts & first a new club launch at Factory, Gaydar radio’s Phil Marriot plunging into the club promotions game with his venture “Club I”, which aims to be an inspirational, independent & iconic invent, with indie/alternative music come electro disco spread across to rooms, a live Pa & plenty more. Now, we will be bringing you a full focus on Phil’s new night very soon, but with the likes of “Hard On!, “Bodyshakers” & “Desire” all moving to this Vauxhall venue, Factory is very much up & coming, more details available at http://clubfactory.co.uk.
Venerable institution The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT) is next & has another full-on weekend into week, with “Speedwagon” tonight, “Duckie” tomorrow night, “S.LA.G.S./Chill-out on Sunday, “Bingo Pub Night” on Monday, & new night “Burger Queen” on Wednesday, the latter hosted by Scottee who say’s of the night, “…it’s time for us fatties to fight back& exercise our right to be big, bold & beautiful…” so you get the drift. With burger & chips the order onf the day (or is that night) & four sizable shows, this looks like joining the iconic ranks of The RVT’s other nights , more info out at http://thervt.org.uk.
Then the Vauxhall scene is complimented by The Eagle, who also have their weekly say, “Tonker” tonight welcoming special guest jock Chris Brogan, while their “Saturday’s” cruise & booze night gives way to “Carpet Burn” this week, while it’s the iconic “Horse Meat Disco” on Sunday and Ashley Ryder’s “Strip Academy” on Tuesday. Plus with probably THE best beer garden in town, The Eagle is a great place to soak up the start to the summer sun, more info out at http://theeaglelondon.com.
East Bloc Excellence
So to some alternatives, Shoreditch certainly spearheading what looks like being a scorching summer in the capital, not least as “Summer Rites” returns to the scene, this year honing in on Shoreditch Park as the place (watch this space for a full preview), while it is promoter Wayne Shires’ hip & happening hangout East Bloc that grabs our Best Bite slot this week, the plu popular “Disco Fag Bar” kicking off their weekend tonight (Fri 3rd June) with residents Laurent C, James Phillips & yes, Wayne Shires on the decks, doors opening at 10.30 p.m. & the club running till super Saturday late. Then, moving to Saturday and the brilliant “Men Who Fell To Earth” returns, welcoming special guest D.J’s Is Tropical to the main room madness, they in fact dominating proceedings with their so called “…bass heavy, beat driven, pop influenced & lo-fi dance music…” this unique UK appearance probably your only chance to see this sound of the summer D.J. duo in action, while the way out wording of room two “Forgive me GAYLORD For I Have Synth” pretty much sums up what will be going down here. But if you are still not sure what musical magic to expect, then it’s worth taking a peek listen at http://soundcloud.com/themenwhofell2earth, while Is Tropical’s website also tells all at http://istropical.com. Plus, with dates to look forward to including the magnificent “Meat” net Saturday (11th June), go check out more info on East Bloc at http://eastbloc.co.uk where you will find directions to this City Road smash.
To our final Short Shouts for this week and first one goes to The Dalston Superstore, who have a full-on threesome, starting with “Ecstasy, Passion & Pain” tonight (Fri 3rd), while tomorrow it’s “HomoElectrc”, with “Tutti Fruitti” completing the picture on Sunday. Add to that a fabulous food offer & other entertainment during the week & this Dalston High St hangout (it’s in the name) is well worth a visit, as is their website for further details on what’s going down, a click away at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Heading across to south London, if your bag is tech house, then The Brixton Clubhouse is THE place to be on Sunday (5th June) from 2 p.m. onwards, as “Get Diverted” kicks off a much anticipated monthly residency at this swanky refurbished two tier terrace triumph. And given their launch party a few weeks ago when “Get Diverted” attracted close on 200 party goers, the team are expecting great things from this upcoming event, no less than seven D.J’s & an extra special guest sorting the sounds through till the 1 a.m. (Monday morning) finish. More info on this & other events at this smart spot up above Brixton can be found by going to http://thebrixtonclubhouse.com.
Solar Soaked Sun
With our choice picks over, if you are still undecided what to do with your weekend (how can you be?!), then you can always take the advice of London’s clubbing bible, SeenQueen, who have their own hot tips on where to be & be seen on the scene, listings and much more available at http://seenqueen.com, while if you don’t get chance to lay in the sun on either Saturday or Sunday, then you can always take the easy option by diving on a Solarstation sun bed, more info out at http://solarstation.co.uk.
Right that’s it from us, apart from wishing you all a wonderful weekend, our plans pretty much on hold while we wait by the phone for news from far away, if the going is good, we may make it to “Tonker” & Club I” in Vauxhall tonight, have no plans tomorrow, but, if we are not 35,000 ft up in the air flying home, Sunday morning will see us go stratospheric at the Beyond “Summer Season Opener” with Steve Pitron & co, so if we make it out & you see us, then please come & say hi, but whatever you do & wherever it finds you, make sure you “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: Ariel, Beyond, Booster, Carpet Burn, David Hart, East Bloc, Gigolo, Gonzalo Rivas, Horse Meat Disco, Hug Steveson, Jamie Head, Jc Christopher, Jodie Harsh, Ku Bar, Later, Laurent C, Lee Harris, Lis German, Lo-Profile, Nathan Six, Onyx A:M, Orange, Profile, Room Service, Ruper St, S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out, SeenQueen, Solarstation, Steve Pitron, Tasty Tim, The Brixton Clubhouse, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagle, The Orange Group, The RVT, Tonker, Wayne Shires, Zach Burns | No Comments »
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20 Oct 2011 | 1 Comment
Recommends – “Autumn Appetisers” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd October – Recommends Newsletter
Looking back on October alone it seems that even Alton Towers has nothing on the rollercoaster ride we have found ourselves on, last weekend a perfect example of huge Friday highs followed by Saturday lows, an amazing “Play Time” at Lo-Profile followed by missing in action absences from The Week ...
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8 Sep 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Former Format Back With A Bang” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 9th to Sunday 11th September
Having toiled over which direction we would be taking our regular weekly “Recommends” newsletter, in conjunction with our summer siesta, we gave this post a bit of a break while we rejuvenated our batteries & cleared the clog in that directional dilemma. So, finding our feet back under the proverbial ...
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27 Jul 2011 | 1 Comment
Recommends – “New Times Two” – Blessed & Le Boy – Sunday 31st July & Friday 5th August – Weekend Focus Special
We never cease to be amazed by the wealth of new ideas, new projects & moreover new club nights that continually spring up across the capitals clubbing circuit, some ideas really capturing the imagination, others sinking without trace within weeks of launching. While Soho has clearly been getting much of ...
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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 ...
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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 ...
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8 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Festival Fun Praying For Sun” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 8th to Sunday 10th July
Having taken a break last weekend from our Best Bites & Short Shouts recommendations as we honed in on what proved to be the real highlight of London Pride 2011, The Fire Dance Stage, also wanting to concentrate on our post rather than pre-reporting, putting our much missed full length ...
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24 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Advent Of Alfresco Antics” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 24th to Sunday 26th June
Finding ourselves on the cusp of the final weekend of the month, whilst the weather is not quite flaming as one would expect in June, it seems that the scattering of showers & unseasonal winds will be behind us as we mark the advent of alfresco antics across the capitals ...
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17 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Getting Ribbed For Resting” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Fri 17th to Sun 19th June
Well, what a week we have had, probably one of the most traumatic in our lifetime as a nasty road accident lead onto compilations & hospitalisation, all meaning our usual posts were pretty much laid to waste, yet as we resurface and regain our bearings, it looks like our coming ...
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5 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Reports – “Reflection Re-Adjustment” – Reviews Overhaul – Sunday 6th June
If there is one place where we find the most inspiration & then come with our ideas, it is the clubbing dancefloor, this morning being no exception, as we pondered over the continuance of our “Preview The Review” (PTR) reports. Now, while they have proven really popular and have also ...
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3 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “No Bed If You’re A Party Head” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th June
The bunch of bank holidays may have consumed the pockets of many, but as we move into June, the capitals clubbing scene shows no sign of taking a breather, this weekend already shaping up to be superb, with a new club launch, a brace of bargain bashes & a summer ...
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 all the hottest &... posted on October 6, 2010 - D.J.’s: Here you will find specific focuses & biography's for D... posted on November 24, 2010
- Previews: Here we preview rather than review events, which either... posted on October 6, 2010
- Music: Here we focus on, review and recommend the latest music... posted on October 6, 2010
- Recommends: Here you will find recommendations for events during th... 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
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