Posts Tagged ‘Guy Williams’
March 21, 2013 | 
Author With much promise posed ahead of its “A New Beginning” event and with plenty of talk about Covert both championing change across the capitals clubbing circuit, was Saturday’s party the proof of the pudding in the eating, what was our verdict on this gigantic gathering and how much more did we learn about this clubbing change concept.
There can be little doubt that the clubbing scene in the capital, certainly as far as big style clubs are concerned, has very much been in the doldrums recently, the weekly, monthly & occasional event calendar being dominated by just one group & the usual set of brands. And will some view this as a good thing, the problem we have with it, particularly of late, as that feeling of same old same old, the same D.J.’s the same venues, the same faces, a regurgitated repetition that has, quite frankly become boring. Indeed the current sorry state of affairs has been a couple of years in the making, many competitor brands either pushed to the sidelines or pushed out of business entirely and with little in the way of replacements from the protagonists of this sordid situation, save for a Friday night clubbing concept that is wrong on so many fronts, we are left unenthused & unexcited about a pastime & activity that used to fill our weekends, wall to wall. Yet that said, while Vauxhall is clearly in the monotonous, same old, same old doldrums, there is plenty more happening, if but on a much smaller scale, a swing out to Shoreditch finding a hip & happening melting pot of parties, East Bloc the most dynamic deliverer, brands such as DISH, SOS, & Gutterslut drawing on clubbers from far & wide, proving that there is life beyond Albert Embankment & South Lambeth Walk.
However, in the eyes of clubbers, Vauxhall is still seen as their mecca, even if it is not quite the dynamic draw it was a few years ago, although with the likes of Colloseum & Hidden hardly used, it pretty much leaves just three full on club spaces, naturally the two Orange Nation ones, Fire & Area and Crash (now known as Union). But wait a minute, what about Covert we hear you say, a venue that used to trade under the name of Factory but was brought by a tight knot group of investors who, when re-constructing the site last April brought Orange Nation into the picture, the initial idea being to let them both manage the place & increase the clubbing offer & variety. Yet while the plans were all well & good in theory, with just one genuine addition in the form of Deelooded, in the short space of 10 months, Orange Nation let what was supposed to be a sophisticated & stylish club venue run down into rack & ruin, the planned works to finish the venue never materialising and, quite shockingly, the group reneging in financial & other promises, leaving the investors with little choice but to take Covert back under their control. But with much more happening in the background, it seems that these investors now have the bit between their teeth, with plans to the driving force behind the re-invigoration of the clubbing scene, both & Vauxhall & London as a whole, their first event to hail this marvellous movement, their “A New Beginning” event.
So with this exciting event and the prospect of something fresh, new & enticing on offer, despite health issues, we simply couldn’t miss this Covert cavort, not least that with a D.J. line-up extending deep into double figures, club promoters, scene figureheads & clubbing friends aplenty, it was one of those mustn’t miss meets, although with our planned arrival for the VIP reception thwarted by a deep disco dose, it was around 11.30 when we arrived, to be greeted on the door by a warming welcoming committee that included heavenly hostess Chrissy Darling, promoter Alex Erfan & Covert’s manager, the terrific Tom Fuller, he having wisely jumped from what we predict as a sinking Orange nation ship. However, on missing the reception, we had also missed Pier Morrocco’s set, although caught a moment with him before he sped off to XXL, we then quickly diving into the club to get out of the cold, a further warm greeting by Steven Sharp sealing what was a perfect start to this “A New Beginning” shindig. And with Steven giving us a guided tour, the upgrading & the finishing to the venue was clear to see, the shabbiness that Orange Nation had allowed to creep in, all but eradicated, noticeable differences including fabulous floor coverings in both the main room & the second space, new laser lighting, new ceiling coverings, a totally transformed upstairs area with sumptuous seating, but moreover the subtle touches to trimmings, bar fronts & the like making the place look finished & fantastic.
However, the most impressive transformation was in the second space, the D.J. booth having been moved downstairs, elevating the feel & the atmosphere amazingly and making it a dance room in its own right and it was here where we bumped into the first of a flock of familiar D.J. friends, Ben Jamin preparing for what turned out to be one of a whole host of superb sets in this space, this very much a bit of a home-coming for Ben, as it was he that was part of the Crash team towards the latter years and this Covert second space, for us, echoing the former quite noticeably. But the D.J. faces from the Crash days & Vauxhall both past & present extended to many more, Guy Williams, Brent Nicholls & Alan X three of a whole host of others, not just this his second space, but back in the main room too, a real brilliant blast from the past, Terry Bryan, pumping up the pace of the party perfectly. Indeed, with the initial slow trickle of arrivals ballooning before our eyes, given our delicate state of health, we retreated towards the safety of the bar area where we bumped into pals Peter & Fabio, our evening just getting better by the minute, the list of friendly & familiar faces lengthening with every passing moment, Dave Cross, Tom Marchant, Louise Port, Nicholas Montenegro, Paul Coals, Tony Bruno and, naturally, Tom Fuller, just a measure of exactly how refreshingly friendly this glorious gathering was turning out to be and certainly what our recent Vauxhall clubbing experiences had been missing.
But the night was still young and with Jamie Hammond in charge of the main room tunes now, we were looking forward to prolific performances from Lovechild’s own Tony English, he failing to disappoint with a sterling set, while with Paulo Moreno, Alan K, Fat Tony, The Oli & The Sharp Boys still to come, this Covert “A New Beginning Event” was certainly living up to its billing, the vast array of D.J. talent, some inextricably linked to that other Vauxhall based clubbing group, proof that Alan’s promise to give D.J.’s the opportunity to play when & where they want, was bearing fruit right before our eyes. So, sinking into the rest of our slightly shortened stay, we traded main room for second space, outside for in, spending some time catching up with Alex Erfan and talking about plans moving forward, both for Covert and for their wider scene plans, some so exciting that we are itching to share, although have been sworn to secrecy. We also took advantage of the upstairs space, joining Peter in resting & escaping what was now a packed & pulsating main room, Paulo Moreno delivering delectable doses of dance delight, while we traded health issue notes with peter who, it seemed, was also going through a tremendously tough time. That said, it was great to be out clubbing again, this our first foray in March and a better choice & place to mark what, given our personal circumstances, was quite a milestone, we couldn’t have made, although with our energy levels sapping & the comfort of home calling, we graced our exit not long after 4 a.m., leaving behind a club that was very much alive, kicking & looking great in every way, not even an ounce of enticement for us to visit our old Sunday morning stomping ground, a small measure of just how times are changing.
So you can pretty much guess what our verdict on “A New Beginning” will be, this very much the huge success that the team had hoped for, a slow(ish) start soon transforming into a truly tremendous turn, a party full of positives in every respect, from the atmosphere & ambiance to the finished feel of the venue, from the style & sophistication oozing from this smart multi faceted space to the amazing additions to equipment, fixtures & fittings and from the depth of D.J. talent, all coming together under one roof in support of this marvellous new clubbing movement, to the party people themselves, all who exuded an air of relaxed & enthralling enjoyment, we not having seen quite so many smiling faces in one club for a very long time. Add to all that, a real sense that the tide of clubbing change that had been promised in so many words, was swinging into action and we walked away from Covert happy with what we had seen, but with plenty of anticipation of what is to come, this event the first building block in a number that will surely build a solid foundation for Covert to them achieve its aims & aspirations beyond its own borders, all for the greater good of the capitals clubbing circuit. Indeed, with the wraps already being pulled off their new Friday night club “Foundation”, plus a new Saturday afternoon clubbing concept on the cusp of creation, there is already much to celebrate in terms of new brand blood, we hopeful that this will kick-start others into action, maybe even collaborating with Covert for the greater good of the capitals clubbing circuit, we raising a glass to Alan, Paulo, Alex, Tom, Steven & the whole team for showing the others how it should be done & what clubbing is all about. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Reviews | 
Tags: Alan Adams, Alan K, Alan X, Alex Erfan, Ben Jamin, Brent Nicholls, Chrissy Darling, Covert, Fat Tony, Guy Williams, Jamie Hammond, Paul Coals, Paulo Moreno, Pier Morrocco, Steven Sharp, Terry Bryan, The Sharp Boys, Tom Fuller, Tony Bruno, Tony English | 
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Hailed as “A New Beginning” for the capitals clubbing circuit in an event that brings together like minded club owners, promoters, D.J.’s & scene figureheads, we dive into the dynamic detail of this magnificent meet with commentary & links a-plenty.
Having effectively stood back and watched the splendid scene that was London crumble before our eyes, the once dynamic diversity yet inclusivity that was its strength, like a hair shorn goliath left whimpering & weak, well in certain quarters at least, it certainly seems that the success story that was the mecca of gay clubbing in the capital, Vauxhall, has, over the course of the last two to three years, ultimately been the downfall of the majority of big brands & their bashes. Indeed, with victims extending to biggies Matinee, SuperMartXe, & Lovechild, along with a myriad of others that were quashed before even finding their feet, we remained mainly blasé as to the cruel intentions & devious domination tactics that, following our very recent expose features, made us realise just how much damage, upset, upheaval & misery Orange Nation have meated out to individuals, promoters, D.J.’s, scene workers and the like. And when this despicable behaviour, masterminded by the head of this greedy group touched the lives of close friends of ours, we felt it was high time to speak out, our initial post “Finding Our Favour Faltering” (still a worthy read at http://discomatt.com/web/?p=7152) this controversial yet fact filled feature coming right on the back of a momentous power shifting occasion that saw the supposed new(ish) jewel in the Orange Nation, clubbing crown, taken away from them by the owners & investors in this Vauxhall venue.
So, having made our feelings felt across an equally faltering scene and having received rapturous applause for our brave move to speak our mind, especially given the reputation for bullying & strong armed tactics by that greedy group, it seemed the co-owners of Covert had also had enough of the competition crushing, dominance and thoroughly rotten way that Orange Nation operated, also making a stand and, with an upper hand firmly in their grasp, set about laying down the aims & achievements for championing the much needed change the clubbing circuit had and still is craving for. And while we have gone into greater detail on this marvellous movement in our preview, “Championing Clubbing Change” (out at direct link http://discomatt.com/web/?p=7390), the intrinsic part of this change the team at Covert are championing, is to engender an atmosphere of fair play across the scene, to create a more even playing field where toes are not trod upon, where promoters don’t feel threatened & where D.J.’s can play where and when they want without fear of reprehension, something which has plagued this fine profession, and particularly in Vauxhall, for far too long. So, with this cornerstone of change gaining momentum, the first step for Covert is to celebrate what they decided to call, “A New Beginning”, a special event aimed at converting their words into action and bringing together like minded individuals that, like the driving force behind this change, one Alan Adams, were as deeply passionate about making the scene a better place for everyone involved.
And so “A New beginning” was born, the date of Saturday 18th march quickly decided upon as the appropriate time to pitch their exciting proposition, while with much negotiating with promoters & D.J.’s, the event has fast become something quite spectacular, with no less than nineteen D.J.’s playing across a party that will start from 11 p.m. and run through till a planned 9 a.m. finish. So, what are the names in the frames and what can you expect from this “A New Beginning” event. Well, first & foremost, it is very much a new beginning for Covert, the team having tirelessly worked to upgrade the venue and finish what should have been finished by the departed Orange Nation, months ago. And having been shown around just a week ago, the transformation compared to our last visit in November is pretty remarkable, new stylish furniture, fixture & fittings making the upstairs VIP area feel genuinely like one, while with new lasers, lighting, roofing & flooring, plus all the finishing touches to trimmings in the main room, Covert is very much ready to deliver on the promise we were party to ahead of its opening last year. But it is the second space that has seen the biggest transformation, the awkward positioning of the D.J. booth put right and giving it an air & atmosphere, for us akin to the iconic Crash club, but with the style & sparkle that is very much a statement Covert can shout from the rooftops now. So, rather than feeling a little let down by the venue, as we were when we dived into Deelodeed last November, then the floor in the second room ripped & ragged, doors damaged, toilets scruffy and a sense that it was being maltreated, clubbers heading to Covert for this “A New beginning” event will surely be impressed with what they see.
However, what they will also be impressed with is the vast array of D.J. talent on duty this Saturday night, a roll call of residents from Vauxhall clubs past & present, all coming together in the spirit of the marvellous movement to champion change on the clubbing circuit, Alan having secured the services of a richly diverse & dynamic pack of players that each bring their own individuality, style & substance to the show. And the nineteen names, well from Pier Morrocco, Paul Coals, Terry Bryan & Jamie Hammond holding the early main room reigns, the second space sports Ben Jamin, Gianni Morriso, & Guy Williams from midnight till 3 a.m., Lovechild’s star resident Tony English following Mr Hammond in the main room, with Covert’s own Paulo Moreno & main man Alan K carrying proceedings into the early Sunday morning hours, while from Crash days of old in a reunion which is not be to missed is Brent Nicholls & then Alan X in the second space, this space also seeing Tony Bruno, while the real thrill is the inclusion of names that are very much associated with Orange Nation of past & present, The Oli, Fat Tony & The Sharp Boys all playing out in the main room, while Tuesday morning club Desire promoter Steven Geller also hits the decks, the stop press news (although yet to be confirmed) that both Gonzalo Rivas & Paul heron will also be making an appearance. So, with a truly diverse genre of sound across these nineteen scene stars, it would be difficult to single out a particular style or indeed D.J., however, Mr Moreno has produced a podcast especially for this “A New Beginning” event, one well worth a listen & more by going to http://djmorenooctober.podomatic.com/.
As for the event detail, “A New Beginning” takes place this coming Saturday (16th march) at Club Covert in Vauxhall, doors opening at 11 p.m. and the event running through to a planned 9 a.m. finish, while for press, VIP’s and other distinguished guests there is a pre-party reception from 10 p.m.. And to mark this special event occasion, the Covert team have decided to donate all profits from the night, including the whole door and bar take to the worthy cause that is The Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital (GOSH), one very much close to Mr Adams’ heart, a planned raffle throughout the course of the evening hoping to boost the bounty they will be bestowing on GOSH. So, by either paying the flat door tax fee of £10 or by buying an advance ticket via http://clubtickets.com/gb/2013-03/16/covert-presents-a-new-beginning, you will be making a charitable contribution as well as being part of the clubbing change Covert is championing. Plus with a D.J. line up so dynamic, this looks set to be not just an exceptional event. But the real talk of the town, so one surely you cannot miss, the team echoeing our sentiments when they say “…Covert is shifting up a gear and we want you to come and celebrate this exciting new phase with us. DJ line-up is impressive enough, combine that with a few stunning surprises we have planned and you know this will be a night you would not want to miss…”. Add to all that, hosts Chrissy Darling, Sylvia Rebel & the one & only Dior on duty, you will be guaranteed a warm welcome & then heaps of hospitality that sould certainly seal the deal, more detail should you need it, out via the events page at https://facebook.com/events/431518406929706/, while, health fit or not, we will be stepping out on Saturday to soak up the starting point of this clubbing change we are equally passionate about, so if you see us please come say hi, naturally making sure you “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: Alan Adams, Alan K, Alan X, Ben Jamin, Brent Nicholls, Chrissy Darling, Covert, Fat Tony, Gianni Morriso, Gonzalo Rivas, Guy Williams, Jamie Hammond, Paul Coals, Paul Heron, Paulo Moreno, Pier Morrocco, Steven Geller, Terry Bryan, The Oli, The Sharp Boys, Tony Bruno, Tony English | No Comments »
Despite a complete lack of PR and serious question marks over the D.J. line up, we throw our Weekend Focus attention on Matinee, which returns to London this Saturday, once again going head to head with Beyond in a towering ten hour happening that, however, leaves us asking lots of blending or buckling brand questions, this along with other issues that also leave us luke warm rather than piping hot in recommendation
When we look back across the recent times we have been stepping out on the capitals clubbing circuit, we have been blessed with witnessing some of the globe’s biggest brands doing the same, La Demence, Muccassassina, SuperMartXe, Space, The Week, La Troya, Cafe Ole, Scream, & Delice being just a handful of happenings, while we have also been fortunate to have played out in home grown brands that have, like their international counterparts, made a splash abroad, Trade, Orange, Salvation & Lovechild four fabulous examples. Yet there are two names missing from each clubbing category here, the former collection being a Spanish superclub & the latter an awesome afterhours achiever, the global giant that is Matinee belonging to those international imported, while it could only be Beyond that is the home grown clubbing colossus that has made it big on the international stage, the recent relationship between the two here in London being not quite so rosy, as the team behind Beyond always used to see Matinee as not just direct competition but a forceful threat, often extending the usual afterhours into either eight or twelve hours affairs in an attempt to de-rail the position & popularity of Matinee.
However, 2012 has seen an about turn on this rocky relationship, as, having taken a short break from the scene, Matinee not only returned to the capital, but its bounce back was very much orchestrated by those same organisers of Beyond, Orange Nation, while were considerable question marks over Matinee re-emerging in London within the same clubbing corporation that promotes Spanish brand WE Party in London, not to mention the once considered advisory of Matinee, Beyond. But times they do change the saying “…if the cloak fits…” very appropriate in the case of these two brands as this coming Saturday marks the second occasion in just three months that Matinee & Beyond have joined forces, the last outing, by all accounts being a roadblock affair (not sure how we missed it). Yet with the feeling running around regular clubbers on the Vauxhall scene that it is fast becoming same old same old, there is a nagging thought in our minds that this latest collaboration between two of the biggest named brands on the capital’s scene is just that, not least when you take a glance at the D.J. line-up which virtually mirrors the last, save for J. Louis who makes his third appearance for Matinee London this year alone, while looking at some of the names in the frames, the promotions team have seemingly heavily weighed the event in favour of Matinee rather than Beyond, despite it being in the latter’s own backyard, Area.
So what of the D.J. line up and other event detail? Well, with a noticeable absence of the usual press releases we have needed to resort to social networking research to find the necessary information and, according to the “official” event page which, despite given the size & magnitude of the party, was only released three days ago, we find that joining J Louis are London based D.J.’s that have played for every single Matinee party this year, Massimo Paramour, Guy Williams & Rob Sykes, not that awe inspiring to be honest, while we are assuming that D’Johnny, Alan K, Paulo Moreno, Verity Mayes, Bryony Masters & David Jimenez are flying the Beyond flag. However, given that this is a twelve hour event spread across three rooms, we cannot help but think that the D.J. team is spread pretty thinly, while despite assurances to the contrary, we find a bunch of spinning stars that were not only playing Beyond last weekend, but do pretty much every week, while others that would normally expect to be rotational, have been left out completely. Moreover, we are left a little confused by the promotional teams choices of D.J.’s as, if we are not mistaken, Guy Williams & Rob Sykes are part of the Beyond rotational residency team, so which flag are they flying on Saturday/Sunday, we hardly having to mention the names that are missing, the absence of one duo not just this weekend it seems, we having been reliably informed that they were told that their music style “…does not fit with Beyond…” despite them having be residents for the brand since 2005, all this leaving us deeply concerned that, particularly Beyond, is being badly buckled rather than brilliantly blended in this latest collaboration.
So what of the event theme “Ghetto Fabulous”? Well with no PR to go we, we are scratching our heads to be honest, the event info stating “…who’s got the most bling?, who’s rocking the latest high tops?, who’s new era snapback is freshest and who’s six pack is the hardest?…” they going on to say that “…all the hottest boys will be out to see at two global super-brands go head to head…” we still not sure about the Ghetto part of the event theme, unless they mean it’s going to have the feel of the Ghetto (let’s hope not!!). But it goes on when they say “…we’re pulling out all the stops at the follow up to our ‘Summer Blowout’, an 80’s throwback where the circuit boys get their inspiration. Expect the biggest possible production, the hottest possible gogo’s, the most talented DJs and of course the most up for it crowd in London…”. So maybe the 80’s throwback part refers to Ghetto, while the “the most talented D.J.’s” claim quite frankly doesn’t hold much water, although perhaps we are going a little far there as, collectively, there is well over 70 years of experience behind the decks, albeit that this Matinee vs. Beyond event is missing some of its most high profile & experienced hands, enough said. But one thing is for sure, the production & the dancers should be top notch, not least that the organisers confirm that “…the dancers & dance shows are choreographed by our sensational in-house superstars Shaun Capewell & Elektra Paris…” their pedigree for putting on spectacular shows extending to prolific WE, CasaLatina, & A:M events, as well as both Beyond & Matinee, Area’s stages & podiums sure to be propelled to their fullest potential.
Having said our piece (or is that pieces) with regard to this latest Beyond Matinee affair, lets, for a minute, concentrate on the all important detail, this “Ghetto Fabulous” event taking place this coming Saturday (10th November) at Area in Vauxhall, doors opening at midnight & the event running till 10.am. in a slightly reduced running time to the previous party , advance tickets very much the way to go as, despite what we have said, this is sure to be a roadblock affair, very much like the last outing that we missed, these tickets out online at direct link http://orangenation.co.uk/events/beyond-vs-matinee-ghetto-fabulous/ priced at £15, while you can always venture into Soho to stores Prowler, Clone Zone & 50 Dean St, or by asking over the bar(s) at Comptons & Ku. However, should you prefer to risk simply paying on the door then expect to pay more, while if you get hold of one the special Matinee vs. Beyond flyers or ads, then this will entitle you to entry for £10 before 3 a.m., the team of flyer boys out & about in Soho & Vauxhall both on Friday & Saturday handing out these & other discounted passes/wristbands. Plus with door host JJ Clark & the marvellous Maurico Ortiz inside the club, you are in heavenly hands, while we are sure that the terrific Tom Fuller will be making sure only the best & friendliest bar & coatcheck staff are on duty to make your first impression experience all the more pleasurable, allowing to soak up this Matinee & Beyond bash to the fullest extent.
So what about us?, well, as of going to press, it looks like we have too many other events on our plate to give “Ghetto Fabulous” sufficient justice, but this doesn’t mean you should miss out and while our recommendation may be a warm one, we are pretty sure the action will be hot, hot hot down at Area this Saturday, meaning you should make a date with Matinee vs. Beyond & in doing so “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: Alan K, Area, Beyond, Bryony Masters, David Jimenez, Guy Williams, J Louis, JJ Clark, Massimo Paramour, Matinee, Mauricio Ortiz, Paulo Moreno, Rob Sykes, Tom Fuller, Verity Mayes | No Comments »
With all roads not only leading but looking to start here, Disco Matt chooses Beyond “Midnight” which takes place tonight/tomorrow (Sat/Sun 7th/8th April) at Area in Vauxhall, as his pick of the day, not least as DM’s premier player, Steve Pitron, will be delivering a captivating catalogue of classics in his showstopper of a set, all the detail a supporting banner selection away opposite, an image click away below, or an Orange Group event explanation beneath.
The Orange Group say of this event…
BEYOND MIDNIGHT – XLSIOR PRE PARTY
Easter Saturday 7th April Midnight – Midday Sunday @ AREA
The UK’s leading clubbing brand throws a special Bank Holiday Saturday Midnight party serving up 12 hours of turbocharged house music to an up for it crowd celebrating the Easter Weekend.
Plus, as Beyond will host the official afterhours party at XLsior Festival Mykonos for the third consecutive year, we’re thrilled to host the official pre party for the 4 day gay dance event which takes later this year. We welcome their main resident DJ GSP to the decks, who’s played at fantastic clubs all over the world, including guest spots at Fire and WE Party.
As usual the Beyond all star DJ team rocks the house across all three rooms, with incredible production and massive gogo shows from Shaun Capewell and Elektra Paris.
Admission:
Free entry before 1am with online guestlist, flyer or ad
Advance tickets £10 at http://orangenation.clubtickets.com. &/or via usual Soho outlets
Otherwise £12 before 3am, £15 after
Posted in Uncategorized | Tags: Alan K, Area, Beyond, Elektra Paris, Fat Tony, George Sharp, GSP, Guy Williams, JJ Clark, Paul Christian, Steve Pitron, Steven Sharp, The Oli, The Sharp Boys, Tom Fuller, XLsior | No Comments »
Having covered “The Big Easter Weekend Ticket” trio of treats, it’s time to let another appetising trio of treats take to the DM spotlight, three exceptional events that deserve to have their Easter say, as the weekend hails the return of two brilliant brands form our partying past, well as a special Sunday serving Stephan style, Disco Matt biting into the detail on Discotec, Fiction & Dish.
The strength of the capitals clubbing circuit is its diversity, while the same could be said for its familiarity, a whole host of brilliant brands & popular parties continuing to draw considerable crowds, whether they be the weekly happenings, the monthly gatherings or the infrequent, that dynamic diversity playing out right across London although, undeniably, in the rich playgrounds that are Soho, Vauxhall & Shoreditch. And while we do our best to lay out Best Bites & Short Shouts hat on all three, when it comes to special weekends like this one, it seems only fair to devote some more focussed attention to appetising alternatives that are also pushing the Easter envelope & awaiting your attention. But these are no ordinary events, as each one represents a harping back to the halcyon days of hedonistic clubbing, when underground & alternative were bywords of a scene that still had to remain pretty inconspicuous due to society’s discriminations, a time when blacked out windows, & backyard venues out of the mainstream sights & sounds engendered a surge of scene splendours such as Trade, Crash, Factor 25 & DTPM that very much paved the way for the superb & inclusive scene that we see today.
So to the first of and a Thursday night club of iconic proportions, plus one that was very much at the forefront of that clubbing revolution in the late 90’s nearly noughties, playing out to capacity crowds from its historic home of The den on the edge of Soho, keeping the party & its popularity going for close on fifteen years. But as times on the scene have changed & social patterns have shifted, Thursday’s began to fizzle out and Discotec began to feel the pinch, plans to demolish its home also sealing the clubs fate. But like all the best brands in the business, not least those legendary names we have mentioned above, the desire for Discotec has remained healthy in the hearts of its diehard fans, many of who couldn’t contain their excitement when the news broke of his swansong like reappearance on the scene. However, with The Den no more the clubs original promoter, Laurent Chaumet, quickly looked to his clubbing & promoting pal Wayne Shires & his connections with The Brixton Clubhouse (that is in Brixton before you ask) to secure the venue for this Discotec “Easter Special” event. And Laurent is very excited to be bringing the brand back, telling us “…I am so excited about bringing Discotec back and being at the beginning of the four day break & on a Thursday as well should hopefully prove a recipe for success…” he adding “…the Brixton Clubhouse will add an extra dimension to this dance event, combining inside & out like Dicotec-ers have never seen before…”
With that backdrop and knowing that this Discotec gathering is sure to be something special, let’s dive into the detail this extra special Easter event taking place tomorrow night (Thurs 5th April) at The Brixton Clubhouse (467-469 Brixton Rd), door opening at 10 p.m. with the event running through to a planned 4 a.m., entry available on the door for just £5 before midnight & then £10 thereafter (bargain!!!). And as for those two spaces, well its very much about upfront, funky & nu-disco house as Laurent & his team welcome Discotec regulars Guy Williams & Femi B to the decks, although the really exciting inclusion for us is the faaabulous Fidel, better known in his (or is it her) Discotec demure as Marron Bitch, this terrific talent having laid down a soundtrack especially for the occasion, so one well worth checking out by going to http://soundcloud.com/fidel-77/fidel-3 & sink into Marron’s magnificent music which will be flooding the so called Saint Club room on Thursday. But alfresco dancing will also be the name of the game, as the Discotec second space will be out on the BCH sundecks (well moondecks really!!), with a brace of Discotec boys on the D.J. decks, Slamma & Jeffrey Hinton sorting the sounds, while MC Brandy will be on the mic & Joy on the drums (percussion to the posh!), with Smirnoff flavours the theme of this outside space & bar, while the Manhunt men will be out in force supplying the eye candy & wearing Andre Christian underwear (yum yum), further information up at https://facebook.com/events/269188593158846/.
So to the second of this appetising alternative trio of treats and another brilliant brand that was in the thick of that evolutionary come revolutionary movement in clubbing around the turn of the century, Fiction a formidable Friday force to be reckoned with, holding sway at The Cross, a bit of a backyard venue in the relative dereliction of warehouses that was part of the infamous Bagley’s collection of buildings, yet this raw & ready state of the place was an intrinsic part of its popularity, dancing on the tables, swinging from the chandeliers (well lights then!) & just general decadent dancing delirium was all part of the prolific package. And Fiction’s creator, DTPM’s Lee Freeman, drew a wealth of D.J. talent, some from the huge success that was Trade, both Malcolm Duffy & Fat Tony regular residents of this Friday frolic, while names such as Miguel Pellitero, Cosmo, Harji & Justin Ballard were indelible inclusions, while other names such as Nick Tcheniak & Guy Williams also graced its decks regularly. Spread over three spaces including an outside terrace, Fiction was the first club that boasted alfresco shimmying and with a reputation of being mad, mixed & better for it, Fiction was the forerunner of what is now commonly known as metrosexuality. But, like Discotec, Fiction fell foul both of a change in trends plus the demolition of The Cross, as part of the substantial redevelopment of the whole Kings Cross area and so by 2007 the club was no more, its sister DTPM also facing changing trends & times.
But with Lee Freeman having made a respeldant return to the scene just a couple of years ago, Fiction was always on the cards to come back for a series of pop-up parties, although with Kings Cross now a major construction & re-development site, choosing a venue to re-emulate the Fiction feel was always going to be tricky, the fist reunion two years ago round the corner from The Cross a shadow of its former self, albeit that the event was a sell-out. But with Mr Freeman laying down routes in South London & engrossing himself in his own re-development project, the result being The Kennington Pub & Kitchen, it is this new sparkling scene spot that will be playing host to the second re-coming of Fiction, Lee telling us “…I have been hunting around to find the right place and have to admit that this was not the easiest of tasks. In fact, it was so difficult, that I decided to put together my own place and now it’s finished, it’s time to party…” adding about his venue “…The Kennington is just a stone’s throw from Kennington Park, 2 mins from Oval tube (Northern Line), has a great terrace on the front and has been refurbished to the highest standards. Nothing but the best for you! We have to say it’s a bit smaller than The Cross, so ticket numbers will be limited to advance purchases only! It’s a beautiful venue & all on one level too, so no need for all those stairs this time and the bonus is, that we can all get down to that Fiction vibe together…”
So what of the detail, well Lee has already spilled the beans on the venues location & feel, but with the team welcoming back the terrific trio of D.J. residents from days of old (sorry boys!), you couldn’t ask for a better package, as Guy Williams, Fat Tony & Justin Ballard will be mixing it up from re-union start to finish, the running order very much under wraps but likely to be a mish mash in true Fiction style, Lee stating that “… we couldn’t do this without a few of those DJs who contributed to and made Fridays so much fun for 8 years of Friday night hedonism & they’re digging out some old alongside some new tunes too…”. So with this Fiction re-union kicking off from 10.30 p.m. on Good Friday (6th April), the planned running time taking you through till 4 a.m., but with space relatively limited compared to its historical home, naturally numbers have been limited too and of going to press, it seems that there are only a few advanced tickets left, meaning you should head straight to direct link http://ticketweb.co.uk/user/?region=gb_london&query=detail&event=501914&interface to grab your £15 pass, as there is no entry on the door & no guestlist, more information, should you need it, available at http://dtpm.net & http://thekennington.com.
To the third in our trio of alternative treats and we fast forward to Easter Sunday and look towards Shoreditch, the rich playing field of clubs such as Gutterslut, SOS, Trailer Trash & Paradise 45, to mention just a few, while venues such as The Dalston Superstore, The Joiners Arms, The Horse & Groom &, naturally, Shoreditch House, having very much transformed this area into a melting pot of activity. But with the underground splendour that is East Bloc very much heading up this trendsetting east meets west social & clubbing scene, the recent collaborations between Wayne Shires & Tom Stephan (aka Superchumbo) producing one of the true success stories of 2011, “Meat” having very much spearheaded the renaissance of clubbing that harps back to the days of Crash, probably the club that was singularly responsible for totally transforming the clubbing scene segment that we now know as Vauxhall, “Mat” taking the underground excellence of Crash & transporting it into East Bloc with considerable success. However, it didn’t stop there with this brilliant brand, as special parties down in Brixton elevated its appeal, although Tom decided he wanted to brand to grace its exit while at the top of its game, his promoter partner Kris Di Angelis heading off to new projects, leaving our Mr Stephan with the prospect of a re-branding issue, the result being “Dish”.
With two parties already under his belt, the launch in January & another hedonistic happening in March going down a storm, “Dish” in effect a new version of “Meat” but introducing a more dynamic team of D.J.’s, the March affair particularly served up a superb session akin to a three course meal of cavorting, East Bloc proving, once again, a prolific playing ground for this party, meaning that, having re-captured the imagination of east end boys, west end girls & everything in-between, Easter was always going to be the next prize for Tom & his “Dish” team. However, with trends swaying towards Sunday rather than Saturday as being the preferred option, this has also meant that a switch in venue has been required, although in Basing House & having spoken with Tom he tells us that “…Basing House now have an amazing Function One sound system impressive effects & a pretty impressive laser…” and coming from a man that knows the business better than most, this speaks immediate volumes, Tom adding that “…the first two Dish’s have been amazing and this should be even better…”. And to cement that statement with some substance, just take a look at the promo video at http://youtube.com/watch?v=kohSmarNCzI which should pretty much seal the deal on his “Dish” delight or at least whet your appetite for tucking into this sumptuous Sunday soiree.
But what about the Dish detail? Well, as we have said, it switches from Saturday to Sunday, taking place this Easter Sunday (8th April), also switching venues from East Bloc just across Shoreditch to Basing House (25 Kingsland Rd) and kicking off from 10 p.m. & running through till 4 a.m. As for the D.J.’s on duty, naturally Mr Stephan will be in the thick of the action, although he is joined by Room Service’s & east end boy Dimitry Strigun, along with Dish co-promoter Borja Peña in the main’s meal room, while appetiser servings & hosting will also come from La Pequeña, Melvin and Kane Luke, added to which the way out, whacky & totally outrageous go-go’s, Fer & Claudio will be dishing out plenty of saucy treats, those on top of the pop-up art & visuals drawn from the huge collection that Tom has amassed over the years, these very much needing to be seen to be believed. With Laurent (yes he of Discotec fame) & Benoit on the door, entry is a mere £7 before midnight & then £12 thereafter, more info up at http://facebook.com/events/401956656485367/, while to get a taste of the soundtrack to expect, then we definitely checking out Tom Stephan’s latest compilation at http://soundcloud.com/tomstephan/house-music-girlfriend-you, one packed with banging house beats shout the superb Superchumbo style of sound and one definitely for the collection as well as a tantalising temptation to head across to Basing House on Sunday.
So, that’s our appetising alternative trio of treats, all worth more than just a consideration, each one proof in the pudding of the dynamic diversity that the scene serves up, so well worth soaking up in their own right. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: Basing House, Borja Pena, Dimitry Strigun, Discotec, Dish, East Bloc, Fat Tony, Femi B, Fidel, Guy Williams, Jeffrey Hinton, Justin Ballard, Laurent Chaumet, Lee Freeman, Marron Bitch, MC Brandy, The Brixton Clubhouse, Tom Stephan | No Comments »
While the emphasis on “The Big Easter Weekend Ticket” having propelled it’s trio of treats to the fore, there is little doubt that The Orange Group have plenty more on offer, a collective of clubs that carries you from Thursday to Monday, Disco Matt biting into the seven other Orange Nation Easter events that make this the biggest gay weekend this year yet.
Having shouted from the rooftops about “The Big Easter Weekend Ticket”, an outstanding Orange Group offer that encompasses three of its biggest brands, Beyond, WE & As One, one could be forgiven that Easter is all about this towering three course clubbing collective, although with a brand broom cupboard that is literally bursting at the seams, there is, in fact, plenty more on offer from the capitals most comprehensive clubbing corporations. So with The Orange Group very much holding sway from Thursday through Monday with no less than ten gay events & parties, we couldn’t simply point our recommendations posting in the direction of “The Big Ticket” package, as there is much more on offer down Vauxhall way this weekend.
So getting straight to it, this coming big weekend looks ever bigger than at first meets the eye as tonight (Thursday 5th April) marks the beginning of a five day clubbing marathon as Gravity kicks off this Easter weekend its “Bad Thursday” event, a cute play on words by the promotions team as the vent actually stretches deep into Good Friday, stretching also a byword of this bash, as Gravity will be stretching its offer from one to two rooms, indeed switching in a Easter extension from Fire to the hi-tec Lightbox & plush Protocol club spaces, the team pleased as punch to be upgrading Gravity for this one off “Bad Thursday” foray. And with two distinct arenas of sound, they are pushing the boat further out, drawing in a truck load of terrific D.J. talent, the Protocol room going deep & sexy tech house in the hands of Guy Williams, Ariel & verity Mayes, while the more uplifting atmosphere of The Lightbox will be matched by the music, courtesy of Severino Fat Tony & Jonny M. But the promotions team will also be marking Easter with their “…Great Gravity Easter Egg Hunt…” encouraging you to forage for & find an egg to win free tickets for Beyond “Midnight”, that promotions team including new boy Danny Boyce who will be ability assisted by Elektra Paris & JJ Clark, while we are promised successive super sexy gogo shows throughout the night (or is that morning. With doors opening earlier than usual at midnight tonight (Thurs 5th) and the club running through to a planned 10 a.m. finish, admission is just £8 in advance at http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/05/gravity-presents-bad-thursday, while discounted £5 flyer entry is up for grabs for the first hour, while entry will be available on the door, but expect to pay more.
Onto Friday and Onyx, still riding high following its resplendent return to its home turf Area last week, sets its own brilliant benchmark even higher this (Fri 6th April), especially given the reputation of parties in the previous two Easter’s gone by, when the themes of “Resurrection” & “Crucified”, promoter Verity Mayes in record for saying that “…This year we take things up another level, showcasing the ‘Holy Trinity’ of Areas trio of rooms…” “Holy Trinity” the theme of this 2012 chapter in Onyx’s Easter extravaganza’s and that benchmark being met head on with headlining D.J. duo The Hoxton Whores, who will be taking hold of Area’s main room, no doubt playing out a host of their hits which include the mighty “Fusion”, as well as the equally appealing “Devil Toy”, while it is their latest club smash, a remix of “Right Before My Eyes” that will be getting an exclusive airing for the first time at a gay event (check out their podcast pressed exclusive for Orange Nation at http://orangenation.podomatic.com/entry/2012-04-04T06_27_24-07_00, while new Onyx main room resident Terry Bryan will be ably supporting & slotting in & around The Hoxton Whores extended 4 hour set. But with the other two rooms proving just as popular in their own right, the chapel space very much about uplifting commercial pop & house in the hands of Lady Lloyd & James St James, the new style pop up club nature of the terrace space is spearheaded by Kartel Brown, alongside the likes of Maximus Crown & NiYi, all very much evoking the club kid style that Onyx seems to be leaning towards. But with Sandro providing much of the main room eye candy along with his gorge gogo’s the new lighting installations that are giving Onyx its own unique feel, are boosted by the dream team of hosts headed up by the larger than life Chrissy Darling & her bevy of boys that include Mark-Ashley Dupe, Dalton, Jake Cook and Martin Rab, this is one Good Friday frolic you won’t want to miss, doors opening at 11 p.m. and the club running through to a planned 5 a.m. finish, entry for “The Big Ticket” holders free before 12.30 a.m., while for others, general admission is £8 (£6 with flyer/ad), while advance tickets online is a good option as you can grab an Onyx/A:M combo for just £12 at http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/06/onyx-extreme, while it’s also worth paying a visit to http://gayguestlists.com/onyx for discounted entry.
And with that mention of A:M, it neatly moves us onto the clubs “Easter Headliners” event which storms your Saturday morning in a massive way, not least that promoter Steven Sharp has pulled in a real heavy weight to match the magnitude of this Easter weekend meet, Paul Harris heading a thrilling line up that also includes Fat Tony, Jamie Head & David Jimenez in the main room, while Paulo Moreno is the man to master A;M’s lounge this week. As for the event’s headliner Paul Harris, well Steven is best placed to push his talents when he tells us, “…he has been making music & Dj’ing for nearly 15 years. As one third of the group Dirty Vegas; he enjoyed huge success in the USA following the use of the band’s single “Days Go By” in a Mitsobishi Eclipse stateside TV ad campaign which catapulted the band to the top of the US Dance Chart, national top 10 and boosted the tracks profile so much that it won the coveted Grammy Award in 2003 for Best Dance Recording! All this exciting news raised Paul’s Dj profile which soared as he toured the World and continued to produce music and remix tracks under his own name & as Dirty Vegas. International artists including Calvin Harris, Dizzee Rascal Justin Timberlake and Madonna all received the remix treatment!…” we not needing to add much more, apart from DON’T MISS HIS SET!!!., as we certainly won’t, having already booked our place at this prolific party. Mind you, with Jamie Head on absolute fire at the moment, we cannot wait for his set either, while Paulo Moreno having freed himself from the shackles of playing partner Alan K, should prove an interesting lounge listen in. As for the vent itself, well it’s an afterhours party, meaning doors open in the early morning hours, this weekend at 3 a.m. and running through to a Saturday morning normality breaking 11 a.m., entry available on the door, ably controlled by Hrh Minty, at a standard £12 (£8 with flyer/ad), while, once again, “The Big Ticket” holders can take advantage of free entry up to 5 a.m., Onyx goers advised to look out for the special discount stamp, more info should you need it, out at http://facebook.com/AMafterhours, while with heavenly host Danny Boyce looking after your every whim & whisper, the last word on this event goes to Steven who say’s, “…it’s set to be an Easter weekend to remember, so join me and the team for the essential Saturday Morning meet, sending peace, daffodils and chocolate bunnies to you all…” we love it!!
So where are we up to?, oh yes, Later, which in true bank holiday style has not one, but two bites of the Easter chocolate bunny (sorry Steven, had to use it) clubbing cherry, the main event taking place on Easter Sunday (8th April) & billed as the “WE Warm Up”, this daytime disco nestling like a proud mother hen, between Beyond & WE “Fluro”. However, the team do acknowledge the fact that some of you may want to take a breather between these two mighty meets, so there are no big plans to extend the usual Later offer, the Mirrorarch room at Fire the dance arena, while the infamous Later garden is the chill out space, having been spruced up for Spring with new furniture, the b.b.q. sure to be on full blast. But the big blasts will be coming courtesy of the delights of D.J.’s that include The Oli, Jamie Head, Per Q.X. & Femi B, while CO2 cannon blasts will play their part in proceedings, the amazing atmosphere enhanced by new Later visuals, decor, production & projections making this one of the most talked about weekly meets on the clubbing calendar, so should prove a popular place this coming Sunday. So, with doors opening at 11.30 a.m. at Fire and the club running through to a planned 7 a.m. finish, why not (like us) just keep the party going from Beyond to WE in the hands of Later & a Jamie Head set we have been promised will be a corker, entry priced at a mere £10, either on the door or in advance by going online to http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/08/later-bank-holiday-special, while its just £8 before 1 p.m. with an ad or flyer, discount stamps available at Beyond beforehand. And come Monday afternoon (9th April), the team will be daytime disco doing it all again, the same times, the same place and (we think) the same superb sounds, all at the same price too, in the words of the promotions team regarding this Later “Extra” event, “…well aren’t you lucky, a double helping of Later goodness this Easter Bank Holiday…” more details on both available at http://facebook.com/LATER.INFO.
So to the final piece in the prolific package & clubbing jigsaw Orange group style and it could only go to Beyond which is sure to at least match or even beat the rest of the offer of two exceptional events this weekend, as while Beyond “Midnight” is the biggie, the other piece of bread in the Beyond sandwich is “Recharged”, the second Easter coming of our most favourite & awesome afterhours, Area on Monday morning (9th April) from 6 a.m. being the time & the place, although given previous parties, we reckon this may be a slightly more sedate affair than the main “Midnight” event of the weekend (that massive meat filling in the Beyond Easter sandwich), we suspect the main room & the chapel space open, although having spoken with promoter Steven Sharp just this morning, he has confirmed that it is planned as a three room party, the the teams expectations being that As One party goers sinmply won’t want to stop & with beyond at their disposal, will take full advantage of bank holiday Monday morning. Plus we have received confirmation that The Oli & Guy Williams will be heading up the “Recharged” main room, while over in the Beyond RAW room, it’s Hifi Sean & David Jimenez, with , George Sharp & Jamie Head flying the Da Disco (that’s terrace room) flag However, with further news due & Beyond “Recharged” already looking like our Monday pick of the day, our new & latest website section “Picks” will be the place to go during the course of the weekend, as we post final details of this “Recharged” Beyond bash which plans to run until midday, advance standard £10 tickets applying, which you can purchase online at http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/09/beyond-recharged or at the usual Soho outlets, while entry on the door will be available although priced at £15.
So that’s the full Orange Easter Others picture complete and what a prolific picture it is, a full on five day frolic encompassing no less than nine parties, from Gravity to Later & the likes of Onyx, A:M, Beyond WE & As One, so not just the “Big Easter Weekend” but the biggest in our books. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Beyond, Chrissy Darling, Danny Boyce, Fat Tony, Femi B, Gravity, Guy Williams, Hifi Sean, Jamie Head, Jonny M, Kartel Brown, Laldy Lloyd, Later, Onyx, Paul Harris, Paulo Moreno, Per Q.X., Severino, Steven Sharp, Terry Bryan, The Hoxton Whores, The Oli, The Sharp Boys | No Comments »
For scrumptious starters there is an ample appetiser of awesome afterhours autonomy, followed by a majestic mains mountain of scintillating Spanish supremacy, this three course clubbing colossus picture completed by a dream of a dessert, cream of the crop filled captivating clubbing collaboration. Yes, it’s Easter, which can only mean one thing “The Big Ticket” is back, Disco Matt delving into the detail of this most prolific & popular of packages.
There are a small handful of dates in our disco dance diary across any given year that are just that, a given certainty that we will be stepping significantly out onto the capitals clubbing circuit, Christmas & then New Year naturally close to the top of the tree, while the trio of bank holiday weekends, the two in May & the one in August, generally tugging hard on our house music & scene strutting strings. Then of course, there is Pride weekend, and while it does not boast an extra day off work, we tend to throw ourselves into a packed weekend of parties regardless, while as we cast our eyes into 2012, we see a brace of other examples where stepping out on the scene will be a given, The Queen’s Jubilee one, and, The Olympics another, both sure to prove hedonistic highlights for many, or at least a great excuse to capture a collection of clubs. But when it comes to those special stepping out onto the scene weekends, Easter is difficult to beat & better, not least that the weekend here genuinely starts on a Thursday night and, if you are so inclined, it can carry you through to the flowing Tuesday without your feet touching the homeward bound ground.
So yes, Easter is right up there with the best weekends of the year, probably topping our tree of choices, but with so much going on and four, sometimes five days to soak up the splendours of the scene often means a substantial & sometimes severe hole can be burnt in the pocket, after all its not just the drinks that cause a dent in your dollar, but racking up six, seven or even eight clubs can be a very expensive experience indeed. However, we are pleased to say that one section of the clubbing community has recognised that fact, a corporation that pretty much holds sway on the capitals circuit this Easter, with no less than eight events stretching from Thursday to Tuesday, although acknowledge that Sunday & Monday are the precious prizes in the clubbing calendar on this holy weekend of the year. So, having launched their hugely successful “Big Ticket” package back in 2010, have brought it back with a bang for this coming weekend, combining a trio of clubbing treats into just one entry pass, a ticket that gains you access to three of the biggest bashes in London, not only offering a delightful discount, but negating the need to carry a collection of tickets in your pocket, your purse or your wallet.
Now that’s the concept, but what the “The Big Ticket” offer you this Easter? Well, when we make mere mention of Beyond, WE & As One, you will probably recognise these as the premier picks in any weekend, let alone Easter, ach one having proved, time after time, roadblock events and very much THE places to be & be seen stepping out on the scene. So, with just one ticket, this towering three course clubbing collective is right at your fingertips and all for the singular price of just £40, yes pretty much the deal of the century when you consider just how colossal these clubs brands are, WE riding a worldwide wave crest that has left the likes of its Spanish compatriots SuperMartXe & Matinee very much in the shade, while what we have said about Beyond in the past still holds true, this breathtakingly brilliant brand having ridden its own wave crest for as long as we can remember, proving that, even on regular weeks, all roads lead to its doors. But then we turn to As One, a concept born a little over two years ago, but stormed the scene from the outsight, the bringing together of clubbing minds, spirits & souls the epicentre of its success and, having forged a new path this NYD, sees some of the biggest names in capital clubbing come together in a capitavting combination that, just like this Easter weekend, is hard to beat or better. So with the sales pitch definitely driven home, we know you know that “The Big Easter Ticket” option makes complete sense, meaning its just now a case of clicking on this online link and securing your pass to this towering trio of treats, http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/07/the-big-ticket-easter-weekend the place to go and for just £40, it is really a bargain you cannot beat, but this unbeatable bargain it doesn’t stop there, as “The Big Ticket” gets you free entry to both Onyx & A:M (more on that in a mo), meaning that, in reality, it’s a quintet rather than a trio of treats. However, if you prefer to grab one in person, fear not, as the same £40 package is available at Soho outlets Prowler, Clone Zone & 50.
Now that’s “The Big Ticket” itself, what about the trio of treats? Well, in the tradition of a fabulous three course meal, let’s kick off with the starters first, but this is no small portion, rather a most ample appetiser, as Beyond is the brand to kick start this towering three course clubbing collective, the team not only pleased as punch that the brands backyard is back in business, Area already benefitting from some nip & tuck changes, but will be extending the clubs offer this Sunday to their now famed “Midnight” format, that means our (yours too we are sure) favourite & most awesome of afterhours gets going this Saturday (7th April) or as we prefer to call it, zero o’clock on Sunday (8th April), running a full twelve hours till midday on Sunday, showcasing the best that the brand has to offer in is terrific team of London D.J. residents, promoter Steven Sharp having confirmed the line-up exclusively to us, which includes Hafiz Sean & Paul Christian in the “Beyond RAW” room (formerly the Chapel space) with the welcome return of our Seville showstopper, Gonzalo Rivas, But it goes one, as in the “Beyond Da Disco” room (formerly the terrace), we cannot contain our excitement, as Jamie Head makes a welcome return (please not at the same time as Steve Pitron), while The Oli & Fat Tony will rock the space to its foundations, oh and Jonny M will be there too. All that said, the main room will be the main attraction and you better get there early, well before 5 a.m. at least as Steve Pitron makes a resplendent return after a break of over a month with a special classics set to mark his award winning “Ultimate DJ” status and has already warned us to expect complete emotional destruction (you know how it goes…tears, floods & tweets). Then, sandwiching special guest D.J.GSP, who will be flying the XLsior flag with a bunch of euro style & uplifting tunes (check out his podcast at http://orangenation.podomatic.com/entry/2012-03-26T13_16_13-07_00), will be two dynamic duo’s, The Sharp Boys & then Alan K & Paulo Moreno going b2b, this starter segment looking simply spectacular, those without “The Big Ticket” able to grab singular entry either in advance online at http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/08/beyond-midnight-easter-saturday-xlsior-pre-party or via Soho outlets Prowler, Clone Zone & 50, more details a click away at http://facebook.com/beyondclub.
To the second instalment or should we call it the magnificent mains meal of this trio of treats and it is the magnificent & massive WE party that takes centre stage with a t-dance style turnout that proved ever so popular on New Year’s Day, hence the team repeating the winning formula that is sure to prove just as popular as last time. And with a D.J. line up that includes the might of Gonzalo Rivas, Jamie Head & Steve Pitron, it should fulfil all expectations, not least that London is once again showcasing the newest concept in the WE Party pack, “Fluro” the theme & one for the senses, as we have been told to expect the best in visuals, effects & lasers that host venue The Coronet has ever seen, this being no mean feat as previous parties “Pharaoh”, Safari” & “Disco” were prolific enough, while “Candy” still remains a high benchmark that keeps both the Spanish & London promotions teams on their toes. And talking of that London tea, with the likes of Tom Fuller, JJ Clark & Ben Kaye on hand, it is strong enough, although with Aaron Elder having very much grasped the nettle in recent events, WE London under his steership is going from strength to strength, the inclusion of Room Service in the prolific package adding to the appeal. But WE Madrid still have their say, promoter Victor Pallas employing his newest resident D.J. Raul Ortiz, a pretty much unknown talent but one that is sure to sparkle under the spotlight. Add to the music magnificence, we have been told to expect “…incredible visuals and stage production, mind blowing special effects, and more gogos and dancers on stage than ever before…” and given just how amazed we were with “Safari” on NY, as well as the fabulous feedback we received about “Pharoah” we can believe it. But it doesn’t stop there as room two is all about Room Service, yes Jodie Harsh & her terrific team are back, the dynamic duo that is Kris Di Angelis & Fat Tony on the decks and Jodie even spinning a few sounds herself, while Johanna will be hosting as only she knows best, leaving the main “Fluro” arena in the very capable hands of Ben Kaye & JJ Clark, these two gems also seeing you guestlist lot in as smoothly as possible on the door. And talking of doors, WE “Fluro’s” open at that t-dance time of 6 p.m. this Sunday (8th April), running through till 2 a.m., single ticket entry available of course, priced at £18 both online at http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/08/we-party-london-easter-t-dance & at the usual Soho outlets, Prowler, Clone Zone & 50, as well as Ku Bar (Lisle & Frith St), while entry will be available on the door, naturally magnificently managed by Tom Fuller, but expect to pay more. And don’t forget that every great WE party has a pre-party and its Room Service this Thursday (5th April) that plays host, more info on this out at http://facebook.com/events/305906092809366/, while for further details on “Fluro” itself, go direct to http://wepartylondon.com/.
So to dessert, but what a plump pudding it is although while we may be billing it as the dessert in this three course clubbing collective, it actually has all the credentials for a massive mains meal of majesty, as the captivating collaboration that is As one, pulls together a band of brilliant brands that includes, Orange, Trade, Casalatina, Megawoof, Onyx, & TheMenWhoFellToEarth, all across the expanse is the duo of club spaces that now form the massive complex on South Lambeth Road that many call Fire, but actually includes the separate club Protocol, this new(ish) addition to the Orange Nation empire proving really popular with our straight cousins, not least that the swanky separate bar space & bespoke services fit the bill perfectly. So with The MenToFellTo Earth boys taking up Protocol’s intimate second space, Megawoof will be doing their best to steal the show in the Lightbox with Daz Saud & special guest Max Sanna, who played brilliantly b2b with studio recording partner Steve Pitron last weekend, so is very much in the groove and while Protocol is considered separate to Fire, it will be very much part of the action come Monday morning. But naturally it will be the three rooms of Fire that will be the main attractions, not least that the might of Trade, Orange Onyx & Casa Latina will be playing their part in this colossal collaboration and when you consider that the D.J. talent extends to the likes of Nick Tckerniak, Guy Williams, & Rosco flying the Trade flag, while rising star of the scene Junior Moura will head up the Casa team, supported by Doug Silva, Orange being represented by Fat Tony The Sharp Boys & Gonzalo Rivas and Onyx has gender bender’s Tasty Tim & Lady Lloyd on the decks. Plus, promoter Steve Sharp keen to point out that across this six room splendour (that includes the Protocol VIP space!) we can expect “…music ranges from pumping house, to deep and techy, commercial anthems, and so much more, with gogos, live performances, fire shows and special As One production…” and given what a simply superb job he did with the last party, giving the As One brand a fresh new feel with these added big & alternative brands, we are very much looking forward to this colossal collaboration to round off our Easter weekend in scintillating style. So, with hosts Chrissy Darling, Elektra Paris, Danny Boyce & Mauricio Ortiz looking after your every whim from doors opening to closing, these timings being from 11 p.m. through till 7 a.m., as with the other two in this trio of “The Big Ticket” treats, singular entry to As One is available, tickets priced at £18 on sale both online via http://orangenation.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-04/08/as-one-easter-sunday or in person by popping into Prowler, Clone, 50 & both Ku-Bar’s and while there will be tickets available on the door, due to the popularity of this event, expect to pay much more. However, we have spotted that online early birds for As One are still available, so get in quick & you can grab one for just £15, more info (should you need it available at http://facebook.com/events/323974380990951/.
So, that’s “The Big Ticket” offer and with brands Beyond, WE & As One in the package for just £40, you know it makes sense, especially when you consider that with free entry to Onyx “Holy Trinity” & A:M “Headliners” too, it’s definitely best to go BIG this Easter, our post “The Pricing Picture” coming up, re-enforcing this truly outstanding Orange Group offer. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Aaron Elder, Alan K, As One, Casalatina, Chrissy Darling, Doug Silva, Fat Tony, GSP, Guy Williams, Hifi Sean, Jamie Head, Jodie Harsh, Junior Moura, Kris Di Angelis, Megawoof, Nick Tcherniak, Onyx, Orange, Paulo Moreno, Raul Ortiz, Room Service, Steve Pitron, Steven Sharp, The Big Ticket, The Oli, The Sharp Boys, TheMenWhoFellToEarth, Tom Fuller, Trade, WE "Fluro", WE Party, WE Party London | 1 Comment »
With the news having filtered through to DM HQ that heavenly home to our favourite club of all time will be out of action for a while, this amidst the maddening rumour machine going into overdrive on the why’s & way for’s of Area’s three week closure, Disco Matt spins a positive light on the news & what The Orange Group have planned for Beyond as it takes up temporary residence over at sister venue Fire.
Brilliant Brand's Backyard On A Break
It is pretty much common knowledge to anyone that follows our reviews, our reports, our recommendations that there is one club that tops all others in our books, a brand that was born back in the early noughties & found a home in Vauxhall venue The Colosseum, a marriage that lasted just over five years. However, when the awesome afterhours disappeared off our clubbing calendar & radar, there was a real sense of loss in what had, for us become a weekly homage to its then heavenly home, indeed even being based out in Essex & then down in Kent, we still made the trip, pushing our own boundaries just like this brand did too. But, as we reported & reviewed at the time, like a phoenix rising from the ashes of its company part from Colosseum, this Sunday morning magnificence was to break new terrific territory as it found a new heavenly home in the spectacular shape of the amazing Area, a Vauxhall venue that, for us, cannot be beaten, not just in its own backyard, but right across the capital, nay across the globe. Yet the appeal of Area cannot easily be summed up in a simple sentence, although what we can say with total conviction is that it fits this brilliant brand like a glove, both going hand in hand with each other, just as DTPM did with Villa Stefano, Salvation did with Cafe De Paris & Trade did with Turnmills.
Bright & Beaming Beyond
Of course the brand we are talking about is Beyond and while we were charmed by its companionship with Colosseum, there is little doubt in our mind that in Area, this awesome afterhours has its most hypnotic & heavenly home, Beyond having very much broken the mould when it came to finding a new heavenly home that was better than the old, after all, Trade has never really been the same since Turnmills, Salvation only seems to feel right when in Cafe De Paris, while DTPM did its best at Fabric, although Villa will always remain its holy grail of a home for us. So, with Area being all about Beyond & Beyond all about Area, we have never really taken to the idea of it moving anywhere else, whether temporary or permanently, this blissful bond between brand & backyard seemingly unbreakable, we never that convinced that backtracking to Colosseum with the “Back To” parties was a majestic move, even linking it with Trade & calling the combination Ultimate, somehow muddying the wonderful Beyond waters. But what we cannot deny is that this amazing afterhours needs to keep pace with the continuous change that is part & parcel of the capitals clubbing circuit and so its heavenly home needs to do so too.
Awesome & Amazing Area
So, with news that Area will be out of action for a while certainly pricked up our ears, not least that we would be puzzled as to what would become of our favourite club during this short term suspension of services and, dispelling the ravenous rumour machine from certain quarters of the scene, we quickly decided to negate the negativity & propel the positivity, getting the straightforward storyline from the Orange Group horse’s mouth, we being reliably & resoundingly informed that, quote “…Area will be closed for the next three weeks to allow pre-planned refurbishments to take place…”, the improvements the team will be implementing having listened to you, the clubbing public, while they acknowledging that Area is in need of a nifty & nimble nip tuck. So what have they got planned?, Well, like any good surprise reveal, they are keeping much of it under wraps, although we have a sneaking suspicion that promoter Steven Sharp has posted a wish list with the powers that be that includes an improvement in the coatcheck facilities, having often acknowledged the need for increased capacity, particularly on special events & parties, this prolific promoter always having pit this part of the clubbing experience & journey very high on his list of priorities. So, we highly suspect that the main coatcheck space at the front of Area will be extended, that additional capacity will be sourced from underutilised spaces, while we are pretty sure that there will also be a spring like spruce & sparkle to aid the focus on the front entrance facelift, while a little birdie tells us that the refurb will include the much awaited opening & extension of the VIP area.
Fire In Beyond Focus
With no Beyond backyard for a trio of weeks, where does that leave our adorable & awesome afterhours? Well, as much as it pains us to accept, there is little choice for the promotions team but to pick up this brilliant brand & transport it across Vauxhall to Area’s sister venue Fire and while for Beyond purists like us, Fire on the face of it is not the fit we would favour, the blow is being superbly softened by an extra special “Midnight” event, this marking the first of several similar themed parties including Matinee which comes at you in two weeks time (more on that in a separate Weekend Focus post). As for Beyond this coming Sunday, well it naturally starts at midnight on Saturday (10th March), or as we prefer to call it zero o’clock on Sunday (11th), taking over all three rooms of the re-shaped & formed Fire, this format similar to Area’s spaces, although in a different layout, the lounge replacing the terrace, the mirrorarch replacing the chapel & one main room swapped for the other, while the outside space is at the rear rather than the front. That said, promoter Steven Sharp has told us of Fire, “…it will open a different set of options with the layout and it works extremely well with long parties such as the “Midnight”(twelve hour) format…” he adding that “…it will give the brand a new feel for our three special parties…”.
Italian Stallion
And for this first Beyond in Fire (we are beginning to get used to the sound!) Steven & the team welcome our very own Italian Stallion, Pagano, to the decks who, like Beyond, is riding a wonderful wave crest right now, his exposure Stateside going from strength to strength, while the playing ground that is Europe sees him feature for all sorts of parties & brands, including La Demence in Brussels, Cologne’s Sexy & Lab in Paris among many more,. But it is back in blighty that the man has been simply huge, not least for Trade, having featured large in the recent “A Tainted Love Affair” event which has spurned his worldwide chart topping compilation “Trade – The Dark Side” which looks set to eclipse even his hugely successful “Digital Generation” releases. And having played out for Beyond before, although like everyone this coming Sunday, for the first time for the brand at Fire (well there was Ultimate), Mr Sharp say’s of this prolific player, “…Pagano always brings a different dimension to the brand when he plays…” he also commenting that “…there is a lot of energy to his sound which is addictive on the dancefloor…”, we certainly being able to vouch for that have seen scores of storming sets both here in London & across in Europe.
Amazing Alan
So Pagano is the Beyond “Midnight” come Sunday morning headliner, he being joined by a veritable feast of the brand’s all-star residents including Alan K who will no doubt also star in the main room, while new boy Paul Moreno gets to play at Fire for the first time, he being joined by The Sharp Boys (probably just George though as Steven has the club to promote & manage). As for other main room residents, well Steve Pitron is currently on vacation so, sadly, he won’t be there (no rollercoaster emotional ride??, no tears?? how will we cope?!?!), so it is possible that either D’Johnny or Guy Williams will feature, while the mirrorarch (the Fire chapel space version) is sure to sport Paul Christian & Hifi Sean, Fat Tony & Jonny M confirmed to play too, possibly in the main space or more likely in the lounge. And given this amazing array of all-stars, Steven is confident of “…a kaleidoscope of only the finest contemporary tunes in the land…” the promise of more guest D.J.’s (The Oli?, Jamie Head?…pleeeeease) to send you soaring right from midnight start to midday finish. Add to the music the much improved Fire lighting & effects, the team having recently employed those resplendent roof rockets that were always an Area trademark, that along with the huge LED wall behind the main room D.J. booth, a superb stage space for Elektra Paris, Shaun Capewell & their cavorting crew to “…blow your minds throughout the party with their poses and routines…” and we are pretty much prepared to see Beyond in this new temporary light, even if we are far from fans of Fire in comparison to Area & the “Midnight” event format against the age old & (in our view) much better morning sessions.
Elektra & Shaun
So, before we take a brief look at Beyond in the coming weeks, let’s look at the detail of this Beyond “Midnight – With Pagano At Fire” and a reminder that this is a full twelve hour event, doors opening at the witching hour this Saturday (10th March) and the event running through to a planned midday finish on Sunday (11th), those doors being of the Lightbox variety, that is in South Lambeth Place (just past Starbucks), the terrific Tom Fuller on the door ensuring your smooth entry as always. Plus, as a special thank you to both to loyal Beyond regulars & all those that attended the awesome WE “Pharaoh” afterparty last weekend at Area when, in the words of its sponsor, “…Beyond rocked like never before, it was really busy with the best crowd in town…”, there is a special free entry offer for those getting their dancing shoes on & in through the doors before 1 a.m. with a valid flyer, ad or Facebook invite, while for others, advance £10 tickets are available at the usual Soho outlets, prowler, Clone Zone & 50, or online at http://clubtickets.com, failing which you can pay on the door at prices £12 with flyer, ad, etc or £15 without. And with your host Danny Boyce pampering to your every need from within, this should be a night & a morning to remember, so one not to be missed, more details & that all important FB invite available via http://facebook.com/events/260650157347131/.
Superb & Shining Star Steven
Now to Beyond in the coming weeks and as we hinted early, this weekend will signal a short sequence of extended events in Fire, although this awesome afterhours will be taking a rest for one week on 24th March, when it gives way to the massive Matinee “Midnight” which has been billed as the biggest & best yet, while Beyond itself will be itching to bounce back in its old backyard, Area of course, the following weekend (Sunday 1st April). And to coincide with the improvements to Area, Beyond will be extending its opening times, an all new & regular 3 a.m. start to become the norm (remember the brilliant “Belief” bashes?!), the brand very much stamping its authority on Sunday mornings, while there are more exciting parties ahead, Steven Sharp stating “…it’s an exciting time for clubland in general with Easter on the near horizon, then the diamond jubilee & the Olympics, meaning there will be lots of themed parties & special events, this season of splendour being kicked off with Beyond “Berlin”, when we will transform Area with prolific production, superb costumes & special performances – think Cabaret with Liza Minnelli…”. Add to this the likelihood of another of those “Super Size” events over the Easter weekend, as part of the very popular “Big Ticket” package and the flowers of Beyond spring are looking very rosy indeed.
So, while Area rests & rejuvenates it’s all change to Fire for Beyond from this weekend and we will be there to see it all, no doubt nibble size review tweeting our way through the whole lot, which, of course you can follow by going to http://twitter.com/discomatt, while if you happen to see us, please do come say hi, but remember that to “Be There!” you need to “Go There!” (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends, Reports | Tags: Alan K, Area, Beyond, D'Johnny, Elekra Paris, Fat Tony, Fire, Guy Williams, Hifi Sean, Jamie Head, Jonny M, Pagano, Paul Christian, Paul Moreno, Shaun Capewell, Steve Pitron, Steven Sharp, The Oli, The Sharp Boys, Tom Fuller | 1 Comment »
It ruled the clubbing waves throughout the nineties, continued to make an indelible impression throughout the noughties and, having come of age back in October, Trade starts the Olympic year with a prolific party that looks set to re-write its own unwritten rules, as from the tunnels of Turnmills, the arches of Arcadia & the modesty of Ministry, it hits the enormity of Electric, Disco Matt delving deep into the delectation that is “A Tainted Love Affair” with this brilliant brand.
Electrifyingly Exciting
With the capitals clubbing circuit the magnificent melting pot that it is, with the passing of every year comes a bevy of brands that either sink or swim with the tremendous tide change that seems to continually sweep the scene, all this meaning that a mere handful of hopefuls become semi-permanent placements in the ever changing cycle of clubbing fads & fancies that are an undeniable feature of the diversity that is London. So, looking at those heavenly happenings that occupy a space in our hearts, we obviously count our favourite club of all time, Beyond, right up at the top of our select list, while brands such as Matinee, Orange, Later, A:M, & Hard On! rank neatly below, all having the same thing in common, being brands & events that have stood the test of time. Then, more recent times have seen the likes of Lovechild, SuperMartXe & WE find a prominent place in our dancing devotions, although with two seemingly sidelined, while the third rides a wave crest, the jury is out as to whether they will also attain the test of time status of their clubbing counterparts.
Towering Trade
However, there is one club that, undoubtedly has passed that time test with flying colours & also has reached a prominent place, the nineties seeing its occupy virtually every weekend of ours, while the noughties saw it continue to make a splash on the scene with a sequence of special events, just last year the club celebrating a virtually unrivalled 21 years in the business. We are, of course, talking about Trade, also known as the mothership of clubbing, the trendsetter that is, in reality, made the capital’s afterhours clubbing scene what it is today. Yet, having lost its historical seat, the legendary Turnmills in Farringdon, the legendary brand that is Trade has hotfooted it around the capital, landing on the likes of Arcadia, Ministry Of Sound, The Egg & The Renaissance Rooms, even teaming up with Fire for a trio of Orange/Trade treats, while the recently formed brand, Ultimate, has seen our favourite club Beyond, join forces with Trade, the second showing taking place this weekend. But, Trade continues to sport itself on the scene and in Brixton Electric has found a new spot to spin, the much talked about “A Tainted Love Affair” event taking place this Saturday (11th Feb).
Terrific Trade Mark Touch
So, naturally we could let this momentous moment in the scene schedule pass without focussing on this Trade affair and giving our take on how the change from the tunnels of Turnmills, the arches of Arcadia & the modesty of Ministry will transpose into the enormity of Electric, a theatre style venue that, on paper, is not a natural fit to the Trade style of party pitching. Now, for those of you that were around for Brava back in August will realise, this venue is Brixton, formerly known as The Fridge, didn’t have the most magnificent of starts, the place far from finished, so what was supposed to be the bright new future of clubbing in Brava, a collaborative concept between the promotions teams of Beyond & WE, fell much more that a furlong short of expectations. However, with the Orange Electric event in November, the tenfold improvements were evident for all to see and so it was just a matter of when as opposed to if, that we would see another showing by one brand or another at this iconic venue. So while it came as no surprise that Trade would be the next brand to brave it in Brixton (we actually thought it should have been Matinee), given the venues this mothership of clubbing has chosen before, Electric was a little surprising, not least due to the enormity of the main room & the obstacles that this will clearly present the team when deploying the usual Trade production. That said, in terms of size alone, the fit is perfect, as Trade events usual attract equally enormous numbers and “A Tainted Love Affair” looks like continuing that trend, while the team have promised that as far as Electric is concerned, they will be “…transforming the main room with new state of the art production, effects and visuals…”.
Towering Talent Mr Tcherniak
All that said, for us, Trade has always been about the music, yes Trade Mark’s artwork, those mystifying mobiles & other production bits are part of the picture, but without that trademark music, Trade would not be the brilliant brand it is. And for this “Tainted Love Affair” event, the team have pulled in some heavyweights, not least our very own Italian Stallion, Pagano, while other entrants across the two spaces include the legend that is Fat Tony, lite lounge boy Guy Williams & Trade iconess Lady Bianca, while newish boys Ross Homson also features. However, as far as the headlining main room D.J. is concerned, we leave it to the Trade collective in positioning this premier player when they say, “…embodying the club’s forward-thinking music policy Trade has invited special guest Italian Techno DJ UTO KAREM. Who in just a short period of time has produced hit after hit with forward thinking dance tracks that are fast becoming staples of DJ’s everywhere. His productions have found him fans that include the likes of Dubfire, Richie Hawtin, John Acquaviva, Marco Carola, Chis Liebling and many more…”. All sounds impressive & we are sure he will be, but for us, the star of the show looks like being Nick Tcherniak, the man who stole the spotlight at both Orange/Trade on Xmas day & also on the Trade room at As One, but more than that, as for this “A Tainted Love Affair” event, our Mr T has laid down the first official Trade podcast, which is an absolute corker, very much hinting towards what to expect from his set, so well worth a listen & download at http://tradetheoriginal.podomatic.com/entry/2012-01-31T07_29_52-08_00 (apparently also available via Orange Nation’s podcast page, why?????).
Perfect Poster
That’s the music so now to the detail and this Trade “A Tainted Love Affair” in a nod to Valentine’s Day, takes place this coming Saturday (11th February) at The Brixton Electric, doors opening at 11 pm. and the event running though to a planned 6 a.m. finish. This is a ticketed event, advance $£15 ones available online at http://www.clubtickets.com/gb/2012-02/11/trade-a-tainted-love-affair, while Soho outlets Prowler, Clone Zone & 50 are selling the hard versions at the same price (sadly all early birds went ages ago), while we think you will be able to get entry on the door, although expect to pay much more (we reckon £20), so you know what to do, that is buy before you try. And naturally, this “A Tainted Love Affair” has an afterparty, Ultimate seeing brilliant brand Beyond join forces with its afterhours auntie at Area from 6 a.m. Sunday morning (12th Feb), joint tickets for both events available via that online link and at those Soho outlets. Plus, we have to mention that this event also marks the official launch of Pagano’s “Official” Trade compilation (it’s not a podcast folks!!) “Trade – The Dark Side”, we hoping that a privileged copy will be coming our way, although watch this space for the download link, we suspect via Kult or Beatport. (probably http://toolboxdigitalshop.com/ too), with more info (should you need it, via the events page at http://facebook.com/events/186695398094718/ or a click away at http://tradeuk.net.
So that pretty much sews up the deal of the dynamic do and needless to say, the music is going to be just awesome, the team will surely pull out all the stops and Brixton Electric will be packed, packed, packed, the “…often copied but never equalled…” Trade sure to thrill from start to finish, meaning that you simply have to “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: Brixton Electric, Fat Tony, Guy Williams, Lady Bianca, Nick Tcherniak, Pagano, Ross Homson, Trade, Trade Mark, Ultimate | No Comments »
With Siberian winds & the threat of snow gripping the streets of London this weekend, the thermostat has been turned up to the max across the capitals clubbing circuit, Disco Matt checking out the hottest action across Soho, Vauxhall & Shoreditch with his Best Bites choices of where to be & be seen on the scene.
While we may be coughing & spluttering our way through this current working week, confining ourselves to the keyboard & away from the peddles has meant we are back in the driving seat with our weekend recommendations. So, while the last one was busy enough what with the return of Matinee, the superb Sharp Tidy event, a breathtaking Beyond and that special back-to-back set from Jamie Head & Mikey D at Later (and that was just Vauxhall), this weekend looks like measuring up to be just as good, some new starts & some old favourites vying for our attention. And having given away a special bite to Blitz, here we pick out our choice three, one each from Soho, Vauxhall & Shoreditch, we also peeping through the looking glass to some upcoming events that have made the DM dance diary.
In Love With Profile
So to Soho first and we were initially pointing in the direction of Charing Cross, but with so much going on across at Wardour St, it had to be Profile & Lo-Profile that got our Best Bite pick again this weekend, not least that our own temperatures (and something else) were risen on Tuesday over a sociable drink, one of the gorge new(ish) barmen very much tickling our fancy. So naturally, Profile gets our full-on attention first, not just because of the delicious treats behind the bar, but plenty in front of them, not least in the D.J. talent that will be taking to the Profile decks this weekend, tonight (Thurs 2nd) seeing the pint sized powerhouse that is Renato Porto sorting the pre Society sounds, while tomorrow (Fri 3rd) sees favourite & our premier protégé player, Zach Burns, turn out the tunes & turn up the heat, very much getting you in playful mood for the saucy going’s on downstairs. But with your Saturday being superbly steered by none other than Jamie Head, we can’t think of a better place to be in Soho between 8 & 11.30 p.m. when the boys bang out the beats. However, with a heavenly happy hour that includes cocktail pitchers at just £15 & 2 4 1 double spirits that along with a food offer that makes us lick our lips with hungry joy, the comprehensive bistro menu extending to lunch specials with two main courses for just £12, the now famous Tuesday steak night, & 2 4 1 burgers on Wednesdays, while watch this space for news on a new “Masala Monday” offer & for Profile’s special “Valentines Day” feel the love meal for two offer and there’s definitely a lot going on at our Best Bar 2011 winner, more info on all these offers & happenings available at http://profilesoho.com.
Spyce Up Your Playtime Life
To Lo-Profile now and like it’s little sister upstairs, there’s a lot going on here too, home-grown brands “Society” and “Playtime” both doing extremely well, the former welcoming Tony English & Fabio Luiggi to the decks tonight (Thurs 2nd Feb) while the real focus lands on “Playtime” at its host Jay Roberts, this Friday night foray currently one of the (in our view “THE”) best in town, attracting capacity crowds week-in week out, the playful element extended beyond the dancefloor & the podiums into Jay’s backroom boudoir, tomorrow night (Fri 3rd Feb) sure to be no different, Nick Evans & Alessandro on deck duty from 10 till 4 a.m., while Mr Roberts welcomes playful boys Martin Kandra & Florent Leturmy to spice up proceedings and in Jay’s are boys “…who are gonna show you what real men like…” (boudoir here we come!). But the “Playtime” playing field has just got a huge extra pitch in the form of Europe no less, Jay & his porn-tastic team of Gabriel Cross & Danny King, along with D.J. & cheeky boy Steven Artis kicking off their tour of the continent with a trip to gay Paris tomorrow night (Sat 4th Feb) when Playtime takes over Spyce Bar in the French capital’s Le Marais quarter, while the favour is returned on 25th Feb when Spyce land in on London at the new Lo-Profile “ClubNation” Saturday (more of that coming up). Indeed talking of Saturday, in advance of “ClubNation’s” launch next week, when they welcome international megastar D.J. Wayne G to the decks, this sees “Global Blitz” boy’s Brent Nicholls & Paul Heron play for the opposition, Paul hotfooting it from Charing Cross in time for his 1 a.m. deck date, while the first half is down to Mr Nicholls and with Lo-Profile’s doors opening at 10 p.m. on each of the three nights & running to 3 a.m., 4 a.m. & 5 a.m. respectively, door entry varying from anything between £3 & £8, check out http://loprofile.com for more details.
The Legend That Is Lottie
So onward to Vauxhall and while a certain weekly rag may be avoiding them, we certainly are not as The Orange Group top our pile of premier picks once again this weekend, although with so much going on, it was a difficult choice to decide which of the six club events to focus on here. Would it be Onyx, Beyond Midnight, Later or Orange?, each worthy of our attention, and while we will be devoting a special post to beyond, when it came down to the final choice, A:M squeezed out the others, not least as this weekend (well the whole of February actually) looks like being a corker for promoter (ours of 2011 in fact) Steven Sharp & the A:M team, as they welcome iconic D.J. Lottie to the decks, very much headlining what has come a weekly “Headliners” happening down at Fire now that Mr Sharp is in charge, his extensive contacts within the scene & D.J. circuit, bringing some exciting names to the fore. As for Lottie, well having played with some of the finest and indeed mightiest names in the business, Steven rates her as “…a headliner who we are just so excited to be welcoming to our gracious “A:M Headliner” decks…”. And for good reason, as she has played alongside the likes of Daft Punk, Felix Da’ Housecat & Josh Wink, as well as Layo & Bushwacka, all recognised as masters in the art of tech & electro house music. But more than that, Lottie has appeared on the covers of magazines (how does the song go???) including Time Out & I D.J., while the London clubbing scene will know her as the co-founder of the fantastic Friday nighter Gallery, that on top of filling the shoes of Radio 1’s Pete Tong for his Friday night slot, an accolade indeed meaning, as Steven rightly say’s “…we have the red carpet out…”. But with an all-star cast of A:M residents that include D’Johnny, Guy Williams, Jamie Head, Fat Tony & David Jimenez, plus with door hostess Hrh Minty & club host Danny Boyce, this is one A:M, you won’t want to miss, doors opening at Fire from 3 a.m. this Saturday (4th Feb), the club running through until a monumental & mad 11 a.m. finish, entry a mere £8 before 5 a.m. (make sure you grab a Boyz ad or an A:M flyer) or £12 for others, we reckon it’s a small price to pay for a headliner like Lottie, more info out at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties while pencil the 18th & 25th Feb in your dance diaries as Steve Thomas & Pagano respectively fill the A:M Headliner boots.
Earthlings Excitement
So across we go to Shoreditch and reigning supreme in our choice picks is the City Rd splendour East Bloc which has a lot going on this weekend, Sunday seeing it open its doors on a regular basis for the first time, while two giants of the venue’s weekly come monthly schedule return to serve up plenty of alternative action. So, like the best of award ceremonies, let’s talk about the happenings in reverse order, although there is method in our madness as this means we focus on Sunday (5th Feb) first, this the new entrant to the East Bloc clubbing calendar, as the new “Bloc Party” launches on a weekly basis following the highly successful pre New Year event in December, although this first outing will see Joelle Hyland & BOY London take over with models a-plenty sporting their wares & and loads of limited editions items on sale. But the music will also be doing the talking & walking (well dancing actually, as with the best in RnB, Hip Hop Basement & funky house from the likes of Kartel Brown, Jeffrey Hinton & Miguel Dare, this is alternative with a capital A, hosts Mark-Ashley Dupé, Richard Logins , Jake Cook & Kwame Suaavve taking care to make sure to have a brilliant time, East Bloc opening its doors from 10 p.m. till 4.30 a.m., entry free until 12.30 a.m., & £5 thereafter, more info up at http://facebook.com/events/320359361335631/. So we come to Saturday (4th Feb) and the truly terrific “TheMenWhoFell2Earth” which returns for its monthly meet, the team exclaiming “…Right then, are you all done with the de-toxing? Good. Well here’s a night out for those of you who think it’s about time you had one and those of you who never stopped anyway…”, which sums up this alternative antic better than we could in as many words. And as the TheMenWhoFell2Earth beam back from outer space on another earth bound party mission, they bring with them favourite fella Erol Sabadosh, with internationalist Francine Bacon from Berlin, both who will fill your musical boots with barnstorming beats of the punk funk, dirty disco & remixed rock N roll in room one, while over in the second space it’s all about “Sink The Pink” who describe their “Boy Box” band in the form of Hot Fuss & James Phillips as a duo that will “…whip you into a musical melting pot, pulling out the trashiest, dirtiest, most shameless music ever made in one dark, sweaty room full of fun..”. Well, enough said really and if you haven’t got the idea by now, go check out http://themenwhofell2earth.co.uk for more info while East Bloc welcomes this outer space outrageousness from 10.30 p.m. till 6 a.m., entry a mere £8 on the door. So that leaves Friday and another weekly session of Larry Tee’s madcap meet, “Super Electro Party Machine”, electro music the backdrop and played out by Larry & guests who this week include Tania & Calum’s for the debutant party (don’t ask!) in room one, while Nan Atichatpong & friends sort the sounds in the second space, this another 10 p.m. till 4 a.m. event, all for just a fiver and with plenty of drinks offers to boot, further detail on this “…coolest of East End weekly…” out at http//facebook.com/groups/233646343355718/.
Well, that’s it for our Best Bites choices for another weekend, but with part two of our weekend newsletter coming up, namely our “Short Shouts”, fear not if you haven’t yet had your fancy tickled, as we have plenty more offerings up our scene sleeve. However we reckon that there is definitely a “Lottie” going on right here and with our premier picks including “Playtime”, “A:M” & “The MenWhoFell2Earth” you have at least three exceptional excuses to be seen on the scene, naturally making sure that you “Go There! Be There!”. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Beyond, D'Johnny, David Jimenez, East Bloc, Fat Tony, Guy Williams, Hrh Minty, Jamie Head, Jeffrey Hinton, Larry Tee, Later, Lo-Profile, Nick Evans, Orange, Paul Heron Brent Nicholls, Profile, Renato Porto, Steve Sharp, Super Electro Party Machine, The Orange Group, TheMenWhoFell2Earth, Tony English, Zach Burns | No Comments »
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21 Mar 2013 | 0 Comments
Reviews – “Superb Scene Shift Start” – Covert “A New Beginning” – Saturday 16th March – Full Size Review
With much promise posed ahead of its “A New Beginning” event and with plenty of talk about Covert both championing change across the capitals clubbing circuit, was Saturday’s party the proof of the pudding in the eating, what was our verdict on this gigantic gathering and how much more did ...
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13 Mar 2013 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Charitable Clubbing Change Champions” – Covert “A New Beginning” – Saturday 16th March – Weekend Focus Special
Hailed as “A New Beginning” for the capitals clubbing circuit in an event that brings together like minded club owners, promoters, D.J.’s & scene figureheads, we dive into the dynamic detail of this magnificent meet with commentary & links a-plenty. Having effectively stood back and watched the splendid ...
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6 Nov 2012 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Brilliantly Blended Or Badly Buckling Brands – Matinee vs. Beyond “Ghetto Fabulous” – Saturday 10th November – Weekend Focus
Despite a complete lack of PR and serious question marks over the D.J. line up, we throw our Weekend Focus attention on Matinee, which returns to London this Saturday, once again going head to head with Beyond in a towering ten hour happening that, however, leaves us asking lots of ...
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7 Apr 2012 | 0 Comments
Picks – “Classics Catalogue” – Beyond “Midnight – XLsior Pre-Party” – Sat/Sun 7th/8th April – Pick Of The Day
With all roads not only leading but looking to start here, Disco Matt chooses Beyond “Midnight” which takes place tonight/tomorrow (Sat/Sun 7th/8th April) at Area in Vauxhall, as his pick of the day, not least as DM’s premier player, Steve Pitron, will be delivering a captivating catalogue of classics in ...
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5 Apr 2012 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Appetising Alternative Trio Of Treats” – Discotec, Fiction & Dish – Thurs 5th, Fri 6th & Sun 8th April – Easter Extra Bites
Having covered “The Big Easter Weekend Ticket” trio of treats, it’s time to let another appetising trio of treats take to the DM spotlight, three exceptional events that deserve to have their Easter say, as the weekend hails the return of two brilliant brands form our partying past, well as ...
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4 Apr 2012 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Orange Easter Others” – Gravity “Bad Thursday”, Onyx “Holy Trinity”, A:M “Easter Headliners”, Later “WE Warm Up” & “Extra”, Beyond “Recharged” – Thurs 5th to Mon 9th April – Easter Extra Bites Special
While the emphasis on “The Big Easter Weekend Ticket” having propelled it’s trio of treats to the fore, there is little doubt that The Orange Group have plenty more on offer, a collective of clubs that carries you from Thursday to Monday, Disco Matt biting into the seven other Orange ...
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2 Apr 2012 | 1 Comment
Recommends – “Towering Three Course Clubbing Collective” – The Big Easter Weekend Ticket – Beyond, WE “Fluro” & As One – Saturday, Sunday & Monday 7th, 8th & 9th April – Weekend Focus Special
For scrumptious starters there is an ample appetiser of awesome afterhours autonomy, followed by a majestic mains mountain of scintillating Spanish supremacy, this three course clubbing colossus picture completed by a dream of a dessert, cream of the crop filled captivating clubbing collaboration. Yes, it’s Easter, which can only mean ...
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7 Mar 2012 | 1 Comment
Reports & Recommends – “Brilliant Brand’s Backyard On A Break” – Beyond & Area – Wednesday 7th March – Special Feature
With the news having filtered through to DM HQ that heavenly home to our favourite club of all time will be out of action for a while, this amidst the maddening rumour machine going into overdrive on the why’s & way for’s of Area’s three week closure, Disco Matt spins ...
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8 Feb 2012 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Electrifying Excitement” – Trade “A Tainted Love Affair” – Saturday 11th February – Weekend Focus
It ruled the clubbing waves throughout the nineties, continued to make an indelible impression throughout the noughties and, having come of age back in October, Trade starts the Olympic year with a prolific party that looks set to re-write its own unwritten rules, as from the tunnels of Turnmills, the ...
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2 Feb 2012 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “There’s a Lottie Going On” – Weekend Best Bites – Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th February – Newsletter (Part One)
With Siberian winds & the threat of snow gripping the streets of London this weekend, the thermostat has been turned up to the max across the capitals clubbing circuit, Disco Matt checking out the hottest action across Soho, Vauxhall & Shoreditch with his Best Bites choices of where to be ...
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