Posts Tagged ‘Ku Bar’
July 29, 2011 | 
Author It was just last weekend that we took a serious look at our Weekend Recommendations newsletter, our format of “Best Bites & Short Shouts” having been running for close on six months, although the concept behind it for much longer. However, as we detailed in our report, “Best Bites On A Break” (direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reports-best-bites-on-a-break-weekend-recommends-newsletter-review-saturday-23rd-july/), we questioned the possible favouritism we were adopting by choosing certain bars, clubs & events over others and in so doing decided that, for this newsletter at least, we would trial a new look & a new direction, as our title here suggest, making it less exclusive & more inclusive, covering more by mentioning less & setting aside our preferences for other posts like our Weekend Focus & Extra Bites reports.
As a result, the new, or should we say, trial newsletter is here, our “Bar Bites & Club Cuts” aimed at running you through what’s on offer across Soho Vauxhall & elsewhere, but in the Short Shout rather than the Best Bite format, yet still retaining that element of where we think you should be & be seen on the scene. So, let’s crack on, although with the format as new to us as it is to you, hold on tight as we whistle-stop tour you through the highlights of what’s on offer this weekend.
Wardour St Wonders
To Soho first & Profile Bar, always a good way to start your weekend, this one being no exception as tomorrow night (Fri 29th) Jamie Hammond makes a welcome return to the scene, warming up your weekend from 8 p.m., while on Saturday its scene stalwart Rob Sykes’s turn to do the same. Now, don’t forget the happy hour, which runs daily from 4 p.m. till 7 (all night on Monday), while their food offer just has to be sampled, full details of the menu & other offerings available via their website at http://profilesho.com.
Downstairs at Lo-Profile it’s another “Society” Friday, the team welcoming Nathan Six & D’Johnny to the decks, so expect plenty of beefy beats to match these music making men’s physique’s, while the go-go dancers will also pop your eyes out (maybe something else too!), while on Saturday we hear cheeky Czech, Andrea Drudikova, is playing hostess with the moistest, sorry mostest, the club having a real Beyond flavour to it with Gonzalo Rivas & Mikey D on the decks., so surely a night not to be missed. With doors opening both nights at 11 p.m. & the club running through till 4 a.m., entrance is £8, while more details on these & other events can be found at http://loprofile.com.
To Rupert Street and having celebrated their 15th birthday last weekend, its business as usual this, D.J. duties going to main resident Alessandro Londra which picks up both Friday (29th) & Sunday (31st), while he is sandwiched by Brent Nicholls on Saturday night, both Friday & Saturday’s kicking off from 9 p.m. through till midnight, whereas Sunday is a little earlier from 7.30 p.m. till 10.30 p.m. With food served during the day, every day, plus a tasty champagne offer from 5 p.m. till 8 p.m., it’s worth starting early, more details out at http://rupertstreet.com.
Cute Ku
Down to Ku-Bar, the Lisle St one, and the weekend highlight is once again tomorrow night (Fri 29th) as resident The Very Miss Dusty O hosts another heat of their “D.J. Quest 2011” competition, this being the right same place that the delectable DouGuim came to fame. Revving up the rhythms from 10 p.m. through till 3 a.m. expects plenty of cute lads & their admirers, while Sunday’s “Hit Factory” with Lady Lloyd is also worth a look in, as it Lisle St’s dinky little sister bar on Frith St is attracting quite a following, not least as they have the most gorge set of barmen around, as well as D.J.’s on duty right across the weekend. Check out http://ku-bar.co.uk for more info.
Now to The Shadow Lounge, which re-opened on Monday following an extensive re-ft in time for its 10th birthday bash which takes place tonight (Thurs 28th), this being the official re-opening and sure to attract the scene glitterati as well as a host of special VIP celebrity guests & the lion’s share of the press (although not us sadly!). With Friday (29th) seeing the return of regular night “Therapy” and the ever popular “Inferno” on Saturday (30th) with Andrew Elmore back too, Sunday (31st) sees a new east meets west night kicking off from 6 p.m. & running through till midnight, so plenty going on in the new era of Shadow Lounge, details of which are out at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
What Do You Wear To Bed?
So that’s our bar bites for Soho, what about our club cuts?, well it would be fair to say Soho is no longer renowned for full on clubbing, although just on the edge at Cafe De Paris, Jodie Harsh’s “Circus” roils into town for its annual pyjama party and one looking every bit as outrageously fabulous as last year. With Kris Di Angelis, Jim Warboy & Jodie herself providing the slumber styled soundtrack, expect the followers of fashion to dress down into their bedroom wear which could even mean the odd naked torso or two, while hosts aplenty will make sure all your dreams come true tomorrow night (Fri 29th), more info on this exceptional event out at http://thisiscircus.com.
Right down to Vauxhall and there’s lots happening this weekend, not least some new nights & special events to grab your attention. So let’s head to Barcode first who have first bite at the new cherry with the launch of “React Now”, an old skool, nu skool party with a D.J. line up of superhero’s that includes icons Blu Peter, Princess Julia, Rich B, Jon Dennis, Mark Westhenry & Jo Publik among many more. Plus, with the launch tomorrow night (Fr1 29th) being free entry, this should see Barcode back packed & pumping, while Saturday’s remain as popular as ever, this week seeing Micky Galliano, Steve Artis, Elliot J Brown & Mattias masterminding the music, so plenty of great names to conjure with, more info on this Vauxhall watering hole come club out at http://bar-code.co.uk.
Now to the Orange Group and as usual they have a breathtaking schedule of parties right across the weekend, for us kicking off with Onyx tomorrow night (Fri 29th) when they hold the 2nd part of their birthday “Double Bill”, this one seeing Area transformed into a beach oasis, welcoming party goers to dress in swimwear & the like, the hot, hot, hot go-go’s definitely leading the way in that department. Music wise, special guest Gonzalo Rivas takes to the main room decks, supported by lee Harris & Jc Christopher, while its tech in the terrace & pop in the chapel. With doors opening at 10 p.m. & free entry until midnight (grab a flyer though), not to mention special drinks offers, it seems birthdays don’t get better, more info out at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Double Whammy Delight
Onward and to Sunday morning when Beyond have their double say, holding a “Double Whammy” party which basically rolls entry to this awesome afterhours in with Later afterwards, which has its usual session at Fire on Sunday afternoon. Back to beyond and you can expect the lion’s share of the clubs all-star D.J. residents, including The Sharp Boys, Mike D, Paul Christian, The Oil & Fat Tony, while main man Steve Pitron rests up before his return the following weekend. Advance tickets are definitely the way to go if you don’t want to queue or burn a huge hole in your pocket, as they come in at just £10 from with http://clubtickets.com or from the usual Soho outlets, while make sure you get that stamp for Later afterwards as the forecast for Sunday is looking sun, sun, sun all the way.
But hang on we hear you say, we though Later was hitting the high seas? Well, yes it is, as The Later “Summer Boat Party” takes place too, this more of an exclusive offering as the good ship Fire has a limited capacity of just 250. Now we covered this special event in an Extra Bites post (out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-setting-sail-on-sunday-later-summer-boat-party-sunday-31st-july-weekend-extra-bites/) but suffice to say, with The Thames looking like a mill pond on Sunday, you won’t need strong sea legs to cope with this club cruise with a difference, so best you get your hands on one of the last remaining tickets at http://clubtickets.com/gb/2011-07/31/later-boat-party and join host Mauricio Ortiz along with D.J.’s Jamie Head & Junior as this will definitely be a summer highlight not to miss.
Sunday Service
Then when the good ship Fire disembarks, its straight back to Vauxhall for new club night launch “Blessed” which takes the place of Booster at Area. Aimed at a slightly more upmarket crowd, Area will see the terrace bar transformed into a relaxing chill-out zone with table service, great quality drinks & that all important link to the outside space, while the music worshipping will take place in the aptly named chapel room, D.J.’s Fat Tony, Mikey D & DouGuim head up a residency team that includes Booster’s Ferno & Matt King. Having covered to detail in our post “New Times Two” at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-new-times-two-blessed-le-boy-sunday-31st-july-friday-5th-august-weekend-focus-special/, suffice to say, all Later party goers (boat & terra firmer included) get free entry to “Blessed” , which runs from 7 p.m. till midnight, leading neatly to Orange afterwards.
Looking slightly further afield and another new night launches on Saturday (30th), this time at The Eagle, who host “Frisky”, a concept brought to the scene by the peeps behind Megawoof & Funkarama (that will be Daz & Diddy then), this new venture serving up sounds akin to Chicago house & NYC old skool, as well as more modern tech by the likes of Leonardo Glovibes, Nico de Ceglia & Astroboy, the Eagle crew throwing in a free bbq for good measure. With “Frisky” framed by regular nights Tonker on Friday (29th) & Horse meat Disco on Sunday (31st), check out their website at http://eaglelondon.co.uk for more details.
No Vauxhall coverage would be complete without mentioning the venerable institution that is The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT), who have another classic weekend in store, not least as their “Anthem Old Skool Renuion” takes place tomorrow (Fri 29th), with Wayne G, Porl Young & Steve B turning out uplifting NRG, trance & heavenly house hits that made this club a Saturday must in the late 90’s & early 00’s, while “Duckie” takes over on Saturday, followed by S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out on Sunday (31st), more info out at http://thervt.org.uk.
East Bloc Excess
Right to our alternative choices and first to Shoreditch at The East Bloc who have a massive weekend in store, its star player being Gutterslut, who return to this Shoreditch spot on Saturday (30th), resplendent from their superb showing at Summer Rites three weeks ago, with a prolific party that will see favourites Per Q.X., Nic Fisher & Miss MC Crystal joined by special guests Musisclove Makers in the rave room, while GS’s Ralf Obergal will also feature alongside James Phillips & Will Viper in the second space, so a definitely must for way out wackiness followers. Add to that, another new night on the scene, as East Bloc brings “May’s Buckled Up & Ready For Something Dirty” tomorrow (Fri 29th) along with “Ponystep” which takes up residency at East Bloc on Sunday (31st) and this vibrant venue to certainly proving the place to be out east at the moment, more details of the weekly happenings available at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Heading south and The Brixton Clubhouse are creating a bit of a stir on the scene and with the weather perking up this weekend look like coming into their own with that terrific two tiered outside terrace space that is its usp. And with Steven Geller’s “Bodyshakers” having chosen to hang its hat here on Friday’s, tomorrow (29th) will see it return with guests Steve Thomas & Daniel Stone joining Mr Geller on the decks, while on Saturday (30th) the man returns with Daniel for another late night/early morning session called “Crunch”. However, it’s Sunday (31st) that will steal much of the spotlight, as the scene sees the return of club promoter Logan Schmitz, who holds the first of his summer private parties, “Up” returning to the venue that was Dex when it was last held, Per QX included in the D.J. line up which will also see Tony English spin selective sounds. Now, this is strictly invite only, so make sure you check your e-mail inbox, details of all other happenings at The Brixton Clubhouse available at http://thebrixtonclubhouse.com.
Magic Mag
Now, in the spirit of the “inclusive nature of this new style newsletter, here are some short shouts for other offerings across the scene in Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere, very much depicting what a diverse yet dynamic scene we find ourselves within. So, other options for Friday (29th) include Popstarz at The Den, G.A.Y’s “Camp Attack” at Heaven, A:M at Fire, , “Discolicious” at Village, “Disco 3000” at Escape, & “Addiction” at The Edge, then on Saturday (30th) G.A.Y.is back at Heaven with a special “Wii” inspired party, while other options include “Fabulous” at Ku Bar, “Wig Out” at Ghetto Factory, “Adamix” at Village, & “Kitsch Karaoke” at Escape Bar, while further afield, West 5 celebrate their lucky for some 13th birthday. As for Sunday, well cabaret seems to rule the waves, The Two Brewers, 79 CXR, Halfway To heaven, The Stage, The Cambria, Molly Moggs & The Black Cap doing the business, details of all these options available by going online to http://boyz.co.uk.
Right, that’s about it for this new look “Bar Bites & Club Cuts” newsletter and as we get used to the new look we hope you will too. So, it’s just left for us to wish you a wonderful weekend wherever it finds you & whatever you get up to. As for us, it’s Onyx tonight for the 2nd half of their birthday “Double Bill”, then looks like we are on strict orders to make it to Beyond, having been missing last week, that followed by Later’s “Summer Boat Party” & the “Blessed” launch. So, if you see us out come say hi, but remember, to be & be seen on the scene you need to “Go There! Be There!” (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | 
Tags: Barcode, Beyond, Blessed, East Bloc, Gutterslut, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Onyx, Orange, Ponystep, Profile, Rupert St, S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out, The Brixton Clubhouse, The Eagle, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge | 
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Mud, Mud, Hideous Mud
We sit in our study looking out onto a bright & sunny Sunday afternoon, not a hint of rain in the sky, rather a warm July day that we could have done with at the same time last week, rather a shower soaked Sunday & a muddy meet the order of that day. However with another seven to also review & report on, including a pack of prolific parties & some not quite so, it’s time to once again look back on “That Was The Week That Was”, this latest lament also covering our moment, our track & our tweet of the week. But we will also be saving a small space for some of the latest news of upcoming outings to watch out for, as well as providing links to the websites of those bars, clubs & events that we cover.
Service Latin Style
So, let’s get down to the detail and to Thursday first, Room Service leading the way with their pre-party for Casa Latina, although drawing on the D.J. talents of resident D.J.’s Fat Tony & Kris Di Angelis, who were joined by East End boy Dan Beaumont. However, with Casa’s Mauricio Ortiz & Naomi Ruiz on hand to balance out the Latino influence, it was clear the appearance of George Michael the previous week had attracted attention, Diu absolutely packed to the rafters, a queue of hopefuls outside desperate to get a piece of the audacious action. So, it seems that whatever style of Shindig Jodie & her team turn their hands to, in Room Service they can pretty much guarantee to terrific turnout, this week looking no different Paul Heron kick starts his Room Service residency, Severino picking up the second slot. More info on Room Service in London, as well as their Monday nighter in Ibiza, can be found by going to http://clubroomservice.com. Plus, don’t forget that if you are a Room Service key holder, then complimentary champagne is available until 11.30 p.m. each Thursday, now we like the sound of that!
They Did It
Across Soho at Lo-Profile and it seemed that Gigolo was also getting its fair share of the action, its “Do It” party attracting a healthy crowd of scene faces & socialites, while the amazing Aussie Terry Vietheer treated the turnout to a terrific set of tunes, this tremendous talent seemingly fitting the clubs style like a glove, he being followed by the mighty Jamie Head, a Lo-Profile/Profile favourite who ensured Gigolo gyrated right through till the 3 a.m. finish. Now, whilst it has been a while since we have made a personal appearance, our undercover reviewer has been making it down virtually every week and it certainly seems that David & L.a. Hart’s creation has found a following that will definitely see it remaining a feature of Thursday’s for a long time to come. And the next event on the calendar (Thu 28th) may even see us gracing Gigolo with our presence, as Zach Burns is back, along with Guy Williams, a duo sure to score with the Soho social set, more info on this & much more out at http://gigolodisco.com.
Soho Society Set
Moving to Friday and the usual suspects swung into action, Onyx drawing breath before a double bill of birthday bashes at Area, celebrating 2 whole years in the business, while up in Soho, it was Society at Lo-Profile with Nick Evans & D’Johnny on the decks that reported the best turnout across a host of other venues making hay now that Barcode has closed. But it was the alternative bights that were really doing the business, all inclusive & generally gender bending gorgeousness Club Wotever, taking over The Royal Vauxhall Tavern, to celebrate its 8th birthday, very much kick starting a weekend of anniversary’s, promoter Ingo telling us that the night went down a storm, especially with the theme being “Carry On Wotever”, everybody did!! Then, sprinting across to the East End and the lads into lads club, Fitladz, made the move from Vauxhall to uber cool underground outfit East Bloc, the switch from west to east attracting a horny set of boys from far & wide, the underground nature & feel of East Bloc working really well, while another club on the move was Bodyshakers, which now finds itself at The Brixton Clubhouse with resident D.J. Steve Thomas, the unique roof top style of this south London gaff adding a new dimension to Steven Geller’s club creation. With the momentum that Friday’s gained earlier on in the year seeming to wax & wane a little, to choice of where to be & be seen has become quite diverse, but as they say, variety is the spice of life, so check out the following websites for info on happenings this coming week, http://loprofile.com, http://eastbloc.co.uk, http://thebrixtonclubhouse.com, http://thervt.org.uk. & http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties, one highlight to watch out for will be the second in Onyx’s “Double Bill” of birthday celebrations, the club being transformed into a beach oasis & welcoming special guest P.A. Kathy Brown.
Casa Carwash Colossus
Saturday saw Vauxhall standing under the scene spotlight the most, not least that there were two birthday celebrations, club of colour Bootylicious celebrating 10 years in business, opening its doors at Colosseum & attracting many of its longstanding regulars along with some new faces too. Then there was Barcode, this venue on Albert Embankment that took the scene by storm when it launched 5 years ago, throwing an anniversary celebration that certainly packed in the punters, although having sent in our undercover reviewer, it seemed that the birthday element was a little lacking (check out our review at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-birthday-bamboozle-barcode-5th-anniversary-saturday-16th-july-bite-size-review/). But the plaudits for us had to go to Casa Latina, which held its second showing at Fire and had the venue absolutely rammo with a magical mix of drop dead gorgeous Latino’s, club kids, muscle hunks & everything else in between. With a Brazilian based main room D.J, team that included Leandro Kloppel, & DouGuim, it was new boy Junior Moura that really tipped our scales with a superb set, while this “Super Carwash” event saw one of the best productions in Fire we have seen, no doubt as a result of in Mauricio Ortiz influence, while the lighting in the hands of Dorn Andrei was simply spectacular. Having had so much more to say about this Casa colossus, we lauded our full review treatment on the night, which you can check out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-junior-jamboree-casa-latina-super-carwash-saturday-16th-july-full-size-review/.
Homo Headliners
With Sunday set to be dominated by Lovebox, which in itself was dominated by the good old British summertime, we made our mind rule our heart, so skirted around Beyond which reported an average turnout, many of the Casa lot thinking the same as us, indeed with this third day in the music festival over at Victoria Park having a distinctly gay influence, it seemed that the world & his wife were heading east on Sunday afternoon. However, with a completely rain soaked Saturday leaving the park a Hippo’s haven, it was definitely mud, mud, hideous mud, as slipped & slided around Lovebox while the likes of The Scissor Sisters, Marc Almond, Boy George, Kelis, Robyn & The Sugarbabes performed. But the gay influence also extended to Horse Meat Disco, Trailer Trash and the highlight for us, as Circus pretty much stole the show, not least with that eight piece orchestra on stage, truly amazing. Now, we did report on our account of Lovebox with our special reflection, “Music & Mayhem In The Mud” at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-music-mayhem-in-the-mud-lovebox-sunday-17th-july-special-review-reflection/, while this Sunday we will be swapping the mud for the water, as Later takes to the seas, well the Thames actually, with its “Summer Boat Party” during the afternoon, while its a new club launch in the evening as Blessed takes over from Booster, more details of both coming up in the first of three Weekend Focus posts this week.
Tasty Monday Trap
Monday through Wednesday was pretty much a case of same old, same old, Popcorn riding the popularity stakes at heaven on Monday night with another packed out student affair, Citrus doing the pseudo Popcorn pre-party bit at Ku Bar, while it was eyes down for a full house at The RVT, as their final bingo session for the summer took place. Tuesday’s were given away to Vauxhall with Ashley Ryder’s “Strip Academy” at The Eagle, while Bar Wotever were still recovering from a severe birthday hangover following the clubs birthday bash the previous Friday, Wednesday being all about the fantabulous “Shinky Shonky”, Boogaloo Stu’s madcap meet gaining popularity by the week, the combination of pop-tastic music, game shows & performances making it one of the most fun-filled parties of the week. However, while it seemed business as usual for many, there was a new club launch, Lo-Profile in Soho playing host to Bear Trap, the creation of Manu Cartegenero of Cafe Ole fame, the evening attracting a smattering of scene faces supporting the launch, filling the gap left by The Cave (also a Manu creation). With D.J. residents Ben Jamin, Phil Marriott & Leonardo Glovibes rotating on a weekly basis, time will tell whether the club will survive the ravages of the current dip in the scene, but with the might of Gaydar behind it, there is no reason to suggest otherwise. For more details on these week night happenings, check out websites http://loprofile.com, http://eaglelodon.co.uk & http://ku-bar.co.uk.
10 Years On
Now to some news and this week, Thursday (28th) in fact, sees The Shadow Lounge celebrate 10 years as one of the Soho scene’s smartest & sophisticated spots with their “official” birthday party which looks like drawing in the who’s who of the gay celebrity scene, very much reflective of its first 10 years. However, with doors re-opening tonight (Monday 25th) when free (yes you heard us right) membership will be on offer, plus a 50% reduction on drinks prices, tomorrow seeing “OMFG” return, those free membership still up for grabs, while new Wednesday night affair “Balearic Beats” completes the mid-week line-up. With more info on their weekend parties coming up in our new “Bar Bites & Club Cuts” newsletter later this week, you can check on all the happenings down at the even smarter & sophisticated new era Shadow lounge at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Casting our eyes forward a few months, to October actually, when The Wig Party takes London by storm once again, although with many more celebrities wanting to get in on the act, it seems the organisers are aiming high with this year’s party, a new much swankier venue already lined up (think Mayfair & you’re getting close) which will fit the bill more than Cafe De Paris. Mind you having been made privy to the details as far back as last November, we have been asked to keep it under wraps for now, although as the wig parade come pageant is likely to be bigger & better than before, the team are already asking for entrants, details along with the £30 ticket purchases available at http://wigparty.org.
Blessed In The Chapel
Now, we gave a hint towards a new club night down Vauxhall way this coming weekend, “Blessed” being joined by another the following Friday, as Fire kick back with a new men only night called “Le Boy”, the name kind of suggesting a Rudeboiz style shindig, especially when you consider that the co-promoter of this new night is Kian Lee Thompson (aka D.J. Devilish). But none of it to be honest, as the night is much more of a music & macho meet rather than the porn & filth of the former, the D.J. line-up pretty grown up too, Paul Heron, Gonzalo Rivas & Hifi Sean taking up the musical mantles for the launch next Friday (5th August). We will be combining both “Blessed” & “Le Boy” in one of those Weekend Focus reports we deluded to earlier, so keep your eyes peeled for that.
So, we are on the home straight, meaning it’s time for our moment, our track & our tweet of the week, the moment (or is that moments?!?) having to go to the “Porridge Woman”, our Alyson making us jump out of our skin at Mile End tube station on the way to Lovebox last Sunday, it coming as no surprise that Steve Pitron was behind the ploy to get us trapped in her amorous arms & stare, the tweet of the week coming from the same day, a few minutes later in fact when we said “…Disco Matt has arrived at Lovebox & is with Steve, Celso, Pabs, Jess & a very amorous Alyson who keeps undressing us with her eyes. Papa bear is scared…”. For this and many more Nibble Size review tweets, you can tune in live or simply follow us by going to http://twitter.com/discomatt.
Review Nibbling
As for our track of the week, well there were actually a handful, a couple that made it right here in the last two weeks, so we had to choose another which we hope to include in our “Autumn Arousers” podcast, that is of course if our “Summer Scorchers” release actually gets to a final pressing, two attempts already taking the ten track compilation back to the mixing board or maybe even the scrap heap. However, in the Roy Davis Jr’s hit, “Enjoy The Ride”, we have a track that not only sends superb sensations up our spine, but is really appropriate to our Sunday of fairground fun at Lovebox, the James Talk & Ridney remix so very addictive, not least the amazing vocals by Kaye Fox, the full 6 minute version available to listen to at http://youtube.com/watch?v=yL2hBGwhc4E.
Right, that’s it for another “that Was The Week That Was” review/report, leaving us to remind you that if you want us to shout out for your favourite bar, club or event that rocked & rolled in the coming week, then plaster our Facebook wall with your details at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon or drop us a line at matt@discomatt.com. As for our upcoming activity, well its Shadow Lounge’s 10th Birthday this Thursday (28th July), which means we might swoop on Gigolo & Room Service too, while Friday sees the second Onyx birthday session, definite other dates being Later’s “Summer Boat Party” on Sunday afternoon (31st July) & then new club launch “Blessed” on Sunday night. So if you see us out, come say hi, but remember it’s good to “Go There! Be There!” (DISCO MATT)
Done & Dusted
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: Ben Jamin, Beyond, Blessed, Brent Nicholls, Casa Latina, Circus, David Hart, DouGuim, Gigolo, Guy Williams, Horse Meat Disco, Jamie Head, Jodie Harsh, Junior Moura, Kri Di Angelis, Ku Bar, L.a. Hart, Later, Leandro Kloppel, Lo-Profile, Lovebox, Onyx, Phil Marriott, Popcorn, Room Service, Society, Steve Pitron, Terry Vietheer, The Eagle, The RVT, Verity Mayes, Zach Burns | No Comments »
With a hectic London Gay Pride weekend now behind it, the capitals clubbing scene looked like it was taking a bit of a breather, in some ways paving the way for one event to dominate proceedings, all eyes on Sunday & Shoreditch Park for Summer Rites “Remixed” boutique clubbing festival, eyes also on the weather in the hope that the famed British summer would not rear its ugly head. But with many of the usual suspects out to play and with London seemingly never sleeping, there was plenty of action to pick on, leaving us with much to reflect on in another that was the week that was report.
Thursday Thrill
Thursdays have really taken off recently and with two superb social soiree’s hitting the high notes it comes as no surprise, Gigolo very much setting the cat amongst the scene pigeons as far as its competitors are concerned, yet very much boosting turnout in Soho at least. And we had planned to pop down to their “Get It On” party, although with a hectic weekend ahead & not feeling too clever, we sent in our secret squirrel undercover reviewer to report on it al instead, his comments well worth checking out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-soho-social-splendour-times-two-gigolo-society-at-lo-profile-thurs-fri-7th-8th-july-bite-size-review/, the night not their busiest, but the champagne flowing at least and promoters David & L.a. Hart very happy with their lot. This coming Thursday (21st July), they are being “Bad Boys” (aren’t they always? we know we are!), welcoming Nick Tcherniak to the D.J. residency fold for the first time, Terry Vietheer following up, so one to definitely pop into.
Go Go's Gyrate
Across Soho and Room Service was rocking, or should that be popping!?, not least that they had been graced with the presence of a pop legend, George Michael no less, host for the evening, Logan Schmitz (of SuperMartXe fame) having pulled on strings we were a tad surprised he had, Jodie Harsh’s hip & happening weekly social soiree becoming renowned for attracting the celebrities over & above the scene glitterati. Plus, with Room Service Ibiza also making a marked impression on the White Isle, it seems there is no stopping this brilliant brand in its tracks to become the best in its niche business, with a Casa pre-party another in a long run of branded bashes that has placed this Thursday nighther at the forefront of the scene. And this week is no different, as Jodie & her team throw their clout behind new magazine Ciotrous, a publication sitting firmly in the fashion industry, so sitting well with Room Service’s style, further details of this & all Room Service events available at http://clubroomservice.com.
Onto Friday and the call of “Society” once again saw us head into Soho for this clubbing come social splendour, Steve Pitron starting off without another stormer of a set that had us in a “Doing The Disco matt” frenzy within minutes, choices of classics intermixed with latest dancefloor fillers very much hitting the mark, while the cute yet capable Zach Burns carried the Society faithful through till the 4 a.m. finish with a pulsating performance that has seen him become one of the clubs favourite fella’s. We gave Society the review treatment which you can check out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-soho-social-splendour-times-two-gigolo-society-at-lo-profile-thurs-fri-7th-8th-july-bite-size-review/, while more information on Lo-Profile in general, including party bookings, events & offers can be found at http://loprofile.com, not forgetting new Monday night club “Bear Trap”, promoted by Cafe Ole man Manu Cartengo.
Superlovers Splash
Onto Saturday and Lovechild very much stole our limelight, a trip down to Fire starting off as a bit of a slow burner but gaining glorious momentum towards the end, our Full Size review reflection out at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-lay-all-your-love-on-me-lovechild-superlovers-saturday-8th-july-full-size-review/. Lovechild aside, it seemed that Lo-Profile attracted a healthy crowd with scene stalwart Rob Sykes & then Italian bello Alessandro Londra wowed this Wardour St wonder till dawn. But the night also saw the return of an iconic clubbing event, as Wig Out stormed the scene at new venue Ghetto Factory of Aldwych, the larger than life Peter Burns packing out the place & treating Wig’ers to a full four track filled performance that went down a treat, the feel of the venue not quite the same as the old Ghetto days, but with the following should prove a weekly winner, with a Madonna tribute night lined up and plenty more to come from this indie pop sensation. And it seemed that alternative was hip, as both East Bloc in Shoreditch & The Dalston Superstore reported pulsating parties, the former sporting another “Meat” event that set attendance records & was the best atmosphere yet, both Kris D Angelis & Tom Stephan telling us just how good it was, while The DSS had their say with the prolific “Paris Acid Ball” that seems to go from strength to strength, two venues well worth a visit if you haven’t, details out at http://eastbloc.co.uk & http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Riteous Romp
Now to Sunday, which was all about Summer Rites, although not before we headed to Beyond which was very much “off plan”, but having spilled out of Lovechild, the temptation was too much. And with first The Oli playing a spectacular set in the Terrace, following which Gonzalo kept us an hour after we should have left, Mikey D’s arrival & insistence that we stay meant that resisting his raptures was futile, so despite needing to be fresh for the festival afterwards, it was well gone 11 a.m. until we dragged our carcass out of Area. So, Summer Rites was a struggle, although with the aid of a free ride from Vauxhall in the company of Patrick Lilley & Alex Erfan, we made it to Shoreditch Park just as the clouds cleared & the early evening sunshine began to show its helpful hand , a host of brilliant brands including Salvation, Popstarz, XXL, Meat, Gutterslut & Bootylicious, adding to all the usual park party attractions like bumper cars, candy floss & beer, well not beer per say, more cider which seems to be the vogue drink at the mo. However, the upshot was that Summer Rites worked like a dream for us, indeed having given it the full review treatment at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-park-partying-pitched-perfectly-summer-rites-remixed-sunday-10th-july-full-size-review/ we concluded that it was a park party pitched perfectly.
Poptastic Partying
Onto the final three days of the week that was and Popcorn yet again pulled in the student punters across four rooms of fun, while up in Soho, Lo-Profile played host to new night, “Bear Trap” with Phil Marriott & Ben Jamin on the decks, promoter Manuel Garcia of Ursus & Cafe Ole fame pleased to be back in the west end & with a manly Monday nighter which will surely find its feet pretty soon. However with little else to report upon, it seems that the mid week world had fallen a little flat, Shadow Lounge currently closed for refurbishments, the smattering of regular nights like “Citric” at Ku-Bar/Club on Monday’s, Ashley Ryder’s Amateur Strip Show at The Eagle on Tuesday’s & “Shinky Shonky” again at Ku-Bar/Club but on Wednesday’s remain the best of the bunch, not forgetting Patrick Lilley’s “Work”, which is fitting in well at Fire, having moved from the Lightbox to the Mirrorarch space which works (excuse the pun) much better for them. More details of all these happenings can be found at http://popcorn-heaven.com, http://ku-bar.co.uk, http://eaglelondon.com, & http://patricklilley.com.
Now to some news and first to a new club launch coming your way next Friday, as Fire in Vauxhall open up the offer, fitting in a weekly men only club to their packed schedule, “Le Boy” a departure from the sex fuelled parties of before, more a club with great music in mind and serving as a more up market alternative to Onyx over at Area. Now, we will be bringing you a full preview this weekend, giving details of the launch which will take place on Friday 29th July, so watch this space for that, while for all events on the full Fire schedule can be found by going to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Up in Soho and two hip & happening hangouts celebrate milestone anniversary’s, Rupert Street the first, this weekend actually (Fri 22nd to Sun 24th July), when it marks 15 years in operation, so excepting Village & Comptons, is now the longest running bar venue in this premier gay village. And to mark the occasion, the team will be throwing a special party on the Saturday night, when all things beach will be the theme, palm trees, sand, tight shorts of course & plenty more the name of the game, while international playboy D.J. Paul Heron will be sorting the sounds. Plus, with that nasty scaffolding down & the outside having been given a neat lick of paint, it’s all systems go for their special weekend, more info in the bar available at http://rupertstreet.com.
New Era
As for the other?, well its Shadow Lounge which we mentioned was closed for refurbishments, this in preparation for its 10th anniversary and by the looks of the photos taken of the place in its current raw state, the changes look like being pretty extensive, so well worth the look when it re-opens with a massive “New Era” party on Thursday 28th July. Now given this momentous occasion, we will be looking back across Shadow Lounge’s 10 years in business & then looking forward to this new era in their splendid life pushing the oho social soiree scene envelope, interviewing the new manager of the venue, reporting all via a special Disco Matters feature, while you can always keep an eye on their website at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk, which is also getting a re-look & revamp.
Right, before we wrap another seven day look at the scene, time to pick our moment, our track & our tweet of the week, the moment going to Mikey D at beyond, his insistence that we stay on our spot for the duration of his set, very much setting the pattern for a superb Sunday and a spectacular set of his, the best we have heard in a long time, our tweet of the week also coming from this unplanned yet enthralling expedition, and aimed at the man himself when we remarked to Mikey, “…my iron ling needs a breather from this breathtaking set of yours at beyond. We shouldn’t even be here, “So Glad We Came” though!…”, not forgetting that you can follow our Nibble Size review tweets & other mentions at http://twitter.com/discomatt.
As for the track, well the re-emergence of a favourite from earlier in the year really did it for us, plus coming from artists that are likely to scoop top prize in our year end round up for this department. Pink Fluid, the duo from, responsible for recent tracks like “So Much Love” (the lyrics “So Glad We Came” coming from that very track) & Noise In Da House”, first found favour with us back in March when “Bitch Lady” was rocking the dancefloors everywhere, yet it has seemed to endure, moreover reappearing on many an occasion across the week. Having also revised our “Summer Scorchers” list, giving it a late inclusion, we simply had to give it our vote here, the Craziba remix our favourite and in full length glory at http://youtube.com/watch?v=ISsU2cGAbVQ.
Right that’s it for our slightly overdue round up of the week with just time to remind you that if you want us to shout out for your favourite bar, club or event that rocked & rolled in the coming week, then link into us via our main Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon and plaster our wall with your details or then drop us a line now at matt@discomatt.com. As for the coming weekend, well we have our work cut out with writing catch up’s aplenty, the next “That Was The Week That Was” report out on Saturday, along with our Full Size review on Casa Latina, Bite Size reflections on Barcode’s 5th Birthday & Lovebox, while a full & fast speed music newsletter will be out too. On the scene front, it’s Onyx’s 2nd birthday bash & Beyond vs Deviate for us, so if you see us out, come say hi, but remember it’s good to “Go There! Be There!” (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: Bear Trap, Beyond, Casa Latina, Citric, Gigolo, Ku Bar, Le Boy, Lo-Profile, Lovechild, Onyx, Popcorn, Room Service, Rupert Street, Shinky Shonky, Society, Summer Rites, The Shadow Lounge, Wig Out | No Comments »
With our heads having been buried in computers & the compilations for well over twenty four hours, our minds are now focused back on the forthcoming weekend and one that looks set to be another purple patch period of partying with two exceptional events on our schedule. However, looking across the scene, there is so much more on offer meaning that it’s time to run through our Best Bites & Short Shouts across Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere, as the march towards the middle of the month marks to marvellous meets.
Wardour Street Wonders
To Soho first and our Best Bite pretty much a foregone conclusion as Profile & Lo-Profile get our choice again this week. But rather than run through the whole offer at these Wardour St. wonders, having visited two weeks in a row, we will let our reviews do the talking, , “I Want My Porridge”, which should probably say “We Got Our Porridge”, looking at Profile (direct link) http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-i-want-my-porridge-junior-moura-plays-profile-barcode-friday-1st-saturday-2nd-july-bite-size-review/, while with both Gigolo & Society playing a big part in Lo-Profile’s weekly offer, we combined both into one review which gives you as good a flavour as any recommendation (direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-soho-social-splendour-times-two-gigolo-society-at-lo-profile-thurs-fri-7th-8th-july-bite-size-review/). However, whilst it’s good to reflect, especially when it’s all about good times, it’s also great to look forward and this weekend, both Profile & Lo-Profile give you a lot to look forward to, the former sporting two of its longest serving resident D.J.’s Jamie Head dishing up the dance hits tomorrow (Fri 15th), while the cheeky Craig Daniels does the business on Saturday, both starting from 8 p.m. & carrying you through to the extended 11.30 p.m. curtain call. With a fab food offer, the friendliest staff & the best cocktails in town, check out more info of his sophisticated spot at http://profilesoho.com. As for downstairs in Lo-Profile, with Society steering you into Saturday, the man behind the concept, nu-funk exponent extraordinaire Brent Nicholls kicks off another session of this social come clubbing splendour, while Nick Evans takes up the music mantle till 4 a.m. Then on Saturday, it seems that Lo-Profile can’t get enough of Hugh Stevenson, as he is back for a second weekend, Alessandro Londra polishing off another wonderful Wardour St weekend, more details on Lo-Profile available at http://loprofile.com.
A New Era
Now to some Short Shouts & Rupert St get first bite, with D.J. Minx in charge on the tunes tomorrow night, while Oliver M, fresh from the La Demence cruise should have tons of terrific tunes up his sleeve on Saturday (16th) both selecting the sounds from 9 p.m. till midnight, details on this popular place out at http://rupertstreet.com.
To Ku-Bar now and having popped in last night, it seems they have had a major makeover (well since we were there last anyway), so definitely a more sophisticated look upstairs, while is business as usual downstairs, the DJ quest comp still in full force tomorrow (Fri 15th), while on Sunday, Lady Lloyd holds another “Hit Factory” happening, also not forgetting “Citric” on Monday (yes not the weekend!!), more info out at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Finally to The Shadow Lounge, who are right in the middle of a massive makeover in time for their 10th anniversary, this Saturday signalling the last party before they close their doors for the major facelift works. So, with furniture & other Shadow souvenirs up for grabs, Andrew Elmore making sure the sounds are spectacular, this should be a closing party to remember, while the new look is also extending to the website, where you can get all the info you need on what when & where, at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Saturday Spotlight
Onto Vauxhall and one event stands out among a sea of others in The Orange Group stable, as Casa Latina makes its second splash on the scene, with their “Super Car Wash” party this Saturday (16th July), we having covered it all in detail with our Weekend Focus “Brazilian Beats Bonanza”, out at direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-brazilian-beats-bonanza-cas-latina-super-car-wash-saturday-16th-july-weekend-focus/, and one prolific party you won’t want to miss. So, whilst Casa is standing in the Saturday spotlight, there is plenty else on offer, starting with Onyx tomorrow night at Area, residents D.J.;s including Lee Harris, Jc Christiopher Ariel & Lisa German, while straight after its another A:M Afterhours at Fire, proving a great excuse to push the euphoric envelope deep into Saturday morning. Then, with all those Latino’s out at Fire on Saturday night, they will definitely be in partying mood, so heading for Beyond on Sunday morning, while the team also party hard in Paris the previous night, The Oli & Paul Heron flying the flag once again. With Later on Sunday afternoon in a purple patch of partying, so should prove a draw, especially for those not heading out to Lovebox, while Booster keeps the clubbing going straight to Orange that carries you deep into Monday morning & a later crawl to the office or workstation. Whilst it is very much business as usual for The Orange Group this weekend, there is a new kid on the block night coming your way very soon, not to mention big plans for August, so here is where to keep your eyes peeled as the news breaks (no phone tapping required for info). But, you could also pay a visit to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties for more information on a full-on week of clubbing that also includes Gravity, Deuces, Open & Work, while to get guest list entries to clubs, clock on to http://gayguestlists.com/ & add your club choice after it (i.e. Onyx, Later, Booster).
Barcode Birthday
Onto some Short Shouts now and never say we shy away from something a little off our usual beaten track, but when a club celebrates a birthday, its 10th no less, then it definitely deserves a mention. And in this case, our shout goes to Bootylicious, marking this milestone with birthday bash that celebrates this clubbing of colour collectives’ coolest raves across a decade that has seen it hop from Crash to Area & then jump to Colosseum, where this party takes place on Saturday (16th), more info on this institution available at http://bootylicious-club.co.uk/.
Next & to a venue who’s Sunday nighter, Horse Meat Disco, will be in the thick of the action at Lovebox in Victoria Park (more on that in a mo), while The Eagle hold a pre-Lovebox celebration with HMD’s Jim Stanton on the decks, while the previous night, Tim Jones’s “Tonker” sees another Jones on the decks, Ross bashing out the beats at this bear-tastic gathering. With HMD back for a post Lovebox mash-up on Sunday night (17th July) and a week full of frolics, go check out the venues website http://eaglelondon.com for more info.
Now to another birthday celebration, as Barcode Vauxhall celebrates 5 years on the clubbing scene this Saturday (16th July), with an extra special party, bringing back some of its favourite D.J. residents to mix up the musical birthday cake recipe, Steven Artis joined by Gonzalo Rivas, Hugh Stevenson, Elliot J Brown & Paul Coals. Now, we will be devoting an Extra Bites post to BCV’s birthday, so keep your eyes peeled for that, but for details on this, the now singular Barcode in the capital, go to http://bar-code.co.uk.
Fab Festival Fun
So to our alternatives and Best Bite just had to go to Lovebox, which whilst in the domain of breeder land for most of its three day festival length, has a distinct homo feel to it on Sunday (17th July), when it seems the lion’s share of the gay clubbing scene will be heading out to Victoria Park to give support to the likes of Circus, Horse Meat Disco & Trailer Trash, who will be flying the rainbow flag over the exceptional alfresco event. But when you see the main stage line-up, there is plenty of gay interest too, as headlining are The Scissor Sisters, while big players Robyn, Kelis, Beth Ditto, Blondie & Marc Almond no less, all hit the homo mark, the list of performers stretching deep into double figures (we count 55), both Tensnake & Jonny Woo in the mix, while that Circus stage looks like one not to miss. And having spoken with Kris Di Angelis on the subject a couple of weeks ago, the live performance planned is one you simply won’t want to miss, the Circus top protagonists all involved, including Scottee, Tom Stephan &, of course Jodie Harsh herself. Add to all that a packed park serving up cabaret, circus rides, street theatre, vintage bazaars, art installations & much more and we are just praying the glorious British summer doesn’t let us down. Now, looking at the official website, http://lovebox.net, there are still both standard & VIP tickets on sale via the official suppliers, Ticketmaster & HMV tickets, but be warned, you will need to collect them on the gate as even we, having ordered ours two weeks ago, have to potentially stand in a queue for our VIP ones (not very VIP that is it?!?!). However, tickets aside, this is going to be a fantastic festival and one hell of a day for us, DM being on hand to review it all, while we will also be pushing out an Extra Bites recommends post, giving you the last minute rundown of where to be & be seen.
Right to a couple of Short Shouts to round off this newsletter and we head up to Dalston first, to The Dalston Superstore in fact, who are very much in the Lovebox mood with their “Optimo” party on Saturday (16th) when the Glasgow duo of JD Twitch & JG Wilkes roll up fresh from their Lovebox appearance for the city’s legendary club, that being Optimo of course, while Horse Meat Disco’s Severino rocks upstairs. With “Boydem” on Friday & a very special “Outside The Box” post Lovebox party on Sunday, Trailer Trash, Bodytalk & Hot Boy Dancing Spot combining for one monumental mash-up & The DSS is definitely the place to be, more info available at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Over at East Bloc and the boys are still in recovery mode after a superb Summer Rites festival last weekend, but welcome Fitladz to the fray, this boy on boy bash having uprooted itself from Vauxhall, picks this trendy Shoreditch spot to draw in some of those “aww right” East End ladz tomorrow night (Fri 15th), while it is a case of S.O.S., as this plu populaire night is back, the likes of Jim Warboy, The Lovely Jonjo, Scottee & La Gosse included in the line-up, more details on East Bloc out at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Tan Top Up
Right folks, we are pretty much there for another weekend, but just time to squeeze in two tiny mentions, first to tip top clubbing site SeenQueen, who have updated their own diary of events right into August, this & much more available at http://seenqueen.com/, while with the weather being what it is, maybe a tan would go a miss, the best place to top up & look beautiful being Solarstation on Archer Street in Soho, full details of offers from Hassan & his team up on their website at http://solarstation.co.uk.
So, with plenty to choose from this weekend and with every hope that the sun will be shining on the righteous this Sunday, all that’s left to do is to wish you a pleasant one, wherever you are & whatever you are doing, but if you find yourselves at Casa Latina on Saturday or Lovebox on Sunday & spot us out, come say hi, but remember what we say, which is simply “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Barcode Vauxhall, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Casa Latina, Circus, Craig Daniels, Horse Meat Disco, Hugh Stevenson, Jamie Head, Jodie Harsh, Kris Di Angelis, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Lovebox, Nick Evans, Onyx, Orange, Profile Bar, Rupert St, The Eagle, The Orange Group, The Shadow Lounge, Tom Stephan, Trailer Trash | No Comments »
Having taken a break last weekend from our Best Bites & Short Shouts recommendations as we honed in on what proved to be the real highlight of London Pride 2011, The Fire Dance Stage, also wanting to concentrate on our post rather than pre-reporting, putting our much missed full length reviews back on the map, we return with our look forward to the highlights of the coming three days on the clubbing scene, picking out our choices of where to be & be seen. And having already laid out hat on two, we will share the links to those Weekend Focus posts, as well as running down what best & otherwise in Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere.
Stylish Soho Spot
So, let’s get to it and have a look at the capital’s first & favourite gay village, rising like cream in a milk bottle being Profile & Lo-Profile (yes they’re here every week we know!) who are still very much talking the talk & walking the walk on a bar & club scene awash with also rans, Lo-Profile particularly proving an exciting alternative to our friends south of the river. But let’s have a look at its smaller but perfectly formed partner, Profile very much a stylish spot to kick start your weekend, not least as they offer the best combo of quality drinks & food that we know, all in swish surroundings that also sport some of the scene’s top D.J.’s as well as new talent on both Friday’s & Saturday’s to compliment the outstanding offer & warm you into taking a trip downstairs to bigger sister Lo-Profile. And this weekend looks like being another greater starter for clubbers & socialites alike, as two Profile resident favourites return to spin some superb sounds to get you moving & grooving to the bar-tastic beats, tomorrow night (Friday 8th) seeing Nathan Six dive behind the D.J. decks, no doubt still smarting from a stellar set the previous night for social splendour Gigolo’s “Fever” foray, while on Saturday (9th), it’s the turn of scene stalwart Rob Sykes to select those supercharged sounds & slide you into the dancing dervishness of downstairs. With the D.J.’s revving up the rhythms from 8 p.m., a happy hour running between 4 & 7 & plenty more on offer, go check out the bar’s website at http://profilesoho.com for more details.
Society Stars Set To Shine
So to Lo-Profile and the spotlight having been on Gigolo tonight (Thurs 7th), this Soho splendour having firmly established itself on the social soiree scene, tomorrow night it’s the turn of another glorious gathering with plenty of social style but a more clubbier edge to have that spotlight shone on it, “Society” reaching for the stars with two star D.J.’s of the scene, one of the biggest in the business, Steve Pitron kicking off proceedings from 10 p.m., no doubt treating us to a Beyond-esque performance full of all those adorable anthems & heavenly house hits we have come to love, while the cute yet capable Zach Burns makes its two nights in a row, returning to the Lo-Profile scene of the crime to lay down another stormer of a set that has made him one of the clubs shining new stars & very much a rising talent in our books, Zack taking over from Mr Pitron at 1 a.m. & carrying you through till the 4 a.m. finish. Then on Saturday, it’s the Beyond pre-party with one of this awesome afterhours former & one of current residents pointing you in the direction of Sunday morning & a date with Area, Hugh Stevenson starting off the night of musical magic, with D’Johnny fresh from WE parties last weekend in London & Madrid, caps off a superb session of sounds. Add to all that, a new night event “Bear Trap”, launching this coming Monday (11th July) with Ben Jamin & Phil Marriott in charge of the chunky tunes and there is much going on down Lo-Profile way, more details on happenings available at http://lo-profile.com
Now to some Short Shouts and first to Ku Bar on Lisle Street, who continue their D.J. talent contest tomorrow night (Fri 8th), with The Very Miss Dusty O, mistress of ceremonies, while fast forwarding to Sunday, gender bender Lady Lloyd legs its back from Trannyshack at Summer Rites to roll out another “Hit Factory” evening of pop & classic house, Monday seeing the delectable DouGuim spin the sounds at “Citric”. More info on Ku Bar & its events can be found at http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Onto Rupert St and they roll our tow of their favourites to add to resident Alessandro Londra’s regular Sunday session, tomorrow (Fri 8th) seeing foxy female D.J. Minx take to the decks, while on Saturday, Oliver M will no doubt be sharing his tales of the La Demence cruise & some new sounds he has picked up on his travels. With a revamp on its way, you can still check out the bars website for offer info by going to http://rupertstreet.com.
Finally for Soho, two quick reminders, the first being a permanent closure as Barcode graced its exit from the scene last week, new owners, Freedom, about to undertake some major refurbishments, while its a refurb of another scale across at Shadow Lounge, which gets a extensive nip & tuck from next week, closing its doors until the re-launch in time for its 10th birthday on 25th July. Watch this space for a full feature on this stylish trendsetter as it celebrates its milestone, while we will let you know more on Barcode’s successor as soon as news reaches us.
Right onto Vauxhall and firstly we cannot contain our excitement in reporting the return of Alex Erfan’s brilliant brand Lovechild, which having taken a short break is coming back bigger & better. Now we covered their “Super Heroes” event, which takes place this Saturday (9th July) in our Weekend Focus post, “From Fire To Fever”, (out & available via direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-from-fire-to-fever-lovechild-super-heroes-meets-fever-saturdays-9th-16th-july-weekend-focus-special/), while to re-enforce our details, with this post pride party just a fiver to get in & offering a host of international D.J. talent, drop dead gorgeous dancers, magnificent music & sexy shows, it has to be a must on your Saturday schedule.
Recovery Rhythms
However, while Lovechild definitely gets our vote, our Best Bite goes to the Orange Group who are holding a weekend of post pride tank you parties, starting with Onyx tomorrow night (Fri 9th July) at Area & bringing you the best in “Classic” partying, with resident D.J.’s including Lee Harris Jc Christopher, Lisa German, Ariel, Jason Prince & James St James, play uplifting house, tough tech & purist pop across three rooms of fun, new promoter Verity Meyes, has introduced two new guests to the line up, Lady Lloyd joining the pop-tastic crew in the chapel room, while the delectable DouGuim toughs it out in the in the terrace space. With all the usual luminous laser lighting, prolific pyrotechnics & exceptional effects, the entertainment also extends to vivacious vocalist, Tonnic, who takes to a specially positioned stage in the main room, performing alongside both Lee & J.c across the events proceedings Labelled as much as a “Pride Recovery” party as a thank-you, the big thank you being free entry with an ad or flyer before midnight, while this free offer also extends to anyone on the guestlist that makes it to Onyx’s doors before the witching hour, that guestlist inclusion available by going to http://gayguestlists.com. For those not sharp or quick enough to make it before midnight, it’s still worth grabbing a flyer from Tom’s boys in town, or from the man himself who will be on tireless duty into the wee hours, entrance after midnight at £6 with that flyer, while its £8 for others, that’s if you haven’t bought your advance £5 ticket online at http://area.clubtickets.com. And if those special entrance offers aren’t enough, then drinks prices at just £1 for shots & £2.90 for selected bottles should please, more info on Onyx available by going to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Thank You Throng
Then it’s a case of looking forward to Sunday morning (10th July) as Beyond then stands under the post pride thank-you spotlight, serving up a special party, again to sat a big thank you from the team for making their “Super Pride” event the huge success it was, very much sending nearly all the other parties across the weekend sliding into the shade. Indeed, we were there to review it all, sparkling sets from both Mikey D & Steve Pitron, along with spectacular showings from a host of others including Fat Tony, The Sharp Boys & The Oli (check out our review at http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-rapturous-return-erupts-emotions-beyond-super-pride-sunday-3rd-july-full-size-review/). As for this coming Sunday, we are expecting more of the same, The Oli & Fat Tony definitely taking charge of the terrace room, while the future house chapel space will see regular Paul Christian joined by Hifi Sean, fresh from his exploits over in Spain for Madrid Pride last weekend. As for the main room, while we are still awaiting the final line-up, but are hedging our bets on a return for Paul Heron, fresh from his La Demence cruise exploits & having played for Beyond on the boat day six, while we are flipping a coin between Messrs Dower, Rivas & The Sharp’s to pick up the other two slots on this superb shindig. Now, here’s the deal on that thank you that the team are offering and it comes with one of their best ever, as with your hands on the Beyond “Pride Thank You Party” flyer, entry before 8 a.m. is just £5, that’s a full £15 discount on the usual door price entry. However, for those not wise enough to get in on this amazing act, then advance tickets at £10 are available at outlets Prowler, Clone Zone & 50, at bars Rupert St & The Yard, as well as online at http://area.clubtickets.com, with further details available at the clubs dedicated website run by promoter Jonny Marsh at http://jonny-m.co.uk/beyond. Plus, don’t forget “Beyond On the Radio”, which sports a whole seven hours of those spectacular sets from last week’s “Super Pride” event, this being no better way to warm up for the club itself, than by tuning in at http://gaydarradio.com.
Now to some Short Shouts & we stay with The Orange Group for our first, as the team now have not one day in the week to rest as Patrick Lilley’s “Work” club runs from The Lightbox at Fire each Wednesday, completing an exhaustive line-up that also includes Gravity on Thursday’s, A:M on Saturday morning, Later Sunday afternoon, Orange Monday morning & Open on Tuesday’s, while over at Area, Beyond & Onyx are joined by Deuces on a Thursday & Booster on a Sunday night, details of all these events available at http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties.
Our other Vauxhall Short Shout goes to The Eagle who have a full weekend on offer, Friday set aside for Tim Jones’ “Tonker”, while on Sunday its Jim Stanton & James Hillard’s “Horse Meat Disco”. But the big gun is the return of “Sugar” this coming Saturday (9th July)the iconic nineties & noughties RnB slanted shindig with headline D.J. Anthony Crank supported by the likes of Simon Allen, Lee Thomas & Simon Kilner, all with a brilliant bag of beats to barnstorm this epic event, so well worth a look in. For details of these & other events across the week, go to http://eaglelondon.com.
Fabulous Festival Fun
So to our alternatives and to the hint from our post title, as Sunday afternoon & afterwards looks set to be dominated by the return of fabulous festival Summer Rites, which holds its boutique clubbing style outdoor event “Remixed” at Shoreditch Park, we having covered the devil in the detail in our Weekend Focus post “Fantastic Festival Re-Formed” (out at direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/recommends-fantastic-festival-re-formed-summer-rites-re-mixed-sunday-10th-july-weekend-focus/), the team behind this Hoxton happening very much very much praying for some sun amidst what is a spell of vey unseasonable weather, yet will be THE place to be come Sunday afternoon. So, without doubt Summer Rites “Remixed gets our alternative Best Bite vote for this weekend, the detail laid out for all to see in our focus post. However, to recap on some of the important info, please note that online tickets while still available at http://summer-rites.com priced at £20, you will need to collect these at the entry gates, while outlets Prowler & Expectations are selling too, although only have a limited stock available, so it’s worth placing a call before you visit. Failing that, you can pay for entry at the park gates, although please ensure you have the readies with you, as card payments cannot be accepted. And just to remind you that with brilliant clubbing brands out in force including Salvation, Trannyshack, XXL, Meat, Gutterslut & Bootylicious, this is one outdoor event, brolley or not, you won’t want to miss. However, one part of proceedings we didn’t hit off in our extensive Summer Rites devotion, was the afterparty arrangements, “Encore” being the “official post festival gathering at urban warehouse venue, Village Underground, just 15 minutes away from Shoreditch Park, this party kicking off from 9 p.m. until late & sporting a D.J. line-up that includes Per Q.X, Tom Stephan, Jeffrey Hinton & Paul Coals, while entry to this event is a mere £5 with wristband, (until 11 p.m. & available in the park all day) plus £5 before 10 p.m. or £10 otherwise, more details available at http://summer-rites.com or http://eastbloc.co.uk.
So, to a couple of Short Shouts to round off our Weekend recommendations & we cannot resist serving up a double dose of “Meat”, as Tom Stephan will not only be flying this magnificent meet’s flag at Summer Rites, but the night before (Sat 9th July) will be in the thick of the action at host venue, East Bloc, along with Meat men Kris Di Angelis & James Pople, while Munroe Bergdorf & Kingsley look after room two. But while this will be a Saturday storm (more details at http://eastbloc.co.uk) Sunday will see Tom & his team serve up more Meat go-go’s, more Meat comedy/twisted porn, bigger beats from Messrs Stephan & Pople & the promise of the biggest tent in the park meaning it’s time to get your fill of Meat “Two Ways”.
Our other Short Shout goes to the return of one of the alternative clubbing scene’s greatest, as “Wig Out” comes at ya this coming Saturday (9th July), oh the choice!!!, this pop institution that was forced to close when host venue Ghetto was condemned to the bulldozer to make way for Crossrail, makes a triumphant scene resurgence at the aptly named Ghetto Factory, off Aldwych, with a special performance by none other than Pete Burns, while D.J.’s on duty will include Tommy Turntables & Lady Lloyd., added to which 2-4-1 drinks from opening at 10 p.m. for the first (happy) hour & not over £2.80 afterwards is as big a draw for some as Pete is for others.
Right, that’s just about it for another week, but a reminder that if you would like us to give your favourite bar, club or event a Short Shout, or even if you feel it deserves a Best Bite inclusion, then drop us a line at matt@discomatt.com, or send us a message via our Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon. Plus, we will be launching a new section on our website called “Lists”, where will be popping regular brief posts detailing the all important information of those choices where DM reckons you should be & be seen on the scene, so keep your eyes peeled for more news on that.
In the meantime, we hope you like our choices here and wish you a wonderful weekend, while for us, it looks like we will be popping into “Society” at Lo-Profile tomorrow night (Fri 8th July) for a catch up with Messrs Pitron & Burns, while on Saturday, it’s a “Super Lovers” night as we will be on review duty at Lovechild, Sunday being devoted to Shoreditch Park & Summer Rites “Remixed”. So, if you see us out, come say hi, but wherever you are & whatever you do, make sure you “Go There! Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Area, Ariel, Beyond, Booster, D'Johnny, Deuces, East Bloc, Gonzalo Rivas, Gravity, Hifi Sean, Hugh Stevenson, James Pople, Jc Christopher, Kris Di Angelis, Ku Bar, Lady Lloyd, Later, Lee Harris, Lisa German, Lo-Profile, Lovechild Fire, Meat, Minx, Nathan Six, Oliver M, Onyx, Orange, Paul Heron, Per Q.X., Porfile, Rob Sykes, Rupert St, Salvation, Steve Pitron, Summer Rites, The Oli, The Orange Group, The Sharp Boys, Trannyshack, Wig Out, Work, Zack Burns | No Comments »
Avoiding Alfresco Antics
Having been consumed in all things Pride, we find ourselves in catch up mode and looking back on the previous week which proved another quiet one in Disco Matt land while we continued to rest & mend our broken bones, although with Wimbledon dominating our airwaves, we had much to keep us amused while our eyes & ears were checking out the movers & shakers on the scene, including a new international entry that made a superb splash out in Ibiza.
- Nathan & Jamie In The Gigolo House
So let’s get straight to it and look back to Thursday 23rd July, Gigolo entertaining a considerable crowd with two Lo-Profile favourites, Nathan Six & Jamie Head on the decks, Nathan kicking off with some superb uplifting & disco tipped sounds, while Mr Head turned up the house heat with a brilliant blend of classic disco heaven with tougher tech that really hit the spot. With both David & L.A. keeping the offer really fresh, transforming the host venue to give it an individual & refreshing feel, Gigolo has very much earned its place on the clubbing calendar and with Nathan back for more this week (Thurs 7th July) along with the cute yet capable Zach Burns, this is a “Fever” frolic you won’t want to miss, DM there to report on it all & more details on Gigolo available at http://gigolodisco.com
Ibiza Send Off Smash
Onto the other big Thursday hitter, Room Service, Jodie Harsh & co very much in Ibiza mood with a warm up session for their launch on the white isle (more on that in a mo), legendary D.J.’s Fat Tony & Ariel very much doing the business with bags of brilliant beats to give Jodie, Kris & co the best “Ibiza Send Off” they could have wished for, while the Manhunt men provided plenty of eye candy as well as stacks of super give-aways, even the Room Service crew getting in on the act with special Ibiza t-shirts (where’s ours?!?!) along with more of the spectacular same social soiree splendour that has become a trademark of this magnificent weekly meet. And having been there to report on Room Service’s “WE Heroes Pre-Party” last Thursday, watch this space for DM’s Bite Size review “Pitron Posse Pack A Punch”, out shortly, while tonight (Monday 4th July) Kris Di Angelis heads up the 2nd Ibiza outing at Aura, then Thursday seeing Jodie host a “Go-Go” inspired party in London, Severino & Dmitry Struigen serving up the sound, more info on these & future Room Service events a click away at http://clubroomservice.com.
Society Soho Soiree
Onto Friday and it seemed that the quietist one of the month was proving to be just that, “Society” at Lo-Profile reporting average attendance, although both Nick Evans & “Society” new boy Zach Burns certainly impressed with scores of superb sounds, the team behind this Soho smash, upping the ante just last weekend with a Brazilian themed party, while we enjoyed our own slice of Sao Paulo, as one of Brazil’s best exports, Junior Moura made his Profile (that’s upstairs) debut, the second of our weekend reviews, this one titled “I Want My Porridge”, including Junior’s pulsating performance here. As for this Friday?, well it looks like being hot, hot hot, as Beyond boy Steve Pitron & the cute yet capable Zack Burns both make a welcome return, DM out for the 2nd night in a row to report on it all, while more info on Lo-Profile can be found on their fab website at http://lo-profile.com
Other movers & shakers on Friday were very much on the alternative circuit, as “Marvellous” ended up a manic mash-up with a packed out Royal Vauxhall Tavern seeing Joan Dairy Queen host a hip hop happening, the D.J. duo of Jonny Slut & Dawn Right Nasty mixing the music into a wash of punk, soul, rock, disco & funk, the midnight strip show popping plenty of eyeballs, while over in Dalston, the Superstore boys welcoming new night “Breed” with energetic electronic the name of the music genre game, deck duties performed by the creative combo Rufus & Bambi, along with promoter Rex The Dog (say no more!). However, with many eyes on alfresco antics the following day, it was The Two brewers in Clapham that showed the way, Manager Jimmy Smith (is he still going?!) reporting a huge turnout for the “Drag Idol” final hosted by the one & only Titti La Camp & sporting one of the strongest contestant line-ups in years.
Squeezing Onto SW4 Street
So we move to Saturday and with the weather improving by the hour, come 3 p.m. the sun had definitely got his hat on in time for the “7th Annual Clapham Street Party”, the queue to get a squashed up spot on Edgerley Street next to Kazbar, stretching right up towards The Two Brewers, who themselves had sealed off the street next to the pub which was also packed. With the world & his wife on the London gay scene descending on SW4, those who were wise enough to arrive early, or lucky enough to get in, enjoyed the best in cabaret & entertainment from scene stars including Maisie Trollette, Lola Lasagne, Dave Lynn & Rose Garden, while Loose Women’s stars Sherrie Hewson & Carol McGiffen provided some celebrity clout, this spectacular street shindig hosted with the incomparable Sandra, Drag Idol winner, Son Of Tutu made a impressive start to her cabaret career. However, with this prolific party seemingly getting bigger & bigger every year, we are hopeful that the organisers have similar plans to accommodate the numbers next time, as many, ourselves included, came away without gaining entry.
Prolific Pre-Pride Party
With so many clubbers having landed in south London, there was a wonderful winner as a result, many moving in on Vauxhall & Fire for their “Pride Pre-Party”, news hitting our desks pretty quickly that the club enjoyed one of its best Saturday turnouts in many a month, close on 1000 revellers packing out the two rooms of fun, the likes of Mikey D, Fat Tony & Leandro Kloppel rocking the main room, while the delectable DouGuim sorted the sounds in the Ku-Bar lounge, also pulling in the punters with a prolific performance that makes him one of our D.J.’s of the moment. Having played on the “free” theme for a second time, it seems this formula is working, while we know the team have a few plans for Saturday’s up their sleeves, so watch this space for news on those, And with Fire having hosted the “official” post Pride party, Liberation, this last Saturday (2nd July), this coming weekend sees A:M return to its rightful slot, while Alex Erfan takes over the club for the welcome return of Lovechild to the clubbing circuit with their exceptional event “Super Lovers”, DM giving it the full Weekend Focus exposure within his special preview post “From Fire To Fever”. More information on all events at Fire can be found at http://fireclub.co.uk.
Beyond On the Radio
With Sunday seemingly dominated by more alfresco antics as the mercury zoomed close to 30 degrees, Beyond remained reasonably buoyant, though resting our repairing bones meant we could tune into the “Beyond On The Radio” show, savouring the sets we had missed the previous weekend, not least a precision perfect Pitron performance that included tracks, “Offshore”, “Bitch Lady”, You’ve Got The Love”, Music In My Soul”, “Waiting For You” & the Pitron/DM anthem “Stronger”, leaving us in as much of an emotional state as we would have been on our spot, there being no better was to savour a slice of this awesome afterhours, either as a warm up for the real thing, or as a look in on the brilliant Beyond beats, by tuning in every Sunday morning from zero o’clock to 7 a.m., at http://gaydarradio.com. However, we were back at beyond just yesterday (Sunday 3rd July) for their “Super Pride” event and managed plenty of our “Doing The Disco Matt” moves, as well as a number of Nibble Size review tweets, our Full Size Review, “Rapturous Return Erupts Emotions” due out a little later this week.
Last Dance Lamenting
With the usual suspects ending the weekend, Orange sending party heads deep into Monday morning, Monday night saw “Citric” at Ku-Bar & “Popcorn” at Heaven show the scene that it simply doesn’t stop, while our week was fast forwarded to Wednesday, as we gave our night away to social soiree splendour Industri, as it bowed out of the clubbing circuit with its “Last Dance” event, this curtain call on this three fabulous years attracting many of faithful to toast it a fond farewell. And with Minty in charge of the hosting, while the duo of Brent Nicholls & Paul Heron were back together, treating us to a ton of terrific tracks in a back-to-back set to savour, this last ever Industri event in Soho had the feel of Vauxhall days of old, we sitting & quietly observing the shenanigans from the sidelines & then reporting on it all in a Bite Size review reflection, out via direct link http://discomatt.com/web/2011/07/reviews-bitter-sweet-soiree-swansong-industri-the-last-dance-wednesday-29th-june-bite-size-review/. With Minty Brent & Paul promising to be back with a successor soon, it seems the new breed of social soirees, Room Service & Gigolo, will be hogging much of the limelight for now, kind of bringing us full circle on this weekly round-up.
Shoreditch Summer Show
Now to some news and to two alfresco antics that we definitely won’t be avoiding, the first being “Summer Rites Remixed” which takes place this coming Sunday (10th July) in Shoreditch Park from midday till 10 p.m. With over 12 bars & clubs involved including Salvation, XXL, Popstarz, Trannyshack, Meat & Gutterslut, this outdoor event looks to re-emulate those halcyon days when Pride park events were all the rage & Summer Rites itself shone superbly, paving the way for other outings such as “Purple In the Park”. And this “Remixed” affair looks like a corker, all set in the relative intimacy of Shoreditch park in Hoxton, but sporting seven separate dance/entertainment tents, along with a “Bootylicious Bus”, dodgems rides & the usual bar & refreshment facilities, making this “…the latest gay festival to hit the UK, but seeing London’s original boutique clubbing festivals return after more than a decade of never having been bettered, all set in one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the capital…”. Now, while that’s what is says on the tin, we will bringing you our own take on this terrific turn, devoting a Weekend Focus recommends post to the event, although in the meantime, to grab your tickets & for more information now, go now to http://summer-rites.co.uk.
Superb Sunny Sunday Session
Then the following weekend, the focus moves across to Victoria Park as “Lovebox” rolls into town for a three day festival that takes outdoor music eventing to a new level, the gay perspective very much being on the Sunday (17th July) when both Horse Meat Disco & Circus fill fabulous slots in the schedule, but with our eyes also on the main stage as The Scissor Sisters, Blondie, Robyn, Kelis, & Marc Almond star, while Jonny Woo also makes his presence felt. Now, tickets for Sunday are still available via the official Lovebox website, http://lovebox.net, although be warned that the prices are creeping up all the time, standard tickets now at close on £50 while VIP ones are nearly double, but well worth the spend as you get fast track entry, a bespoke VIP area with a cocktail, wine & spirits bar, luxurious (in park perms) lavatory facilities, a dining area selling fast foods from Jamie Oliver’s “Fabulous Feasts” brand & a dedicated music programme thrown in, not to mention preferential seating in the main arena, so very much a bargain in our books. Indeed having booked our place, DM will be there on the Sunday, along with the Pitron posse to report on it all, while a Weekend Focus post will be out sometime this coming weekend.
Right to our moment, our track & our tweet of the week, much of our own action concentrated on the Wednesday night at Industri, although the moment coming from the comfort of our study when we tuned into that Beyond radio show & heard the succession of superb sounds from Steve Pitron’s set, very much erupting us into a pool of tearful emotions, as if we had been right there on our spot, while our tweet of the week came from Industri & the last ever tweet for the club, as we lamented, “…Disco Matt can feel the tears about to erupt as Industri “The Last Dance” plays its last ever record, so now we have to be “Stronger”…”, not forgetting you can follow all our live Nibble Size review tweets at http://twitter.com/discomatt.
Nibble Size Review Tweets
As for our track of the week?, well it simply had to go to the heavenly “You’ve Got The Love” which featured large, not just in that Steve set, but at Industri’s “Last Dance” during Paul Heron’s majestic final minutes of magnificent music, as well as throughout the week & during the creation of our special Beyond inspired music newsletter. Having been given the 2011 treatment by Mark Knight, this classic track is getting airplay on dancefloors here, there & everywhere & has featured in our “Summer Scorcher” top ten list, the full 8 minute version having been released on Beatport just over two weeks ago, but available to view at http://youtube.com/watch?v=QY3rrKnZ58k.
Disco Matt
So, that’s it for another weekly round-up report, with the next one hot on its heels and due out before this weekend, when we will pick up on Room Service’s “WE Party pre-party, Profile Bar, Barcode Vauxhall, The Fire Dance Stage & Beyond “Super Pride” among a host of other bars, clubs & events, reminding you that that if you want us to shout out for your favourite bar, club or event that rocked & rolled in the coming week, then link into us via our main Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon and plaster our wall with your details or then drop us a line now at matt@discomatt.com. (DISCO MATT)
Weekly Round Up Wrapped Up
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: Beyond, Fire, Gigolo, Industri, Kazbar, Ku Bar, Lo-Profile, Marvellous, Popcorn, Room Service, Society, The Clapham Street Part, The Dalston Superstore, The Two Brewers, You've Got The Love | No Comments »
Brazilian Boy Beatmasters
There is little or no doubt that Spain has had its fair share of say on the music of the capitals clubbing scene in recent years, brands Matinee SuperMartXe, Space & now WE Party, very much the overseas invasion of London that has, along the way, sported some real stars, while also serving up plenty of also rans. However, when Brazilian brand, The Week, landed in London last September, there seemed to be a slight tide change, a few figures popping over the parapet & showing the new way & wave of Latin American beats that have also inspired new club Casa Latina, which has its second coming in two weekends time. However, before all that, two of its shining bright new stars will be playing out at Profile & Lo-Profile and tonight (Friday 1st July) no less, this cool clubbing combo hosting a night of Brazilian boy beats, including a “Carioca” themed Society party that should see plenty of Latino’s & their admirers wend their way to Wardour St to savour stacks of superb sounds. So, we thought we would take a look at the two stars, dipping a little into their past & then linking into their latest music creations to give you a flavour of what to expect both tonight & at Casa Latina later this month.
Delectable Doug
First up is the delectable D.J. DouGuim, full name Doug Guimaraes, a native of Brazil of course, having grown up in his home city of Sao Paulo, his early steps into D.J.’ing very much being influenced by the city’s sensation The Week, the likes of Leandro Becker & Renato Cecin inspirations for Doug’s decision to pursue a career behind the decks, he making the bold decision to head for the even brighter lights of London. And not having long landed in the capital he was talent spotted in a D.J. competition held at Ku Bar which pretty much launched him onto the gay bar circuit, earning him a regular residency at their Monday nighter “Citric”, although his big break came when Lovechild’s Alex Erfan teamed up with The Week and in so doing so, gave floor space to Doug at the launch party at Fire, he very much proving his worth with an outstanding opening set which was very much the opening he was after.
Now it seemed the floodgates to his career had opened, spots at clubs within the Orange Group quickly following, not least a regular weekly slot at Beyond no less, Doug’s uplifting & funky yet tech & tribal infused sounds suiting his slot at this awesome afterhours superbly. Since then, DouGuim has consolidated his position within the scene, a break back in Brazil & then gigs across Europe including Paris, Rome & Madrid seeing him drop below the radar for a while, although now back in London, his future is looking very bright indeed, as not only has he gained a new residency for Thursday night social “Soho Chic” at Green Carnation, but it seems, with his debut for Lo-Profile tonight (Friday 1st July), more doors will be opening for the delectable Doug, he having also turned his hand to promoting with Tuesday morning outfit “Open”, while Casa Latina will be another opportunity for him to excel with his Latin infused style of sounds and in front of many of his country folk to boot.
Rythmn Revolution
And in terms of those sound styles, Doug has been no real slouch in the studio, at least compared to some of his peers, having produced ten podcasts in the last twelve months alone, each one showcasing the broad spectrum of sounds & genres Doug dips into, two out of the ten devoted to his appearances for both the Week & for Beyond. However, it was his Casa Latina inspired compilation that really caught our attention, serving up plenty of those Latin funky tones & tribal beats that underpins Doug’s roots & inspirations, but with sufficient amounts of uplifting & accessible tunes that rank it as one of our favourite works of his. However, in his latest release “Revolution”, we see a DouGuim that has grown further into his art, careful selections of tracks taking us on a magical mystery tour, from funky, through progressive, tech & tribal, with enough accessible tunes to keep us glued from minute one to seventy three, he even dropping in “Offshore” in the middle to leave us truly delighted. Yet, whilst we hold our hat on “Revolution”, you can do no wrong by added all the other nine to your collection, by going now to http://douguim.podomatic.com/ and make sure to come see him in action at Society or at future events across the capital & beyond, as this is one Brazilian boy that is really going places.
Junior aka Celso
Now to our second terrific talent, yet one that came as a tad of a surprise when we heard he was turning his hand to D.J.’ing, although Junior Moura finds himself in distinguished company, as his significant other is none other than superstar Steve Pitron, who has without a shadow of a doubt had a tremendous influence on Mr Moura’s decision to dive behind the decks. Indeed, it was a young Celso who saw his future partner in action for The Week in Brazil, a chance meeting bringing them together & forming a relationship that has seen us observe Steve at his happiest in all the years we have known him. But the road to exposure on the bar & clubbing circuit in the capital has been a slightly trickier one for Junior Moura than his compatriot DouGuim, although with the expert guidance from Steve, as well as a couple of brilliant breaks supported by Doug, the spurning talent that Celso as D.J. Junior, has seen him play at Ku-Bar, at Casa Latina’s launch and just this coming weekend sees him play at two gigs in two days, no mean feat for this fledgling disc spinning star.
Away from the bars, clubs & scene, Mr Moura is a very hard working individual, very much earning his keep & stay in his adopted home, while this engaging & handsome young man is also a sporty individual, having played volleyball to a national level for his country, this coming as no surprise when you stand against him, Celso towering over even our lofty height. So, with a seemingly much work & little play schedule, we are surprised he has found time to not only hone his skills of blending beats, but has also laid down two podcasts in the short three/four months that he has turned his hands to D.J.’ing, his first mix very much inspired by Brazilian beats as well as a handful of his favourite tracks, some out of the Steve stable. And listening to his second offering, Junior (we keep wanting to call him Celso) follows a similar trail of tracks, although with much more of a Latin flavour, lots of drum beats, lots of vocals & tribal influences, while a couple of crowd pleasers are thrown in for good measure, a remix of “Sweet Dreams” one example of a few across the seventy minutes of marvellous music on this “Casa Latina” compilation, which you can grab, along “Episode 1”, at http://djjuniorspodcast.podomatic.com/.
Junior Does Casa
As for this weekend, Junior will be playing for the very first time at Profile Bar tonight (Friday 1st July) from 8 p.m., the team very excited about his first inclusion, having been quoted as saying, “…another of Brazil’s best exports will be making his Profile debut, he’s an amazing D.J. & he is ridiculously hot too!!…”, (say no more), Profile having proved a terrific testing ground for fellow D.J., Zach Burns, his exposure there having created opportunities much further afield, while Mr Moura will also be playing tomorrow night (Saturday 2nd July) at Barcode Vauxhall, among a Gay Pride party line up that will certainly get him noticed by peers & a captive audience alike. Then, of course, there is Casa Latina for Junior on Saturday 16th July, meaning that in just these short few months, he is making good headway with surely bigger & better things to come, meaning that we both wish him well with his endeavours & hope to be close by to see him develop behind the decks. (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Music | Tags: Alex Erfan, Beyond, Casa Latina, Celso Moura, DouGuim, Junior Moura, Ku Bar, Leandro Becker, Lo-Profile, Porfile Bar, Renato Cecin, Society, Soho Chic, Steve Pitron, The Week | No Comments »
- Sadness Sitting Out
Finding ourselves at last free from the hell that was a six day stay at St Thomas’, just across the water from Big Ben & The Houses Of Parliament, we were clearly in need of much rest, relaxation & convalescing, especially given the injuries sustained both in our serious accident and those that plagued us while in hospital hell, but watching from the tramlines proved pretty tear jerking, especially missing Beyond on the Sunday morning. However, we did have a small slice of social splendour in a week that saw plenty of activity across the scene, our sit out on much of the rest also not stopping us from taking a look at the highlights of what was another busy week in London town without us.
Ibiza Check-In
So let’s kick off back looking back to last Thursday and the continual clash of the Soho social soiree titans, Room Service reporting yet another week packing out Diu with residents Mikey D & James Pople proving the superb soundtrack, while the focus was also thrown of the new pre-party at Circa on Fifth St, the team reporting a healthy turnout for this launch, Room D.J. Kingsley taking up the music mantle brilliantly and host Peter Breen keeping everyone happy. Naturally both Jodie Harsh & Kris Di Angelis were mixing in with scene faces aplenty & playing up forthcoming partiers, as with all eyes now towards Ibiza, Room Service launching on the white isle this coming Monday (27th June), as well as London Gay Pride just over a week away, it seems the action will be getting even hotter down at Diu with new resident Paul Heron being joined by Severino next Thursday (30th June) and both Jodie & Kris reporting back on the Ibiza launch, more info on Room Service, both in London & Ibiza available at http://clubroomservice.com.
Onto competitor Gigolo, well a little more like a bedfellow in some ways, as it certainly seems that these two Thursday night frolics seem to feed off each other, although there is no doubt that there are enough socialites to go around, promoters David & L.A. Hart reporting another reasonable turnout for their take on the Room Service recipe, drawing on the talents of super Swede, Per Q.X., who made a welcome return to Soho, having been such a tore de force in the heady days of Barcode on Saturday’s. Indeed, Per’s electro tech & funky edged soundtrack made him a hard act to follow at this latest Gigolo jaunt, Guy Williams taking up the mantle with tons on nu disco dance that had the place pumping right up to the end. With the team continuing to transform host Venue Lo-Profile to give this night an extra special feel, it seems that Gigolo’s future seems pretty secure, more info on upcoming events as well as those stunning photo shoots a click away at http://gigolodisco.com.
Summer Solstice Sparkler
Moving on to Friday and while it seemed all quite on the western front in the West End, “Society” at Lo-Profile reporting a pretty quiet night, many other bars around town that would normally be packed, also suffering from the inclement weather. However, south of the river the action was hot, hot hot, as Onyx bathed in the sunshine that was their “Summer Solstice” party, international jetsetter D.J. Wayne G making a rare appearance in London and with wifey Stewart Who to boot, Wayne masterminding the music, while Stewart proved the perfect P.A., wowing the audience with new hit “Bitch” in an exclusive first for anywhere performance, along with the highly acclaimed “Back To The Future”. Plus, with new promoter Verity Mayes taking up the Onyx reigns, we are looking forward to some exciting developments and this coming Friday (1st July) will see the club going head-to-head with afterhours A:M, very much as a London gay pride opener, this hopefully marking our first steps back onto the scene.
Mind you, we did manage to make it out, very much courtesy of fab friend Steve Pitron, who coaxed us away from our four walls down to what is our local, Kazbar in Clapham. And despite criticism waged at us from a fellow friend, Steve’s gesture was not only just what the doctor ordered but allowed us to see exactly what we had been missing for such a long time, as Kazbar proved the perfect spot for a slice of splendid socialising. Mind you, this Saturday, 25th June (today in fact), the picture will be a little different, as half on London will descend onto Edgerley St for the 7th Annual Clapham Street Party, Kazbar no doubt being packed to the rafters. Further details on this suburban spot can be found at http://kazbarclapham.com.
Deviate Beyond Dawn
To Saturday and while there seemed to be plenty of man action going down in Vauxhall, with the macho Megawoof & fetish frolic Hard On!, once again it was Beyond that muscled in on the action with another of their extended “Midnight” parties, although this one also signalled a marriage of minds that surprised us, Pagano deciding to dip his toe into the Orange Group ink, bringing club & record label brand Deviate into play, and despite some mixed messages flowing between Beyond & Barcode, the night proved a huge success, Beyond clearly benefitting from the Deviate influence, although with the former’s all star residents shining, not least Steve Pitron who played out the new Pitron/DM anthem “Stronger” to rapturous reception, we were kind of there in spirit, even shedding some of those trademark tears from our study desk as we simulated our spot. And it seems we will be doing it again this weekend, as Beyond continues its summer season on Gaydar Radio, the midnight to 7 a.m. show this Sunday morning including those sets from last week, by Pagano, Gonzalo Rivas & Hifi Sean, while the final hour will be devoted to a slice from Steve Pitron’s set , which is a listening must by tuning in online at http://gaydarradio.com or by adding the Gaydar Radio app to your iPhone.
But while Beyond was carrying many into Sunday, out east Gutterslut was also having its say at East Bloc, celebrating co-promoter Nic Fisher’s birthday, Per Q.X. once again making his super Swede splash on proceedings. And it seems that the penchant for this wayout & whacky wonderment sees no sign of faltering, as there was a queue round the Shoreditch block to get a piece of the outrageous action, special guest D.J. Ilona also storing the show with a spectacular set, while Jeffrey Hinton packed out the second room with bucket loads of soulful & disco house that worked like a dream. And Gutterslut fans will be getting a further fill of this fantastic frolic, as they take centre stage at the upcoming Summer Rites festival in Shoreditch Park on Sunday 10th July, more info out at http://summer-rites.com.
Helter Skelter Happening
To Sunday and it seemed that Later was the main attraction, the weather being much kinder to promoter Jay Sharp & his team than the previous week which was pretty much a wash-out. And, it seems super Swede Per Q.X. was unstoppable, making yet another welcome return to the mainstream gay scene and to a club where he used to feature so large. Indeed, the memories of his majestic set on NYD back in 2006 still remain vividly clear in our minds and, from what we heard, he stole the show again, fellow Swede D’Johnny also shining bright, this dynamic duo back together and indeed playing an impromptu back-to-back session that had echoes of those Barcode days we mentioned earlier. And with Later looking like being one of the Gay Pride parties to be at next weekend, as they return with another of their infamous “Funfair” events, check out http://allthingsorange.com for more details.
Another Sunday highlight was “Spit Roast” a new night and one for the Shoreditch set, brought to the alternative scene by the team behind S.O.S., a gathering at Blush on Shoreditch High St that saw the like of Jim Warboy, Andy Blake, Liz Bisouk & Ilona International devour the decks with plenty of hiNRG & house classics, while upstairs Shoreditch son Kris Di Angelis & Tom Davey served up stacks of superb sounds while Scottee got up to no good on the dancing pole at this knees up within the confines of East End institution The White Horse. And we like a bit of alternative action, S.O.S. back this weekend, tonight (Sat 25th June) in fact, when East Bloc hosts their “Divas To The Dancefloor” Party with a D.J. line up including, Jim Warboy Andy Blake & special guest Tasty Tim, more details on this & other happenings at the star of Shoreditch, East Bloc out at http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Pumping Party
Rolling Monday through Wednesday into one, highlights included “Citric” at Ku Bar with the delightful DouGuim on the decks, while Popcorn continued to prove that there are plenty of party heads that don’t need to care about work on a Tuesday, or if they do, they push the envelope to its full extent. With the floor having pretty much fallen out of the Tuesday social scene in Soho, G&T consigned to the sidelines, The Eagle in Vauxhall was the place to be, especially if you wanted to see some cute boys stripping down to the all together, while on Wednesday, Ku Bar once again reigned supreme with another “Shinky Shonky” shindig, although transgender bender bash “Trannyshack” built on the success of the previous week when NYC queen Lady Bunny made her mark. More info on events at both Ku-Bar & The Eagle can be found by going to http://ku-bar.co.uk & http://eaglelondon.com, while the websites for Popcorn (http://popcorn-heaven.com) & Trannyshack (http://madamejojos.com/club_nights/tranny_shack/about/) are worth a visit.
In Loving Memory Of Lucas
However, with our week starting on Friday at Kazbar in Clapham, it also ended in SW4, on Wednesday (22nd June) with a remembrance gathering for the already sadly missed Lucas Von Hoff, the turnout on Clapham Common better than we could have dreamed for, Lizzie France performing a moving track as we all attempted to send off green lanterns in memory of a magnificent man lost so prematurely. But with spirits raised, plenty of spirits were consumed at The Loft on Clapham High St, the specially dedicated “Hoff” cocktails going down delightfully and with scores of friends & familiar faces paying their respects, Lucas would have been proud, while we very much echo the tribute cards handed out which included these amazing words, “…you have touched so many hearts in so many ways and so may your memory & legacy live on in all of us…”, meaning that as we mend our broken bones & head back onto the dancefloor & London’s roads, we will dedicate our return to this fine young man lost and very much live the Lucas dream that was to “…work like you don’t need the money, love like you have never been hurt and dance like nobody is watching….”.
Right, before we end with our moment, our track & our tweet of the week, just time to fit in our usual reminder, that if you want us to shout out for your favourite bar, club or event that rocked & rolled in the coming week, then drop us a line at matt@discomatt.com or link into us via our Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon and plaster our wall with your details.
So, in concluding our latest “That Was The Week That Was” review round-up and having made some gingerly steps onto the scene, albeit a reasonable sedate affair at Kazbar in Clapham last Friday, we cannot thank Steve Pitron enough for coaxing us out, as it proved just the tonic our mind body & soul had needed after the previous seven days of trauma, meaning that both our moment & or tweet of the week goes to this superb social occasion. The moment?, well it had to be when both Giovanni & Steve grabbed our cheeks (on the face silly!) and exclaimed “Matt has Buddha cheeks, grab them for luck”, the rest of the Brazilian bunch on hand, including Celso & Sophie, quickly following suit.
Nibble Size Tweets
As for our Tweet of the week, well it simply went like this, “…discomatt has just had some nibble size snacks with Steve Pitron at Kazbar, while he nibble size tweets & begins to feel himself again…”. Now, don’t forget you can follow our “Nibble Sized Tweets”, coming live from a bar, club or event near you, by going to http://twitter.com/discomatt and, with Gay Pride coming up next weekend, we should be out in full tweet force.
Shawnee "Stronger" Taylor
But we simply had to end with our track of the week and one that rounds off a prolific podcast that has dominated our ears for the last five days, as the mighty “Stronger” by Erick Morillo & Eddie Thoenick and featuring the incredible vocals by Shawnee Taylor, has to get our vote. A track brought to our attention just a couple of weeks ago, it quickly established itself as the new Pitron/DM anthem, but one that has seen a whole load of other D.J.’s jump on following the news that Shawnie will be the P.A. at WE Heroes next Saturday (2nd July). However, with the lyrics of the track very poignant to our predicament, which finds us on the rocky road to recovery, also pretty much summing up our week of solitude, this superb song including the lines “…don’t you ever forget that you are not alone…”, “…so when you feel like you have lost your way…”, “….something will show you which path to take…”, “…because you’re stronger, stronger than yesterday…”, you can catch this tremendous & tear jerking track in full club length glory at http://youtube.com/watch?v=jKu1xXY9ESo, while make sure to head to WE Heroes next Saturday, when we will no doubt be spilling those trademark tears to this towering tune. As for the podcast, well you will have to wait for the next in our series of “Colossal Composition Catch Up” music newsletters, which we are about to put together. (DISCO MATT)
Stonger Than Yesterday
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: Beyond, Gigolo, Gutterslut, Kazbar, Ku Bar, Later, Lo-Profile, Onyx, Popcorn, Profile, Room Service, Society, The Clapham Street Party, The Eagle Trannyshack | No Comments »
Finding ourselves on the cusp of the final weekend of the month, whilst the weather is not quite flaming as one would expect in June, it seems that the scattering of showers & unseasonal winds will be behind us as we mark the advent of alfresco antics across the capitals clubbing scene, Gay Pride next weekend followed by a succession of festivals including Summer Rites, Lovebox & SW4, although this weekend is very much the domain of Clapham as it rolls out another street party across an afternoon & evening on Saturday that should see the sun shine right through. But, that aside, there is plenty on offer to pull out the party heads this weekend, so we take a look at our choices of where to be & be seen on the scene across Soho, Vauxhall & elsewhere.
Wardour St Wow
So, to Soho first and we cannot find any other to fill our Best Bite slot than the dynamic duo that is Profile & Lo-Profile, this Wardour St spot still tipping the popularity scales, Profile proving a delight of a distraction from the marauding’s of Compton St & co, especially around lunch time (well 11 till 4 to be exact) when their 2 main courses for £10 offer kicks in, while the bargains continue between 4 & 7, when its happy hour (or is that three!?) with outstanding offers on spirits, wine & beer, plus not forgetting that the bar boasts a considerable cocktail menu for you to plough your way through. However, it is when the clock strikes 8 p.m. each Friday & Saturday that the Profile offer really ups the ante, as a host of resident D.J.’s take their turn spin the sounds & warm you into the weekend in the best possible way. And this week the team draw on two veteran residents to do just that, Brent Nicholls making a welcome return to Profile tonight (Fri 24th), while tomorrow (Sat 25th) it’s the turn of the cheeky Craig Daniels to turn up the volume & the terrific tunes heat. But with much more on offer, why not check out http://profilesoho.com & make sure you book a date with Profile this weekend.
Splendid Soiree
Downstairs and Lo-Profile have another fun filled weekend and are still smarting from a gyrating “Gigolo” last night, this new(ish) Soho social splendour having found its feet among the competition, D.J.’ Nathan Six & Jamie Head very much flying the Lo-Profile flag not least as they are residents of both the bar upstairs & the club down. But it’s the weekend we look to and tonight’s session of “Society” which sports another two favourites of Profile that make the transition downstairs and look like packing in the party heads, Nick Evan’s uplifting & vocal beats sure to get “Society” going swimmingly, while the cute yet capable Zach Burns follows up, this young man having come of D.J.’ing age really quickly & proving himself more than equal amongst his peers. With “Society” very much being the place to be seen on the Soho scene, this should prove another successful night for the Lo-Profile team. Then on Saturday (25th ), its straight forward dynamic dancing, as D.J.’s Rob Sykes & Alessandro Londra spin the supercharged sounds, definitely making this Wardour St hangout a hot ticket, more details on the venue available at http://loprofile.com.
Now to some Short Shouts and first news that after much conjecture & delay, the team behind Freedom that bought Barcode on Archer St back in April, will be making considerable changes at the end of this month and turning the venue into a private members club. So, it seems an era in the Soho social scene is finally coming to an end, although we feel it a real shame that the departing Barcode team couldn’t see their way to throwing a farewell party, especially considering the huge amount of loyal customers that have supported it across the years. However, you can wave a fond farewell to club night Industri this coming Wednesday (29th June), more details on that coming up in our weekly round-up.
But while Barcode may be on the way out, Ku Bar is definitely still packing them in, a full weekend of party including their “D.J. Debut” night tonight (Fr1 24th), hosted by The Very Miss Dusty O, while on Sunday (25th), its Lady Lloyd’s turn to sparkle in the spotlight with her “Hit Factory” party. More details on happenings down at Lisle St can be found by going to http://ku-bar.co.uk.
Back into the centre of Soho and The Shadow Lounge find themselves a week or so away from celebrating ten years in the business and have extensive refit plans ahead of the celebrations, meaning their doors will be closed for a couple of days next week. However, its business as usual this weekend, with favourites “Therapy tonight (Fri 24th) & “Inferno” tomorrow, with more info on this sophisticated spot out at http://theshadowlounge.co.uk.
Pride Warm Up
Right onward to Vauxhall and our Best Bite goes to the Orange Group again this week, not least as they are once again treating us to another freebie, this time a Saturday night shindig at Fire, very much as a warm up for their massive Gay Pride schedule of events next weekend. So this Saturday (25th June), the team throw a special Pride warm up party in association with Ku Bar, all in aid of raising funds to help keep London’s Gay Pride free. And masterminding the music at this pre-pride party will be the might of Mikey D, Paul Heron & Leandro Kloppel turning up the heat in Fire’s main room, while the lounge will be a Ku Bar affair with the delightful DouGuim & guests spinning the sounds. Now, as we said, entry is free, but you need to be in between 11 p.m. & 1 a.m. to benefit from this outstanding offer, but it is a night in benefit of Pride, so suggested donations of £1 will be welcomed and given the fact that special drinks offers including £1 shots & £2 beers will be running throughout the night, this is a event that certainly won’t burn a hole in your pockets. However, Saturday night aside, it’s another busy weekend for all things Orange, with club nights Onyx, A:M, Later, Booster &, of course, Orange rolling out their weekly sessions, while Beyond will surely prove popular again this week, after a spectacular showing last when it joined forces with Pagano’s Deviate club & record label brand. For full details of The Orange Group events & details of guest list offers, go to http://fireclub.co.uk/gayparties and keep your eyes peeled for our extra special Orange Group focussed Pride preview, covering all the info you need on events stretching from Friday through Monday next weekend.
Now to some Vauxhall Short Shouts and The Eagle have another corker of a weekend, “Tonker” tonight welcoming special guest D.J. Joe Publik to the decks as Tim Jones & his team play homage to all things army with their “Uniform Night”, while they will be making the most of the warming weather with a free bbq in the giant garden space. Then tomorrow (Sat 25th), Eagle takes on a “Carpet Burn” feel with promoter Martyn Fitzgerald headlining a guest list of D.J.’s & performers, while “Horse Meat Disco” is sure to pack them in again this Sunday (26th). More info on The Eagle can be found at http://eaglelondon.com.
Now, the venerable institution that is The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (The RVT) roll out three classics this weekend, the magnificent “Marvellous” back for more tonight (Fri 24th), with D.J. duo Jonny Slut & Dawn Right Nasty serving up a mix of punk, soul, disco & rock rhythms & with Joan Dairy Queen hosting, while on Saturday (25th) Amy Lame is back with the iconic “Duckie”, no weekend being complete without a full-on onslaught of The Dame Edna Experience at “S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out” on Sunday (26th). Further details of these & happenings throughout the week can be found at http://thervt.org.uk.
Alfresco Antics
So to our alternatives and as we hinted at the top of this Recommends report, the attention goes all alfresco for the next few weeks, this coming weekend no exception as The Clapham Street Party takes centre stage tomorrow (Sat 25th)and with the forecast looking quite healthy for, at least, a dry & sunny day if not quite the smeltering Sunday we are expecting, SW4 should see swarms of street party heads make their way down to Edgerley Road, where, if last year is anything to go by, they will be faced with a street bursting at the seams, everyone clamouring to get close to the stage to see a succession of cabaret artists, drag queens & singers perform from the 3 p.m. start through until a dusky 9 p.m. end. And with a line-up that includes Sandra, Rose Garden, Lola Lasagne, Lizzie Drip, Maisie Trollette & Dave Lynn, it will definitely be one for drag queen fans, but with the action actually starting a little earlier than that, as host venue Kazbar opens its doors a 1 p.m., with a list of D.J.’s as long as our arm playing plenty of pop & disco to delight, while the cocktails, Pimms & other refreshments will be flowing from both the bars inside & out. However, this community event, which has slowly grown in stature & is now in its 7th year is also very much about giving, as it supports charity causes The Albert Kennedy & The Eddie Surman Trusts, two HIV causes very close to our hearts, meaning we cannot re-enforce the minimum donation of £1, hoping you will dig even deeper into your pockets, especially given all the exceptional entertainment coming your way for free. With much more to say still, we will be bringing you an Extra Bites post a little later, while for more information you can always visit http://kazbarclapham.com.
Now to some Short Shouts and firstly we have to report that due to issues with inbound guest stars from The States, Circus, which was due to take place tonight (Fri 24th)has had to be postponed. While the team could have found stand-in replacements for Kazaky, who were to headline this hedonistic happening, both Jodie Harsh & Kris Di Angelis agreed that they would prefer to re-schedule in order to get Kazaky across, especially given this will be an extra special party at the super swish Cafe De Paris. So, keep your eyes peeled right here for news on the re-schedule, which as soon as we hear, you will too.
Next up and an alternative spot that sports two new nights in one weekend, The Dalston Superstore never failing to push the envelope of extravertism, especially with “Breed” tonight (Fr 24th) with promoter Rex The Dog introducing two new stars to the scene, Ruff US & Bambi sure to create a Superstore stir, while on Saturday (25th), “Sexy Dogs” welcome the likes of D.J.’s Hunee, Rik Moran & Ian Robinson, serving up synth pop & nu disco, the weekend rounding off with another “Tutti Frutti” Squeaky session. For more details on these Dalston devotions, go take a look at http://thedalstonsuperstore.com.
Our final Short Shout goes to East Bloc who have a real hum dinger of a happening this Saturday (25th June), as the superb S.O.S. returns to its regular monthly slot and this month runs a “Divas To The Dancefloor Party” with a D.J. line up that picks the cream of the alternative scene, Jim Warboy & Andy Blake masterminding the main room music but joined by special guest Tasty Tim, while Jack France makes his rubberised clad debut in room two. With the fabulous “Disco Fag Bar” also back tonight (Fr1 24th), East Bloc is the Shoreditch showstopper for sure and well worth a visit, as is their website http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Right that’s just about it for us for another weekend and one that will see us resting our still fragile & repairing bones, so as to make sure we are fighting fit for London’s massive Gay Pride, although we get the sneaking suspicion that Beyond may be beckoning, as long as we take it nice & easy. But we will be using our rest periods to post plenty of reports, including that Extra Bites shout for The Clapham Street Party & a full-on Orange Group inspired Pride preview, so watch out for those. As for your weekend’s, with the sun looking to shine & with plenty of prolific parties to plunder, we hope you make the most of this last one in June, so whatever you do & wherever it finds you, we hope you have a terrific time, leaving us to simply say, “Go There Be There! (DISCO MATT)
Posted in Recommends | Tags: A:M, Alessandro Londra, Area, Beyond, Booster, Brent Nicholls, Circus, Craig Daniels, Disco Fag Bar, DouGuim, East Bloc, Fire, Horse Meat Disco, Jim Warboy, Joe Publik, Ku Bar, Later, Leandro Kloppel, Lo-Profile, Mikey D, Nick Evans, Onyx, Orange, Paul Heron, Profile, Rob Sykes, Tasty Tim, The Dalston Superstore, The Eagle, The Orange Group, The RVT, The Shadow Lounge, Tonker, Zach Burns | No Comments »
Missing In Action
Well what a week we have had, as you may have gathered from associated posts, that we involved in a serious road accident, which was followed by considerable complications while under the care of St Thomas’ hospital, leaving us very much missing in action for the whole of the week. However, with our contacts rushing to our aid to report on the highlights of happenings across the scene, plus with plenty of news to share, having now returned to the safety & security of our home from that hell hole of a hospital, we thought we would take a look back over the week that we missed, but this time just concentrating on some of the real highlights, as well as bringing you news of forthcoming events and dates to add to your own dance & social diary.
Hustlaball With Harsh
So, let’s crack on a take a look at Thursday (9th June) first, Room Service once again seemingly ruling the roost as they played host to Hustlaball for the first of their pre-parties in advance of the main event on Saturday (11th June) at Fire. And it seemed that everyone was out in force to grab their own piece of porn playfulness, while playing to sexy sounds were new Room Service resident, international playboy D.J. Paul Heron, alongside the fabulous Jim Warboy, the star of Shoreditch, touting his tunes for the first time in the west end & lapping it up. With the likes of Austin Wilde & Ricky Sinz providing the porn candy and Jodie Harsh’s incredible ability to pull in scene faces from far & wide and this was Soho social soiree splendour at its best, to add to the new Room Service pre-party shenanigans at Circa where D.J.s Mikey D & James Pople entertained a considerate crowd. To keep abreast of the happenings down at Diu, why not take a peek at http://clubroomservice.com & keep your eyes peeled for news of a special Gay Pride party next week (Thurs 30th June).
That said David & L.A. Hart’s venture, Gigolo, was also having its say across at Lo-Profile, the cute yet capable Zach Burns once again stealing the show with a superb set, while a little bit of east end energy was provided by Spaniard Borja Pena, who, judging by the crowd’s reaction, will be back to Gigolo for more for sure. Into its fifth week and it seems this Thursday night affair has now firmly established itself on the clubbing calendar and this week (Thurs 25th June) Gigolo brings out some big guns in the form of Nathan Six & Jamie Head, both Lo-Profile favourites to sure to pull in the punters. Check out http://gigolodisco.com for more info.
Hustled At Society
Fast forwarding to Friday (10th June) and it seemed that Hustlaball were once again getting in on the act, this time across the other side of Soho at Lo-Profile, promoter Alex Erfan & his team taking over social splendour “Society” and injecting bucket loads of hunk, & funk to proceedings, with more of the pumped up porn stars on show and the superb duo of Steve Pitron & Jamie Head on the decks. Indeed, we could feel the emotion & energy right from our hospital bed as Brazilian Bel was tweeting while Steve played our new anthem “Stronger” to a packed out place, Jamie also having his say in keeping “Society” swinging right through till the 4 a.m. finish. To keep up to date with news on Lo-Profile, not just for “Society” but for their whole weekend of wonderment, check out http://loprofile.com.
Other movers & shakers on Friday (10th June) included Ku Bar on Lisle St who held the first of their D.J. Guest slot competition’s, this being the format that found the delectable DouGuim, while down in south London, The Brixton Clubhouse held their first full Friday nighter “Cafe Del Sol” , reporting reasonable numbers through the door, Tonker over in Vauxhall going all “Escort & Porn Star” on us, flying the Hustlaball flag and loving it. Websites to watch for more action in the coming weeks are http://ku-bar.co.uk, http://thebrixtonclubhouse.com & http://tonker.co.uk.
Fabulous At Fire
Onto Saturday and it came as no surprise to see Hustlaball once again stand in the scene spotlight, taking over the whole (and we mean whole) of Fire in Vauxhall, the stage shows being played out in the mirrorarch room, while the likes of Pagano, Guy Scheiman & Chris Bekker entertained the troops in the main room. With both Bear Necessity & Hard On! able to spread into their own spaces & Jodie Harsh looking after the Hustlaball top brass in the VIP lounge, no less than six rooms were well & truly packed all night, the brand having seemingly once again found its feet in London after a chequered couple of years across at The Renaissance Rooms. With pumping porn star action, plenty of play area’s & testosterone in plentiful supply, both head honcho Jeffrey Davids & London promoter Alex Erfan couldn’t have been more pleased with the result, so are already looking forward to Hustlaball London 2012. Check out http://hustlaball.com for upcoming events & news.
Elsewhere and Shoreditch saw the return of the magnificent “Meat” at East Bloc, the creation of D.J./Producer duo Tom Stephan & Kris Di Angelis, the boys from Q.X. magazine getting in on the act in room two, while Tom, Kris & James Pople rocked the main room with lector underground house that saw a packed out place dancing till dawn. East Bloc has really established itself as THE alternative hangout in town & with Gutterslut having literally closed its doors on a special birthday bash, check out other happenings at this Shoreditch spot by going to http://eastbloc.co.uk.
Beyond On The Radio
Onto Sunday and Beyond didn’t quite seen to sparkle with the Hustlball after effects, the team reporting on a mediocre party that lacked a bit of zing, although they should have been pretty pleased with their first “Beyond On The Radio” show, which went out live on Gaydar Radio from midnight (Sat) until 7 a.m., we tuning into the whole show from our hospital bedside. With sets lifted from the previous week’s party, we enjoyed the likes of Paul Christian, The Sharp Boys, Mikey D &, of course, Steve Pitron, very much transporting us onto the dancefloor and making up for what we had missed. Acting as a brilliant way to warm up for your weekly Beyond fix, why not tune in next weekend by going online at http://gaydarradio.com or by tuning in on your digital radio to DAB frequency 11B.
Other Sunday movers & shakers included “The Jonny Woo Show” over in Shoreditch, “Upstairs” at The Cambria down in Kennington and “S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out” across in Vauxhall, the common theme being cabaret with many trading outdoors for in as the weather was more like autumn than summer and washed out any trace of alfresco activity. With cabaret on a Sunday reporting a resurgence, both The Cambria & The RVT are two great places to pick, detail son both available at http://thecambrialondon.com & http://thervt.org.uk
Stripping At The Eagle
Rolling the next three days into one and Monday (13th June) saw the two usual suspects draw the biggest response from revellers, Heaven’s “Popcorn” packing the place with club kids that clearly didn’t need to work the following day, with “Citric” at Ku-Bar proved the perfect Popcorn prequel, the delectable DouGuim back behind the decks & delighting as always. Then on Tuesday (14th June) it was a choice of strip down at Ashley Ryder’s “Strip Academy” at The Eagle in Vauxhall, or lap up some tasty boy candy at Candy Bar in Soho, while on Wednesday (15th June), Ku-Bar rolled out another “Shinky Shonky” shindig for the alternative party heads, “Trannyshack” accommodating the gender benders across at Soho Revue Bar, “Industri” at Barcode Soho continuing amidst all the changes due at this Archer St attraction. More info on events at both Ku-Bar & The Eagle can be found by going to http://ku-bar.co.uk & http://eaglelondon.com.
Onyx
Right, onto some news and as we reported in our Best Bites & Short Shouts report just this weekend, Onyx has a new promoter in the form of Verity Mayes, who brings a wealth of talent & experience with her, having worked in Brighton for a number of years under the helm of the city’s big clubbing brand Wild Fruit. Joining The Orange Group a few weeks ago, Verity has quickly established herself within the tight knit team, although in taking over promoting Onyx, we are hoping this backroom girl will become much more of a frontline figure in the coming weeks. With plans to leave the Onyx winning formula intact, but to add her own identity to the brand, watch this space for some exciting developments to come.
Deuces
Now to a new(ish) night, also in Vauxhall, although one that pitches itself against the might of both Room Service & Gigolo as it takes place on a Thursday. But that is where the comparison between “Deuces” & its competitor’s ends, as this night is not so much the social soiree sophistication of the other two, but pure & unadulterated music of the house and R&B variety. Now “Deuces” as a brand is established and can already boast a following from many strands of society, from gays, lesbians, straights, students, professionals, black & white, promoter Kartel Brown explaining that “…the concept was always to mix tow different musical scenes together to make one new scene, attracting a very diverse crowd in the process…”. Taking place at Area in Vauxhall each Thursday “Deuces” will be fusing these two musical elements, Kartel will be ably assisted by resident D.J.’s that include Steve Geller (an interesting inclusion given the history with Area), Marlon Goodas, DMS & NG, while the handpicked “Deuces” dancers will be on hand delight. Having launched last Thursday (16th June), watch this space for more news on this latest mover & shaker.
- Summer Rites
Finally to a date for your diary and one well into July but worth noting now, as the sensational of the early noughties returns with a new look & a new identity. “Summer Rites Remixed” will be an outdoor extravaganza not to be missed, although moves from its historical home of Brockwell Park in Brixton, to Shoreditch Park in (yes!) Shoreditch, this “…boutique gay music festival…” making a resplendent return on Sunday 10th July. With brands already signed & sealed including the mighty Salvation, XXL, Popstarz & Gutterslut, local businesses pledging their support and this park party pulling together some of London’s best D.J. talents, along with P.A.’s & plenty more, to re-create the magic of those park Pride parties that we have loved & missed. Now, we are reliably informed that tickets are already selling fast, limited advance £15 ones still available at Prowler in Soho & Expectations on Old St, as well as online at http://summer-rites.com.
So to our moment, our track & our tweet of the week, both the moment & the tweet falling by the wayside this time round as we were very much missing in action, meaning it’s just our tack of the week that takes the limelight, although it is a corker and one that filled our ears for much of our stay in hospital hell. “Starry Eyed” has been tipping our scales on the Beyond dancefloor for a far few weeks now and further came to our attention following its inclusion on Steve Pitron’s “Summer 2011 Vol 1” release, but we only last week realised (to our embarrassment) that it was the brilliant remix work of one Danny Verde, so we leave you with the link to this terrific track, http://soundcloud.com/holabstudio/ellie-goulding-starry-eyed-1, which has soared into our top 10 of the year & will hopefully tip your musical scales too.
Right, that it for another “That Was The Week That Was” report but just before we go, don’t forget, if you want us to shout out for your favourite bar, club or event that rocked & rolled, then drop us a line at matt@discomatt.com or link into us via our Facebook page at http://facebook.com/discomattlondon and watch this space for our next report covering Thursday 16th to Wednesday 22nd June coming up later this week. (DISCO MATT)
Done & Dusted
Posted in Reports, Reviews | Tags: Chris Bekker, Danny Verde, Deuces, East Bloc, Gigolo, Gutterslut, Guy Scheiman, Hustlball, Jamie Head, Jim Warboy, Jodie Harsh, Ku Bar, Lo-Porfile, Meat, Pagano, Paul Heron, Popcorn, Room Service, S.L.A.G.S./Chill-out, Society, Steve Pitron, Summer Rites, The Cambria, The Eagle, Zach Burns | No Comments »
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29 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Less Exclusive, More Inclusive” – Weekend Bar Bites & Club Cuts – Friday 29th to Sunday 31st July
It was just last weekend that we took a serious look at our Weekend Recommendations newsletter, our format of “Best Bites & Short Shouts” having been running for close on six months, although the concept behind it for much longer. However, as we detailed in our report, “Best Bites On ...
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25 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Reviews & Reports – “Mud, Mud, Hideous Mud” – That Was The Week That Was – Thursday 14th to Wednesday 20th July
We sit in our study looking out onto a bright & sunny Sunday afternoon, not a hint of rain in the sky, rather a warm July day that we could have done with at the same time last week, rather a shower soaked Sunday & a muddy meet the order ...
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21 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Reviews & Reports – “Riteous Romp” – That Was The Week That Was – Thursday 7th to Wednesday 13th July
With a hectic London Gay Pride weekend now behind it, the capitals clubbing scene looked like it was taking a bit of a breather, in some ways paving the way for one event to dominate proceedings, all eyes on Sunday & Shoreditch Park for Summer Rites “Remixed” boutique clubbing festival, ...
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15 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “From Latino’s To Lovebox’ers” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 15th to Sunday 17th July
With our heads having been buried in computers & the compilations for well over twenty four hours, our minds are now focused back on the forthcoming weekend and one that looks set to be another purple patch period of partying with two exceptional events on our schedule. However, looking across ...
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8 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Festival Fun Praying For Sun” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 8th to Sunday 10th July
Having taken a break last weekend from our Best Bites & Short Shouts recommendations as we honed in on what proved to be the real highlight of London Pride 2011, The Fire Dance Stage, also wanting to concentrate on our post rather than pre-reporting, putting our much missed full length ...
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4 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Reviews & Reports – “Avoiding Alfresco Antics” – That Was The Week That Was – Thursday 23rd to Wednesday 29th June
Having been consumed in all things Pride, we find ourselves in catch up mode and looking back on the previous week which proved another quiet one in Disco Matt land while we continued to rest & mend our broken bones, although with Wimbledon dominating our airwaves, we had much to ...
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1 Jul 2011 | 0 Comments
Music – “Brilliant Brazilian Boy Beatmasters” – D.J.’s DouGuim & Junior Moura – Friday 1st July – D.J./Music Focus Special
There is little or no doubt that Spain has had its fair share of say on the music of the capitals clubbing scene in recent years, brands Matinee SuperMartXe, Space & now WE Party, very much the overseas invasion of London that has, along the ...
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25 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Reviews & Reports – “Sadness In Sitting Out Scores Of Sessions” – That Was The Week That Was – Thursday 16th to Wednesday 22nd June
Sadness Sitting Out Finding ourselves at last free from the hell that was a six day stay at St Thomas’, just across the water from Big Ben & The Houses Of Parliament, we were clearly in need of much rest, relaxation & convalescing, especially given the injuries sustained ...
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24 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Recommends – “Advent Of Alfresco Antics” – Weekend Best Bites & Short Shouts – Friday 24th to Sunday 26th June
Finding ourselves on the cusp of the final weekend of the month, whilst the weather is not quite flaming as one would expect in June, it seems that the scattering of showers & unseasonal winds will be behind us as we mark the advent of alfresco antics across the capitals ...
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19 Jun 2011 | 0 Comments
Reviews & Reports – “Missing In Action” – That Was The Week That Was”
Well what a week we have had, as you may have gathered from associated posts, that we involved in a serious road accident, which was followed by considerable complications while under the care of St Thomas’ hospital, leaving us very much missing in action for the whole of the week. ...
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