Archive for October 2016

The Corsica Studios Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

Corsica Studios is an independent arts organization where you can enjoy a variety of music nights, a night gallery and so much more. This venue is home to many of the capital’s finest events, parties and club nights.

THE Club

Corsica Studios is situated beneath two railway arches and has a total capacity of about 500, which is spread across all areas. The live music and bar area will accommodate about 300 people and the smaller studio about 150. There is also a large terrace and smoking area to the rear of the venue, which is always entertaining in terms of random chats and silent discos. The license for entertainment and alcohol generously runs until 3am from Sunday to Thursday and 6am on Friday and Saturdays.

The Vibe

Corsica Studios feels more like a warehouse than a formal nightclub thanks to its arched railway location, and therefore comes across as less uptight than a lot of the commercialized clubs you may encounter throughout London. Elephant & Castle isn’t the sort of place that captures passing trade and Corsica Studios is definitely a real diamond in the rough. The fact that it’s off the beaten track in an unfashionable area of south London means that it is frequented by people who truly know their music and have made a mini-pilgrimage to pay homage to their dedication. The venue is run by an organisation that converts spaces in creative areas. It is a non-profit organisation meaning that all the takings from the cloakroom and bar are put together to support wholesome London regeneration.

The Music

Corsica Studios constantly represents the best in left field and underground music. The London venue holds a reputation as a mainstay of innovative electronic music. Expect anything from house, techno and bass, including a mesmerizing mixture of all three (post-dubstep). Regular nights include UK garage throwback rave THEM, Bill Brewster's (DJ History, Last Night A DJ Saved My Life) superior house and disco party Lowlife, and genre-blurring Trouble Vision. The worlds leading underground music show Boiler Room is also broadcast live across the world on a weekly basis from Corsica Studios. Boiler Room showcases the true superstars in underground EDM from Thom Yorke, Four Tet and Nathan Fake to Mathew Dear, Caribou, Richie Hawtin and Jamie XX. It continues to grow with all of the latest DJs wanting to host a 45-minute set in the south London club on a Tuesday night. The events are strictly invite only but with a web cam pointing towards the DJ, an invited crowd of underground dance-music scenesters standing behind, a relaxed vibe and a worldwide audience watching in their bedrooms, Boiler Room certainly caters for everyone’s needs and live up to it’s hype. Drinks are reasonably priced unlike the £5 a beer in many super clubs. Continental beers dominate including Stella, Budvar, Peroni (£3.50), and Modelo (£3.75). Spirit and mixers are £3.50 or £5.50 a double, a glass of wine is £3.50, while shots (sambuca, tequila, Jagermeister) are £3.

The Area Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

The usual night of clubbing for a Londoner: start at 10pm, dance and drink the night away, get home around 4 or 5am before passing out in bed, or, if you're less fortunate, the toilet. But what if you want to keep going, or even just start out later (much, MUCH later) than 10? You go to Area, of course. This club is perfect if you don't want the party to end at 3am or if you want to start your evening a lot later than the London club standard. And if you're the type that falls asleep easily than no worries; the light show and sound system here are sure to keep you awake.

The Club

While the club's name is definitely lacking in creativity, we would say it's still quite fitting. As short as it is, it's descriptive; this club takes up quite a bit of space. Six rooms and five bars make up this maze-like club, so it covers a rather large area. There are flashing lights, lasers, and LEDs, making it an epileptic's worse nightmare but hey, if you're really into light shows pulsing with the beat while you shake your arse then you must come down here. Sometimes it can be a bit spendy to get in, but often if you have a flyer they'll make an exception for you and lower the price.

The Vibe

Remember when your mum told you not to judge a book by its cover? We do it anyway, but you will want to listen to your mum when you're going out to Area. From the outside this place looks like it could be a warehouse, but inside you have a variety of sweaty people; gay, straight, trans, it doesn't matter as long as a good time is had by all. With this new information you're thinking that there would be a divide in the crowd and are about to head out the door because conflict in a club is never good. Wrong again. Everyone here is rather friendly, making it a break from the usual high-end snobs you're used to at clubs. Make sure you call your mother and tell her thank you for that advice.

The Music

Many of London's famous DJs have been to Area to lay down some amazing sets, which often consist of a mix of electro and techno with sometimes a hint of Brazilian beats. We know you think that could make an odd combination, but trust us on this one; it works, and it works well. Their DJs change, so check out their website when planning, but we can ensure that any night out with Area's spectacular sound system is going to be a hit. Unfortunately, the booze here can get a bit on the spendy side. Hey, they have to make a profit somewhere, and if they're letting all of these people with flyers in at a discount it has to be made up. You can still get a single bottle of beer or Bacardi Breezer for a fiver. But if you are intent on burning a hole in your pockets, we suggest the champagne. Those holes are useful to the rest of us trying to scrape up some change.

The 100 Club Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

The 100 Club is one of London’s heavyweight live music temples and has attained legendary status in modern British music, having played host to live music all the way from back in the day from 1942. The club continues to attract a mob of music fans with its distinctive decor and historic vibe. It may be small but sometimes that pays off (have you see Bernie Ecclestone's ex wives?), the vibe is second to none, even if you're technically dancing in a sauna. But we can't imagine you'd complain, you dirty boy!

THE Club

This iconic music venue has a blink-and-you'll-miss it doorway leading to a what-you-see-is-what-you-get underground bunker. Handily they've made it simple to locate by naming the club after the address (imagine that speedy boozy marketing meeting). Once you've gone/fallen (delete depending on how pissed you are) down the stairs, you'll be surprised at how small the venue is, the capacity peaks at a miniscule 350, and how amazing it would have been to see big bands like The Rolling Stones play here. The decor remains unchanged since the 1970s; a red theme runs throughout and the walls are adorned with a sea of iconic musical photography. With a glance at the raised area that only just passes for the stage situated immediately in front of you, the sole bar to your left and the toilets to your right, you'll have seen all there is to see of this charming bunker, making this one of the most intimate gig venues in the country. It's a bit like getting the band to play a private gig in your parents garage, just without the noise complaints, mum offering everyone tea, and dads awful awful dancing.

The Vibe

Depending on which musical venture mans the stage will typecast the clientele inside this music-only venue, but whether it be progressive rock and roll or the latest EDM offering, everyone is there for one thing: alcohol & sex the music. The staff are refreshingly laid back and cool, plus security are always on hand to ensure that everything is under control; if controlling a throbbing mas of sweaty twenty somethings is possible throughout this limited club space. As a result of the excellent management and music driven crowd, 100 Club makes for a beautifully intimate and exciting experience. Check their website for upcoming shows, they have a few surprises up their sleeves.

The Music

The White Stripes, Sbtrkt, The Rolling Stones, James Murphy and Florence and the Machine are but a taste of the high profile acts that have graced the stage of this famous London haunt throughout the years. Although it mainly plays host to big bands, the 100 Club also hosts an array of eclectic club nights with DJs such as electronic producer John Talabot, psychedelic quartet Django Django as well as hip-hop musical and visual project Gorillaz performing for one night only. As well as musical royalty, the club has also attracted high profilers like Johnny Depp, who joined Alice Cooper onstage last year - yeah we aren't sure why that happened either, but whatever. 100 Club is a no frills venue, selling a basic selection of beverages to tickle your taste buds, just don't expect to be able to order a cosmopolitan at the bar 1) They definitely don't have Martini glasses 2) You're name is NOT Carrie Bradshaw. Keep it basic and order a beer dude. They might come in the can, but that's the just laid back vibe here. First rounds on you, don't forget the shots of tequila!

The 151 Chelsea Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

If you're looking for a club to pull at and you're in the Chelsea area then 151 may be just right up your alley. Sleazy and full of posh totty this is the place to go if you truly want to experience the Eton version of London clubbing with Tarquin, Tamara, and Terence. Though along with what maybe the Brixton crew could consider a downer to their evening there is a SERIOUSLY good time to be had on the dance floor with some pumping music and beautiful girls/boys no matter which way you turn your head. So pretty that if you don't pull you'll definitely be getting hot under the collar. Best to put some ice on that.

The Club

Two small rooms underground make up this nightclub; one a sitting area with tables and chairs and another with a dance floor for your chance to dance the night away. And the dance floor, while small, has this ridiculously large mirror, so you can check your make-up without even having to visit the toilets. Just don't get too carried away looking at yourself; no one wants to see you snogging your own reflection. Not to mention you'll miss all of the beauties. And that's the good part of this mirror; you can stare at more of them all at once.

The Vibe

No matter the age, people seem to love 151. From people who have been going there for years to the young and restless this place suits nearly everyone. Dress here is pretty laid back, just don't show up in your pyjamas and expect to be let in; maybe if it's a themed party that'll fly. Or if they're sexy. And while it claims being unpretentious, it's Chelsea; of course it is going to be filled with people richer than you. Amusing rich peeps though, and attractive to boot. Just make sure you know what age you're coming to pull so you don't end up taking home some jailbait, unless you want your picture in The Standard. Mug shots are never that flattering. - PS. Yes they require ID at the door.

The Music

UK's Top 20 while sitting in the car on a road trip? Eh, it gets your there, but it is so damn repetitive. UK's Top 20 in the club surrounded by sweaty bodies that move to the beat? Better. There's just something about dancing the night away with a group of like-minded people that are enjoying themselves that make your night. Popular tunes of today are the feature, and let's face it; Lady Gaga's 'Applause' is always better than your off-key relatives singing a chorus to the made-up hit 'Are We There Yet?' And drinks can get expensive. Luckily 151 has deal nights to help soften the blow. Tequila Tuesdays bring everything tequila-based down, and if you come to Ladies Night on Thursdays girls get a free drink. And they say feminism is dead... But don't worry guys, try flirting for drinks, the girls have been at it for years and it works!

The 229 Venue Guestlis and Table Bookings

 

229 is a multi-purpose entertainments venue which first opened its doors waaaaaaay back in 1965 (seriously ask your Dad). Since then the venue has played host to numerous gigs, club nights, weekend festivals and countless music related events. Leave the high heels at home and don those converse stuffed in the back of your wardrobe, things are going to get messy once the snakebite (lage, cider and blackcurrent juice obvs) starts flowing. Besides, as much as we like to believe we could we've yet to field test mosh pits with our Louboutins on.

THE Club

After a major refurbishment and a technical overhaul in 2007, 229 launched once more as a dedicated live music and entertainments venue and in its early days, hosted the likes of Florence and the Machine, Primal Scream and Example to name but a few. Major technical improvements have been made to improve the two room, 760 capacity venue over the past two years including, most recently, the ingenious installation of a D&B PA system (which will blow your bloody ears off) in Venue 1 (620 capacity) and a new stage, PA and lighting in Venue 2 (140 capacity). Over £250k has been invested in the PA and lighting in both rooms and it has certainly paid off, standing next to the speakers is like sitting on the washing machine, titillating for sure, but impossible to hold your drink steady. 229's multi-faceted layout and extensive technical capabilities means it is capable of handling a wide range of events including live music gigs, club nights, private corporate events, live comedy nights, fashion shows, filming, photo shoots and much more. Basically they've been there, done that, and got the T-shirt.

The Vibe

Creating a venue that is respected by clubbers and music lovers alike is a tough task (why are you lot so fussy huh?), but 229 seem to have cracked it as an array of DJs and top bands take turns to play different nights at this low key Great Portland Street club. As a result of this a hugely diversified crowd of partygoers attend 229 on a regular basis and the place is always soaring with energetic boozy ravers. The atmosphere in 229 varies according to which night you go, from a chilled 'Magic Numbers' session to a noisy Tinie Tempah bassline vibe; FYI don't get these two confused whatever you do. Aside from that the vibe is always easy going and friendly while the large space means that there is room for everyone to dance like no ones watching. Although we might be.

The Music

As the 229 club is largely known as a live music venue the artists it attracts are usually globally recognized musicians and artists. Some of those to who have played at 229 to date include: Example, Friendly Fires, Foals, Gnarls Barkley, Biffy Clyro and The Magic Numbers. The blank canvas feel allows both rooms to showcase a whole host of live bands, DJs or both. Club nights range from soul & ska, to electro and rock. Both rooms have decent sized bars and the staff are always friendly. A standard range of beers and spirits are available while lagers and other favourites that are sure to whet your whistle are reasonably priced. Since your here you may as well did the gig ordering move with the drinks. Three beers at a time (drink responsibly - we won't, but you should), down one and carry the other two, one in each hand. You're welcome.

The Nest Guestlist and Table Booking

 

The Nest is a response to mainstream commercial clubbing, boasting the very best in fresh and cutting edge talent. If you love great DJs but hate all the hassle that comes with going to a big club, The Nest in Dalston could well be your perfect night out.

The Club

The Nest as a venue is beautifully charming with cozy alcoves for seating, a dark inhibited dance floor, an intimate capacity for 350 people and one of the best sound systems (Martin Audio) second to Fabric. Combining fabulous kitsch 70’s decor with an industrial basement style, it has firmly established itself as one of the best small clubs in town. The venue is full of intimate cubby holes, colourful neon lights and bare exposed concrete walls which all add up to make a fantastic music and clubbing experience. As it continues to flourish and attract even bigger names, The Nest is definitely one to watch.

The Vibe

Using its industry connections to bring in big names, The Nest attracts a variety of club goers from far and wide. The staff are fashionable, smiley and professional and the bouncers are friendly too however, you may wish to get there early to ensure entry before the club fills up. It is an ideal spot to witness impressive names and quality DJs in intimate surroundings and it comes as no surprise that it has been voted the best bar in Dalston.

The Music

If you’re after progressive electro beats then head to Lemonade, their weekly Saturday affair that aims to combine exciting and progressive electronic music with Dalston’s fun-loving clubbing mentality. Each week their basement disco swells with the sound of dance-floor friendly beats mixed by a selection of the most dynamic DJs. Some of the acts who’ve graced the stage at The Nest include Erol Alkan, Moby, Alexis Taylor (Hot Chip), We Have Band, Yuksek, Busy P, Adam Freeland and Toddla T. With such an impressive history in it’s short existence, The Nest is sure to get bigger and better as they continue to develop and grow as a club. The crowd are often more about the music and less about the drinks, so a simple beer or cider usually tickles their fancy, starting from £3.50. If you’re after a good deal however, bag yourself a shot rack for just £10. House spirits (doubles) and mixers are £6.50. Wine is £15 a bottle and more expensive champers is also available if you are looking to splash out.

IndigO2 Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

The IndigO2 is mostly known as a concert venue and many talented artists – one of the latest shows has been put on by Rita Ora - have rocked this stage before. It is pretty much the “O2”s little counterpart and often hosts after show parties. But not too many people know that it also serves as a nightclub, where big events and parties are hosted. Check out this massive venue, that has welcomed some huge TV stars and musicians and party long into the night with around 2,000 others!

THE Club

The Indigo2 is a TV star itself and has been playing host to events like the NME Awards or the X-Factor boot camp sessions. It is half seated, half standing - with a theatre style downstairs area and a large upstairs balcony overlooking the whole scene - and can hold up to 2,400 people. With more than twenty VIP booths, there is enough room for intimacy. The club is spread across three floors and that huge dancefloor in the middle is facing the stage and so big that it almost creates a festival feeling. With such an impressive size, the venue is the perfect place for a nightclub with special events and parties. The best thing is that is it a lot bigger and easier to get to than most concert venues. With that much space to drink, dance and party, the crowd usually goes crazy in here.

The Vibe

Artists like The Black Eyed Peas, Timberland and Ne-Yo have played to the crowd here and club nights like Kiss FMs “Kisstory” have made the place legendary. There will often be after show parties held at the IndigO2 after a big concert finishes at the O2, as it is literally a two minute walk from there. Usually there is no dress code seeing as after jumping and sweating at a concert for two hours, we reckon nobody really looks their best, but some events do request you looking your smartest. To be sure check out the event´s page online. As for prices it also strongly depends on the event and occasion, but usually entry fees aren´t too bad and the same goes for drinks. But you´re sure to have a blast at any event that´s hosted here!

The Music

The music varies depending on what is on that day, but IndigO2 is known for hosting some amazing RnB and Hip Hop concerts and events. Then again, on a club night of course the DJs will mix in some house and chart tunes as well. With five bars situated across three floors, there will be enough booze to keep everyone happy and it also means that you can get a wide selection of drinks – way more than your usual pint during a concert. Be aware of special drink offers and prices, because some events may be more student friendly than others.

The Hoxton Pony Guestlist & Table Bookings

 

With the welcome arrival of the Hoxton Pony, Curtain Street has risen from the ashes, once a forsaken area, and now a clubber’s stomping ground. The venue is a clear demonstration that with a little bit of clever interior design, a team of skilled staff and a mouth wateringly delectable drinks menu, the best things in clubbing life really can come in small packages. With all that said and done, this is certainly no one-trick pony.

The Club

As you walk into the Hoxton Pony the natural inclination is to head down the stairs but it’s worth taking a moment to soak up the wow factor of the upstairs space. A waist to ceiling display case housing stuffed owls and bright green leaves adorn black, white and silver colour scheme and a bar stretches across the far wall. When you’re facing the bar, to the right there’s an open kitchen where the chefs rustle up East End tapas and to the left an installation of a crushed car hangs over the seating and mirrored wall. Downstairs, it’s dark, loud and pulsing. The DJ’s tucked into a nook beneath the stairs, there’s seating to left and right and another long bar is perfectly placed for hopping to when you’re not tearing up the space in front of the decks.

The Vibe

A fashionable and fun mix of drinkers and clubbers are attracted to the Hoxton Pony. It ticks all of the boxes without ever veering towards pretentious. The music is palpitating and encapsulating, the tracks hit the spot time and time again, the mouthwatering kaleidoscopic cocktails flow non-stop and the music is cranked up as the sound of chirpy clubber banter layers across the venue. The bar staff are professional and on the ball while the door staff have just the right amount of rigor to ensure a great night.

The Music

Expect the unexpected at the Hoxton Pony. From day to night the tracks spin seamlessly on a musical mystery tour that spans ska, soul, pop and electronica before dropping in a few vintage film soundtracks and more alternative sounds. The drinks are imaginative and high end while being reasonably priced. The Hoxton Pony infusion jars are a must. Serving multiples of four, you can choose from a base of vodka, whisky, rum, bourbon and gin, which are mixed with fruit juices and herbs to create the most original cocktails you’ll find in Hoxton. If cocktails are not for you then you can easily order a glass of Champagne or a chilled bottle of beer at a standard rate.

The Garage Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

In central London you'll find Islington, with its wide range of clubs and bars that can turn any dull night, including a week night, into an evening of fun. But say you're bored of the same-old when it comes to going out: you want loud, you want a roaring crowd, you want live music. Well look no further than The Garage. Also known as Relentless Garage, many bands have gotten their start here, so why not get a good start to your evening and make this a new hangout when you get that itch to have a good time and listen to something that isn't auto-tuned. Which is probably 80% of music today, but we won't judge if that's all you ever do listen to.

The Club

Two floors make up The Garage; a downstairs with comfy plush seats and a smaller upstairs, both with a rocking sound system and a full bar. It's a great space if you want to really get a good show in for a small price but still require the crowd and volume in order to really let loose. The polished hardwood floors and bright spotlight make this an ideal place for indoor concerts in London; if you've seen 'The Wedding Singer' the similarities atmosphere-wise are there. You just need to replace the cheesy 80's music with modern indie and rock and roll, and then sub the annoying relatives for party-goers looking for a good time.

The Vibe

A mix of people gather at the Garage, and because of its smaller size it can be described as intimate; the dance floor can get crowded and sweaty. So if you don't mind getting up close and personal then this club will work for you. But even if you are the type that likes it when everyone remains a good five feet from your personal bubble (which is all well and good, but those people are few and far between in the clubbing scene) you can still get a good listen towards the back while sipping at your drink. But no one wants to be the Debbie Downer that sits in the back and watches everyone else have fun. What a bore!

The Music

The Garage is well known for mainly two types of music: indie and rock. And it have a pretty impressive musical history. Kings of Leon, The Killers, and The Darkness have all graced the stage here, making it a rite of passage for many bands transitioning from obscurity to fame. Like the quinceañera of the musical world: ridiculously big pink dress not recommended, as it would be difficult to join a mosh pit wearing one. If you're watching your wallet The Garage is a great place to get your drinking on. With vodka tonics for £3.20 and only a bit more for a pint, this is an ideal place to really rock out and have a couple of cold ones after a busy day on the cheap. And since it's often called Relentless Garage you can bet that any sort of booze with energy drinks is going to be using Relentless for a mixer. So if you're not too keen on your jägerbombs using a brand other than Red Bull we suggest using your wings to take you elsewhere.

The Egg London Guestlist and Table Bookings

 

With the best music from the finest DJs from all over the world and a top of the range sound and lighting installation, Egg is a stylish nightclub that combines a variety of indoor and outdoor areas. If you love to dance in a unique space, this club is definitely for you and one that you will certainly be returning to.

THE CLUB

Egg is centrally located in a remote space, which results in a club that can make as much noise as possible without disturbing anyone in the vicinity. The venue is positively colossal with three floors, both inside and out. It makes such great use of space and the garden is definitely the selling point and what makes the place stand out from the crowd; it is a chilled out zone with an Ibiza-esque atmosphere and outdoor seating. The upstairs bar is sumptuously elegant, draped in red leather, while the main dance area on the ground floor has all the character of an industrial warehouse rave. There is even an in house café for when you get the munchies, so essentially, you never have to leave and the 24-hour license means that you are in no way stuck for time to explore your surroundings.

The Vibe

At the weekend, the party starts at around 10pm on Friday and continues well into the early hours of Sunday, shutting only for a few hours in-between. As it plays host to many eclectic nights, the clientele attending Egg can range considerably from one night to the next. The staff are accommodating to whoever comes through the doors and, because of the relaxed dress code, there is a welcoming and unpretentious vibe.

The Music

Although Egg tends to satisfy those with a musical taste for all things house, the venue offers an assorted mix of nights to suit every dance fan. Across all three floors your ears can indulge in a extraordinary range of diverse and eclectic sounds. Fridays are a colourful mix of drum and bass, breaks, deep house, glitch and electro, while Saturdays generally embrace a house and techno soundtrack. Notable guests who have graced the stage at Egg include Pendulum, Carl Craig and Felix Da Housecat, to name but a few. A respectable assortment of alcoholic beverages are on offer at the bar, all within the price range of £4 - £5 and, if there’s a themed night, you can expect an even more exciting array of cocktails which you can sip on the elegant surroundings of the terrace.