Description

This intimate live music bar lets you get right on top of the action. Popular with budding talents fancying their chances as performers, bands alternate between rock, blues and folk genres. Actual and self-perceived ability are sometimes gulfs apart, but some acts are genuinely brilliant and will probably graduate from the vice of acoustic rooms before you can say, 'Mama I got them deep down blues'.

It's not the trendiest of places, but this is intended as a compliment. Decor is simple predominantly white with worn wooden flooring and mirrored walls creating the illusion of a greater space. Fundamentally it provides an opportunity for bands to play in the hub of the capital where they might get spotted, and allows punters to return to the essence of bar room music: up close, gritty and sincere. Pick the right band and there's a lot of fun to be had here. The door charge is minimal, although drinks prices bespeak the Soho location. Owner Dennis is there most nights to greet you with his broad East-end-come-Mediterranean smile.