Speakeasy was the Friday night offering at Paddington’s Grand Pacific Blue Room, and I must say it was an unexpected gem. The real Prohibition era ambience was felt straightaway on the walk up the sweeping wide staircase and into the seamy, plush-red bar. Tables were jammed with cool cats in low-slung hats, covertly enjoying smuggled take-away and suspicious-smelling cigarettes. The groovy crew from Floating Point was kicking back, enjoying the performances of some of the finest artists on their label. First up was Mako, spinning lazy beats with a bit of a sexy feel.
Low-key pulsating rhythms activated the early evening atmosphere, the perfect accompaniment to conversation and start-up drinks – which were pricey. But the Blue Room has a killer specialty that’s worth every penny – absinthe, served in clear mugs and laced with liquefied sugar. After the barmen spark up and serve the drink they make you down it in one shot where you’re standing, but the hard part wasn’t that so much as making my way back to the table afterwards on wobbly legs. If you’re looking to have a dance at any stage of the night, I strongly advise that you steer clear of this wicked concoction. Mmm, buzz.
Next on the decks was Rob Somatik, who upped the ante a little with some playful disco-bop tracks. These served to finally tempt people onto the dance space, which stayed full pretty much throughout his lengthy set. He played through a variety of different styles, from sonorous electro through to chilled-out breakbeat, all mixed with the impeccable timing that is his hallmark as a DJ. The mammoth set was topped off with some highly original selections with a clean electronic edge.
2am and the club was still teeming with beautiful people. It was all hands on deck with everyone crowded around the turntables, except for me with my dysfunctional limbs. Bass Kleph carried on where Somatik left off, limbering up the dancers with some deep, deep house. He was very much in his element during his live set, dishing the tunes up with flair and playing to the crowd. Interesting and uplifting tracks showcased his refined tastes and technical skill. I would have loved to stick around to see more of his set, but alas, the Green Fairy got to me and tickled me out the door. I recommend you look out for Bass Kleph’s upcoming single ‘Bonx’, though, out this month through Floating Point. Seriously solid stuff.
