After a very early start on Saturday morning for work, it was crucial that I had a siesta in the afternoon. I believe that they, among other things, are underrated. By the time I had woken up, made myself look acceptable (a lengthy process), and had a few glasses of cask wine (all class),  I was more than ready to go to Rendezvous at Le Panic.

Le Panic is normally a quick walk across the park for me, but on this occasion I had decided to wear heels as I am well aware that the venue has strict dress standards which must be adhered to. I would have been an odd sight walking across Rushcutters Bay: the tourists on their way to the Yacht Club could have easily mistaken me for a giraffe in ski boots. I did eventually arrive safely: note to self that cabs are sometimes worth it.

My plan was to pop into World Bar for a cheeky beer on the way. As much as I would love to live the champagne lifestyle on the beer budget, it is sometimes not possible, and the drinks at World Bar are more within my price range. Alas, it was not to be. Le Panic was already boasting a queue on fine young things, and I realised there would be no roguish pit stops.

The lighting of the venue is a lot softer than it use to be before the renovations, and the décor has charm now. The wall paper is attention grabbing, as is the lay-out. It is not only the aesthetics which have been given an overhaul: the sound has improved tenfold.

The music for the evening was exactly what was promised. Funky, deep, jackin’ house music. Mitch Buchanan was warming up the crowd when I arrived, and was followed by DJ Frisky. DJ Frisky played a great set: definitely a crowd pleaser. I saw plenty of people arriving at the venue, but saw very few leaving; the dance floor would have been in pain the next day.

I then headed out to the back room to see DJ Tim Rae. I have seen Tim DJ on various occasions over the last year, and every time I am more impressed than the last. On this occasion he was playing chilled funky house, which was totally aligned with the chilled funky room. His mixing was smooth, and track selection consistent with the mood.  The crowd was definitely enjoying it. Shame there was not really room to dance.

Next up in the main room was Tom Da Silva. I must admit that before he started I did pop next door for that cheeky bevvie. When I arrived back, Tom was about to start. I was in a state of shock for a few moments: he was wearing a different t-shirt to the one I have seen him in on the last three occasions. I was beginning to think that his t-shirt selection did not have a patch on his track selection. Naturally he got the crowd fired up whilst having a great time himself. He also managed to sustain his mischievous grin the whole time: particularly when the ITM photographer zeroed in on him.

The crowd at Rendezvous was very attractive, and the place generally had a nice atmosphere. I just have one gripe. There were people who had problems getting in who were suitably dressed and were part of the party.  I am not really aware of the machinations of the club, but I think that if you are entrusting people to run a night at your club, you must do exactly that. However, that was the only aspect I found unpleasant.

It is nights like this where you realise that you don’t have to see an international to have a good night. There is an abundance of local talent, and it is always very good, moderately clean fun.