The casual pub atmosphere of the front half of Miss Libertine hides a speakeasy within. Venture into its bowels and the grey-stone walls promise much mischief. What once must have served as an outdoor area has been closed in to contain our excitement. Sadly only a smattering experience the minimal warm-up grooves of Digital Primate. A lone dancefloor enthusiast hoists her skirt up in early appreciation; I want what she’s having but not just yet!

Apparently Hi-Tek is the name of an R&B DJ – or so a group of ill-advised fellas who’ve fronted up to see him tell me. They leave just as Pullen hits the decks, confused and depriving themselves of aural salvation, Detroit-style. Not that Stacey has any trouble ‘pullen’ a crowd! It’s our prerogative to witness this legend at close range – a consummate entertainer. The white shirt and tie combo he’s sporting serves as a fetching reminder he’s our master of ceremonies. No knob is left untweaked, he even cranks up the console as if it were a chainsaw!

The seasoned punters writhe and roar whenever Pullen clears the air. Overwhelmed by his sheer brilliance there are multiple attempts at stage invasion. Security! An old school vibe where music is the focus is refreshing and even my time spent in the toilet queue proves enjoyable as I observe a male munter’s endless requests for eyeliner. As I emerge from the cubicle he has found an accomplice and is perched on the basin whilst full make-up (including red lipstick!) is carefully applied.

Taking advantage of one of Pullen’s trademark extended teases, I propel my way through the dancefloor towards the bar. All hands are in the air but feet mark time – waiting for drop-demolition. The wait proves excruciating for one gentleman I pass who calls out to our dementor, “Take me there, Bitch!” A catchcry for peaking punters!

Pullen’s joy is infectious. His fondness for rumbling rarities guarantees satisfaction. It could be my imagination, or the fact that if you can sing a melody over the top of a track it suddenly becomes the instrumental version, but I think I make out “These sounds floating through my mi-ee-eye-ee-ind”. There are smiles in abundance and many people happily share rostra for a better view of proceedings.

Pullen disappears from view. What? 4:30 already? Panic sets in, rebellion ensues and he’s forced to resume his spot behind the decks for a couple more tracks. The Kosmic Messenger delivers fresh cuts, dripping with soul. If you miss the good old days when the dance music scene was select (circa Savage) stay tuned for the next instalment of Hi-Tek Soul. It will take place on Queens Birthday Eve at the same kicking venue, but this time featuring one of Pullen’s mentors, Derrick ‘May Day’ May.