"Credible line ups and unpretentious vibe"

Added Wed 03 Nov 2010 by Leila

The Lexington has firmly established itself on London’s gigging map thanks to some very credible line ups and an unpretentious, friendly atmosphere.

It’s conveniently located on Pentonville Road, tucked away from the brashness of Upper Street yet still close enough to all the action. The ground floor bar oozes American turn-of-the-century charm (think large chandeliers, thick red curtains and red velvet armchairs); one half expects a troupe of can can dancers to emerge and start wowing the audience with incessant high kicks.

Instead, a suited compere is hosting a pop quiz courtesy of Rough Trade, and tables are filled with eager contestants chewing pens while pondering answers to questions like “What is the name of the 1983 album by The Fall to feature Mark E. Smith’s wife on vocals for the first time?” (Answer: Perverted Language).

Music trivia aside, the upstairs is where the gigs take place. Hotly tipped bands and cult favourites are featured here as enthusiasts and music industry bods turn up to check out the new talent. The room has a capacity of 200 and a sound system capable of blowing delicate eardrums, but that’s part of the appeal.

Hungry punters can head back downstairs and sample the American-infused, somewhat stodgy fare on offer: burgers, ribs, fish fingers and jerk chicken complement the long list of American beers and bourbons.

A relaxed locale with slick line ups and heart-attack inducing food = a perfect evening.