The eclectic music programme at Notting Hill Arts Club has been attracting London’s music fans, W11 residents and savvy A&R bods for over a decade. The bill is as likely to fit hip hop and dubstep as it is indie and electro, and that’s all in one night. Regular events include Alan McGee’s Death Disco indie grooves on Wednesdays, while Sunday’s Disco Geisha features geishas swinging their hips to house and electro.
Thursday night is YoYo, when an assorted, hip hop-friendly selection of bands take over. The bouncer on the door chats incessantly on his mobile phone while barking at the rapidly mounting queue for ID, in keeping with the club’s policy to scan on entry.
Those who are on the guestlist (which seems to be the majority) explain they weren’t informed of the requirement, but the bouncer is adamant, even picking up a sign with “ID required” on it and waving it around to further make his point. He’s too busy having a natter over the phone to speak anyway, unless it’s to ask the waiting punters for cigarettes or tease the ladies about the photo on their driving licence.
After much to-ing and fro-ing the doors finally open and we’re let in “this time only”. Hopefully this silly episode is a one-off, however it’s a shame and an unnecessary annoyance - who wants to start their night in a grump?
Once we finally get down the stairs, the club itself is deeply inviting. There are two areas, divided by the circular bar; one has alcoves containing leather couches and tables, on the other side sits the small, raised stage and a space to dance.
It’s intimate and cosy, thanks to dim lighting and the cavernous feel the exposed concrete walls and graffiti create. The drinks veer away from the usual with Asahi and Lapin Kulta bottled beers (£3.50) and a cocktail list that includes chilli and cinnamon martinis (£6.90). Daily happy hours offer glasses of house wine and beer for £2.30.
Door niggles aside, this charming club has much to offer music lovers, just remember your ID.
