Amanda Gegg ventures down the rabbit hole... and finds a big free rave.
So it's 11.30am on a Sunday morning and, I'm not going to lie, walking down Brick Lane dressed as the Queen of Hearts feels slightly odd. We're on our way to the Mixmag 'Mad Hatters Free Party' at Vibe Bar and we've been told that showing up early is a must.
As we weave our way through the rabble of Brick Lane, the brightly-coloured festival flags stand out before we can even see the Vibe Bar. Then comes the mouth-watering smell of the food stalls outside, surrounding a considerably large soundsystem; oh yes, now we understand.
The anticipation in Vibe Bar's immense courtyard is electric as the DJs kick off at 12pm. These guys are actually MySpace competition winners, but hats off to them as they get the party going with some snazzy dubstep. As soon as the speakers switch on, passers by stop to peer in through the metal gates to see what they're missing out on. Unfortunately for them the only way to get into this party is to sign up beforehand and I can't help but revel in the indirect exclusivity!
As the day goes on, and the sun gets stronger, Jonny Rap Attack and Union DJs start mixing it up with tunes such as the classic Dead Prez track 'Hip Hop' and the tune of the moment; Major Lazer's 'Pon De Floor'. If Mad Hatters is the theme of the day, then this is the song of the day as every DJ goes on to include it in their set. Only a certain type of song can get away with this, so it's clear it's going to be a winner for the summer. This, alongside some other old skool classics make it more and more packed outside, with the mini dancefloor in front of the decks growing further and further outwards.
One thing's for sure; summer has arrived. And even though I'm roasting in my costume, dancing to Tinashe's PA, it's impossible to stand still. Then, low and behold, there comes a familiar sound; the screeching of an air horn, which is the trademark of a certain someone... Mr Kissy Sell Out. Mixmag couldn't have thought of a better person to headline their free rave as he blasts out his reliable, well thought-out selection of electro-heavy remixes. The set is reminiscent of his recent gigs with a mix of Herve, Queen and Michael Jackson but he knows this is what the people want to hear. And when you're dancing in the sun with a group of ravers singing 'Beat It' in your face, who's complaining?
Click here to see all London DJ music.
Click here for things to do in London.
Return to Spoonfed's London Clubbing homepage.
Add an event
Frieze Art Fair to launch new section for young galleries in 2012
Frieze have today announced details for the 2012 edition, their tenth art fair in London. Taking place...