Blow Up
The Wag Sat
Crossing Leicester Square on a balmy Saturday night is like writhing through an obstacle course, knocking over canvases and bongo players, and edging past masses deliberating how to fritter away their time, while the Swiss Centre clock chimes 'We Wish You A Merry Christmas'. Steer clear of the chain bars and target the seven-hour blow-out that is Blow Up.
Though the Wag still evokes a decadent '80s playground, Blow Up is a very 'now' affair, in terms of the '90s being the '60s upside-down. It's cheeky fun. An image of Robin Askwith looms overmulti-national, mostly young clubbers, and enthusiastic DJs spin anything from Propellerheads to 'The Two Ronnies' theme! Dancers exemplify reeling Northern Soul moves to the
'Pan's People On Tartrazine' look.
Blow Up runs a record label, and the night provides an opportunity to watch a variety of new and established live acts. Frankly, the venue doesn't boast the greatest sound system, but Rialto and Momus both recently played entertaining sets. Upstairs is the domain of James Karminsky's crew, reigning supreme with easy listening platters. Just try not to stumble on the spiral staircase to this psychedelic lounge.
One setback is that the atmosphere can become uncomfortably smoky - revamp that ventilation! Still, it's a handsome venue, especially the zebra-patterned hallway, and it boasts the added novelty of windows; peering down onto Wardour St's bustle is strangely comforting. A swinging sanctuary slap bang in central London. Arwa Haider