Who: Imperial Leisure
Where: The Lexington, Pentonville Road N1 9JB
When: 6th April
Why: With the new album, Lifestyle, out today, there is no better time to fall in love with the alt-ska fusions of Imperial Leisure. A 14-legged party machine at the best of times, with a new batch of songs to promote this is going to be carnage…that’s a good thing, right? Expect punked up ska, infectious hip-hop, brass led calls to groove and contagious riffs. Not a bad way to start the week if you ask me.
Who: Drenge
Where: Rough Trade East, Brick Lane, E1 6OL
When: 8th April
Why: Some bands are all about pleasing an audience; others take a more selfish path. If you are looking for the former maybe a Mumford’s gig is where you are headed, for the latter, Drenge are the perfect fit. Documenting the desolation, frustration and violence of small town existence through songs with titles such as Dogmeat, Bloodsports and Gun Crazy, Drenge deliver a new take on garage rock though nasty, brutish and pummelling riffs. Mad, bad and dangerous to know? Maybe. An essential addition to the gig diary? Definitely.
Who: Son of Dave, Beans on Toast and more
Where: The 100 Club, W1D 1LL
When: 10th April
Why: For their 2nd Birthday Celebration, This is Now Agency have put together a wonderfully eclectic mix of live music and DJ sets. The funky, one-man, beat box, harmonica eruption that is Son of Dave is joined by the wonderfully shambolic, kitchen sink philosopher and gutter-folk singer Beans on Toast. Too Many T’s, Gorgeous George, Frankie Forman and Houdini Dax also appear, some playing live, some spinning tunes. Who knows what you are going to get, but an amazing night is assured.
Who: St Pierre Snake Invasion
Where: The Unicorn, Camden, NW1 9AA
When: 11th April
Why: Black Sixteen host their regular Somewhat Damaged night at one of Camden’s hottest live music venue. Everyone should experience The St Pierre Snake Invasion at least once in their lives, and this is your chance. Frenzied, witty and passionate vocals mixed with an onslaught of alt-rock and an amazing stage presence are just the tip of the iceberg. Black Sixteen add dark grunge to the mix and Death Koolaid and Black Type Reputations complete this hard, heavy and edgy package.
Who: Infinity
Where: The Qube Project, Victoria, Street, Victoria, SW1E 5NE
When: 11th April
Why: For a real change of atmosphere from the live band circuit, The Qube Project ticks all of the right boxes, less of a club night and more of a playground of atheistic pleasures. Combining 3D video mapping, art installations and a state of the art sound system, The Qube Project is a template for the future of nightclubs, a fusion of the hip and contemporary with the cool and futuristic that goes a long way beyond a mere music experience. Deep house sounds are provided by cutting edge DJ’s including none other than CUFF records Sirus Hood.
Whether you are looking to attend these events or the hundreds of others taking place in London this week, be sure to check Dingo first for the best deals on tickets and a one-stop shop for easy access to London nightlife.
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