Welcome to this blog of mine...
In the last week or so, I, and my colleagues have been discussing venues and the like. Many people would agree that the smaller, more intimate the venue, the better but I feel slightly different when it comes to music venues - when I am at a show I like to feel the crowd around me, to feel the crush of ecstatic bodies and the surge of mutual adrenalin when the band (or artist) takes to the stage.
It is for this reason that I choose the O2 Academy, Brixton Brixton Academy as my favourite venue.
Some of you may know this venue, some of you may not but, I tell you now - if the opportunity ever arises to experience a show there, take it. The venue is considered one of London's leading venues (as well as nightclub and theatre). Mainly used as a rock and pop venue, Brixton Academy has a capacity of around 5,000 (4,000 standing, 1,000 seated). This makes for the perfect experience when going to see your favourite act - there are enough people around to enhance the atmosphere, without having to use a telescope to see whats on the stage. Another nice little point is the sloping floor which means you can get a good view from just about anywhere.
Getting to the venue has never been a problem, but what I will say is that the town of Brixton isn't the greatest place on earth although I'm sure most of the downward spiral that has taken part in South London has taken place long after the venue was built in 1929.
picture taken from www.dontstayin.com
The architecture of the building is one of the things that I love. The stage still has the 'proscenium arch' and all around the arena area is the brilliant original architecture complete with balconies and ledges from it's earlier days as a cinema and theatre. I find looking up at this decor during a concert, with all the lights bouncing from the different angles of the walls very appealing.
Overall, I see Brixton Academy as a great venue that perfectly ties in the old architecture with the modern music of today to create a maelstrom of culture and joy and if you haven't already experienced it, go to something there - it'll be fun.
image taken from blogspot.com
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