Club review: Found @ Hidden, 29/06/2012

Room 1 played host to Hotflush Recordings and Detroit producer Jimmy Edgar, as well as seasoned techno veterans Kyle Hall and Catz N Dogz. 

In Room 2 meanwhile, 2nd Drop Recordings boasted a handful of their most successful breakthrough acts to celebrate five years of releasing a range of honest and interesting bass music. Born in the Spring of 2007, the label has grown to be recognised as one of the foundation labels that aided the progression of the early Dubstep sound into what we know today. Household names such as Ramadanman, Rusko and LV have all put out releases through 2nd Drop, and now the label has turned its focus to nurturing some of the rawest exploratory music from the likes of Tessela, DjRum and Pedestrian.

As a long time admirer of the label, it seemed appropriate to check out Room 2 straight after navigating my way through the extremely tight security at the South London night club. Despite the night being young, the energy in the room was already somewhat tangible, with a sea of bobbing heads complimenting the percussive nature of the music blasting from the speakers. Pedestrian was at the helm, exploring a range of different sounds, deftly working his way through many of his own productions, as well some choice selections from past and present. This set summed up exactly what 2nd Drop are all about; no particular code or formula, just well presented dance music that holds a real sense of character.

Room 1 was exactly what one would expect from such a lineup. Long, progressive mixes with plenty of 'rise and fall' moments to keep the dance floor interested. By the time Kyle Hall entered the booth, the dance floor was at full capacity, with all in attendance eagerly awaiting his championed Detroit sound. Hall didn't disappoint, and in fact went further than merely satisfying his audience. Hall's selection of tracks was perfect for the occasion, demonstrating as to why he has gained such status within his field.

Looking back on the occasion, a sense of achievement must be recognised on the part of those that curated the event. A number of events have often fallen foul to having too much of a mixed lineup, drawing completely different crowds that tend to feel lost when not in the room of their preferred performers. Despite being slightly under capacity, the event certainly held a sense of continuity: Room1 playing host to the heritage Detroit music, whilst Room 2 supported the rawness of the capital's contemporary bass sound.

The venue has a long way to go before it will be considered 'the hub' for forward thinking music in London, however if those involved continue to organise such events, it shouldn't be too long before the club starts to gain recognition for supporting what is very current in the world of dance music.

Words: Tom Mullett 

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