LWE are proving that lightning can indeed strike twice. Just over a year after the spectacular launch of the once-thriving Newspaper production facility Printworks, London’s supreme party starters are continuing to flex their creative muscles as they scour the capital for new and exciting spaces, this time transforming a television studio with the launch of their latest experimental dance venue – Old Fountain Studios.
Having taken serious strides in putting London’s clubbing scene firmly back on the world map in recent times, those who were there to witness the opening party of Printworks will know it will live long in the memory, with everyone’s favourite brothers from the Bronx – The Martinez Brothers – bringing their typically high-octane energy to proceedings to ensure the house music on offer is at a premium.
With that in mind, it was no surprise the duo were tasked with the mission to launch LWE’s next sensory experiment, although this time the M-Bros were tasked with showcasing the sounds from their distinctive NYC imprint and bourgeoning label Cuttin’ Headz – recruiting the excellent pairing of Archie Hamilton & Rossko under their all-new ‘Arkityp’ alias to warm up proceedings.
With a typically big room lineup and label showcase to wet the appetite, conditions are beyond perfect as we bask in the early-summer sun and take a short walk along Wembley Way alongside a cluster of expectant ravers to a gated entrance practically opposite the Stadium. The buzz evokes a real sense of occasion akin to entering any major clubbing space for the first time, and it’s almost impossible to not be impressed upon entering.
It’s almost bizarre to think that a room that previously played host to celebrated TV shows like ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’ has been meticulously designed into a fully soundproofed shell with a visual lighting rig, but this is exactly what’s happened, and it’s nothing short of spectacular. Although not quite on the same scale of visual blockbuster Printworks, what Old Fountain Studios lacks in strobes it makes up for in its simplicity and above all else – crystal clear sound. This is a warehouse box that’s struck a balance between visuals and acoustics that crucially offers far more dancing space then Printworks ever has. It makes a welcome change from the norm.
With Arkityp – the brainchild of Fuse alumni and the ever-dependable Archie Hamilton & Rossko – having quickly shifted everyone into third gear with a two hour excursion of minimal grooves B2B style, it was the introduction of the M-Bros that sent the capacity crowd into raptures with a typically hi-octane onslaught of house, techno and disco. Taking us through a series of classic cuts old and, with Matthew Dear’s ‘Dog Days’, Bas Ibellini’s ‘That’s Right’, Cajmere & Dajae’s ‘Brighter Days’ and Brothers recent collab with Louie Vega ‘Shut The Door’ all drawing unanymous whistles, the giant warehouse made for an inspired setting that brings further optimism that London is in a healthy place for clubbing again.
Equipped with a clear, sharp and thudding soundsystem and jaw-dropping lighting production in the shape of a spectacular kaleidoscopic rig angled at 90 degrees that has to be seen to be believed, it’s an inspired setting, and LWE have yet again proved they are the masters of their craft.
Keep up to date with all forthcoming Old Fountain Studios events here, and check out our gallery of exclusive images as well as the M-Bros set in full for a taste of the action below.
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