Lopsided – Funky House Music (with a twist…)
Venue – Ruby Lo 23 Orchard St. London W1
by Jamie J

Lopsided is one of the latest nights to spring up as the dance music scene, in its ever-evolving state, swerves from the super club scenario to more bar/club-orientated nights. Since the demise of some of the said super clubs, many of London’s up and coming promoters, DJ’s and live acts are finding themselves performing in more intimate and exclusive bar/club venues all over town.

Ruby-Lo, already touted as one of “the” venues to be seen at, plays host to Lopsided every month. The second Saturday of every month to be precise. Resident DJ’s Stephen Jenkins and J-P Sanchez provide the perfect accompaniment with a mixture of soulful house sounds through to a more up beat tech house with a splash of Anthem every so often.

The guys behind the night have gone all out to make sure Lopsided has that extra “twist”. Whether it be the Lopsided cocktail (usually decided on the night I am informed) or the tit-bits of information scattered all over the bar, enlightening us on all sorts of facts and figures to do with Lemons! (See the logo and that becomes clearer.)

Speaking with co-owner Rupert, it was explained that foremost Ruby Lo is a bar, so the music does not get louder until later in the night, but by midnight the volumes were at a satisfactory level (even by my ear splitting standards) and the night was now fully into its vibe.

With a sprinkling of celebrities already taking a shine and being seen at Lopsided, I hope this is one night that stands the course of time. The music policy is spot on. Groovy Soulfuric type beats and rhythms to keep the atmosphere primed until the volume is turned up. Then the DJ’s got to work with some more serious tech styled tunes. Working the crowd. Salt ‘n’ Peppa “Push It” was a big favourite on the night, causing a few gyrations even from my hips! (not a pretty sight…)

The two residents informed me that the next few Lopsided nights will be just residents entertaining. Establishing Lopsided as night comes first, before they join heads to decide upon some guest DJ’s in the future. JP and Stephen have some strong connections around the globe of up and coming talent, both in Production and DJ’s, so do not expect the usual suspects of guests.

Leaving Lopsided my demo CD in hand (this month it was the turn of JP to hand out to the crowd some freshly mixed CD’s) I hadn’t enjoyed a night out like that for some time. Intimate crowd that was full of atmosphere, everyone enjoying their music to the fullest. Top marks to Lopsided.

(ruby-lo.co.uk)