Back to Basics,
the UK’s longest running club night, celebrated its 23rd birthday at the
weekend. Reading commentary in the build up to the night, it’s clear that there’s
a real sense of loyalty and respect with what the Leeds based institution has
achieved. Basics remains a pioneer
and continues to push boundaries to achieve the best clubbing experience with
audio-visual entertainment. This year’s birthday celebration was held at Beaver
Works, featuring a plethora of talent and the 3D visual installation from Haydn
Robinson, Simon Fong Wah and Zeon Sam on the production that was popular at the
previous event.
Basics All Stars were advised to dress for the red carpet, the
theme for the event being superstars, movie stars and all stars. We arrived in
costume and true to word the red carpets were out and we made our way inside
the venue. Tinsel town had come to Leeds, Beaver Works being transformed to
represent the glamour and extravagance of Hollywood. With four rooms of quality
music we were in for a memorable night. The Bar Room reminded me of a drinks
reception, guests gathering for a few glasses before being taken to their seats
for the ceremony. Dave Beer and everyone involved behind the scenes had delivered
in converting ideas into reality, something Basics
has achieved for over two decades.
The Bar Room provided the early entertainment, Maurice
Fulton proving that he’s one of the true originals with his enviable back
catalogue. George Benson’s smooth sounding ‘Love
X Love’ being a personal favourite in the opening stages. Heading into the
Main Room for Crazy P (Live) and the 3D projection mapping that encased the DJ
booth was incredible. The audio-visual experience passing my expectations with
a blistering set from Crazy P which provided so many great moments. Andre
Bratten ‘Trommer Og Bass’ being one of the highlights of the night. The
extensive birthday line-up included so much top underground talent, mixing
experience from veteran Ralph Lawson, with a new wave of talent eager to make
an impression. Down in the Basement Room was Circo Loco regular Clive Henry,
joined by residents Laura Jones, Burnski, Frenchy, Jon Woodall, Gavin Herlihy and
James Barnsley. There was a great atmosphere and I really enjoyed listening to
the DJs playing back-to-back and serving up some great track combinations. We
then moved back to the Bar Room as head honcho Dave Beer was closing out his
set to receive much-deserved acknowledgement from the crowd. Aden Konrad and
Josh Plews followed, both making their debut at the venue and proving that
Basics is still uncovering exciting new talent. After a turbulent year, Back to Basics proved why it has been around
for so many years and provided a memorable night for everyone involved.
