199-201 Lewisham Way,
Lewisham,
London,
SE4 1UY
(020) 7697 4433
The ViewLondon Review
Curve may not live up to the heady heights of central London’s club scene or even, for that matter, some of south London’s cooler spots, but it’s a convenient choice for locals wanting to avoid expensive cabs. Decent music, good prices. Job done.
The Venue
This basement DJ-bar-cum-club does have a certain student union appeal with a rather sparse décor punctuated by some funky red walls, cool red and gold flock wallpaper and some above-average neon lighting – particularly noteworthy given this is not a big-budget clubber’s paradise. At the end of the day, it does what it needs to do – it offers a decent sized dancefloor for when the music is pumping. And when your feet can’t take anymore? A nice feature, often lacking in clubs and DJ bars like this, is the good seating in the form of funky cube tables and matching chairs.
The Atmosphere
Curve has a relaxed vibe that matches its south London location. You’d hardly expect the door staff to enforce a strict smart dress code, after all. Still, the people here – particularly the ladies – do make an effort to look good. Think bodycon dresses. There’s a definite feeling of this being a convenient party spot for locals and it’s clear from the banter with the staff that many of them are regulars.
The Music
They have a varied music policy at Curve with a focus on everything from house music to RnB and hip hop, with pretty-much everything in between. Ticket prices vary from free entry all night to £15+ (New Year’s Eve is likely to be pricier, but there’s nothing new there). And the sound system is actually very impressive – perhaps it’s the natural acoustics of the basement but they do rock it out.
The Drink
No surprises here. The cocktails are averagely priced at under £7 a pop and you can snigger when you ask for sex on the beach. There are all the usual high street spirits (Smirnoff, Bacardi et al) a few sickly alcopops and a couple of bottles of wine (house only though…).
The Last Word
Curve has carved a niche for itself as a neighbourhood DJ bar and seems to have captured the attention of the locals. It’s a good option if you live in the area and can’t be bothered trekking somewhere more central.
Curve has been reviewed by 3 users