One of London's most famous venues, the Carling Academy Brixton is a fantastic establishment to get your rocks off and dance the night away, arms clenched tightly around another sweaty reveller you’ve never met - and aren’t likely to meet again.

The Venue
The Carling Academy Brixton stands proud just off of Brixton Road, with easy access to rail and tube stations. Built as one of the four Astoria theatres in 1929, many of the Academy’s original features remain, making it a unique live venue.

The magnificent proscenium arch looming over the stage gives fantastic presence to the bands that grace it, as does the original Art Deco decor. Even when drink is kicking in and bands begin to play, the history of this London gem cannot be ignored. Toilets are a nightmare to get to, as they are usually as crammed as the main floor. Thus, one often wanders into a cubicle only to find a small brown gift awaiting.

The Atmosphere
The Carling Academy Brixton is guaranteed to present a fantastic atmosphere, although it’s fair to say that those in attendance vary from band to band. Music is a matter of taste and preference, and if you don’t like the tunes you’re likely to be worlds apart from the other attendees. However, the crowds are usually very friendly; so if you lose a piece of clothing you may be lucky enough to have it handed back - after the returnee’s used it to wipe their brow, naturally. The party continues after the gig finishes with music reflecting the genre of band who’ve played blaring from the speakers.

The staff are friendly enough, despite pressure from all angles, and the bars are all within easy access. However, there’s more chance of a swift pint in Wormwood Scrubs, as queues build up within a matter of minutes.

The Music
The music in the Carling Academy Brixton is extremely varied. From the Happy Mondays to punk legends The Clash, Heavy Metal band Iron Maiden to Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones and Madonna; many bands have performed under the famous arch to sell-out crowds looking for a good time. It’s well worth keeping an eye on the Academy’s listings, as all genres from RnB to rock are catered for.

The Drink
Not the finest selection at the Carling Academy Brixton, with plastic bottled, bog-standard lager the only sensible option. If you don’t wish to be sensible, the usual suspects such as Jack Daniels and Smirnoff are on offer, although these tend to be wickedly overpriced. What more do you expect? Tequila and Sambuca are also available, helping tackle the phobia of looking like a prat whilst busting a groove in front of your favourite artist or band.

The Last Word
Forget the queues, toilets, drink prices, and the sweaty masses, God bless them. After all, music is a perfect anecdote to wind down from the trouble and strife of a day's hard slog, and Brixton offers a venue that we, Londoner’s and all, should be extremely proud of.

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