1a Camden High Street,
Camden,
London,
NW1 7JE
0870 432 5527
The ViewLondon Review
Formerly known as the Camden Palace amongst other names, KOKO is a stunning live music venue with a rich history and it’s still one of the best the capital has to offer.
The Venue
Situated in the quieter end of Camden, by Mornington Crescent tube, KOKO is an iconic music venue which attracts crowds of all ages.
Originally a theatre, as soon as you enter its doors you get a feel for the venue, and the real fun begins. A fetching crimson hue illuminates the walls giving it somewhat of a sophisticated boudoir feel.
As its spread out on many different levels, you can wander about trying to find the best spot for your evening’s entertainment. If you are here for a gig, the best place to head is downwards, as it gets you nearer the stage and all the action. The second floor is more decadent with plush sofas and has a more chilled out vibe, which is great for club nights. And it’s from here you can gain access to the roof terrace. KOKO have introduced a scheme where on Fridays, non-ticket holders can come and enjoy a few cheap drinks in the comfort of the venue whilst watching the world go by on the streets of Camden. The terrace is just below the famous KOKO sign and offers a really pleasant experience, particularly when the sun is out.
The Atmosphere
If you are coming for a gig, KOKO has fantastic acoustics and there are many places to watch the stage. For club nights, you are free to roam all over and that makes your night a bit more fun. There are plenty of places to sit and chill out which can be essential if you’re doing an all-nighter. For those of you checking out the roof terrace, which is a sublimely chilled experience, if a major sporting event is on, it will be played on the flat screens.
The Music
Whether you’re at KOKO to see your favourite band or for one of their regular club nights, KOKO has music genres to suit most tastes. On Fridays there’s the weekly Club NME night, where you get a combination of a couple of live acts and an indie club night afterwards. On the last Saturday of the month Guilty Pleasures resides, offering the best in sing-out-loud pop music. Once a month on a Saturday the beautifully eclectic Buttoned Down Disco invades the doors of KOKO, but it is invite only so make sure your name's down. Periodically they host funk, rave and electro nights. Just check out the listings as Saturday nights are always different.
The Drink
The booze on offer isn’t really inspiring, but hey you’re in a gig/club venue so what do you expect? No draught pints unfortunately, but you can have a can of Becks or Red Stripe in an attractive plastic pint glass for £3.70, which isn’t too disastrous. Wine starts at £2.50 for a fairly decent tipple, and a spirit mixer is £3.70, again actually quite affordable compared with other venues.
The Last Word
KOKO is a fantastic venue to watch a band, hit the dance floor or simply enjoy a social drink. It ticks all the boxes and is one of the best venues of its ilk in London.