The O2 Academy Brixton has undergone a rejuvenation in recent years. The almost 5000-capacity venue has come a long way from its early days as a humble theatre, playing host to artists ranging from the Prodigy to the Mighty Boosh.

The Venue
The O2 Academy Brixton has undoubtedly played an important part in the renaissance of the area. Located less than a ten minute walk from the tube station, the dome of the venue boldly declares its presence. Its massive size is matched only by its popularity, and the queue can quickly start to snake its way around the side of the building down Astoria Walk. A short bag check and pat-down later, and you're inside.

The first thing that strikes you about the venue is its sheer size - a gigantic carpeted hallway awaits. Upstairs is the balcony area, offering a fantastic view of the stage and the surrounding crowd. Your initial impressions as to the vast nature of the Academy are maintained when you enter the main hall. However, its size means the toilets are on opposing ends of the crowd. After a few hours when the main act comes on and you've had a few drinks, you either find yourself vainly crossing your legs in order to hold off the inevitable or pushing past reams of people in order to get to the other side of the cavernous theatre to relieve yourself.

The crowd safety measures - a long line of steel bars in the middle of the dance floor - are also something of an annoyance. Their purpose is an important one, but the bars seem to be in the places where you automatically stand in order to gain a good view of the performers. Still, this is a relatively minor quibble and on the whole doesn't really pose that much of a problem. However, if there's a mosh pit going on, it's probably best to give them a wide berth.

The Atmosphere
The crowd at the O2 Academy Brixton can be as diverse as the acts that perform there. Obviously, the patrons who go to watch the recently reformed Queen are going to be a fair bit older than the typical music fan in Hadouken's key demographic. Still, the crowd tends to be predominantly made up of indie fans. Don't be surprised to see a lot of young teenagers and a fair few Razorlight T-shirts. The staff are gracious and polite and are dedicated to helping people have a great night although some of them can be a bit abrupt come kicking out time.

The Music
After a slight lull in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s when it became home to die-hard metal bands and alt-pop indie shoe gazers, the O2 Academy Brixton has been embraced by a range of artists specialising in different genres, becoming more John Legend than Less Than Jake. Bob Dylan, Massive Attack, The Prodigy, Arcade Fide, Nine Inch Nails and Hard Fi have all played at the venue, while comedians such as Russell Brand think nothing of performing regularly at the Academy and making the audience roll in the aisles.

Many live albums have also been recorded within its illustrious walls including work from musicians such as Franz Ferdinand, Motorhead and David Gray - a testament to the fine acoustics of the site.

The Drink
Drinks are, at best, perfunctory. The O2 Academy Brixton has the standard bar that you would expect from a festival, but these days clubbers expect more (KOKO immediately springs to mind, which boasts both an advanced bar and a great live stage). Prices are acceptable with pints of Carling costing £3.50. Basic red and white wines are also available (served in plastic glasses if you're standing, of course). There are also a few spirit brands gathering dust on the bar including Jack Daniels and Smirnoff, so a spirit and mixer is always an option. Just don't expect to have a nice relaxing Mai Tai.

The Last Word
With ease of access, great acoustics and some of the highest profile acts around, the O2 Academy Brixton deserves its place on the list of London's best live music venues. Despite a limited drinks list, the Academy shines.

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