Live Review: Kristian Nairn, Ego

Since the Game Of Thrones-themed rave parties were announced, excitement levels of diehard fans have been high. Kristian Nairn, who plays loveable half-giant Hodor on the TV series based on the fantasy books, has been a house DJ far longer than an actor. We’re keen to see what he does other than carry around Bran Stark all day.

But first, let’s talk about the audience costumes. As expected, there are plenty of silver-haired Daenerys Targaryens and shirtless Kharl Drogos. Popular costume choices for the evening include fake fur coats, beards and random weapons, with wearers claiming to be either ‘wildlings’ or men of The Night’s Watch. Our favourite costume would have to be Theon Greyjoy’s dismembered penis – a flesh-coloured, inflatable full bodysuit that encourages high fives and giggles in equal measures.

As we wander into The Prince, we’re immediately drawn to the massive Iron Throne onstage, with a sulky-looking Joffrey Baratheon sitting in the prime position. Our gaze doesn’t stay on him for long, as there is a weird strip show going on centre stage. One of the dancers is wearing a massive Direwolf’s head and is looking a lot like what happened to Robb Stark after The Red Wedding. What the hell have we wandered into?
We’re swiftly put back on track when audiovisual artist Ego starts his set, opening with the naff (The Black Eyed Peas) I Gotta Feeling (The Black Eyed Peas). When this track is paired with footage of scenes from The Red Wedding, we realise we’re in for a very tongue-in-cheek set. Another great example of this is when A-Trak’s remix of Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ Heads Will Roll is paired with footage of Ned Stark’s beheading. The biggest crowd pleaser however is Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing cut with various Game Of Thrones sex scenes, and then further mashed-up with Kanye West’s Bound 2 – sexy stuff.

From the get-go, Kristian Nairn looks like he is having an absolute ball. While he’s certainly hard at work on the decks, he takes plenty of moments to look around at the crowd with an amused grin on his face. Nairn’s set, which is largely house music with the occasional cut to more EDM proclivities, is enjoyable as a whole. However it is clear that tonight is not specifically for fans of deep house. This is most obvious when Nairn‘s rework of Azealia Banks’ 212 is thrown down and the dancefloor is at its busiest. Towards the close of the set, Nairn indulges the crowd with a “Hodor” followed by a sheepish giggle as he wraps things up. It’s all about the spectacle and we’ve had a great time nerding out on all things George RR Martin. HODOR!