Live Review: London Elektricity, Memtrix, VLTRN, Terrence & Phillip, MC Wrec, CD/MC, N1 B2B T'Dodge, Network Vs Rexop

Given how London Elektricity's known for optimistic drum'n'bass, Network vs Rexop's steroid-guzzling beats were somewhat surprising, as they threatened the nuts and bolts of Metro's sound system with some disturbingly caustic wobble. N1 b2b T'Dodge continued pushing the hardcore, aided by the vocals of CD/MC, a good example of the kind of MC who would've been doing dubstep a few years ago but has settled into a format that makes the most of his nimble-tongued abilities. Not sure about his London via Cannington accent, but he rode the double-time beats fluidly and outperformed MC Wrec, who failed to maintain a presence or move the crowd. Terrence & Phillip introduced some adaptable astro-funk and live harmonica. Yes, live harmonica. Now I've seen it all. Memtrix continued by constructing his set into a nice propulsive arc, although some of his breakdowns suggested he really wanted to give trance a chance. Of course, no one could hear anything anyone said under the overwhelming waves of demon-wobble, but you could feel the collective sense of anticipation for the bespectacled elder statesman of the esteemed Hospital imprint.

For the most part, London Elektricity kept his eccentrics down, barring the odd bit of air piano and the occasional golf swing, but he cunningly entertained, capably navigating a range of styles from the jazzy to the hardcore and not forgetting the value of dropping or raising the master volume. With everyone else out on the floor, frenzied renegades commanded the open areas around the bar, showing off their best Bruce Lee footwork. VLTRN's dynamic, hair-blowing bottom end finished off the night, as exhausted bodies crashed out into the street.