Just a stoneâs throw away (well, a small crossing over a couple of roads) from Camden Town tube station, the Camden Jazz Bar (look for the big, blue lights) is fast becoming one of our favourite haunts. Between the stellar list of live acts and unquestionably varied and ample club nights, we honestly can say there is something for everyone.
While a myriad of clubs have a complex system of levels, rooms, âvibesâ and themes, the Camden Jazz Club is the king of open-plan. Not knocking the clubs that do, but our love for CJC is that easiness of grasping the layout and being able to traverse it trollied. Always a plus when considering a venue. The dancefloor/stage is ample and accommodates a good gathering, with space in the front for seating. The upstairs area consists of a balcony and bar. Smoking area outside the front entrance, with stamps available from your friendly doorman.
From our night out we can recall three bars, all which served a specific purpose, as well as copious amounts of vodka. The main bar loops round towards the front entrance, greeting new new night-outers and smoke-parchers purveyors with fridges, flasks, bottles, glasses and pumps full with various liquids to kickstart, maintain and make a night out. There is a secondary bar facing the stage which provides refreshment and respite for people too tuckered out or tipsy to totter through the crowd. The third bar (and our favourite) is a quiet bar found at the top of the venue, which at this point our memory is calling âThe Red Barâ. Usually quieter (in both custom and noise) it provides sanctuary to chat, catch up and get the Jagarbombs in before hitting the dance floor. When it comes to gig nights, itâs scaled down to the main bar. Rest assured, you will not wait more than five minutes (ample waiting berth) for a bartender to take your order.
A key point of affection for this venue is that they offer a restaurant service on the side should you have some mid-gig stomach grumbles. Taking advantage of their balcony area on the top floor, you can enjoy the finest mix of live music whilst getting into a selection of hot foods, desserts and, of course, drinks.
Toilets can be found downstairs, with cloakroom adjacent. Neither seem to be âhugeâ but in our visits weâve never had to wait longer than deemed necessary (especially once when loos and broken seals are concerned). The stairs CAN get a bit slippy once a night is fully flexing, but thatâs a minor concern. Whenever under the influence, you can never underestimate stairs.
In terms of seating areas, there are options, At the front end of the club, there are sofas, stools and seats in close proximity to the bar. When the upstairs is open, there are plenty of benches and booths towards the back of the balcony with tables and seats closer to the railing and stairs.
Between the club night flyers and the live music offerings, Commercial Free would highly recommend going to the Camden Jazz Club. Offering many an evening filled with Jazz, Soul, Funk, World, Dance, Hip Hop, new music, diverse club nights and general good times. Be sure to check here for full listings and links to buy tickets.
Cab fare home (to Watford): ÂŁ32 (plus a fillet oâfish for the driver)
