The Buffalo Bar, 259 Upper Street, London N1, England; Tel: 020 7359 6191 Email:info(at)buffalobar.co.uk
Hedonists Guide to London
The Buffalo Bar is a happening. Like its namesake, the bar is not known for its good looks. Desperately lo-fi and unstuffy, the draw of this baked earth-hued cellar is its ear-to-the-ground music programming (it's even produced its own compilation album). From art punk to noisy garage to acoustic1960s harmonies, half of the fun is the unpredictability of what heard-it-here-first unsigned band might play next. The Monday salsa night and dance lessons seem a little incongruous in what is predominately a live music venue, but the eclectic spectrum of the Buffalo's acts and nights holds a mirror to London's diversity - this beast is not afraid to experiment. For that there's an energy here that money couldn't buy (this venue sits resolutely in the non-commercial camp) and an enticingly friendly atmosphere. A disparate crowd spans the 'youf' subcultures, often seen clutching their demo tape to deliver to the promoters. Definately more 'dive' than 'diva'.