Published
Fri, Sep 16, 2011, 10:00
- Our White Isle correspondent highlights one of its hidden treasures.
Amidst all the pizzazz and excess and expense of Ibiza's big clubs, there is an oasis that is best understood by the name it bears. Underground is a bar and small club, situated in Sant Rafel in the centre of the island, and only a stone's throw from Amnesia and Privilege. Since its opening, it has stuck to a policy of non-commercial music and non-commercial attitude.
Underground is open every night of the week—except Sunday—from just before midnight until at least 4. The location is made up of a beautiful outdoor garden terrace space and bar, with the club inside holding about 150 to 200 people. As much a meeting point for a quiet drink as it is for a full-on, intimate dancing session, the unique selling point here is that every night the club is open, a guest DJ of international holding plays the main set. They're supported by a raft of residents such as Kevin Cook and Justin Field, but the most regular of residents is actually one of the owners, Don Juanito, known affectionately for his brash mixing.
Which are the best days to go? Well, Saturday and Wednesday tend to be busiest, but not always exactly as underground as usual. Tuesday is often quiet as a result of the aftermath of Cocoon and the subsequent afterparties, so Thursday and Friday therefore sit perfectly in the middle as the best choice. That said, the driving force is obviously the guest DJ. I wanted to avoid making a long list, but it's the easiest way to get across the strength and depth of what goes on here. Artists like Raresh, Mathew Jonson, Cassy, DJ Sneak, Simon Baker, Alex Celler, Livio & Roby and Rhadoo have all played here this summer, usually fitting gigs in around other island commitments but on occasion coming especially for Underground. Naturally, many of these appearances are done for free and, moreover, are at the request of the DJs rather than the venue. Interestingly, it is the traditionally weak night of the week in Ibiza—Saturday—that sees Underground at its busiest, no doubt buoyed by Brits looking for a place to go after The Zoo Project.
One more thing to note: Entrance to Underground is essentially free. Girls always get in without paying and guys are charged between 10-15€, but a free drink is included. Free guestlist can also be found without too much of a struggle. This principle makes it unique in terms of value for money. For that reason alone, Underground should be supported when you visit Ibiza.