- Talk about going out with a bang: Few clubs in London have achieved the cult status that The End has earned throughout 13 years of buzzing activity, and what better way to celebrate than a 24-hour-long party?
As doors opened at 8 PM, hundreds of euphoric clubbers in the endless queue waited for a glimpse of those legendary metal doors: a red carpet was laid out and headphones and cans of Red Bull were handed out by the dancing staff, while an outdoor DJ provided a selection of groovy '70s music, creating a memorable silent disco.
Photo credit: Vickie Parker
Things started in the main room with resident Don Mac of Superfreq, who warmed up the crowd with feel good-groovy house and hints of soft vocals: "I need your loving, like the sunshine" was the perfect kick-off.
Then it was Mr. C's turn: Co-owner of the club and one of the favourite residents judging by the crowd's response, C was his innovative-and-never-obvious self as he played a selection of industrial tech-house, switching the mood to intense dancing. Him yelling "Fuck the smoking ban tonight!" caused a stir of ovation, and the smell of tobacco filling the rooms kicked off '90s nostalgia.
Photo credit: Vickie Parker
Layo and Bushwacka! followed with a mindblowing set that highlighted some special moments from their Olmeto night. It wasn't exactly surprising, but who needs surprises when the comforting sound of their inimitable tech-tribal-house won't ever be heard again under these cavernous arches? Meanwhile, Erol Alkan hyped up the Lounge with his electro twists and energy-hyped tunes. I headed back to see Layo, however, who came on again to bid farewell at 6 AM. At that moment, the room got dark, the smoke machines were on blast and The Doors' "The End" filled the room: Cliche? Maybe. But a beautiful and epic finale even more so.
Especially in light of old school legend Laurent Garnier, who managed to ruin the sweet flow with "Lithium" and "Song 2." Many took the opportunity to call it a night, or wander off to the joint AKA bar, which hosted the after-party until 8 PM. The refuge was a posh and relaxed one, soundtracked by a mix of '90s Chicago acid-house and Detroit techno, which was a welcome respite after the hours of dark drums on the incredulously packed and sweaty main floor.
Photo credit: Vickie Parker
The energy was still incredible for a Sunday morning, but at 9 AM I decided to call it a night. It hasn't sunk in yet, but there will be a big void in this city. Walking into the rain, I took a last look behind me, exhausted, happy and uncertain of what London's nightlife will hold going forward.
Update: The Nirvana song played by Laurent Garnier was "Lithium," not "Smells Like Teen Spirit." We regret the error.