From grass-roots talent to experimental jazz, north east London is packed with independent music venues, where you can catch live acts with reasonable ticket prices, or even for free.
DB Music
This Middle Eastern-themed café and rehearsal space in Stoke Newington transforms into a live music and performance venue every Friday. Their scope is wide, representing cross-cultural rhythms and blends and the occasional stand-up comedy night, with the programme published monthly. Located in the heart of a bubbling metropolis of bars and live venues, there is always something to do afterwards, too.
Look out for: Jazz and world music on Friday evenings
Cost: usually £10.00
Address: 24 Stoke Newington High St, London, N16 7PL
Vortex Lates at Vortex Jazz Club
Just down the road from DB Music is the legendary Vortex Jazz Club, A cosy jazz bar setting that encourages an intimate experience with the musicians. The Vortex Late Series starts at 10am and finishes at 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, featuring improvisations from talented experimental artists on the jazz fusion tip.
Look out for: Live musicians, jazz fusion,
Cost: £6.00
Address: 11 Gillett Square London, N16 8AZ
Grow Hackney
Grow is a grassroots space dedicated to live music nestled at the core of the vibrant Hackney Wick scene. Their live music programme links emerging talent alongside international artists, producing an energetic high-vibration experience. From funk to reggae, from electronica to jazz, expect it all and remember to reserve a table in advance.
Look out for: Live music and DJs, electronic artists and bands until 2am
Cost: From free to £5.00 depending on the event
Address: Main Yard, 98c Wallis Rd, London, E9 5LN
Cafe Oto
Cafe Oto (which means sound or noise in Japanese) opened in 2008 and quickly became a stalwart platform for the coolest bands outside of the mainstream. Now managed as a non-profit, they also run a record label that supports emerging artists. You can expect leftfield and you can expect epic; Yoko Ono has performed there and the Sun Ra Arkestra once played five nights in a row. Want to get involved? Get free entry by signing up to be a volunteer via their info page.
Look out for: Experimental and leftfield sounds
Cost: From around £16.00, or £12.00 for members
Cheapo tip: Music fans can get free entry by signing up as a volunteer on the Cafe Oto website
Address: 18–22 Ashwin street, Dalston, London, E8 3DL
