Clubs

Highlights

STAKE OUT

@ riverside

Newcastle is a city crammed with clubbers dedicated to Hedonism but there aren't enough quality promotions that differ from the basic hard house formula. The Riverside is one of Newcastle's best venues and has recently overhauled its clubbing programme. Stake Out offers alternative cuts and chemical beats and also provides the most scope for musical innovation. The clientele are young, energetic and, like most clubbers in the region, dressed up to the nines. Resident Big Niall lords over the decks on the main floor while Andrew Cameron and Nik Barrera feature in the back room. Great looking club with two excellent rooms and real value for money.

Fridays, 57-59 Melbourne St, Newcastle NE1. (0191 261 4386) 10pm-2am, pounds 3 with flyer & NUS/pounds 4 before 11pm/pounds 5 after.

METALHEADZ

@ hanover grand

If there was any lingering doubt in your mind that this collective throw the best drum 'n' bass jams in the UK then check them out on the first Friday of every month. It's been a long time since Goldie made an appearance but the dancefloor is always jumping. Dark tunes, spot- on mixing and a lively crowd make this gig a sure thing. Marley Marl and Ed Rush take centre stage before the excellent Kemistry & Storm, followed by Grooverider, take over on the Technics.

Fridays, 6 Hanover St, London W1 (0171-499 7977) 10pm-4.30am pounds 10 before 11pm & members/pounds 15 after.

THE LAVA LOUNGE

@ the undeground

This gaff claims to be the sound of swinging Leeds - a tribute to 60's kitsch. It's discotheque, funky soundtracks, Hammond organ grooves (including some excellent soft porn anthemes) and French pop. The decor is a throwback to those random British 60s films that were hip for all of six weeks thirty years ago. If clubbing is all about escapism then indulge at your leisure.

Tuesdays, T&C Club, Cookridge Street Leeds (0113 280 0100) 10pm-2am pounds 3/pounds 3.50.

THE LOFT

@ HQ's

Uplifting house and garage anthems dominate, courtesy of Paul 'Trouble' Anderson and guests. A derisory Lady-Godiva will grant you admittance to this event so the place is usually rammed. Split over two floors, HQ's overlooks Camden Lock and attracts some of the capital's coolest cosmopolitan revellers. Eat at the restaurant, chill at one of the bars or bust-a move on the dancefloor.

Wednesdays, The West Yard, Camden Lock, London NW1 (0171-485 6044) 9.30pm- 2am pounds 5.