Looking For Freedom

When visiting Germany, Americans are regularly taken back by the popularity enjoyed by David Hasselhoff. Yes, he's known in his homeland for his red Baywatch shorts and talking car, but that's nothing compared to The Hoff's Teutonic cult rockstar status. Similarly, whilst popular here, Sònar is huge in London.

This, of course, means only one thing: any self-respecting music-loving Londoner is Barcelona-bound this week. But do not despair. Lobster-coloured hen party tarts and drunks in football kits should be few and far between and, even better, it should also mean some decent London-hosted parties.

Ninja Tune and Contraflow are kicking everything off on Wednesday at La Nau, followed by a Dazed & Confused and Thugs & Hugs bash at Mondo on Thursday. VICE, like ourselves, have been forced to move their Friday party from Lotus to Roxy Blue, and then on Sunday, East London institution SecretSundaze takes over at La Terrrazza.

It pains us to admit, though, that the hottest ticket in town is not hosted by Brits, but by those Hoff-lovers. Like last year, Berlin label Mobilee takes over the rooftop at Hotel Diagonal for two afternoon sessions on Thursday and Friday. Go on, "I've Been Looking For Freedom..."

Contraflow - La Nau, Alaba 30, Poble Nou, Wed 23-05h
Dazed & Confused - Mondo, IMAX, Port Vell, Thu 22-05h
VICE party - Roxy Blue, Concell de Cents 294, Fri 22-05h
SecretSundaze - La Terrrazza, Poble Esp, Sun 18-01h
Mobilee -  Silken Diagonal, Glories, Thu-Fri 12-21h

by AAl