It's that time again, those two days and two carefree evenings settled in between the established sludge of workaday life. Well, unless you, say, enjoy your job. Or work weekends. Basically, either way, this is the weekend clubbing guide for Leeds, and whether you like grime, techno, house, disco, chart smashes or even skiving off work from 2PM for a shuffle, there's something here for one and all (restrictions apply to one and all).
Flux - Beaverworks, Whitehouse Street, Friday
The British calendar system might disagree with the notion that it’s the start of summer, but the ever reliable Flux have different ideas, and they’re throwing a pretty massive party to make their point heard. Getting right in their before exam time, there’s live music and DJs galore, focusing on Flux’s usual funk and soul leanings with some trips into techno, house and other genres. It’s all live action on The Terrace, with Giles Peterson favourite Nubian Twist playing alongside cosmic experimentalists Galaxians, plus Engine, Suga and the Capua Collective. In the Red Room (not of pain), you’ll find warm house from Lakuti, Honey Dijon and more, while the basement keeps it techno with the likes Oracy and Alland Byallo. Other rooms are occupied by crate digging favourites such as Butter Side Up, Outlaws Yacht Club and Distrikt, while great street food, art installations and more complete the feel. An early start at 2PM, and a solid celebration of Leeds talent.
Jamz - The Warehouse, Somers Street, Saturday
Having begun the year at Wire, Elijah and Skilliam’s riotous Jamz party continues to dominate in a larger venue, offering just as much space to dance, but little compromise on the sound system or wild, celebratory atmosphere. Spinning grime both contemporary and classic with incredible technical ability and stamina, Elijah and Skilliam will be joined by honorary Butterz crew member, JME, performing a rather rare set in Leeds. Room 2 is hosted by well regarded party starters Bigger than Barry, and a few special guests are promised on top of the initial line up.
Black Butter Records - Canal Mills, Brandon Street, Saturday
With an enviable roster of artists at their disposal, Black Butter Records have had a bumper few years, and this huge party at Canal Mills shows off their biggest artists. Having already clocked up an appearance on Later with Jools Holland (!), and more importantly, massive radio and club play, Gorgon City headline with a DJ set. Joining them are Kidnap Kid, Applebottom, classic house revivalist Huxley and the hotly tipped Sam Sure, playing a live set. Co-promoters Metropolis host the gleefully sweaty Room 2 action, with Black Butter’s newer signing Jaded spinning alongside residents Inca, Darwin and Mike Jones.
Find out about music and nightlife on Time Out Leeds