Kochi’s nightlife is finally on the upswing, once again. Popular artistes are flying down from cities like Chennai and Bengaluru to perform here at new hubs like Novotel’s The Bar. With another space reportedly opening soon near their rooftop-poolside lounge, Novotel is sure to be a hub for the affluent Infopark crowd. Old venues that have remained shut for over a decade are also getting a major facelift, including proper sound systems. Here are a few of our favourite must-attend gigs this weekend.
Skygrill Lounge
After working on the background score for the Prithviraj-starrer 9, Sekhar Menon is back at the console. This time, the music producer is taking over Crowne Plaza’s Skygrill Lounge—with supporting artiste Meljo. Titled Techno Rising, the event will feature a fresh dose of ‘organic’ tunes from within the genre. On May 3. From 8 pm.
Casino Hotel
If you’re looking for a gig located on the city’s outskirts then head to Willingdon Island. With local artistes Abhiram and Obscuit on board, the night promises a plethora of underground electronic tunes. The headliner of the showcase is Shiv Gupta, co-founder of popular Go Madras festival, who is better known by his moniker Shiva Moon. On May 4. From 7 pm.
Holiday Inn
Anonymous artiste duo, Templar Effect makes a triumphant return to the turntables after performing in cities like Pune and Kollam. Aficionados can expect a heady mix of high-octane melodic techno, jacking minimal tunes and much more at this gig. These up-and-coming music producers will also premiere their unreleased tunes like Theory of Solace and Roll On in the ballroom of the five-star property. On May 4. From 7 PM.
Llab
Loungevity was one of the most iconic nightlife spots in the city, back in the day. Now, the management at Avenue Regent has teamed up with Kekao (known for their warehouse gigs) and artiste Stalvart John to revive the club.
The crew is converting it into a ‘live space’ called Llab with a focus on experimental retail events and musical showcases. Their very first gig will be a house and disco-centric gathering titled Dynamite Disco Club, popularised by Stalvart through his Boxout.fm radio show.
Also, expect tunes from Bengaluru’s Synths Back. On May 4. From 7 pm.