Halesowen Soul Club

Always a busy night here, enthusiastic crowd of regulars but a friendly club too.

Dancefloor is a little small but nice and clean and the drinks are very reasonable indeed. 

The best thing about tonight, however, was first up DJ Mark Hallam - only the second person this year I've heard play anything by Otis Redding (the first being Aaron Williams) Look At That Girl , only the second person I've hear play Joe Simon - I Got A Whole Lot Of Loving (the other was Mick Oakden) although it was another "changing my shoes" moment (must do that as soon as I get there to save time just in case) so didn't dance to it, the great tracks kept on coming - John Harris and the Soul Sayers, Lorenzo Manley (or did someone else play that? not sure, but wow). Well worth arriving early for Mark next time. 

Other DJ's played a reliable mix of Motown, oldies and the odd surprise. I would say, though, that every time I've been here the music is varied, not predictable. John Barker who was recently at Old Brogues did a good set as did resident Mike Hollis - there've been some good DJ's here lately; John Stackhouse of the Mojo Club also recently guested and did a cracking set. 

The only other thing about this club is that they do finish right on the dot before 12, fair enough as it's surrounded by houses but can take you by surprise if you're used to a later finish - the answer is to get there at 7:30 obviously!

Drew the room a few weeks back at their all-dayer (not listed on Soul Source) so drew a couple of dancers and the DJ. Also like the blue of their new banner - very nice. 

I rarely give 5 stars - I've noticed that often reviews are by people connected with the event who inevitably give 5 stars to everything. I am trying to be objective.