London’s night life is a jungle of post-lecture clubbing, beard pop-ups and what resembles a dark office with strobe lights. A stranger to the city could easily be taken down the wrong path for a charcoal cocktail or an all night DJ set of Beyonce. But there are better times to be had in London. The rock ‘n’ roll culture is still very much surviving and is being lead by a handful of passionate DJs, event organisers and bars. So throw that mocktail on the ground and stop pretending that you understand why a popstar has 100 writers for one album. Get a slice of the real action with these five top rock nights out in London.

Heavy Load

Heavy Load is a popular ’60s and ’70s rock night that lands on the last Saturday of every month. They spin hits from the likes of Free to Hendrix, accompanied by an alternating ’70s light projection. The couple who organise Heavy Load have been throwing events since 1999, and don’t seem to have any plans of stopping. They also sell some great vintage and compilations of their DJ sets. These guys have got real style.

http://www.theheavyloadclub.com/

Decadence

Decadence has been well known to be the go-to place for glam metal, hard rock and general rock ‘n’ roll debauchery on a weekend. This is the ideal spot for a late night due to the DJs playing until the early hours of the morning. This night is attended by regulars and virgins who come together to drink and listen to the best that music has to offer.

https://www.facebook.com/pg/DecadenceLondon

Shot Through The Heart

Hear all your favourite classic rock tracks live at this monthly covers night in North London. From AC/DC to Skid Row, Shot Though The Heart only perform the best. The live set is followed by DJ Ben Christo who will keep you up until 4am. This is one of the newer nights on the London circuit but has rapidly gathered an impressive following.

https://www.facebook.com/shotthroughheart/

Born Again Heavy Metal Soundhouse

Does exactly what it says on the tin. DJs Kayleigh and Michelle were inspired by Neal Kay’s Soundhouse, home of the air guitar. The girls play the best in heavy metal spanning from the ’70s to the golden era of the ’80s. There’s not a single classic that they don’t have in their collection.

http://bornagainheavymetalsoundhouse.blogspot.com

Metalworks

Every Sunday, Metalworks takes over Camden with a night of classic rock and heavy metal covers. Every week the line up changes with a number of local, professional musicians taking on notable bands like Motörhead or AC/DC. Often there is an opportunity to catch a new supporting band before the main event begins. Metalworks is a great way to end the week with the sounds of sweet, sweet live music.

http://metalworksband.com/