The HIFI Club, Leeds
2 Central Road
Le Phonographique – better known as The Phono – was a dark and Dingy nightclub now buried in the bowels beneath the Merrion Centre in Leeds. Opening in 1979, it is widely regarded as the world’s first gothic nightclub, beating London’s Batcave to the punch by three years.
The club became a regular haunt for bands such as The Sisters of Mercy, The Mission and The March Violets, and in May 1985 it even played host to an official Clash gig at the club Phono became a safe haven for punks, goths, weirdos freaks and misfits could belong without judgement.
In 1981, The Phono introduced its now-legendary Saturday afternoon drinking sessions, a tradition which carries on today! To honour this, Hifi Club Leeds will be open from 1pm to 6pm, serving up a soundtrack of punk, post-punk, new wave, goth, grunge, alternative rock, alongside the ultimate dancefloor anthems of the 20th century. Although the original club closed its doors in 2006, the spirit of The Phono refused to die. In 2008, former owners and DJs reunited to keep the legacy alive.
With original Le Phonographique DJs behind the decks, this promises to be one of the most genuine retro alternative music events you’ll ever experience.
Phono events draw a unique crowd – from original goths, punks and long-time Phono-ites, to a new generation of alternative youth eager to experience what The Phono was truly like.
We hope you’ll join us for an afternoon packed with music, memories, and mischief. Arrive between 1pm and 1:30pm and you’ll receive a Phono-patented drinks token ( 2 for 1 )
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