'The Premises' is comprised of two recording studios, a host of rehearsal studios, storage lock-ups, and a cafe out front (a business unto it's own and listed separately in the directories). Putting the recording facilities to one side (we've never used them and so can't really comment) the rehearsal studios are most definitely the key feature of this complex.
Varying in size from 'small' rooms easily capable of accommodating a five-piece band and their sound, to gargantuan (by London standards) studios with dance-floor and stage areas, these spaces will set you back £12-£14 per hour (inc. VAT), assuming you've paid the nominal £10 annual membership fee. This does not however include hire of back-line, the costs of which add up remarkably quickly. Regulars will generally be hiring a lock-up for their equipment at a very reasonable monthly charge, but availability at any point in time is far from guaranteed.
Organised into three four-hour slots each day, evening slots are hard to come by at short notice, most being taken a month or so in advance (honestly, how many bands can get all their members together on a week day afternoon?). But why are people this eager to part with their hard-earned cash for what is essentially a room without the cranky neighbours? Well, let's start with the impressive Mackie Active PA Speakers and wedge monitors. Add to that a decent stab at sonic damping and sound-proofing, a neat and tidy building with air-conditioning in every studio, a lift (oooh), and helpful staff and you start to see the attraction - the cafe is just a bonus! Some garage band members may also reel at the lack of damp musk, but if you just can't practise without it, they do have one room that'll suit. You might notice the management touting their solar-powered 'green studio' credentials, though I rarely see it generating much more power than is consumed by my bass amp, let alone the whole studio.
For those who like to name-drop (like myself), this place does see it's fair share of famous clients. I've seen/heard the likes of The Klaxons, Unkle, James, and even Courtenay Love (ARGH!) rehearse here. Also Cass (former Skunk Anansie bassist) can often be seen in the hallways, though I've never asked him what he's actually doing there; just loitering I suspect. read more