Photo of Prince Rapid by Ben Walsh www.benwalshphotos.com

Sunday night was The Den event at the Old Blue Last in Shoreditch, a monthly night run by Frisco (BBK) showcasing both upcoming and recognized grime artists. As always, the line-up was strong, ending with the legendary Prince Rapid and a few surprise guests sprinkled throughout:

Despite the advertised start time of 7pm, the live music only got going at 11pm. The room gradually filled up with regular Den-goers and other established fixtures on the grime scene. My personal achievement was meeting Twin B who I have listened to every morning on BBC 1Xtra for 3 years (also a big name in the A&R game).

Photo of Big Zuu by Ben Walsh www.benwalshphotos.com

All of the MCs brought a different vibe to the room and varied their sets between polished tracks and freestyles. Big Zuu was particularly impressive, not looking as though he caught a breath once whilst jumping between tracks. One of my favorite performances came from TE dness doing ‘South America’, talking about those lost in translation moments over a silky beat.

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A cameo from Nick Brewer with Guvna B brought you back to the room with remarkably fast bars, and to end it all, Prince Rapid gave the type of performance that reminded you what grime is all about.

The Den Event is the last Sunday of every month at The Old Blue Last. If you happen to find yourself in London when one is taking place, I highly recommend you turn up. Whether you’re new to grime or feel like you know it all, it’s a refreshing evening of raw talent and respect for the genre.

Photo of Jaykae by Ben Walsh www.benwalshphotos.com 

Photo of Twin B by Ben Walsh www.benwalshphotos.com

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