UNDERGROUND PULSE: THE CULTURAL POWERHOUSE OF 24 KITCHEN STREET
It’s a Friday night in Liverpool, and where do I end up?
Dancing at the side of a room, rum punch in hand, with my best friend in our well-worn trainers, really getting down to a set from Amber Rose. It’s the iconic DJ’s 22nd birthday bash at 24 Kitchen Street. Amber herself celebrates as a dynamic figure in Liverpool’s selector scene, spinning a proper blend of reggae, dancehall, amapiano, UK funky, and dabbling in garage. At this open birthday event, the crowd mixes friends and strangers, all drawn in by her infectious energy.
But beyond the music and dancing, there’s a deeper bond holding us disparate guests together. It’s 24 Kitchen Street itself, where the venue throws open its doors with an implicit invitation to just turn up; no RSVP is needed. It’s a cornerstone of Liverpool’s underground music scene, reflecting the city’s diversity and the convergence of gritty creatives celebrating sounds and community.
Knowing I’m not alone in my curiosity about the driving force behind this cultural hub, I caught up with the man behind the mask, Saad, one of the directors steering the ship at 24 Kitchen Street. I wanted to understand why he invests his time bringing national and international artists to Liverpool and how they successfully support local talent through their parties.
Saad immediately echoes my intense question, thoughtfully pondering, “Why do I do it? It’s all for music and late-night culture, but growing into a platform for local talent is what drives us. Many have passed through our doors and gone on to become international and national promoters and DJs.” It’s the risks they’ve taken that make the venue so unique; Saad explains, “We embrace all musical forms, from queer cabaret to electronic DJs. Our risks are driven by passion, bringing diverse artists to our stage regardless of commercial appeal.”
Supporting local talent isn’t just a motto—it’s a sweet reality. Saad emphasises this, explaining how “supporting local talent lies at the heart of 24 Kitchen Street’s ethos. We’ve given countless DJs and artists their first break, propelling them from obscurity to wider recognition.” Resident DJ Jacinta embodies these words. She describes the venue as a second home, drawn to its dark, intimate space that undergoes a magical transformation when the crowd is completely immersed. “Having people in your hands is an incredibly special feeling,” she reflects.
Jacinta’s journey at Kitchen Street holds up a mirror up to the institution itself. “They welcomed me with open arms, offering opportunities to perform at their venue and the annual festival, ‘Baltic Weekender,’ as well as gigs at Manchester’s Hidden Club alongside my favourite DJs,” she recalls. “They continuously challenge and support me as an artist, providing opportunities that I don’t think I’d have been given anywhere else in the city at that time.”
Jacinta makes it sound effortless but as the man behind the scenes, it’s intriguing to understand the tougher side in making it all happen. “It doesn’t come without its challenges,” Saad admits. “From cleaning and security to booking and promotion, it’s been a marathon. We’ve had to handle everything ourselves, from DIY repairs to managing finances.”
The reality of running a venue driven by genuine demand and cultural significance is essential to the city’s fabric; as Saad asserts, “Liverpool’s music scene is iconic, but venues like 24 Kitchen Street are crucial to its evolution. They maintain our city’s identity while adapting to new trends and tastes.” Yet, staying in sync with current trends and public desires is a complex task. Looking forward, Saad reflects on the future. “To stay relevant, we must adapt,” he muses. “Keeping our finger on the pulse of music trends and nurturing new talent will ensure our sustainability.”
As I drain the last drops of a rum punch and crunch a melted ice cube, I reflect on the atmosphere of 24 Kitchen Street. Tonight feels like more than just an event…it’s a series of coming-of-age moments within a cultural institution that fosters a transcendent state of mind, powered by beats that pulse with urban cosmopolitan energy.
It’s like a spontaneous banquet with a corner shop flair—unconventional yet undeniably captivating. The venue isn’t just about the night of the event—it’s about the continual evolution of music, culture, and community, always leaving you hungry for the next unforgettable experience.
Written by Iona Fazer.
