FOLD is a collectively run audio-visual performance space and studio complex nestled in an industrial wasteland
Founded by a group of eclectic artists, DJs and party people, FOLD is a never seen before, organically built venue and creative space with a 600 capacity 24-hour dance floor. The music collective is situated above a print factory on an industrial estate between Canning Town and Star Lane with a second room opening later this year. Benefiting from 24-hour access to the Jubilee line and London Overground, space sits within a non-residential location, giving the tailored sound system (un)limited at 110DB and a bottom end of 32hz the freedom to fill the main room which is complete with lighting to rival venues twice it’s size. This unassuming building will soon be rumbling for the launch party which takes place on August 18th and runs for at least 24 hours. It celebrates London’s most progressive party crews and DJ collectives – coming together to unite fellow ravers from all over the city.
Crews coming together for the launch party include queer party starters Homodrop & Resis’dance to Andy Blake’s World Unknown. Local techno legends Make Me and electronic media Test Pressing also make appearances with Body Hammer, Dimensions, UNITI, Goldsnap, SIREN, !HTBX, Opulence, Possession, Reviveher, Left Alone, KAOS, Body Motion, Gdanse, Structure, Global Roots (Worldwide FM), Homodrop, SC&P and of course FOLD.
Lasha Jorjoliani (Voicedrone), co-founder of FOLD says “FOLD presents an uncompromising schedule of forward-thinking electronic music. Veering away from the regular 4 to the floor, we offer a smorgasbord of alien sounds from the unknown. 24-hour events generally take place on Saturdays, Fridays we go till late and mid-week live events are till 3 am. Our opening season includes label takeovers from Ilian Tape, Clone & Pinkman, with a carefully curated selection of headliners supported by FOLD crew. The 24hr programme gives us a unique opportunity to surprise, challenge and inspire. Expect extended set times, obscure b2bs and a generally more expansive pallet of sounds over the course of one event.”
FOLD evokes a rave renaissance; its focus on inclusivity, togetherness & dancing is demonstrated in the clubs code on respect. As part of this, FOLD has a no photo policy. The music programme reflects the most progressive electronic sounds from the UK and beyond.
Seb Glover, co-founder of FOLD says “London, unlike other leading European cities such as Berlin or Amsterdam, has struggled in recent times. Gentrifying forces has put huge pressures on artists and musicians, with many leaving as a result. Licensed venues, which is where artists and DJs are predominantly able to earn their living have come under attack. What we have created at FOLD is a new home, tucked away from the pressures of the city, a place where you can listen to extended sets on a tuned sound system tailored to the specifications of the room to maximise the experience of the space. We strive to do things differently in London, cultivating a more continental approach, creating a place where you can spend extended periods or coming and going as you please. We welcome All Races. All Religions. All Genders. All Countries of Origin. All Sexual Orientations… Our focus is on creating a safe space that is disconnected from the intense pressures of London life, that allows freedom of expression, positivity and inspiration to take form.”
FOLD will pioneer a new membership scheme with access to larger community events, intimate special events plus benefits to other Shapes Collective sites. The key fob membership card ensures an easy experience for all attendees – simple scan for entry, scan at the bar and scan for lockers. Further details to follow.
To ensure speedy entrance and getaway personal possessions are stowed in lockers located around the space. For regular visitors, padlocks can be purchased and a personal locker reserved. FOLD accept all kinds of cryptocurrency in exchange for any purchases on site.
Off the main room, there are five purpose-built music studios with 24-hour access, acoustic treatment, air conditioning and access to the main room sound system. These are available for hire to applicable artists by appointment of the FOLD crew.
The Shapes Collective:
Fighting London’s woeful recent past in club closures, The Shapes Collective add FOLD to its ever-expanding list of spaces. Born from an ever-growing community of artists across multiple sites London-wide. The Shapes Collective offers a comprehensive platform for creatives from all walks to come together, collaborate and bring ideas to life. Other projects include Many Hands which offers studio space to over 400 artists and associated industries in Bermondsey. Members have access to on-site cafe bars, roof-top and an integrated artist-led programme of events. A second venue run by the collective is The Glove That Fits, an intimate art-bar and event space supporting left-of-centre music, installs, talks, workshops and DJs in Hackney.
See ticket information HERE