Review - Eclipse 30th May 92

After what seemed like an eternity from first reading the exceptional flyer to the actual day of the event it was finally here. The hype and build up of what was due to be a very memorable night was about to get under way. That long awaited Saturday of the month was eventually upon us, and the Eclipse Birthday Bash was only hours from getting started, At last we set off for Cambridge and what promised to be another heady night of madness. A straight run down the A11 for an hour and a half meant we were soon into Cambridge and following the signs for the Lion Yard car park and the Corn Exchange.

As we turned the corner into Wheeler Street we caught a glimpse of the huge queue that had formed as it stretched along side the venue and all the way up the road, near enough back to the car park. This only added to our expectations and further confirmed that we would be in for some unforgettable birthday celebrations and a night to remember.

We headed into the Lion Yard multi storey and made our way up to level 4 and to the security patrolled car parking where we eventually managed to find a space. Car stereo systems boomed out as the atmosphere really started to grow, and all around was the hustle and bustle of ravers getting ready to head down to the queue which was getting bigger all the time.

After moving down the line we finally made our way to the entrance where we were subjected to a very thorough search before being allowed to pass and into the venue. Upon entering the main arena inside the Corn Exchange we were immediately hit by the amazing production and set up the Banks’ boys and Groove II offered. With last month’s introduction of the open stage, which allowed dancers onto the front to do their bit and the centrally located DJ booth we were all hoping for some more of the same. Once again, we were not disappointed as the transformation of the venue was breath taking. There were excellent UV backdrops everywhere that glowed brightly as well as the return of the big ‘moski man’ inflatable that added to the overall atmosphere of the place. Hanging from the ceiling was a massive projection screen, which mesmerised with a display of coloured images and shapes. A huge lighting rig installed at the front flashed and flickered with an array of scans and strobes effective in its cause.

On our arrival we headed straight for the dance area where the floor was shaking from the beats pumping out of the incredible 25K A.S.S. surround system. Already the place was packed as more people continued to pour in and the temperature really began to climb. On the decks Pauly C was warming the party up playing an up beat set with plenty of kick. Unfortunately due to the huge queue we did not get in soon enough to experience Pauly’s set as he handed over the wheels to the capable hands of local jock Ian Stratton.

It was now midnight and time for the anxiously awaited Eclipse laser show. Two lasers, one at each end doing battle with other for supremacy as the brightest display in the land alongside Ian, who opened his set with Zero B’s - Lock Up. Together with the lyrical assistance of MC Ron Jon the place went mental as it rocked to the foundations. Next up it was Eclipse favourite DJ Unity who soon took control with an absolutely mad set between one and two o’clock. Personally I have to wonder if Paul (Unity) is capable of playing a bad set. In all the time I have been following him he has yet to disappoint. Respect is due. Judging by the crowd reaction he went down well with everyone else as well.

After prising myself away from the main arena I headed for the alternative room and was lucky enough to catch at least half of Brandon Block’s set in the upstairs area. Slowing the pace down a little it gave me time to catch my breath and gather some thoughts while heading for the bar.

Back in the main room roars of appreciation went up as guest DJ Trevor Fung touched down, spinning the best set of the night. One hour of pure class and a display in faultless mixing was given. What more can you want? After what seemed only a blink of an eye Trevor then made way for another one of London’s finest, Jumpin’ Jack Frost who also played a wicked set of the latest hardcore anthems.

I then spent the last hour or so floating between the main room and the foyer or chill out area chatting to people and drinking lots of water. Everyone I spoke to had a really good time and were already talking about the next event and the possibility of who may be ‘guesting’, as well as the forthcoming outdoor Eclipse due to be held at Ely again in late August.

For the final hour David Banks’ younger brother Stuart graced the decks playing a bouncy set with some unique mixing and blending in true Eclipse style. What a way to finish an event like this. It was a real shame that the night had to end at all. But as they say, all good things must come to and end!!! And soon the night drew to a close with some filtering out as the blinds were lifted and the sun poured in. Others carried on trying to squeeze every last gyration from their aching limbs going into the final minutes.

As everyone filed out at the end thoughts were on the next event as the flyers were being handed out. How could such a prestigious event be beaten? What could Groove II promotions do to top this production? Well, we would have to wait and see. But if one thing is guaranteed its that what ever happens we would not be disappointed as Eclipse continues to establish itself, going from strength to strength as one of the front runners on the UK rave scene.