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Monday, February 13, 2006

Rebirth of Clubbing?

For far too long, Zouk and Phuture has been dominating the clubbing industry in Singapore. Well known in the region for its innovation and style, it has been a frontrunner in the local scene. But all that is set to change as the famed Ministry of Sound that hails from London lands on our shores and enters straight into the fray. Yes there are other clubs in Singapore such as Liquid Room and China Black, but with its arsenal of superstar DJ's and its uber-chic image, its only direct competitor is definately, yes you've guessed it; Singapore's very own Zouk. While it sure helps send the clubbing population in a frenzy, does this famous icon really size up to the competition and give Zouk a run for its money? So just put on your dancing shoes and let our magazine get you in the groove!

Reputation:
Having been picked 4 times for nightspot of the year since its inauguration in 1992 is a testament to Zouk's winning formula. But staying on top of its game for 14 years in fickle minded Singapore is an even greater phenomenon! By far one of the oldest and most reputable clubs in Singapore.

Based in London, Ministry has countless clubs in Europe and Asia, namely Australia, Germany, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Ibiza and of course Singapore. Compared to Zouk's only other outlet in Kuala Lumper Malaysia, Ministry has a far greater worldwide reputation. From producing CDs to creating mobile phones to even running its own tv channel, Zouk comprehensively pales in comparison to the brand factor of Ministry. In fact Zouk was meant to mirror Ministry when it opened! But having to close down its Bangkok branch in 2003 means that Ministry might not have what it takes to succeed in the Asia market.

Size:
Zouk stands at 20,000sq ft.

Ministry of Sound has a whooping 20,000sq ft. Double that of Zouk. Incidentally, it is the biggest Ministry of Sound establishment in the world.

Music:
Ministry of Sound caters to every genre of popular dance music by dishing out progressive house, funk, electro, hip-hop/R&B, disco and soulful house.

Zouk plays progressive house, chill out tunes and hip-hop/R&B. It's famed Wednesday nights or better known as Ladies Night offers some eclectic Mambo grooves. It also has special events when Brit rock, post punk and alternative is played in Phuture.

Rooms:
Ministry of Sound is divided into 7 different sections. The Main Arena houses a 20ft long water curtain and has a giant screen streaming motion videos. This is the area where guest DJs and main events showcase their talents. The main area houses the majority of the clubber.
The Tunnel is a strictly members-only area which serves as an excellent chill-out area due to its low-volume music and condusive atmosphere. It is also the most spacious section of the club.
54 is the name of the 70's inspired Disco mini-club where clubbers can enjoy retro and disco music.
Pure is the place to go to for soulful music. The purple lights that illuminate this small section brings an ethereal feel and the sofa beds spell relaxation.
The Taittinger Sky Lounge is for VIP and societal figureheads. As its name suggests, it is situated at the highest floor of the club and only serves fine wine, cognacs and champagne at the bar.
Smoove is Ministry's answer to Zouk's Phuture and it proves to be the current second most popular section of Ministry, losing only to the Main Arena. R&B is still one of the best crowd pleasers in the Singaporean market.
VIP Suites is self explanatory. Guests may choose what music to be streamed as they are in a completely private environment.

Zouk's main section is self-titled. It has state of the art sound systems and can house the most amount of people in the premises. House music is played by the DJs and occasionally, famous DJs perform here. Just recently at the 6th of January, the current World's Number 1 DJ Paul Van Dyk performed at this very section!
Phuture blasts the lastest in R&B and hip-hop. Constantly keeping itself up to date, it recently overwent a major makeover along with Zouk. LCD panels have been installed and the dancing room has been enlarged to keep up with the growing population of Phuture visitors.
Velvet Underground is an Avant Garde arthouse in a club with a mish-mash of famous designers, sculptors, architects and artists like Philippe Starck, Massimo Iosa-Ghini, Frank Stella and Andy Warhol all having a hand in its interiors. Straight from the velvet padded doors, this club is designed for young working professionals and urbanites.
Wine bar is, as its website suggests 'Zouk's pre-club bar and chill-out area'. A place to go to to get away from the loud noise and people traffic.

sammy says. at 5:09 AM