Passing Clouds Bar

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by Sara Feenan (subscribe)

www.sarafeenan.com

Published September 4th 2012

Float by on a Passing Cloud

passingclouds.org

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If Passing Clouds were a cloud it would be a large white, fluffy one, making way for the sun and brimming with personality and atmosphere.

Situated in a converted residential property in amongst the buzz of Dalston, and frequented by those from around the globe, you could be anywhere in the world (I like to pretend I'm in Brazil).

With not a Coca-Cola product in sight behind the bar, and invariably world music spun out from the decks and performed on stage, it truly is one of the most independent and international places to go for a relaxed and friendly boogie on a Friday or (/and) Saturday night.

The ground floor hosts live music from 10 piece bands, to quick-as-a-flash MCs and imparts an Afro-Caribbean theme; up-coming events feature a night to raise money for Greenpeace an the following week one can 'get loose' for the Autumn Equinox.

The first floor shakes its hips in the direction of Latin-America, and has the pushed-back-sofa feel of a house party, where you can samba your way to oblivion and have your face painted. The whole venue is inclusive, relaxed, casual and fun.

The enigmatic Passing Clouds describes itself as a 'unique cultural project', hosting events every night of the week, from town-hall style community talks, to live music showcases on Friday and Saturday nights; cosy film-screenings to the Sunday Peoples' Kitchen.

Run by the people for the people, there is a real light and airy sense of community and the staff, unconventionally enough, give the impression they want to be there.

Go on, float by on a Passing Cloud