What Should You Play at Open Decks?
Open Decks are one of the best ways to connect with other DJs, try out new music, and support the scene. In London, they’re everywhere—from gritty basements to rooftop bars, and each one has its own energy depending on the promoter, crowd, and time of day.
Some of my favourite Open Decks:
- London Sound Academy Networking – good vibes, great talent, and loads of networking.
- Patchouli Deep Open Decks – beautiful energy, usually leaning toward organic and Afro house.
- Pirate Studios Open Sessions – great if you want to get comfy in a pro setting.
But let’s get into the real question: what the hell should you play?
Do you go in repping your usual sound? Match the event’s theme? Or just freestyle based on the vibe?
For me, I move between Organic House and that deeper, club-friendly House. I’m playing a bar in Camden tonight so I’ll bring a few different moods—maybe start with something mellow, then build into more groove-heavy tracks. It’s all about reading the room.
At our Open Decks in Acton I usually ask for Organic, Afro Beats, and what a mate recently called “Mellow House.” Basically: keep it vibey, not bangy. We’re not here to burn the place down at 2 PM.
Should You Practice?
Yeah, 100%. It might be “open,” but that doesn’t mean it’s casual. You never know who’s listening—we’ve had signed artists, famous DJs, and even a Member of Parliament show up at ours.
Music brings people together, but if you’re behind the decks, treat it like a gig.
Respect the craft.
5-Step Approach to Nailing Your Open Decks Set:
- Know the Crowd & Context Is it an afternoon session in a chill cafe or a pre-club warmup in a dark bar? Your track selection should match the energy of the space.
- Check the Theme (if any) Some Open Decks nights have a clear musical direction (e.g. Afro House, DnB, vinyl only). If there’s a brief—follow it.
- Have a Flexible Setlist Bring a few crates: warm-up tunes, peak-time bangers, and one or two curveballs. Build in headroom to respond to the vibe.
- Test Your Transitions Even if it’s 15–20 minutes, rehearse. Short sets are hard—you don’t have time to warm up slowly. Go in tight.
- Support the Promoter This is really my main suggestion. Turn up early, stay late, buy a drink, post about the night, and bring your mates. Promoting is lonely work—and full of doubt. Showing support builds community.
Open Decks are more than a chance to play—they’re a vibe exchange. You give your energy, you get it back. Respect the space, bring your sound, and always say thank you to whoever’s behind the night. They’re the ones keeping the culture alive.
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