The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of our lives and continues to do so into this new year. One of the industries hardest hit by continuing restrictions and UK lockdowns is one that is of serious importance to us here at PHIX: Britain's live music scene. As a brand deeply rooted in, and inspired by, a love of music, its history and culture, we are proud to support London photographer Alex Amoros' contribution to the #SaveOurVenues campaign.
Amorós, himself a musician, has documented 40 of London's deserted live music venues in a beautiful black and white photobook, which he produced over three weeks in the UK's second lockdown, during November 2020. The piece features well-known venue facades, as well as eerily dusty interiors, unplugged neon lights and poignantly captured coronavirus paraphernalia.
This blog post contains just a small sample of some of the wonderful venues included in the book, among them are The Lexington, Moth Club, The Victoria Dalston, The Shacklewell Arms, Electric Ballroom, The Hawley Arms, Nothing Hill Arts Club, The Hope & Anchor, 100 Club & The Social.
"I wanted to give something back & show support in whatever way I can." Amorós explained, in his press release for the work. "I have considered it important to promote the precarious situation in which many industries find themselves. The music industry itself not only employs a huge amount of people, but is the heart and soul of the London; giving joy to many and bringing people together".
The book is available for pre-order now, with profits going towards the continuing campaign to save the UK's struggling live music scene, in this difficult period: