Despite the name, it feels safe to assume that Sala KGB is unrelated to the former Russian secret police, unless the impact of their disbandment by President Yeltsin initiated a wholesale redirection of the organization’s efforts. The ethos of KGB is, in fact, not a closely guarded secret, but an intently public commitment to hardcore partying.

The space itself has the feel of an abandoned warehouse, recalling Manchester’s revered—and long since derelict—Hacienda club. The comparison doesn’t end there, as KGB also emulates the Hacienda’s all inclusive party atmosphere and eclectic musical influences. Resident DJs cite diverse inspirations including bands like New Order and Kraftwerk and styles like acid house and techno-pop. So while house music is taking over club nights, one can expect welcome diversions towards other musical roads less traveled here. Also look out for the occasional punk and rock gigs in KGB’s busy schedule.