ICBMs is the biggest club in Canberra. It has the biggest repuation, and the largest capacity. It consists of two distinct clubs. Downstairs is more of a loungy bar that seems to cater for a slightly older crowd, maybe 25 years and older. Upstairs is a danceclub, more like the sorts of venues you find in Melbourne. It is a large, dark, moody hall, with loud pumping house and commercial dance tunes. They seem to keep the areas distinct, basically by operating the two rooms independently, with different entrances.
The upstairs room seems to be called Insomnia. It seems to be open most nights of the week, and has a fairly consistent theme. Good heavy dance tunes, plenty of house, with a few commercial tunes added in. The room develops a very good atmosphere, courtesy of the music and a good lightshow.
After you trundle up the stairs, you can turn left to a bar and lounge area, right to the cloak room and small bar, or head straight ahead to some tables. Beyond those tables, the club opens up, with a dancefloor, and another lounge bar area which overlooks the dancefloor. The dancefloor lighting and sound system set the club up. The room is generally dark and moody, with a row of windows which allow you to look out on the street below.
The crowd seems to be reasonably young by Canberra standards, with most aged 18-22. The either dress up or clubby depending on whether people are there to dance or hang-out. It is a very good night out.
The downstairs room is a bit older. There is no defined dancefloor, and the music tends to be targeted to 22-30s, with heaps of party favourites in the mix. The crowd dresses all over the place, from really dressed up to jeans and t-shirts. It is more of a lounge bar than anything else.
As you enter the room, you have couches to the right, a bit of space for dancing straight ahead, and stairs to the left. These stairs lead to a crowded bar area.
For me, the highlight is definitely upstairs in insomnia. It is a real clubbers club, with a good mix of music. If you like a younger crowd, it is definitely a place to check out.
