The first gig I ever went to at the Astoria was in 1989. It was to see a rock band called 'Dare'  - who I think were supporting another band called Garrison, although they may have been headlining themselves. Without diving into a stack of old diaries (as opposed t my nice and easy Access spreadsheet :p) I'm not sure which way round they were on the bill - and not knowing, or remembering, much about Garrison it's hard for me to recall.

Anyway, over 19 years ago I first went to the Astoria for a gig. Over the best part of the following two decades I've been a frequent visitor to both the Astoria and her smaller sister venue a couple of doors down (who has so any name changes over the years but most recently has been known as the LA2 I believe).

Not only did I go to many gigs at both venues I also spent quite a few nights clubbing at both venues. The Astoria was home, back in the late 80's and early 90's, to Londons best Rock Club 'Rockscene' and I spent many Friday nights alternating between the Electric Ballroom's "Full Tilt Club" and "Rocksecene" before Rocksecene eventually closed in favour of The Pink Pounder, which became London's biggest Gay club and then transformed its name to simply G.A.Y years later.

LA2 has also been home to many different clubs that I attended. I remember by first being Buzbys - a Sunday night rock club which I kept missing the last train back from due to London Transports then silly early last train on Sunday evenings (about 11pm). Plus it was on a school night so missing the last train was even more annoying. Over the years I've been to other rock clubs there along with Indie and Goth clubs plus tons of great gigs.

Tonight The Astoria is playing host to it's last ever gig. Tomorrow night LA2 is closing its doors for good.

Both are being demolished to make way for London's Crossrail link.

So thank you Astoria and thank you LA2. Thank you for being part of my life for thye last twenty years and giving me some great memories.

You will both be missed.

In memory of you both I've listed the bands I've seen at both venues. Thanks to SteveGB for giving me that idea.

London will be poorer without you both.