Cassius Taylor on London’s best-sounding pub

Cassius Taylor on London’s best-sounding pub

When discussing London's nightlife, it's impossible to overlook east London, renowned for its plethora of independent music venues. Cassius Taylor, a DJ and founder of a music-centric events company, is a born-and-bred Londoner with insider knowledge of the city's music scene. Here, he reveals a true hidden gem on the north-western fringes of the East End that has become a second home to many music lovers, renowned musical artists and DJs.

Near the end of uni, and after spending a little too much time on UE Booms at after parties, I realised I had a knack for playing four-plus hours of music and thought to myself, why not get paid to do this? Several years later, myself and Harry Illsley established Telltale events. We founded the business just after the Covid pandemic, which had significantly impacted the music industry and instilled widespread apprehension about events. Driven by our love for music and desire to bring people together, we were inspired to create inclusive and community-driven events to try and help curtail some of this social anxiety.

Beginning as a club night in Shoreditch, our first event took place in the basement studio of the iconic Tea Building, a local landmark. Over the years, Telltale has evolved into a multifaceted events company. Between us, we have organised warehouse raves, club nights and art shows across the UK and US, predominantly in London and New York.

In my younger days, when I initially wanted to get into the music industry, I spent a lot of time on phone calls and in meetings, when really I should’ve been at parties – which you may laugh at, but If I had to give any advice to those aspiring to break into the music industry, it is to be present at as many events, in as many circles and genres as you possibly can. Stay eager, and eventually something will stick. Using this very same method, I one day crossed paths with Mauro Ferno, one of the owners of The Lion & Lamb pub. A couple of years later, I’m throwing nights there.

This takes me on to my secret tip, which is The Lion & Lamb, where I’ve had a residency for the past few months. Tucked away just five minutes from Hoxton station and 10 minutes from Old Street, you’ll find this one-of-a-kind boozer, with elements that you might not find in your standard ’Spoons: incense, soundproofing, a spring floor, a dog and a bespoke Martin Audio sound system, all masked by a thick layer of smoke in the later hours… it’s got London’s best sounding system, in my eyes.

If you had told me this time last year that I would have a residency there, I would have told you to behave yourself. It’s still a dream and a pleasure to be a part of. Usually, on the final Thursday of each month, we host a night there focusing mainly on electronic and dance music genres. Harry and I tend to kick things off during the early evening, followed by the headliner who performs an extended set until close, usually lasting around three hours.

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At The Lion & Lamb, you’ll find incredible artists and DJs spinning records every week, with events generally happening Thursday to Sunday. For example, our most recent bank holiday party in March, had the Make A Dance boys from west London along, who sold out the spot and engaged in some glorious conviviality. (See the photos in this article for proof.)

This pub offers something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed pint and a natter or an energetic music event. The music and team, along with Bruno the pub dog, truly make it a special place.