Age Against The Machine

For those of us in Brighton who still want to spend a Saturday afternoon on a dancefloor without waiting until midnight, Age Against The Machine is returning to Dust on 14th February. This underground party has been running for over a decade, led by hosts Don and Reg, and it specifically caters to an over-30s crowd. The session runs from 3pm until 7pm, which fits into a daytime schedule quite differently than the usual late-night club circuit. It’s a space designed for people who aren't interested in "growing old gracefully" and prefer a setting that avoids the standard commercial pop found in most mainstream venues. The event has built its reputation on being a celebration for those who still want to exercise their right to party, just at a more manageable hour.

The music selection is notably broad, covering everything from indie and rock to disco, soul, and punk. You can expect to hear tracks from artists like The Clash, Kate Bush, Prince, and Stevie Wonder, alongside power ballads, Motown, and ska. The organisers have a strict policy against playing current chart hits, focusing instead on a mix that includes Wham, The Cure, David Bowie, Queen, and ABBA. You might also hear The Killers, Spice Girls, or Bon Jovi, as the playlist spans Northern Soul, funk, and rock n roll. This eclectic approach has seen the event travel beyond Brighton to festivals like Latitude, the Isle of Wight, and the Brighton Fringe, maintaining a consistent following for more than ten years.

If you’re planning to head down to the club at 77 East Street, there are a few practical things to keep in mind. Dust is a basement venue accessed via stairs, and it’s important to note that there is no wheelchair access available. Entry is strictly for those aged 30 and over, so bringing an original photo ID is a requirement for getting through the door, regardless of how old you look. Tickets are generally priced at £11.95, and while the party goes on until 7pm, the last entry is at 6pm. For those who can't make the February date, there is another session already scheduled for 28th March, following the same daytime format and musical direction.