The Freebutt

Although this is (or has in the past been) one of Brighton's favourite music venues, I must say I was distinctly unimpressed by it. The décor, or lack thereof, is incredibly dingy and the bar area downstairs has the feel of a bizarre, bare, dismal waiting room. Although, I guess that's essentially what it is as people come out for a break from the main room.

The music venue itself is hot. Not hot as in great or cutting edge, hot as in makes you sweat like a pig with the inability to breathe properly. I could barely last in here to watch my boyfriend's band finish their set. Also, in the middle of the standing area, there's an inexplicably wide pillar blocking the view of about a quarter of the audience.

ALSO (and this is my biggest gripe) the wine they were serving was absolutely foul. Bright yellow, lukewarm cat's pee would be the most apt description. I had to ask the bar staff to add the most acute amount of ice and soda before it was drinkable. But it was all they had. THEN, to make matters even worse, they ran out of wine altogether. On a Friday night. I don't drink anything else, so I was stuck in this horrible place stone cold sober trying to pretend I was having a good time. I didn't succeed.

odd but character…sums it up for sure :)
had few laughs here and music selection has been very good with freeparty vibes goin through here and good live music, havent been there in ages though so not sure now

This is/was probably one of the most well known small venue in Brighton until a few years ago. A frequent arguement between local residents and the venue led to it being closed down, bought up and reopened by a Southampton company.
Since then, has changed out of all recognition. A strangely high stage that’s cut in half by a pilar makes it very unusual and a bit uncomfortable to watch bands.
What was once one of the favourite venues in Brighton (and a pleasure to play) is now a ramshackle embarrassment with no atmosphere.