Scene Spotlight: Lau’s Birthday Party
Cutting through the ever growing cacophony of London’s independent music scene, comes a fresh curation of underground excitement known as Lau’s Birthday Party.
Laura Pacifici’s birthday concept was born last year on her 24th birthday. The Italian native and beloved George Tavern staple has since transformed her party into a full blown promotions company regularly showcasing some of the most eclectic and captivating new bands in the UK.
The first ever “birthday party” took place in March of 2024 at The George Tavern and featured none other than Wunderhorse as the secret headliner. Quite the momentous occasion considering the band would announce a headline show at the 10,000 capacity Alexandra Palace and embark on massive European and American tours just a few months after Laura’s event. It may well have been the last time the band would play a venue of that size.
Wunderhorse performing at The George Tavern for Lau’s Birthday Party in 2024.
The first “Birthday Party” of the year took place on 2nd March. It was a stacked all dayer featuring the fast rising scuzz rock darlings C Turtle, and South London slowcore icons Deathcrash, supported by a wide variety of mischievous London noisemakers: Child3, Denh Izen, The Cowards, Long Distance Runner, Kiss gem.burn, and Jimmy and The Boonies. Throughout the day and leading into the evening, the air was crackling with excitement that only got better as the day went on. Notably, Deathcrash tested a brand new set filled with songs off their unreleased album; a testament to the safe creative space Lau has created with her events. By the time C Turtle hit the stage, the crowd was bouncing with glee and singing along to every fuzz soaked word.
C Turtle performing at Lau’s Birthday Party, 02/03/2025
Lau’s Birthday Party, The George Tavern, 02/03/2025
The George Tavern, a dimly lit East London pub is a refuge for countless musicians, artists, and misfits in a city that seems determined to price them out. It is yet another independent grassroots music venue fighting tooth and nail to protect its place as a priceless creative hub. Lau’s Birthday Party is fighting the good fight using the strength of community, local talent, and a strong DIY work ethic to provide a place for new music to be celebrated.
Photos: Lily Doidge and Lucas John Eveleigh Edwards