Few places in the world have the club turnover that Moscow has, but there are some clubs that target themselves carefully enough to survive the constant demand for new styles. Art Garbage has the distinct feel of such a club. Located in an old building, it occupies three rooms and, during the summer months, a delightful courtyard. The atmosphere is almost too laid back to believe, with the emphasis on seating areas — comfortable rooms clad with a great variety of artwork and, reassuringly, no garbage to be seen.

The dance room, located to provide music throughout the venue, is equally mellow. Since it is not the primary attraction, it’s less than packed, which means that you have space to dance but won’t feel like you are on display (unless you want to be of course). The same room serves as a venue for live performances that are usually on Friday nights. Razni Ludi (Different People) put on a hard rock set with Alexander Chernetski on review night. The DJ spun a lively mix – it lacked imagination but was varied enough to draw even the most relaxed of patrons out for the occasional dance.

With beer starting at the disturbingly low price of 30 rubles, the taps were flowing all night. The service is efficient, and the clientele seems pleasantly varied, turning out in reasonable numbers even now during the slow, wet summer spell. The large courtyard makes a perfect spot for a relaxing beer, day or night. Keep your fingers crossed for a dry spell, but Art Garbage is worth the visit anyway.

5 Starosadki Per. Metro: Kitai Gorod
Tel: 928 8745 Hours: always open
Cover: varies for concerts