Clan – The Flamenco Experience Awaits
I entered the vestibule of the club a little after 1 AM wondering if it was, in fact,
the much lauded flamenco club, Clan. Unconvinced, I quickly scanned
for clues. I saw a medium-sized bar with a chatty group warming the
alcove. Nothing out of the ordinary. But, any lingering
doubts were obliterated as I stepped through the next set of doors. Suddenly, I was confronted with an audience of 40-plus
people, some seated against the wall, others clustered around the small,
stage-facing tables. Now this was the club I had come for!
Without a second to
acclimate, music burst forth. The more boisterous patrons at the bar were
shushed, but continued in whispers. From these first few
moments, I experienced an atmosphere envied by most intimate music clubs: one
that appreciates music without condemning conversation. Even those who
carried on chatting remained fixated on the stage.
I bought a beer and moseyed
to the empty bar in back. A cool collection of hanging lamps, chandeliers,
sconces and candles shed a subdued light on the pastel décor. It is,
however, the music that captured my attention – a kaleidoscope of wailing
accompanied by the intricate rhythms of flamenco guitar all carefully metered
by cajon and palmas.
A quick survey of the
audience proved that flamenco still attracts a Spanish crowd, but also
confirmed its international appeal. The music continued to seduce me until a
longhaired dancer with a broad tie appeared. Launching into a passionate
flurry of exacting motions, the stage could barely contain his intensity. Roles switched and now dance seduced; the explosive energy suddenly silencing even the most
boisterous patrons. Such is the awe-inspiring character of flamenco – no
one is immune.
Before I knew it, the music
was over. The couple next to me asked, perhaps just a bit desperately, if the
show would continue. The waiter said they’d have to return the next night.
You couldn’t help being disappointed, leaving this display of passionate
prowess. Its draw has an almost cultish power – it’s not surprising they call it “Clan”. I know I’ll be back.
Flamenco (and other forms) Club: Clan
Metro: Embajadores
Hours: Mon to Thurs call for hours , Fri and Sat 13:00-3:00; Sun from noon tapas and cañas.
Line-up:
Tues-Wed variable; Thurs pop, Asian,
bossa nova, tango; Fri-Sat Flamenco
Food: main courses 15 to 20 euros, tostas from 7 euros
T: 91 528 84 01
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