PRYZM Kingston

Spectacular Venue with Friendly Vibes

Walking into Pryzm in Kingston upon Thames, you’re confronted by a cacophony of contradictions that are all part of its peculiar allure. The venue is a favourite haunt for many seeking out live music, armed with the town's golden goose, Banquet Records, which often hosts an eclectic lineup there. The interiors are lit with hypnotic lights racing across its various levels, providing excellent views regardless if you are anchored at the front or floating on the balcony. This petite spot somehow shrinks the distance between you and your favorite artists, turning concerts into intimate experiences that would thrill any fan. Yet, not everything in this flickering Pandora’s box is perfect; navigating its crowded spaces can feel as labyrinthine as landing a tube carriage at rush hour, but seeing the delighted faces on floors bathed in neon light makes it almost worth the tumult.

The charm of Pryzm partly lies in its staff, varying wildly in helpfulness. On one hand, they display an astonishing level of professionalism, making accessibility a priority for special needs visitors, who report being guided deftly through potential pitfalls. Bouncers like John—endearing and professional in equal parts—amp up the safety quotient, ensuring an enjoyable time. Reviews, however, reveal some impolite qualities, notably among management and certain doormen, whose brusque tendencies can mar an otherwise exceptional gig experience. Yet, many applaud their distinct attention to customer safety, even praiseworthy with detailed bag checks, emphasizing a commitment to zero-tolerance on substances, albeit sometimes overdone. So tread carefully when venturing into Pryzm, where the music crescendos high but not without the odd off-key notes. — Milo Tastemaker