Hybrid, Chew The Fat, Subclub, Glasgow, Sep 1

MacSorleys, with its classy-but-chilled atmosphere, is the obvious pre-Sub choice for Glasgow's dedicated beatseekers. With Chris Marr and Defcon 1 kicking up a storm on the pub's decks, those carrying on to Chew the Fat looked in the mood for something a little harder. Paul Arnold and Bradley C had the honour of kicking off, but seemed a little flat. Despite their effective mixes, throwing in hip hop cut-ups and some stylish tech moments, the beats remained strictly mid-tempo. With all the good work they've done, it was disappointing to see Hybrid following the same path, lazily spinning a bit of house and letting the crowd act as though it was the Summer's last big party. Finally, with the dancefloor heaving, Hybrid started dropping some high quality beats; faster breaks and pounding melodies giving the Sub's magic floor a proper workout. But it was all over too soon. Not quite fat enough, but pleasantly chubby. [Liam Arnold]