Hidden discreetly between shophouses in Boat Quay is Headquarters, the first of Thugshop’s venues for underground dance music seekers, and its signature darling destination. It opened its doors in 2016 and has been a staple spot in the circuit, with a 2-for-1 experience via dual floors - Upstairs and Headquarters - to feed all sorts of music appetites.

 

HQ (as it's affectionately known) is the first of the 2 floors, and is renowned for its distinct caged booth tucked behind an unassuming sliding door. The venue’s narrow floor and red beaming lights makes for an intimate, sonically hugging corridor that predominantly champions Techno. In the past though, it's played host to international acts such as Peggy Gou, Gerd Janson, Perc, Boris, Cera Khin and many more.

 

The penthouse floor, Upstairs, boasts a wider space that allows patrons a more communal dancefloor, whilst also connected to an outdoor patio that overlooks the city's skyline. Here, House, Disco, and many shades take precedence, mirroring its convivial environment. Notable acts such as Soichi Terada, Tornado Wallace, Matthias Meyer, Shubostar, Gonno and more have all filled the spot within.

 

As underground venues go, HQ's gritty character and its purposefully stained, graffiti-laden walls invites everyone in town looking to satisfy their indulgence, with programming beginning as early as Wednesdays. As legacy clubs go, it's also a spot for key local selectors and fresh artists alike to share their craft.