Cindies vs Fez: The Great Debate
Varsity offers up a brief breakdown of Cambridge’s greatest debate
Ever since time immemorial, Cambridge has been racked by division and dissension in the form of the ultimate unending, ongoing battle between nightclubs. None have escaped such strife, but while some conversations might become heated when expostulating the relative merits of Lola’s or Life (or whether Danger Spoons will ever actually be a thing), when it comes down to it, there is only ever one real debate. Fez or Cindies? Your allegiance can make or break friendships (and nights out), so we’ve compiled the best (and probably most biased) opinions. Read, ponder and pick a side.

Sam Mellor
Student DJ
After spending my fi rst term in Cambridge trying to emulate Liam Gallagher’s drinking behaviour and following the party for better or worse, I soon discovered there was an alternative. I rapidly became fed up of Big Fish Ents because they off er no variety or legitimacy – there is no identity to any one of their nights, musical or otherwise, never any uniqueness brought by headline acts or original ideas. They serve a purpose, but are just functional parts of one big, generic, money-making machine. Fez provides a diverse selection of events week in week out, with external student promoters such as CREEM and Rudimental bringing their own musical flavours and dedicated crowds with them. It may be a clich., but there is an atmosphere about the place, you feel part of something meaningful regardless of what’s on off er that night (unless it’s a Wednesday...), and people care about that. Besides, the drinks are cheaper too, so what’s the debate?
Steph MacAulay
Lacrosse Club President
Step inside Cindies and be overwhelmed by the unavoidable sight of post swap passion, the scent of stale curry, and some seriously cheesy music. Ok, so on paper Cindies might not have much going for it. But look beyond this and it’s easy to understand why Cindies has become Cambridge’s biggest nightlife institution. Let’s face it, Cindies takes you on a trip back through the nineties and naughties, with the Year 3000 in between. It’s never a good night without 2am rendition of e Circle of Life or the closing time interpretation of Don’t Look Back In Anger. Plus, we’ve all had those special moments, where we’ve caught the eye of a hunky hottie from halfway across the dance fl oor, as we mouth the lyrics to Teenage Dirtbag. You just can’t get that kind of chemistry with dubstep.
Ultimately, it’s the place to see and be seen. Come Wednesday night, everyone who’s anyone can be found in Cindies: perusing the bar or schweffing out in the smoking area. Many a post swap friendship (and often a lot more) has blossomed at this delightful establishment. The home of comfort clubbing – nothing is frowned upon here. No one will bat and eyelid if you turn up in a onesie, stash or your PJs. Leave your heels at home, hold your nose and learn to love Cambridge’s only (important) nightclub.
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