Mista is one of the DJs due to play at The Townhouse.

The Townhouse (formerly Budah Bar) opened in August and is fast becoming known as a place for good music, but with no drunken louts, fights or overpriced cocktails.

Last Saturday DJ oneofakind hit it up behind the decks, playing an array of funk, soul and hip-hop classics.

Over the past few weeks, the venue has been home to a diverse line-up, featuring everything from Motown to garage and ska, 50s rock, breakbeat and house.

And it’s a place that everyone wants to play, with new owner Sam Jarrold’s diary becoming bombarded with bookings.

Explaining why he took on the venue, Sam said there needed to be a bar where ‘the music was consistently good, varied and where people in a wider age range would feel comfortable’.

‘The bar had to look smart but not pretentious, and provide a relaxing environment with the capacity to come alive for weekend parties when the DJs are playing – a place where I would want to drink – somewhere between Laska and the de la Rue.’

As well as DJs at the weekends, the bar also has an acoustic night on Thursdays and on Wednesdays has Mike Meinke, with a night called Strum and Bass.

‘The selection of music is key,’ said Sam. ‘I am a massive fan of live music and impressed with the talent on-island, who need a regular outlet. DJ-wise, Sam wanted a variety, from funky house, electro and the eclectic style that oneofakind and Mista bring. I am open to many styles, but it has to be acceptable to a wide audience, which rules out drum and bass, trance etc, because it’s a bar where you can hear good tunes and have a dance – it’s not a nightclub to rave in.’

The Townhouse will grow as a venue, with Sam set to get more people involved with the acoustic nights and more DJs to fit the bill.

‘I reckon there’s probably a few bedroom DJs hidden away,’ he said.

‘So I’m toying with the idea of an open deck night, which gives people a chance to get a weekend night.’