Escos all go-go

BEAT BOY: Former DJ Peter Nell is back behind the decks and donning headphones for Escalation Reunion II. Picture: Reg Ryan

DJs and disco tragics from a generation ago will reunite later this month to relive the glory days of a former Geelong nightclub.
Organisers said Escalation Reunion II, reported in last week’s Double Take, would bring back “Geelong’s hottest nightspot” of the ’70s and ’80s.
The venue, upstairs at 5 James St, was a magnet for late-night revellers with its mix of pumping music, dazzling disco lights and dark corners.
Lou Volpe, a former Escalation DJ, said the reunion on 27 March would be a “new and improved” version of a similar gathering that sold-out last year.
Other Escalation DJs on the bill included Peter Nell, John Coppola, Murray Costoso, John Rosani and Nick Yalizis.
“I’ve been inundated with enquiries for ticket sales since the event was announced via Facebook in early January,” Volpe said.
“There are people making the trip from New South Wales, Queensland and even Perth to attend the night. It’s good to see that the old nightclub still means so much to people after all these years.”
Volpe said other DJs set to play the reunion included Patrizio Adamo, Paul Schroeter and Chasers’ Deejay Samstar.
Volpe said the new owners had gutted the club “to bring back some class and sophistication”.
“After completing the extensive renovation they’ are graciously allowing Escalation patrons an exclusive first look at the new St James Bar and Nightclub before its official grand opening.”
Volpe said the reunion would include memorabilia giveaways, a $500 prize for best costume and “a couple of hundred familiar faces”.
Anyone wanting tickets could phone him on 0417 317 808, he said.