Dundee venue Clarks on Lindsay Street has announced its closure, following a struggle in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Taking its name from founders Scott Clark and brother Kit, formerly of 80s chart act Danny Wilson, the city centre venue has gone into voluntary liquidation.
A statement from the venue’s owners said: “The Clarks’ vibe and social distancing don’t get along at all and simply can’t be in the same room together. And social distancing doesn’t look like going away any time soon.
“To put it another way, you remove the heart and soul – and replace it with a risk assessment.
“For us, it was never gonna work… and was never gonna break even either.”
Since opening in August 2011, the venue garnered a reputation as a destination for quality touring acts, staging shows by the likes of Aberfeldy, James Grant, China Crisis, The Pearlfishers, The Rutles, Paul Young’s Los Pacaminos, Jesse Rae, Fatherson, Randolph’s Leap, The Burning Hell, Catholic Action, Blue Rose Code, Kathryn Joseph, Nerina Pallot, Be Charlotte, Chris Difford, Boo Hewerdine, Black, BMX Bandits, Wreckless Eric, and Stoor.
Also on a bill were The Swiss Family Orbison, whose frontman Gary Clark – brother of Kit and Scott – said: “When I returned from L.A. a few years ago, I was moved to tears with pride and admiration for my brothers Scott and Kit when I walked into the world class music venue that they had created in the heart of our home city of Dundee.
“Clark’s consistently pro-artist stance and the sheer quality and diversity of the music they championed and showcased there means that a giant, gaping cultural hole has been dug out of the heart of the city and of Scotland’s music scene.
“To Scott, Vikki, Kit, Lisa and all of the amazing staff and musicians who made Clarks the force that it was, I say thank you. No-one and nothing can take a way the incredible thing that you created and the happiness and joy that you gave to the many thousands of people who came there to listen to great music, dance and celebrate life. You are the true superstars. R.I.P Clarks on Lindsay Street. May your spirit live on.”
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