Craning necks, mosh pits, skanking, arms thrown around each other in chorus - yes, watching bands and having a boogie at Nottingham's Rock City feels like a lifetime ago.
The Talbot Street live music venue and club shut its doors in line with lockdown guidelines in March and if the latest Government announcement is anything to go by, revellers will have to hang on a while yet before throwing their glad rags back on.
But it's not just the thousands of students, youngsters, gig-goers and seasoned patrons who are longing for a dance and a bev at their favourite haunt, the staff are in the same boat too.
We asked Rock City promotions manager Adam Wood what the team are missing the most about working at the venue, which turns 40 this year.
- The excitement in the moments before we open the doors - last minute checks are done and we are just excited to get people in
- Walking up the Main Hall stairs into a full room of people having a great time
- The camaraderie between all of our staff throughout every shift, never a dull moment
- Watching bands walk out onto the stage and shouting "Good evening Rock City"
- Making ideas come to life inside the club with new drinks, stage decor, special effects... the list goes on
- A queue of excited customers down Talbot Street
- Never thought we would say it... the chanting in the smoking area
- Customers leaving after an event with smiles on their faces
- The sweet smell of Jager-soaked floor boards when we open up in the morning
- End of shift beers
