For months there have been rumors flying around town of London-based Ministry of Sound extending its music empire to Beijing-rumors, which have been rewarded by the opening of Kandi Klub.

Although Ministry has not officially launched itself in the capital, its recent acquisition, the Hed Kandi label, has been set up at the Great Wall Sheraton, and already has an impressive lineup booked for the coming months.

While this fact alone promises to refresh Beijing's clubbing options, it remains to be seen whether Hed Kandi's super-stylish branding will be diluted by its local partner's ambitions. Ministry's London office maintains that though the club is up, running and open for business, their vision for the interior is yet to be fully realized. This is all very well, but one still can't help eyeing the huge LCD displays, boothed seating area (beloved of dice rattlers), adjoining KTV lounge and RMB 40 for a bottle of Bud Light (wince) with a degree of cynicism.

However, with what is arguably the best sound system in Beijing-especially considering the modest size of the venue-clubbers, for now, can just close their eyes and enjoy some of the best sounds in the city.

Kandi Klub
Location: 1/F, West Hall, The Great Wall Sheraton Hotel
Opening time: Daily 8:30pm-late
Tel: 010-65900770