Ember LockeKensington London

Sounds of Kensington with DJ Josh Ludlow.

Author: Locke
Last Updated: 23rd January, 2024

Discover the sounds of Kensington with DJ, producer and West London local Josh Ludlow.

Curated by West London DJ, producer and musician Josh Ludlow (@joshludloworld), discover an eclectic array of sounds that celebrates our first West London Locke and the surrounding area of Kensington.

We caught up with Josh and spent some time exploring our new aparthotel Ember Locke and the local area, going record shopping at Notting Hill’s Music and Video Exchange and chatting everything music, life and creativity.

How has London contributed to your creativity and motivation in music?

Having been born here and lived in the city for most of my life, it really is a part of who I am. That's my point of reference - be it for better or for worse.

How do you feel music contributes to someone's experience when it comes to travel?

Everyone's relationship with music and sound is so personal, so I can only really talk about myself. But my travels are often punctuated by the things I hear, and the soundtrack to a trip can last a lifetime.

What has been the biggest motivator in your career?

Just my inherent love for music. It never goes away. My appetite to find new sounds, to change my mood, express myself and build friendships. It's my life.

What inspired your playlist for Ember Locke, and what are some of your favourite tracks on it?

When putting the playlist together, it was very much made with the different spaces of Ember Locke in mind. That, and the music I love to listen to - on the rare occasions I'm not composing my own music or working in the studio.

Picking favourite tracks is too hard - it would feel like picking a favourite child, but I'll pick some personal favourites.

1. Black Sabbath - Planet Caravan.

An unexpected wonder from Black Sabbath. One of the most sublime records ever made. I’ll never tire of the underwater-esque vocals of Ozzy.

Listen on Spotify.

2. Oby Onyioha - Enjoy Your Life.

This record will always make me smile. The sentiment is timeless, and the groove works in any context. It’s on an incredible compilation on Soundway Records, which is now the home of my band ‘Pigeon’.

Listen on Spotify

3. Sweet Clover - You're What I Need

The last two are records I’ve been listening to for years. This is a new find for me - a disco reissue from the late 70s. This will never leave me - pure joy.

Listen on Spotify

Listen to Josh’s playlist and discover the sounds of Kensington on the Locke Spotify.

Get the Spotify playlist.

Lights on at Locke: Scenic spots for winter sun in Lisbon and beyond.

Lisbon offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, even in the Winter.

Lights on at Locke: Where to go in Berlin this Winter.

Heading to Berlin? With such a vibrant city surrounding you planning your itinerary can be difficult, here are some recommendations of where to go in the German capital.

Lights on at Locke: Winter in the city, Zurich.

Want to pretend you live in a festive postcard? Here are six wintry things to do in Zurich.

Lights on at Locke: gift local, discover London’s independent shops for festive treasures.

Support London’s vibrant independent shopping scene, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures and thoughtful gifts. From charming boutiques to hidden markets.

Lights on at Locke: Cambridge Festive Fun.

Watch Cambridge transform into a festive wonderland come winter. With seasonal markets, holiday fairs, and cosy pop-ups to explore.

Lights on at Locke: Your ultimate guide to conscious festive shopping in Manchester.

Manchester’s vintage shopping scene is perfect for anyone wanting to make a statement while staying eco-conscious this festive season. Known for its eclectic mix of independent stores and boutiques.

Lights on at Locke: How to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh

A blow-by-blow itinerary for celebrating New Year’s Eve with gusto in the Scottish capital.

19 Best Cities in Europe for a 3 Day Break

From classic capitals to lesser-known places, here’s the best cities in Europe for a three day city break. Plus the top hotels to stay in when you’re there.

Sounds of Lisbon with Mario Valente.

Get to know the ‘Sounds of Lisbon’ with Mario Valente, DJ and programmer of Locke’s latest bars Spiritland and The Kissaten.

How to spend 5 days in Lisbon.

Who’s got time to plan trips, anyway? Put your Portuguese travels in the trusty hands of Locke’s local Hosts.

My London: Bermondsey and beyond with our House Hosts.

Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Bermondsey and South London with our Bermonds Locke house host, Diana.

City Spotlight: Zurich.

This month we're celebrating Zurich, the home to Locke am Platz and Europe's capital of cool. With its destination dining, rich culture, and dynamic, ever-evolving bar scene, it's a must-visit.