Katsu afterclub Spectrum

The final destination on our second trip took us to an iconic location in Heers: the Katsu! This place holds a special place in the hearts of many partygoers, and we were eager to see what remains of its once-vibrant atmosphere.

Katsu opened its doors in 1996, led by the same visionary owners who had previously operated the legendary Rave Zone Montini. The club quickly became a beacon for electronic music lovers, attracting visitors from far and wide. The exterior and interior design of the club were nothing short of striking, boasting a raw, industrial aesthetic that perfectly captured the underground vibe of the 90s rave scene.

Inside, the atmosphere was electric, with industrial elements and unique decorations, including an oversized couch that became an instant hit among clubbers. This quirky piece of furniture was often the go-to spot for partygoers to relax in between sets, and it’s still fondly remembered by many. For four glorious years, from 1996 to 2000, Katsu welcomed thousands of music enthusiasts to Heers, providing a safe haven for anyone seeking to lose themselves in the rhythm of the night.

Unfortunately, as with many great things, this golden era came to an end. After the year 2000, the crowds dwindled, and the original Katsu eventually closed its doors. For a brief time, the space was revived under the name “Discotheque Underground,” but this venture never quite captured the magic of its predecessor and soon faded away.

In a surprising twist, on March 10, 2006, the venue was transformed into the afterclub Spectrum, reigniting the hopes of the local nightlife scene. Spectrum quickly made a name for itself with an impressive lineup of resident DJs, including the likes of Zinno, Zolex, Dave Lambert, Marco (La Rocca), and Franky Jones. The club pulsed with energy, attracting a loyal following of night owls who were eager to dance the early morning hours away.

However, Spectrum’s story was cut tragically short. Just three weeks after its grand opening, on March 26, 2006, around 3:30 PM, the police launched a major raid on the club. The raid, which made headlines, was a devastating blow to Spectrum. Below, you can watch the VTM News coverage that documented the event:

Following the raid, it didn’t take long for Spectrum to shut its doors permanently. The dream of recapturing the spirit of Katsu was over, and the afterclub never had the chance to realize its full potential.

When we arrived at the location, we found that the building had taken on a completely different life. It is now home to a mattress store, which is a far cry from the pulsating beats that once echoed through its walls. The exterior of the building is well-maintained, though it’s clear that its days as a nightclub are long behind it. Unfortunately, the store was closed during our visit, so we were unable to peek inside and see what, if anything, remains of the club’s interior.

Today, there are no visible remnants of the club’s storied past. The oversized couch, the industrial décor, and the sounds of electronic music have all been replaced by the mundane calm of a retail space. We can only imagine that the local mayor, who likely witnessed the rise and fall of Katsu and its successors, is now content with the peaceful, quieter use of the space.

It’s a poignant reminder of how places that once served as cultural landmarks can fade into obscurity, leaving behind only memories for those lucky enough to have experienced them.