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COVER SHOT: DOMINIKA SCHEIBINGER
INFLUENTIAL VENUES // LIVE MUSIC AND EVENTS // MONTHLY GUIDE
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FIRST WAVE ANNOUNCEMENT
#RUNALLDAY
08 SEPTEMBER 2018 BRISTOL NOON TIL 10:30PM
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
SUB FOCUS (DJ SET) SASASAS DIMENSION ED RUSH & OPTICAL b2b BLACK SUN EMPIRE LOGAN D ft. EVIL B FABIO & GROOVERIDER (CLASSIC RAGE JUNGLE SET)
SHADOW DEMON COALITION: BASSMAN / TRIGGA / VOLTAGE SERUM ft. INJA & NAVIGATOR FUTURE CUT BENNY PAGE b2b SERIAL KILLAZ MED SCHOOL SHOWCASE: ETHERWOOD / ANILE / HUGH HARDIE TNA: AZZA / GRIMA / NU ELEMENTZ SS ft. SKIBADEE (HISTORY LESSON) NICKY BLACKMARKET T>I b2b UPGRADE MOLLIE COLLINS / D*MINDS CRITICAL IMPACT / LIMITED INSIDERS / DAZEE MOVE: N3GUS & PLATINUM STOKKA / TS2W EKSMAN / ID / JAKES RAGGA TWINS / 2SHY TEXAS / CARASEL / REMIDY + MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED!
2018 CAMPAIGN
A CELEBRATION OF MUSIC, THE ARTS AND YOU
2-5 AUGUST 2018
THE MOUSE OUTFIT • JENNA AND THE G'S JONO MCCLEERY • THE BLINDERS OH MY GOD! IT’S THE CHURCH AFRIKAN BOY • SON OF KONG DIAL-A-RAVE • RACHEL K COLLIER • HARVEY CAUSON • BROOKE SHARKEY JOHN FAIRHURST • LESTER FRANCO & HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE MICHAEL JABLONKA • COUSIN KULA • TRUE STRAYS GARRY SPACEPOPE • RUBY CONFUE • REVEREND LEMON • GRACE SAVAGE LITTLE THIEF • ALEX ROBERTS • JIMMY ALDRIDGE AND SID GOLDSMITH • JAUSME PLUMMIE RACKET & THE DICEMEN • SOLOMON OB • YOUR FRIEND THE POET MICHAEL C UNWIN • PAULO FERNANDEZ • CONRAD OLENDE • THE BIG SETS • BLK FXS GECKO • BOUDICA BOOGALOU • SANKOFA 3 • THE COMPACT PUSSYCAT PLUS MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED PLUS GAMES + MUSIC + WORKSHOPS + LOCAL FOOD & DRINK + MASSAGE ADVENTURES + ARTS & CRAFTS + FIELDVIEW ROCKEOKE+ LATE NIGHT VENUES GLAMPING + POETRY + FACE PAINTING + YOGA + LOADS MORE TO DISCOVER
INTRODUCING THE 2018 THEME
the
WILTSHIRE’S BIGGEST LITTLE FESTIVAL 3 DAYS • 3 STAGES • OVER 75 ARTISTS FIELDVIEW IS A NON-PROFIT, GRASS ROOTS, WEEKEND OF HAPPINESS AND ADVENTURES. RUN BY VOLUNTEERS, OUR SURPLUS FUNDS GO TO CHARITIES AND CAUSES WE LOVE AND BELIEVE IN
5 – 8 JULY 2018 NEAR BRISTOL, UK
DIZZEE RASCAL | RUN DMC | DAMIAN "JR.GONG" MARLEY DE LA SOUL | JAX JONES LIVE | STEFFLON DON | BUGZY MALONE | VIC MENSA ANDY C | SIGMA | WILKINSON DJ SET | AJ TRACEY D&B DJ SET
FOUR DAYS OF SKATE + BMX
INTERNATIONAL SKATE & BMX COMPETITIONS H U N D R E D S O F E U R O P E ’S B E ST S K AT E R S & R I D E R S | £6 0,0 0 0 P R I Z E P U R S E
CONGO NATTY | YXNG BANE | FRED V & GRAFIX LIVE GENTLEMAN’S DUB CLUB | LADY LESHURR | FRICTION | FLAVA D HOLY GOOF | DARKZY | A.M.C & TURNO | NATTY EATBRAIN LEAGUE x STATE OF MIND B2B JADE B2B L 33 FEAT MC NUKLEAR OCEAN WISDOM | KILLBOX | KINGS OF THE ROLLERS THE HEATWAVE | KAHN & NEEK | STEEL BANGLEZ | JAYKAE | THE HEAVYTRACKERZ FLOHIO | EVA LAZARUS & THE AFRONAUGHTS | DILLON COOPER | THE FOUR OWLS TROJAN SOUND SYSTEM | JUBILEE | EVIL B VS B LIVE | RENÉ LAVICE | RUDE KID IZZIE GIBBS | YOUNG T & BUGSEY | CRISSY CRISS | ANNIX | AMY BECKER JAMZ SUPERNOVA & STUSH | ZACH SAID | AIDAN COKER | SHAPES | REBEL KLEFF MAD HATTERS MANSION IN COLLABORATION WITH GOOD LIFE FEATURING: SONNY FODERA | LOW STEPPA | PAUL WOOLFORD | MELÉ | T WILLIAMS | ELI BROWN SIKA STUDIOS PRESENTS: SIKA RECORDS X RLD RECORDS X OFF ME NUT RECORDS FEATURING: DEVILMAN | SOX | BADNESS | DIZZLE KID | DANJA | MAL | OMUS ONE CHUCKY | SIKA RECORDS DJS | LEAF DOG & BVA | JMAN | SMELLINGTON PIFF JACK JETSON | ERIC THE RED | SEAN PENG | ILLINFORMED | DJ JAZZ T PHATWORLD | THORPEY | KORSE & BASSHOUND | SUPERIOR CORNROWS | VENZ STREET ART CURATED BY UPFEST
INSANE 51 | 45RPM | SEPR | TONY RIFF | JODY | SI MITCHELL | VOYDER | DONK | PAUL MONSTERS KID CRAYON | SHUBY | SILENT HOBO | GUMS AND TONGUE: CAPTAIN KRIS | THE REAL DILL | OBIT OUST | TONYBOY | DAHKOH | UNWELLCOME RELATIVES: BOSWELL | LOKEY | PENN | SEZ | SHABS
EUROPE’S LARGEST VERT RAMP | CUSTOM-BUILT STREET COURSE | RING OF FIRE | PUBLIC SKATE PARK WALLRIDE CONTEST | MINI RAMPS | STREET SPOTS & JAMS | DIRT JUMPS | DJ & MC WORKSHOPS | STALL YARD TRUCK & BEARING PUB | FILM SCREENINGS | SILENT DISCO | REGGAE SHACK | VIP & GLAMPING + MORE
LINE UP SUBJECT TO CHANGE
HIGHLIGHTS
best events this month 22-25
COMPETITION
Grillstock festival 26
PROFILES
kayla painter 27 mikey snooze 27
LOCAL TALENT
bengal sound 28-29
PREVIEW
valis ablaze 36-37
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH
JUNE 2018
sika studios 38-39
FEATURED VENUES
51 Stokes Croft 40 O2 Academy 41 the canteen 42 colston hall Presents 43 Crofters Rights 44
exchange 45 The Fleece 46 The Full Moon 47 GALLIMAUFRY 48 The Golden Lion 49
hy-brasil 50 the lanes 51 MotherS’ Ruin 52 Mr Wolfs 53 THE OLD market assembly 54
swx 55 THekla 56 to the moon 57 Trinity 58
Photography: Dominika Scheibinger / Martin Thompson / Ania Shrimpton / Khali Photography / Soul Media / Paul Lippiatt / Connor Baker / shotaway.com / Dean Forrest nitelifeonline.com | facebook.com/nitelifebristol | info@nitelifeonline.com | Tel: 07590 993 523 Director Carlos Javier
Editor Rachel Morris Commercial Manager Jodie Guichard Art Director Steve Hughes adhesive-design.co.uk Photo Editor Dominika Scheibinger Print Stephens & George Distribution Javier Fox
Features Abi Lewis, Georgie Partington
10 // SELECTION
SELECTION // 11
12 // SELECTION
SELECTION // 13
14 // SELECTION
SELECTION // 15
16 // SELECTION
SELECTION // 17
Photograph Š Simon Holliday
bristolmuseums.org.uk
19 May – 30 Sep 2018 A pay what you think exhibition
YOUR
MUSIC CAREER STARTS HERE
DEGREE AND FULLY FUNDED DIPLOMA COURSES GUITAR • BASS • DRUMS • VOCALS • SONGWRITING MUSIC PRODUCTION • MUSIC BUSINESS • EVENT MANAGEMENT MUSIC JOURNALISM
STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES UNRIVALLED CONNECTIONS TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY EUROPE’S MOST CONNECTED MUSIC COLLEGE
BIMM.CO.UK/BRISTOL
book
0117 203 4040 colstonhall.org P
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Colston Hall loudly and proudly presents great shows in venues across the city Tue 5 Jun
Fri 13 Jul
Sun 22 Jul
Sun 5 Aug
Brennen Leigh & Noel McKay
Josh Rouse
The Grahams
John Moreland
The Redgrave Theatre
The Wardrobe Theatre
St George’s Bristol
Mon 16 Jul
Mon 23 Jul
Thu 16 Aug
Quantic Live
Kelly Willis
Wye Oak
Trinity Centre
The Redgrave Theatre
The Louisiana
Wed 18 Jul
Mon 23 Jul
Sat 8 Sep
Steve Earle & The Dukes
Sam Palladio
Tony Allen X Amp Fiddler
The Wardrobe Theatre Wed 6 Jun
Born Ruffians The Exchange Sun 17 Jun
An Evening with Kristin Hersh The Redgrave Theatre Fri 29 Jun
O2 Academy Bristol Wed 18 Jul
St George’s Bristol Wed 25 Jul
Graham Nash
The East Pointers
Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys
The Folk House
Loco Klub
Thu 26 Jul
Sat 30 Jun
Thu 19 Jul
Ata Kak
The Barr Brothers
St George’s Bristol
Fiddlers
Thekla
Tue 10 Jul – Sun 5 Aug
Fri 20 Jul
River Town: Bristol’s Americana Festival
Jimmy Cliff + Grandmaster Flash + Trojan Soundsystem (feat. KIOKO)
Multiple Bristol venues Tue 10 Jul
The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer The Louisiana Wed 11 Jul
The White Buffalo + Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real O2 Academy Bristol
Lloyds Amphitheatre Sat 21 Jul
Jess & The Bandits The Wardrobe Theatre Sun 22 Jul
Emily Barker, Holly Macve & Jade Bird St George’s Bristol
St George’s Bristol
Rosanne Cash Fri 27 Jul
Marlon Williams Fiddlers Wed 1 Aug
Mike Love The Attic Thu 2 Aug
Jonathan Bree Rough Trade Bristol Sat 4 Aug
An Evening with Roddy Woomble, John McCusker & Friends The Folk House
Fiddlers Mon 10 Sep
Jurassic Park in Concert Bristol Hippodrome Sun 23 Sep
José González & The String Theory O2 Academy Bristol Thu 27 Sep
Ólafur Arnalds Bath Forum Sat 13 Oct
Martin Simpson The Station Tue 16 Oct
Chatham County Line Fiddlers Sat 20 Oct
Chris Ramsey Anson Rooms
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JUNE
HIGHLIGHTS 1. MANKALA
Performing their unique, high-energy, pan-African coalition of sounds, the multi-national collective Mankala, will transform you to a place of joyous sounds and grooves. Heavily influenced by a variety of African rooted styles. 1 Jun // 8pm – 2am // £3 // Leftbank
2. END OF TERM SUMMER SPECIAL W/ BIG NARSTIE, LUCK & NEAT + MORE Motion celebrates the end of term with a big summer special that’ll set your summer off in style. Big Narstie and friends will be taking over the stage, along with Luck & Neat, 24-hour Garage Girls, Blast DJ’s, Take off Bristol and many more. 1 Jun // 3pm – 3am // £13.50 - £17.50 // Motion
3. MASEGO
6. BORN RUFFIANS
4. SHOTGUN DRUM & BASS SESSION VOL: 7
7. ASTRAL TUSK II
5. COURTNEY BARNETT
8. HACKNEY COLLIERY BAND + BOCA 45 + MUTANT VINYL
Masego delivers a synthesis of Pharrell, Michael Jackson and Jamie Fox, creating what’s best described as TrapHouseJazz. Starting off on Youtube, this intriguing performer has jumped leaps and bounds in his music career, and is now touring his honed skill and showcasing his captivating sound. 2 Jun // 7pm – 11pm // £15 // Trinity
One of Bristol’s newest venues is delivering a weekly drum & bass night to showcase home grown talent from the heart of Bristol. Powered by an in-house Void Acoustics soundsystem, expect to witness the likes of Redland Tea Party collective, Groundsound, Primitive DJs and more. 5 Jun // 8pm – // Free // Faraway Cocktail Club
Australia’s grunge-pop powerhouse Courtney Barnett will be taking over the stage at O2 Academy this month to showcase her latest single Nameless, Faceless’ amongst classics. Her distinct and powerful performance will capture your heart as she exhibits the breadth to her musical talent. 5 Jun // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50 // O2 Academy
Canadian rockers Born Ruffians’ new album Uncle, Duke & The Chief gives you a taste of old favourites from Buddy Holly, The Everly Brothers and even a hint of pre-psychedelic Beatles. Head to The Exchange this June to hear their new album and a blend of favourite hits. 6 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // £10.75 // The Exchange
This week’s genre colliding Astral Tusk II showcase features Sketch on Glass, Lyrebird & Sublunary and DJ Notsoever. Come on down to The Gallimaufry, grab a drink and sit back and witness these groups freely combine jazz, electronic and afrobeat into a cosmic stew. 7 Jun // 9pm - 1am // Free // The Gallimaufry
Praised by the likes of Huey Morgan and BBC Radio 2, Hackney Colliery Band are a powerful acoustic ensemble who deliver carefully crafted contemporary rock, jazz and soul. Having previously performed at the Brit and Mercury Awards, HCB are no strangers to the stage. Plus, Boca 45 and Mutant Vinyl. 7 Jun // 7.30pm – 12am // £17.50 // The Lanes
HIGHLIGHTS // 23
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9. DA FUCHAMAN AND THE FIRE BLAZE BAND
The multi gender, multiracial Da Fuchaman and the Fire Blaze band bring positive vibes and a conscious message in their unifying sound. Catch them at Mr Wolfs this June, followed by Mr. Fitz on the decks ‘til late. 8 Jun // 7pm - 4am // £3 - £4 // Mr Wolfs
10. IMAGINE THAT PRESENTS
Head on down To The Moon for top quality live music, featuring Jake Morgan & Ben Cooling. Followed by Night Ride DJs spinning the finest in 60s rock n roll and indie records. 9 Jun // 8pm – 12am // Free // To The Moon
11. BABYLON DEAD
Banana Bombs Records presents the most talked about UK boom bap, ragga, hip hop project right now. Prepare for dancehall bass lines and some serious rhythms from Illinformed, coupled with an intense flow from J Man. 9 Jun // 8pm – 2am // £4 // Full Moon & Attic Bar
12. BELLY
Tanya Donelly formed Belly in 1991 with brothers Tom and Chris Gorman and Gail Greenwood. The Grammy nominated alternative rock band announced their return back in 2016 and are now ready to take centre stage at SWX as part of their highly anticipated return tour. 10 Jun // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50 // SWX
13. LAURA VEIRS
With 20 years of songwriting under her belt it’s no wonder Laura Veirs’ always manages to draw in a large crowd for her live shows. Her exquisite folk-pop songs prove the depth of her musical skill and deliver warmth in her sound. 10 Jun // 7.30pm – 11pm // £18.50 // Thekla
14. WAXAHATCHEE + EX-VÖID
The Fleece cannot wait to welcome back American indie artist Waxhatchee to the stage this June. Celebrating the release of her latest album Out in the Storm, Waxhatchee will perform all your favourites from her most autobiographical and honest album to date. Plus, support from Ex- Vöid. 14 Jun // 7.30pm – 11pm // £12.50 // The Fleece
15. AXES + LAST HYENA + ESUANA
Math Rock fans, put this date in your diary because Blowout and M4D SM4SH presents the hypnotic four piece from London, Axes. Great at creating surprising instrumental music, filled with melodic hooks and danceable grooves. Plus, support from Last Hyena and Esuana. 14 Jun // 7pm – 10.30pm // £5 // Mothers’ Ruin
16. ELECTRIC HARMONY PRESENT: THE FIN. + SUPPORT
Indie rock and synth pop group The Fin. are stopping off at Bristol’s Hy-Brasil as part of the UK leg of their current tour, to showcase their treasured sound and top hits, including their latest single Paper Blue. Come and witness the mesmerising melding of genres live. 14 Jun // 8pm – 12am // Free // Hy-Brasil
17. BEAT N PATH PRESENTS: HODGE + EKSISH + SPECIAL GUESTS
The multi genre, collaborative event has a big line up in store for you this month. Featuring some of the finest local talent including Hodge, Eksish and more, this BIMM associated night will remind you why Bristol is the hub of musical creativity. 14 Jun // 10pm – 3am // The Love Inn
18. MATT WOODS
Knoxville based, Americana, country and southern roots singersongwriter Matt Woods will be bringing his songs and guitar for an evening of intimate classic, country music and greasy rock n roll. 14 Jun // 9pm – 12am // Free // The Golden Lion
24 // HIGHLIGHTS
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JUNE
HIGHLIGHTS 19. SLAMBOREE
The electrifying one of a kind ensemble are taking centre stage at The Marble Factory this June for a one of a kind show. Showcasing the multi-talented collective of revolutionary performers that deliver a truly mesmerising immersive stage experience. Plus, The Dutty Moonshine Quartet and their bass driven antics. 15 Jun // 7pm – 10pm // £14.00 // The Marble Factory
20. NORMANTON STREET
Having recently released their EP ‘Long Road’, Bradford’s answer to the ‘Bristol sound’ are making their way to The Canteen to showcase their new material. Mashing nu-soulful songs and compelling deep grooves, this is one not to miss. 15 Jun // 9.30pm – 12.30am // Free // The Canteen
21. DON KIPPER
24. SIMIAH & THE PHANTOM ENSEMBLE
22. DUB FROM ABOVE: SOOM T’S BIRTHDAY BASH
25. NOODS PRESENTS: 30/70 (RHYTHM SECTION)
23. NIGHT BUS PRESENTS: LITTLE BROTHER ELI + WATERCOLOURS
26. GOAT + (JPN) + MAI MAI MAI & THE EVIL USSES
Get a load of ‘traditional music of North-East London’ by checking out Don Kipper. Bound together by friendship and a mutual passion to explore the sounds that surround them, this award-winning ensemble display a sensational style and hypnotic flare. 16 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // Free // The Canteen
Soom T’s Birthday is just around the corner and Dub From Above are celebrating in style. With over 40 artists across three takeovers in three rooms with Too Many Mics, The ASBO Disco and Bristol Underground, Dub From Above are going to make this a birthday celebration to remember. 16 Jun // 10pm – 6am // £16.50 - £27.50 // The Black Swan
This energetic, four-piece from Oxford will be bringing their guitars and beards to Mr Wolf’s this June as part of Night Bus presents. Fully loaded with growling guitars, danceable beats and electro breakdowns. With praise from Classic Rock and BBC Radio 2, there’s a lot to look forward to from this band. 16 Jun // 9pm – 4am // £3 - £4 // Mr Wolf’s
Using his MPC drum machine as his tool to create an eclectic range of waves and sounds, Simiah is one to watch out for. For this month’s show, Simiah has invited two members of his Phantom Ensemble to add a flavour of sax and keys into the mix. 17 Jun // 9pm – 1am // Free // The Gallimaufry
Noods are proud to welcome Melbourne’s neo-soul, broken beat and spiritual jazz collective 30/70 to Bristol, as part of their first European tour. With praise from the likes of Giles Peterson and Q Tip, these are ones to watch out for. Plus, killa jazz locals, Snazzback and Feelgood Experiment. 19 June // 7.30pm – 11.30pm // £8 // The Crofters Rights
The Grey Area are excited to present a feast for the ears. Goat’s intertwining patterns of repetitive rhythms and harmonics will blow you away, along with the ambient sounds from Mai Mai Mai. Plus, hypnotic breakdowns from The Evil Usses and a whole load of bizarre from Sloe Loris. 20 Jun // 7pm – 1am // £10 - £11 // The Crofters Rights
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27. GRAVY TRAIN PRESENTS: LUMER
Frenetic post-punk teeters Lumer will be delivering a force that’s not to be missed at Hy-Brasil this month. Plus, support from Gravy Train DJ’s, bringing you a big dose of psychedelia, no-wave, shoegaze, post-punk and a whole lot more. 21 Jun // 8pm – 12am // Free // Hy-Brasil
28. SEX PISTOLS EXPERIENCE VS LIZZIE & THE BANSHEES
Sex Pistols Experience are on a mission to change the tribute band scene, one chaotic and controversial gig at a time. Having set the bar higher for other tribute bands across the world, you are guaranteed an unforgettable show. Plus, the UK’s premier tribute to Siouxsie and the Banshees. 22 Jun // 7pm – 10.30pm // £12 // The Fleece
29. THE MAN AND THE LAKE
Bristol is the heart of some of the most exciting musical projects, and The Man and The Lake are no exception. Bristol-based Balkan four-piece are great at getting the crowd on their feet and to the dancefloor. 22 Jun // 9pm – 12am // Free // The Golden Lion
30. ETHER SESSIONS #4: SUBSONIC SPECIAL
Ether Sessions #4 takes a dive into the depths of the big blue with the aquatic wonders of Subsonic UK. Expect the usual party vibes with special guests from Subsonic. Swimming towel not required. 23 Jun // 2pm – 6pm // Free // To The Moon
31. ASHESTOANGELS
Ashes to Angels are returning to Bristol this June to showcase their ‘grave movement’ style. Self-described as a band who ‘scares because they care’, this show will be unlike no other and may even leave you shaking in your boots. Head on down to get your emo, horror punk fix. 24 Jun // 6.30pm – 10pm // £8.50 // Exchange
32. BOOTY BASS
No.51’s newest member of the family, Ngaio will be delivering an evening of afrobeats, dancehall, latin and world-fusion as part of her new monthly residency. Make your way to the dancefloor because Booty Bass is here to make you bounce. 26 Jun // 10pm – 2am // Free // No.51 Stokes Croft
33. C.W STONEKING
Neo-blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist is flying in all the way from Australia for a string of shows. Stopping off at Thekla, C.W Stoneking promises to deliver an enticing show of all things blues and country. 27 Jun // 7pm – 10pm // £15 // Thekla
34. EQUNIKNOXX
Forward thinking Jamaican music collective Equniknoxx will be showcasing their bass-lead beats and their dancehall, charged style. Home to Shanique Marie, Bobby Blackbird, Gavsborg, Kemikal Splash & Time Cow. If you fancy a night on the dancefloor, look no further. 29 Jun // 8.30pm – 2am // £4 // Full Moon & Attic Bar
35. PERHAPS CONTRAPTION
Perhaps Contraption are a multi-award winning, progressive brass band from London. Part choir, part chamber orchestra, part avant rock band, they create a truly unique musical experience; melding elements of jazz, punk, art pop and post-minimalism. Grab your tickets to engage in this spectacle for the ears. 29 Jun // 10pm – 1am // £5 // The Old Market Assembly
36. ATA KAK
American musicologist Brian Shimkovitz, AKA Awesome Tapes from Africa came across Ata Kak’s prized cassette tape at a roadside stall in Ghana. Bringing hip hop, electronica, rap-funk, Aka Kak brings to life his distinctive sound in an animated way. 30 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // £17.74 // Fiddlers
26 // COMPETITION
competition
Win 4 x weekend tickets to
Grillstock Festival 2018
Fun Lovin’ Criminals • Black Grapes • Brand New Heavies • The South competition Grillstock Festival is back with another instalment of meat, music and mayhem on Bristol’s Harbourside this July. In an all-out celebration of BBQ, Grillstock’s infamous King of the Grill and Low ’n’ Slow competitions return, as well as the gruelling main stage chilli eating contest for the bravest festival goers.
Paul Box
Prepare for the extra hole in your belt as you sample a hefty selection of BBQ and street food vendors from the South West and beyond, before dancing off some calories to the likes of Fun Lovin’ Criminals,
Black Grapes, Brand New Heavies, The South, Hyponotic Brass Ensemble, The Hackensaw Boys and The Mariachis. We’ve teamed up with Grillstock Festival to offer you the chance to win 4 x Weekend tickets to this year’s event on 30 June & 1 July. For your chance to win head over to nitelifeonline.com/ win/grillstock2018. Winner selected 22 June.
PROFILES // 27
profile - HOMEGROWN
profile - incoming
Kayla Painter
Mikey Snooze
Kayla Painter has been pushing the boundaries of Bristol’s electronic scene since 2012, when she independently released her debut EP Kayla Painter. Combining unusual instrumentals and field recordings, she creates dreamy, multi-layered, left-field electronica. Kayla was selected for this year’s Future Bubblers programme with Gilles Peterson’s Bronswood Recordings, where she is currently receiving mentorship from artist development specialist Mita Dee, who has worked with the likes of Floating Points, CHVCHES, Moby and Gotye. She has also found a mentor in tastemaker and fan Mary Anne Hobbs. Kayla’s latest track Keep Under Wraps – a self-release single due on 20 July – sees Kayla inch slightly toward dancefloor music, although her hunger for experimentation and sonic academia is ever present. Kayla describes the release as an exploration of what it might be like to try and hide something bursting with electricity. Filled with contagious anticipation and heightened energy, this track acknowledges that it is impossible to be contained and kept under wraps.
A high-shine collaboration between Thekla promotions manager Simon Brown and DJ Mikey Snooze, Lycra launches in Bristol this month. After a roaring debut in London and ahead of a string of festival appearances for 2018 including Green Man, Boomtown and Latitude, Lycra will be bringing their outrageous 1980s aerobics dance party to Thekla. Not only will the team be blasting classic 80s bangers, but aerobics instructors will be leading 10 minute dance classes throughout the night to help warm up those groovy limbs – so have your leotards at the ready. You may already recognise Mikey Snooze from Thekla’s weekly Pop Confessional parties, but the London-based DJ also holds down residencies in Camden’s Koko and Soho’s Borderline. He’s played alongside the likes of Jungle, Hot Chip, Metronomy and A. Skillz and is an alumni of most major festivals. Mikey answers our 10 questions before his latest party sets sail this month.
THOSE QUESTIONS...
THOSE QUESTIONS...
Producer
1. What have you learned today? That I can listen to a whole album on my walk to work. 2. Favourite track of all time? So Real – Jeff Buckley. 3. It’s 3am and the party is winding down, what track do you play to get everyone going again? Gold Dust – DJ Fresh, it’s old but it always works. 4. Who are your top three acts right now? Aisha Devi, Jon Hopkins and Four Tet. 5. If you couldn’t work in music, what would you be doing instead? Working with animals. 6. What was the last book you read? Animal: The Autobiography of a Female Body by Sara Pascoe – highly recommend, it’s very funny
DJ
7. Favourite thing on TV? I found Manhunt: Unabomber on Netflix fascinating. I’m about to start the new series of Handmaid’s Tale though…
Upcoming shows: 22 June – Thekla
1. What have you learned today? I learnt that Dolly Parton’s father paid the Doctor who delivered her with a bag of oatmeal. I also learnt she once LOST a Dolly Parton look-a-like competition!
6. What was the last book you read? Stephen King’s IT.
2. Favourite track of all time? Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance with Somebody.
8. Are you afraid of anything? Not stretching down properly – very important!
9. Tell us something people don’t know about you... I regret calling my music project Kayla Painter as it’s my actual name – it’s been impossible to separate music and life stuff, admin, people, etc… Mind you, I have no alternatives.
3. It’s 3am and the party is winding down, what track do you play to get everyone going again? Please see answer to Question 2.
9. Tell us something people don’t know about you... I was once a monster in Doctor Who.
4. Who are your top three acts right now? Madonna, George Michael and Pet Shop Boys.
10. What are you doing tomorrow? Mostly working in the studio. I’ve got a new release out on 20 July but also plenty more stuff in the pipeline for the rest of the year.
5. If you couldn’t work in music, what would you be doing instead? Trying to break the record for World’s Biggest Hair.
10. What are you doing tomorrow? We’re cutting our promotional video with our editor ready to go out this week. We’re also about to announce our next string of dates in Bristol, London and Cardiff and a couple of festivals alongside Green Man and Latitude, so that’s ramping up too. Busy busy!
8. Are you afraid of anything? Yeah! I’m quite often afraid there’s someone lurking in my house when there’s no one in.
kaylapainter.com // soundcloud.com/misskaylapainter // @kaylapaintermusicuk
7. Favourite thing on TV? Stranger Things.
mixcloud.com/astrosnooze // @Lycra80sParty
28 // LOCAL TALENT
DBS MUSIC PRESENTS LOCAL TALENT
BENGAL SOUND
Anyone following Bristol-based producer Bengal Sound most likely shares the opinion that he is the next producer out of Bristol to blow up on the underground. At just 23 years old, Farhad Ahmed AKA Bengal Sound has already released with White Peach, his tracks have been cut to dubplate by the likes of Kahn and Zha, and he’s played alongside Commodo and Bandulu Gang. Working primarily within the worlds of grime and dubstep, with obvious influences from hip hop, garage and R&B among others, everything we’ve heard from him so far has shown serious levels of talent and creativity.
Usually in 140bPM, things come out as singles, but I wanted to do a longform project While he might still be outwardly new to the scene, it comes as no surprise to learn that Farhad has been at the dials since the tender age of thirteen, after his brother’s friend came over with a copy of Sony Acid. He has just released his debut album Culture Clash on an extremely limited run of 100 cassette tapes (with individual download links). The 10-track project explores influences from
LOCAL TALENT // 29
UK dance music and old Bollywood soundtracks, and features artwork from Bristol artist and Bandulu affiliate Joshua Hughes-Games. Pre-orders sold out well before official release and if you didn’t cop a copy, that’s that. The album won’t be released on digital and there won’t be a reissue. Although you can hear album tracks Black Jacket, Black Water and Don’t Go, plus a few more exclusives at nitelifelifeonline.com/noise via his Nitelife NOISE guestmix. The album follows his brilliant four-track Wushu Hand EP on White Peach Records last year, and he’s already got a load more finished material up his sleeve. On Kahn’s request, Farhad played a set at the Bandulu Records takeover at Trinity Centre last month using only his own tracks. Culture Clash is the culmination of his final year project at dBs Music, where he is currently completing an Electronic Music Production degree. After working together previously, White Peach owner Zha offered Farhad the chance to put the album tracks out on White Peach, but via a series of releases.
I feel a piece of music needs to go hand in hand with a physical product ‘Usually in 140bpm, things come out as singles, but I wanted to do a longform project,’ says Farhad. He decided to self-release on cassette, with White Peach stepping in as distributor. Farhad explains how this fruitful relationship with Zha first came about: ‘I spoke to him initially through the Facebook page 4TheWax. He had done a mix for them and I thought “This is the kind of music I’m into. This is what I like doing.” I messaged him on his artist page to ask if I could send him some tunes. I sent him two and he told me he was going to get them cut to dubplate. ‘He told me to get a folder ready for him, which I didn’t really think much of at the time. Then three months later he
messaged me out of nowhere and asked if I had it ready. I sent it over and we started emailing. He asked for my number and gave me a call within a couple of minutes and said “Let’s work on an EP”. ‘I had to be quiet for a good five months about it, which was really hard. It was really successful and I didn’t expect that – it just happened. Being in Bristol, where there’s a big following for White Peach, it did help get me noticed.’ There’s a level of clout that comes by association with White Peach, so passing up the opportunity to release with them again in favour of a self-release suggests that the young producer already has a strong sense of how he wants to push forward with his music. On why he chose cassette tape, obviously there is a cost associated with physical music, but Farhad says he was also drawn to the punk aesthetic of releasing on tape, a medium long-associated with DIY labels and artists. ‘I feel a piece of music needs to go hand in hand with a physical product. In terms of the way that the aesthetics of the tracks are, I feel like it’s perfect for tape. It has a narrative going through each of the tracks and some of the lo-fi Bollywood samples work well on tape.’ While Culture Clash is in some ways a concept album, it doesn’t differ hugely from his other tracks other than to hone in more closely on an idea that already informs his music. While it’s at its best played from start to finish, you can listen to tracks individually, or move between albums tracks and his previous EP comfortably. Being from an Asian background, my family played a lot of South Asian music. Growing up with it, subconsciously it became ingrained in me. And being brought up in the UK with electronic music, I felt like I needed to merge the influences together to create one thing. ‘I’m just doing tape for now because I want to put my focus on the physical copies. But later on, if I do a part two, maybe I will bring the digitals for it…’ The upward trajectory Farhad looks set to be on is a big one,
especially given the fact that his set at the Bandulu Records takeover last month was only his third time playing out as Bengal Sound – his first being a White Peach label night at Cosies late last year. If he’s not yet that well known by audiences, he’s clearly got an early seal of approval from some industry tastemakers that will inevitably have a trickle down effect. ‘The way that the relationship with Bandulu came about was from me sending Kahn tunes regularly and asking for feedback and what he thinks. Every time I would send him something he would just say “Yep, I’m getting this cut. I’m going to play it out.” ‘I went to the Sequences Festival warm up party at Carhartt recently, where it was a surprise lineup. Kahn and Neek came through and he played two of my tracks. Obviously when he’s mixing you can hear them bring the tune in slowly. I was looking at my mates, like “this one’s mine”. When one of my tracks plays I always look at the reaction – that’s what I feed off, seeing what people think – and there was a good reaction from it.’ While he hasn’t currently got any more live shows in the diary, Bengal Sound is definitely a name you’re going to be hearing more of, with a string of releases already in the works. ‘There is a few EPs lined up for this year and next year – I can’t say any more than than that yet, but they’re looking good. They’re with labels and possibly another self-release. There is a project with White Peach soon, which is one thing I can say because I’m already affiliated. But there are a few others…’ In the meantime, you can hear Bengal Sound playing on 10Twenty radio every fourth Wednesday alongside his fellow Panum crew, Fellony and Unperson.
Words: Rachel Morris Photos: Dominika Scheibinger soundcloud.com/bengal_sound
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36 // PREVIEW
PREVIEW
VALIS ABLAZE
Four parts Bristol, one part Manchester, progressive metal band Valis Ablaze was born in 2012 with guitarist Ash Cook and drummer Rich New. Six years and some lineup changes later, the final incarnation, in addition to Ash and Rich, is Tom Moore and George Demner on guitar and bass, with Manchester-based vocalist Phil Owen joining in 2015. The arrival of Phil brought around a big change in sound direction for Valis Ablaze, whose Insularity EP released at the beginning of last year was a big surprise for many – paring down the the heavier, predominantly technical sounds and scream vocals they had previously been known for and giving more reign to the grooves that have always driven their sound from within. The six-track EP was very well received by most, and more importantly, Valis Ablaze are much happier with the music they are making now. Where they had previously been restricted to scream vocals and the style of metal appropriate for that, Phil’s singing capabilities presented a new opportunity that fit with the rest of the group’s waning interest in the relentlessly heavy metal they had been making in their earlier days. Within the year, Valis Ablaze had been signed to Long Branch Records and SikTh ex-frontman Justin Hall had agreed to produce their debut album. Released last April, Boundless charted in the top 10 metal albums on iTunes on day one, where it remained for a week. Both singles they’ve released from the album, Frequency and Paradox, have charted over 13k and 16k views respectively on YouTube, and they’ve just topped 200,000 album streams on Spotify. It’s clear the band have hit their stride, with 13 shows booked this summer, including a co-headline UK tour, a major
soon-to-be-announced support slot in London, and a main stage appearance at UK Tech Fest 2018. We had a chat with guitarist and founding member Ash Cook about the new album and the band’s new direction. With all five members actively writing their songs, Ash explains that the resulting sound is the middle ground between the group’s sometimes conflicting influences and tastes. ‘Musically, half of the band get on quite well and the other half don’t, then there’s Phil the vocalist who doesn’t really mind either way. Tom and George come from the same hometown and grew up listening to the same bands together, so they share a lot of the same tastes and preferences in terms of writing and what we play. Whereas Rich and I are a bit older and prefer more traditional proggy stuff. We really like Dream Theatre and the other two guys detest that band, they’re more into Killswitch Engage and Trivium. ‘It took us about five months to write the album and the majority of the songs were written in the first three months – the remaining two months were basically tweaking and agreeing.’ While some core elements of the original Valis Ablaze sound remain intact, it’s rare to see a band make such a drastic change to their sound between releases. The Insularity EP (and the preceding single release Inertia) presented a complete overhaul of anything they’d put out previously. ‘With the lineup change, we realised that we could just do so much more with someone who could sing. If someone has a limit in terms of what they can do, as a band you are bound to the limits of your members. And when Phil joined and said, “actually I don’t want to be in a heavy band anymore”, we were so impressed with his voice that we scrapped the entire album
we had written and wrote the Insularity EP. It was actually a really difficult thing to write, trying to find the balance of the heaviness we’d all grown to love and enjoy playing with melody for Phil to enjoy. ‘It took a while, but it was good for us. It got me out of my rut as a guitarist in terms of what my default notes to play would be, and I know the same happened for the other guys as well. So it was a welcome challenge and it was well received by most. You do get the odd person saying we should have changed our name and that kind of thing, but the core elements of when we started the band are still there – it’s heavy-based groove music and that’s still present in that EP and in the album.’
we realised that we could do so much more with someone who could sing Having broken out of their previous mould, Valis Ablaze are ready to take their sound to wider audience, beyond heavy metal communities who, whilst being incredibly supportive fans, can also be a little rigid in terms of what they like and don’t like. That’s not to say you can expect a formulaic, pop metal ballad any time soon from the band, who are all incredibly skilled and challenge-driven musicians. Valis Ablaze are simply hoping to offer a more palatable alternative, if you’re not necessarily into heavy metal.
PREVIEW // 37
‘There has been a few songs I’ve heard on the radio recently and knowing some music theory I’ve thought “Wow, that’s actually really clever what’s going on in the background there, that must be really fun and challenging to play”, yet it has mainstream appeal for whatever reason. And I guess this album was the first step towards us having fun playing challenging material, but also stepping away from the heaviness. ‘Before, we’d be on all sorts of bills and playing with much heavier bands than we’re wanting to play with now. Now it’s a case of focusing on playing with alt-rock bands and being the sore thumb, but in a different way than we usually are.’ As with any band that defaults from their usual sound, the public reaction was a little bittersweet for Valis Ablaze – earning them lots of new fans, but also attracting criticism from a few keyboard warriors second-guessing their motives. ‘We’re seeing way more growth and by default, by not having screams and not being relentlessly heavy, we are a welcome alternative for people that want something different. They want to listen to guitar-based music, but they don’t want it to be too much of a chore to listen to. ‘We’ve all taken a step back from the heavy metal bands we used listen to when we were younger and that’s obviously reflected in the playing. The downside of that is that we get compared to a couple of key bands that are also in the same sub genre. ‘Some people can see that we’ve taken influence from them and some people are convinced that we’ve ripped them off. The guitarist of the band in question – TesseracT, who we get compared to quite a bit – he’s listened to the album and he hasn’t drawn any comparisons between their work and our work.’ Aside from the largely positive public reaction, one of the biggest indicators that Valis Ablaze’s new sound direction is working in their favour is their triumphant return to UK Tech Fest in July – this time on the main stage. ‘Last year we played to an almost full room at UK Tech Fest on the second stage and it was definitely one of my favourite shows we’ve ever played. To finally have that new music out and have people singing along. When we played there in 2014, we were a lot heavier and a lot more polarising and there were definitely people who could have taken or left it. Whereas at the end of our set last year, we definitely had
a better reception. And I can only imagine what this year is going to be like after the success of the album. ‘There’s a small online community called UKTM, which stands for UK Tech Metal. There are 5,000 members in the group and I know that a lot of other sub genres of metal – and I only know this from personal experience and also from being that guy – can be quite narrow minded and say “I only listen to deathcore” or “I only listen to this thing”. Whereas UKTM is a bit more open minded because it’s predominantly musicians more than anyone else, so they’re understanding of theory and they’re understanding of the more technical elements of music. It makes them appreciate all kinds of music and that community has really helped us get to where we are in terms of playing around the country and that festival.’
the core elements of when we started the band are still there – it’s heavy-based groove music Although despite this support within the tech community, Valis Ablaze would now very much describe themselves as a progressive metal band – embracing all the challenging and complex elements of tech, but without feeling tied to traditional expectations, allowing themselves to explore those more melodic sounds. ‘Progressive is such a broad term. There are a lot of bands I would say are progressive just because they’re doing something slightly different from the norm. I don’t want to go to a local show and watch five sets of the same types of music. I want to see different things, I want to hear different elements of different genres and people’s own experiences and cultural backgrounds being brought into the music. ‘There are definitely quite a few new bands coming through who are doing that now. Especially in Bristol, despite there only really being two or three venues that local bands can affordably get involved with in terms of playing heavy music. The scene here has been very kind to us and is definitely continuing to grow. In terms of how they see themselves as a progressive band,
Ash explains: ‘This is where I’m a bit worried about blowing my own trumpet! There are two or three songs on the album that don’t particularly have a structure. They start off quieter and as the song goes on, things build up or get heavier – there’s no intro, verse, chorus, verse, middle eight, outro. ‘So one thing to start with is song structures. We didn’t sit down and think “Let’s write a song like this”. It just kind of came to us and we thought it sounded good. Another thing would be the mixture of sounds – the contrast of heavy distorted guitar with clean melodic guitar over the top. Time signature changes, key changes… ‘There are note passages and things that, even now, are quite difficult to play and have pushed me as a musician. I think anyone who is sitting down to learn our music, because we’ve transcribed it all, would agree that there are definitely some unconventional note choices in there that you just wouldn’t hear from a normal metal or metal core band.’ The penultimate show in their co-headline UK tour is at Bristol’s Exchange this July. It will be the first time they’ve played their new material to a home crowd and the show they’re most apprehensive about, Ash explains. ‘We’re all pretty nervous. We purposely held off playing Bristol for a while once we realised that the album was going to come out, to hopefully get as many people down as possible. This material is a bit harder, this show is in front of a lot of friends, family and peers, and genuine fans as well, so it needs to be the tightest one – the best show. ‘Since we’ve been going, we’ve had really supportive family members, friends, employees… I’ve personally missed big events just for gigs, and a couple of years ago that was quite awkward to justify. But now, visibly seeing how well we’re doing and waking up every morning to 10 new subscribers on Spotify, I know it’s kind of sad to think about those numbers, but it’s a justifiable figure that shows we’re growing and everything we’re doing is working and we’re going to achieve what we set out to achieve when we started the band.’
Words: Rachel Morris Photos: Zain Zia 1 July – Valis Ablaze & Unprocessed, The Exchange valisablaze.com
38 // THE INFLUENCERS
THE INFLUENCERS // BEHIND THE SCENES WITH
SIKA STUDIOS SIKA Studios is a network of creatives, built from the underground up. Combining skate and graffiti culture with hip hop, grime and other underground musical genres, SIKA Studios are celebrating their 10th birthday this year.
‘SIKA started because I was looking around me and seeing a lot of talent go to waste. There was and still is a lot of talent in the underground scene, whether that’s music or visual arts such as graffiti; but it was seen as more of a negative thing back then.
As well as putting a spotlight on a number of homegrown artists over the past decade through their live events and SIKA Records label, SIKA Studios have also become renowned for their travelling festival stage – where the team have quite literally created a platform for underground artists.
‘I wanted to flip the whole thing on its head so that people could make a living from what they love doing. That’s when SIKA was born. We sparked a lot of new connections and ideas, in hip hop in particular, and quickly became an important platform within the rebirth of the UK hip hop movement.’
The SIKA Studios stage doubles as a working skate ramp, with skateboarders showing off their skills between (and sometimes during) sets from SIKA records artists and their extended family. Over the coming months they’ll be bringing their stage to Balter Festival and NASS Festival, showcasing a range of underground hip hop, grime, bassline, drum and bass and more in true SIKA style.
Amongst the clothing brand, graffiti and record label, one of SIKA’s most-loved conquests is their festival stages, which are famed for bringing an element of underground UK hip hop to festivals catered to all audiences.
Before they head out on the road, SIKA Studios founder Chris explains how SIKA was born and what’s in store for the rest of the summer:
‘We started putting on the SIKA stages because I felt when I was going to festivals that there was a huge gap in the market for underground hip hop and urban music in general. I was really enjoying the vibes and atmosphere at festivals, but the music wasn’t really doing it for me.
‘We were given the opportunity for our first ever festival stage at Aeon Festival, which is unfortunately not around anymore. They gave us a budget and a tent and we ended up putting on what I now know to be the first UK hip hop stage at a festival. That was probably around nine years ago now.
If it wasn’t fun, none of us would be doing it ‘It’s been a great experience to have been at the forefront of UK hip hop for all those years. But unfortunately, as with a lot of genres of music, it peaked and has now kind of dipped off, but thankfully we have always been quite diverse with the genres we are involved with. As hip hop was starting to level out, grime was really starting to blow up, which is something we have been involved in for a long time too.’ The SIKA family have a lot to look forward to this festival season with NASS and Balter Festival just round the corner. Chris breaks down what we can look forward to at both festival stages this summer: ‘If you’re the type of person who likes to let loose and be as weird as you like and do whatever you want to do, then Balter Festival is the one for you. ‘We have managed to create a semi indoor, semi outdoor area with a small stage – something you don’t really get to see much of at festivals – with a skate ramp. We’ve got a nice range of music including Babylon Dead, Inja, Killaz Amy, Devilman and more. This year, we’ve got quite a lot of drum and bass in between the acts, so it should flow really nicely. ‘In comparison, NASS Festival overall is a more commercial and a little bit more regimented, but our stage is a lot bigger and tucked away. We bring the Electrikal Soundsystem in to provide sound for our stage, who we really enjoy working with.’ ‘Our stage at NASS is a bit more of an open stage where we’ve got our own area and it’s got its own bar – it’s a lot bigger scale. We get to do a lot more of what we want regarding music and the type of acts. We’ve got some of the top names in underground grime, hip hop, bassline and drum and bass performing, including a full SIKA Records showcase, RLD Records showcase and Off Me Nut Records showcase. We’re really pleased with this year’s set up, but that’s all down to the artists being loyal with their pricing – we wouldn’t be able to do it without them.’
we ended up putting on what I now know to be the first UK hip hop stage at a festival Looking back at SIKA’s successes, Chris shares a few highlights since they first began ten years ago: ‘I’ve been able to travel and see the world with Devilman as his agent. One time when we were in Vietnam for a show, I managed to expand the SIKA clothing range by designing and sourcing our now-infamous ‘stash’ boxer shorts and bags, which you can buy online. That was a big highlight for me as I love travelling and working at the same time. ‘Generally though, I just love getting a load of mates and mates of mates together and having a laugh when we run a stage at an event or whatever other randomness we get up to. SIKA studios is an ever evolving family. If it wasn’t fun, none of us would be still doing it. ‘It’s an amazing journey through extreme stress,
THE INFLUENCERS // 39
laughter, silliness and jokes whilst working on the SIKA stage and then finally we get to sit back and admire what we’ve built – at points it’s made me want to cry with happiness! It’s given me and the team so many memories and chances to meet lots of people. It’s been great to watch people progress to do really well in what they love doing.’ Before parting ways, Chris talks about the future of SIKA
and whether or not he’d ever see himself running a bigger stage. ‘I don’t think I’d ever want to progress to a much more commercial stage. It would kind of feel like I was selling out and I want to continue booking the same people I have been working with from the very beginning. It wouldn’t be right otherwise. I’d feel like I’d be saying thank you to everyone who helped create our stage,
but then not booking them anymore. Personally, I want to stay as loyal as possible to the foundations that have helped me and the SIKA team over the years.’
Words: Abi Lewis Tintype photography: Martin Thompson // @thefacecollective sikastudios.co.uk
51 stokes croft
40 // VENUES
51 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3QP | @51StokesCroft | facebook.com/51stokescroft | 01179 148 048 | 51stokescroft.com
Located in the heart of Stokes Croft, No.51 offers cosy dining, late night dancing as well as community minded events like charity fundraisers and quiz nights. Here you can grab a tasty woodfired pizza, sip on a delicious cocktail, listen to great music and chill out with friends in their spacious garden.
BOOTY BASS
No.51’s newest member of the family, Ngaio will be delivering an evening of afrobeats, dancehall, latin and world-fusion as part of her new monthly residency. Booty Bass is here to make you bounce.
26 Jun // 10pm – 2am // Free
CLUB AFRO TROPICANA
Things are about to get scorching at No.51. Join Club Afro Tropicana this June as they bring more sunshine rhythms and hot tunes from around the world. From the afternoon to the early hours.
30 Jun // 3pm – 4am // £0 – £4 after 9pm
02 academy
VENUES // 41
Frogmore Street, Bristol, BS1 5NA | @o2academybris | facebook.com/o2academybristol | 0905 5020 3999 | o2academybristol.co.uk
The o2 Academy is one of Bristol’s busiest music venues playing host to major touring acts as well as up and coming artists. They’ve established themselves as one of the best venues to catch your favourite bands in the Southwest, while also being home to Ramshackle - Bristol’s Notorious Weekly Rave: A fine selection of all thats good in music mixed by Patrick Nazemi, Chezney & Guests.
BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE
facebook.com/o2academybristol twitter.com/o2academybris instagram.com/o2academybris youtube.com/o2academytv
Broken Social Scene are returning to the UK this year to perform tracks from their highly anticipated first album in seven years, Hug of Thunder. Join the much-loved Canadian collective this June at Bristol’s O2 Academy.
1 Jun // 6.30pm – 10pm // £22.50 Fri 1st Jun
Sun 23rd Sep
Broken Social Scene Jose Gonzalez & The String Theory Tue 5th Jun Courtney Barnett Sat 29th Sep • SOLD OUT Halestorm Sun 17th Jun D’Angelo Mon 1st Oct The Magic Gang Tue 10th Jul • SOLD OUT The Breeders Tue 2nd Oct Wed 11th Jul Glenn Hughes The White Buffalo performs classic Deep Purple “Live” Wed 18th Jul Steve Earle Fri 5th Oct • SOLD OUT Jorja Smith Tue 24th Jul Goo Goo Dolls Sun 14th Oct Sat 28th Jul Tom Grennan David Rodigan Tue 16th Oct Mon 20th Aug John Butler Trio Skid Row + Toseland Fri 19th Oct Mon 27th Aug Elvana: The Used Elvis Fronted Nirvana Sun 2nd Sep
Oh Sees Fri 7th Sep
Guns 2 Roses Fri 14th Sep
Xavier Rudd Fri 21st Sep
The Smyths
Thu 25th Oct
Darius Rucker Sat 27th Oct
Flatbush Zombies Tue 30th Oct
The Feeling - Twelve Years and Home Tour
Mon 5th Nov
Leon Bridges Thu 8th Nov
The Decemberists Fri 9th Nov
MC50 Sat 10th Nov
Killing Joke Sun 11th Nov
Blackberry Smoke Sat 17th Nov • SOLD OUT Sun 18th Nov
The Cat Empire Thur 29th Nov
Shaun Ryder’s Black Grape Fri 30th Nov
Cast - The Greatest Hits Tour Sat 1st Dec
Heaven 17 - 35th Anniversary of The Luxury Gap Tue 18th Dec
Clutch Wed 19th Dec
Bjorn Again
O2 Academy Bristol Frogmore Street, Bristol BS1 5NA • Doors 7pm unless stated
ticketmaster.co.uk
Venue box office opening hours: Mon - Sat 12pm - 4pm
ticketmaster.co.uk • seetickets.com • gigantic.com
o2academybristol.co.uk
COURTNEY BARNETT
June • 2018
Australia’s grunge-pop powerhouse Courtney Barnett will be taking over the stage at O2 Academy this month to showcase her latest single Nameless, Faceless’ amongst classics.
5 Jun // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50
the canteen
42 // VENUES
Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY | Twitter – @IntheCanteen | facebook.com/thecanteenbristol | 0117 923 2017 | canteenbristol.co.uk
The Canteen emerged out of the creative inspiration and collective efforts of a bunch of Stokes Croft and Bristol brilliants. With free live music every night, expect gentler tones from Sunday – Wednesday spanning folk, jazz and acapella ensembles, then Thursday – Saturday sees things ramp up from 10pm, when the tables are cleared for the unavoidable rip-roaring dancing times.
NORMANTON STREET
Having recently released their EP ‘Long Road’, Bradford’s answer to the ‘Bristol sound’ are making their way to The Canteen to showcase their new material. Mashing nu-soulful songs and grooves, this is one not to miss.
15 Jun // 9.30pm – 12.30am // Free
Fri 8TH Snazzback Buskin on Bristol’s streets with their take on killa jazz, Snazzback have built a reputation for high-energy street parties.
MON 11th
DeCyphers Hip
Hop Session
MCs Goose & Social Conscience with Dorian Childs-Prophet (keys), Chris Jones (bass) and James Vine (drums) welcomes Bristol rappers for freestyle hip-hop.
Fri 15th Normanton Street Fresher than fresh trio with Brighton hipness and a surprisingly ‘Bristol’ sound, mashing nu-soulful songs to compelling deep grooves and clever jazz infusions.
WED 27th Thurs 21st Ibou Tall We are Leif
With their next album release just around the corner, fresh Bristol nu-jazz quartet features the enchanting Gretchen Parlato-esque voice of Lousie Victoria.
Though dazzlingly impressive Senegalese jazz pianist Ibou Tall starts from the classic sounds of piano standards there’s no denying his African influences. Whenever he plays he brings a rich and rhythmic Afro-jazz fusion to original material and well-known tunes alike.
canteenbristol.co.uk * The Canteen, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY
DON KIPPER
Bound together by friendship and a mutual passion to explore the sounds that surround them, this award-winning ensemble display |a sensational style and hypnotic flare.
16 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // Free
Collston hall Presents
VENUES // 43
Colston Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR | @Colston_Hall | facebook.com/ColstonHall | 0117 203 4040 | colstonhall.org
While Colston Hall undergoes a major redevelopment, Colston Hall Presents sees Bristol’s largest concert venue taking flight – loudly and proudly presenting great live music at independent music venues across Bristol. From the best emerging talent to international superstars, you can count on Colston Hall Presents to keep providing Bristol with eclectic and quality shows all year round.
BORN RUFFIANS
Head to The Exchange this June to hear material from Born Ruffians’ new album Uncle, Duke & The Chief and a blend of some of their favourite hits from the past decade.
6 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // £10.75 // The Exchange
book
0117 203 4040 colstonhall.org
P
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Colston Hall loudly and proudly presents great shows in venues across the city Tue 5 Jun
Wed 11 Jul
Fri 20 Jul
Brennen Leigh & Noel McKay
The White Buffalo + Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real
Jimmy Cliff + Grandmaster Flash + Trojan Soundsystem (feat. KIOKO)
O2 Academy Bristol
Lloyds Amphitheatre
The Wardrobe Theatre
Wed 6 Jun
Born Ruffians The Exchange
Fri 13 Jul
Sat 21 Jul
Sun 17 Jun
Josh Rouse
Jess & The Bandits
An Evening with Kristin Hersh
The Redgrave Theatre
The Wardrobe Theatre
Mon 16 Jul
Sun 22 Jul
Quantic Live
Emily Barker, Holly Macve & Jade Bird
The Redgrave Theatre
Fri 29 Jun
The East Pointers The Folk House
Sat 30 Jun
Trinity Centre
Wed 18 Jul
St George’s Bristol
Sun 22 Jul
Steve Earle & The Dukes
The Grahams
O2 Academy Bristol
The Wardrobe Theatre
Fiddlers
Wed 18 Jul
Mon 23 Jul
Tue 10 Jul – Sun 5 Aug
Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys
The Redgrave Theatre
Ata Kak
River Town: Bristol’s Americana Festival Multiple Bristol venues
Tue 10 Jul
The Harpoonist & The Axe Murderer
Loco Klub
Thu 19 Jul
The Barr Brothers Thekla
Kelly Willis Mon 23 Jul
Sam Palladio St George’s Bristol
Wed 25 Jul
Graham Nash
The Louisiana
St George’s Bristol
ATA KAK
Awesome Tapes from Africa came across Ata Kak’s prized cassette tape at a roadside stall in Ghana. Aka Kak will be delivering his blend of hip hop, electronic, rap-funk to Fiddlers this June.
30 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // £17.74 // Fiddlers
the crofters XX rights
44 // VENUES
117-119 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RW | @Crofters_Rights | Facebook.com/croftersrights | 0117 2310079 | croftersrights.co.uk
Situated in the heart of Stokes Croft, The Crofters Rights has an ever changing list of 17 keg and cask, draught beers and ciders. Ray’s Neapolitanstyle pizzas are served every day and the back room hosts everything from punk gigs to storytelling, comedy to experimental noise.
THE GREY AREA PRESENTS: GOAT (JPN), MAI MAI MAI & THE EVIL USSES Goat’s intertwining patterns of rhythms and harmonics will blow you away, along with performances from Mai Mai Mai, The Evil Usses and Sloe Loris.
20 Jun // 7pm – 1am // £10 – £12
NOODS PRESENTS: 30/70 (RHYTHM SECTION)
Noods are proud to welcome Melbourne’s 30/70 to Bristol. With praise from the likes of Giles Peterson and Q Tip, these are ones to watch out for. Plus, killa jazz locals, Snazzback and Feelgood Experiment.
19 Jun // 7.30pm – 11.30pm // £6 – £8
exchange XX
VENUES // 45
72 - 73 Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0EJ | @exchangebristol | facebook.com/exchangebristol | 0117 930 4538 | exchangebristol.com
Exchange plays host to both gigs most nights of the week with Club Nights most weekends. Having opened in September 2012, Exchange has already hosted performances from a varied array of internally revered artists including The 1975, Four Tet, (the) Melvins, Jungle, Diplo, Haim and Sick Of It All to name but a few.
ASHESTOANGELS
Ashestoangels are returning to Bristol this June to showcase their ‘grave movement’ sound. Self-described as a band who ‘scares because they care’, this show will leave you shaking in your boots.
24 Jun // 6.30pm – 10pm // £8.50
MODERN LIFE IS WAR
DeadPunk promotions welcome all the way from Iowa, USA – Modern Life Is War. Armed with heavy riffs and thumping drums, this melodic hardcore and punk meld will get your blood pumping.
27 Jun // 7.30pm – 11pm // £15
the fleece
46 // VENUES
12 St. Thomas Street, Bristol, BS1 6JJ | @FleeceBristol | facebook.com/fleecebristol | 0117 945 0996 | thefleece.co.uk
The legendary live music venue has previously hosted the likes of Oasis, The Strokes, Goldfrapp and Bloc Party. Live music 7 nights a week and massive club nights like Propaganda, The Fleece is a must for music lovers and students. The in-house promotions team are also responsible for promoting many gigs across the city in other venues, so follow them all on Twitter and Facebook to receive updates on their upcoming gigs.
WAXAHATCHEE + EX-VÖID
Celebrating the release of her latest album Out in the Storm, Waxhatchee will perform all your favourites from her most autobiographical album to date at The Fleece this June. Plus, support from Ex- Vöid.
14 Jun // 7.30pm – 11pm // £12.50
SEX PISTOLS EXPERIENCE VS LIZZIE & THE BANSHEES Sex Pistols Experience are on a mission to change the tribute band scene, one chaotic and controversial gig at a time. Plus, the UK’s premier tribute to Siouxsie and the Banshees.
22 Jun // 7pm – 10.30pm // £12
THE FULL MOON / ATTIC BAR
VENUES // 47
1 North Street, Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3PR | Twitter - Coming soon | facebook.com/pages/The-Full-Moon-and-Attic-Bar | 01179 245 007 | fmbristol.co.uk
The Full Moon pub & Attic bar, with its Moonshine bar and Shisha bar are all the on the same grounds. This really is a hub for all nightime activities from events, parties, drink and food. To add to this there is also a backpackers hotel which adds an international vibe to a great night out. What more could you ask for?
BABYLON DEAD
VP PRODUCTIONS PRESENT
Banana Bombs Records presents the most talked about UK boom bap, ragga, hip hop project right now. Prepare for dancehall bass lines and some serious rhythms from Illinformed, coupled with an intense flow from J Man.
9 Jun // 8pm – 2am // £4
2018
DESIGN: INKIE
EQUNIKNOXX
Forward thinking Jamaican music collective Equniknoxx will be showcasing their bass-lead beats and their dancehall, charged style. If you fancy a night on the dancefloor, look no further.
29 Jun // 8.30pm – 2am // £4
the gallimaufry
48 // VENUES
26-28 The Promenade, Gloucester Road, BS7 8AL | @thegallibristol | facebook.com/TheGallimaufryBristol | 01179 42 7 319 | thegallimaufry.co.uk
An independent bar, restaurant and music venue on the Gloucester Rd. A relaxed coffee shop vibe in the day, ‘The Galli’ serves food and drinks all day with live music and DJs 7 nights a week (always free entry). Working with local suppliers, artists & artisans wherever possible. Check www. thegallimaufry.co.uk for up-todate info on menus and events.
ASTRAL TUSK II
This week’s genre colliding Astral Tusk showcase features Sketch on Glass, Lyrebird & Sublunary and DJ Notsoever. Come on down to The Gallimaufry and witness these groups freely combine jazz, electronic and afrobeat.
June
Monday
Tuesday
Open Mic
7 Jun // 9pm - 1am // Free
Hosted by Mike Dennis
Rocksteady classi cs, reworks and original tunes
k
aufry.co.u
Wednesday
thegallim
Waldo’s Gift
5th Lewis Creave n’s Blues feat. Jausme Dhar ma 12th Flamenco Lo co + Omer Makessa 19th From the Fo rest presents HexCut + Mad B. Will 26th The Melloton es
ove & Electronica
Hip-hop, Math, Jazz, Gro
6th Waldo’s Gift Trio t The Machine 13th Reworks: Rage Agains d Paying tribute to the ban
7th (1am) Astral Tu sk II Sketch on Glass, Lyrebird & Sublunary + DJ Notsoever
20th TBC Yarborough) 27th Feat. 3dYwK (aka Ric mn and Delta Autu Drumming powerhouse of live production Antelope brings his incredible to collab with the trio
Friday
f the Sun Childrenulowo rks Hosted by So
os 1st Jacob Am uency) an (Strange Freq m le 8th Dan Co ) ice Ju e Th p sy (Si 15th Chickpea 22nd RXTN Parents Rude to Your 29th Midas &
Sunday
ack Forth & Bdly Hosted by Ma
Thursday
14th Snazzback OST:
Human Traffic
21st Hippo + supp ort 28th Snazzback
Full band show
Saturday
Satta Lite s
Whitey’s on
th
Withdrawn e moon , play beats, VMO$ + guests bumps & bass 2nd Boofy (Sector 7) 9th Neek (Young Ec ho) 16th Sun un 23rd D.Ham (Noods) 30th Anin a
10th & 24th ls covers & origina Hip-Hop jam, rs 3rd Soul Strutte semble e Phantom En Th & h ia 17th Sim
(Happy Sk ull)
SIMIAH & THE PHANTOM ENSEMBLE
Using his MPC as his tool to create his sounds, Simiah is one to watch out for. This month, Simiah has invited Phantom Ensemble to add a flavour of sax and keys into the mix.
17 Jun // 9pm – 1am // Free
the golden lion
VENUES // 49
244 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8NZ | @goldenlionbriz | facebook.com/goldenlionbristol | 0117 924 6449 | goldenlionbristol.co.uk
The Golden Lion is a renowned Bristol Music venue offering live music on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday Afternoon. A surprise mix bag encompassing the whole music spectrum. Keep up to date on their social media pages for full listings and details. Bar open ‘til 1am Friday and Saturday, and midnight Sunday to Thursday.
GOLDEN LION
MATT WOODS
Knoxville based, Americana, country and southern roots singersongwriter Matt Woods will be bringing his songs and guitar for an evening of intimate classic, country music and greasy rock n roll.
14 Jun // 9pm – 12am // Free
JUNE 2018
BIG FAT MOSTLY MUSIC QUIZ - MONDAY @ 9pm OPEN MIC NIGHT - WEDS @ 8pm FRI SAT
1st 2nd
UNKNOWN ERA Soul Ska Gypsy Funk Punk Dub £2 LEWIS CLARK & THE ESSENTIALS Folk Soul Blues
THU FRI SAT
7th 8th 9th
LATIN DESCARGA Latino Live Jam Night THE HOUNDINIS Brass Heavy Ska & Rocksteady RUZZ GUITAR’S BLUES REVUE Blues Rock n Roll
THU FRI SAT
14th MATT WOODS (Knoxville,TN) Country & Southern Roots 15th CONTRABAND BREAKS ENSEMBLE Live Hip Hop 16th SOUL INGREDIENTS STAX Style Soul & Blues
THU FRI SAT
21st GROOVE RIFT LIVE Hip Hop Jam - Get Involved! 22nd THE MAN & THE LAKE Gypsy Jazz & Balkan Folk 23rd SOME DOGS Punch Drunk Country Punk Classics
THU FRI SAT
28th PIGSTY HILL BLUES CLUB Open Blues Jam 29th MOHAWKESTRA Break Heavy Funk - 60’s Style 30th BILLY LEE & THE SWAMP CRITTERS (USA) Cajun Zydeco
FREE ENTRY UNLESS STATED - PLEASE DONATE TO THE HAT THE MAN AND THE LAKE
Bristol is the heart of some of the most exciting musical projects, and The Man and The Lake are no exception. Bristol-based Balkan four-piece are great at getting the crowd on their feet and to the dancefloor.
22 Jun // 9pm – 12am // Free
Hy-Brasil XX
50 // VENUES
7-9 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1RU | @hybrasilmusicclub | facebook.com/HyBrasilMusicClub | 0117 930 4370 | hybrasilmusicclub.com
Named after a mythical island off the coast of Ireland, Hy-Brasil is a late night music venue located in the heart of Bristol. Join them for 2-4-1 burgers on Tuesdays, awesome drink deals and an array of live and electronic events throughout the week.
ELECTRIC HARMONY PRESENTS: THE FIN. + SUPPORT Indie rock and synth pop trio The Fin. are stopping off at Bristol’s Hy-Brasil as part of their current tour, to showcase their treasured sound and top hits, including their latest single Paper Blue.
14 Jun // 8pm – 12am // Free
GRAVY TRAIN PRESENTS: LUMER
Frenetic post-punk teeters Lumer will be delivering a force that’s not to be missed at Hy-Brasil this month. Plus, support from Gravy Train DJ’s, bringing you a big dose of psychedelia, shoegaze and more.
21 Jun // 8pm – 12am // Free
the lanes
VENUES // 51
22 Nelson Street, Bristol, BS1 2LE | @thelanesbristol | facebook.com/lanes.bristol | 01173 251 979 | thelanesbristol.co.uk
Rapidly establishing itself amongst the ranks of city’s most respected music venues. As well as playing host to both international and local live music and clubnights, The Lanes also offers round the clock bowling, an Italian style pizzeria, karaoke, a vintage shop and even a bed for the night. All in a genuinely laid back atmosphere.
HACKNEY COLLIERY BAND + BOCA 45 + MUTANT VINYL Praised by the likes of Huey Morgan and BBC Radio 2, Hackney Colliery Band are a powerful acoustic ensemble who deliver carefully crafted contemporary rock, jazz and soul. Plus, Boca 45 and Mutant Vinyl.
7 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // £17.50
DEPARTMENT S CLUB NIGHT: THE BIG IDEA
Bristol’s legendary club night with resident DJ John The Mod are delighted to welcome French psych band The Big Idea to The Lanes this month. Plus, the usual eclectic mix of garage beats and northern soul.
16 Jun // 9pm – 3am // £3 – £8.50
mothers’ XX ruin
52 // VENUES
7-9 St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1UE | @TheMothersRuin | facebook.com/The-Mothers-Ruin | 07546 082 009 | mothersruinbristol.co.uk
Bright Red, behind the market on St Nicks street, a three floor mad funhouse that specialises in super sweaty aural delights of Rock n Roll, Pop and Disco. The Mothers’ Ruin pride themselves on being Free to enter most nights of the week, without compromising on entertainment. Upstairs or downstairs you won’t be going anywhere quite like here!
AXES + LAST HYENA + ESUANA
Math Rock fans, put this date in your diary because Blowout and M4D SM4SH presents the hypnotic four piece from London, Axes. Great at creating surprising instrumental music, filled with melodic hooks and danceable grooves. Plus, support from Last Hyena and Esuana.
14 Jun // 7pm – 10.30pm // £5
TWIN ARROW + THE PROXY YOUTH + BLOODRAG Want to tear up your Friday night and fill it with anarchic indignation and ruination? Presenting a triple packed line up, featuring synth infused Twin Arrow, The Proxy Youth and alternative rock band Bloodrag.
29 Jun // 8pm – 11pm // £4
mr wolfs XX
VENUES // 53
32 St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1TG | @MrWolfsBristol | facebook.com/MrWolfs | 0117 923 2565 | mrwolfs.com
If your looking for a live music and a late night party then look no further than Mr Wolf’s. Open 7 day’s a week It’s the place you’ll get the opportunity to see up and coming bands, to bust some moves on the dance floor, watch talented artists paint live, hear some quality musicians come together and jam your heart out.
DA FUCHAMAN AND THE FIRE BLAZE BAND
The multi gender, multiracial Da Fuchaman and the Fire Blaze band bring positive vibes and a conscious message in their unifying sound. Catch them at Mr Wolfs this June, followed by Mr. Fitz on the decks.
8 Jun // 9pm - 4am // £3 – £4
MOMZ SPAGHETTI
Get ready for the launch of Bristol’s freshest hip hop open mic cypher, offering the sickest beats and slickest rhymes. If you fancy a go on the mic, be sure to get down early.
28 Jun // 9pm – 3am // £3
the Old Market XX Assembly
54 // VENUES
25 West Street, Old Market Bristol | @oldmarketassembly | facebook.com/oldmarketassembly | 0117 373 8199 | oldmarketassembly.co.uk
The Old Market Assembly is a completely independent restaurant and arts venue situated in the heart of one of Bristol’s most up-andcoming nightlife hubs. Hosting everything from local bands to wild parties with touring artists. The Old Market Assembly perfectly combines locally sourced affordable food and hospitality with a wide array of live music and club nights.
THE CARNY VILLAINS
Six-piece Balkan-style folk band The Carnvy Villains are bringing their riotous energy and stomping swing to the Old Market Assembly stage this June. Prepare for a full-blown stomping punk-rock marvel, blending animated theatrics and ska.
22 Jun // 10pm – 1am // £10
Sat 2nd June
HALLOUMINATI
£7 (+bf) from headfirst Hallouminati will throw their arm over your shoulder, hand you an Ouzo, and have the whole club throwing their limbs all over before you can shout “Opa!”
.
Friday 7th June
Fri 22nd June
Carny villains
£10 (+bf) from headfirst THE CARNY VILLAINS, are a six piece theatrical band from Bristol, known for their raucous blend of stomping swing, ska and Balkan-style folk played with the riotous energy of punk rock. Their enigmatic and animated live shows remain unrivalled for their mix of theatre, humour energy and showmanship!
.
IDEAL WORLD 004 W/CRAIGIE KNOWES
£5(+bf) from headfirst Expect a mixed bag of electro, techno, house, jungle and who knows what else. IW resident Duke will set the tone be going b2b with himself for an extended warm up set.
.
Sat 16th June
Bad Reputation with Gay Girl
Friday 29th June
Perhaps Contraption
£5 (+bf) from headfirst Whether leading jubilant parades, fully amplified stage shows, or pop up street performances, Perhaps Contraption create an unforgettable sonic spectacle.
£3 donation entry Gaygirl are a South London quartet making dark, melodic pop, joining us for what is bound to be an amazing set. Followed by: Bad Reputation. DJ’s SPICYIVY & DEE2 are back again with our brand new club night dedicated to playing multi genre spanning, female fronted music ALL NIGHT LONG! The Old Market Assembly, 25 West Street, Old Market, BS2 0DF bookings@oldmarketassembly.co.uk ; 0117 373 8199
PERHAPS CONTRAPTION
Perhaps Contraption create a truly unique musical experience; melding elements of jazz, punk, art pop and post-minimalism into a part choir, part orchestra, rock band. Grab your tickets to engage in this spectacle for the ears.
29 Jun // 10pm – 1am // £5
SWX
VENUES // 55
15 Nelson Street, Bristol, BS1 2JY | @swxbristol | facebook.com/swxbristol | 0117 945 0325 | swxbristol.com
SWX is a live music venue and event space in Bristol city centre. Equipped with a state of the art sound & lighting system, they host some of the biggest gigs the city has to offer. It’s also home to two of Bristols most loved Club Nights; Far Fetched every Friday and CODEC every Saturday night. Head to SWXBristol.com for their latest listings.
BELLY
This Grammy nominated alternative rock band announced their return back in 2016. Now, they are ready to take centre stage at SWX this June, as part of their highly anticipated return tour.
10 Jun // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50
BRISTOL PSYCH FEST
Stolen Body records present the fifth year of their independent festival, Bristol Psych Fest. Playing across three venues, expect the likes of Night Beats, The Wytches, Wolf People, Cosmic Dead and many more.
7 Jul // 2pm – 1am // £25 – £30
thekla XX
56 // VENUES
The Grove, Bristol, BS1 4RB | @theklabristol | facebook.com/theklabristol | 0117 929 3301 | theklabristol.co.uk
Bristol’s only music venue and club on a boat! From live toe-tapping Americana to the dirtiest Dubstep this side of London and everything in between, the team have all your musical needs covered. Thekla play host to the cream of the city’s weekly club nights as well as national and international touring live acts every week. Welcome aboard!
LAURA VEIRS
With 20 years of songwriting under her belt, it’s no wonder Laura Veirs’ always attracts a large crowd for her live shows, with her exquisite folk-pop songs that prove the depth of her musical skill.
THEKLA
LIVE LISTINGS The Grove East Mud Dock Bristol BS1 4RB theklabristol.co.uk | thekla.club F L theklabristol | I X theklabris
10 Jun // 7.30pm – 11pm // £18.50
alttickets.com • gigantic.com • bristolticketshop.co.uk
FRIDAY 17TH AUGUST
SATURDAY 2ND JUNE
RISING APPALACHIA
FANTASTIC NEGRITO
WEDNESDAY 22ND AUGUST
SUNDAY 10TH JUNE
THE REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND
LAURA VEIRS
+ AMAROUN
SUNDAY 24TH JUNE
RICHIE KOTZEN
MONDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER
IMARHAN
WEDNESDAY 27TH JUNE
CW STONEKING
FRIDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER
WEDNESDAY 4TH JULY
ODDISEE & MOONCHILD SATURDAY 7TH JULY
START TO END PERFORM JEFF BUCKLEY: GRACE
THE REZILLOS
CATHERINE MCGRATH MONDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER
THE NIGHT CAFE
+ CHAPPAQUA WRESTLING + PLAZA
MONDAY 9TH JULY
HANS CHEW
+ DEPARTMENT S
MONDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER
+ AGS CONOLLY
THURSDAY 12TH JULY
TUESDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER
SPRING KING
LUCKY CHOPS
THURSDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER
TELEMAN
SUNDAY 15TH JULY
GINGER WILDHEART THURSDAY 19TH JULY
THE BARR BROTHERS
SATURDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER
DEFINITELY OASIS THURSDAY 4TH OCTOBER
MONDAY 6TH AUGUST
OKKERVIL RIVER
TUESDAY 7TH AUGUST
HUNTER & THE BEAR
DEERHOOF
SUNDAY 8TH OCTOBER
DARLINGSIDE
TUESDAY 9TH OCTOBER
BOY AZOOGA
SATURDAY 11TH AUGUST
DAS EFX
WEDNESDAY 10TH OCTOBER
POETS OF THE FALL
MONDAY 13TH AUGUST
SLUM VILLAGE
FRIDAY 12TH OCTOBER
GWENNO
C.W STONEKING
+ ADWAITH
Neo-blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist is flying in all the way from Australia for a string of shows. Stopping off at Thekla, C.W Stoneking promises to deliver an enticing show of all things blues and country.
27 Jun // 7pm – 10pm // £15
to the XXmoon
VENUES // 57
27-29 Midland Road, Old Market, St Philips, Bristol BS2 0JT | @tothemoonbris | facebook.com/pg/tothemoonbristol | 07845 700194 | tothemoon.cc
A superb little venue off the beaten track of Old Market’s main streets, To The Moon is a bar-comeboutique and vintage shop, serving up awesome cocktails, local beers and Pieminister pies, with a great spirit collection – particularly when it comes to rum, with over 20 top-notch rums to try. To The Moon also puts on a growing range of club nights and gigs and is currently on the lookout for more DJs and promoters to get involved.
IMAGINE THAT PRESENTS
Head on down To The Moon for top quality live music, featuring Jake Morgan & Ben Cooling. Followed by Night Ride DJs spinning the finest in 60s rock n roll and indie records.
9 Jun // 8pm – 12am // Free
ETHER SESSIONS #4 SUBSONIC SPECIAL
ETHER SESSIONS #4 takes a dive into the depths of the big blue with the aquatic wonders of Subsonic UK. Expect the usual party vibes with special guests from Subsonic. Swimming towel not required.
23 Jun // 2pm – 6pm // Free
trinity XX
58 // VENUES
The Trinity Centre, Trinity Road, Bristol, BS2 0NW | @trinitybristol | facebook.com/trinitybristol | 0117 935 1200 | 3ca.org.uk
One of the few truly independent venues with performances from the likes of Gorillaz, Daniel Johnston, Roni Size and Animal Collective as well as a venue for great club nights like Teachings in Dub and now Bump Rollerdisco. Famous for hosting some legendary band names such as U2, Massive Attack, Portishead, Public Enemy and The Specials. Trinity can rightly claim to be the birthplace of the Bristol sound.
TEACHINGS IN DUB: KING SHILOH SOUNDSYSTEM Get ready for Bristol’s No1 reggae and dub night. This month, Teachings In Dub present their last session before the summer break, with help from special guests all the way from Amsterdam, King Shiloh Soundsystem.
8 Jun // 10pm – 5am // £8 – £14.50
RUFFNECK TING Y25
Ruffneck Ting returns to Trinity to deliver another night of rumbling jungle and drum & bass. Featuring Micky Finn, Ray Keith, Aries, Dazee, Jinx and many more.
9 Jun // 11pm – 5am // £16.50
www.facebook.com/ shotgunbarbers
1a Pitville Place, Cotham Hill Clifton, Bristol, BS6 6JZ
shotgunbarbers.co.uk
20 Bond Street Bristol. BS13LU
www.instagram.com/ shotgunbarbers
- OPPOSITE THE BEARPIT -
For student discounts and more visit www.shotgunbarbers.co.uk or call 0117 973 1130
BRISTOL’S BIGGEST AND BEST INDIE A N D A LT E R N AT I V E C L U B N I G H T EVERY THURSDAY AT THEKLA BRISTOL
2 FOR 1 DRINKS DEALS ALL NIGHT ¬ ȝ ŧ pressurebristol • www.thekla.club • www.pressureclub.co.uk Please drink responsibly
21|07|18 AVON STREET — BRISTOL AREA 1
AREA 2
AREA 3
CRITICAL
THE BLAST
DEEP MEDI X BANDULU
NOISIA (DJ SET) HAZARD MEFJUS IVY LAB KASRA SAM BINGA HALOGENIX FOREIGN CONCEPT B2B QZB GQ 2SHY CHUNKY MANTMAST MAKSIM CARASEL
MIST REJJIE SNOW HOLY GOOF CONDUCTA & COCO CHIMPO MINA X BRYTE LUCY JAYDROP K STYLZ FIRE MAN SAM TS2W KOAST SPECIAL GUESTS: PROBLEM CENTRAL
MALA KAHN & NEEK SIR SPYRO COMMODO & ROCKS FOE DUBKASM (LIVE) EGOLESS (LIVE) HI5GHOST & BOOFY COMPA MUNGO’S HiFI (DJ SET) KILLA P IRAH SUN OF SELAH RIDER SHAFIQUE
SOUNDSYSTEM
SOUNDSYSTEM
SOUNDSYSTEM
TICKETS & INFO: WWW.SEQUENCES.CO.UK @SEQUENCESUK