Nitelife January 2019 by NITELIFE

COVER SHOT: DOMINIKA SCHEIBINGER

INFLUENTIAL VENUES // LIVE MUSIC AND EVENTS // MONTHLY GUIDE

L JANUARY - 2019

11 – 14 JULY 2019 | SHEPTON MALLET, NR. BRISTOL

A FOUR DAY FESTIVAL OF MUSIC, STREET ART, SKATE + BMX

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

GIGGS RUDIMENTAL LOYLE CARNER

02.02.19 05.02.19 07.02.19 07.02.19 15.02.19 17.02.19 0 7.03.19 10.03.19 01.05.19 14.05.19

THE BEST IN JAZZ, ELECTRONICA, HIPHOP AND BEYOND

TECH N9NE A TRIBE CALLED RED SLUM VILLAGE X ABSTRACT ORCHESTRA

BROKEN BRASS ENSEMBLE KELVYN COLT HOT 8 BRASS BAND RODNEY P, BLAK TWANG, TY MEUTE NUBYA GARCIA KRSONE

TRINITY THE FLEECE TRINITY

THEKLA ROUGH TRADE MARBLE FACTORY THE FLEECE SWX FIDDLERS TRINITY

BRISTOL

OPENING TIMES MON - FRI 12PM - 7PM SAT 12PM - 5PM SUN CLOSED

233a CHELTENHAM RD, BRISTOL BS6 5QP BARBERS

by phone 01179 095438 or via facebook

JACOBSBARBERRISTA

VINTAGE CLOTHING

COFFEE

40 Park Street Bristol, BS1 5JG

@ JACOBSBARBER_RISTAS_

HIGHLIGHTS

best events this month 18-21

COMPETITION

Bam!Bam!Bam! tickets all year 22

PROFILES

DLR 23 gangstagrass 23

LOCAL TALENT

poisonous birds 24-25

THE INFLUENCERS lizzy ellis 28-29

PREVIEW

January

holy goof 30-31

FEATURED VENUES

51 Stokes Croft 32 O2 Academy 33 the Canteen 34 colston hall Presents 35 Crofters Rights 36

Exchange 37 The Fleece 38 The Full Moon 39 GALLIMAUFRY 40 The Golden Lion 41

hy-brasil 42 the lanes 43 Marble factory 44 Mr Wolfs 45 the old market 46

The stag & Hounds 47 swx 48 THekla 49 Trinity 50

Photography: Dominika Scheibinger / Martin Thompson / Ania Shrimpton / Khali Photography / Soul Media / Paul Lippiatt / Connor Baker / shotaway.com / Dean Forrest / Darren Andrews 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 | Accounts Executive Luke Guest Features Abi Lewis, Georgie Partington | Photo Editor Dominika Scheibinger | Print Stephens & George | Distribution Javier Fox

10 // SELECTION

SELECTION // 11

12 // SELECTION

SELECTION // 13

14 // SELECTION

SELECTION // 15

The Best UK Stand Up Comedy in Bristol

promotes

Operating since 1994

1994 2019 STAND UP FOR THE WEEKEND 25 YEARS OF OPERATION 21 YEARS AT THE HEN & CHICKEN

TOP UK CIRCUIT STAND UP COMEDIANS IN BRISTOL'S BEST VENUE FOR LIVE COMEDY THE HEN & CHICKEN STUDIO, 210 North St, Southville, Bristol, BS3 1JF

SAT 5 JANUARY 8.30PM £12 ADV/ £14 OTD*/ £15 DOOR

SAT 12 JANUARY 8.30PM £12 ADV/ £14 OTD*/ £15 DOOR

GLENN WOOL

ROGER MONKHOUSE

Canadian Glenn Wool is a cleverly subversive comedian. He tackles a wide range of subjects from religious fundamentalism to current world politics. "Seeing Glenn Wool perform should be made compulsory for the melancholy. Lethally funny" Metro

Roger Monkhouse is one of the most original and distinctive acts on the comedy scene. A consummate stand-up who employs a deadly combination of charm and menace to exert a masterful control over any audience. "Unfailingly funny" Chortle

with OLA

with TANIA EDWARDS

SAT 19 JANUARY 8.30PM £12 ADV/ £14 OTD*/ £15 DOOR

SAT 26 JANUARY 8.30PM £12 ADV/ £14 OTD*/ £15 DOOR

MARKUS BIRDMAN

IVO GRAHAM

Laugh, marvel and cry at one of the best comedians you've probably never heard of. The completely spell-binding Markus Birdman is a master of comic timing and isn't afraid to push what society deems appropriate. "Thought-provoking, hilarious stand-up" Edinburgh Reporter

Ivo Graham's gauche charm belies a talent rarely seen in someone so young. The Eton alumnus combines insightful stories with a sharp witted presence that has rapidly gained him wide acclaim. "Beautifully constructed comedy" The Scotsman

with ELEANOR TIERNAN

with MARK PALMER

FRIDAY 1 FEBRUARY 8PM £13

AHIR SHAH

SAT 2 FEBRUARY 8.30PM £12 ADV/ £14 OTD*/ £15 DOOR UK T OUR

DUFFER

with GARETH RICHARDS

Ahir Shah returns with a brand new stand-up show about life and what comes after, death and what comes before, and Bohemian Rhapsody. "Intricately crafted, profoundly moving, howlingly funny." Daily Telegraph

US comic Omid Singh is one of the top multicultural comics working today. He visits the UK for a whistle stop tour of top venues. "Omid is an absolute beast on stage... always bringing fire in his deliberate delivery." Comedy Central

SAT 9 FEBRUARY 8.30PM £13 ADV/ £14 OTD*/ £15 DOOR

WEDNESDAY 6 FEBRUARY 8PM £15

SINDHU VEE

OMID SINGH

UK T OUR

SANDHOG

Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer Nominee 2018, Sindhu Vee embarks on a UK tour with her critically acclaimed and Edinburgh Fringe sell-out show, Sandhog. "Acerbic perspective and unapologetic delivery of less politically correct home truths" The List

ALUN COCHRANE with SARA BARRON

In high demand on the UK and international comedy circuit, Alun Cochrane is a no-nonsense comedian who specialises in funny nonsense. Highly amusing anecdotes and strange flights of fancy. ""A master storyteller" The Metro

* ADV = Advance booking online/ OTD = On The Day online

See more / book online: THECOMEDYBOX.CO.UK

18 // HIGHLIGHTS

JANUARY

HIGHLIGHTS Words: Abi Lewis

1. NYE: THE WOLF OF TRINITY STREET

Ever watched Leonardo Dicaprio in Wolf of Wolf Street and wish you could live his lifestyle? Well, this is where you should be spending your NYE. With a lineup featuring The Nextmen, Gentleman’s Dub Club sound system, Gardna, Randall and more, you won’t want to be anywhere else this NYE. 31 Dec // 10pm – 6am // £17-£33 // Trinity

2. ALLERGIES DJ SET

The Allergies are undoubtedly one of Bristol’s favourite duos and Brisco cannot wait to host their DJ set. After establishing themselves in the funk, soul and hip hop world, The Allergies have been turning the heads of BBC6 Music, MixMag and more. 4 Jan // 9pm – 2am // Free // Brisco

3. THE GREAT BOWIE PARTY

Come and celebrate the life and music of David Bowie with Bristol’s very own 60-piece Fantasy Orchestra and choir. Put your favourite Bowie outfit on and witness your favourite Bowie songs in tremendous style. 5 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £10 - £15 // Trinity

4. GUNS 2 ROSES + KIKAMORA

If you want to re-live some of your favourite Guns N Roses songs live, then grab your tickets quick for this one. Recognised as the only tribute Guns N Roses act to perform with 4 different original GNR members, this is seriously close to the real deal. 11 Jan // 7pm – 11pm // £12 // The Fleece

5. LONELY THE BRAVE

Alternative rock band Lonely the Brave are acknowledged to be one of Britain’s most successful rock bands to surface over the past ten years. Head on down to Exchange to catch a memorable show with new front singer Jack Bennett. 11 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £15.12 // Exchange

6. ERIC THE RED ALBUM LAUNCH

Eric the Red is one of the most respected MC names to come out of Bristol. Celebrating the release of his debut solo album ‘Caught Red Handed’ this UK Hip Hop MC will be joined by Sean Peng, Smellington Piff and more. 11 Jan // 8.30pm – 11.30pm // Free // The Golden Lion

7. REBEL REBEL: A DRAG NIGHT CELEBRATING ALL THINGS DAVID BOWIE

Wig In A Box Promotions are throwing a party to celebrate the life and music of the icon the best way they can – in drag! Featuring Cheddar Gorgeous, Dis Charge and more. 12 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £12 - £15 // The Old Market Assembly

8. BAD SUNS + DYGL

American rock band Bad Suns are back to take over the UK with their electrifying live shows. Taking centre stage at Thekla this month, catch Bad Suns perform music from their debut album Language & Perspective and their 2016 release Dissapear Here, plus new material from their forthcoming release. 14 Jan // 7pm – 10pm // £11 // Thekla

9. MOMS JEANS

Deadpunk promotions will be presenting a treat for the ears this month, showcasing power pop band all the way from California. Plus, music from genre blending Just Friends and Essex post-hardcore band, Don’t Worry. 17 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £8 // Exchange

HIGHLIGHTS // 19

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10. J MASCIS

13. CRINKLE CUTS + LUNE

11. ONE INCH BADGE PRESENTS: FOUR FISTS

14. PTS: EMMA & MUN SING

Come and join the multi-talented frontman of Dinosaur JR at his live show this January, where the indie rocker will perform his solo material that has helped inspire today’s generation of guitar players and songwriters. 17 Jan // 7pm – 10pm // £22 // Thekla

Hip hop legends Astronautalis and P.O.S have come together to deliver a fresh new set with Four Fists, taking perfectly crafted rap verses with modern synths and drum beats executed in a melodic fashion not too dissimilar to indie rock. 18 Jan //7pm – 10pm // £12 // Hy-Brasil

12. NECKTR

Necktr pack their rich sound with influencers ranging from MF Doom to The Cinematic Orchestra. After spending their summer performing at festivals across the country, Necktr are back on the road to celebrate the release of their new EP ‘Something’s Happening’. Come and celebrate their live sound at The Attic Bar. 18 Jan // 8.30pm – 2am // £4 // The Full Moon & Attic Bar

Crinkle Cuts will be storming the Mr Wolfs stage this month to bring you a party to remember. Join the 7-piece brass band on the dancefloor, as they bring you the smoothest funk, reggae and newwave Latin. 19 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £3 - £4 // Mr Wolfs

Witness E.M.M.A. weave floral baroque melodies over UK Funky, Dub and crystalline Grime instrumentals, and dance your night away with Mun Sing’s neo-EBM distinct drum patterns with cyber grime. Presented by Psychotherapy Sessions. 19 Jan // 11pm – 3am // £3-£4 // Crofters Rights

15. HOBO JOHNSON & THE LOVEMAKERS

Californian alternative hip hop artist, Hobo Johnson and his band, The Lovemakers, are coming to Bristol as part of their highly anticipated UK tour. This cute as a button band will dazzle you with their contemporary spin on rap. 22 Jan // 7pm – 11pm // £17.40 // O2 Academy

16. OMYO

London-based pop duo OMYO first came together to create music for a bet. Now, this duo has taken over the pop scene with an infectious acoustic and synth-inspired urban-pop. What more could you want? 23 Jan // Free // 7pm – 11pm // Hy-Brasil

17. BRISTOL FEMME NIGHT

Get ready to welcome ‘Femme Night to Bristol. Giving people a platform to celebrate feminism & LGBT arts in style, Femme Night is a place to share poetry, music and cabaret in a cosy safe space. 23 Jan // 6pm – 10pm // Free // The Canteen

18. RICHARD SPAVEN

He may have been trained as a jazz drummer, but Richard Spaven’s passion for dum & bass and broken beat travels much further. Arguably one of the most open-eared drummers around, Richard will be bringing his adventurous sound to Rough Trade as part of Colston Hall Presents. 24 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £11.99 // Rough Trade

20 // HIGHLIGHTS

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JANUARY

HIGHLIGHTS 19. RAW ADDICTIONS: TASHA + AGRIPPA + YUSHH

Dance away the January blues at an evening filled with UK-inspired techno. Raw Additions will be taking over Rough Trade this month, to present a heavy line up of DJ’s, including TASHA, London based producer Agrippa and Bristol’s very own Yushh. 25 Jan // 8pm – 1am // £5 // Rough Trade

20. AFT RAPS PRESENTS CHESTER P (TASKFORCE)

This month at The Attic Bar, AFT Raps proudly presents the godfather, the veteran and quite frankly living legend in UK hip hop, Chester P. The Taskforce MC will be taking centre stage to share his words of wisdom and hypnotic storytelling flow. 25 Jan // 8.30pm – 2am // £4 // The Full Moon & Attic Bar

21. HOLY GOOF: GLOBES BRISTOL

Recognised as one of the biggest bassline producer names, Holy Goof is bringing his biggest project to date to Motion this month for an evening with all the biggest names under one roof. Featuring Holy Goof himself, plus the likes of Friction, DJ Hazard, Chimpo and more. 25 Jan // 10pm – 6am // £20 - £22.50 // Motion

22. ESDR PRESENTS: AQUARIA

25. GLADE MARIE

After a busy summer of festivals and gigs around the UK, DJ Glade Marie will be heading to No.51 to deliver a soulful set. Get yourself on to the dancefloor and appreciate the definition of good music. 26 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £4 // No.51 Stokes Croft

26. CANCER BATS

Rupaul’s Drag Race season 10 winner and all round awe-inspiring drag queen, Aquaria will be headlining the next instalment of ESDR at SWX. Get ready to witness the ‘Age of Aquaria’ show, with support from some of the most talent drag acts in the UK and beyond. 26 Jan // 6pm – 11pm // £20 // SWX

Canadian hardcore metal punks Cancer Bats return to headline The Fleece to kick start your year with a bang. Performing music from their sixth record ‘The Spark That Moves’, plus all of your favourite classics. Including support from Glaswegian metal heads, Bleed From Within. 28 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £15 // The Fleece

23. MALL GRAB PRESENTS: LOOKING FOR TROUBLE

27. THE ONCE

Mall Grab is set to return to Bristol for his first show in almost a year. Get ready for a 3-hour DJ set, filled with the best house for your pleasure. Plus, support from Salary Boy and Nite Fleit. 26 Jan // 10pm – 6am // £17.50 // Marble Factory

24. FUTURE DUB ORCHESTRA

Bristol’s very own homegrown Future Dub Orchestra will be bringing the finest soundscapes of dub and electronica to Mr Wolfs this January. Plus, support from your favourite turntablist Asian Hawk. 26 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £3 - £4 // Mr Wolfs

The Once are taking over the Wardrobe Theatre this month as part of Colston Hall Presents. This indie folk trio have been charming us with their eclectic sound since 2004 and continue to wow us with their creative sounds. 29 Jan // 8pm – 10.30pm // £12.33 // The Wardrobe Theatre

HIGHLIGHTS // 21

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28. IMAGINE THAT PRESENTS: ALCUNA WILDS + WE ARE STRANGERS MINDS + ARNO

31. BAMBALAN’S WINTER TERRACE

34. INVINCIBLE PIGS

29. OMAR SOULEYMAN

32. WALDO’S GIFT TRIO

35. RTD PRESENTS: CONTINUOUS MOVEMENT + VISCERA + ZEN ZERO

British/Dutch trip-rock band Alcuna Wilds will be delivering a set filled with melancholic sounds and reflective lyrics at The Lanes this month. Get a load of their diverse, distinctive sound, plus support from We are Strangers Minds and Arno. 30 Jan // 7pm – 11pm // £7 // The Lanes

After kicking off his music career as a wedding singer, big time collaborator Omar Soulyman has gone on to work with the likes of Björk and Four Tet. Catch him perform live this month at Marble Factory. Plus, support from Flamingods. 31 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £16 // Marble Factory

30. PETE BENNETT PRESENTS KARAOKE NIGHT

Pete Bennett is back again for another instalment of his weekly Karaoke night. Head on down to Stag & Hounds and grab the mic to sing along to your favourite classics from across the decades. Every Wed // 8pm – 12am // Free // Stag & Hounds

It might be the middle of the winter snap, but don’t let that put you off from enjoying roof terrace action and alfresco drinks at Bambalan this month. With a new covered, heated terrace and selection of incredible DJ’s including Alfresco Disco’s J.Morrison, Revilo, Jon Leisure and Loco 99, you won’t want to be anywhere else this winter. Every Fri-Sat // 12pm – 12am // Free // Bambalan

The trio bring out of this world musicianship combining Hip hop, Math, Jazz, Groove & Electronica to The Gallimaufry stage every Wednesday. Highlights this month include reworking Massive Attack’s music with guest Jordan Woollgar (9th) and inviting musicians Dave Sanders (16th) and Chris Langton (30th) to join them on stage. Every Weds // 9pm - 11pm // Free entry // The Gallimaufry

33. THE MOCKING JAYS

Five-piece rock band, The Mocking Jays deliver a perfect balance of pop, rock and swagger. Their rapid success has landed them support from BBC Introducing, 6 Music and tour the festival circuit. Check out their live show, filled with funky, sexy, pop. Plus, support from Lessens. 1 Feb // 7.30pm – 10pm // Free // The Lanes

Bristol’s very own Invincible Pigs will be bringing a trunk load of punk, DIY sound and attitude to Stag & Hounds this February. With a set filled with catchy melodies, contemporary cover songs and powerful vocals, you won’t want to leave this mosh pit. 9 Feb // 7pm – 11.59pm // Free // Stag & Hounds

Raise The Disco are back to start your year off on a high. Focusing on techno house, the charity led RTD crew will be bringing some of the best DJ’s, featuring Continuous Movement and more. 9 Feb // 9.30pm – 3am // Free // The Canteen

36. SHOTGUN WEEKLY DRUM & BASS SESSIONS

Once a week, get your drum & bass fix with the Shotgun Barbers crew at their drum & bass sessions. Join them and their resident DJs to push the underground sound and celebrate some of the best DJs Bristol has to offer. Every Tues // 8pm – 1am // Free // Faraway Cocktail Club

22 // COMPETITION

Win tickets • Win tickets • Win tickets

competition

Free entry for the whole of 2019 Win tickets to every Bam!Bam!Bam! show this year competition Arriving in Bristol seemingly out of nowhere in 2016, hip hop specialists Bam!Bam!Bam! quickly became the city’s top dogs for all things hip hop and jazz – bringing us some of the absolute greats such as GZA, Ghostface Killah, Masego, Alfa Mist, Akua Naru and The Pharcyde.

We’ve teamed up with Bam!Bam!Bam! to offer you the chance to win free entry to all of their shows throughout 2019. You read that correctly – free entry to every single show put on by Bam!Bam!Bam! for the whole year. And you can bring a friend with you. Take a look at what’s already in the diary at triplebam.com

After taking a well deserved break this month, they’re back in full force from February, kicking things off with a massive show from Tech N9ne, and the likes of KRS-One, Slum Village and Hot 8 Brass Band to look forward to over the coming months.

For your chance to win, head to nitelifeonline.com/win/bambambam by 28 January.

PROFILES // 23

profile - HOMEGROWN

profile - incoming

DLR

Gangstagrass

Bristol drum and bass heavyweight DLR is taking over Trinity for the night with his label Sofa Sound. With releases on some of the biggest labels on the scene including Symmetry and Metalheadz, DLR launched his own imprint in 2017 with his Quadrant collab, Ghostfish. Sofa Sound focusses on the warmer side of drum and bass, with big rolling basslines and his progressive brand of tech funk at the forefront. On top of releases from some of the underground’s most interesting new producers, Sofa Sound has delivered several DLR collaborations with the likes of Break, Randall and Ulterior Motive, as well as Hydro & War who will be joining him at Trinity this month.

Bluegrass meets hip hop group Gangstagrass is the brainchild of Brooklyn-based hip hop producer and country music fan Rench. The unlikely marriage of banjos, bars and beats with a hillbilly twang has won Gangstagrass fans the world over. If you think this is a novelty act, think again. Gangstagrass has an Emmy nomination under their belt for their song Long Hard Times To Come with rapper T.O.N.E-z, the title track for American TV series Justified, and a huge back catalogue of very special guest vocalists including Nitty Scott, Smif N Wessun, Kool Keith and Dead Prez. Their live show takes full advantage of the improvisational aspects of both hip hop and bluegrass, so fans can expect to hear a unique take on their songs at every performance. Rench answers our 10 questions...

Upcoming shows: 18 January, Trinity

Upcoming shows: 1 February, Thekla

Producer

Band

THOSE QUESTIONS... 1. What have you learned today? That even when you go to bed angry you can wake up happy. Likewise, if you go to bed happy you can wake up angry… Dreamland is a strange place. 2. Favourite track of all time? This is a serious question, one that is incredibly hard to answer as there are too many options, but I’m gonna go for Rhythm & Sound – King of my Empire, which is pure bliss to my ears. 3. It’s 3am and the party is winding down, what track do you play to get everyone going again? I’m never really too concerned with what the crowd want; I’m just so grateful that they want to come party and listen to the music I play, that I trust they know I will select correctly. 4. Who are your top three acts right now? The Sauce, Oakm, OneMind. 5. If you couldn’t work in music, what would you be doing instead? I’ve done this most of my adult life, which leaves me with few options, but I have good experience as a teaching assistant and I love working with kids – after all, they are the future. I’d be honoured to work in a school!

6. What was the last book you read? I’m not gonna lie, I’m absolutely terrible when it comes to reading books. I just think about beats and basslines instead of reading the words, then have to re-read the whole page again. 7. Favourite thing on TV? Massively into Better Call Saul. Those series just keep ending on me and then I have to wait months for another one. 8. Are you afraid of anything? I have never really liked the unknown, things that are out of my control like flapping around in deep water with all these sea creatures that are perfectly at home ready to munch me. 9. Tell us something people don’t know about you... I can’t stop buying Reebok Classic Leathers, it’s a real problem. 10. What are you doing tomorrow? Tomorrow I have a art exhibition at To The Moon in Old Market for my label Sofa Sound. I have my artist Adam Menzies coming down to meet all the people he’s been inspiring in Bristol, show us some of his work, and obviously have a few drinks as well!

soundcloud.com/dlrofficial // @dirtyleroi

THOSE QUESTIONS... 1. What have you learned today? I learned that people are ready to be part of something if you invite them. That co-worker you think is a loner may jump at the chance to be in a band or come to a protest or join your book club, so get out there and ask. 2. Favourite track of all time? Everyone must say this is impossible. Track I’m feeling today is Ohoopee River Bottomland by Larry Jon Wilson. 3. It’s 3am and the party is winding down, what track do you play to get everyone going again? Wanna Be Starting Something – it’s a slow build, but you know when it breaks down to the claps it’s irresistible. MJ is for everyone. 4. Who are your top three acts right now? Amongst the band we are doing a lot of talking about Black Thought, Rhiannon Giddens and Sturgill Simpson. 5. If you couldn’t work in music, what would you be doing instead? I would like to say particle physicist because I am a fan of that, but more likely I would be cleaning bathrooms at a truck stop.

6. What was the last book you read? Segregating Sound by Karl Hagstrom Miller. 7. Favourite thing on TV? The band has been watching The Good Place, which is super fun, but for serious TV I think Westworld is the most epic. 8. Are you afraid of anything? Lots of things! I think most of the time I am afraid of finding out I hurt someone. There is a lot of fear going around these days, but it is important to keep fear in its place and live your life. A lot of bad politics and bad decisions come from letting fear make the call. 9. Tell us something people don’t know about you... Wait, can I change the track from question two to Witch For A Night by Sugar Pie DeSanto? 10. What are you doing tomorrow? Looks like I will be listening to Witch For A Night a lot while I send lots of energetic emails and then make some beats.

gangstagrass.com // @gangstagrass

24 // LOCAL TALENT

LOCAL TALENT

POISONOUS BIRDS

Having surprised us last year with a new, refined sound in their Big Water and Dirty Water EPs, experimental electronic rock duo Poisonous Birds are ready to bring us their first major headline show, coming to The Louisiana this January via their own Be Softly imprint. Although their writing process has shifted further into electronic territory, the duo have found it hard to shake their rock backgrounds, resulting in a grippingly original sound with a smorgasbord of influences from techno to experimental electronic noise. Frontman and multi-instrumentalist Tom Ridley and drummer and co-writer Finn Mclean met as teenagers, despite at the time living over a hundred miles apart in Malvern and the Lincolnshire Fens respectively, when Finn – a fan of Tom’s old band – uploaded a drum cover of one of their songs to YouTube.

This felt like a new thing – at least to us The internationally successful, hardcore tech-metal band saw the video and sent Finn a t-shirt. He thought that was that, until one day he received a message inviting him to stand in for their drummer, who couldn’t make an upcoming tour. Finn ended up joining the band full time, where he and Tom

discovered a close musical compatibility – both leaving the band in 2014, after tiring of the style of music and the politics that came with being in a signed band.

that really wasn’t like the first EP at all. The first one was rock music with electronics, but this felt like a new thing – at least to us.’

Tom soon began writing music for the project that would become Poisonous Birds and although it was a solo effort at the time, he says it was written with Finn in mind. ‘I starting writing some random music, I didn’t really know what it was’ Tom explains, ‘but it was always kind of assumed that Finn would be in it when it was ready.’

Finn and Tom now live together in Bristol, which has been key to developing their sound. As well as the geographical proximity meaning more time to write together, they’ve been able to absorb Bristol’s many-faceted music scene and its knack of breaking down barriers between genre.

Their earliest tracks from 2017’s Gentle Earth EP were still largely Tom’s vision, bringing Finn into the fold to rework Tom’s percussion samples. However, when they wrote the track Big Water, something clicked. The song became the title track of their next EP and saw them make the jump from rock music with synthesisers, to the refined and complete sound they are proud to push now. ‘[Before Big Water] I wasn’t quite on board with the vision yet, but it was interesting enough to hold on to the tow bar of’ Finn recalls. Although the track Big Water was in process in the months before Gentle Earth was released, it only fully came to life when Tom and Finn got into the studio together to re-write its percussive elements. They ended up rethinking the song in a much bigger capacity and from that moment on, Tom and Finn were co-writers. ‘I ended up making a weird noise on a synth on Christmas Day 2016 on my parents’ sofa’, says Tom. ‘And that became the song

we’ve gotten into other forms of art (...) We’ve learned to write more emotively ‘We’re definitely a product of the city’ says Tom. ‘Some of our favourites are Spectres and Giant Swan, there’s definitely stuff they do that leaks into what we’re doing. Maybe the other way – I don’t know if they care’ Tom laughs. Today, Poisonous Birds is a world apart from the hardcore, tech metal that originally brought them together, which by definition is anything but experimental. Finn explains how they made the journey from North to South Pole: ‘Tom and I are both classic thinkers, through and through. We come from scientific backgrounds and that was our way of getting inspired to pick up an instrument and learn to play

LOCAL TALENT // 25

music – it was completely mathematical, thought-out music. Not felt, all thought. But over the past four years, we’ve gotten into other forms of art much more – poetry, visual art – and finally we’ve linked a more romantic side to our very classical approach to music. We’ve learned to write more emotively.’ ‘I regret not being better educated in music,’ says Tom. ‘I’m just about starting to feel my own understanding show and I’m trying to read around stuff. It’s interesting that one might think that tech metal is a more theory-heavy style of music, but really you can kind of stuff anything into interesting patterns and it works. Whereas I feel like now the nuance is much more exposed. So that’s something I’d like to work on as we start thinking about the next record – start making some more informed choices instead of stumbling our way through.’ Although the electronic side to what they do perhaps now takes a more central role to their writing, the finished package still has rock at its core – whether you want to prefix it with art, post, noise or otherwise. Tom has been consistently reducing the amount of live guitars he’s using, and the track Little Puzzle sees Finn trade his drum kit with a sampler for the song’s entirety. Their Schwer series should be considered wholly electronic, but somehow retains a Sigur Rós-esque rock vibe, particularly when heard within the context of the EPs. ‘I think that rock aesthetic or at least that delivery of a bit of a wall of noise and punchy beats is just us’ says Finn. ‘That’s where we’ve come from, that’s the kind of music we always go towards, be it electronic or otherwise – it’s got to be quite aggressive percussion wise. That’s just inherent, so most of the time we don’t even realise we’re making rock music. Put it this way, if we tried to make a movie soundtrack for a romantic film, it might accidentally be a rock track.’

Their show at The Louisiana this January is their biggest to date and they’re bringing in an additional live guitarist, which leaves Tom to focus on vocals and manipulating sound, with Finn on drums and an occasional swap to synth.

‘There is an antagonistic side to me that occasionally creeps out,’ says Tom ‘so there’s a part of that, but that’s not the biggest thing. I don’t really want to annoy everyone, I like to be nice to people.

Tom’s take on vocals is an interesting one. Sometimes they are absent and in vocal tracks like Big Water, Little Puzzle and Tangle, they shatter the typical intro, chorus, bridge format of traditional rock music; lyrics are sparse, chopped up and distorted.

‘The only thing is that when we started this project we had a motto: “I don’t care”. If we faced a crossroads, “I don’t care, let’s just do that one”. Our last band got so pent up in the music industry and image and horse shit, basically, so we said we’re not doing another band with a Facebook page. If it means we fail, we fail.

It would be false to say we’re super rebels, but we just want to do things the way we want to do them for now

Now that they’re happy with their sound and starting to gain momentum, the next thing on Poisonous Birds’ agenda is their debut album.

‘My approach to lyrics has always been about condensing a lot of rich meaning into not very many words’ Tom explains. ‘If you read it, it’s not really prose. It’s a bit choppy and just vibrant words, but with mood and meaning.

‘There will probably be one song out between now and then, which is ready to go’ says Finn. ‘Then we’ve probably got about seven started songs. But finishing things is a lot harder than starting things.’

‘We have a really good friend called Neema Askari who sings in a band called Fellsilent, and he’s always had this amazing flow – more like a rapper than a singer. It would be like another rhythmic instrument and that’s always really inspired me to not just crowbar in words, but find a word that has a musical quality to it. I think a part of poetry is the sound of the word, not just its meaning, so it’s similar in that respect.’

‘There’s no shortage of ideas, but turning it into something real is harder’ Tom adds.

‘I’ve spent the last few years absorbing totally weird, left field electronic music’ says Tom. ‘From the more accessible end like John Hopkins, all the way to basically white noise. But rock music won’t leave me, so what leaves my body is all the shit I like, with rock drums.’

Something that comes across throughout the Poisonous Birds project is a sense of resistance, whether that’s against traditional ways of releasing music or how they promote themselves as a band. They’re firmly anti-Facebook, even if it means limiting their audience and ultimate success.

‘It’s seeking new texture and you can do that quite easily when you’re writing because you’ve got the software up’ says Finn. ‘And maybe that doesn’t involve organic instruments, but then that’s fun because it informs the sounds you seek on an instrument when you’re playing it live.’

‘I definitely have a dislike for the accepted norms, I suppose’ says Tom. ‘If this is how you promote a record, let’s not do that. If these are the instruments used in rock music, let’s not use them...’

‘It’s not a particularly conscious middle finger to rock music or anything like that’ says Tom. ‘It is just the stuff we’re interested in amalgamated with our background, I suppose.’

‘We’re at a point now where if someone came along with a good offer that could take a load of work off us, I’m up for a record label. But for the last three years, we didn’t want to have anyone telling us what to do. It would be false to say we’re super rebels, but we just want to do things the way we want to do them for now.’

‘I think human beings have a habit of getting stuck in norms that if they were to reapproach with a fresh mindset today, they perhaps wouldn’t do anymore. So we carry that mindset through with everything’ says Finn.

Fans can expect to hear the new track at The Louisiana this month, alongside live reworkings of the last two EPs. One of the reasons Poisonous Birds’ live shows go down so well is precisely because they don’t write with it in mind, which means they have to push themselves to their limits with new and interesting compositions for the live performance. Tom and Finn will also be bringing their new, responsive light show with them to The Louisiana. ‘It will be bright and loud and hopefully better executed than ever’ says Tom.

Words: Rachel Morris Photos: Dominika Scheibinger 11 January – Poisonous Birds, The Louisiana poisonousbirds.com @poisonous.birds

BRISTOL 02.02.19 05.02.19 07.02.19 07.02.19 15.02.19 17.02.19 0 7.03.19 10.03.19 01.05.19 14.05.19

TECH N9NE A TRIBE CALLED RED SLUM VILLAGE X ABSTRACT ORCHESTRA

BROKEN BRASS ENSEMBLE KELVYN COLT HOT 8 BRASS BAND RODNEY P, BLAK TWANG, TY MEUTE NUBYA GARCIA KRSONE

T H E B E ST I N JA Z Z, E L E C T R O N I C A , H I P H O P A N D B E YO N D

TRINITY THE FLEECE TRINITY

THEKLA ROUGH TRADE MARBLE FACTORY THE FLEECE SWX FIDDLERS TRINITY

28 // THE INFLUENCERS

THE INFLUENCERS // BEHIND THE SCENES WITH

LIZZY ELLIS

It’s one thing having inspiring creatives in the music industry, but it’s another when these people give up their time to help others climb the ladder. Lizzy Ellis is one of these individuals who is driven by passion and desire to support others, helping many people along the way to develop a career in the music industry at the same time as cementing her own formidable reputation as an artist manager, label promoter and staunch advocate for women in the music industry. Over the past nine years, Lizzy has managed some incredible artists including Bonobo, Jordan Rakei and

Bristol office, so I just kept writing to them, emailing and asking for an internship or a chance to meet with them. I think it was a mixture of being persistent and having the right qualities, because it led to me getting an internship and then a full-time job. That’s why I’ve been there for so long!’ It goes without saying that artist management, particularly with artists in the leagues of Bonobo, is a lot of people’s dream job. Though with any job that puts bread on the table, Lizzy explains some of the real-world responsibilities she has to juggle day-today in her role. ‘It’s really difficult to put my typical day into a nutshell. In artist management you are overseeing every aspect of the artist’s career. Whether it’s gig bookings, PR, their record label or their publisher, the manager is always the one to connect all the dots and make sure everybody is following the artist’s vision and best interests. A lot of what I do is liaising between the artists and all of these different people. One thing I know for sure is I spend a lot of in front of my computer answering emails and travelling.’

The Heavy, working as an artist manger with industry heavyweights Red Light Management. On top of that, Lizzy finds time to work with Bristol’s all-female label Saffron Records and Pinch’s globally-respected Tectonic Recordings; not forgetting DJing out herself occasionally under her pseudonym Proverb.

Lizzy also assists with Bristol-based beast Tectonic Recordings. Run by dubstep pioneer Pinch, over the years the label has seen releases from the likes Flying Lotus, Loefah and Skream, and more recently, Mumdance and Logos’ seminal Proto. That’s on top of volunteering her time to help address gender inequality in the music industry. Lizzy is one of the founding members of Bristol Women in Music, although she decided to step back as a director over a year ago so that she could concentrate her energies on specific projects like Mix Nights and a number of evershifting roles including panel speaker, exhibition curator and industry conference organiser.

Moving to Bristol originally in 2006 to study, the multi-skilled music industry expert explains how she first got her foot in the door of the local music scene:

‘Red Light takes up a lot of my time, but I am also the project manager for Mix Nights. This is a beginners DJ course for women and female identifying people that has been running for three years now. It started off very informally in my friend Laura’s office, from Saffron Records, but over time it has evolved and I am so proud to be part of it.

‘I studied for a music degree at Bristol University, but after I graduated I was working cleaning jobs, or whatever I could get my hands on. It was the worst time to finish university because it was right in the middle of the recession.’

‘One thing I’m trying to learn is to say no to people to try and keep a work-life balance. That can be the hardest thing about this kind of work – especially because I love getting involved in things and I love everything I do.’

‘Eventually I found Red Light Management, who had a

Amongst all of her successes over the years, Lizzy

has a lot to be proud of. But it’s the Bristol-born Mix Nights that has made Lizzy smile the most. ‘Out of everything I’ve done, I am most proud of Mix Nights. A lot of hard work has gone into it and we’ve seen some amazing results. We’ve had over 100 people complete the course in the space of three years and some of the girls have gone on to huge things. We’ve had DJs go on to perform at

Out of everything I’ve done, I am most proud of Mix Nights Glastonbury, become residents at Motion and play at places like Printworks in London. Some of the girls have even gone on to have their own radio show. ‘Seeing people get their own legitimate bookings after attending the course is just an amazing feeling. I feel like we are actually helping address the gender balance in DJing by starting from the ground up.’ As we continue to talk about encouraging women to pursue their goals in a typically male-dominated music industry, we wanted to know if Lizzy experienced any negative encounters whilst climbing the ladder herself. ‘Over the years I have experienced subtle things. You have to have a bit thick skinned and really believe in yourself and what you are doing, but admittedly there has only been a couple of times where I thought “if I were a man this wouldn’t be happening”. ‘I remember during the early days, I turned up to a gig for one of my artists and before I had a chance to introduce myself to the venue crew, they immediately assumed I was a groupie. Experiences like that that teach you that you have to be quite assertive and forceful in this industry.’ Lizzy wraps up our chat with a few words on the importance of platforms like Mix Nights, Saffron Records, Bristol Women in Music and SisterWorks alike; which are run by women, for women to help address the industry’s gender balance:

It’s all about normalising producers, DJs and sound engineers in the industry to the point where people stop putting ‘female’ in front of a job title ‘It’s all about normalising producers, DJs and sound engineers in the industry to the point where people stop putting ‘female’ in front of a job title. Over the years it will gradually become more of a normal thing to see a woman behind a mixing desk. Right now, we need programmes like Mix Nights and Saffron Records to show younger women and girls that this is a viable option for them. It’s not just a boy’s club. ‘At some point in the future, we won’t need to do these kinds of things, but right now we are laying down the foundations by addressing the gender balance in the music industry.’

Words: Abi Lewis Photography: Martin Thompson @thefacecollective @mixnights bristolwomeninmusic.com/mix-nights

THE INFLUENCERS // 29

30 // PREVIEW

PREVIEW

HOLY GOOF

A key figure in the bass house movement of the past few years, Holy Goof brings his brand new Globes tour to Motion this month in partnership with The Blast, where Holy Goof will be playing alongside a lineup of friends and special guests.

Dropping his first release in 2015, the Holy Goof movement has been fast and furious The tour is in support of Holy Goof’s recently announced compilation album, due to drop this February. On top of

seven Holy Goof tracks, including four new releases, Globes will feature the sounds of 32 different artists across 23 tracks – with brand new exclusives aplenty. Globes is the culmination of years spent touring the world. As well as wanting to push some of the acts he’s met along the way, Globes also responds to a demand for this new, hyperactive, heavily bass-driven house sound that Holy Goof has helped take from basement raves to the underground’s mainstream. Dropping his first release in 2015, the Holy Goof movement has been fast and furious. In just a few years, Holy Goof is now headlining 2k+ capacity venues, working with the likes of Juaz and Tiësto, and has already ticked off the bucket list his own FABRICLIVE mix, sandwiched between Skream and bassline originator DJ Q.

‘I wanted to represent and push as many acts as I can that I’m feeling at the moment’ he explains. ‘There’s so much good new music and part of my show has always been about playing exclusive tracks. Another reason behind the album is that I’ve been playing in a lot of new places and countries where the sound isn’t so well known, but they all love it and want to hear more. So I wanted to present a body of music from the acts that are driving the sound.’ Like many of the scene’s current producers, garage was a strong influence for Holy Goof growing up. But unlike the more subtle, commercially-palatable references we’ve heard creeping in over the last few years, Holy Goof came straight in with the hard, unabashed basslines, with influences from drum and bass, grime and dubstep in the melting pot. ‘I have always just done what I’ve wanted to, all the way

Elliot Young

PREVIEW // 31

through’ he explains. ‘It’s important when you’re making music that you catch the vibe and enjoy what you’re doing – the moment you start trying to guess what other people will like, it’s not going to work.

I wanted to present a body of music from the acts that are driving the sound ‘Nothing I’ve ever made has been a conscious thing of “I want to make such and such a song”, I literally just sit down and make whatever comes out. I’m drawn to harder sounds naturally, no matter what genre I listen to, because they have lots of energy. But I’ve also been working on some softer stuff lately, just because that’s how I’ve been feeling.’ Although Holy Goof has no plans to make drum and bass, it’s one of those harder sounds that fans have come to expect in his sets. His Globes tour is no different, putting big basslines before genre. Joining Holy Goof on the lineup will be drum and bass legends Friction and Macky Gee, along with Bristol bass head Notion and Distinkt.

I’m drawn to harder sounds naturally, no matter what genre I listen to ‘From day one I noticed I had a lot of supporters that were primarily DnB heads’ he says. ‘There’s definitely a crossover with people who are into certain types of drum and bass and what I play, so naturally the scenes have collided.’ The Blast are on Room Two duty for the Bristol leg of his Globes tour, and will be complementing this crossover nicely, with a drum and bass fuelled lineup featuring Problem Central, DJ Hazard, General Levy and a Souped Up Records showcase.

Words: Rachel Morris 25 January – Holy Goof: Globes, Motion holygoof.com @holygoofuk

51 stokes croft

32 // 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.

REVRT

Revrt will be taking charge behind the No.51 decks this January to deliver a live performance of scratching, beat juggling and the finest selection of hip hop, funk and soul that’ll make you bust a groove.

18 Jan // 10pm – 4am // Free

GLADE MARIE

26 Jan // 9pm – 1am // Free

02 academy

VENUES // 33

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 some of Bristol’s most Notorious Weekly club nights.

HOBO JOHNSON & THE LOVEMAKERS

facebook.com/o2academybristol twitter.com/o2academybris instagram.com/o2academybris facebook.com/o2academybristol youtube.com/o2academytv

Californian alternative hip hop artist, Hobo Johnson and his band, The Lovemakers, are coming to Bristol.This cute as a button band will dazzle you with their contemporary spin on rap.

twitter.com/o2academybris instagram.com/o2academybris youtube.com/o2academytv

22 Jan // 7pm – 11pm // £17.40 Fri 18th Jan • 6.30pm • SOLD OUT

Wed 20th Feb

Mon 1st Apr

Enter Shikari

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox

Sat 6th Apr

Tue 22nd Jan

Hobo Johnson & The Lovemakers

Thur 21st Feb

Wed 23rd Jan

Fri 22nd Feb • 5.30pm

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Thur 24th Jan • RESCHEDULED DATE

Young Fathers Fri 25th Jan • 6pm

Skid Row Sat 26th Jan

Mastodon Tue 29th Jan

Steve Aoki Mayday Parade & The Wonder Years Wed 27th Feb

P.O.D. & Alien Ant Farm Thur 28th Feb

Ward Thomas Tue 5th Mar

Fredo Thur 7th Mar

Inglorious

U.F.O. “Last Orders” 50th Anniversary Tour

Wed 30th Jan • SOLD OUT

Fri 8th Mar • 6.30pm • SOLD OUT

Death Cab for Cutie Fri 1st Feb • 6.30pm

Dodgy

Maribou State Sun 10th Mar

Stiff Little Fingers

Sun 3rd Feb

Mon 11th Mar

Yasiin Bey performs Mos Def - The Ecstatic

Embrace

Wed 6th Feb • 6.30pm

Buckcherry & Hoobastank

Wed 13th Mar

Dodie Sun 17th Mar

Deaf Havana

The Zutons Sleaford Mods Mon 8th Apr

Sundara Karma Fri 12th Apr • 6.30pm

Sleeper Mon 15th Apr • 6pm

Papa Roach Thur 18th Apr

Monster Truck Fri 19th Apr • 6pm

Love From Stourbridge 2019 ft. Ned’s Atomic Dustbin, Pop Will Eat Itself, Miles Hunt DJ Set (The Wonder Stuff) Sun 21st Apr

Suede

Wed 24th Apr

Hollywood Undead Thur 25th Apr

Circa Waves Sun 28th Apr • SOLD OUT

Tom Walker Mon 6th May

Dermot Kennedy

Fri 8th Feb • 6.30pm

Wed 20th Mar

Fun Lovin’ Criminals

The Wailers

Sat 9th Feb

Fri 22nd Mar • 6.30pm

Gorgon City Live

The Herbaliser

Sun 10th Feb

Tue 26th Mar

The Dead South

NAO

Tue 12th Feb

Wed 27th Mar

White Denim

The Internet

The Selecter 40th Anniversary Tour

Sun 17th Feb

Thur 28th Mar

Thu 28th Nov

Blue October

The Stranglers

Electric Six

Fri 31st May • 6.30pm

Cash Thur 20th Jun

Taking Back Sunday 20th Anniversary Tour Thur 24th Oct

O2 Academy Bristol ticketmaster.co.uk

Frogmore Street, Bristol BS1 5NA • Doors 7pm unless stated Venue box office opening hours: Mon - Sat 12pm - 4pm

ticketmaster.co.uk • seetickets.com • gigantic.com

o2academybristol.co.uk

SKID ROW

Jan • 2019

Skid row are back to kick start 2019. Loaded with riff-heavy mayhem and hard rock classics from the multi-platinum band. Plus, support from special guests Backyard Babies, H.E.A.T and Vega.

25 Jan // 6pm – 10pm // £28.65

the canteen

34 // VENUES

Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY | @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.

BRISTOL FEMME NIGHT

Get ready to welcome ‘Femme Night to Bristol. Giving people a platform to celebrate feminism & LGBT arts in style, Femme Night is a place to share poetry, music and cabaret in a cosy safe space.

23 Jan // 6pm – 10pm // Free

WED 9th Wandering Wires Formed at Oxford University in 2016, contemporary jazz quartet Wandering Wires have a reputation for producing innovative sets that you won’t want to miss.

MON 14th DeCyphers

Hip Hop Session MCs Goose and Social Conscience put out their lyrics as well as openly welcoming all MC and vocal styles from around the city for a burnin’ freestyle jam.

SAT 12th

Los Pulpos Del Diablo Bending the laws of genre, LPDD experiment with jazz, funk, americana, world, prog, rock and folk. They really know how to get the jam swinging.

FRI 18th SAT Horning Timbali 19th Glory Revel in reggae? Then get down to Timbali. Mashing up Dub and Ragga with lashings of heavy bass, let loose to Pembrokeshire’s carnival starters.

Hailing from downtown Bath ‘Horning Glory’ play the duttiest brand of hardcore, sexed up brass you’re ever likely to hear.

WED 23RD Femme Night

Designed for women of any kind to meet each other in a secure and friendly environment whilst enjoying spoken word and local artists!

canteenbristol.co.uk * The Canteen, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY

RTD PRESENTS: CONTINUOUS MOVEMENT + VISCERA + ZEN ZERO Raise The Disco are back to start your year off on a high. Focusing on techno house, the charity led RTD crew will be bringing some of the best DJ’s, featuring Continuous Movement and more.

9 Feb // 9.30pm – 3am // Free

Colston hall Presents

VENUES // 35

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.

RICHARD SPAVEN

He may have been trained as a jazz drummer, but Richard Spaven’s passion for dum & bass and broken beat travels much further. Bringing his sound to Rough Trade as part of Colston Hall Presents.

book

0117 203 4040 colstonhall.org

24 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £11.99 // Rough Trade

Colston Hall loudly and proudly presents great shows in venues across the city Thu 24 Jan

Wed 13 Feb

Fri 1 Mar

Richard Spaven

Cedric Burnside

Tank & the Bangas

Rough Trade Bristol

The Louisiana

SWX

Thu 24 Jan

Wed 13 Feb

Sat 2 Mar

Mara Simpson & Gurt Lush Choir

Kaleem Taylor

Nubiyan Twist

The Exchange

Trinity Centre

Colston Hall Foyer

Wed 13 Feb

Sun 3 Mar

Tue 29 Jan

Poppy Ackroyd

Laura Gibson

The Once

Colston Hall Foyer

Louisiana

The Wardrobe Theatre

Fri 15 Feb

Sat 9 Mar

Wed 30 Jan

LaLa LaLa

John Paul White

Hy-Brasil Music Club

Ibibio Sound Machine

The Louisiana

Fri 15 Feb

Trinity Centre

Fri 1 Feb

Crooked Colours

The Louisiana

Dorian Concept (Brainfeeder) & Jameszoo

Sat 2 Feb

Fiddlers

Sun 10 Mar

Record & CD Fair

Sun 17 Feb

Colter Wall

Colston Hall Foyer

Angelo De Augustine

The Exchange Thu 21 Mar

The Howl & The Hum

Sat 9 Mar Colston Hall Foyer

Tue 5 Feb

The Folk House

Chance McCoy & Eli West

Wed 20 Feb

Swindle – Live

Ohmme

Fiddlers

The Wardrobe Theatre

The Louisiana

Thu 4 Apr

Sun 10 Feb

Sun 24 Feb

Penelope Isles

The Dead South

Kathryn Joseph

Rough Trade Bristol

O2 Academy

Colston Hall Foyer

THE ONCE

The Once are taking over the Wardrobe Theatre this month. This indie folk trio have been charming us with their eclectic sound since 2004 and continue to wow us with their creative sounds.

29 Jan // 8pm – 10.30pm // £12.33 The Wardrobe Theatre

the crofters XX rights

36 // 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.

CARL_H AND SAM WATSON

All lovers of techno and minimal house raise your hands, because this night will blow your socks off. Present Tense are returning to Crofters Rights for their 1st birthday celebration with Carl_H and Sam Watson.

12 Jan // 11pm – 6am // £2-£5

PTS: EMMA & MUN SING

Witness E.M.M.A. weave floral baroque melodies over UK Funky and crystalline Grime instrumentals, and dance your night away with Mun Sing’s neo-EBM distinct drum patterns with cyber grime. Presented by Psychotherapy Sessions.

19 Jan // 11pm – 3am // £3-£4

exchange XX

VENUES // 37

72 - 73 Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0EJ | @exchangebristol | facebook.com/exchangebristol vvv | 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.

MOMS JEANS

17 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £8

GRAVY TRAIN: HER’S

Liverpool based pop duo Her’s know how to wow the crowd with their captivating sound. Catch the Liverpool based pair take centre stage at Exchange for an evening of dazzling indie pop.

31 Jan // 7.30pm – 10.30pm // £9

the fleece

38 // VENUES

12 St. Thomas Street, Bristol, BS1 6JJ | @FleeceBristol | facebook.com/fleecebristol vvv | 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.

GUNS 2 ROSES + KIKAMORA

Recognised as the only tribute Guns N Roses act to perform with 4 different original GNR members, Guns 2 Roses are seriously close to the real deal.

11 Jan // 7pm – 11pm // £12

CANCER BATS

Canadian hardcore metal punks Cancer Bats return to headline The Fleece to kick start your year with a bang. Performing music from their sixth record ‘The Spark That Moves’, plus support from Bleed From Within.

28 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £15

THE FULL MOON / ATTIC BAR

VENUES // 39

vvv 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?

NECKTR

VP PRODUCTIONS PRESENT

Necktr pack their rich sound with influencers ranging from MF Doom to The Cinematic Orchestra. Necktr are back on the road to celebrate the release of their new EP ‘Something’s Happening’.

18 Jan // 8.30pm – 2am // £4

2019

DESIGN: INKIE

AFT RAPS PRESENTS CHESTER P (TASKFORCE)

This month at The Attic Bar, AFT Raps proudly presents the godfather of UK hip hop, Chester P. The Taskforce MC will be taking centre stage to share his words of wisdom and hypnotic storytelling flow.

25 Jan // 8.30pm – 2am // £4

the gallimaufry

40 // VENUES

26-28 The Promenade, Gloucester Road, BS7 8AL | @thegallibristol | facebook.com/TheGallimaufryBristol vvv | 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 their website for up-to date info on menus and events.

THE PHANTOM ENSEMBLE FEAT. CHALKY WHITE

The trio, led by beatsmith Simiah (King Underground) continue their monthly residency every third Sunday. This month they’re joined by Chalky White - a Cornish guitarist and talented multi-instrumentalist.

January

Monday

Open Mic

20 Jan // 9pm - 11pm // Free

Tuesday

Hosted by Mike Dennis

aufry.co.u

Wednesday

thegallim

8th Lewis Creave n’s Dhar ma Blues 15th Nuala Hona n + TBA 22nd Pocket Sun + Steve from Work 29th Maybug

ift Waldo’s GJa onica zz, Groove & Electr Hip-hop, Math,

o 2nd Waldo’s Gift Tri Attack ive ss Ma s: ork 9th Rew r ga oll Wo an feat. Jord nders 16th Feat. Dave Sa ration bo lla Co en Op 23rd ngton La ris Ch t. Fea th 30

Friday

the Sun Children ofork s Hosted by Soulw

4th Neathway 11th Ellie Stokes d 18th Kykkos Soun ods) (No de Wa y nn 25th Je

Sunday

ack Forth & Bdly Hosted by Ma

13th & 27th ls covers & origina Hip-Hop jam, tom Ensemble 20th The Phan te hi W ky al feat. Ch

Thursday 3rd Snazzback presen ts 10th Snazzback’s Glo bal Groove Experiment: India 17th GROOT 24th Snazzback 31st Snazzback pre sents

Saturday

Satta Lites

Whitey’s on the moon

Withdrawn, VMO$ + guests play beats, bumps & bass 5th Obeah (earthtrax) 12th Ben the Roman (Stepping Tiger) 19th D.Ham (Noods) 26th Sam Hall (Idle Hands)

WALDO’S GIFT TRIO

Get ready for another instalment of the finest maths, jazz. This month’s highlights include reworking Massive Attack’s music with guest Jordan Woollgar (9th) and Dave Sanders (16th) and Chris Langton (30th).

Every Weds // 9pm - 11pm // Free

the golden lion

VENUES // 41

244 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8NZ | @goldenlionbriz | facebook.com/goldenlionbristol vvv | 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.

ERIC THE RED ALBUM LAUNCH

Eric the Red is one of the most respected MC names to come out of Bristol. Celebrating the release of his debut solo album ‘Caught Red Handed’ he will be joined by Sean Peng and more.

11 Jan // 8.30pm – 11.30pm // Free

GOLDEN LION

JANUARY 2019

BUCKS QUIZZ - EVERY MON @ 8pm FREE PING PONG - EVERY TUESDAY OPEN MIC NIGHT - EVERY WEDS @ 8pm FRI 4th LUC KB Dance Off Legend Spins us a killer DJ set! SAT 5th BACKBONE BLUES BAND Seriously Tight Blues Band SUN 6th AROUND ABOUT DUSK Folk, Jazz & Country 4pm THU 10th ENTER THE LION Showcasing New Music FRI 11th ERIC THE RED Caught Red Handed Bristol Launch

Plus SEAN PENG & EL GROBBO (Lost Scroll Records) SMELLINGTON PIFF & DJ BOZAK!

SAT 12th CLOCKWORK CAROUSEL Americana & Alt Folk SUN 13th SLIMLINE SHUFFLERS New Orleans Style RnB 4pm

THU 17th HIP HOP JAM NIGHT LIVE Hip Hop Jam. Get Involved! FRI 18th DUBL 001 Heavy Bars Funky Bangers Heavy Artists

ARISTOCRATS / VRBL RECORDS / SOUR PHREE B2B CIRCA / THE LOUSY ALIENS / PIFFY

SAT 19th DUKES OF MUMBAI Garage & Surf Classics SUN 20th SCARLET MUSES Jazz & Swing 4pm

THU 24th FRI 25th SAT 26th SUN 27th

CS FLY Local Blues Groove Rock Band. 60’s/70’s Sound 3 DAY MILLIONAIRES / GAMBLERS / GUNDERSON BULLTOWN BOYS Rockabilly, Surf, Rock'n' Roll THE BAD DADS Sunday Afternoon Blues Stomp 4pm

THU 31st PIGSTY HILL BLUES CLUB Open Blues Jam SCARLET MUSES

Join Bristol based Scarlet Muses for a relaxing Sunday afternoon, as they perform the finest blend of jazz, swing and everything in between. Get your feet tapping on the weekend.

20 Jan // 4pm – 6pm // Free

Hy-Brasil XX

42 // VENUES

7-9 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1RU | @hybrasilmusicclub | facebook.com/HyBrasilMusicClub vvv | 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.

ONE INCH BADGE PRESENTS: FOUR FISTS

Hip hop legends Astronautalis and P.O.S have come together to deliver a fresh new set called Four Fists. Taking crafted rap verses with modern synths, executed in a melodic, indie-rock fashion.

18 Jan //7pm – 10pm // £12

2019 JANUARY

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Sun 6th: Zero Mode Fri 18th: Four Fists (One Inch Badge) Sat 19th: Resident DJ Weds 23rd: OMYO Thurs 24th: Arts2Life Fri 25th: Slipped Discs Sat 26th: Resident DJ Weds 30th: PILL (1% of One) 2-4-1 BURGERS EVERY TUESDAY

OMYO

London-based pop duo OMYO first came together to create music for a bet. Now, this duo has taken over the pop scene with an infectious acoustic and synth-inspired urban-pop. What more could you want?

23 Jan // Free // 7pm – 11pm

the lanes

VENUES // 43

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.

CROOKED LITTLE SONS

South West based punk band, Crooked Little Sons bring their firey energy to the stage in every show. Witness their raw energy live on stage, alongside Bully Bones and Radiators.

26 Jan // 7pm – 10pm // Free

THE MOCKING JAYS

Five-piece rock band, The Mocking Jays deliver a perfect balance of pop, rock and swagger. Check out their live show, filled with funky, sexy, pop. Plus, support from Lessens.

1 Feb // 7.30pm – 10pm // Free // The Lanes

Marble Factory

44 // VENUES

74-78 Avon Street, Bristol | 0117 972 3111 | @MarbleFactoryUK | facebook.com/marblefactorybristol | marblefactorybristol.com

The team at Motion have delivered another cutting-edge live music venue for Bristol, with their recently refurbished, 1600-capacity little sister, Marble Factory. The new warehouse space offers an immersive, all-encompassing audiovisual experience and is set to make its In:Motion debut this year, hosting the likes of Flying Lotus, Enzo Siragusa and Patrick Topping.

MALL GRAB PRESENTS: LOOKING FOR TROUBLE

Mall Grab is set to return to Bristol for his first show in almost a year. Get ready for a 3-hour DJ set, filled with the best house for your pleasure. Plus, support from Salary Boy and Nite Fleit.

26 Jan // 10pm – 6am // £17.50

OMAR SOULEYMAN

31 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £16

mr wolfs XX

VENUES // 45

32 St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1TG | @MrWolfsBristolvvv | 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.

CRINKLE CUTS + LUNE

19 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £3 - £4 // Mr Wolfs

FUTURE DUB ORCHESTRA

Bristol’s very own homegrown Future Dub Orchestra will be bringing the finest soundscapes of dub and electronica to Mr Wolfs this January. Plus, support from your favourite turntablist Asian Hawk.

26 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £3 - £4 // Mr Wolfs

the Old Market Assembly

46 // VENUES

25 West Street, Old Market Bristol | @oldmarketassembly | facebook.com/oldmarketassembly vvv | 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.

REBEL REBEL: A DRAG NIGHT CELEBRATING ALL THINGS DAVID BOWIE Wig In A Box Promotions are throwing a party to celebrate the life and music of the icon the best way they can – in drag! Featuring Cheddar Gorgeous, Dis Charge and more.

12 Jan // 9pm – 1am // £12 - £15

FRI 11

Peanut Shuffle Club

FRI 18

Snazzback

Celebrating their album launch, this party will be welcoming fresh sounds of one of Bristol’s finest outfits.

They approach afro-funk and psych-jazz with a free improv sensibility and a collaborative spirit, expanding groove driven jazz with all the pizzaz that goes with being snazz.

SAT 12

SAT 26

, Rebel Rebel

To celebrate an icon, Wig In A Box Promotions want to bring some friends along to celebrate Bowie’s life & music the only way they know how!

, Hot Night

In The City

Join Alyssa van Delle (host of Category is...) and a surprise guest for a night that will be equal parts naughty and nice! Grab yourself a cocktail and get to the front for a dragtastic night of fun and frolics.

The Old Market Assembly, 25 West Street, Old Market, BS2 0DF bookings@oldmarketassembly.co.uk ; 0117 373 8199

SOLVE ALONG A MURDER SHE WROTE

Pit your wits against JB Fletcher at Solve-along-a-Murder-She-Wrote: an interactive screening of an episode of Murder, She Wrote. Hosted by super-fan and award-winning playwright Tim Benzie, the night features games, prizes and audience participation.

10 Feb // 6pm – 10pm // £5 - £6

the stag and hounds

VENUES // 47

74 Old Market Street, Bristol, BS2 0EJ | @stagbristol | facebook.com/theStagandHoundsBristol | 0117 922 6439 | eventbars.com

PETE BENNETT PRESENTS KARAOKE NIGHT

Pete Bennett is back again for another instalment of his weekly Karaoke night. Head on down to Stag & Hounds and grab the mic to sing along to your favourite classics from across the decades.

Every Wed // 8pm – 12am // Free

JANUARY AT THE STAG AND HOUNDS

One of the city’s most legendary live music venues, Stag and Hounds pride themselves on their eclectic, experimental but accessible music programme, inclusive atmosphere, great drinks at decent prices and general fun vibes. A pub and music venue all rolled up in one big kooky haunted house shaped package.

17th Jan Thur 3rd &

DAY N O M Y R E V E OPEN MIC

Mon 7th

K ARAOKE s ' t t e n NIGHT! te Ben

Wed 9th

EVERY WEDNESDAY!

ent DJ's nds resid orld's weird u o H & Stag onth the w Fri 11th - you the best of ry friday this m e g v e in oves bring ave! able gro st punk r o P / & dance o c is lectro/D INT IENCE ! E C S th JAZZ JO Sat 12 UNDAY

-S Sunday and -5pm y r e v e & B Sun 13th Loose Leaf Tea racking e h, Bad T s h e T fl it h ir it p S w resents -

ICE p LACK AL S th 19 t very Sa v night e lice djs o A r p k c im la y S d + W come AND NE R B th 4 Thur 2 ursday other Th

SLACK ALICE

This January Slack Alice invites local heroes October & Borai to perform their debut Spiritflesh live show. Support from Bad Tracking & Slack Alice DJs.

19 Jan // 8pm – late //£3 - £5

SWX XX

48 // VENUES

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.

CAKE

American alternative rock band Cake are back after an 8-year absence, to deliver their most beloved sounds from the past 30 years. Grab your ticket to witness a blast from the past.

18 Jan // 6.30pm – 10pm // £30.80

ESDR PRESENTS: AQUARIA

26 Jan // 6pm – 11pm // £20

thekla

VENUES // 49

The Grove, Bristol, BS1 4RB | @theklabristol | facebook.com/theklabristol | 0117 929 3301 | theklabristol.co.uk

Located on board a converted German cargo ship, Thekla is an award-winning live music and club space. From live toe-tapping Americana to banging house and techno, the crew have all musical tastes covered. Playing host to weekly club nights as well as major national and international touring live acts, Thekla is one of Bristol’s best loved venues.

BAD SUNS + DYGL

Catch Bad Suns perform music from their debut album Language & Perspective and their 2016 release Dissapear Here, plus new material from their forthcoming release.

THEKLA

LIVE LISTINGS

14 Jan // 7pm – 10pm // £11

The Grove East Mud Dock Bristol BS1 4RB theklabristol.co.uk | thekla.club F L theklabristol | I X theklabris alttickets.com • gigantic.com • bristolticketshop.co.uk

MONDAY 11TH FEBRUARY

MONDAY 14TH JANUARY

BAD SUNS

DE STAAT

THURSDAY 17TH JANUARY

TUESDAY 12TH FEBRUARY

J MASCIS

LOUIS THE CHILD

SUNDAY 20TH JANUARY

WEDNESDAY 13TH FEBRUARY

KOVIC

EMAROSA

FRIDAY 15TH FEBRUARY

THURSDAY 24TH JANUARY

ESCAPE THE FATE

BEANS ON TOAST

ISRAEL NASH

SUNDAY 17TH FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY 30TH JANUARY

CLOUD NOTHINGS

BILL RYDER-JONES MONDAY 18TH FEBRUARY

FRIDAY 1ST FEBRUARY

DECAPITATED

GANSTAGRASS

WEDNESDAY 20TH FEBRUARY

SATURDAY 2ND FEBRUARY

PSYCHEDELIC PORN CRUMPETS

TEN TONNES TUESDAY 5TH FEBRUARY

GHETTS

THURSDAY 21ST FEBRUARY

KRIS BARRAS BAND

WEDNESDAY 6TH FEBRUARY

THIS WILDLIFE & WILLIAM RYAN KEY

TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY

GUS DAPPERTON

+ JIM LOCKEY

WEDNESDAY 27TH FEBRUARY

RUTS DC

THURSDAY 7TH FEBRUARY

BROKEN BRASS ENSEMBLE SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

SATURDAY 16TH FEBRUARY

MONDAY 28TH JANUARY

SOLD OUT

JIMOTHY LACOSTE

THURSDAY 28TH FEBRUARY

JUNIUS MEYVANT

FRIDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

MONDAY 4TH MARCH

KERO KERO BONITO

BAS

SATURDAY 9TH FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 5TH MARCH

WHISKEY SHIVERS

SEAFRET

SUNDAY 10TH FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY 6TH MARCH

THE MURLOCS

SAINT RAYMOND

J MASCIS

17 Jan // 7pm – 10pm // £22

trinity XX

50 // VENUES

The Trinity Centre, Trinity Road, Bristol, BS2 0NW | @trinitybristol vvv | facebook.com/trinitybristol | 0117 935 1200 | 3ca.org.uk

Penetrating Old Market’s skyline and ear drums, Trinity is home of the sound system in Bristol, with their monthly Teachings in Dub nights and regular showings from some of the world’s best underground artists. The Grade II listed converted church also make very good use of their natural acoustics with live performances from a mixture of huge and upcoming names.

NYE: THE WOLF OF TRINITY STREET

Looking for a NYE plan? With a line up featuring The Nextmen, Gentleman’s Dub Club sound system, Gardna, Randall and a Wolf of Wall Street theme, you won’t want to be anywhere else this NYE.

31 Dec // 10pm – 6am // £17-£33

THE GREAT BOWIE PARTY

5 Jan // 7.30pm – 11pm // £10 - £15

o t p u g n i Offer

% FF O

t n u o c s i D Student -Unisex Barbers-

(We charge by length of hair not gender!) Bearpit

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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    pressurebristol • www.thekla.club • www.pressureclub.co.uk Please drink responsibly