Nitelife December 2019 by NITELIFE

DE C 2019 . I S S U E : 143 . F RE E DOCUMENTING BRISTOLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NIGHTLIFE CULTURE SINCE 2007

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ISSUE 143

DECEMber 19

Eats Everything 24 If I wasn’t on this side of the DJ booth, I would be on the other side.

HIGHLIGHTS Our top gigs and clubnights this month 20-23

WORDS

Wilkinson 36 It’s something different, something for the dancefloor and something that takes me back to my roots.

Eats Everything 24 My Nu Leng 28 WIN: Shindig 2020 35 Wilkinson 36 Behind the scenes: Cat Roberts 38 Toodles & The Hectic Pity 40 Drinks with: Mala & Commodo 66

LIVE & CLUB LISTINGS

Full event listings this month 43-61

DRINKS GUIDE

Bristol’s favourite watering holes 69-79

Mala & Commodo 66 When you’re honest and you don’t overthink it, that’s when your best work comes out.

Cover image: Ania Shrimpton

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DECEMber Highlights Words: Brad Penhaligon

Orphic A new project featuring instrumentalists Pete Judge, Chris Jones, Matt Brown and Sophie Stockham. Together they will explore some of their favourite compositions by Thelonious Monk, Dewey Redman, Don Cherry & the Art Ensemble Of Chicago. 1 December // 8pm – 10:30pm // Free // Tobacco Factory

The House Party Project Following 2 sold out shows, the hip hop and disco night returns for one more before the end of the year. With resident DJs spinning some old school classics, expect a party atmosphere all night long. 4 December // 11pm – 3am // £6 // The Lanes

BIMM End of Term Party Celebrate the end of winter term with students of BIMM, as all are welcome to witness some of their top talents at work, with 20 acts playing on the night. Expect lots of original music as well as covers of popular hits. 5 December // 7pm - 10pm // £3 // Trinity Centre

Intrigue x Space Cadet: LSB & DRS Drum and Bass heavyweight LSB and Manchester MC DRS rock the boat for the launch of their new LP The Blue Hour. They are accompanied by a wealth of talent such as Dogger & Mindstate with Liam Bailey on live vocals. 6 December // 10pm – 4am // £14 // Thekla

Imperial Leisure An energetic group providing a fun-loving throwback to the ska-2-tone era combined with more recent punk rock-hip hop sounds. Imperial Leisure are a band born out of school friendships, going from strength to strength. 7 December // 8pm – 1am // £13 // Exchange

Noods 4th Birthday Independent Bristol online station Noods Radio celebrate their fourth year of existence with a Black Swan bonanza, pairing up Dutch DJ Orpheu the Wizard with one of Noods’ longest standing residents, Tilly. 7 December // 11pm – 6am // £12 // The Black Swan

Talisman A night of jazz infused reggae in the Attic as Talisman heads up a tasty lineup. The group are back together after 30 years apart to support the re-release of their classic roots single Dole Age. With support from Dr Gaffa and DJ Guy. 7 December // 8:30pm – 2am // £4 // Attic Bar

Wax Music Sixth Birthday After six constant years of hard work, Wax Music celebrate their birthday with a day party with some of their favourite artists. Catch the likes of Trudy and the Romance, FEET, PVA, and The Shuks. 7 December // 2pm – 11pm // £12 // Rough Trade

The Blue Aeroplanes An art‐rock institution acknowledged as an influence on REM, Radiohead and countless 80’s/90’s post-punk/alternative bands. The highly revered band juggle many responsibilities such as running The Fleece, and inspiring a new wave of artists at BIMM, but still find the time to put on a show. 8 December // 7pm – 11pm // £18 // The Fleece

RNB Superjam Winter Edition Donell Jones, an American musician and record producer known for the hits U Know What’s Up and Where I Wanna Be, heads to Bristol for an rnb superjam alongside Next, an rnb trio who were popular in the early 2000s following their releases Wifey and I Still Love You. 8 December // 7pm – 11pm // £32.50 – £37.35 // O2 Academy

Hannah Williams & The Affirmations A British soul musician who played a part in Jay-Z’s chart-topping album 4:44. Her voice has been compared to the likes of Amy Winehouse and Adele, and she heads to Bristol following the release of her album 50 Foot Woman. 10 December // 7pm – 10pm // £15 // Rough Trade

Colston Hall Presents: Jesse Marchant A Swiss-Canadian songwriter with tales of heartbreak and pain, he shares his new album Illusions of Love, full of beautiful tracks with incredible subtleties. Balancing a vivid new sound with mature control and rootedness. 11 December // 7:30pm – 10:30pm // £10 // The Louisiana

Mark Lanegan Lanegan’s work tells its own stories and weaves its own wonders. From Washington D.C, the alternative singer/songwriter appears in Bristol following the release of Somebody’s Knocking, which reached 14th on the US billboards. 11 December // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50 // SWX

Camo Clave An electro-tropical band who combine traditional Latin American rhythms with synthesizers and other effects. They guarantee an exciting and energetic party with rumba and reggae with strong hints of dub and electro. 13 December // 10pm – 2am // Free // The Old Market Assembly

WDC presents: Danalogue & Cykada A special double headline showing, as Dan Leavers – a keyboard/synth wizard that is one third of The Comet Is Coming – joins Cykada, A 6 piece tornado of horns, guitars, drums, electronic samples & sound effects. 13 December // 9pm – 3am // £13.50 // The Loco Klub

BLG / Wizzarding Promotions presents: Kristof Hahn A Berlin-based guitarist, known for playing with the likes of Alex Chilton, Tav Falco, Chris Spedding and his most infamous role of being the lap steel guitarist for the newly reformed Swans. 13 December // 7:30pm – 10:30pm // £10 // The Crofters Rights

Hot Snakes A post-hardcore band from California led by Rick Froberg and John Reis, who were both heavily influenced by bands such as The Wipers, Suicide, and Micheal Yonkers Band, who have helped mould their distinctive sound. 13 December // 7pm – 10pm // £18 // Thekla

Teachings in Dub A sound system clash banger at Trinity centre as 2 sounds meet in one arena, one from Bristol, one from London. With what promises to be an epic lineup, this won’t be one to miss after the success of The Weekender. 13 December // 10pm – 5am // £8 // Trinity Centre

DECEMber Highlights Words: Brad Penhaligon

The Hucklebuck The Hucklebuck are a five-piece band who put their own print on traditional electric styles, from early jump blues to later Texas and Chicago material, all played with real authenticity and swing. 14 December // 9pm – 4am // £3 – £4 // Mr. Wolf’s

Useless Royals Dance floor electronica and bouncy beats featuring DJs from Ruffnek Diskotek & Horseplay. Inclusive to everyone, so head down for an evening of controlled chaos and light hearted fun. 13 December // 8pm – 12am // Free // To The Moon

Captain Jamaica & The Mellotones A night of heavyweight reggae from BackBeat sound systems Captain Jamaica and his band The Mellotones. They bring to you their own arrangements of reggae classics as well as some original material to boot. 14 December //9:30pm – 12:30am // Free // The Canteen

Hiss Golden Messenger An American folk music band, originating from Durham, North Carolina. Their sound combines elements from various musical genres, such as folk, country, dub, country soul, rhythm and blues. 14 December // 7pm – 10pm // £17.50 // Thekla

Jinglefest Got the winter blues after Inglefest? Well then Jinglefest will be sure to lift your spirits. With 2 stages, 13 bands and a cracking lineup including Toodles & The Hectic Pity, Bite The Buffalo, Intoku and Two Day Coma, this is the perfect way to kick-start the festivities. 14 December // 2pm – 11pm // £12 // Exchange

Sound of the Sirens Exeter-based duo Abbe Martin and Hannah Wood combine to create Sound of the Sirens, specialising in acoustic folk/rock. They are speeding through the country following the release of their album This Time. 14 December // 7pm – 11pm // £12.50 // The Louisiana

Steve Mason A Scottish musician, best known as the lead singer and one of the founding members of The Beta Band, and has also appeared on TV shows such as Never Mind the Buzzcocks, and The Adam & Joe Show. Expect to hear some songs from his January album About The Light. 16 December // 7pm – 10pm // £23 // Exchange

Verb T & Pitch 92 Four Owls and original High Focus member Verb T teams up with producer Pitch 92 for another Bristol showcase. They have joined forces on two albums Good Evening, and the latest A Question of Time, which was produced with live shows in mind. 17 December // 7pm – 11pm // £10 // Exchange

Waldo’s Gift Reworks Astral Weeks Waldo’s Gift are joined by Pete Cunningham to rework the sounds of Van Morrison’s ‘Astral Weeks’. Featuring James Vine on drums, Harry Stoneham on bass and Alun Elliot-Williams on guitar. 18 December // 9pm – 11pm // Free // The Gallimaufry

Off Me Nut Xmas CRACKERS The crew head back to their favourite city for another night of carnage, with sets from happy hardcore legend Scott Brown, Phatworld, Ben Suff Donk and Dr. Oscillator that will kick off your Christmas celebrations like no other. 20 December // 10pm – 4am // £11 // Thekla

Reggaeton party The Latin fever returns at The Lanes as the Reggaeton party are in town, catch them there on the third Friday of every month.Expect other genres such as hip hop and rnb for a spicy fiesta. 20 December // 10:30pm – 3am // £4 – £6 // The Lanes

Boxing Day Party Head to No. 51s to nurse your Christmas hangover, with pizza and cocktails being served all day, as well as plenty of Christmas joy left over to spread. 26 December // 9pm – 2am// Free // No. 51s

Cut Throat Francis A Bristol based Balkan swing band, with tongue in cheek songs about failing to be successful, responsible grown-ups on folk instruments; sometimes in swing rhythms, and mostly with upbeat Eastern European flavours. 29 December // 8pm – 11pm // £5 // Crofters Rights

AREA 404 New Years Eve Gathering After the success of their Halloween double-weekender, Boomtowns new venue AREA 404 opens its doors again for another night to see out 2019. Who knows what could be around each corner, head back for the New Years Day party the next day if you have the stamina. 31 December // 8pm – 4am // TBC // AREA 404

Liquid Lunar NYE Party If you fancy some euphoric liquid drum and bass to welcome you into the new year, look no further than To The Moon, as their selection of DJs will guarantee a cracker that will kick off 2020 on the right foot. 31 December // 6pm – 1am // Free // To The Moon

One Night at the Disco NYE A special selection of secret performers and DJs who will take you on a trip down memory lane through your favourite funk, soul and disco classics all night long. The Marble Factory will be going all out with immersive decor, disco balls and confetti for this night to remember. 31 December // 9pm – 4am // £11.80 – £28.75 // Marble Factory

The Blast NYE A wicked night guaranteed as My Nu Leng take control for a special midnight set, with performances from Darkzy and Window Kid, as well as S.P.Y in attendance to see out 2019 with the finest in bass heavy sounds. 31 December // 9pm – 5am // £33.50 // Motion

Studio 54 NYE A disco utopia at Bambalan as the club will be theming their night on the iconic New York club Studio 54. Head down early for a delicious feast or show up late for a boogie until the early hours, 31 December // 7pm – 2am // £10 – £35 // Bambalan

EATS EVERYTHING NOW ONE OF THE WORLD’S TOP-RANKING DJS, BRISTOL’S EATS EVERYTHING IS AS EXCITED ABOUT MUSIC AS HE’S EVER BEEN.

I don’t think I could work any harder at DJing

Since his Entrance Song blew up on the resurgent house music scene in 2011, Bristol’s Dan Pearce AKA Eats Everything has been a consistent force at the forefront of the underground dance music scene. Excitement only continues to rise around the incredibly hardworking DJ and producer, whose Eats Everything moniker describes his passion and aptitude across a number of sounds, from techno, to acid house, jungle, disco and plenty more. With summer-long Ibiza residencies, increasing sit ins on BBC Radio 1’s Friday night show, and placing an impressive number 42 in DJ Mag Alternative Top 100 DJs for 2019, Eats Everything is easily one of Bristol’s most successful musical exports. Following the close of his Come Rave with Me UK tour – which sold out Fabric the weekend before – we meet Dan in his Bristol studio on a very rare Friday off. Looking at Eats Everything’s tour schedule takes some calculation to work out how he fits it all in, which sometimes sees him hop from one event to an extended set elsewhere in the globe, in the same evening. Though the reason behind a particularly prolific couple of years in terms of releases, he tells us, is due to cutting down on shows. However, his version of scaling back is very different from ours – working his way down from 140 gigs in 2016, toward this year’s still-massive 105 shows.

‘Before the last two of years, I just DJ’d the whole time’ he says. ‘I’ve stopped doing as many gigs so I could physically come here more and do work, so I can keep DJing. If you don’t make music, eventually people are going to say “fuck off, we’re not interested.”

volume of Dan’s DJ sets is the amount of work he puts into each one, with his infamous ‘Rebeefs’ setting his shows apart from any other DJ in the scene. Creating his own edits of tracks, Dan makes sure that people coming to his shows are rewarded with an experience they won’t get elsewhere.

‘I’m not really one of these people who gets inspired. For me, I feel like inspiration comes when I’ve been in the studio for a few days. If I get one day in the studio, I don’t do anything. I procrastinate and I try and get out of making music, then go home early and, while my wife’s out, sit and watch telly.

During our conversation, Dan opens up his current Rebeefs folder on his computer showing 1,677 edits – and almost eight straight days of music played all the way through.

‘But if I know I’ve got three or four days here, then after day one, I become inspired. By the end of day two, I’ve made two tracks. And in the next few days, I’ll make three or four other records. But I need a period of time to get into it.’

‘When I was a kid and when I started DJing, even until early to mid-2000s, record shop culture was still a massive thing’ he begins to explain. ‘I would go to this shop called Bang Bang three or four times a week. When you become friends with the record shop owners, they’ll get like five promos in and if they think you’ll like it, they hold it back for you, so you get these secret special tunes.

This year alone has seen big releases including his excellent acid rave-tinged Lickal Rolla EP on Loco Dice’s Desolat, Green Velvet collaboration Complex, and techno rumbler Comatose for Dense & Pika’s Kneaded Pains. On top of that, he’s launched new label EI8HT Records with longtime friend Andres Campo – already on its fifth release – and has continued pushing his Edible Records.

‘In those days, there were only so many tracks pressed, so if you were lucky enough to get this tune, you would stand out. Whereas now, everyone can have access to anything.

‘I am quite hard working’ he admits. ‘I don’t think I could work any harder at DJing. I could probably work a little bit harder at producing.’

Working within a scene that can lend itself to solitude, over the years, Dan has shown himself to be quite a collaborative artist, in his label set ups and in the studio, as well as at parties.

Another factor adding to our astonishment at the sheer

‘So I do the Rebeefs to set myself apart and so that, when I play, only I’ve got these tunes. Then I’m unique and it’s my way of getting record culture in my daily life.’

Words: Rachel Morris Photos: Liam Dunkley eatseverything.com @eatseverything

‘Being in the studio with someone doesn’t always work out. You get together and think, this is going to be a fucking long day. But, for example, I had Fatboy Slim in here recently and it’s the first time he’s been in a studio for ten years. ‘We’ve become really good friends, me and Norman, and we had fucking such a wicked time in here. We made a tune, which we’re going to put out next year, and we’re going to try and get in the studio again. It was very much I was doing everything and he was going, do this and do that.’ At this point, Dan picks up a broom handle from the corner of the room and starts pointing at different corners of the giant studio screen, which he has photo evidence of Fatboy Slim enacting. ‘Having someone like that, even though he didn’t do anything technical at all – he didn’t impart any wisdom on me – just being in the studio with somebody that’s made all those records... Whether you like Fatboy Slim or not, you can’t deny how fucking unbelievably talented he is and how groundbreaking and how different he is and what a fucking maverick he is. ‘It can be very, very fruitful and beneficial. There’s a guy on my label called Lord Leopard, who shares my studio, because I’m hardly ever here; he will help me and I will help him finish tunes. Sometimes you’ve made the tune, but you’re not sure about it, and it’s good to have him come

house and techno delectations. ‘I want my legacy to be someone like Green Velvet. If you look back through history at Green Velvet, you don’t really think of him as techno or house – you think of Green Velvet. And that’s what I want. I don’t want people to think of me as a techno guy, or a house guy or a jungle guy or a whatever guy. ‘I want people, when they think of me, to think of me and that’s it. Where the music all comes together and it will fit, no matter what era I’ve been making it in. I wouldn’t say it’s ever really been en vogue, what I’m making – I just make what I’m making and it’s kind of worked with the time. ‘I grew up playing acid techno nights through to hard house nights; jungle, hardcore, everything – I’ve played them all. It’s worked out in my favour that I have this plethora background. I’m an everyman DJ – I’ll play anything I can fit.’ If you needed any more proof, Dan lets us in on an event in the works for next year that will see this put to the test. ‘I can’t say any more than we’re going to do this party somewhere next year, and it’s going to have loads of different arenas with every type of music you can imagine, and I’m going to play a set in every room. That’s 100% already guaranteed. I’m going to play a jungle set, techno set, house set, rave set. I’m going to be DJing all night, running from room to room – and I cannot wait.’

The idea was to put out records by people like Truncate, never thinking we’d get someone like Truncate

in and check it out and say, get rid of this or do that – just having that second pair of ears sometimes, even just for an hour, can make you finish tunes or write music differently. So, for me, having a collaborative experience is really beneficial and really important.’ With joint live shows and releases spanning back years, another huge collaborative venture for Eats is the recent launch of EI8HT Records with Andres Campo – a vehicle to ‘put out techno music that we love’, Dan explains. ‘Obviously techno is super popular nowadays, but the techno that’s popular isn’t the techno I really like. I don’t dislike it – I enjoy it, I really do – credit to all the DJs that are doing it, some of them are good friends and they’re smashing it. But Me and Andres like the more groovy stuff. The techno we put out is kind of a hark back to the 90s techno we grew up with, that’s got a bit of soul, a bit of groove and a bit of funk to it. ‘The idea was to put out records by people like Truncate, never thinking we’d get someone like Truncate – who was the fourth release! Having him on the label has propelled it to somewhere where, at this early stage, we never thought we would get to. I’m a big-room kind of DJ and known for being a DJ that plays everything, but Truncate is probably one of, if not the most, respected producers within the techno scene.’ Though his sound has certainly always incorporated many styles within a certain umbrella, he has at times been labelled a house DJ, techno DJ or otherwise. Now, Eats Everything’s sound has become recognisable in itself. When you look back through Eats Everything’s music career, his unique sound begins to distinguish itself all the more clearly. His recent Green Velvet collaboration sounds like some of his earliest stuff, and Lickal Rolla’s title track manages to somehow land slap bang in the middle of his

From ultra-long sets, to intimate chicken shop gigs or his recent Come Rave with Me expedition that saw him connecting with fans on a one-on-one basis at every stop of the tour, it’s glaringly obviously that Eats Everything hasn’t lost a drop of passion for what he does. While he prepares for major sets at Elrow NYC and Warehouse Project this month, Eats Everything will also host his annual Christmas party at Stokes Croft’s more modest Pipe & Slippers on 6 December. ‘Come Rave with Me was a way of connecting with the fans – because I am one of them’ he explains. ‘If I wasn’t on this side of the DJ booth, I would be on the other side. I’m no different from anyone else, I just happen to be fortunate enough to be the one playing the tunes. ‘I get paid to DJ for a living – it’s not hard to be motivated! I’ve got the best job in the world. I get paid a fairly substantial amount of money to do the thing I love the most in the world. ‘I still mix every day, even if it’s only for 10 minutes. It’s my hobby, but it’s my job. I can’t believe I get paid to do this. Even after nine years, I’m still pinching myself. The day that I start being complacent and taking it for granted is probably the day that my career takes a nose dive. ‘I choose to do a free party at the Pipe, because I fucking love it. I’m in town anyway, so we do it every year as a free party. It’s tradition. It’ll be me, Lord Leopard, Ammo and just loads of mates.’

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A DUO WHO HAVE CONQUERED VARIOUS GENRES AND TORE UP VENUES ACROSS THE NATION, BRISTOL’S MY NU LENG KEEP ON PROVING WHY THEY’RE ONE OF THE GENERATION’S BEST.

A household name in the electronic music scene, Tommy and Jammo AKA My Nu Leng have come a long way since making their pilgrimage to Bristol from High Wycombe in order to pursue their music careers. The pair became known for their bass-heavy tracks, punctuated with that darker sound inherent to Bristol producers. 2012’s The Grid announced their arrival to the forefront of the bass music scene, where their upward trajectory continued; with tracks such as Set It and Soul Shake alongside Flava D cementing their headline act status. Having dominated the bass music world in a few short years, in 2017 My Nu Leng surprised fans by releasing an EP on the mighty Shogun Audio, causing the bookings to come thick and fast for drum and bass sets across the country. However, their latest EP release sees My Nu Leng draw elements from their bass music roots, as well as exploring other sounds, from techno to breakbeat. Released on their own Maraki Records, Alter presents my Nu Leng’s most varied body of work to to date.

‘Alter explores some soundtrack sort of ideas and also some techno aspects, but also flows back to our early stuff – maybe like our Horizon EP’ Tommy says. We wanted to do something that flowed as a body of work, rather than single tunes that just work in the club; something that people can listen to all the way through.’ ‘We tried to make sure everything was viable as a standalone unique track, but that they also work together, rather than having just five tunes that are all along the same lines. It was nice to be able to get together a collection of different sounding tracks’ Jammo adds. The variety of genres the duo explore leads to unpredictable and exciting live shows, mixing it up with sets that can travel between 130 and 170 BPM. Over the last few years, the pair have had the privilege of playing some of the most sought-after

sets within their scene, closing sets at Boomtown and Metalheadz at Printworks in London, not to mention their upcoming midnight set for New Year’s Eve at Motion. With these sets being witnessed by hordes of people at some of the most iconic venues and festivals in the country, it wouldn’t be ludicrous for nerves to kick in before hopping onto the decks, but Tommy says that it’s simply something that they relish; adding that preparation is key to those special sets. ‘For me, with big sets such as Boomtown this year, it’s the anticipation more than nerves. You’re just waiting to get up there and start playing; Boomtown this year was one of my career highlights.’ ‘Because we’ve been doing a few old school drum and bass sets for Metalheadz at Printworks and then RTRN II Jungle for Chase and Status, we have to prepare a bit more because there is an obvious theme and subject’ says Jammo. ‘In those sets – the old school drum and bass, for example; we look back through our favourite music and think about what will work on the night. But we also like going into each set with a fresh idea to try and make sure every one has something a little bit different.’ You can expect to hear some of those special sets in the near future, as they embark on another Leng and M8s tour this February, with extended sets and special guests confirmed in cities such as Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, London and Cardiff – with their traditional Bristol secret warehouse rave expected to be announced in due course. Even after five years of the Leng and M8s tour, the pair are still hungry to go again and look for new ways to keep things fresh and authentic every year. ‘For the 2019 tour, we got some extra production to go alongside our press

Words: Brad Penhaligon Photos: Dominika Scheibinger Location: Factory Studios My Nu Leng NYE: 31 December, Motion mynuleng.com @mynuleng

LENG

To be positive and not have any jealousy in this scene will go a long way

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It’s about the music and the natural, raw emotions material and we made sure the narrative about the image and the sounds all looked and felt right’ Tommy explains. ‘Next year we’re going to have extended three-hour sets and then we’re going to have special guests – we’re currently figuring out whether it’s better to announce them or not – and we’ll have residents that are with us for most of the tour as well. ‘I think with people going in and knowing they’re going to see an extended set and an unannounced special guest, it adds to the anticipation of the night, as you don’t know what you’re going to get.’ ‘It’s kind of hard now with touring, because everyone’s doing it’ Jammo says. ‘It can be hard to do something that’s unique. When we started the Leng and M8s shows five years ago, we were trying to get mad backto-backs, which people probably wouldn’t have seen since the big drum and bass days. ‘Lately though, everyone has been doing that, so we’re trying to move away from it and trying to reinvent and do something different. It’s not always easy, but it’s quite nice to have the challenge, because it pushes us.’ My Nu Leng are also tasked with ringing in the New Year at The Blast’s blowout at Motion this NYE, with a midnight set no doubt full of surprises, as the electronic

duo continue to show their versatility and adeptness at packing out a rave. The pair have racked up eight successful years in the industry, where they have built many strong friendships and made the most of the supportive electronic music community. Their strongest relationship, of course, being with Dread MC, who accompanies them for every set. ‘We work with Dread on all of our shows, he’s such a hard worker and we share a lot of support for each other. He’s always supportive of all other artists as well. ‘I think to be positive and not have any jealousy in this scene will go a long way. It will be recognised by everyone if you are a positive figure – that’s what he is and that’s what we aim to be as well,’ they both claim. When asked whether they think all artists share the same principles, Tommy believes that ‘it changes from scene to scene’. ‘The majority of people are in it for the right reasons and not just chasing numbers and popularity. It’s about the music and the natural, raw emotions. That’s why we all go into it in the first place.’ We last spoke to My Nu Leng at the dawn of their label Maraki Records, run in partnership with Friction’s bass-orientated

SPONSORED BY

FineArt alias. Since then, the label has seen releases from the likes of Bushbaby, Bristol’s Notion and Freddie Martin, alongside releases from My Nu Leng and FineArt. The pair say that have enjoyed the added responsibility of co-running a label, which Jammo refers to as a ‘journey’. ‘It has been eye-opening – it’s an extra level of listening to music, because you’re taking it in differently. To put yourself in the consumer’s perspective, rather than the way that you perceive it yourself.’ ‘It’s always been that aspect of quality over quantity with us’ says Tommy. ‘We really analyse all the music we get sent and think about whether it fits on the label. We love pushing music from unheard talents and new acts coming through, like Bushbaby – we wanted to push his music because it’s mind blowing to us. ‘For us, it’s about supporting and giving people a platform as much as we can – just like we were given back in the day.’

+ Almagrey

Tue 10 December from 8pm at The Crofters Rights Bristol. A Gravy Train & BLG presentation, by arrangement with el borracho bookings.

Tickets available from headfirstbristol.co.uk / gravytrainrecordings.co.uk

Kristof Hahn. (Germany) from the legendary band SWANS

Fri 13 December from 7.30pm at Crofters Rights Bristol. A Wizzarding Promotions & BLG presentation, by arrangement with Progressive Artists.

Tickets available from headfirstbristol.co.uk

Win Shindig 2020 tickets + boutique bell tent camping Same party, new digs. Shindig Festival is moving to a new home at Somerset’s Dillington Estate when it returns in May – kicking off the summer with Goldie, Soul II Soul’s Jazzie B and Greg Wilson. Starting out as a party for friends from award-winning record label Ghetto Funk, Shindig has grown into a glorious mashup of music, circus and

comedy. Known for its lovely crowds as much as its eclectic lineup, Shindig is a festival cult favourite. 2020 also marks 10 years of Ghetto Funk Records, meaning an extra special celebration showcasing the best of talent from the label – plus some big special guests – at their beautiful new parkland location.

To celebrate, we’ve teamed up with Shindig Festival to give away a pair of adult tickets, along with boutique bell tent camping for two. To find out more about Shindig 2020, including its new location surrounding a 16th Century house and hotel, visit shindigfestival.co.uk.

ENTER online

For a chance to win, head to nitelifeonline.com/win/shindig2020

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WILKINSON

Words: Alfie House Wilkinson: 7 December, SWX wilkinson-music.com @wilkinsonuk

I’ve always made a sound that lends itself to be played both in clubs and on the radio

Wilkinson’s extensive catalogue of releases spanning the last ten years displays his versatility as a producer, with an unrivalled number of huge commercial hits as well as raveready bangers released on the massive RAM Records. The London producer and DJ has achieved unprecedented success in that time, his debut album Lazers Not Included peaked at two on the UK Dance charts in 2013, before its successor Hypnotic reached pole position after its release four years later. 2019 has flown him all across the world, from South West stages including Tokyo World and Glastonbury, to the likes of Amnesia Ibiza, Czech Republic’s Let It Roll Festival and EDC Las Vegas – and with a mini tour of New Zealand coming up to bring in the New Year, Wilkinson is a truly global name. Speaking to Nitelife ahead of his upcoming SWX show, Wilkinson tells us: ‘2019 has been busy, like every year is at the moment, but it’s been amazing. I had a really busy summer, but it’s going to be good to be back in Bristol. ‘It’s been an amazing year for festivals especially, and I’ve managed to put out a decent amount of music as well, which I’m really happy with. It’s been a busy and productive year.’ 2019 has seen a handful of big Wilkinson projects rear their head, most notably his ongoing collaboration with fellow producer and drum and bass pioneer Nicolaas Douwma, better known as Sub Focus.

The project has seen the two behemoths get in the studio together for a number of tracks including the recently released Illuminate, as well as semi-regularly playing special B2B sets in every corner of the globe – trust me, this project is only just getting started. ‘Me and Sub Focus started working on this project last year, we’ve just written some amazing music, I can’t go into too many details without revealing it, but a lot of great music is to come and I love working with him, he’s a big inspiration of mine. ‘I think for most people who make drum and bass, especially if you came into the scene at a similar sort of time that I did, Sub Focus is a big inspiration. He’s the top guy in the scene and his tunes are amazing. To be able to work with him and get in the studio with him on a regular basis is amazing and I’m really lucky to be able to do it. ‘The first B2B we did was Mutiny festival last year, then Rampage and Glastonbury and they were all amazing, next year we’re definitely going to do more of those. We enjoy playing together and making music, so it’s a great collaborative project. ‘We just put out our first single a few months ago and we’re working on more stuff that I’m hoping will really surprise people.’ Of course, Wilkinson has been smashing his solo material and shows too. His most recent release, Machina, was dropped in October as part of UKF10, the label’s year-long

celebration of bass music culture and ten years of UKF. Described by themselves as ‘a whole year of appreciation for the artists, labels and DJs who have inspired us over the decade’, the RAM Records bass-smith lent his craft to the celebration with a gritty rollers-inspired track. ‘You know, I’ve been trying to work with UKF for a while, they’ve supported me so much over the years, since day one, really. I remember meeting the label’s founder Luke in the real early days. ‘It felt right to make a track and put it out on UKF for their UKF10 compilation. It’s quite a fresh track for me too. After I came back from Glastonbury I was feeling inspired, so I just got into the studio and made the idea. ‘It’s got loads of samples from cars and engines, so it’s something different, something for the dancefloor and something that takes me back to my roots of the harder rollers I used to put out.’ Wilkinson DJ sets are heavy, high-octane, high-energy raves packed with a frantic mix of his own classic tunes and the best in contemporary DnB - but his stunning live show is what keeps the bar raised for his competitors. It’s always an incredible spectacle when DJs bring their performances to life, with a full live band, guest vocalists and state of the art production - Wilkinson Live is absolutely no exception.

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COMBINING HEAVY DRUM AND BASS BEATS WITH POWERFUL SYNTHS AND EMOTIVE VOCALS TO MAKE COLOSSAL DANCEFLOOR TUNES, WILKINSON IS UNDENIABLY ONE OF THIS DECADE’S BIGGEST DANCE MUSIC STARS.

It’s something different, something for the dancefloor and something that takes me back to my roots

Fans at SW4 festival in London were treated to a brand-new show, All For You Live, when he took to the main stage this year, as well as a legendary appearance at O2 Academy Brixton in 2018, and now he’s preparing to roll out another one in the famous venue. ‘Brixton Academy is such an amazing venue that you can have a lot of fun with in terms of the production, so that’s something we’re getting our teeth into at the moment and tickets are flying out. ‘This year we just did one big show in the UK, that was SW4, but I love doing the live show, so next year we’re going to be touring it a little bit more. We’re not sure exactly where yet, but we’ll be announcing more shows next year.’ Taking such a vast amount of time to prepare and coordinate, Wilkinson Live doesn’t frequent stages nearly as often as the DJ set, but that’s part of what makes it so special. ‘Creating the live show is one of the hardest things I’ve done. Because its dance music, in order to make it into a live set up takes loads of work – working out how to get the drums to sound as good as they do on the original track, I’ve got a live guitarist, I play samples and keys myself, and we’ve got all the vocalists coming out too. ‘It’s not as easy as rolling everyone out on stage and winging it, you really have to put in a lot of work to get it to sound so good, because it’s such loud music. But I think we’ve got it down to a T now.’

On stage Wilkinson is strictly business, pumping out show after show, face down into his CDJs or sample pads – it’s not in his nature to slack.

songs. It’s mad, it gets played at weddings and all kinds of places – I’ve had requests from people to edit it for their first dance.

Off stage though, his generic Twitter handle means he holds the mildly amusing accolade of being, probably, the only DJ who receives regular customer complaints and suggestions aimed at a high-street homeware chain.

‘It’s great making music for the dancefloor, when you’re DJing and drop a big tune and it gets a mad reaction, but ultimately over time something new will come along and people will forget about that tune, unless it’s a real classic.

The platinum-single selling artist has a lot of fun with his replies, fully embracing his mistaken identity and firing shots at their supermarket competitors.

‘With music that’s got good lyrics and a good vocalist, a song with an emotive melody to it, it connects to people on an emotional level and you hear these stories of how that tune has affected them or helps them in some way – that’s what keeps us inspired, as artists.’

Stifling a laugh, he told us: ‘Over the years I’ve had the most ridiculous tweets, but it is good fun. I don’t regret my Twitter handle at all, I love it, it’s my name, what can I say?’ For the younger generation of DnB and dance music fans it’s hard to imagine Wilkinson not being a household name. His platinum certified record Afterglow was released on RAM back in October 2013 and took the scene by storm immediately on release, peaking at 8 in the UK Singles Charts, before the release of Lazers Not Included compounded his success later that same month.

Now, the architect behind it all returns to SWX in Bristol this month for his last UK show of 2019, with the promise of big energy, heavy tunes and brand-new Wilkinson music. ‘It’s just a great venue man, definitely one of my favourites. I play quite heavy music so people can come and lose themselves – high energy drum and bass and loads of new music, it just goes off.’

‘I definitely never expected this, it’s one of those things that just randomly happens. Obviously Afterglow did incredibly well, but I’ve always made a sound that lends itself to be played both in clubs and on the radio. ‘Every so often a tune just really connects with people. It just happened that Afterglow became one of those household

behind the scenes with

CAT ROBERTS WITH EXPERIENCE TO OFFER ON ALL SIDES OF THE MUSIC EVENT INDUSTRY, CAT ROBERTS CREATED HER OWN AGENCY – WORKING WITH SOME OF HER FAVOURITE ACTS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE.

Cat Roberts is a recognised powerhouse and prominent name within the music industry. Taking on various roles over the years, Cat has worked as a music programmer, event manager, booking agent, artist liaison and more; giving her a rounded experience and uniquely insightful understanding on how the music industry works – as well as what she had to offer as an individual. This autumn, Cat decided to take a leap and channel her expertise into the launch of her own independent company specialising in artist bookings and event management, On Point Agency. Featuring an extraordinary roster of artists from across the musical spectrum, Cat has created an exciting new agency that everybody is talking about. Nitelife caught up with Cat to talk about the launch of On Point, her remarkable roster, her exciting new role with Boomtown’s Area 404 and what’s in store for On Point Agency in the near future. As we sat down with a drink, Cat talked us through her first experiences working within music and events, which helped her gain the experience and drive to create her own agency. ‘It first started when me and a group of friends, from a rural location with not many places to go, decided to put on parties to give us something to do. We started out putting on our own nights and it quickly turned into putting on events in a field. Not long after that, I became a youth worker in Herefordshire and that’s when I started to do a lot of music youth workshops. ‘Whilst I was a youth worker, I started working with a friend – who I was already doing a radio show with at the time – to take on a couple of acts that we knew on a personal level to do their bookings and a bit of management. ‘I was offered a job as a music programmer for a venue and festival in Hay-on-Wye, and shortly after, a booking agency offered me a role in Bristol. That’s when I switched from being a programmer to booking agent. That was pretty good though, because it meant I had experiences from both sides of the coin.’

Words: Abi Lewis Photos: Martin Thompson @thefacecollective onpointagency.co.uk

behind the scenes

Although Cat continued to flex all her creative music industry muscles through freelance gigs including Boomtown’s mighty Poco Loco, after seven years of working as a full time booking agent by day, Cat felt ready to take the next natural progression in her career and launch her own independent agency, specialising in artist bookings and event management. ‘I want this company to encompass everything I do, where I can have my own network of clients and relationships. My roster is filled with people I have worked with for many years. I work hard for them, they work hard for me and we trust each other. It’s hard to find a good roster, so when you do, it’s important to make it work.’ Taking a moment to remind Cat just how awe-inspiring the selection of artists are within her new Bristol-based agency, from our city’s very own Gardna to Jamaica’s Johnny Osbourne. Plus, the incredible likes of Benjamin Zephaniah and Sister Nancy, along with UK hip hop icons Rodney P, Dr Syntax & Pete Cannon and Dabbla, to name a few; we asked Cat what the On Point roster means to her. ‘I’m really passionate about hip hop and reggae. It is part of your identity as an agent to have a roster that represents specific sounds. If you look at my roster, my passion is my sound. It features a lot of hip hop and reggae, but it also has a pretty varied selection of world music acts and even electro swing acts too. ‘I think it would blow my younger self’s mind if I was able to say who I’d be working with now. I used to study Benjamin Zephaniah at school and listen to Rodney P as a teenager, so to have the chance to work with such big legends – it feels like a real honour and I am so grateful.’ To help Cat firmly mark On Point on the map, Bristol’s iconic graffiti artist Inkie was invited on board to create the agency’s eyecatching artwork. ‘Even though On Point is an international booking agency working with artists from all over the world, this is a Bristol homegrown company and I very much feel like Bristol is my home. I wanted to nod at the Bristol roots of the company and Inkie was the perfect answer. ‘He’s got very recognisable lettering, so I thought it would be amazing to get someone like him to be part of the brand. So far, the whole process of setting up On Point has been very much a family affair and I wanted the artwork to keep in theme with that.’ Along with the exciting launch of her own agency, Cat also recently became a member of Boomtown’s Area 404 family, taking on the role as music manager for their brand new 3,500 capacity Bristol venue. Praised as one of the most ground-breaking venues in the UK right now, you won’t find another venue immersed in theatrics and music at such a high level. ‘As music manager, I will be undertaking all of the production on the artist side, including programming, advancing and backstage. It’s good to have a bit of variety

in life and being an agent seven days a week can be quite challenging, so it’s really nice to have a bit more of a creative role to settle into as well. ‘It’s definitely going to be interesting juggling the agency and this role, but it is such a great opportunity, because they all complement each other and work harmoniously together.’ Somewhat in awe of her grit and determination, we wanted to know what Cat’s advice would be to other people looking to take the next step in their music industry career and go independent: ‘You’ve just got to do it. No regrets. It is always going to be scary doing something new. People don’t like change, but if you don’t do it, you won’t know. I’d rather regret doing something than not doing it.’

Finally, Cat gives us the low-down on what we can look forward to from On Point Agency in the very near future: ‘We have some exciting tours coming up. Rodney P is launching his first album in 10 years in early 2020 on the legendary Tru Thoughts label, so I am really excited to work on that tour. We’ve also had a couple of new signings. We’ve got Mad Professor and Jam Baxter as well, so we will be working on Jam Baxter’s new EP tour in the early part of next year, which will be coming out through High Focus. ‘We’ve also got the really exciting news of some On Point Agency festival takeovers on some major stages next year – so I am super hyped about that. It’s all about getting a bit more creative, putting the programming hat on and getting everyone involved, so we can represent in full force.’

20 questions

Mosh pits - yay or nay?

with

Toodles & the Hectic Pity Toodles & the Hectic Pity are lead vocals and guitarist Callum McAllister, bassist Max Cole and drummer Dom Mosley – with a medley of more unusual instruments between them, from a melodica to pizza boxes. Firm friends from school, they initially came together as a band to play the inaugural Inglefest, so it’s fitting that their first gig following the announcement of forthcoming EP Ghosts, Guilt and Grandparents is the Somerset festival’s Christmas party at Exchange, Jinglefest – with a full UK tour to follow in March.

Which song by another artist most inspires you?

The EP’s lead single is live show (and band tee) favourite Ducks, which drops 3 December and delivers a great insight into what this hard-working band have achieved in a few short years.

I’m fairly sure the first piece of music I bought was an AC/DC album. I don’t remember which one, but I knew I wanted one and so asked my dad to take me to HMV and bought whichever one was cheapest. Still a sucker for them.

This sounds judgmental (it isn’t), but I’m not much of a binge watcher. When I watch TV, it’s more often films than TV series, and then it’s an episode at a time kind of thing. Right now I’m watching the BBC’s His Dark Materials adaptation as it comes out every Sunday, which is great. The books are fantastic and this is thus far doing them justice.

Most recent?

Life motto?

Waxahatchee’s Cerulean Salt. Absolute cracker of an album.

I think that most mottos have to have a bit of nuance to make any sense — which makes them a lot less catchy. But one thing I do live by is putting your own self-care over other people’s expectations of you. Don’t neglect your friends or anything, but if you need a bath and an early night and that means you’ve gotta miss a show, that’s just sometimes what you got to do. And I do that quite a lot. A lot of times that’s not the best advice, but you’ve just got to know yourself and know what makes you able to get through the week. So in that case the motto would be ‘Never feel FOMO again.’

Two years on from their Call in Sick EP, Toodles & the Hectic Pity have left behind their acoustic remit; with more reverb, fewer finger plucking sections and a healthy dollop of catchy pop hooks in the mix to refine their emotive, folk punk sound. With doses of emo and uplifting conveyed in every breath, Toodles & the Hectic Pity are here to make you feel something. Between singalong-ready anthems and longer, more introspective ballads, the five-track EP feels like it’s over all too soon and leaves us hungry for more. Toodles & The Hectic Pity have supported Jake (Callum’s brother) and the Jellyfish on tour, Ducking Punches and are a mainstay of DIY punk all dayers, but they’re clearly ready for their moment in the limelight. Frontman Callum answers our 20 questions – Who are your top three acts right now? I’m getting pretty obsessed with Garden Centre’s new LP, A Moon for Digging, out from Specialist Subject a month or so ago. Haven’t seen them live yet, but can’t wait to. Dom’s new project INTOKU are a really impressive band and an absolute pleasure to watch live. They’re nothing at all like us or what I’d usually listen to, but they’re a really unique addition to the Bristol music scene. They’ll be playing alongside us at Jinglefest in a couple of weeks. A band I can’t wait to see again is Katie Ellen. I saw them touring with WOAHNOWS earlier in the year and they were absolutely phenomenal. They need to come back to the UK soon as.

I saw The Mountain Goats live for the first time a few days ago and I think that basically any song they’ve ever written really just lights that spark of inspiration in the dusty back corners of my brain. They just manage to get down to the real emotional core of a song and do it with deceptively simple lyrics and instrumentation. First piece of music you bought?

Who is or was the most underrated artist, in your opinion? I think Sincere Engineer deserve a lot more attention right now. Their LP Rhombithian is an absolute pop punk masterpiece from start to finish. You’re at a house party and no one is dancing. What’s your favourite floor filler? I’m not much of a house party person, but if I was I’d be putting on the song Walking in Memphis. Or anything by Martha. As a child, what did you want to be when you grow up? As boring as it sounds, I did actually want to be an author from a really young age. Me and my sister were both big fantasy nuts as children (still are too — her more so than me). We spent a lot of our time growing up together planning our future novels. At a certain point in my early teens I decided that this wasn’t a very cool thing to want to be, so I ditched the french horn and learned the guitar and said I wanted to be a ‘rock star’, which is much more embarrassing. What was the last book you read? The last book I finished was a book of essays called It Gets Me Home, This Curving Track by Ian Penman, out from Fitzcarraldo Editions. For the most part, the essays centre around iconic black musicians. I learned quite a lot, but for me the style of writing was a bit dry and to be honest, when it comes to books,

Words: Rachel Morris Photos: @thefotomatic Toodles & the Hectic Pity: 14 December – Jinglefest, Exchange toodlesandthehecticpity.bandcamp.com @TheHecticPity

I’m a bit of a style-over-substance person. Right now I’m reading a few things, including In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin, which is brilliant, and a collection of short stories by Argentinian writer Silvina Ocampo, which is a perfect autumnal read. Super weird and creepy. Most recent binge watch?

20 questions

It’s a nay from me. People can do what they want though — I’ll just stand at the back and enjoy from there. What do you want most for Christmas? Pants, socks and a new jumper. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? Not sure it’s advice, but it was actually a friend of ours, the organiser of Inglefest, who suggested the three of us start a band. And ‘start a band with some friends’ is really good advice. With the right people it can be a really satisfying collaborative project and a personal, visceral outlet for the soul. It gets the endorphins flowing. You meet people. It’s a lot of fun and can seem pretty daunting, but there’s lots of resources out there, including Eat Up! for starters, which runs workshops for newcomers with the aim of promoting diversity and inclusivity in the Bristol music scene. Honestly, if you’ve never picked up an instrument before, that doesn’t mean you can’t make music. Tell us something people don’t generally know about you... I was a pretty decent french horn player at school, which I gave up because I thought it wasn’t very cool and because my tutor wasn’t a very nice man. Which is to say that an unpleasant teacher can really kill young people’s enthusiasm for something. My guitar tutor was a much nicer dude and all he cared about was that I was learning something and enjoying myself and getting what I wanted from the lessons. The french horn teacher was more concerned about us meeting the curriculum than enjoyment or nurturing enthusiasm or skill. Our main fall out was that I didn’t find reading music very easy, even though I could play things by ear pretty easily. Everyone learns differently and everyone comes to music from a different way. So being prescriptive about it is very unhelpful. What is your oldest possession?

Both. But coffee is the fave.

I was given a cuddly toy rabbit when I was still in an incubator as a wee baby — which is still at my parents’ place. He was called Cat. The oldest possession I have that I still keep in my house is my acoustic guitar. It’s totally beaten up and has had more work done on it than it’s actually is worth, but it’s just become a sentimental thing for me. It’s really light and easy to play and if it ain’t (very) broke, then don’t fix it — which is why I still haven’t bought an electric.

Favourite season?

What are you doing tomorrow?

That specific time in autumn when it’s acceptable to break out the scarf and gloves.

I’ll be working at Exchange in the morning. The rest of my time right now is going into organising 2020 shows for our next record, which is going to be released in February by Specialist Subject Records. It’s been an absolute labour of love on these songs and we’re just finishing up the final touches in terms of artwork and release plans. That’s occupying all of our thoughts right now and I can’t wait until it’s just out in the world for people to hear.

Spirit animal? Urban fox. Solitary, or so it seems. Moves around quietly. Lives out of the bins. Tea or coffee?

Pet peeve? I’ve worked as a bookseller for the last few years and I think my biggest pet peeve is when people ask whether a newly released book is in paperback yet. To be fair to the general public, not a lot of people know that in publishing hardbacks come out first, with paperbacks following a year or so later. So it’s a little unfair for me to find it annoying, but when you get asked the same thing all the time it eventually starts to wind you up! A more rational pet peeve is people who refer to their female partners as ‘the missus’. People who do this are rarely doing this in a complimentary or respectful way.

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LIVE GUIDE VENUES

51 STOKES CROFT 42 O2 ACADEMY 43 BAMBALAN 44 THE CANTEEN 45 COLSTON HALL 46 THE CROFTERS RIGHTS 47 EXCHANGE 48 THE FLEECE 49 FULL MOON & ATTIC BAR 50 THE GALLIMAUFRY 51 THE LANES 52 MOTION & MARBLE FACTORY 53 MR WOLFS 54 THE OLD MARKET ASSEMBLY 55 SWX 56 THEKLA 57 TO THE MOON 58 TRINITY 59

51 stokes croft Instagram @51stokescroft // facebook.com/51stokescroft 51 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3QP // 01179 148 048 // 51stokescroft.com

From the same team behind Mr Wolfs, No.51s showcases a funkier genre, with disco, house, techno, breakbeat and general rhythms that lead to the dancefloor taking the bulk of their events. That’s not to say you won’t find the occasional live offering or open mic night. No.51s hides a very decent beer garden out back and regularly makes use of it with day and night parties through the year. They’ve also earned a reputation as one of the best pizza spots in town, with a wood-fired pizza oven on site and a creative kitchen team. A great spot all week for drinks, dancing and good vibes.

December Highlights

BOXING DAY PARTY

NEW YEARS EVE DISCO BALL

26 Dec // 9pm - 2am // Free

31 Dec // 9pm – 4am // £5

Head to No. 51s to nurse your Christmas hangover, with pizza and cocktails being served all day, as well as plenty of Christmas joy left over to spread.

You are truly spoilt for New Years Eve options this year as DJ Alfie will be spinning disco classics all night long. With £5 entry before 10pm, head down early to avoid missing out on the fun.

02 academy

Instagram @o2academybris // facebook.com/o2academybristol Frogmore Street, Bristol, BS1 5NA // 0117 927 9227 // o2academybristol.co.uk

A classic live venue, O2 Academy Bristol is designed entirely around what’s happening on stage. They recently refitted their sound desk to ensure perfect acoustics whether you’re in the mosh pit or the balcony – they even offer double pints at the bar, so you won’t need to return during a gig. As well hosting major touring acts, the venue is a key stop off point for artists on their way up, with early shows from the likes of Kings of Leon and Kendrick Lamar. After curfew, the venue can transform into a club, hosting regular student nights, as well as special one-offs, such as Kisstory or grime epic Eskimo Dance.

December Highlights

SCOUTING FOR GIRLS

CRAIG CHARLES FUNK CHRISTMAS PARTY

10 Dec // 7pm – 10pm // £25

21 Dec // 9pm – 3am // £15.50

This one’s sure to take you back to your school days, as Scouting for Girls head to Bristol as part of their tour following the release of Trouble With Boys, but be sure to hear classics such as She’s So Lovely.

One of the best places to be in the week leading up to Christmas. The legend Craig Charles delivers a selection of the funkiest beats that the whole family can get down to. Be sure to also see the live performance from funk & soul band Daytoner.

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

Sun 1st Dec

Sun 26th Jan 2020

Fri 20th Mar 2020 • 6pm

J.I.D.

Krept & Konan

The Subways

Tue 3rd Dec • SOLD OUT

Mon 27th Jan 2020

Mon 23rd Mar 2020

Sigrid

Caravan Palace

Cigarettes After Sex

Wed 4th Dec • SOLD OUT

Wed 29th Jan 2020

Sam Fender

Ashanti & Ginuwine

Thur 5th Dec • SOLD OUT

Sat 1st Feb 2020 • 10pm

Aitch

Innovation

Fri 6th Dec • 6.30pm • SOLD OUT

Sun 2nd Feb 2020

D Block Europe

Kano

Sat 7th Dec

Tue 4th Feb 2020

Aldous Harding

The Interrupters

Sun 8th Dec

Wed 5th Feb 2020

Donell Jones & Next

Steel Panther

Mon 9th Dec • 6pm

Mon 10th Feb 2020

Dan Reed Network / Gun / FM

The HU Mon 24th Feb 2020

Tue 10th Dec

Beartooth

Scouting for Girls

Thur 27th Feb 2020

Thur 12th Dec • 6pm

The Wonder Stuff

Hot 8 Brass Band Tue 3rd Mar 2020

Fri 13th Dec

Testament

The Chats

Thur 5th Mar 2020

Sat 14th Dec

Motionless in White

Example Fri 6th Mar 2020

Sun 15th Dec

Oh Wonder

SLADE

Sun 8th Mar 2020

Mon 16th Dec • SOLD OUT

Sisters Of Mercy

The Libertines

Thur 12th Mar 2020

Wed 18th Dec

Stiff Little Fingers

Shed Seven

Fri 13th Mar 2020 • SOLD OUT

Fri 20th Dec • 6.30pm

Alabama 3 Sat 21st Dec • 9pm

Craig Charles Funky Christmas Party

Tue 24th Mar 2020

Ash Sat 28th Mar 2020

I Prevail Thur 2nd Apr 2020 • 6pm

Roachford Sat 4th Apr 2020 • 10pm

Hybrid Minds Mon 6th Apr 2020

Caribou Fri 17th Apr 2020 • 6.30pm

Lioness ... A.K.A The Amy Winehouse Experience Tue 21st Apr 2020

Lamb of God Tue 5th May 2020

The Mission Thur 21st May 2020

Brian Fallon & The Howling Weather Sat 13th Jun 2020 • 6.30pm

WAR Wed 17th Jun 2020 • 5.30pm

Volbeat Thur 8th Oct 2020

Scott Bradlee’s Post Modern Juke Box

Sat 14th Mar 2020

Fri 6th Nov 2020 • 6.30pm

The Dualers

Soul II Soul

Thur 19th Mar 2020

Fri 4th Dec 2020 • 6.30pm

Lightning Seeds

Heaven 17

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

December • 2019

Bambalan

Instagram @bambalanbristol // facebook.com/bambalanbristol Podium Level, Colston Tower, Colston Street, Bristol, BS1 4XE // @bambalanbristol // 0117 922 1880 // bambalan.co.uk

Arguably the best roof terrace in Bristol, Bambalan boasts amazing views over the city with resident DJs regularly pumping out tunes from the rooftop DJ booth. Bambalan’s music policy is funk, soul, house and disco – which matches their upbeat, good time attitude. As well as a delicious North African kitchen menu, Bambalan’s bar stocks a selection craft beers, ciders and happy hour cocktails, and is probably the best place in Bristol to get an Aperol Spritz. Bambalan boasts plenty of inside and outside space, plus table football and table tennis on the balcony.

December Highlights

TERRACE SESSIONS

STUDIO 54 NYE

Weekly // 5pm – 10pm // Free

31 Dec // 7pm – 2am // £10

Every Friday and Saturday throughout December, Bambalan residents will be taking over the terrace for a rooftop party. Their music policy is funk, soul, house and disco, so be ready to boogie.

N OPE R Y

G ISTO O O L F D O AW O AR D DS

E E V D AY

EAT, DRINK & DANCE

Catch Bristol’s best DJs on Bambalan’s roof terrace every Friday and Saturday

bambalan.co.uk

bambalanbristol @bambalanbristol WANT TO JUST PARTY?

@bam_ba_lan

01 TM 8 ED IT E WIN RR N E ANEAN R

BES

A disco utopia at Bambalan as the club will be theming their night on the iconic New York club Studio 54. Head down early for a delicious feast or show up late and boogie until the early hours.

the canteen

Instagram @canteenbristol // facebook.com/thecanteenbristol Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY // 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. One of the only spaces in Bristol offering live, free music every day of the week, The Canteen offers a varied program of live music and DJs lovingly curated by the Ear Trumpet Music crew. Expect folk, jazz and acapella ensembles during the week, with things ramping up from Thursday to Saturday, when you should come prepared to sweat it out on the dancefloor. Alongside a great bar selection, the kitchen offers a range of locally sourced food, with vegetarian, gluten free and vegan options.

December Highlights

LADY NADE

CAPTAIN JAMAICA & THE MELLOTONES

3 Dec // 9:30pm – 12:30am // Free

14 Dec // 9:30pm – 12:30am // Free

The Bristolian Singer-Songwriter has a habit of producing music that touches your heart with a mix of soulful experimental folk-jazz pop. She heads to The Canteen following the release of her album Safe Place.

A night of heavyweight reggae from BackBeat soundsystems Captain Jamaica and his band The Mellotones. They bring to you their own arrangements of reggae classics as well as some original material to boot.

Sun 1: Tom Moore & Archie Moss

Mon 16: Canteen Latin Session

Mon 2: Canteen Jazz Session

Tue 17: Mark J. Lee

Tue 3: Lady Nade

Wed 18: JP3

Wed 4: Simon Panrucker & Bandrucker Thur 5: Shama Rahman

Thur 19: Medicine Creek Fri 20: Peanut Shuffle Club

Fri 6: Brass Junkies

Sat 21: Cable Street Collective

Sat 7: The Trouble Notes/The Good Habits

Sun 22: Riaan Vosloo’s Uphill Game

Sun 8: Los Clandestinos

Mon 23: Slim’s Blues & Roots Session

Mon 9: DeCyphers Hip Hop Session Tue 10: Marie Lister & James Ladd Wed 11: Pet Yeti

Tue 24: Closed Wed 25: Closed Thur 26: Closed

Thur 12: Prudent Primate

Fri 27: Hiphopapotamus & Ru Robinson’s Xmas Gooch

Fri 13: Contraband Breaks Ensemble

Sat 28: Razzomo

Sat 14: Captain Jamaica & The Mellotones

Sun 29: The Sounds of Ursa Mon 30: Snazzback Party Bag

Sun 15: Presidents of Parp canteenbristol.co.uk * The Canteen, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY

Colston hall Presents Instagram @colstonhall // facebook.com/ColstonHall Colston Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR // 0117 203 4040 // colstonhall.org

While Colston Hall undergoes a £50m major redevelopment to transform the 150-yearold hall into a world class venue, the Colston Hall Presents series sees Bristol’s largest concert venue take flight across the city. Making use of a multitude of independent venues and spaces, Colston Hall are continuing to deliver a diverse programme of events from classical music to alternative rock. From the biggest names in the business to the most obscure, the Colston Hall team aim to push boundaries and keep us on our toes, with something on offer almost every night of the week.

December Highlights CITY OF THE SUN

JESSE MARCHANT

City of the Sun features guitarists John Pita, Avi Snow, and percussionist Zach Para. The band’s sound has an array of influences including indie rock, American folk, flamenco, and blues. They head on tour following the release of Chapter I.

A Swiss-Canadian songwriter with tales of heartbreak and pain, he shares his new album Illusions of Love, full of beautiful tracks with incredible subtleties. Balancing a vivid new sound with mature control and rootedness.

9 Dec // 7:30pm – 10:30pm // £12 // Exchange

11 Dec // 7.30pm - 10.30pm // £10 The Louisiana

book

0117 203 4040 colstonhall.org

Colston Hall loudly and proudly presents great shows in venues across Bristol Wed 4 Dec

Tue 4 Feb

Sun 8 Mar

Richard Spaven

Georgie

Colston Hall Foyer

The Crofters Rights

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

Fri 6 Dec

Thu 6 Feb

Bristol Folk House

Penelope Isles

Anna Meredith

Sun 15 Mar

Rough Trade Bristol

Trinity

Yorkston Thorne Khan

Mon 9 Dec

Fri 7 Feb

City Of The Sun

Sean McConnell

Exchange

The Crofters Rights

Tue 17 Mar

Wed 11 Dec

Wed 12 Feb

CocoRosie

Jesse Marchant

Yacht

The Louisiana

Exchange

Fri 20 Mar

Sun 15 Dec

Tue 18 Feb

Ziggy Alberts

Trinity

SWX

Pram

Daddy Long Legs

The Louisiana

Sat 21 Mar

Mon 16 Dec

Fri 21 Feb

Princess Nokia The Marble Factory

Vetiver

HMLTD

Rough Trade Bristol

Exchange

Sat 21 Mar

Sun 19 Jan

Sun 23 Feb

Andy Shauf Fiddlers

The East Pointers

Damien Jurado

Bristol Folk House

St George’s Bristol

Sun 22 Mar

Wed 29 Jan

Wed 26 Feb

Fly Pan Am

KOKOROKO

A Winged Victory for the Sullen

Colston Hall Foyer

Trinity

Richard Dawson

Trinity Fri 31 Jan

David Wax Museum Bristol Folk House

Bristol Folk House

Sun 29 Mar Trinity

the crofters rights Instagram @Crofters_Rights // facebook.com/croftersrights 117-119 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RW // 0117 2310 079 // croftersrights.co.uk

Situated in the heart of Stokes Croft, Crofters’ back room hosts everything from punk gigs to storytelling, comedy to experimental noise. Their music programme veers towards the underground and obscure, and hosts regular takeovers from some of Bristol’s best promoters. Open late every Friday and Saturday, the seperate bar area boasts an ever changing list of 17 keg and cask, draught beers and ciders. You can expect anything from tropical dance music to heavier house, techno, drum and bass and grime events, and their giant mirror ball attracts a good few disco nights too.

December Highlights

JERRY + BIRDMAN CULT + DROOGS

CUT THROAT FRANCIS

19 Dec // 7pm – 10:30pm // £3

29 Dec // 7:30pm – 11pm // £5

Jerry have established themselves in the growing post-punk scene by playing alongside bands such as DUDS, Autobahn, Rapid Tan and Haze. They will be supported by Bristol 5-piece Birdman Cult, with melodic, Punked up Rock and Roll to soothe the soul.

A Bristol based Balkan swing band, with tongue in cheek songs about failing to be successful, responsible grown-ups on folk instruments; sometimes in swing rhythms, and mostly with upbeat Eastern European flavours.

exchange

Instagram @exchangebristol // facebook.com/exchangebristol 72 - 73 Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0EJ // 0117 930 4538 // exchangebristol.com

A versatile 250 capacity space offering an adventurous music programme up to seven nights a week. As well as hosting performances from internationally-revered artists, this venue is a key incubator of local talent. At the start of 2019, Exchange became Bristol’s first community-owned venue, run by its members. During the daytime, the space is open as a coffee shop, vegan kitchen and record shop (owned and operated by Specialist Subject Records). Exchange has a punk spirit at its core and delivers one of Bristol’s most diverse music programmes, bringing in some of the best boundary-pushing music across all genres.

December Highlights

JINGLEFEST

VERB T & PITCH 92

14 Dec // 2pm – 11pm // £12

17 Dec // 7pm – 11pm // £15

Got the winter blues after Inglefest? Well then Jinglefest will be sure to lift your spirits. With 2 stages, 13 bands and a cracking lineup of local acts, head down to Exchange for an early Christmas feast.

Four Owls and original High Focus member Verb T teams up with producer Pitch 92 for another Bristol showcase. They have joined forces on two albums Good Evening, and the latest A Question of Time, which was produced with live shows in mind.

THe fleece

Instagram @fleecebristol // facebook.com/fleecebristol 12 St. Thomas Street, Bristol, BS1 6JJ // 0117 945 0996 // thefleece.co.uk

Steeped in local history, The Fleece has been a vital part of Bristol’s music scene since 1982. The grade II listed building has hosted many music legends on its stage, including Jeff Buckley, Radiohead, Oasis, Muse, Amy Winehouse, Queens Of The Stone Age and Ed Sheeran. The Fleece offers music seven nights a week, with live gigs from major touring artists as well as up-and-comings, a range of tribute acts, and regular clubnights. The 450-capacity venue has one of the best stage views around, whether you prefer to stand at the back or at the barrier; as well as a perfect dancefloor for clubnights.

December Highlights

THE BLUE AEROPLANES

BAD MANNERS

8 Dec // 7pm – 11pm // £18

26 Dec // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50

An art‐rock institution acknowledged as an influence on REM, Radiohead and countless 80’s/90’s post-punk/ alternative bands. The band juggle many responsibilities such as running The Fleece, and inspiring a new wave of artists at BIMM, but still find the time to put on a show.

A Christmas tradition that never disappoints year in, year out. Bad Manners head to The Fleece again for another Boxing Day bash as a part of their tour with Buster Bloodvessel. It promises to be a jolly one.

THE FULL MOON & ATTIC BAR Instagram - @thefullmoonbristol // facebook.com/thefullmoonandatticbar 1 North Street, Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3PR // 01179 245 007 // fmbristol.co.uk

This Stokes Croft hub presents a triplepronged attack, with a pop-up outdoor stage, DJs in the Full Moon pub and live action in Attic Bar. Musically, you’ll find a slight bias towards more sun-soaked sounds like dub and reggae, though you never know what you’ll find when you walk through Attic Bar’s doors. As well as curating their own impressive music calendar, Attic Bar also hosts regular takeovers from the likes of Tun Up! and AFT Records. Their annual Yard Party is one of the first and best events in the summer calendar, making great use of their huge courtyard.

December Highlights

BORN ON ROAD 010

TALISMAN

5 Dec // 8:30pm – 2am // £4

7 Dec // 8:30pm – 2am // £4

A double birthday bash as resident Kelvin 373 celebrates another year, as well as Born on Road also celebrating a year to the day since they started these events. A huge lineup is in attendance so be sure to join the drum and bass festivities.

VP PRODUCTIONS PRESENT

DESIGN: INKIE

A night of jazz infused reggae in the Attic as Talisman heads up a tasty lineup. The group are back together after 30 years apart to support the re-release of their classic roots single Dole Age. With support from Dr Gaffa and DJ Guy.

the gallimaufry

Instagram @thegallibristol // facebook.com/TheGallimaufryBristol 26-28 The Promenade, Gloucester Road, BS7 8AL // 01179 42 7 319 // thegallimaufry.co.uk

Gloucester Road’s unofficial hub for innovative jazz, The Galli hosts weeknight residencies from two brilliant jazzorientated, technically-gifted improv groups: Waldo’s Gift Trio and Snazzback. Between them, they offer a combination of hip hop, afro funk, jazz, math and electronica. Friday and Saturday nights bring a selection of DJs and dancing until 1am, while the rest of week is reserved for wide range of carefully-considered live music in a relaxed setting. Entry is always free and you’ll find art and installations from Bristol creatives to enjoy throughout the venue.

December Highlights

WALDO’S GIFT REWORKS ASTRAL WEEKS

FEEL FLOWS NEW YEAR’S EVE

18 Dec // 9pm – 11pm // Free

31 Dec // 9pm – 3am // Free

Waldo’s Gift are joined by Pete Cunningham to rework the sounds of Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks. Featuring James Vine on drums, Harry Stoneham on bass and Alun Elliot-Williams on guitar.

Welcome in 2020 at The Gallimaufry with two of Bristol’s most revered selectors Marlon Clark & Kiia with the tables being cleared and an extra soundsystem being added, make sure to bring your dancing shoes.

DECEMBER thegallimaufry.co.uk

every single night

MONDAY

FRIDAY

Hosted by Mike Dennis

Hosted by Manami & Neathway 6th Chiv 13th Sam Bhok (Worldwide FM / Stay Put) 20th Ellie Stokes (Noods / Motion) 27th Manami & Neathway

Open Mic TUESDAY

Galli Live

3rd Lewis Creaven’s Dharma Blues 10th The Guy Calhoun Band 17th Seedling Sessions w/ Klaus Shnopplejagen & Betty Jasmine TBC

WEDNESDAY

Waldo’s Gift

Hip-hop, math, jazz & electronica 4th Synesthesia 11th Open Collaboration 18th Reworks: Astral Weeks ft Pete Cunningham (Ishmael)

THURSDAY

Snazzback

Afro-funk & psych-jazz 5th presents Hippo EP Launch 12th Full band 19th Beat Tape 26th presents Gideon Conn

DJS

Feel Flows

GALLI NYE free entry

Feel Flows

3am licence

Chiv & Neathway Marlon Clark (Albeit Records) Kiia (Cue)

SATURDAY

DJS

Satta Lites

Withdrawn, VMO$ & guests play beats, bumps & bass 7th Simiah (King Underground) 14th Overseer 21st Ella-Sian (Peachin) 28th Frankie Downbeat (Downbeat Melody)

SUNDAY

1st Sydney Sessions 8th Phantom Ensemble 15th Chicken Picnic 22nd The Pocket Sessions Hosted by Ruth Royall

the lanes

Instagram @thelanesbristol // facebook.com/lanes.bristol 22 Nelson Street, Bristol, BS1 2LE // 01173 251 979 // thelanesbristol.co.uk

Set within a ten-pin bowling lane, The Lanes is a popular club night venue – particularly for those with an emo streak, as the home of Fat Lip clubnights and festival. Bands also regularly grace The Lanes stage and the venue works closely with a number of great local promoters, including BLG and Gravy Train. The Lanes’ Saturday night Department S events offer a gig-to-club experience, with live music from local and touring bands precursing a night of indie, rock and roll, and soul from John the Mod. Not forgetting round the clock bowling, karaoke and pool tables.

December Highlights

THE HOUSE PARTY PROJECT

REGGAETON

4 Dec // 11pm – 3am // £6

20 Dec // 10:30pm – 3am // £4 – £6

Following 2 sold out shows, the hip hop and disco night returns for one more before the end of the year. With resident DJs spinning some old school classics, expect a party atmosphere all night long.

The Latin fever returns at The Lanes as the Reggaeton party are in town, catch them there on the third Friday of every month. Expect other genres such as hip hop and rnb for a spicy fiesta.

Motion & Marble Factory Instagram @motionbristol // facebook.com/motionbristol 74-78 Avon St, Bristol, BS2 0PX // motionbristol.com

Voted the world’s 11th Best Club, Motion has been the lifeblood of Bristol’s underground club scene since 2006. Encompassing the Motion warehouse and Marble Factory, the complex is a labyrinth of interconnecting indoor and outdoor spaces. This gives the Motion team a unique ability to offer intimate or immense shows. Bringing in the world’s biggest underground artists, as well as providing a platform for local and emerging talent; Motion offers a true, warehouse clubbing experience in a space that somehow feels as intimate as it is cavernous. A pilgrimage destination for music lovers across the globe.

ALAN FITZPATRICK PRESENTS WE ARE THE BRAVE A label showcase and another big fixture in this years In:Motion series; Catch two legendary DJs Alan Fitzpatrick and Skream go back to back, as well as sets from wAFF, Eli Brown and Natasha for an awesome night of house.

7 Dec // 10pm – 6am // £26.50

December Highlights

THE BLAST NYE

A wicked night guaranteed as My Nu Leng take control for a special midnight set, with Performances from Darkzy and Window Kid, as well as S.P.Y in attendance to see out 2019 with the finest in bass heavy sounds.

31 Dec // 9pm – 5am // £33.50

MOTIONBRISTOL.COM

motion & the marble factory, 74-78 Avon St, Bristol, BS2 0PX

mr wolf’s

Instagram @mrwolfsbristol // facebook.com/MrWolfs 32 St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1TG // 0117 923 2565 // mrwolfs.com

Open seven nights a week, Mr Wolf’s has one of the sweatiest dancefloors in town. With closing hours ranging from 2.30am up to 4am on weekends, Mr Wolf’s packs in a huge number of live music, open mic nights, live jams and DJs. An avid supporter of local talent, as well as from further afield, Mr Wolf’s is a great place to discover new bands and artists of every genre. The big brother of 51 Stokes Croft, this family-run venue has a dedicated team behind it, who are committed to furthering the local music scene.

December Highlights

BASS CHOIR

THE HUCKLEBUCK

7 Dec // 9pm – 12am // £3 – £4

13 Dec // 9pm – 12pm // £3 – £4

A unique showing of dnb, UK garage and 15 strong harmonies accompanied by an MC, but with the added surprise of a live band in support. Bass Choir have been tipped as one of Bristols best up and coming groups.

The Hucklebuck are a five-piece band who put their own print on traditional electric styles, from early jump blues to later Texas and Chicago material, all played with real authenticity and swing.

the old market assembly

Instagram @oldmarketassembly // facebook.com/oldmarketassembly 25 West Street, Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0DF // 0117 373 8199 // oldmarketassembly.co.uk

Situated in the heart of one of Bristol’s most up-and-coming nightlife hubs, The Old Market Assembly is an independent arts venue and restaurant hosting everything from local bands to wild parties with touring artists. Proudly associated with the LGBTQ+ scene, Old Market Assembly was the first venue in Bristol to sign up for the ‘Zero Tolerance’ campaign, committing to provide a safe, respectful space for anyone and everyone. With live music, DJs and cabaret every week, you can look to Old Market Assembly for some of the best in world music, hip hop and funk, ska, drag shows and more.

December Highlights

CAMO CLAVE

WASABI

An electro-tropical band who combine traditional Latin American rhythms with synthesizers and other effects. They guarantee an exciting and energetic party with rumba and reggae with strong hints of dub and electro.

A hectic group of 9 Bristol-based musicians, bringing jazz, psychedelic guitar and brass for a spicy sounding treat that will combine high energy and a high degree of musicianship.

13 Dec // 10pm – 2am // Free

20 Dec // 10pm - 1am // Free

BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED

THE OLD MARKET ASSEMBLY PRESENTS

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS FROM 10PM TIL LATE AT THE OLD MARKET ASSEMBLY

D E C E M B E R

L I S T I N G S

ALL EVENTS THIS MONTH ARE FREE ENTRY

BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED

BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED

BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED BLEED

SWX

Instagram @swxbristol // facebook.com/swxbristol 15 Nelson Street, Bristol, BS1 2JY // 0117 945 0325 // swxbristol.com

SWX is Bristol’s largest city centre venue and hosts many of the biggest names coming through the city, from black metal bands to US rappers. With a state of the art sound and lighting system, the venue lives up to the high calibre of artists gracing its stage. SWX features an enclosed dancefloor for the more committed audience members, as well as raised platforms for those preferring a view over proximity. SWX is also home to two of the biggest student nights in Bristol. Codec and Farfetched integrate live performance from some of the industry’s biggest artists with three rooms of music and drinks deals.

December Highlights

MARK LANEGAN

KISSTORY NYE

11 Dec // 7pm – 11pm // £22.50

31 Dec // 9:30pm – 4am // £11 – £22

Lanegan’s work tells its own stories and weaves its own wonders. From Washington D.C, the alternative singer/ songwriter appears in Bristol following the release of Somebody’s Knocking, which reached 14th on the US billboards.

Some absolute anthems will be on show at SWX as the likes of Sweet Female Attitude, DJ Policy and DJ Pioneer take control of your New Years Eve celebrations and see out your year with nostalgic classics.

thekla

Instagram @theklabris // facebook.com/theklabristol The Grove, Bristol, BS1 4RB // 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 toetapping Americana to hard-hitting house and techno, Thekla delivers an eclectic music programme covering all bases. As well as hosting major touring acts, Thekla is a champion of up and coming talent and has a knack for catching on to a good thing; with early shows from the likes of Mumford and Sons and Calvin Harris. With passionate crew members looking after both the live and club side of things, Thekla continues to be one of Bristol’s favourite venues, for nearly every genre.

December Highlights

INTRIGUE X SPACE CADET: LSB & DRS

OFF ME NUT XMAS

6 Dec // 10pm – 4am // £14

20 Dec // 10pm – 4am // £11

Drum and Bass heavyweight LSB and Manchester MC DRS rock the boat for the launch of their new LP The Blue Hour. They are accompanied by a wealth of talent such as Dogger & Mindstate with Liam Bailey on live vocals.

The crew head back to their favourite city for another night of carnage, with sets from happy hardcore legend Scott Brown, Phatworld, Ben Suff Donk and Dr Oscillator that will kick off your Christmas celebrations like no other.

01.12.19

11.01.20

MEMPHIS MAY FIRE

HEATHER FINDLAY

02.12.19

BAND OF SKULLS 04.12.19

JINJER 05.12.19

SAN HOLO 07.12.19

17.01.20

BOARDS OF CANADA PLAYED BY BYRON WALLEN’S GAMALAN ENSEMBLE 19.12.19

WASUREMONO

CHASE RICE

10.12.19

21.01.19

RA RA RIOT

BLACK COUNTRY, NEW ROAD

11.12.19

ENVY

25.01.20

HOT SNAKES

THE MILK CARTON KIDS

14.12.19

26.01.20

13.12.19

HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER

INSOMNIUM 28.01.20

TWIN TEMPLE

15.12.19

KOSHEEN

30.01.20

UNCLE FRANK

16.12.19

RUSS MB

31.01.20

21.12.19

RXPTRS - XMAS 09.01.20

NEKROGOBLIKON

JAH WOBBLE & THE INVADERS OF THE HEART 04.02.20

IDER

THE GROVE EAST MUD DOCK BRISTOL BS1 4RB

05.02.20

29.03.20

07.02.20

01.04.20

14.02.20

04.04.20

3TEETH POLIÇA (SANDY) ALEX G 16.02.20

TWIN PEAKS 25.02.20

BOY & BEAR 26.02.20

X AMBASSADORS 28.02.20

THE MARCUS KING BAND 02.03.20

WINSTON SURFSHIRT

DARCY OAKE KOJEY RADICAL WILLE & THE BANDITS 18.04.20

PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS 24.04.20

DARWIN DEEZ 25.04.20

LANTERNS ON THE LAKE 09.05.20

L DEVINE

03.03.20

THE SHERLOCKS 11.03.20

GEORGIA 12.03.20

ANAMANAGUCHI 13.03.20

WOLF PARADE 28.03.20

THE ICICLE WORKS

THEKLABRISTOL.CO.UK THEKLA.CLUB FT THEKLABRISTOL IY THEKLABRIS

to the moon

Instagram @tothemoonbristol // facebook.com/tothemoonbristol 27-29 Midland Road, Old Market, St Philips, Bristol BS2 0JT // 07845 700194 // tothemoon.cc

To The Moon is a superb little venue that can feel like a friends house with their chilled, friendly atmosphere. To The Moon takes great care in their drinks offer which includes local beers, classic cocktails and high quality spirits. They now proudly host Grano Kitchen who supply delicious proper Italian food. With an open-minded approach to music and events, the focus is on creating a fun, safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Events through the month can range from dub to disco and rum tastings to open decks nights.

December Highlights

USELESS ROYALS

LIQUID LUNAR NYE PARTY

13 Dec // 8pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12am // Free

31 Dec // 6pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2am // Free

Dance floor electronica and bouncy beats featuring DJs from Ruffnek Diskotek & Horseplay. Inclusive to everyone so head down for an evening of controlled chaos and light hearted fun.

If you fancy some euphoric liquid drum and bass to welcome you into the new year, look no further than To The Moon, as their selection of DJs will guarantee a cracker that will kick off 2020 on the right foot.

TRINITY Centre

Instagram @bristoltrinity // facebook.com/trinitybristol Trinity Centre, Trinity Rd, Bristol BS2 0NW // 0117 935 1200 // trinitybristol.org.uk

Penetrating Old Market’s skyline and ear drums, Trinity is home of the soundsystem in Bristol, as the longtime hub of Teachings in Dub, as well some harder sounds on the soundsystem spectrum. The Grade II-listed converted church also provides the perfect natural acoustics for live performances, with a mixture of up-and-coming talent and some of the biggest names on the circuit, across every genre you could think of. As well as a varied music programme, you can also look out for monthly BUMP roller disco sessions, drum and bass workouts and outdoor events in the summer, including the much-loved Trinity Garden Party.

December Highlights

BIMM END OF TERM PARTY

TEACHINGS IN DUB

5 Dec // 7pm – 10pm // £3

13 Dec // 10pm – 5am // £8

Celebrate the end of winter term with students of BIMM, as all are welcome to witness some of their top talents at work, with 20 acts playing on the night. Expect lots of original music as well as covers of popular hits.

A soundsystem clash banger at Trinity centre as 2 sounds meet in one arena, one from Bristol, one from London. With what promises to be an epic lineup, this won’t be one to miss after the success of The Weekender.

Dec 14 Amen4Tekno Dec 21 Skankers Xmas Skank Out Dec 31 Church of Love presents: The Fresh Prince of New Year Jan 18 The Hara Jan 21 The Teskey Brothers - SOLD OUT Jan 23 Sleep Token Jan 29 Kokoroko Feb 01 Beans on Toast Feb 04 Fatoumata Diawara Feb 06 Anna Meredith Feb 14 Polyphia Feb 24 Kindness Mar 07 Samantha Fish Mar 17 Coco Rosie Mar 29 Richard Dawson

spotlight // Aurora, O2 Academy Photos by Dominika Scheibinger

spotlight // heavy lungs, thekla Photos by Dominika Scheibinger

DRINKS GUIDE VENUES

BAMBALAN 74 THE GALLIMAUFRY 74 THE GRAIN BARGE 75 HER MAJESTYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SECRET SERVICE 75 HYDE & CO 76 LEFT HANDED GIANT 76 NOCHE NEGRA 77 THE OLD BOOKSHOP 77 SMALL BAR 78 THE SOCIAL 78 THE SPOTTED COW 79 THE TOBACCO FACTORY 79

Words: Rachel Morris Photos: Ania Shrimpton Location: To the Moon @tothemoonbristol

drinks

with

deepmedi.com @maladmz @Commodomusic

MALA & Commodo WE TALK TO TWO PIONEERS OF DUBSTEP ABOUT THE GENRE’S EVOLUTION, OPENING UP THE GATES – AND SOLVE THE MYSTERY OF MEDI100.

those releases help producers to experiment and shape things in a different direction

Last month brought the fifth instalment of Bristol’s annual weekend-long bassweight collision, Deep Medi x Teachings in Dub.

Bengal Sound, LUCY, Sir Hiss, DE-TU and Jook have lit their torch and continue to carry the sound in new directions.

Friday night’s lineup was, as always, in veneration to the sounds of dubstep, and so before things kicked off, we sat down with one of dubstep’s earliest originators and most important patrons of the scene, Mala; as well as key pioneer of the genre’s current sound, Commodo.

Now on his seventh Deep Medi press, following last year’s blow-up release Rikers / Daytona, Commodo has massively evolved since his 2011 label debut, via ventures into more straight-up grime and his 4x4 exploration Straight Reptilian.

Mala was at the dead centre of dubstep’s explosion in 2005 – as a producer, cofounder of the legendary DMZ nights and head of his luminary Deep Medi Musik record label. Over the years, Mala has remained at its helm through innovating and outside the box productions and label releases, through a period of return to the deep underground, right through to its resurgence over the last few years - arguably, dubstep’s second golden age. Commodo, though he has a hard time taking any credit for it, is part of a small group of producers who created the blueprint for a new sound, most often referred to as 140. Combining equally heavy influence from dubstep and grime, as well as idiosyncratic nods from garage to metal, a new generation of producers such as

Mala remembers his first talks on the phone with Commodo, incidentally while on a beach in Barbados, more than nine years ago: ‘Remembering the conversations we had then, listening to the music that he was making and seeing how far that has progressed – that in itself, seeing those steps, is inspiring; listening to the musical growth.’ ‘In a way, things have gone full circle for me’ says Commodo. ‘What I was really motivated to do at the time was try and reinvigorate, what I felt was, a music that was stagnated a bit. But some of the stuff that excites me most now is the stuff that you founded through DMZ, because the amount of variation in terms of beat patterns was so much more exciting – it really was.’ ‘I think that’s what’s interesting about when you came around,’ says Mala. ‘Because what you’ve done over the last couple of years

with your sound is really make it your own. You know a Commodo tune when you hear it. One, by the musical impact that it has, because it’s really musical; but at the same time, it’s so rugged – designed for the soundsystem. No one really sounds like that. ‘I think people underestimate how difficult it is to actually have your own sound. And I don’t think it’s something you try to do, it’s just something that you do, right?’ ‘No, it just happens naturally’ says Commodo. ‘I think everyone’s best music happens when it’s honest in that regard and it’s not overthought. I think that’s key – not spending too long that you second guess yourself.’ ‘If you look at Deep Medi’s catalogue, going from the beginning to now, you’ll see a lot of diversity’ says Mala. ‘Having my own label is wonderful, because I release music that I love, but it’s also about supporting the artists on their journey. ‘My role as I see it, as a label owner and in my position within the scheme of things, is to try and empower people to truly be themselves when they create. That’s when a relationship is a good one. It’s about the artist feeling free enough with the platform that they’re on to be as creative as possible. I think it’s up to the label to really stand

behind that and support that. As a result, those releases help producers to then experiment and shape things in a different direction.’ For Commodo, at least from a listener’s perspective, he hit the nail on the head around the time of his Kahn and Gantz collaboration, Volume 1. His releases going forward on Black Acre and Bandulu, as well as Medi have been discernibly Commodo; with that unique sound that even he finds it difficult to put his finger on: ‘The stuff that people like me and Gantz and Kahn at that time were expanding on, it’s created a sort of new formula, or new way of writing tunes. ‘I know what you mean and it’s not something I want to take credit for, but a lot of the stuff that’s around at the minute – and not in a bad way – does have similar aesthetics, that I can’t really describe either...’ ‘We never really understand why something takes off the way that it does’ says Mala. ‘You’re just trying to create, it’s not like you think “I’m going to set out to change things”. ‘As Commodo said, when you’re honest and you don’t overthink it, that’s when your best work comes out. When we present that to people, we don’t really know why it takes off the way that it does. Who knows? From being on the inside, I don’t think there’s any possible way to answer that.’ ‘And no one can take credit for it’ Commodo adds. ‘Try and

ask Mala if he feels responsible for the music I make and you’re probably going to get a similar answer. Of course, there was some groundwork laid, but you don’t ever feel ownership over anything like that.’ ‘It’s not about owning and controlling’ says Mala. ‘It’s about just being; letting it do its thing.’ The question of owning or controlling music in the world of soundsystem music is an interesting one, as it’s a movement built on dubplates and dances. While much of the rest of the world of music moved towards streaming and Spotify many years ago, it’s a less instinctive move for dubstep and many critical releases are still only available on limited run vinyl. It’s certainly part of the allure of soundsystem culture – going to an event and knowing that you might hear that particular track you’re excited about, though for some it can be frustrating; particularly while its popularity continues to grow and the price of limited records are inflated beyond extortion by re-sellers on Discogs. ‘I never resisted it, I just wasn’t interested in it’ says Commodo. ‘And that’s changed now. It’s fine to have exclusivity in the sense of unreleased music that only a few people have and you can only hear in a live setting, but in terms of excluding people from hearing the music, I think it’s dumb. ‘And the reverse is actually what I’m going to try and push going forwards, because I don’t see why people like us should be resigned to a very niche corner in that way. A lot

of the music is very accessible – a lot more accessible than we give it credit for, as well. So allowing more people to hear it is only good.’ ‘I remember, years ago, doing a talk at a seminar in Venezuela’ says Mala ‘and people saying “when are you going to sell your stuff digitally? We’re here in Venezuela, there are no record shops, we can’t get your records, but we love your music.” So, as Commodo says, to not allow the music to spread far and wide – in the sense that most people listen to music digitally nowadays across all of these different platforms – it just doesn’t make sense.’ ‘It’s just punishing people for no reason’ says Commodo. ‘Or they have to get terrible quality copies of it and they can’t listen to the music properly’ adds Mala. ‘Commodo’s Dyrge EP, the amount of people that I’ve played it to that have no interest in the music that we make at all, but when they hear that... And I’m just sending them Spotify links. So definitely music like that – it needs to be everywhere.’ Another example is Egoless’ Empire of Dirt, Commodo adds, ‘it’s the kind of thing that could randomly end up in the charts in Montenegro out of nowhere. There are plenty of aspects to the music that comes out on Deep Medi that isn’t just for the people who are coming tonight.’ At the beginning of last year, it did not go unnoticed that

Deep Medi skipped the much-anticipated MEDi100 release. New-signing Samba’s Winona EP has now marked MEDi107 this past September, but after nearly two years of online forums cooking up conspiracy theories of who, what and when MEDi100 will come – if ever – Mala lets us in on the big mystery:

events will always play a huge part in dubstep culture. The music is, at its core, made to be played through a soundsystem. In terms of how today’s ravers compare to the early DMZ days, Mala says: ‘Ravers are always the same. Wherever you go in the world, ravers just want to go out, enjoy music and have a good time.

‘When it comes to releasing other people’s music, I will scream about it all day; tell everybody about it, share it, play it. It’s my job – I love doing that. When it’s my own music, I don’t like doing it. I don’t want to think about it. I don’t want to put the tracks together. ‘I’ve been trying to put it together for ages, I had the tracks, I wanted to do eight tracks and people said “no it’s 100 – you’ve got to do at least 10.” ‘2020, it will definitely, definitely come. I get kicked up the arse about it all the time by my label manager Steph – people are in the forum, people have messaged under the Instagram post, where is MEDi100? ‘But to me, I don’t mean this in a negative way, I really don’t care what people say. It doesn’t push me or make me speed up the process of putting out a record just because someone says “you lot are long”.’ ‘They do say that’ Commodo laughs. Though, as much as Mala and Commodo are keen to make their releases accessible to all, as far as we can imagine,

Words: Rachel Morris Photos: Ania Shrimpton Location: To the Moon @tothemoonbristol deepmedi.com @maladmz @CommodoMusic

when you’re honest and you don’t overthink it, that’s when your best work comes out

‘I think we’re very lucky in the sense that for the events we put on, people come out because they want to hear specific music playing. It’s not your Yates’ wine bar, where people are passing through to have a drink and whatever’s on in the background is on. It’s not that type of business that we’re dealing with. ‘So the audience are often open to new music and new experiences within the dance. I guess what was different to doing that back in 2005 is that there was nothing like it in the world. We knew for a fact that, when we were putting on our DMZ event on a Saturday night, there was nowhere else in the world that would playing any of that music that was going to be played that night. And that is something that can’t be recreated unless something new happens. That feeling, both in the moment and looking back on it, is really special.’

Bambalan

Instagram @bambalanbristol // facebook.com/bambalanbristol Podium Level, Colston Tower, Colston Street, Bristol, BS1 4XE // 0117 922 1880 // bambalan.co.uk

One of the newer strings to the bow of Bristol’s legendary Hyde and Co group (now operating as New City Trading), Bambalan almost needs no introduction. Perfectly placed just off of the fountains, Bambalan really does have it all. Stunning vista’s over Bristol’s central walk match perfectly with delicious sharing drinks and exquisite food offerings. From private hire and brunches, to effortlessly effective post work facilities, it really does take some determined effort

to deny it’s clear relevance. Simple, local dining has never been easier, tastier or more well situated. Ever evolving cocktail lists are sure to please any palate and the cheery service compliments the food style perfectly. Accommodating staff and a slew of options for private hire make this unsung hero one of the must see stops of the city. It shines in summer, but their offering is potent enough to satisfy the needs of even the most discerning winter guest.

The Gallimaufry

Instagram @thegallibristol // facebook.com/TheGallimaufryBristol 26-28 The Promenade, Gloucester Road, BS7 8AL // 01179 42 7 319 // thegallimaufry.co.uk

Step inside The Galli and prepare to be dazzled by the colourful paper shapes framing the venue and its welcoming bar as soon as you walk through the door. This independent establishment is not only one of the most understated, picturesque bars in Bristol, but its drinks, food and live music selection are also top of the league. Praised as one of Gloucester Roads most cherished bars, The Gallimaufry serve a wide assortment of locally sourced

beers, both bottled and on tap, whilst keeping a selection of beers on rotation each week. Their wine list is filled with premium flavours that will quench your thirst, along with their selection of locally distilled gin. Whilst serving a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, The Gallimaufry also serve Clifton’s Coffee EQ blend and a great selection of British food with a curious twist.

A L W AY S

AP NT

Every day from 4-7pm

Local cask and keg ales

+ Award-winning South West ciders

Cocktails £5 Elderflower Collins

Gin, elderflower, lemon & soda

Aperol Spritz

Aperol, Prosecco & soda

Jamaican Mule

Rum, bitters, lime & ginger beer

La Paloma

Tequila, lime, grapefruit bitters & Ting

Horse’s Neck

Bourbon, bitters & ginger ale

White wine 175ml £4 Red wine 175ml £4 Prosecco 125ml

£4.25 thegallimaufrybristol @thegallibristol

grain barge

Her Majesty’s Secret Service

Instagram @grainbarge // facebook.com/grainbarge Hotwell Rd, Bristol, BS8 4RU // 0117 929 9347 // grainbarge.com

Bristol’s love for a boat knows no bounds and Grain Barge feeds that thirst dutifully. Moored at Hotwells, the large converted barge offers views of the harbour from an open-air top deck, a main bar with panoramic windows, a below decks event space, and a great selection of food and drink – sourcing much of their menu from South West suppliers. The main bar serves a wide range of delicious drinks, including beers from sister company Bristol Beer Factory, as well as an ever-rotating roster of guest taps from

Instagram @hmss_bristol // facebook.com/HMSSbar Whiteladies Gate, Whiteladies Rd, Bristol, BS8 2PH // 0117 973 3926 // hmssbristol.com

around the world; plus plenty of tasty topshelf spirits. There are a number of special nights throughout the week, including Wednesday Pie & Pint, Thursday Steak night and the newly introduced Curry & Quiz every Monday. The intimate Hold Bar downstairs hosts live music across a variety of genres, as well as open mic nights, poetry, exhibitions and one-off food and drinks specials, such as beer and cheese evenings or tap takeovers, and is a great space for private parties.

Tucked away near the entrance to Clifton Down station, prohibition-style cocktail bar Her Majesty’s Secret Service is one of Bristol’s best-kept secrets. It might look like nothing from the outside, but that’s the point. Discerning cocktail drinkers can step through a traditional red phone box to find a cosy, hangout and a highlyskilled bar team. The low lighting, chesterfield-style sofas and snug space all add to the authentic feel of a 1940s speakeasy. Bringing things

up to date, however, is their disco and funk inspired playlists and off-the-wall cocktails. The creative cocktail menu is currently inspired by the iconic sights and traditions of Britain, from the MI6inspired Careless Vespa martini to the Loch Ness Mobster, which lists 9g laughing gas as part of its recipe. The presentation of their cocktail is an art in itself, with drinks served in anything from an ink pot to a terrarium.

Happy hours!

FROM 17.00 - 19.00 DAILY

HAPPY HOUR(S) Happiness shouldn’t ever be restricted to just the one hour. We’re giving you two! Well two for £10 in fact, on these no-messin’ classics below Don’t see anything you fancy, don’t panic our regular menu is still available to choose from - outside of the oﬀer.

Floating bar & restaurant with three decks & panoramic views of the harbour from every table. Great choice of craft beers Seasonally inspired menu Sunday Roasts Hold Bar with Live Music and more Curry & Quiz Night every Monday

Hire our hold bar for your party, event or wedding

FRENCH 75

Bombay Sapphire - Lemon - Sugar syrup - Fizz!

ESPRESSO MARTINI

Finlandia vodka - Coﬀee Liquor - House Espresso magic

TOMMYS MARGARITA

Tequila - Triple sec - Agave Syrup

OLD FASHIONED

Woodford Reserve - Sugar Syrup - Bitters

AMERICANO

Martini Bitter - Martini Rubino - Soda

BEERS & WINES

SNACKS

CAN O’ PABST £4.5 CAN O’ GUINESS £4.5 GLASS O’ GRAPE £6 PROSECCO £6 BOILER MAKER £2.5

NOCELLARA OLIVES £3 SMOKED ALMONDS £3 BOMBAY MIX £2.5 HUMMUS & VEG CRISPS £4

IRISH COFFEE RICH, HEARTY AND OH SO, WARMING! Slane Irish Whiskey - Extract Coffee - Double cream - Nutmeg We’ve worked with Extract coffee and Slane Irish Whiskey on making this a real tasty treat for these chilly wintery evenings. The coffee is fresh, so on occasions we may run out of our daily allocation. We do advise snapping these up whist you can. £5 All of the time!

Hyde & CO

Instagram @hydecobristol // facebook.com/hydeandcobristol The Basement, 2 Upper Byron Pl, Bristol, BS8 1JY // 0117 929 7007 // hydeand.co

Hyde & Co has been a massive presence in the Bristol cocktail scene since its opening nearly a decade ago. It stands as one of the original speakeasy bars in Bristol and has been delivering consistent ambience, service and innovation. Hidden in plain sight, as it is, Hyde & Co has always been a well-kept secret. This allows autonomy and creative freedom for its bartenders, who experiment with mind bending flavour combinations

for their always impressive conceptual menus. The décor and aesthetic are highly reminiscent of the idea of the speakeasy. Low lit with sumptuous furniture and darkly dressed staff, it really is a place to escape the trappings of the world outside. It’s small, so call ahead and tumble back to a simpler time, where the bartender was a true hero and the guests all shone like stars.

Left Handed Giant

Instagram @lefthandedgiantbrewing // facebook.com/lefthandedgiant Wadehurst Industrial Park, St Philips Rd, Bristol, BS2 0JE // 0117 318 2102 // lefthandedgiant.co.uk

Accompanied by a backdrop of water just across the beautifully lit Fenzel’s Reach bridge in Castle Park, Left Handed Giant is a brand-new brewpub to crop up in Bristol after a successful crowdfunding campaign. Offering up a great atmosphere with its unique openspace architecture situated next to the water in Wadehurst Industrial Park, this independent brewery tap room knows a thing or two when it comes to producing a top range of homegrown beers, including favourites ‘Spitting Image and

‘New Best Friend’. In the short time LHG has been open, it has been given many five-star reviews and tipped as a great city brewery that will tickle your beer loving taste buds along with a mouthwatering selection of pizzas. On top of that, Left Handed Giant also understands that a dog is the human’s best friend, so you can bring along your four-legged furry companion and enjoy LHG’s great drinks selection at the dog

noche negra

Instagram @patanegrabristol // facebook.com/patanegrabristol 30 Clare Street, Bristol, BS1 1YH // 0117 927 6762 // patanegrabristol.com

Twinkling just out of mind above the bustling crowds of Bristol’s Corn Street you’ll find Noche Negra, one of the best kept secrets the city has to offer. One floor above the immaculately presented and delicious tasting tapas of Pata Negra, Noche slumbers in anticipation. Effortlessly flirting the line between Pata Negra’s relaxed confidence and the out and out vibrance of the cities biggest clubs, it exists to impress.

Impeccable design paired with a slew of local talent, from DJ’s and chefs to ‘tenders and tearaways, Noche Negra stands as a beacon of undeniable quality in a sea of uncertainty. To top it off, private hire and event hosting is available in both Noche Negra and in the building’s elusive second floor haunt of Privada. Uncompromising music and uncompromising service. Come for the food, stay for the party. Savour.

The Old Bookshop

Instagram @the0ldbookshop // facebook.com/theoldbookshop 65 North St, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 1ES // 0117 953 5222 // theoldbookshop.co.uk

It’s hard to miss The Old Bookshop on Bedminster’s North Street. With its colourfully inviting signage and windows, this cosy bar with vintage décor stands proud as being one of Bedminster’s humble treasures. The Old Bookshop offers a quirky atmosphere and friendly staff with a superb selection of drinks, from cocktails,

pints and spirits that can be enjoyed in the company of taxidermy creatures and curious trinkets that decorate the entire bar and walls. With its ever-evolving kitchen, award winning roast dinners and a unique selection of live entertainment. This bar is a feast for all the senses and is one of Bristol’s best family ran establishments.

NOCHE NEGRA ABSINTHE PINA COLADA - £9

P I N E A P P L E , C O C O N U T , M O U N T G AY E C L I P S E R U M , P E R N O D A B S I N T H E

SHERRY COBLER - £9 M A N G O , S H E R R Y , B E E F E AT E R G I N

PICK-ME-UP - £9

LILLET BLANC, ST GERMAIN, SUZE, TONIC

BUBBLE TROUBLE - £9

G R A P E F R U I T , L E M O N , B E E F E AT E R G I N , A P E R O L , C AV A

CLOVER CLUB - £9

R AS P B E R R Y , L E M O N , P LY M O U T H G I N , D R Y V E R M O U T H , E G G W H I T E

TOP NOCHE - £9

P A D R O N P E P P E R , A G AV E , L I M E , E L J I M A D O R T E Q U I L A , D E L M A G U E Y V I D A M E Z C A L

TORO BRAVO - £9

Y E L L O W P E P P E R , A P R I C OT , L I M E , E L J I M A D O R T E Q U I L A , L I L L E T B L A N C

CARAJILLO - £9

E S P R E S S O , M O U N T G AY E C L I P S E R U M , L I C O R 4 3

SMOKEY COKEY - £9

C H E R R Y , C O K E , C H I V AS 1 2 , L A P H R O A I G 1 0

PROSPECTOR - £9

HONEY, LEMON, VIOLET, BUFFALO TRACE BOURBON

JAZZ HANDS - £9

C U C U M B E R , S T R AW B E R R Y , L E M O N , B E E F E AT E R G I N , S W E E T V E R M O U T H

OLD MEXICO - £9

E L J I M A D O R T E Q U I L A , D E L M A G U E Y V I D A M E Z C A L , S H E R R Y , C H O C O L AT E

MAMACITA - £9

ORANGE, LIME, BLOOD ORANGE COINTREAU, EL JIMADOR TEQUILA

RASCAL - £9

M E TA X A , S H E R R Y , L A P H R O A I G 1 0 , B A N A N A

PLEASE TELL YOUR SERVER IF YOU HAVE ANY ALLERGIES.

Small Bar

Instagram @smallbar_bristol // facebook.com/smallbarbristol 31 King Street, Bristol BS1 4DZ // bristol@smallbar.co.uk // smallbar.co.uk

Based on Bristol’s famous strip of bars on Kings Street, The Small Bar is one of Bristol’s hidden gems that deserve your attention. Grab yourself a pint of one of the finest craft ales Small Bar have to offer, and enjoy the warm and friendly atmosphere that’ll give you a relaxing drinking experience where you can enjoy the quality of each sip. Ran by passionate bar staff who are on a mission to find the perfect beer, Small

Bar proudly represent the breweries nationwide, with particular support for the South West local ale trade. With the staff’s knowledge and beer expertise, they always keen to have the best of the best on tap. So, take a seat outside, or grab a chair and sit at one of the many barrel tables scattered around the rustic wooden finished bar and enjoy Small Bar’s executive collection of good quality beer.

The Social

Instagram @social_bristol // facebook.com/socialbarbristol 130 Cheltenham Road, Bristol, BS6 5RW // 0117 924 4500 // thesocialbarbristol.co.uk

With its central location on Cheltenham Road, The Social is recognised as part of the beating heart of Stokes Croft. Sit in the heated courtyard or curl up on one of the inviting red leather sofas by the window and watch the world go by with your favourite drink. Their friendly bar staff and sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere gives The Social a

NT E UD UNT T S SCO DI 78

unique charm, that lures you in for more. Boasting a great drinks menu, The Social know how to whip up anything from a frothy coffee to a succulent cocktail. Their wide variety of hot and cold drinks, including local beer, cider and ales and attractive wine list will help make this a favourite local hangout spot for almost any occasion.

the spotted cow Instagram @thespottedcowbristol // facebook.com/thespottedcowbristol 139 North St, Bristol, BS3 1ES // 0117 963 4433 // thespottedcowbristol.com

Transformed pub from a neglected old bar to one of the most popular hotspots in the community, the awardwinning Spotted Cow is a welcoming bar for locals and guests in the area. Based on North Street, this bar blends contemporary and traditional styles that provide all the elements for a perfect drinking spot; they even have one of Bedminster’s best beer gardens!

Quality pub food is at the heart of the operation, so be sure to try one of their many delicious dishes including their sensational Sunday roast. The Spotted Cow was one of the first pubs in Bristol to really champion local suppliers, working with local breweries and local farms for the meat and vegetables. Needless to say, their dedication to supporting local suppliers is reflected in every flavoursome taste.

Tobacco factory Instagram @tobacco_factory // facebook.com/tobaccofactory Raleigh Rd, Bristol BS3 1TF // 0117 902 0060 // tobaccofactory.com

Tobacco Factory’s industrial interior reflects its history as one of the last remaining buildings from the old Imperial Tobacco site. The welcoming cafe bar hosts a varied programme of live music and occasional DJs. You can also find ongoing art exhibitions, board game events and more. Offering an ever-changing selection of craft beer, larger and cider, Tobacco Factory makes a conscious effort to support local breweries, including sister company Bristol Beer Factory, Good Chemistry, Arbor Ales,

Lost and Grounded, New Bristol Brewery and Wiper and True. An open kitchen serves a healthy inspired menu of bold British & European flavours – look out for pre-theatre deals for the visitors to the upstairs theatre. Outside, the Yard Bar on the covered terrace is open on Ashton Gate match days for Bristol City football and Bristol Bears rugby. The large courtyard hosts their popular Sunday Market, plus live music events through summer.

POP-UP C H R IS T M A S MARKET Visit our pop-up Christmas market, launching Sunday 8 December in our new indoor Makers Market. Discover gifts by local makers, and produce from our Five Acre Farm, with healthy food & drink café.

Open 8 - 22 December Sundays, 10am - 3pm

(alongside our Sunday Christmas markets with over 50 stalls)

Tuesdays - Saturdays, 10am - 6pm

TOBACCOFACTORY.COM tobaccofactorymarkets

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shotgunbarbers.co.uk

(We charge by length of hair not gender!)

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