On what might be one of the last big gig nights at the wonderful Marble Factory in Bristol before it closes, Peter Hook & the Light brought a performance of the New Order album 'Get Ready' in full, alongside a selection of the most seminal tracks from the rich catalogues of both Joy Division and New Order. And the passionate, full house were treated to an incredible night of music.

Who’s heard of a non-classical gig starting at 7.30pm? No, me neither. Yet, apparently, it’s a thing and - despite my forgetting to check - I duly arrived about 10 minutes after the start of this solo tour performance. Joan as Police Woman even gently scolded myself and other latecomers. I get it; I really do.

Prepare yourselves, music lovers! Kendal Calling is gearing up for its monumental 20th anniversary with a theme that captures the essence of every unforgettable celebration—“Good Times.” Taking place from 31 July to 3 August 2025 at the breathtaking Lowther Deer Park in Cumbria

THE PALE WHITE SHARE NEW ALBUM ‘THE BIG SAD’ - STREAM HERE

+ SUPPORT PIXIES LATER THIS MONTH AND INTO MAY - TICKETS HERE

Get ready to relive the golden era of indie and dance music at the SHIIINE ON Weekender, taking place at Butlin's Minehead from November 14th to 16th, 2025. This festival promises an unforgettable weekend packed with legendary acts, nostalgic vibes, and a vibrant community of music lovers.

Thirty-five years into their cosmic journey, The Orb remain pioneers of innovation in electronic music. Alex Paterson, the mastermind behind this interstellar odyssey, has never been one to rest on his laurels. Instead, he continues to reinvent, ensuring The Orb's legacy is as dynamic as the music itself.

The Ultra Violets are a band from Cornwall who have appeared on many festival main stages including Boardmasters, they have graced the stage of The Eden Project when they supported McFly and have just come back from France where they were supporting The Libertines, yes folks, they have done it all. I caught up with frontman Perran Nicholls to chat about an intimate 3 date tour that they’re doing in May, read on to see what we learned….

Bristol’s Old Market came alive on Saturday, April 12th, as the much-loved Outer Town Festival returned for another unforgettable edition. Known for its unique charm and fiercely independent ethos, this one-day multi-venue extravaganza once again proved why it’s a staple in the city’s music calendar.

Cardiff's own Panic Shack are back, and they’re making a big noise—literally. After a two-year gap, the band has dropped their blistering new single, "Gok Wan," released on Brace Yourself Records. Premiered by Huw Stephens on BBC 6 Music, the single serves as a bold glimpse into the quintet’s highly anticipated debut album.

‘GET READY’
UK DATES FOR APRIL 2025
INCLUDING HUGE MANCHESTER SHOW
PLUS, BRISTOL GIG

Live music is one of life’s great joys—a euphoric cocktail of raw emotion, connection, and artistry. Yet, the price of admission is far more than just the ticket fee. From £3 nights at a grassroots venue to eye-watering sums for stadium experiences, live music comes with a cost that extends beyond the obvious. For some, it's an occasional indulgence; for others, it’s a way of life. But how do attendees manage the mounting expenses, and is the live music experience still accessible to all? Let’s break it down.

The vibrant heart of Exeter's music scene came alive last Saturday as Pale Blue Eyes took to the main stage at Exeter Phoenix. With their third studio album, New Place, freshly released in March, fans packed the venue to experience the band’s mix of shoegaze and dream pop. Supported by indie pop trio Silk Cuts, the evening proved to be a celebration of musical innovation and community spirit.

Record Store Day 2025, held on Saturday, April 12th, once again brought vinyl enthusiasts together for a day of exclusive releases, community spirit, and the thrill of the hunt. At Phoenix Sounds in Newton Abbot, the excitement was palpable as over 100 eager collectors queued up before the shop opened its doors at 8 a.m. Some dedicated fans even arrived before midnight the night before, braving the chilly night to secure their coveted finds.

On a cool evening in the heart of Plymouth, The Pavilions played host to an unforgettable night as Ocean Colour Scene brought their sold-out UK and Ireland tour to the city. With tickets flying out of the box office back in October 2024, the anticipation for this show was electrifying—and the band delivered a performance that cemented their legacy as one of Britain’s finest.

“Oh, What a Night!” As The Four Seasons crooned it back in 1975, I found myself echoing the sentiment outside The Junction on Mutley Plain, Plymouth, fifty years later. After a life-affirming evening of live music, courtesy of WELLY, it’s safe to say this was one of those nights that remind us why we love heading out to see bands in intimate venues.

Spring has well and truly sprung, and it was time to jump aboard the good ship Thekla in Bristol and be thoroughly serenaded by the Kent troubadour and storyteller Will Varley. We really were in for a treat.

Get ready, Torquay! On Saturday, 25th October, the legendary Chris Moyles is bringing his 90s Hangover to Arena, and it’s set to be an unforgettable night of nostalgia, music, and pure fun. Expect the biggest hits from the 90s, spanning indie, rock, pop, and dance—from Blur to Britney, Pulp to Prodigy, and everything in between.

After seeing WELLY perform at The Junction in Plymouth on April 9th, 2025, I was keen to speak to the main man himself to find out what all the fuss is about. We chatted about their debut album, their accommodation choices on the tour, information on their ‘difficult’ second album and I even managed to squeeze the ‘cheese’ question in at the end. We also had a lengthy debate about which type of Salt n’ Vinegar crisps are the best and we came to an agreement on the one that I suggested (winner).

If you haven’t yet heard of WELLY, it’s time to get acquainted. This Southampton-born, Brighton-based quintet is breathing new life into Britpop with their sharp wit, infectious melodies, and a knack for turning the mundane into the magical. With a slew of singles released over the past year and their debut album Big in the Suburbs now out, WELLY is quickly becoming a name to watch in the indie music scene.

Imagine a sprawling field illuminated by fairy lights, the scent of food trucks mingling with the anticipation of music lovers ready to experience something unforgettable. A festival not bound by time or space, where the greatest artists who ever lived share the stage with contemporary legends. Welcome to your Dream Festival—the ultimate celebration of musical magic.