From time to time you stumble upon artists who don’t just write songs, they create worlds that you can escape the mundanity of every day life, Over the past few years, Ollie Dixon has quietly become one of them. From the south coast, he’s carved out a space in the alt‑folk landscape that feels both intimate and cinematic, the kind of music that makes you stop mid‑stride because something in it mirrors your own internal feelings.

Ahead of their headline set at SHIIINEON Festival which took place at Butlin’s in Minehead in November, we sat down with Tim Wheeler and Mark Hamilton from ASH to chat about their ‘fresh out of the oven’ 9th studio album AD ASTRA, their punishing tour schedule, pre-gig rituals and whether or not they’ve been good boys this year!

“CLASH is about bringing people together — think of it as an extension to what we’ve created at Things Happen Here in a different setting.” — Ed, co-founder

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s an ideal time to shout about the records that cut through the noise and actually linger. And one album that’s properly stood out for us is the self-titled debut from Los Costureros – a Totnes-formed quartet threading Spanish, Brazilian and modern rumba influences into something vivid, intimate and joyfully human. 

Few artists embody joy, groove, and sheer creative energy quite like Cory Wong. With his forthcoming solo album Lost In The Wonder (out February 3rd, 2026), the Minneapolis-born virtuoso and Vulfpeck member reaffirms his place as one of modern music’s most dynamic collaborators.

Saturday 13th December, Exeter — There’s something about the Cavern that invites intimacy. Maybe it’s the low ceiling, the sticky floors, or the way the stage feels like it’s part of the crowd. Whatever it is, it was the perfect setting for a night that felt personal, celebratory, and quietly historic — the 100th show from the Miki Berenyi Trio.

Every generation produces bands and artists who make their mark. From the raw power of Nirvana to the sprawling soundscapes of Pink Floyd, certain acts shape culture as well as create amazing music. Today, beneath the mainstream surface, the UK’s underground scene is alive with bands and artists whose originality and bite suggest they could still be talked about in 50 years.

ALREADY ANNOUNCED SELF-TITLED DEBUT ALBUM OUT 16TH JANUARY 2026 VIA YEAR0001 - PRE-SAVE HERE

BAND TO PLAY MOTH CLUB, LONDON 28TH MARCH 2026

Saint Etienne, the beloved London trio known for their dreamy blend of indie pop, electronica, and nostalgia, have announced their final UK and Ireland tour, aptly titled The Long Goodbye. Following the release of their last studio album International in September 2025, the band will take to the stage one last time in September 2026, marking the end of a remarkable 35-year journey.

We recently posted a news feature about n0trixx releasing a new single and her debut album in march 2026, following on from that, we wanted to learn more about this wonderful artist, so we sent her a load of questions to answer and she replied in record time, read on to learn about her musical influences, her criminal record, the Russian music scene and who she would invite to a dinner party….

London’s art-rock quintet The Last Dinner Party have quickly become one of the UK’s most talked-about new bands since forming in 2021. Fronted by Abigail Morris (vocals) alongside Lizzie Mayland (vocals/guitar), Emily Roberts (lead guitar/flute), Georgia Davies (bass), and Aurora Nishevci (keyboards/vocals), the group have become a household name that blends a certain theatrical approach to their indie-rock style.

A CATALOGUE OF MADNESS AND MELANCHOLIA DEBUT ALBUM ANNOUNCED - OUT MARCH 13TH 2026
 
‘REVENGE ON GOD’ BRAND NEW SINGLE OUT NOW
 
UK HEADLINE TOUR ANNOUNCED FOR MARCH / APRIL 2026

On Saturday 28th February 2026, Torquay’s ARENA is about to be transformed into a nerve centre of noise, a foyer of fury, and…..I can’t think of third word to use, damn you age old brain!

Tonight, Things Happen Here in Dartington traded standing-room chaos for seated candlelit calm as fans gathered for An Evening with Mark Morriss—a seated, intimate solo show that promises stories, songs, and a generous dose of self-deprecating charm.

ArcTanGent returns to Fernhill Farm next summer (19–22 August 2026) with a line-up that feels like a dream wish list finally realised. The award-winning festival, long celebrated as the UK’s home for adventurous rock and experimental sounds, has unveiled its trio of main stage headliners — and they’re nothing short of historic.

Sabrina Kennedy has unleashed her latest single, Witch Of The West, a fierce rock statement that’s already turning heads across the UK music scene. Out now on all streaming platforms, the track arrives with a striking video and a limited 7” vinyl edition — complete with an exclusive acoustic B-side of her debut single Hold Tight.

One of the most urgent, immediate and irrepressible tracks the band have delivered to date, “Warning Signs” is a lightning bolt of realisation and unrequited love. 

Bristol was buzzing on a chilly November Sunday evening, the streets alive with weekend energy as we made our way to the O2 Academy. For me and Julian, my trusted photographer, this gig doubled as our impromptu MusoMuso Christmas party—a ritual of noodles before the show, laughter, and anticipation as we reflected back on a successful 2025.

Billing itself as an independent taproom, venue and record label, Dartington venue Things Happen Here is fast gaining a rep as a really unique music space thanks to some canny bookings of late. Offering food (amazing pizzas) and a wide range of locally-produced craft beer and cider, the place has an independent quirkiness which fits with the TQ9 ethos.

We caught up with SPIKE SLAWSON from Spike and the Gimme Gimmes ahead of their US/UK tour where they’ll be bringing festive cheer to a town or city near YOU. For more information on the tour dates and where to puchase tickets, click HERE

We had a great chat about the tour, support acts, Christmas dinner, their 2026 calendar, paid escorts and three festive faves that will be on repeat in the Slawson household throughout the festive period, read on to learn more!