As synthesizers, drum machines and sequencers become more affordable, it’s becoming rare to see live music performances without at least some electronic component. Bands are embracing new technology and unlike the every-band-needs-a-turntablist movement of the 2000’s, synthesizers are here to stay.
At the other end of the spectrum lies electronica and dance music where producers live shows have also hugely benefitted from the increasing access to physical hardware. Gone are the days where a “live” set involved watching a producer awkwardly staring into their laptop pausing for the occasional hit of bit-crush and reverb. From one man shows to co-ordinated digital masterpieces, we are for the first time we’re starting to see electronic producers making truly engaging live shows. James Blake, Mount Kimbie, Flying Lotus, Gold Panda and Luke Abbott are just a few of the artists to bring their MPC’s, patch bays and stunning live shows to Bristol.
If we set dance music to one side, then it’s relatively easy to highlight a few key venues for live electronic music in Bristol. Start The Bus, The Louisiana and The Exchange typically pick up artist’s first live tours while you would want to pick up tickets to The Trinity Centre, The Fleece or Thekla for larger, more established artists.
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Our recent electronic recommendations
Meditative low-end pressure and blissed-out ambient vibrations rolling straight out of Take Five’s intimate basement. Skruff leans into hazy, bass-riddled mysticism while Inner Echo serves up heavy, Om Unit-style slo-mo-dub rumblers. A huuuge tip if you dig: Innamind Recordings, Basic Channel, Deep Medi and Moonshine Recordings.
SKRUFF - MASIS - TUBBY ISIAH - INNER ECHO
Free entry! Definitely squeeze this lil live radio session into your Saturday night warmup plans – Arc are hosting the Alexander Nut/Floating Points-championed broken future beat stylings of Sentinel 793 for a 3 hour spesh. Unsung local hero, 20 years in the making FFO: Donsurf, Bugz In The Attic, Funkineven, Kyle Hall.
3 hr set from Sentinel 793
RTN are taking the techno marathon reins in a bank holiday sesh for the books! 12 hours of pure 4/4 grit with the sounds of Surgeon Girl’s synth-driven atmospherics, industrial kinetics from Livid, Öspiel’s textural EBM live ‘n direct + abrasive sculptural sonics from Sorcery and Rommek’s b2b debut.
12 hours at The Island with the key artists reshaping the language of techno.
Enter Erika’s world of celestial techno, where hypnotic grooves meet acidic electro, forging a singular worldbuilding path via Interdimensional Transmissions and her legendary No Way Back parties. This spellbinding Detroit-reared sound sits perfectly alongside Pev’s dub-techno futurism in an essential Livity home-run FFO: Rrose, Mike Parker, Jane Fitz, Mike Servito.
Detroit x Bristol combine with Erika and Peverlist
More Photos of Electronic Music in Bristol
What our editors say
“Bringing a fresh new vibe to Bristol, expect non stop energy from start to finish with the best in house, garage, dancehall & RnB. Good people, good music & nothing but feel good music all day. Come ready to move, connect & be a part of something new.”
From: Keep It Movin
“Celebrate my birthday in style at The Queens Head pub with an electrifying day of disco, techno, and breakbeat. The soundtrack moves unapologetically between genres, blending timeless grooves with cutting-edge beats to keep the dancefloor alive. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, great drinks, and a crowd ready to move all night. Whether you're into funky rhythms or underground energy, this party promises an unforgettable mix of sounds and celebrations. Line up: The Ballbreaker Lean Allmighty Rubn Delarhythm More TBC”
From: Summer B-Day Party
“Summer is coming around quickly ☀ We are heading back to the beloved van in the heart of st werbs. Capacity is limited so do not miss out. There will be a fully stocked bar and Tommy's Pizza on sale (it is not BYO!) Good vibes only, respect the space and the neighbours. Friends & family affair. MUSIC - J Rus & Yusuf Suave ALL DAY LONG. (3pm - 10pm) afrobeats, afrohouse, dancehall, disco, funky, garage, groove, house, latin, rnb. see you in the sun. Love, team whine x”
From: Summer Time Whine 2 {Day Party}
“Pontes De Ritmos invites Cashu, a Sao Paulo based DJ and co creator of Mamba Negra, to The Love Inn for a night of Brazilian inspired Techno & Bass music. Cashu is one of the key figures of São Paulo's queer underground electronic music scene, where her work constantly communicates urgent political issues. Supported by Pontes De Ritmos's AÆE, a mainstay Bristol resident, specialising in UK Bass music inspired by his Brazilian heritage.”
From: PDR Pres. Cashu
“Harder than House is back for a Bank Holiday special with one of Bristol rising stars: JPEG! The Bristol based polymath has been a fixture on the scene for the last few years, bringing her own blend of breakbeat, electro, jungle and acid stompers to great effect. We are more than excited that she has agreed to join us for a night of high energy action!”
From: Harder Than House: JPEG / dontforgettogohome / Borai