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.
Buy tickets for electronic events in Bristol
Our recent electronic recommendations
Essential one for the dance music heads! UK club pioneer and Hessle Audio co-founder Pangea makes a long-overdue debut at the Brew alongside Timedance newcomer Cleyra, whose melodic techno offers a kaleidoscopically heady sonic trip filled with SOPHIE-esque metallics, wiggy electronic twists and cavernous bass.
Hessle Audio founder Pangaea brings his bassy and off-kilter techno to the brew backroom
Sell out warning! Like a phoenix from the dark ashes, Sandwell District has arisen. You are invited to their Bristol requiem for fallen angel Silent Servant; the first ever appearance of Regis and Function in these realms. Sleek symphonies for cyberpunk warehouses and ominous dub pulses await ye in truly punishing style. This isn’t just techno, this is Sandwell, and the very name should demand your total allegiance.
Strange Brew & CORN present techno icons Sandwell District for a rare all night long set
Come check the joyful energy of NTS’ OK Williams, slinging unbearably hype UKF/140/electro tunes one second and then switching to tear-jearking soulful house the next. BPM police get in the bin, OK Williams is hardwired to the invisible pulse of the club.
Start ya Easter break right with this XTRA combo
Spun-out live IDM and cosmic dance futurism in the Beacon basement! A homecoming victory lap for Delay Grounds after his insane LP on Global Warming Recs. Expect an unholy combo of erratic techno metamorphosis and meticulous composition reminiscent of Minor Science, Pressure Dome or Metrist.
Delay Grounds returns to Bristol with more wonky modular goodness
More Photos of Electronic Music in Bristol
What our editors say
“KOAN Sound formed in 2008 from the remnants of various musical projects, seamlessly blending a love for electronic music with natural musical sensibility. Since then, they've continued to evolve - crafting increasingly intricate and inspiring bodies of work.”
From: KOAN Sound + Special Guest: Culprate
“Nubiyan Twist Present NT Soundsystem - a new stripped back dancefloor-ready lineup as they VIP remix the entirety of new album ‘Find Your Flame’ in a soundsystem style with live brass - expect a blend of dub, dancehall, amapiano, jungle, garage, kuduru and more.”
From: Nubiyan Twist Present NT Soundsystem • Bristol
“A true multi-genre selector, his sets explore sounds from across the globe, yet they are deeply rooted in the rhythms and melodies of North Africa and the Middle East—the sonic landscapes of his heritage. Whether weaving together jazz, reggae, rai, disco, or electronic music, his selections tell stories that transcend borders.”
From: Brakery w/ Cheb Mimo
“Known for her sets that traverse bass, percussion, and experimental electronic music, and presence on platforms like Rinse FM and Foundation FM, Fliss Mayo curates shows that highlight global electronic sounds, both new and old. Her performances are characterized by energy and a deep appreciation for diverse musical styles.”
From: Summer Sessions: Fliss Mayo, Rose Holland, Nathan Worm
“From his early releases and first label Punch Drunk through to the establishment of Livity Sound in 2011, Pev’s helped represent Bristol’s ever-evolving independent electronic music scene internationally. More than a decade in, Livity Sound now stands as one of the key global benchmarks for a hybridised dance music which draws on inventive approaches to rhythm and melody.”
From: Livity Sound w/ Peverelist & Hodge