Bristol's Blues Events

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Bristol's Blues Scene

Is blues music under-represented in Bristol?

While other American-originated music like funk and soul enjoy a huge number of acts and dedicated venues, where is the home of blues in Bristol? With its roots in the oppression of the black peoples of America, blues was transplanted over to the UK via white rock acts like the Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton. A quick browse of blues played on the BBC recently and tyhe Guardian’s list of the best blues festivals show some support for nearby Bath, but nothing for blues in Bristol. This begs the question: who will lead the new blues revival in Bristol?

Blues gigs in Bristol are found in pretty consistent venues with places like The Prom and the Thunderbolt popular live blues spots. Generally blues-rock seems more prominent in Bristol than traditional rhythm and blues bands or delta blues singers, although there is some really interesting stuff out there. Other venues to check for blues include the Cori Tap in Clifton and the Blue Lagoon on Gloucester Rd.

It's always worth looking at what's on at the Canteen in Bristol whose listings vary in style but are usually consistently high in quality - some potential blues gems there...

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Our recent blues recommendations

Sell out warning! Crazed cumbia meets mutant surf, acid champeta and retro-future radiophonic SFX via Bogotá’s most notorious supergroup (ft. Meridian Brothers mastermind Eblis Alvarez). Astonishingly strange new instrumental worlds FFO: Romperayo, Dengue Dengue Dengue!, Ondatrópica, Frente Cumbiero, Fumaça Preta. Los Pirañas at The Jam Jar.

Sell-out warning! Gorgeous, dream-soaked ghost music, refracted through hypnagogic pop lulls and a soulful jazz poise. Tara Clerkin Trio’s seductive sound is rooted in the city’s lineage of smudged trip-hop and experimental forms, with this homecoming gig at Trinity promising something quietly magical that we’ll all look back on for years to come… utterly unmissable. Tara Clerkin Trio at The Trinity Centre.

Sell out warning! Come commune with the music of the stones: TSHNE continues to astound after THAT intimate Bridget St John happening with Incredible String Band treasure Robin Williamson – the arch bard of UK outsider folk – gracing the lil ol’ Microplex. Undiminished by time, he performs with longtime partner Bina on a stunning set of Celtic and Indian traditionals, marked by intricate, eccentric magic. Robin & Bina Williamson + Rosie Brownhill + Fohn at The Cube.

Radical troubadour Grace Petrie brings her unique brand of fist-in-the-air protest folk to a rapturous St George's, examining social and political issues of austerity-ravaged modern Britain with Bragg-approved anthems of solidarity and solace. 21st century icon FFO: Frank Turner, Laura Jane Grace, Kirsty MacColl, Onsind. Grace Petrie - Bristol at St George's Bristol.

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What our editors say

“9:30pm / free entry ~~~ The Slimline Shufflers are a dynamic New Orleans-style rhythm’n‘blues band hailing from Bristol, UK, with virtuosic piano playing, searing harmonica, and inspiration drawn from iconic Crescent City musicians such as Professor Longhair, James Booker, Allen Toussaint and Dr. John. Comprised of Henry Slim on harmonica & vocals, Eric Arthur on piano, Adam Newton on upright bass, and Max Harrison on drums & vocals, the band have honed their unique style over the past 10 years, captivating audiences across the UK.”
From: The Slimline Shufflers monthly residency

“One of blues rock’s most exciting breakout bands of recent years, Hutchinson’s power trio have been praised for ‘turning a club show into a primal scream’. Packed with hard hitting riffs and gritty guitar solos, his songs bring audiences together with choruses that soar.”
From: Jack J Hutchinson

“Steve teamed up with Paul Hobday, a Westcountry “gun for hire” guitar player to form a powerful duo who have toured extensively in Europe and Ontario, Canada.After recording a new studio album, “Raise A Glass” Payne and Hobday are returning to tour the US, as SP3, with Yardbirds and Nine Below Zero harpman Billy Boy Miskimmin.Look forward to world class roots, blues and boogie from three of the UK’s finest exponents….”
From: Steve Payne Trio

“The Senna Weeks Organ is a dynamic three-piece band renowned for their electrifying fusion of funky blues. Featuring the soulful guitar and vocals of Senna Weeks, this trio delivers a powerful and engaging musical experience. Their sound is a vibrant blend of gritty blues and funky rhythms, captivating audiences with every performance. Join us for an unforgettable night of live music!”
From: Senna Weeks Organ Trio

“DHP presents Uncle Lucius + special guests Monday 31st August 19:00 - 22:30 Uncle Lucius is an Austin, Texas-based band that delivers a soulful fusion of Americana, classic rock, blues and country. Tickets sold by Strange Brew on behalf of the promoter, DHP. All ticket revenue belongs to the promoter.”
From: Uncle Lucius + special guests