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
Beloved disco defenders Paradisco are back with DJ duo and record label Dar Disku in tow! Bringing serious crate-digging credentials and an expertly curated selection of Middle Eastern and North African dance diamonds to transport Brewgoers across nations and generations. Expect a packed + ecstatic dancefloor!
PARADISCO return to Brew with Dar Disku & NTS' Sofie K
Your last Halloween gasp kept lingering past the witching hour by the wicked people at Erratic Batting with pure gothic EBM/newbeat sleaze from DJ October, live darkwave techno from Falmouth’s Snake Gang and naughty 140 biz from Rea.
Part 2 of Crofters Frights Mini-Fest - 140 - Jungle - Darkwave - 90s Techno
Queer, sex-positive hedonism underground! It’s a three headed beasty beast with Marvin Rees-free all night pop-up queer strip club from Bristol Sex Workers Collective, bad bitch cabaret from Sexquisite and hi-NRG dancefloor shenanigans from Queerky’s special guest Harliiharleyharlee.
Sex Workers Cabaret n Queer Rave
Cardiff, Bristol and Berlin unite in a new wave flurry of EBM / new beat / cosmic trance and italo disco delight with Noods and Dummy Hands at the helm and Teak / Paradis Garden’s David J Bull + Cocktail d'Amore resident Budino on the decks. Coroner’s Court’s gonna s.w.e.a.t.
David J Bull & Budino
More Photos of Electronic Music in Bristol
What our editors say
“As well as quality electronic music, at Madruga you'll find a classic British pub serving draught favourites, a swimming pool and sauna, outdoor hot tubs, interactive art installations, and a variety of activites on offer.”
From: Madruga Festival 2024
“SICARIA: Operating under a nuanced identity, Lou Nour seeks to carry forth the legacy of successful predecessor Sicaria Sound via the conception of SICARIA: a persona marking her solo endeavours into the world of electronic music, championing everything which is exciting and forward-thinking in dubstep, cementing her status as a heavyweight advocate for lively, chest-rattling 140 bpm sounds.”
From: One Small Step SICARIA, Zoro, Fonzo, Rea, Lily Huu
“Come on down to Fungle Junk presented by Reginald for a funky fresh club night dedicated to the lovers of all things electronic. Taking over the legendary Crown this event promises an eclectic mix not to be missed! From the shape cutting rhythms of electro and breakbeat to the raw energy & power of jungle and drum & bass this night has something for everyone.”
From: Fungle Junk
“He will be taking us on a 4 hour journey through his legendary record collection and channeling his 8 years experience living in Berlin where he was playing every month at some of the wildest parties and after hours in the electronic music capital.”
From: Absolute Body Control Presents... Red Rack'em
“His success as an artist boils down to his refusal to speak on anything other than his truths, something that listeners can identify with, this is highlighted by three award wins at the Drum & Bass awards: Best MC, Best Vocalist and he featured on the Still Standing Remix which was awarded best remix. He is the go-to host for some of the finest that electronic music has to offer, from Calibre to Toddla T.'”
From: DRS: In Session • Bristol