ARTISTS
ABSUMA
APPEARING LIVE AT Havana @7:45PM
Absuma’ was started by Littlehampton local Simon Keet. Trained classically as a child in Guitar, Simon grew up with a rebellious musical spirit.
Assembling a talented network of friends and family Simon Keet’s ‘Absuma’ are making new music that makes us feel, think and takes us on a provocative journey through human experience and connection.
Oh, and if you’re wondering how the heck to say ‘Absuma’ it’s AB - SUE - MAR. It's the name that his gypsy grandfather Abraham named the house he built after himself (Abe), his daughter (Susan) and his wife (Maureen). Simon grew up there for a bit in the countryside before they had to sell it due to Maureen's diabetes. After that, they relocated to a bungalow in Littlehampton where the band now rehearses.
This isn't Simon's first rock n' rodeo, but he promises it will be his last.
AIKO
APPEARING LIVE AT The Fountain @8:45PM
Aiko – AIKO is a synonym for musical excellence, combining picturesque lyrics with transcending melodies, delivering an emotional experience. Her essence consists of accepting, empowering, and well-being, creating a comforting space for anyone being in close proximity to her creations.
Moscow born, Czech Republic raised and London based, she is an artist with a unique blend of cultures and influences, who explores topics such as love, solitude, and understanding of self with her music.
As a solo artist, she released an EP ‘Aiko’ in 2018, followed by the release of her debut album titled ‘Expiration Date’ in 2020. As of the release, the album gained a lot of success being featured on various editorial playlists. From 2021 on, Aiko was releasing singles with striking visuals, receiving many Radio and TV features all over Europe, such as BBC Radio, Kerrang!, Radio Wave. Multiple of her songs appeared in the MTV series ‘Teen Mom’, and she collaborated with brands like L’Occitane, Red Bull, H&M and Converse. Appearing on Times Square, Aiko was the first Czech female of the Spotify Equal Campaign with global coverage.
Her Project gained features in magazines such as Vogue, Elle and Harpers Bazaar. She has shared the stage with the likes of Tamino, Black Honey or Lauren Ruth Ward, performed at festivals such as Eurosonic Noorderslag, Waves Vienna and Sziget. Recently signing with Marshall Live Booking, she in now booked for festivals such as Rock For People, Metronome festival and Grape Festival and soon to release an album.
AIMEE MOODY
APPEARING LIVE AT The Escapist @5PM
Aimee Moody is a soulful singer/songwriter from Charlottesville, Virginia. She plays Guitar and Trumpet and sings in several UK bands, such as Irrelevant Elephant, and with Thomas Ashby, and Jack Boyd.
Aimee is working to become an independent artist, and is in the midst of recording her debut EP, all while performing regularly at venues in and around Chichester. Her music is a unique blend of Neo-Soul and Jazz, and is known for her soothing vocals and poetic, thought-provoking lyrics. Her style is influenced by her love for classic jazz artists like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, and emotive soul singers like Etta James and Amy Winehouse. Her poetry is inspired by the many prolific writers of the 60s and 70s; John Lennon, James Taylor, and Joni Mitchell to name a few.
Aimee’s passion for making music came from a young age, and she has been performing her original songs across the world since she was only 13 years old. After spending years studying and perfecting her craft, Aimee is finally ready to appear on the scene, bringing over a decade's worth of original songs and empowering stories.
Anna Pancaldi
Appearing Live at Little Monster Tap @7:30pm
Anna Pancaldi, an enchanting and noteworthy London-based singer-songwriter influenced by the likes of Joni Mitchell, Carole King and proves a rare talent and an artist to remember through her wondrous vocals and thought-provoking songbook. Anna’s exquisite latest musical offerings are effortlessly honest, touchingly relatable and is a performer known for her deeply affecting live performances.
2023 promises to be a fruitful one after a sold-out London headline show at Folklore in May 2023 followed by her rousing new single, Where Do I Lay All the Love I Have Left. 2023 sees a string of single releases, with her anthemic single, Stay This Way released on September 8th, after which Anna will embark on a full headline UK tour, including a headline show at London’s, The Waiting Room on October 20th.
2023 marks a poignant new epoch for Anna having musically remerged from her chrysalis with her most inspired music yet and a pivotal turning point in her career.
With an impressive catalogue of music placements in film and TV including the globally acclaimed Grey's Anatomy trailer, Focus Feature film, Every Body, Pretty Little Liars, Famous in Love, Paramount film, The In Between, Nancy Drew on CW and has featured in and soundtracked an adrenaline filled Levi's campaign.
With three Top Ten's in the singer-songwriter iTunes charts, Anna has gone on to captivate audiences headlining across the UK, Europe and the US. Headlining shows in NYC, LA, Chicago, and Nashville. Anna has captured audiences with TV appearances on CBS LA and London Live and toured the world opening for heavyweight artists such as David Ryan Harris (John Mayer's guitarist), Jake Isaac and Fatai.
Gaining momentum and traction with nod of approval from print/online press, radio and editorial playlists. Anna’s music has been featured in Spotify playlists giants such as New Music Friday, Easy, Most Beautiful Songs in the World as well as receiving support from the legendary BBC on shows such as BBC
Radio 1, 2, 6 and BBC Introducing in London and Essex.
"Anna Pancaldi has long been in possession of a voice that reaches for emotional highs and swoops into emotional lows with equal intensity. the raw beauty of that voice shines through like never before." - The Line of Best Fit
Armstrong
APPEARING LIVE AT THE FOUNTAIN @6:45PM
Armstrong are a 4-piece, independent band based in the South East of England. Tom (Vocals & Guitar), Will (Bass & BVs), Jarv (Guitar) & Ollie (Drums).
Known for their incredible live energy and powerful harmonies, Armstrong put everything into every show they play, truly showcasing what up-and-coming British artists have to offer with an energetic and powerful performance of their catchy and anthemic indie pop-rock tracks. As well as showcasing their ability to put on a captivating and engaging live show, they demonstrate their passion for crafting songs with hard-hitting, emotion-driven lyrics paired with memorable, ear-candy riffs and melodies. We would also hope to display the personalities within the band.
“Glorious pop-rock that pops and, you guessed it, rocks. Armstrong have a hit on their hands with Morning.” BBC RADIO SURREY
"This is anthemic indie-rock at its finest" THE CURVE MAGAZINE
Ava McKechnie
APPEARING LIVE AT Franco Manco @12:30PM
I'm a singer-songwriter from Dublin with a pop/country feel. I draw inspiration from artists such as Train and Damien Rice, and enjoy focusing on storytelling through my songs.
BEATROOT
APPEARING LIVE AT THE FOUNTAIN @6:45PM
Hailing from the South Coast of the UK, Beatroot are a 9-piece originals funk band that knows how to get a crowd moving. Formed in 2021, the band wasted no time in bringing their unique brand of funk to the masses, and their debut single "Falafel Funk" is out now on all streaming platforms.
Featuring a dynamic lineup of saxophones, trumpets, electric guitar, keyboard, bass, and drums, Beatroot draws inspiration from bands like Lettuce, Tower Of Power, Snarky Puppy, and Five Alarm Funk. Their music is characterised by groovy rhythms, infectious melodies, and killer solos that showcase the talents of each individual member.
Beatroot have already made a name for themselves on the festival circuit, having played at many events including Victorious Festival and Cheltenham Jazz Festival. Their high-energy performances and infectious sound make them a must-see act for anyone who loves to dance.
With their debut single out now and more music on the way, Beatroot are poised to take the UK funk scene by storm. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the funky sounds of Beatroot.
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Ben Jones
APPEARING LIVE AT The George & Dragon @6:15PM
Ben Jones is a folk/indie singer-songwriter who finds inspiration in the fusion of traditional and contemporary folk music. His heartfelt lyrics and melodies reflect a deep love for storytelling.
"Fast becoming a very popular performer on the south coast" - PIP Productions.
Ben has played venues such as Wickham Festival, Portsmouth Bandstand, and performs regularly at venues spanning Brighton, Chichester and Portsmouth.
After the release of his independently produced album titled, 'You Know Me', Ben is now working towards a second self-produced album scheduled to be released by the end of the year."
Blair DavIe
Appearing Live at Little Monster Tap @6:30pm
After introducing themself with a flurry of exciting initial offerings in 2022, 22 yo London-based Scottish-born and raised singer-songwriter Blair Davie has been tipped as one of the most anticipated new artists on the rise right now. As a seasoned performer who has been writing music and fronting bands since they were a teenager, Davie’s rise can be pinpointed to their intimate songwriting that feels more honest than others in their field.
After a particularly challenging 2020, Blair Davie began working on their solo material. Since then, Blair has amassed more than 12k followers on TikTok, been officially playlisted on Spotify, toured the UK and Europe with the likes of JP Cooper, Emile Sande, and Fatherson, and sold out their first headline show at London’s Laylow.
Davie’s music deals with self-acceptance, their bisexuality, anxiety, loss, and heartbreak; but also the beauty that life can offer. Some referring to it as “Optimistic Tragedy”.
And after a strong and confident start to their career so far, Blair Davie has now finalised their eagerly-awaited debut EP ‘It’ll Be Lovely’. Featuring four newly composed singles ‘To Miss You’, ‘Lovely’, ‘Found My Person’, and ‘Edge Of A Feeling’, this new collection looks to stand as their most personal and impactful work to date.
CHit Chat
Appearing Live at Franco Manco @1pm
We are a 4-piece alternative rock band called ChitChat. We take influence from Nothing but Thieves, Foo Fighters and Royal Blood. We love writing catchy heavy music that we can all have fun with!
Cordelia Chatfield
Appearing Live at Franco Manco @12pm
Cordelia Chatfield is an up-and-coming pop artist based in Brighton.
From a young age, she’s had an obsession with words and poetry and loves to add hidden meanings and metaphors into all her songs. She found a love for music when listening to classical music with her father and soon picked up the cello at age 7. A relative of hers, who she greatly looked up to, was a poet and his poems inspire her lyrics to this day. She dreams of being able to release and write music all her life, hoping her, sometimes quite shocking, lyrics will resonate with others and become the comfort that music has always been to her.
Evie May
Appearing Live at Franco Manco @4:15pm
Evie has been singing since she was little but this last year has seen her absolutely flourish. She has been regularly performing at open mics across Sussex and has recently released her debut single "Try". She is currently in the process of recording her first E.P.
FADED GREY
Appearing Live at Franco Manco @3:50pm
Faded Grey are a 3-piece Rock band all aged 17, based in Chichester, playing Rock originals, with a hint of prog.
G!RLBAND
Appearing Live at THE FOUNTAIN @9:45pm
Despite not having any music released, this band have gained an organic fan-base and reputation playing a variety of UK festivals this summer including packed big top slots at Bingley and Splendour, as well as a main stage performance at the Isle of Wight Festival.
Referred to as “Three mesmerising voices into one rebellious package” GIRLBAND are no stranger to the big stage having supported James and Happy Mondays, L Devine, The Oozes, and Durry and they will support Jake Bugg across his UK tour this winter. Having recently put pen to paper on a deal with EMI North 2024 will be an even bigger breakout year for this Nottingham trio.
The band will soon announce a UK Tour and are already confirmed on multiple festivals across Europe in 2024.
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Ibzdagoat
APPEARING LIVE AT FRANCO MANCO @2:30PM
Fresh from guesting on last week's BBC Introducing Live Lounge on BBC Sussex/Hants, IbzDaGoat aka Jordon is a rising rapper, producer/ music engineer from Brighton/Worthing, bringing you fusions of Trap, Rap, Grime, Drill and Hip Hop.
Jack Boyd
Appearing Live at HAVANA @11:45pm
Jack Boyd is a multi-instrumentalist from Chichester. He has played at some of the biggest festivals in the world, including Glastonbury and Boomtown Fayre.
Over a ten-year musical career, Jack has run the gamut of musical genres, including Appalachian folk, Harmonium sea shanties, lo-fi spoken word electronica, all the way through to his latest album which is a jazz-infused big band project.
JEAN JAquet
Appearing Live at FRANCO MANCO @3pm
Brighton-based, no-genre-bound four piece featuring Duy, Zein, Oscar and Dash across guitars, vocals, bass and drums. Expect fun, edgy Pop, influenced by artists such as The 1975 and Talking heads.
LaurIe Wright
Appearing Live at TRENTS @9:30pm
Laurie Wright is a singer songwriter hellbent on bringing the rock n roll revival to the masses. With brilliantly crafted, high energy guitar hits, Laurie Wright and his band are destined for rock n roll’s biggest stage.
Having built a raucous following with sold out gigs up and down the country, sharpened by legendary busking sessions on the busy streets of Camden Town, Laurie is just getting started. Taking cues from the likes of The Libertines, Oasis and Small Faces, the debut album is set to put guitar music firmly back where it belongs. Get on the end of it!
Leona
APPEARING LIVE AT The Escapist @6PM
LEONA sits alongside artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Alix Page with her poetic, insightful lyrics alongside soft fingerpicking guitar. Her songs retell common feelings in a thought provoking way with sweet sounding harmonies. LEONA is for a walk through London on an autumn day, for when you finish that book, for processing your feelings lying in bed at night. LEONA writes about the couple on the train you saw that quietly brushed hands, the epic love story of a movie she’s watched, the hanging nostalgia of flicking through a photo album. Leonas music aims to amplify feelings you have, feelings of misplacement, the confusion of growing up with the gentle build in many of her songs to a full 'wall of sound' type finish
Lilypads
APPEARING LIVE AT THE Hole in the Wall @10PM
Lilypads have quickly established themselves in the London music scene through their unique songwriting and dazzling harmonies.
Winners of the Hotvox and Bingley Festival Future Icon competition, the boys have been fast-tracked to play at some of London's iconic venues, headlining The Old Queen's Head, and playing to sell-out crowds at The O2 Academy Islington.
MAX WHITE
APPEARING LIVE AT TRENTS @7:30PM
Alternative-pop artist Max White found some success after his debut EP ‘IMAGINE’ was followed by a massive UK Tour supporting Rag’n’bone Man & a UK headline tour of his own. This ‘deeply personal’ EP features bops from the heart, in Max’s unique sounding alternative - high energy, pop style.
Max has hit new heights in his career, playing to crowds of over 8,000 supporting Sam Ryder, RAYE, Will + The People, Jamie Webster, and more!
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Melissa Bel
Appearing Live at Little Monster Tap @5:30pm
Toronto-bred, UK-based singer/songwriter Melissa Bel possesses a voice that transcends musical eras and genres. It’s a voice that is timeless and soulful yet distinctly fresh and seamlessly traverses pop, country, blues and even rock. Throughout her career to date, Melissa has performed on stages across the world and opened for artists such as Kylie Minogue at Hampton Court Palace Festival, Maverick Sabre and Joey Landreth. She co-wrote Avril Lavigne’s 2018 single “Tell Me It’s Over” and has collaborated with hit songwriters like Justin Gray, Drew Lawrence, Andrea England and Ryan Cabrera.
Inspired by the likes of The Beatles, Eva Cassidy and John Mayer, her songs have become known for their heartfelt lyrics, enchanting melodies, and indelible hooks. All of these key ingredients can be heard on her newest EP “Alone Time”, a collection of six tracks produced by Kaity Rae (The Shires, Liv Dawson).
Setting the tone with lead single “Better In the Morning”, Bel reassures the listener (and herself) that things are going to be ok. The track came out in July 2021, receiving playlist support from Apple Music and was the BBC Introducing Track of the Day on BBC Radio Surrey and BBC Radio Sussex. This was followed by the poignant pandemic-era ballad “People That I Love”, which received praise from Songwriting Magazine and was added to Amazon Music Canada’s Brand New Music playlist.
It’s Bel’s hope that Alone Time accentuates the importance of slowing down, time in nature and the fleeting moments we have with our loved ones. The EP has so far been featured in Atwood Magazine and Earmilk and “Something Gained” has received strong playlist support from Apple Music.
Melissa moved to the UK in 2016, less than four months after meeting her now-husband on a fateful night in Las Vegas (the details of which can be heard in her song “Real Tonight” from her 2016 EP “In the Light”). Since then, Melissa has achieved a Top 10 in the iTunes Singer/Songwriter charts with her single “If She Hadn’t Lied”, received airplay on BBC Radio and performed across the UK including at The Shard, Tower Bridge, Big Feastival, Cornbury Festival, and Dart Fest.
MIA REED
APPEARING LIVE AT FRANCO MANCO @3:15PM
& THE Escapist @8:00PM
16 year old Mia is a solo artist from Selsey. She has already been busking and playing shows for over 2 years, and has a growing collection of original material. Now enrolled at BN1 Arts in Brighton studying songwriting for the next two years, Mia is a talented young woman whose music portrays the emotional highs and lows of love and friendship for her generation.
Olivia Stevens & Co
APPEARING LIVE AT THE GEORGE & DRAGON @10:15PM
Olivia Stevens & Co. are a smokin' hot duo blending soul infused jazz, folk and blues, featuring the incredible force of nature that is Olivia on vocals and the finest of fretwork from Stefan Rajic on guitar and harmonies.
Olivia is renowned for the inate sense of fun and warmth she brings to every live show coupled with bone deep emotion. Olivia moves seamlessly between torch song balladry, sassy soul, reflective folk and upbeat stripped back funk grooves. They take audiences on a wide ranging journey of different emotions fusing the playfulness of Bessie Smith alongside the vocal virtuosity of Ella Fitzgerald and the soulful warmth of Amy Winehouse. Their standout passion fuelled performances set them apart from many other acts, with her voice being described as containing “the smoky grit of whiskey drenched in honey.” (Blues Matters Magazine)
They have wowed audiences at numerous UK festivals including UPTON BLUES FESTIVAL, MOLD SOUL & BLUES FESTIVAL amongst many others and she’s supported the soul R n B legend Geno Washington no less than three times as well as the Craig Charles Funk & Soul show. Their music has been played on radio stations across the UK including on the BBC. Up to now she’s released four EP’s and her debut full band album ‘Walk With me’ reached no. 2 in the IBBA chart just behind Joe Bonamassa.
“Olivia’s wonderful voice accompanied by Stefan on guitar…got hold of my emotions and heart strings, evoking memories and feelings of complete joy!” Barry Hopwood – Barry’s Blues Barn
“Livvy ain’t tying to be Janis or Amy, she’s being herself and she’s got a bitchin’ voice!” Geno Washington
Pearll
APPEARING LIVE AT THE FRANCO MANCO @12:45PM
Pearll was created by songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Chloe Drew-Batty. Since its formation in 2021 and launching into the East Anglian music scene to promote the debut album ‘Volatile’, Pearll is now based in Brighton UK. Songs penned by Chloe are brought to your ears by Ruby Smyth (bass) and Lydia Thetford (drums) to form one of the most exciting indie rock bands on the circuit.
Rachel Hawker
APPEARING LIVE AT THE HOLE IN THE WALL @7PM
Rachel Hawker is a British Pop/Rock/Soul singer-songwriter from the South. Born in the seaside town of Worthing, Rachel started playing the guitar at the age of 9, writing her own songs at 11 and has been singing for as long as she can remember.
The multi-instrumentalist has been playing for audiences all over Europe over the years and takes great pride in being a genuine artist who is immersed in every part of the creative process.
From writing, recording and producing her own demos, to animating her own music videos, Rachel is the ‘real deal’.
Drawing from her influences in soul and rock, the raw power and rasp that is unleashed in her performances can only draw parallels with artists such as Janis Joplin, Sheryl Crow, Florence and the Machine and Alanis Morisette.
Having shared stages with the likes of Toploader, Laura Marling, and Andy Burrows (Razorlight), Rachel has built up an impressive list of credentials, including supporting top comedians such as Jo Brand, Alan Davis and Phill Jupitus on several variety performances at top venues across the South.
As well as performing her own material, Rachel has a talent for interpreting other people’s song’s and giving them a new lease of life.
Her vocal range and unique tone enables her to play a wide range of covers from lots of different genres.
A passionate and committed performer, Rachel’s live shows are not to be missed.
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Roda
APPEARING LIVE AT FRANCO MANCO @4:30PM
Roda is a singer/songwriter from the South Coast. She performs regularly at open mic nights and has recently written an entire score for a local play. Her haunting vocals and poetic songwriting shows a maturity in her writing beyond her years. This is a rare opportunity to see her supported by her band.
RATS! RATS! RATS!
APPEARING LIVE AT THE FOUNTAIN @10:45PM
"Rats! Rats! Rats! are an original two piece punk grunge band from Gosport.
Formed in 2022 when Andy and Rich met in a rehearsal study they have already released a vinyl EP, been on their own tour of England and headlined a festival.
Combining the best of English punk rock with the glory days of American grunge Rats! Rats! Rats! make a beautifully unique noise much greater than the sum of its parts."
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Sadie Horler
Appearing Live at Little Monster Tap @8:30pm
With her haunting vocals, Sadie performs with warmth and authenticity, captivating her audience with her engaging but unaffected presence. Her heartfelt lyrics are inspired by events and people around her with every song telling a compelling story you do not want to miss.
Her 2019 single ‘Washed up Mermaid’ was played numerous times on BBC Radio 6 by Tom Robinson after being chosen as a ‘fresh fave’ on ‘Fresh on the Net’.
BBC Introducing have described Sadie as “Phenomenal” & "One of the finest young female musicians they have discovered".
“If there’s a vocalist out there with a voice more intimate, humble and heartfelt, then I can’t remember their name right now because I’m slowly slipping into a spell cast by this bewitching West country talent” - Listen with Monger"
Sanis
Appearing Live at FRANCO MANCO @1:15pm
Brighton-based pop band: Sanis makes catchy, energetic, and emotionally charged music. A mixture of Talking Heads quirkiness, Imagine Dragons’ energy, melodic prowess, and a healthy dose of indie influence make them sound fresh, unique, and yet comfortingly familiar. Their blend of real instruments with electronic accents spices up their sound; the many layers of backing vocals give their songs an anthemic atmosphere.
SARAH COLLINS
APPEARING LIVE AT THE Hole in the Wall @9PM
Sarah Collins is a playful, upbeat singer/songwriter with catchy, well-crafted songs and infectious hooks. Backed by her band, Sarah Collins & Friends are guaranteed to bring a little magic to every live performance.
Influences include; Kate Nash, Gabrielle Aplin and Ingrid Michaelson
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Satch
APPEARING LIVE AT Havana @9:45PM
Small town born and fled, Joshua ‘SATCH’ Satchell migrated to Brighton in 2013 to pursue his songwriting career. Meeting his ‘collabobrother’ Will Nash, they formed the band “Frankie Furlow”, whose short-lived existence brought them to stages at festivals such as Glastonbury, tours across Europe, and writing trips to Nashville. Simultaneously, the young wordsmith began co-writing with artists and producers in the US, UK and Europe. Inspired by helping others to tell their stories, and bored of hearing unqualified voices misrepresenting transgender tales, he decided it was time to tell his own.
The result was his debut album “Present In The Post”, set for release in summer 2023. With lyrical candor, genre-queer arrangements, and a harmony-driven band of talented friends, SATCH is not only sonically connecting with the marginalized, leaving them feeling less alone, but imploring they share their own stories too.
SATCH isn't a project aiming to change the music industry. SATCH is a project aiming to change the world.
SOFT LAD
APPEARING LIVE AT THE HOLE IN THE WALL @8:00PM
SOFT LAD (aka Sophie Galpin) is no stranger to the music scene, having been either touring or in the studio for most of her adult life. As a musician, she is a multi-instrumentalist for SELF ESTEEM and SOAK, and previously has worked with the likes of Jessie Ware, Becky Hill, Charli XCX, James Vincent McMorrow and The Breeders. Now she has made her way to the front of the stage with her own heartfelt pop songs, releasing her debut EP ‘Maximum Feels’ in 2022. As the title suggests, the record is all about experiencing your feelings deeply. ‘It’s missed connections, unfulfilled potential, love, loss - all those things you feel anything strongly, if only for a minute’, she explains. Musically she is inspired by the 90s pop of her youth - think Eternal, The Spice Girls and Destiny’s Child, but her songs nod to indie sensibilities such as guitar solos and soaring singalong choruses.
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Space Fishermen
APPEARING LIVE AT TRENTS @6:30PM
Formed in 2021, Molly, Reef and & Harry adorned their spacesuits and started making music together during their first year in college. The Indie Reggae trio created a plethora of tunes before meeting bass boss Leyton and the newly formed 4 piece were complete. Having gigged around the country for the last 2 years, the Brighton & Guildford based band have since played with names like Dr Feelgood, The Lottery Winners, Tom McGuire & The Brassholes and have made an appearance at several festivals down south. Space Fishermen have been busy in the studio recording their current EP and can't wait to share it.
Szou
Appearing Live at Little Monster Tap @9:30pm
As heard on Spotify Editorial Playlists and on BBC Introducing radio stations, musician Szou isn’t your ordinary pop artist. From the COVID crisis to body positivity, Szou’s lyrics are a unique take on life and the universe. Fusing euphoric production, energetic beats and soulful vocals, Szou is one of the most exciting electro-pop acts to surface in the UK in recent years.
Originally from Chichester, Szou’s love of electronic music began at a Friendly Fires gig aged 12. After moving to Manchester to study, the city’s thriving dance scene influenced her music-making, powering her desire to move audiences both physically and cerebrally. She aims to make ‘deep pop that makes you dance’. Comparisons to Robyn, Haim and the score of 'Stranger Things’ wouldn't go amiss.
Since moving to London, Szou has performed in some of London's most prolific venues such as Camden Assembly, The Ned, The Grace, The Finsbury and The Sebright Arms. As a recipient of Youth Music's Next Gen Fund, 2023 is set to be her most successful year to date with several releases and performances planned. Her recent single ‘July’ has had support from Gigwise, 1883 Magazine and from Jodie Bryant.
Szou is currently in Chichester frequenting open mics at the Hole In the Wall and the Woolpack.
Tamara Hendin
Appearing Live at FRANCO MANCO @3:35pm
Tamara Hendin, or Tam for short, is a 17-year-old singer-songwriter based near Guildford. Her interest in songwriting kickstarted when she and a friend wrote a song called ‘Why do trees grow’ on the school playground aged 9 (they haven’t figured out the answer yet!)
Tash Hills
APPEARING LIVE AT Havana @8:45PM
With influences like Chaka Khan, Quincy Jones, George Benson and Marvin Gaye (to name but a few), it’s obvious that Tash Hills would be filled with funk!
Since 2020 she has released 9 singles and been featured on 3 Spotify editorials.
2022 highlights include playing the Isle of Wight festival, supporting ‘The Feeling’, ‘Toploader’ and the ‘Secret Night Gang.
2023 so far has seen Tash supporting global Hip Hop trailblazers ‘Arrested Development’, a return to the Isle of Wight Festival and a Sofar sounds performance. This summer saw Tash supporting Nu-Funk artist Jafunk at the Hootananny Brixton and a Friday afternoon slot at the Acoustic Stage, Victorious Festival.
May 23 saw Tash drop her 6th and final single ‘Who d’you think you are?’ with long-term collaborator, George Holliday. In June she released her 7th single ‘Diamond Life’ produced by UK Jazz artist James Berkeley (Yakul) and boasted a remix with ‘Crackazat’ - ‘Heist Recordings’. July’s release was Burnin’ Love and was a collaboration with Andrew Napoleon who is a modern funk and RnB producer from the UK.
Ryan Prewett is the producer for their latest single ‘Dancing Tonight’ which is single number 9 for Hills! Hailing from Nashville Tennessee; Ryan’s sound combines classic sounds with modern production and mixing and has gained over 3 million streams. He is currently the keyboardist for Country music icon Billy Ray Cyrus. ‘Dancing Tonight’ is about the love shared between two people who truly cherish each other. Much like the love story of husband and wife team ‘Tash Hills’ (Tash & Ashley Hills) who embarked on this music project together 3 years ago. They set out to make infectious, fun, music that you can always dance to, hence the title - ‘Dancing Tonight’!!
Tash is set to release one last single in 2023 in September with BBC 1Xtras cited ‘most prolific producer to come out of the UK - ‘EDBL’.
The Clubheads
APPEARING LIVE AT FRANCO MANCO @2PM
A combination of fast, fuzzy guitar riffs with explosive, in-your-face drums. An energetic, powerful and musically tight Brighton Punk band with guitar/vocals from Edson Chillery, the mighty Kal Simmons on drums, with occasional bass from Morgan Failure.
The DEFENDERS
APPEARING LIVE AT FRANCO MANCO @2:45PM
The Defenders are a brand new upcoming alternative band based in Worthing, who unite a fusion between rock and indie pop. Comprised of two guitarists, Adam & Nasma; bassist Chelsey; drummer Liam, and lead singer Rachel. Expect a cross between Green Day and Men I Trust.
Unorthadox
Appearing live at FRANCO MANCO @1:45PM
With a desire to bring back the lost hard edges of music, Unorthadox is a DIY Punk band based in Brighton/Worthing with a setlist full of fast furious noise. Comprising Jake, Liam, Eli and Tom.
Will Rendle - Solo
Appearing live at Havana @10:45PM
Only the strongest brotherhoods emerge from ten years of triumph and tragedy more passionately devoted to the cause than ever. Through car crashes and international smashes, onstage magic and offstage losses, will and the people – a creative community as much as a band – have maintained an intense faith and self-belief in the power of their music, and are roaring out of their darkest days hellbent on a bright horizon.
Originally starting out as punk ska band it wasn’t long before they started experimenting with their sound leading to a fuller dub-pop aesthetic. From there whilst exploring their interest in expansive psychedelia they slipped into surrealist psych-polka-pop phase then rolled into electro-rock whilst venturing into a futuristic r&b concoction adorned with gritty soul vibes, muse-like robo-rock riffs and operatic backing choirs with the occasional politically minded sleaze rocker track or some brooding, arabian-inflected grooves. Then came the a new phase... Enigmatic folk, hard rock, pop and, most notably, hip-hop whilst looking to bridge the gap of lil peep in his bedroom and arctic monkeys in a massive studio.
WOODRUFF
Appearing live at The George & Dragon @8:15PM
An original Bognor Regis based band playing their own funky up-beat groove pop tunes seasoned with catchy vocal hooks and garnished with heavenly harmonies.
Zak McKenner
Appearing live at FRANCO MANCO @12:15PM
20 year old Zak McKenner is a talented acoustic guitar fuelled singer/songwriter from Woking, who leads you on a journey with his melodic and memorable chord progressions and heartfelt lyrical content, he likes the idea of his music being open for interpretation, but loosely sticks to the themes of love and wanting, whilst leaving space for his guitar prowess to flourish. His kind and approachable personality bleeds through into the soft bouncy vocal delivery heard when performing. Zak’s new single ‘Mama Don’t Leave Me’ is out now!