In typical Circl8 fashion, we’ve decided to start a more in-depth focus for local weekend musical events on possibly the lamest week in the summer, but we’ll struggle through, as there are still a few gems knocking about, despite the covers/tribute fodder on offer across the city.
I get it to be honest.
I recently went to an Arctic Monkeys tribute (to actually watch the support, not a fan of the band at all, debut aside), and the venue was PACKED.
And I mean sold out.
With energy prices soaring, along with inflation, etc, I guess, hand on heart, these big pulls enable venues to accommodate the smaller original acts and do their bit for the city’s scene, so we plod onwards…. attempting to keep this new blog about original music and artists as much as we can.
Friday is looking especially poor.
Like really bad. Wall-to-wall tributes or fuck all. That’s your choice.
I even went as far out as The Salty Dog in Northwich, then even further to Future Yard, which is doing a hardcore night.
Meet friends or family. Get drunk.
Or stay in, turn the lights down, and watch the mighty Sonic Trip Project perform at the Number 39 bar from a couple of months ago:
Saturday is looking a tiny bit better.
Circl8 faves Igloo Hearts are performing for HMV Chester as part of their ‘Live & Local’ Saturdays at 2pm and it’s a fantastic opportunity to see these guys for free.
Their songwriting shines with a clever utilization of classical chord progressions and haunting harmonies, drawing comparisons to iconic artists like Kate Bush and David Bowie.
Notably, they reached the finals of the prestigious 2021 Liverpool Acoustic Songwriting competition, a testament to their talent and creativity.
Adding to their impressive resume, they have delivered captivating performances at renowned events such as the international Focus Wales 2021 Welsh Music Industry festival and the Knutsford folk festival.
In recognition of their potential, they were handpicked for the esteemed Focus Wales songwriters boot camp, where they had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed figures such as Cian Ciaran (Super Furry Animals) and Llion Robertson (Welsh music prize-nominated producer).
The Hexmen take the stage at Telfords Warehouse on Saturday night for four of your hard-earned sterling.
While predominantly recognized as a blues band, The Hexmen defy easy categorization with their diverse material.
While firmly rooted in blues, the band’s distinctive characteristic has always been their energy.
Their blues performances possess a raw and aggressive quality, influenced by the punk movement.
It comes as no surprise since several band members honed their skills in the late seventies and early eighties punk scene.
Nevertheless, their music genre pays homage to the high-octane rhythm and blues that emerged from London’s pub circuit during the seventies.
On Sunday afternoon, Chester stalwarts, Deportees return to Alexanders from 2pm for another chilled session of contemporary folk to help wind you down pre-Monday. Entry is free.
Apart from that, there doesn’t ‘appear’ to be much going on for original music.
I’m sure there is and if you think we’ve missed something, or have a gig we need to know about, free to email us at circl8chester@gmail.com and we’ll get it added.
Don’t forget to check out our full listings here, or tune into the station daily from 6pm to hear our incoming playlist, both lovingly curated by our Kenny.
Have a fantastic weekend kids.
Dan Schott X