The Scribes are a multi-award-winning hip hop three-piece whose unique blend of beatboxing, off the cuff freestyling and genre-spanning music has created a live show quite unlike any other on the scene today, with appeal ranging far beyond traditional hip hop fare.
Many people who have heard MSB play would agree but the overriding emotion that lingers and taken home in the heart after a sweat-drenched performance is joy. The infectious joy shared by six musicians at the height of their powers playing the music they love. MSB’s music is slippery when it comes to categorisation. You think you hear traces of 60s soul or possibly blues when hints of heartland rock make an appearance and a nod towards country music can easily be confounded by a psychedelic wig out. Mutter’s addiction to ‘a half-decent tune’ and the band playing what comes naturally are the main consistencies and there is always and ever will be the joy.
Craig Sutton, aka “The Flamenco Thief”, is an English instrumentalist who blends fingerstyle and percussive guitar techniques to produce a classic-contemporary Mediterranean sound with lashings of South-American substance. His music incorporates Spanish acoustic, Latin, rumba, and bosa nova with hip-hop and electronica. With a career spanning 14 years, 4 albums, and numerous tours in Europe, Asia, and South America,he has established himself as a respected artist within the independent music scene. His music features a unique hybrid palette of classic instrumental sounds and digital elements that appeal to diverse cultures. Craig’s philosophy of experimenting and trying new things is evident in his album’s progressive journey, from showcasing his raw musicianship to featuring full instrumental sections. He has toured extensively throughout his career, performing in notable locations such as Berlin, Munich, Prague, Sofia, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. He has played at major events and festivals, including Glastonbury and Fusion Festival. Craig’s touring experience has allowed him to showcase his sound to audiences from different cultures and backgrounds worldwide, creating a diverse fan base.
The Sunset Cafe was a top night-spot on Chicago’s infamous South Side. Al Capone owned it, Louis Armstrong starred there. The Sunset Cafe Stompers do play the music of that period... great tunes from Scott Joplin, Irving Berlin, Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller... but the band’s wide repertoire also features songs made famous by artists as diverse as Patsy Cline, Marilyn Monroe, the Inkspots, Fats Domino... even Elvis. Beneath it all, one can sense the elusive, shifting, pulse which defines the sound of New Orleans. In that city, ever since the 1900s, bands have been hired to attract a crowd, or to add spirit and generate excitement for all kinds of occasion. Throughout the last twenty years we have followed in that tradition: playing jazz clubs, concerts for churches, arts centres, village dances, weddings, festivals, funerals, garden parties... from our Dorset/Somerset base, down to Cornwall and up to Cumbria
New venture from John Diment of JD Revelator. Glastonbury based purveyors of dark tinged acoustic smile pop.
Bridport based Rocksteady band with a little Latin infusion. 7 piece band guaranteed to get you moving!
Andy’s one man band act is a unique blend of soulful blues music with raucous boogie, comedy, cabaret and rock and roll. The result is an exciting and entertaining show packed with heart and humour. Andy has found a place as one of the most original emerging acts on the circuit today. His distinct style has been heard and seen at Glastonbury Festival, on BBC Radio 2 and Channel 4.
Making their debut at The Ropemakers in Bridport are the mighty fine duo RIBBLE! Two Northern men, a fiddle, a guitar, and a large beard. So far, so what? Well, add in a 90s drum synth, some mighty arrangements of meaty fiddle tunes, some songs, some wrong turns, battle scars earned busking the streets of Salisbury, a barrowload of end-of-the-pier banter and the feeling that your mad rum-soaked uncle is roaring at you to dance on the tables, then you’re getting close to what Ribble is about.
A kickass band from the depths of Dorset. Playing fantastic originals and covers in their inimitable style, Alex fronts the band with her rich, powerful voice whilst singing barefoot. To her side is Jack, an ace guitar shredder, if ever I’ve seen one, capable of all sorts of classy licks on his Fender Jaguar as well as adding backing vocals as required. In the engine room is Dingo, laying down a thunderous bottom end bass whilst looking cool as, with Mel’s drumming crisp, deep and spot on always. Check out his fills. In fact, check out the whole band. You won’t be disappointed!
Aidan Simpson is a poet-singer and multi-instrumentalist native to West Dorset. His songs express a deep sense of mystery and wonder, intimately tied to the landscape of which he is a part. He has played extensively through this country and others, and has been heard on BBC Radio 2 and Radio 6 Music.
We extend a big welcome to all musicians, poets, comedians, storytellers and any other performers to come down and show your talents in the Ropemakers Open Mic Night. Hosted by the talented Chris Deacon
AUBREY BLAKELEDGE returns to the streets of Britain with a new show and a new Album “Woodland Gothic”. Once described as Rhadagast the Brown if they listened to the Cure, Aubrey Blakeledge’s unique iprov led storytelling and songwriting leaves audience laughing while having no idea what is happening, but with a definite sense of being thoroughly entertained. Compere, story teller, comedian, radio DJ, theatre critic and former frontbeard of The Sweetchunks Band, Aubrey has a crowd and is not afraid to use it. Joined on this tour are fellow troubadours: Sam Tucker Once described as 'up-and-coming' by a promoter who'd never listened to any of his music, Sam Tucker? is a skinny white kid with an acoustic guitar from Sheffield. Having spent a few years trying to grow up and deciding it wasn't for him, he started to follow his dream of being paid less than minimum wage to stand on stages, singing at strangers. Charming, personable and most of all humble, this bio was of course brought to you by Sam Tucker? Joel Fox Joel is a singer/songwriter whose shows have won over audiences in venues and festivals all over the land. His heartfelt, meaningful lyrics combined with his Folk / Folk-punk style, delivered with passion and wit, have caught the ears of many in recent years.
Gumjuaka are a 6 piece band performing our own original material with a festival vibe, bringing to the stage a fusion of Reggae, Dub, Trip Hop, Latin, Rap and World Music. Our concoction of original sounds gets people dancing with an upbeat sunshine vibe, nourishing the souls and cells of crowds far and wide. Over the last two years Gumjuaka have played in festivals including Freezone Festival, EnDorset, Wilkswood Reggae Festival, Bournemouth Reggae Weekender, Specialized Festival and music venues around the south west including Bournemouth Chaplins Cellar Bar, Southampton River Studios, Salisbury Arts Centre and Brown Street (The Chapel). Members of our band include the following: In the band we have Matt Fromage Bass Guitar, who also is bass player for Mischa and the Merry Men, Alex Hearmes playing Dub/Lead Guitar also in Free Foundation Band, Helen Kirby bringing the horn section, Keys/Synth who has played in previous bands including Pachango, Midnight Alliance, We Afro Tallawah and currently also in Mischa and Merry Men, Gouthem Healer from Chennai India, on Drums and Julian Herricotte from France bringing our Rapping & MC/Vox also current member of Mr Pacho Vibes Sound System and The Bonsai Pirates. We sometimes invite guest singers and MCs for some larger festivals and gigs. Our youngest member is Sully Fromage who is 12 yrs old and plays percussion for us he also deps for Gouthem on drums. He is amazing.
With their own unique flavour of delicate-but-distinctive folk, Fly Yeti Fly are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Blending rich vocal harmonies with intricate guitar arrangements, mandolin and harmonica, and with a warmth of spirit that radiates from the stage, the Wiltshire-based duo weave songs and stories about connection, community and the seasons, with a sound that is reminiscent of the late-’60s folk scene. Now living on their canal boat on the Kennet & Avon, their music is heavily influenced by the ebb and flow of life on the water.
Cheese Club is set for Wednesday 13th August, and this month we will feature six more delicious artisan cheeses. We will also have a selection of drinks to accompany them available for sale. Booking is essential. Cost is £9.00 per head for cheese board only.
The Fat Marrow Band play jazzy rhythm and blues with a feel good factor. Experienced and reliable we find inspiration in traditional blues music and update and embellish it with brass, harmonica and sparkling guitar to create a fantastic sound. Influences such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, BB King, John Mayall and Robert Cray are all used, and, having played together for some time, the music is tight and polished. We have played for TV, at large outdoor venues and in small local pubs and are well known in our local area of Somerset and Dorset.
Saddle up your horses, folks, 'cause we're about to venture deep into the intriguing and uncharted world of Lady Winwoods Maggot. These musical renegades formed in 1993 and defy being pigeon-holed to a musical genre like rebels in a lawless territory. They draw inspiration from the anarchy found in punk right through to the melodic storytelling of country; Not to mention the mysterious allure of traditional foot stomping folk tunes. With well over a million online streams, Lady Winwoods Maggot have managed to ensnare listeners from across the globe. They've left their mark at countless shows spanning the South of England and have even ventured as far as New Zealand. The Maggots are distinguished by Mark's haunting vocals seamlessly blending with their audacious fusion of mandolin and banjo, intertwined with the raw power of electric guitars and thunderous drums. Their music is like a dark force, drawing in those with a taste for the unconventional and the sinister. From bone-chilling, haunting ballads to satirical protest songs that gleefully expose the absurdities of the world. And just when you think you've got them pegged, they'll unleash one of their traditional style instrumentals upon you!
Robert Brown is an emerging singer songwriter with obvious comparisons such as Nick Drake, Davy Graham and Jimmy Page, not only in his writing but with his remarkable finger style technique.
50 Ft Queenie dare to pay homage to PJ Harvey, capturing the essence of her seminal work authentically yet interpreted in their own unique style; taking the audience on a rousing journey through the iconic artist's discography!
Having supported legends such as Neville Staple from The Specials and The Beat ft Ranking Junior, D’Ska Assassins is one of the most popular and in-demand ska bands in the South West, performing classic ska covers and their own infectious originals. D’Ska Assassins is a six piece, uptempo Ska band performing a mix of classic ska covers and originals. Our love for Ska music shows through in our performances, full of enthusiasm and great tunes… guaranteed to get the audience up singing and dancing. We have headlined festivals, performed live on radio and supported Ska music legends.
Sublime Sunday sounds from two of the finest local musicians. Blues orientated with a host of other influences this should prove to be a sensational afternoon of fine music.
The Sunset Cafe was a top night-spot on Chicago’s infamous South Side. Al Capone owned it, Louis Armstrong starred there. The Sunset Cafe Stompers do play the music of that period... great tunes from Scott Joplin, Irving Berlin, Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller... but the band’s wide repertoire also features songs made famous by artists as diverse as Patsy Cline, Marilyn Monroe, the Inkspots, Fats Domino... even Elvis. Beneath it all, one can sense the elusive, shifting, pulse which defines the sound of New Orleans. In that city, ever since the 1900s, bands have been hired to attract a crowd, or to add spirit and generate excitement for all kinds of occasion. Throughout the last twenty years we have followed in that tradition: playing jazz clubs, concerts for churches, arts centres, village dances, weddings, festivals, funerals, garden parties... from our Dorset/Somerset base, down to Cornwall and up to Cumbria
Dryadic's inimitable balance of trad, new, romantic, feel-good and rousing traverses an acoustic spectrum with a folk-pop core and feisty smatterings of roots and gypsy at the edges. Seamlessly smashing out feminist protest tracks, dreamy folk songs and unequivocally epic ballads with guitar, fiddle, keys, double bass and stomp. Rhythmical mix-ups underpin candid lyrics, heart-soaring hooks and intoxicating vocals to masterfully command the most diverse audience. Dryadic have toured Europe, played notable stages such as Glastonbury Avalon, Chai Wallahs, Brighton Pride, Drayton Arms Theatre, Hackney Empire and is a regular at countless UK festivals. Dryadic have played with Heather Peace, Grace Petrie, O'Hooley & Tidow and duetted live with the eminent Nadine Benjamin MBE.
A Musical Culture Clash Feat. Foot Stompin' Sing Along Tunes, Rhythm Tap Dance Beats, Fiery Percussion & a Whole Load of Positive Vibes! Founded on the backstreets of Barcelona and influenced by old school folk & hip hop sounds, alternative rock, experimental and dance music, the band's life began with an exploratory period of intensive recording where they released three limited edition albums over two and a half years. Some songs went on to be featured on Spanish & UK radio. In September 2021 the band purchased an old motorhome and sought to put the pandemic behind them by hitting the road to do what they love the most. Since then they have played countless shows here, there & everywhere including the Isle of Wight & Glastonbury festivals entertaining audiences week in week out with their rebel rousing show. Now based in Plymouth (South West England) where they continue to evolve the percussive 'Urban Folk' sounds of their live show that uses rhythm tap dance in a bombastic & visceral manner and more often than not sees the audience take to the stage with them to sing on mass. They have just released a new album ‘It Takes Courage To Be Happy’ & as ever the band cease to remain static and continue to look for new innovative ways forward with their music.
Jim Reynolds is a guitarist and singer who writes and plays an eclectic mix of music. The individual pieces tap into blues, ragtime, rhythm and blues, music hall and folk traditions. Some are extremely sensitive songs about life, people and relationships, while others are tongue in cheek.
Indie folk rock duo, The Kahunas bring hypnotic Waa Waa driven violin riffs on top of a driving dance beat. Melodic harmonies and vocals, original lyrical content & digeridoo loops. The pair have been writing, recording and performing together for nearly 4 years. Their musical pendulum swings between upbeat dance folk rock and heart felt love songs. When they started out, The Kahunas sold everything they owned and converted a van that they bought off the water board and moved out onto the road. Tash and Brian risked it all to follow their dream No safety net and no plan B. From there, the multi instrumentalists travelled up and down the country from gig to gig, making just enough money to survive, for 3 amazing Summers and 3 brutal Winters, picking up a loyal fan base along the way, from 9 years old to 90, their music seemed to resonate across the board. . The Kahunas music reflects the places they have been, the people they have met and their amazing journey of being in a relationship, a band and living in a van together with their trusty side kick Roadie (Their little dog)! The duo are now flying high on the festival circuit, playing at the likes of Boomtown, Beautiful Days and Sidmouth Folk Festival to name a few, this Autumn also embarking on their first UK headline Tour as well as having featured on BBC Introducing and playing live on BBC radio Devon & Cornwall.
Lost Revellers are a four piece original folk band from East Sussex. Their music draws on Gypsy jazz, tango, celtic and Eastern-European folk, and mixes traditional instruments with polyphonic electric string and synth sounds. Jazz and blues infused violin solos intertwine with soaring accordion melodies, infectious bass riffs and fiery percussion to make a unique fusion. Since releasing their debut ep in 2017 the band have toured extensively in the Uk, performed in Germany and had their music used in films and played on radio including BBC Radio 3. Their first album Midnight Circus was released in 2019 and their new album Sunrise and Seamonsters was released in April 2023.