By Vicky Greer.
If you’ve been following my monthly gig guide, chances are you care about Southampton’s local music scene like I do. Whether you take the time to read my introductory rambling or you dive right into the good stuff, I want to take a moment to say thank you.
This will be my last edition of the Southampton gig guide. I’m moving back to Northern Ireland this month to explore a new music scene and begin a new chapter.
Unsurprisingly, the music scene is one of the things I’m going to miss the most about Southampton – this is the city that made me fall in love with live music seven years ago when I arrived as a fresher. From that moment, there have been many unforgettable nights in Southampton.
There was the time Fontaines D.C played the 1865, a night that showed a group of musicians on the cusp of becoming the earth-shattering band they are today. Or when seemingly every Irish expat living in the city gathered together to go wild with the Mary Wallopers. And just last week, a Self Esteem outstore that brought my favourite artist to my favourite venue. Every single show has changed me in a big or small way.
To everyone who’s checked out one of my guides, thank you for sharing my love of music. And to everyone involved at the 1865, Heartbreaks, The Joiners, and every other venue in the city, thank you for giving me a place to be completely myself.
Keep supporting the scene!
Vicky
Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th – Wanderlust Festival, Multiple Venues
After the roaring success of last year’s debut, Wanderlust Festival returns to Southampton, this time for the whole weekend. Spend the bank holiday weekend wandering between Southampton’s favourite trio of venues as the biggest names in post-punk, indie, and more take to the stage at The Joiners, The 1865 and Heartbreakers. This year, Mercury Prize winners English Teacher and Anthony Szmierek are our headliners.
The lineup is stacked, but if you’re looking for any last-minute recommendations, I’d suggest you make a point of seeing buzzy special guests Picture Parlour, dream-pop band She’s in Parties, and Welsh pop wizards Melin Melyn.
Grab a day or weekend ticket here.
Saturday 10th – The Kooks, The 1865
Vinilo have been working hard lately with all of these album outstores. This month, they’re bringing noughties indie legends The Kooks to Southampton with an acoustic set at the 1865 the day after they release their new album Never/Know. On this record, they’re going back to their roots, and there’s no better way to celebrate their new chapter than a stripped-back show in a beloved independent venue.
Grab a ticket here.
Sunday 11th – Brògeal, The Joiners
If someone takes to the stage with a tin whistle, you’re in for the night of your life. This I know to be true. The same goes for an accordion.
So imagine the fun you can have at a Brògeal gig. Combining indie rock with traditional Scottish folk, they last came to Southampton supporting fellow folk legends The Mary Wallopers. They’re right at the forefront of an exciting revival of traditional music, and I for one couldn’t be more excited.
Get your tickets here.
Thursday 15th – AJ Tracey, The Joiners
Rap is a genre that’s too often missing in a local scene where indie and rock are generally favoured. But that’s about to change as London rapper AJ Tracey brings his Not Even a Tour shows to The Joiners.
His tour aims to celebrate fan-favourite intimate venues across the UK and his upcoming album, Don’t Die Before You’re Dead. He said: “I want to showcase growth and hammer home that the UK is a melting pot of cultures. I’m proud to be British—no matter what people try to tell you,”
Limited tickets here.
Sunday 18th – ADORE, Heartbreakers
If you want to hear one of the fresh new names in Irish garage punk, head down to Heartbreakers on the 18th for a night of Adore. Hailing from Dublin, Galway and Donegal, they’ve only got a handful of singles out on streaming platforms right now, but they’ve made a name for themselves with their live shows and festival appearances. Fans of SPRINTS and Cherym will want to grab a ticket.
Tickets here.
Monday 19th – Panic Shack, Papillon
Finally, Welsh punks Panic Shack (pictured) will be playing a raucous show in Papillon, with support from Isle of Wight’s The Pill. Panic Shack are a Southampton favourite, having played a show to celebrate The Joiners’ 55th anniversary back in 2023, and after supporting Bob Vylan at their Engine Rooms show.
You’re guaranteed a good night with this lot. – Panic Shack are the very definition of fun, inclusive, and ferocious DIY punk.
Find a ticket here.
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