My Top 10 Bands To Come Out Of Bristol

Bristol, UK.

By Connie MatthewsPublished 3 years ago • 3 min read

Growing up in between Cardiff (Wales) and Bristol (England) meant I was lucky enough to be exposed to both cities' music scenes. I am very proudly Welsh, and I adore Cardiff, but something about Bristol drew me in, leading to me then to move there after completing my apprenticeship.

Bristol's music scene is, without a doubt, one of the best scenes in the UK, and quite possibly, the world. With the most famous Bristol-based representatives being the likes of IDLES, Portishead, Massive Attack and of course, Bananarama, the roster is already mightily strong.

There is an endless list of upcoming bands and artists from and based in Bristol, but today I thought I would pick out my top ten, from all different genres, and why I love them. In no particular order, let's crack on...

1. Milo's Planes

When describing Milo's Planes to those who haven't heard of them before, I usually use this line:

"Bristol's Fugazi."

Fast and loud, with shouty vocals and impressive bass lines, Milo's Planes are one of my favourite bands to watch live. So much fun.

2. Pet Shimmers

With a whopping seven members (how do you fit onstage?!), Pet Shimmers' music is as pretty as their name. Synth-y goodness.

3. SCALPING

I don't even know how to describe SCALPING, I guess it's kinda tech-y, but also with some chunky guitar riffs... Just, I mean, listen to it. They're very good. Probably one of the most intense mosh-pits I've ever been in was at a SCALPING show.

4. Sugar Horse

I've spoken about these miserable goths on this blog before. Won't give them the pleasure of any further nice words on them.

5. Memory of Elephants

Not sure why, but I've always found it very hard to get into music that has no lyrics, but Memory of Elephants changed that for me. Saw them live once and that was it. I guess I'm into Math Rock now. Cool. Or maybe not cool. Anyway, if you like big riffs, you'll like Memory of Elephants.

6. Katy J Pearson

Probably the most beautiful voice and melodies in the world. Katy's voice is kind of like Stevie Nicks, but slightly more... gentle? Anyway, love her. Obsessed, some might say.

7. The St Pierre Snake Invasion

Another band that it pains me to say nice words on. Just kidding, they're very good. I think their latest album, Caprice Enchanté, was my most-listened to album of 2019.

8. Grandmas House

Oh yes, oh yes. These badass ladies are based in Bristol, but are conquering the world. I've seen them live more times than I've literally done anything else, but they're just getting better and better, and I'm so glad that they are doing so well. Smashing it.

9. Slagheap

What a joy Slagheap are. The coolest punk music with the most hilarious lyrics. Your cheeks hurt after watching these lovely ladies play a set.

10. Langkamer

West country represent. These guys have a song called The Ugliest Man in Bristol. I don't think it gets more West country than that. Their music also slaps, hence why they are on my list. Stop doubting me, just trust me. Jeez.

Anyway, there ya go. Ten bands/artists from Bristol that you should check out. There's bound to me one on their that you discover and fall in love with, and then my job here is done. Support local music. I'm like the Fairy Godmother of bands that nobody asked for.

bands

About the Creator

Connie Matthews

Hi friends, my name is Connie and I play bass in a band called wych elm. This blog is for me to write down my inner ramblings, talk about music, being in a band and just whatever the heck I want.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Keep reading

More stories from Connie Matthews and writers in Beat and other communities.