Magical musical venues

Expressive, diverse and innovative: Bristol’s music scene encapsulated into three words. Massive Attack and Trip-Hop, Goldie and drum’n’bass, and now IDLES and punk; Bristol has a habit of defining genres with artists the
most exciting subgenres.

Importantly, at the heart of their movements are the venues that promote them. Famed for its unwavering independence, Bristol is packed with dancehalls and stages that promise inclusivity to every community. They rely on the enthusiasm of fans and artists alike, to attend with no other intention than to let go and experience the magic of live music.

If you’re mapping out an assault on Bristol’s music venues and don’t know where to start, these four will fulfil all expectations.

THE LOUISIANA – Wapping Road, BS1 6UA

My favourite venue in Bristol, the Louisiana epitomises the city’s fiercely independent culture. Often regarded as
a gateway for burgeoning musicians on the circuit, it seems to have its finger on the pulse, identifying talent early in their career. IDLES, The Chemical Brothers and Florence & the Machine are just a few who have cut their teeth in this Bristol pub. Ask any of Bristol’s musical alumni for their favourite venue and ‘the Louis’ will be perched on the tip of their tongue. Bristol’s most famous gig-goer, Big Jeff, even has a plaque in there, cementing its place in musical immortality.

The Louisiana epitomises Bristol’s independent culture. Credit: The Bristol Nomad.

THEKLA – The Grove, BS1 4RB

As a true Bristol resident, once the good ship Thekla arrived it never wanted to leave. The boat arrived in the docks in 1983 and soon established itself as the city’s hub of artistic diversity, hosting Bristol hall of famers Portishead, Massive Attack and Roni Size. Fans of a good old fashion indie night can get their fix on Thursdays and those who like music sprinkled with a bit of cheese can sing to their heart’s content on Saturdays. It’s the
boat that rocked, rapped and skanked.

Did you know you can boogie on a boat at Thekla? Credit: Thekla

THE MARBLE FACTORY – 74-78 Avon Street, St Philip’s, BS2 0PX

Part of the huge Motion complex, The Marble Factory proudly represents the gritty underground culture of Bristol. Minimal in its aesthetics, the room facilitates the communal spirit that makes live music so special. It’s truly a safe space for audiences to discover sounds and themselves. Maximal in its technology, The Marble Factory boasts an immersive, all-encompassing audio-visual experience courtesy of its 360-degree mezzanine and L-Acoustics sound system to amplify those live experiences.

TRINITY – Trinity Road, Old Market, BS2 0NW

Located within a former church, Trinity is Bristol’s most atmospheric venue. It doubles up as a community centre and music venue, yet its combined beauty in aesthetics and acoustics allows it to attract big hitters. Ben Howard,
Black Midi, Mystery Jets and orchestral renditions of classic hip-hop albums are all booked into the venue’s future
schedule. If deep-rooted appreciation for musicianship is your thing, then look no further than Trinity.

Main photo: Chloe Hashemi

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