Ipswich offers a wide display of creative talent as well as a unique mix of nights out with new generation of promoters bringing alternative offerings to the town, says Remi Morrison, of Red Cactus Media.
Remi works with venues, musicians and other creatives and more importantly, and is proud of the town’s true mix of styles.
From drum and bass and hip hop to jazz funk fusion nights with a little bit of creative workshops thrown in, there are gems to be found at a whole host of venues across the town, she said. And here Remi shares her pick of what to see this weekend.
Friday, January 29
Front Page Fridays
Happening at one of my favourite places, Pump & Grind, we see the return of ‘Front Page Fridays’ from Ashanti Yard Official. Kicking off this night in style is the original ‘Remix Kid’, BBC 1Xtra’s, SEANI B.
The whole night is powered by the legendary Ashanti Sound System, so it promises to be a good one as the first ever party at the Pump & Grind, in Great Coleman Street. It’s going to be a wicked night dropping the hottest tracks from Reggae, Dancehall, R&B, Hip Hop and Afro beats and everything in between!
Early Bird tickets are £5 or it is £7 on the door. Music from 10pm to late.
Follow the nights on FacebookLive Music Fridays
If folk and indie is your thing, head over to Cult Cafe Bar at the James Hehir Building, University Avenue, where you’ll see the final instalment of January’s Live Music Fridays with Robin Elliot, as the headline act. Promoting his new album Green Ginger Wine, Robin is a singer/songwriter whose music fuses folk, indie and pop into socially observant narratives.
Support on the night will be from Cameron J Niven
Entry is free and doors open at 9pm.
Saturday, January 30
The Swan - Stay Tuned
Saturday sees the return of Stay Tuned at the Swan, in King Street, Ipswich.
Stay Tuned, the brainchild of Ipswich duo Villem & Mcleod offers a mix of Funk, Soul, Hip Hop, Reggae and other good music.
These two started Stay Tuned more than five years ago and have had various guest DJ’s and MC’s to perform such as Mr Thing, Mark Rae (Rae & Christian), JFB, Mystro & DJ Lok.
As well as putting on the Stay Tuned nights the pair have also been causing quite a stir in the world of Drum & Bass with releases on labels such as Metalheadz, Spearhead Records, Dispatch & C.I.A to name a few.
As well as producing numerous tracks on the soulful award winning vocalist Riya’s debut album “Sublimation” these guys are emerging with some melodic vibes. Don’t believe me listen to this as heard on BBC Radio 1& 1Xtra.
Tuesday, February 2
Creative meet-up night hosted by Pump & Grind
Normally happening on the first Thursday of every month but moved to Tuesday for this month only; Ipswich Creative Meet Up is a monthly gathering, where people working professionally in the creative sector can network, meet new people, hear about projects, organisations, businesses and have presentations from a wide platform of creative arts and media in Ipswich and Suffolk. Whether you are a student, an artists, a graphic design company, a festival director, at the start of your career or successfully delivering arts, media or creative digital work you will all be welcome.
It is hoped that the power of people coming together, to share ideas, raise thoughts and concerns, discuss ways we can promote the diverse and success activity in Ipswich. Believe me it’s happening!
Thursday, February 4
This is a huge night for Ipswich music scene. The one and only DJ Maseo, AKA Plug 3, from the legendary De La Soul is playing at Pump & Grind
Touring UK and hitting up Ipswich due to friendly ties, this date is not to be missed.
Early bird tickets are now sold out, but you can still buy a standard ticket for £7 or pay £10 on the door.
Also happening
The Mulberry Tree has three events this weekend, entry to all is free.
All Revved Up, with their blend of pop/rock covers, takes place for 9pm on Friday.
Saturday night brings the return of the amazing Broadway Clash and their Clash tribute show, from 9pm.
Closing the weekend on Sunday is The Mulberry Folk session from 8pm.
Listen at home
Don’t miss a new online talk show giving a spotlight to local talent and bringing music to the heart of the community. Founded by Curtis Blanc - The ‘Radical Lounge’ show, sees host Lauren Harrison talk to local music creators, focusing on new and independent music, artistic journeys and creative culture.
Check out episode 1 featuring Flexx Tyler
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