The List

The Face Bar

What's On @ The Face Bar

Moretallica

Moretallica

3 May 2025 - 28 Feb 2026

Moretallica are the most exciting Metallica tribute in the UK, delivering the most authentic musical performance and the most energetic show. Moretallica was formed in 2012, determined to perform the music of Heavy Metal legends Metallica to the highest standard, immediately setting them at the top level of UK tributes. A Moretallica show includes songs old and new from every era of Metallica's career, and is the most energetic spectacle and display of top quality musicianship, as you'd expect from a band with 50+ years of gigging experience across the UK and Europe. Using the same equipment as Metallica themselves ( ESP, Jackson, Mesa Boogie, Tama, Zildjian etc.) you'll only hear a more authentic performance from Metallica themselves.
Brain of J - The Pearl Jam Tribute Live
Brain of J is a London-based Pearl Jam Tribute Band that was created in 2016 by five Pearl Jam fans. Since their formation, Brain of J has been thrilling crowds in packed venues across the UK with their high-energy performances of Pearl Jams greatest hits, from Alive and Jeremy to Better Man and Even Flow. Brain of J brings an unparalleled energy to their shows and an impressive knowledge of the nuances of Pearl Jams music. Fans can expect to hear beloved classics as well as deeper cuts from Pearl Jams vast catalogue. Brain of Js performances are as passionate as they are accurate, and they strive to recreate the genuine spirit of Pearl Jams live shows. Brain of J is dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience to fans of any age.
The 900 - Tony Hawks Pro Skater Cover Band
The UK's first and only Tony Hawk's Pro Skater cover band. They have even performed live onstage in the UK with Tony Hawk himself! Expect to hear... AFI, Alien Ant Farm, Bad Religion, Black Flag, CKY, Dead Kennedys, Goldfinger, Green Day, Lagwagon, Less Than Jake, Millencolin, Motorhead, NOFX, Papa Roach, Powerman 5000, Rage Against The Machine, The Ramones, Refused, Suicidal Tendencies, System of a Down and many more.
Los Fastidios

Los Fastidios

12 Aug 2025 - 26 Oct 2025

The Los Fastidios sound is a powerful melodic streetpunk which mixes classical 80’s British Punk-OI! sounds with a lot of skanking moments, and more rock'n'roll and hardcore rhythms, sung in Italian with some touches of english, french, spanish and german languages. The lyrics come from the most cheerful street situations to more serious and involved matters which deal with social problems, such as battles against racism-fascism and any form of discrimination, for the animal rights, for freedom and against the capitalistic system
Shonen Knife

Shonen Knife

28 May 2025 - 15 Jun 2025

Shonen Knife are a ground-breaking all-female Japanese, pop-punk rock trio formed in Osaka in 1981, when Naoko Yamana first heard late ‘70’s punk-pop, particularly The Ramones. Inspired, the band crafted their own idiosyncratic songs, fashioned brightly coloured outfits and DIY albums. In 1985, K Records released ‘Burning Farm’ in the United States. Deals with Sub Pop and various majors followed. 1989 saw the crème of the alt. rock scene (including Sonic Youth, L7 and Redd Kross) covering their favourite Shonen Knife songs on the tribute album ‘Every Band Has A Shonen Knife Who Loves Them’. They toured with Nirvana (on the ‘Nevermind’ tour), The Breeders, as part of Lollapalooza, wowed the Reading Festival and Roskilde, recorded sessions for John Peel and appeared on MTV’s ‘Beavis and Butthead’. The band returned to the UK after a gap of 16 years in 2009 and since toured regularly throughout Europe gaining many generations of fans.
The Guana Batz

The Guana Batz

3 Jul 2025 - 5 Jul 2025

The Return to The Republic of Manchester after a 35 year absence, we are proud to welcome back The Guana Batz , hot on the back of last year's live over London tour the band are rareing to play ,with support from The Fantastic Epileptic Hillbillys making the short hop over the Hills from Sheffield and the Enigmatic one man scouse band Krank Williams we are sure this will be a night not to miss and remember... From now till the 1st May we will have Early birds tickets on sale at £16 + BF after that they will go up to £18+bf and £20 on the door
Snapped Ankles

Snapped Ankles

9 May 2025 - 9 Jun 2025

They came from the trees. Now settled in fertile east London, Snapped Ankles maintain the feral energy of the forest. Fight or flight. Primal motorik rhythms, the rush of white noise and post-punk angles; an aural onslaught played out on homemade log synths, electrified guitars and sticks beating hell on taut animal skin. Snapped Ankles have flourished in the sub-tropical climes of warehouse and squat parties, moving onto performance art collaborations with filmmakers and shows in unlikely locations such as barber shops, games arcades and the forests they once called home. They plough a singular furrow at improbable angles. The woodwose have discovered electricity and they’re not afraid to use it.
Club Velocity/New Mind presents Los Fastidios
Club Velocity/New Mind Promtions presets Los Fastidios The Los Fastidios sound is a powerful melodic streetpunk which mixes classical 80's British Punk-OI ! sounds with a lot of skanking moments, and more rock'n'roll and hardcore rythms, sung in Italian with some touches of english, french, spanish and german languages. The lyrics come from the most cheerful street situations to more serious and involved matters which deal with social problems, such as battles against racism-fascism and any form of discrimination, for the animal rights, for freedom and against the capitalistic system Support Juliet & The Raging Romeos
Club Velocity/New Mind presents mssv

Club Velocity/New Mind presents mssv

13 Jun 2025 - 13 Jun 2025

mssv (Main Steam Stop Valve) is an American band featuring Mike Baggetta, Mike Watt and Stephen Hodges Baggetta and Watt recorded Wall of Flowerswith drummer Jim Keltner but after releasing it Keltner was averse to travel so Stephen Hodges was brought in to tour the album; Hodges had previously worked with Watt on the latter's second solo album, Contemplating The Engine Room.The resulting trio named themselves mssv and recorded a live album entitled Live Flowers. The album, recorded live at Johnny Brenda's in Philadelphia on March 28, 2019] consists largely of songs from Wall of Flowers with "Pink Room" from Twin Peaks Fire Walk With Me "No One Says Old Man (To The Old Man)" and "Liberty Calls!" from Watt's Contemplating the Engine Room and a cover of Fun House by The Stooges In February 2020, the band announced their intention to play the 2020 Big Ears Festival The festival was later cancelled due to the COVID Soon after, mssv announced the postponement of their entire spring 2020 tour. In the same message the band revealed the September 2020 release of their first studio album on BIG EGO Records. The album would be released with the title Main Steam Stop Valve.
Club Velocity/New Mind by arrangement with Outsider Artists present John Bramwell (I Am Kloot)
As the singer-songwriter in I Am Kloot from 1999 to 2014, John Bramwell achieved a Mercury Prize nomination for 2010's The Sky At Night, a Top 10 chart position for 2013's Let It All In, numerous UK and European tours and a triumphant farewell at the Queen Elizabeth Hall with an orchestra in 2014. Now, as a solo artist, he's travelling a very different path, his stunning new album The Light Fantastic is almost a complete U-turn from his Kloot-days. Darker clouds have been banished, there are now strings and four-part harmonies and a dozen gloriously exhilarating, beautifully crafted observed songs about life, humanity, the universe and everything else. A unique both literally and metaphorically Lauren Laverne My favourite songwriter of all time Cate Blanchett [who chose Bramwell-penned Proof as her Desert Island Disk on the BBC Radio 4 show] The UK's finest export New York Times Bramwell's new songs are spellbinding The Guardian
Good Wreckin Tonight/Club Velocity presents The Long Tall Texans
LONG TALL TEXANS British trio Long Tall Texans make an exuberant mix of psychobilly, rockabilly, and eclectic punk. Formed in Brighton in 1985, the trio originally featured bassist/singer Mark Carew, guitarist Mark "Boggles" Denman, and drummer Anthony Theodotou. The band initially built up a following playing high-energy live shows at the rockabilly venue The Klub Foot. Prior to their full-length, they also recorded two songs, "900 Miles" and "One More Time," for a local compilation, Sounds of the Southern Scene. In 1987, they released their debut full-length album, Sodbusters, on . It garnered airplay on Radio 1 and helped boost their profile as they branched out into tours of Europe. Several more well-received albums followed including 1989's Five Beans in the Wheel and Saturnalia. In 1991, they released Singing to the Moon, a stylistically varied album featuring forays into blues and reggae. By the mid-'90s, Denman had left the band as a touring member; though he would continue to contribute songs to the outfit. Replacing him was guitarist Garry Castleman and saxophonist Paul Mumford, who both appeared on 1994's Aces and Eights. Although the band's recorded output slowed down over the next decade, they toured regularly. Mumford eventually parted ways with the group and in 2005, the band returned with Adventures of the Long Tall Texans. Castleman then ceded his position to guitarist Matt Windler and in 2014, the group delivered its seventh studio album, Devil Made Us Do It. ~ Matt Collar, Rovi Support Legendary-the godfathers of Surf-----the Surfin Lungs!!
Club Velocity/New Mind presents A CHRISTMAS KNEES UP WITH JOHN OTWAY
Club Velocity/New Mind presents A CHRISTMAS KNEES UP WITH JOHN OTWAY JOHN OTWAY is an English singer-songwriter who has built a sizeable cult audience through extensive touring, a surreal sense of humour and a self-deprecating underdog persona. From the age of 9, John Otway knew he wanted to be a pop star. But even at that young age, having listened to his sister's Beatles and Stones records, he knew he would never be able to do what they do. However, when his sister got the latest Bob Dylan album, he knew there was a place for him and he set about learning how to play guitar. A visit to a fortune teller would have a profound effect on the young Otway. After gazing into her crystal ball, she confirmed that Otway would indeed be a star and would have success with a blonde-haired musician. Otway took this prediction very seriously and teamed up with Wild Willy Barrett (the only musician he knew who fitted the fortune teller's description). In 1972, the pair released their first single. Gypsy/Misty Mountain was a dedication to the fortune teller who had assured Otway that fame and stardom was just around the corner. The single would be the first of a string of flops, but it did capture the attention of The Who's Pete Townshend who offered to produce a number of tracks for the duo. Despite Townshend's involvement, the duo remained on the fringes of the music scene, but continued to gain a live following with their frenetic, raucous and often chaotic performances in the pubs and clubs around the UK. Otway had to wait until 1977 and the rise of punk before his dream of fame and fortune would finally become a reality. Having caught the eye of the producers of the BBC's Old Grey Whistle Test, Otway's performance on that show would grab the attention of the watching audience. Otway, ever the showman, decided to jump on to the amplifier of his colleague during a performance of Bob Lind's Cheryl's Going Home. (Un)fortunately for Otway, he misjudged his leap and sent the amplifier tumbling as he crashed down straddling the box under the amp. The full force of the impact was absorbed by the most tender part of his body, but in doing this one simple act of recklessness and his wanton disregard for his own safety, Otway was the talk of everyone who watched that ev ening's programme. Not only did he see a surge in his audiences, sales of Otway's sixth single, the half-spoken love song Really Free increased dramatically and reached number 27 in the UK Singles Chart. An appearance on the BBC's flagship music programme Top of the Pops, where Otway & Barrett were introduced by Elton John later, Otway was finally a star. It would however, be his greatest success for some time. By 1990, his musical career had flatlined and acting work had all but dried up, Otway tried his hand at writing a book. His autobiography Cor Baby, That's Really Me (subtitled Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure) was an honest, heart-on-sleeve appraisal of his career so far and this study in self-deprecation soon found him climbing his way back to the top as the book quickly outsold all of his albums. First, he teamed up with Attila the Stockbroker touring as Headbutts and Halibuts with whom he wrote a surreal rock opera called Cheryl. He also teamed up with a talented musician from Harlow called Richard Holgarth. Holgarth soon got to work on putting together a band from a pool of musicians he had worked with in his hometown. In January 1993, the band, featuring Murray Torkildsen, Adam Batterbee and Seymour, played their first gig in the Concorde, Brighton. By the end of the year, Otway celebrated his 2,000th gig with an electrifying performance with his band in a sold out show at London's Astoria. The gig set a record for the most number of people in attendance and the most beer sold at this sadly no more venue. Encouraged by this, Otway looked at bigger and bolder ways in which he could harness this new found success. In 1995, he released the album Premature Adulation, his first album of new material in over ten years and then, in 1998, after a concerted publicity campaign, packed over 4,000 fans into the Royal Albert Hall. The show also saw him re-united with his first ever band The Aylesbury Youth Orche stra. Realising he could use his fanbase, Otway began to engage in minor publicity stunts. In 2000, a grassroots campaign saw his Beware of the Flowers Cause I'm Sure They're Going to Get You, Yeah beat the likes of Paul Simon and Bob Dylan in a BBC poll to find the greatest lyrics of all time. Voted in at number seven, Q Magazine declared the result a fix and questioned the integrity of the Otway fans. By now, Otway had been receiving birthday presents from his ever-loyal fans. Presents included a set of bagpipes, a skateboard and a Theremin. Ever the enthusiast, Otway instantly took to the Theremin - it was the instrument he was seemingly born to play - and he quickly incorporated the instrument into his set. Coming up to his 50th birthday, Otway was asked what he would like to receive. The answer was "a second hit". The success in the greatest lyrics poll had given Otway and his fans a taste of blood and there was one poll that they all really wanted to crack - the UK Singles Chart. It had been 25 years since Really Free had got to number 27 and many felt it was time for Otway to get a taste of chart glory once more. A concerted drive, including a poll scrutinised by the Electoral Reform Society saw the Barry Upton produced Bunsen Burner (with music sampled from The Trammps' song Disco Inferno and lyrics devised to help his daughter with her chemistry homework) selected as the song for Otway's triumphant return. To encourage fans to buy more than one copy of the single, he released three different versions including The Hit Mix. The B-Side to this version was a cover of The House of the Rising Sun. The song was recorded at Abbey Road studios and featured over 900 of his fans on backing vocals. Otway credited them all by name on the single's sleeve thus ensuring that many would buy several copies for families and friends as well. On 6 October, prior to his birthday gig at the London Palladium, Otway and his fans gathered outside a pub on Argyl Street to hear the chart countdown. Not knowing if they had been successful, many in the crowd feared the worst as number 10 was read out as Girls Aloud. Stood on a barrel, holding a transistor radio, Otway celebrated with the crowd as Bunsen Burner was announced at number nine. After 25 years, Otway was back in the charts and back on Top of the Pops. He was also finally able to release his Greatest Hits album. Commenting on the fact that the ti tle of this album is now in the plural, Otway was justifiably very proud of it for having Not satisfied with having two hits, Otway's next scheme would see him plan an ambitious world tour for 2006. He proposed hiring his own jet to take his band, 300 of his fans and some special guests to some of the most prestigious venues around the world. The lure of seeing their hero in places like Carnegie Hall and Sydney Opera House saw encouraging numbers signing up to join Otway on his trip, but after the initial enthusiasm rescinded, only 150 signed up and the tour was cancelled as the cost of the plane spiralled. Despite the failure of the world tour, Otway is still touring in various formats. In 2009, he was re-united with Wild Willy Barrett for The Incompatible Otway and Barrett UK tour, the duo now perform together regularly and even recorded a new album in 2011 called 40-Odd Years of Otway and Barrett consisting of re-workings of old songs and a new, previously unrecorded song The Snowflake Effect. Otway also tours as a solo act; as a duo with Richard Holgarth; and often with his band. He regularly performs Glastonbury Festival and has been a stalwart of the Edinburgh Fringe - most recently appearing in Peter Buckley Hill's Free Fringe. In 2010, Otway published his second autobiography. Also subtitled Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure, I Did it Otway was another humorous look back at the years that followed on from Cor Baby That's Really Me. In order to celebrate his 60th birthday in 2012, Otway booked the Odeon Leicester Square to show the documentary of his life. Titled Rock and Roll's Greatest Failure: Otway the Movie, the sell out screening saw cinematic history made with the final scenes of the movie being filmed from the red carpet on the morning of the film. The film was funded by fans becoming producers who, as with the Hit campaign, were all individually credited in the movie credits. Following the success of the producers' premiere, 2013 has seen Otway take the completed movie to the Cannes Film Festival and it has been screened in cinemas throughout the country. Unlike his albums, the film has been critically acclaimed - receiving a four star review from The Guardian newspaper - and has been put forward for several BAFTAs including "British Outstanding Debut" Support Damien A Passmore
Club Velocity/Good Wrecking Tonight.....presents Guana Batz/Red Hot Riot
Summer 1982 in London. The city stomped. The Meteors had created a new music and lifestyle: Psychobilly. Loads of young urban Rockabillies took a razor to their head and followed bands like the Stingrays, the Sharks, Restless or the Ricochets. At this time the young singer Pip Hancox met a brilliant guitar player named Steward Osborne. They made up a band called the GUANA BATZ. One of the most successful bands of our scene ever. They played the early Klubfoot gigs and a few Night of the long knifes. They had several hits in the independent charts and their 7 inch Im on fire from 1987 is one of the best selling records of the Psychobilly scene. In the early 90ies, after Pip had moved to the US, it seemed GUANA BATZ wanted to call it a day. But the guys came back. In October 1995 they blasted away the 2nd Wildcat Weekend in Berlin. From this time on they have come over Europe once a year. Back in 2002 the BATZ landed on a Satanic Stomp for the first time. A hell of a gig! The Weberei in Gütersloh, packed with quaffs, flattops and rockers, went mad. When the KING RAT was entering the stage the hall was boiling. Meanwhile the Guana Batz have played two times on the Satanic Stomp and at several club gigs all over Europe. Enjoy the songs of the old Psychobilly heros like Loan Shark, Im on fire and King Rat only to mention a few. Support Red Hot Riot UK Band.Rock n Roll,Neo Rockabilly,Psychobilly three piece with electric guitar,vocals, double bass and drums
Club Velocity/New Mind presents....The Drowns
Seattle rockers The Drowns have unleashed their latest salvo of blue-collar punk rock n roll: Blacked Out. Returning to the studio for this LP with longtime producer Ted Hutt (Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, The Gaslight Anthem), the band have laid down a collection of songs that fuse their varied influences brilliantly from the boogie-woogie shuffle roots of original 50s rock n roll, to the strutting swagger of 70s glam & bovver rock, to the gritty rabble-rousing of 77 style anthemic street punk into a laser-tight, cohesive sound that is unmistakably theirs. On Blacked Out, the imagery and storytelling in their songwriting is stronger than ever on standout tracks like 1979 Trans Am & The Way She Goes. There's a ripping rendition of Mud's 1973 classic Dynamite, and bucketloads of other bangers, providing proof of life for rock n roll itself! And of course, amidst all the bluster, a humanitarian concern for the struggles & stories of working-class people remains at the center of the conversation, lyrically. With this album, The Drowns have crafted a rallying call to punks, rock n rollers, and good-hearted misfits of all stripes! This album stands poised to be a game changer and the next stage of evolution for a band that has built a rabid worldwide fanbase the old-fashioned way: with killer records and relentless touring! With a band whose onwards and upwards trajectory has never wavered, this album is the next big step, aimed at launching them into the hearts of even more adoring fans, onto even bigger stages, and into even more corners of the world! Whether youre booking a punk show or a massive festival (or just going to one), youll want them on your stage! In short, if you havent joined The Drowns party yet, now is the time! Everybody's invited! Most recently, the band whose pedigree already included former members of noted acts such as Time Again & Success has recently added guitarist Christian Martucci to the lineup, whose impressive resume includes stretches with Corey Taylor's CMFT, Stone Sour and punk rock legend Dee Dee Ramone's band (just to name a few), adding another layer to The Drowns guitar heroics! Support DxSxA Local grreeeeaaaattt punkncore chaps OTUK - the Green Man A must see band. Do not miss.
Miki Berenyi Trio

Miki Berenyi Trio

9 May 2025 - 1 Jun 2025

Miki Berenyi Trio are Miki Berenyi on vocals/guitar (Lush), Kevin ‘Moose’ McKillop on guitar (Moose) and Oliver Cherer (Gilroy Mere, Aircooled). The three musicians first worked together during Piroshka’s 2021 tour. Miki and Kevin being founder members, Oliver coming in on bass to replace Mick Conroy (Modern English) who had moved to the US. When the global pandemic made touring impossible, Miki spent the lockdown months writing her memoir, Fingers Crossed, released in 2022 to widespread acclaim. To provide some musical accompaniment for the string of book events and signings, Miki Berenyi Trio was formed.
Crazy Cowboy Festival 10

Crazy Cowboy Festival 10

25 May 2025 - 25 May 2025

Featuring Hollowstar, Adam & The Hellcats, Ransom, Healthy Junkies. Black Roze, James Kennedy & The Underdogs, Leadfeather, Puzzle Tree, Eddie & The Wolves, Andras Droppa, The Dead Can Wait, No Good Sons, Mikey Ball & The Company + Poole Vigilantes! Hot food on sale all day from Mingo's Caribbean BBQ!
Summer Bash 7

Summer Bash 7

26 Jul 2025 - 26 Jul 2025

Mercury's Well Host Some Of The Uks Finest Underground Metal And Alternative Acts For Another Rendition Of Their Iconic Summer Event. Themed Around The Band's Own Vibrant Stylings, Expect Eclectic Party Atmosphere.
Club Velocity/New Mind presents Jonah Matranga
Jonah Rzadzinski Matranga is an American singer, songwriter and guitarist who has released a variety of solo material under his own name and onelinedrawing, and has previously been part of the bands Far and New End Original (an anagram of "onelinedrawing") and Gratitude. He now continues to work and tour under onelinedrawing' Support Secondary Education Tomorrow Bird
AKA The Syndicate and The Skavengers - a night of original ska and classic ska and reggae.
Formed in 2019, AKA The Syndicate are a dynamic seven-piece band descending from the various home counties of South-East England. Known for their captivating fusion of ska and reggae, they create a vibrant sound marked by soaring melodies and an electrifying brass section, all driven by a relentless rhythm. Their music not only entertains but also offers insightful social commentary on the everyday challenges faced by people in 21st-century Britain. Releasing their debut LP, AKA The Syndicate, in 2021, showcasing their impressive versatility and a diverse array of influences. The album features guest appearances from 2 Tone legend Roddy Radiation of The Specials on two tracks. With relatable social commentary, infectious hooks, and a blend of genres, the LP received rave reviews from fans and garnered airplay on independent radio stations worldwide. Following the album's success, fans eagerly called for live performances, leading to their first gig in 2021. Since then, the band has played across the UK and even secured a festival slot in Germany. They came onstage and launched straight into Two Sides of The City which set the stall out for the night ahead. Infectious and catchy soul grooves were on offer. There must be a big interest in the band as the hall was already three quarters full - Brighton and Hove news (on AKA The Syndicate supporting Bad Manners at Concorde 2) A pop-tinged reggae album that brings to mind a wide variety of other bands, from Madness at their most successful to very early UB40, and maybe even a hint of No Doubt for good measure Scootering Magazine Just got a wee snippet of AKA The Syndicate. I know I shouldnt swear but it's f★★★ing good! The best British ska / soul / reggae band going Jim Paterson, Dexy's Midnight Runners The Skavengers are a 6 piece crew based around the urban sprawl of Reading Scavenged together from other bands, we play a mix of ska, reggae and punk, with original Skanks and classic covers. High energy favourites to get your head nodding and your feet tapping, and before you know it you'll be moonstompin too!!
Red Hot Tribute Peppers

Red Hot Tribute Peppers

4 May 2025 - 27 Mar 2026

Red Hot Tribute Peppers will be bringing their powered-up-funkadelic show to The Cryer Arts on 29th May! RHTP are the ultimate tribute to the Chili Peppers, performing all the biggest hits from one of the best-selling bands of all time. Delivering a dynamic show with a deep appreciation for the Peppers' unique sound and style, they strive to recreate the bands’ legendary vibe . Igniting the stage with all of your favourite Chilli Peppers’ tracks from their vast discography, as well as deeper cuts for the die-hard fans, this is an evening that you don't want to miss!
Punk Legends Conflict at the Face Bar Reading
Conflict the Punk Band a Group of People Anarchists a Voice of Rebellion Hardened. Cynical. Bastards. an Activist Organisation a Way of Life Conflict. a Part of A Movement the Movement of All Movements the Ungovernable Force
Young Knives

Young Knives

15 Aug 2025 - 18 Dec 2025

Post-punk duo from Leicestershire featuring the eccentrically-named bassist House of Lords who count Tom Vek, The Futureheads and Gang of Four among their fans.
Culture Shock at the Face Bar Reading

Culture Shock at the Face Bar Reading

30 Nov 2025 - 30 Nov 2025

Culture Shock are an English ska punk band formed in Wilshire in 1986 by Dick Lucas previously of the Subhumans Culture Shock have played hundreds of gigs, including frequent appearances at free festivals, and released six studio albums on the Bluurg record label. Lucas' lyrics were mostly concerned with social and political issues, from cruelty to animals, Northern Ireland, war, and social alienation , but were far from angry rants, often finding a positive and empowering perspective. Culture Shock split at the end of 1989, as Bill and Nige both had young families to support. Dick went on to form Citizen Fish with Jasper, the bassist on Culture Shock's final album, and two other former members of the Subhumans.
Subhumans at the Face Bar, Reading

Subhumans at the Face Bar, Reading

25 Sept 2025 - 25 Sept 2025

Subhumans (formed in 1980) is an English anarchist punk collective best known for their quintessential debut LP, The Day The Country Died hailing from Wiltshire, England. Prior to the formation of Subhumans in 1980, vocalist Dick Lucas had played in the local band, The Mental. Lucas was then joined by guitarist Bruce Treasure and drummer Andy Gale, before former-Audio Torture bassist Grant Jackson joined the fold. Initially performing under the moniker Superhumans at the request of Bruce's mother, by the end of 1980 Subhumans was cemented with Trotsky replacing Gale on drums. In 1981 the band issued a debut demo tape which caught the attention of punk band Flux of Pink Indians, who offered Subhumans a record release on their Spiderleg Records label. That record surfaced in December 1981 as the EP Demolition War. Whilst failing to significantly raise the band's profile, the record led to the subsequent EPs Reasons for Existence and Religious Wars in 1982. The same year Subhumans formed their own label Bluurg Records, which focused on cassette recordings. In 1983, once again released on Spiderleg Records, Subhuman issued their debut, studio album The Day The Country Died. Now considered a classic and quintessential release of the anarcho-punk genre, the record has its thematic roots in George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four, epitomised on the single Big Brother. Marking the band's first solo release on their label Bluurg, Subhuman's subsequently released the EP Evolution in 1983. The full-length From the Cradle to the Grave followed the same year, as did the EP Time Flies but Aeroplanes Crash, featuring both live and studio tracks. Following the release of their third full-length Worlds Apart in 1985, the band split citing differences in musical direction. Far-removed from the band's initial hardcore recordings, the band's final release 29:29 Split Vision, showcases Subhumans more melodic, sung aesthetic. Dick Lucas went on to join Culture Shock in 1986 and subsequently form the ska-punk outfit Citizen Fish in 1990. A brief Subhumans reunion occurred in 1990, before a fully-fledged reunion tour in 1998 of the UK and U.S. In 1998 the band release an EP of previously unreleased recordings Unfinished Business, before issuing the live album Live in a Dive on Fat Wreck Chords. The band's fifth studio album Internal Riot arrived in 2007, followed by a tour of Europe and the U.S.
The Chords UK

The Chords UK

3 May 2025 - 15 Nov 2025

The Chords were, along with The Jam & Secret Affair, one of the biggest bands of the late 1970's Mod Revival scene. Their debut single Now it's Gone was released in 1979 followed up by Maybe Tomorrow which got the band their first appearance on Top of the Pops. Their debut album So Far Away reached number 55 in the national charts in 1980. The Chords broke up the following year in 1981. The Chords UK feature original band member Chris Pope on guitar and vocals along with Mic Stoner, Kenny Cooper & Sandy Michie.
headline

headline

21 Jun 2025 - 21 Jun 2025

Since releasing their debut single Ceiling in late 2020, Crushed By Waves have showcased their sound to the UK alternative rock scene - a cathartic blend of melodic verses, power-house breakdowns and anthemic choruses, which has seen the band gain a growing fanbase and the attention of industry, with singles receiving radio support from BBC Radio 1 Introducing, Kerrang! Radio and Planet Rock.
Cydonia Knights

Cydonia Knights

3 May 2025 - 1 Nov 2025

Cydonia Knights are a tribute band from Southampton, England to one of the world biggest rock bands 'Muse' who have sold over 20 million albums worldwide & won multiple Grammys, NME & MTV live music awards. Formed by Muse fans, for Muse fans, we have been playing UK music venues & festivals since the beginning of 2015. Since the start our goal has been to give Muse (& live music) fans exactly what they want from a tribute act, an unparalleled Muse experience as close to the real thing as possible!
The Dekkertones

The Dekkertones

10 May 2025 - 29 Nov 2025

The DekkerTones are a 9 piece covers band playing authentic ska and reggae from the late 60's Trojan and Bluebeat to the 2tone era.
John Mckay's Reactor at the Face Bar, Reading
Punk's enigmatic man in black is back. John created a metal shard roar with his guitar which was emulated by many who followed. Flanked by two Priscillas Jen Brown and Jola, with Billy King on bass, they are John McKay's Reactor. Support Scant Regard aka Will Crewsdon of Rachel Stamp fame and also Adam & The Ants/Gaye Bykers on Acid/Bow Wow Wow and Flesh For Lulu and others....
Vision Video

Vision Video

15 Jun 2025 - 6 Jul 2025

Vision Video return to the UK with their modern, political take on New Wave/Post-Punk/Goth. Delivering a highly-charged set of songs from their 3 LPs, - Inked In Red, Haunted Hours and Modern Horror, Dusty and the gang are back with a vengeance!
The Monsters of Rock

The Monsters of Rock

10 Oct 2025 - 10 Oct 2025

The Monsters Of Rock Live is thundering into town... With unparalleled energy and showmanship, the award-winning thunder hammer present a truly immersive 2-hour live experience, celebrating the greatest hits of the last 50 years of rock and metal. A night of authentic monster rock anthems featuring hits from Acdc, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, Bon Jovi, Black Sabbath, Guns N Roses, Iron Maiden, Journey, Kiss, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Whitesnake and of course, Queen. This is the feel-good party you've been waiting for! Find your favourite band t-shirt, call your friends, and experience the magic & majesty of The Monsters Of Rock, alive on 2025. Search Thunder Hammer On Spotify And Youtube Music.
Heathen Apostles

Heathen Apostles

2 May 2025 - 18 Jul 2025

Born of the voices of past lives and baptized in the dust bowl dirt, the Gothic Americana music of the Heathen Apostles (Mather Louth \[Radio Noir\], Chopper Franklin \[The Cramps, Nick Curran & the Lowlifes\], Thomas Lorioux \[Kings of Nuthin’\] and Luis Mascaro) harkens back to a bygone chapter of American history. Using contrasting influences such as Bauhaus, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds and The Pogues along with Howlin’ Wolf, Loretta Lynn (the band covers her classic Fist City) and Bessie Smith, the Heathen Apostles have created a style of music that at once conjures both angels and demons, and will enlighten a darkened soul. Gothic Americana is a genre that is fast taking hold around the world, in that it combines the sub-genres of gothic country & bluegrass, dark blues, murderfolk and depression-era jazz. The Heathen Apostles are amongst the first to inject all four into their incendiary music. This is an 18+ event
The Croupiers Northern Soul LIVE

The Croupiers Northern Soul LIVE

2 May 2025 - 18 Oct 2025

Brighton's The Croupiers venture into Cornwall for the very first time, with a night crammed full of Northern, Rare and Classic Soul Music for dancing like nobody's watching, performed live by a powerhouse 10 piece band, with plenty of your Northern favourites, rare gems and some proper anthems! The band continue on their mission to spread the gospel of all things Northern Soul directly to you. Expect tracks you won't have heard played live before, and that you won't hear anywhere else! Hard-Hittin' Foot-Stompin' Four-to-the Floor SOUL MUSIC - That's what we do! Not to be missed - see you 'out on the floor!' DOORS 1930 Plus DJs TBA - spinning OG Vinyl for your dancing pleasure! Tickets 18 adv. from www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-croupiers or from the venue website
The March Violets

The March Violets

26 Jun 2025 - 18 Jul 2025

Once Upon A Leeds, 1981. The March Violets strum their first riff and scrawl their first set list. Their impressive post-punk legacy stretches from 1980s BBC John Peel Sessions, indie chart success Radiant Boys EP, Grooving in Green, Snake Dance and Turn to the Sky (featured in the John Hughes movies, Some Kind of Wonderful), all the way to the 21st century reunion, headlining festivals across Europe & the USA and storming Record Store Day 2021 with sell-out double album Big Soul Kiss. And now, for the first time The March Violets are releasing their full back catalogue, with worldwide distribution via Jungle Records. Founder-members Rosie Garland (performer, poet and author) and Tom Ashton (guitarist, producer and studio owner) are joined by William Faith (musician and vocalist with Faith & the Muse, Conflict and the Bellwether Syndicate). They are excited to be back in the studio and recording their new album set for release in the summer of 2023 and also planning live dates in support of this and their back catalogue releases. They are joined by the mighty Rose Of Avalanche, one of Leeds' finest bands and purveyors of such beauties as L.A Rain, Always There etc.

↖ Back to all venues