The List

The Water Rats

Legendary London music venue, now under new ownership, which has a prestigious history including Bob Dylan's first UK gig in 1962, The Pogues first gig in 1982 and Oasis' first London gig in 1994. Located in the centre of Kings Cross, the venue still provides top quality music as well as a wide selection of drinks and food.

What's On @ The Water Rats

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 Bon Jovi Experience

The Bon Jovi Experience

16 May 2025 - 20 Mar 2026

Ranked number 14 in Q Magazine’s top 50 bands of all time and inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame, Bon Jovi is a household name the world over. With front man and namesake Jon Bon Jovi at the helm since they formed back in 1983, the New Jersey band have sold over 120 million albums worldwide, performing more than 2,600 concerts in over 50 countries for 34 million fans and counting. In tribute to this incredible musical talent, The Bon Jovi Experience was born and since 1994 have become the only band to have performed live on stage with Jon Bon Jovi himself. Lead singer Tony Pearce’s striking resemblance to the original front man creates an unrivalled tribute not to be missed. “The best Bon Jovi tribute band I’ve ever watched” Jon Bon Jovi Endorsed by Jon Bon Jovi himself, the official tribute band to Bon Jovi perform all over the world to sell-out crowds. As the world’s leading tribute, The Bon Jovi Experience are often copied but never equalled, performing all the hits you know and love including, “Livin’ On a Prayer”, “Always”, “It’s My Life”, “You Give Love a Bad Name”. This is a tribute band.
This Feeling

This Feeling

3 May 2025 - 3 May 2025

London's rock'n'roll/indie/mod night tours the country. "We are living in a world where guitar music has been marginalised so what This Feeling is doing at the moment is vital. This Feeling is the best club in the UK for future Rock and Roll stars. They believe in the power of guitar music and WHEN Rock and Roll makes it's glorious comeback you can bet your arse you will have heard it first at This Feeling. ONWARDS." Noel Gallagher.
Dom Martin

Dom Martin

1 May 2025 - 26 Nov 2025

Dom Martin, a 28-year-old Belfast born singer-songwriter, has recently burst onto the UK scene amid high praise for his debut EP Easy Way Out. A solo artist performing his own material, Martin's finger-style acoustic guitar evokes shades of John Martyn and Richard Thompson, with self-declared blues influences courtesy of Howlin' Wolf and Muddy Waters. Expect the driving rhythms and compelling swing guitar of pieces such as The Rain Came.
Heartbreak: The Tom Petty Show

Heartbreak: The Tom Petty Show

17 May 2025 - 17 May 2025

A special night celebrating the legendary music of Tom Petty, one of the biggest selling artists of all time, featuring music from across his career including Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Travelling Wilburys. - Pete Wade - guitar/vocals - Pete Somerville - bass - Paul Tsanos - drums - Alan Wilkes (Vinny Peculiar) - keys - Mark Noonan - Special guest Virginia Haze.
Bella Hardy

Bella Hardy

29 May 2025 - 29 May 2025

Bella Hardy, the inimitable voice of modern folk, established her reputation as a songwriter when her first original composition Three Black Feathers earned a BBC Folk Award nomination in 2008. Bella has since become a regular on radio and television, notably singing solo in a sold-out Albert Hall at the Proms. She's written and recorded with everyone from Beautiful South founder David Rotheray to folk luminary Eliza Carthy, and performed with the great Mary Chapin Carpenter on her UK tours. She learnt the songs of Chinese farmers during her time as British Council Musician in Residence in Yunnan Province, spent a year in Tennessee as a ranch hand, and sat on the moors of her beloved Peak District with only her fiddle for company. With the ability to conjure and twist stories that call straight to the heart, her themes of displacement and home, lost and found love, heartache and joy, are delivered with her unique, disarming honesty, and the acclaimed crystalline voice that won her BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Singer of the Year 2014. Brit folk's finest Mojo A fine, no-nonsense interpreter of traditional music and an excellent songwriter The Guardian Few are as adventurous and intriguing Songlines Stunning there is an aura of sophistication that will win over listeners who never set foot in a folk club The Sunday Times
'Lucky 13th' London Bowie Event

'Lucky 13th' London Bowie Event

14 Jun 2025 - 14 Jun 2025

Live Bowie themed Music Event in support of Terrence Higgins Trust (100% not for profit) Live music featuring: The Bowie Contingent, Paul Henderson solo acoustic, Monica Frank, Clare Hirst (Bowie Live Aid) with Molly Barnes Plus ~ Auction/raffle of Bowie collectable memorabilia.
Seattle Thrift Store

Seattle Thrift Store

3 May 2025 - 29 Nov 2025

Seattle Thrift Store are a tribute to the Grunge scene coming out of the Pacific Northwest in the early 90's. Playing songs by Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, Temple of the Dog, as well as associated acts like Hole, Smashing Pumpkins, The Pixies, Foo Fighters and more! Performing their MTV Unplugged special with 45 minute set of acoustic songs in an atmospheric setting paying homage to the legendary MTV Unplugged Specials, followed by a second set of 1 hour plus Grunge anthems. A 5 piece band, Seattle Thrift Store faithfully recreate the sound of all these legendary bands with an extensive repertoire of songs from the era.
Echoes of Floyd - The Water Rats

Echoes of Floyd - The Water Rats

10 May 2025 - 10 May 2025

Introduction:TICKETS 16 Premier Pink Floyd Tribute bandOn Thin Ice, return to this iconic London events venue with thier unique and spectacular show. The venue has a prestigious history including Bob Dylan's first UK gig in 1962, The Pogues first gig in 1982 and Oasis' first London gig in 1994, along with a roll call of other household names throughout the years from Katy Perry to The Courteeners to Ra Ra Riot. The Show: (doors at 7pm - show start approx. 7:45pm) This year we will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the album ' Wish You Were Here'. Released in Sept 1975, the album includes some epic and well know tracks which we will be recreating and paying tribute to. The show will also features meticulous detailed musicianship, a stunning light show with supporting videos and over two hours of incredible music every Floyd fan would expect and love! Join us to share our passion for Pink Floyds music as we delve deep into the bands songbook history. Expect authentic recreation of iconic songs from albums such as The Dark Side of The Moon, Wish you Were Here, Animals, The Wall and new for 2025, Division Bell & Meddle including the much requested epic, Echoes! A true celebration of everything Floyd. Warning, the show contains flashing lights, laser effects and visual show. Notes: We offer free of charge carer tickets for our events. Please email [email protected] for more details and for your discount code, (a proof of disability will be required).
James Maddock

James Maddock

10 Jul 2025 - 17 Jul 2025

New York based singer songwriter returns for another show at Smokey Joes following 2 sell-out appearances in 2017 and 2018
The DekkerTones at the Water Rats 2025
Get ready to skank the night away! The DekkerTones are set to ignite the stage at the legendary Water Rats in King's Cross, London, on Saturday, 2nd August 2025. This iconic venue, renowned for hosting historic performances will once again come alive with electrifying energy. "What an amazing night we had at The Water Rats in central London last year! Fantastic venue and staff, brilliant crowd that danced and sang along all night. Lets do it again!" Now, we're back to deliver another unforgettable night of classic ska and 2 tone tunes. Don't miss your chance to be part of this musical journey! Join us for a night of infectious rhythms and skaful melodies. Let's make this a night to remember!
Marc Bolan School of Music & Film Fundraising Evening
We invite you to an EXCLUSIVE NIGHT of fabulous music at the legendary Water Rats venue in London's Kings Cross on Friday, 27th June to raise much needed funds for the MARC BOLAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC & FILM which is in Sierra Leone and was inspired by MARC's partner, GLORIA JONES, who is planning to join us on the night!!! Music, in no particular order will be provided by THE TRANQUILIZERS (T.REX & Rock), the POUK HILL PROPHETZ (GLAM & Rock), PUNKY REGGAE PARTY (CLASH & THE JAM) and Jazz Pioneer, KEVIN DAVY too!!! Everyone there will receive an EXCLUSIVE LIMITED EDITION Tee Shirt on arrival, which is included in the ticket price, PLUS a SIGNED ROLAN FELD CD too!!! Making a difference through music!!!
Louis Philippe & the Night Mail

Louis Philippe & the Night Mail

12 Jul 2025 - 12 Jul 2025

Louis Philippe Based in London for over three decades, French singer-songwriter Louis Philippe came to prominence in the late 1980s as protagonist and house arranger of the famed él records label, mixing sunshine pop, jazz, classical music and French chanson in a career that has seen him release twenty albums under his own name and feature on many more with artists such as Cathal Coughlan, XTC's Dave Gregory, Bertrand Burgalat, Sean O'Hagan, Mathilde Santing, Gamine, Stars, Stuart Moxham and Testbild! among others. He has toured extensively throughout Europe, Japan (where he has had four Independent Top 30 singles) and the USA, where his song "She Means Everything To Me" topped the campus radio charts in the late 1990s. He's been working with The Night Mail (Andy Lewis of the Paul Weller Band, Ian Button of Thrashing Doves and Death in Vegas, and Austrian singer-songwriter Robert Rotifer, a trio now augmented by Louis' long-time collaborator, Danny Manners of Big Big Train) since 2017, releasing the critically-acclaimed Thunderclouds album on Tapete records, which will be followed in May 2025 by The Road To The Sea. Stuart Moxham Stuart Moxham was the main creative force behind legendary Welsh trio Young Marble Giants, whose Colossal Youth album is now considered one of the greatest and most influential albums of the post-punk area. Following the split of YMG, Stuart set up The Gist! with his brother Philip, before releasing records under his own name as well as collaborating with artists like Lydia Lunch, Barbara Manning and Louis Philippe, with whom he has recorded two duet albums, the second of which, The Devil Laughs (2020), became a favourite of the BBC's Freak Zone. His songs have been covered by many artists, including Courtney Love's Hole (Credit In The Straight World) and Etienne Daho, who had one of his biggest hits with a French language version of the Gist!'s Love At First Sight
Leo Middea

Leo Middea

19 May 2025 - 31 May 2025

Leo Middea was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1995 and currently resides in Barcelona, Spain. He is a singer, composer, and instrumentalist. Over his 10-year career, Leo has studio albums, each reflecting different phases of his life and career: Dois (2014), A Dança do Mundo (2016), Vicentina (2020), Beleza Isolar (2020), and Gente (2023). Leo is reinventing Brazilian music by blending traditional genres with influences from diverse cultures. His music has garnered over 10 million plays on Spotify, and his captivating performances have sold out concert halls across Europe and Brazil.
Chris Eckman

Chris Eckman

19 Jun 2025 - 19 Jun 2025

A rare UK show by Chris Eckman . Eckman is one of those songwriters with the alchemist's touch. He's proved it over the years as the songwriter of the Seattle rock-folk band The Walkabouts, as well as across a lauded six album solo career. His songs have been recorded by Townes Van Zandt, Steve Wynn, Willard Grant Conspiracy (and others), and his last album, the spare, haunted Where the Spirit Rests, won the prestigious German Record Critics Award (Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik) in 2021. Three and a half years later he's back with The Land We Knew the Best, and new stories to tell.
Players Please! The Players Part III. A talk by Keith Fawkes & Richard Norman
Keith and Richards THIRD presentation continues with the history of the Players Theatre, a legendary British institution. Using archive footage with examples of how the Players company became an integral part of the The Good Old Days. One of the successful collaborations of the Players Theatre was their involvement in televisions long running tribute to music hall The Good Old Days. This well-loved series ran for thirty years from 1953 to 1983, spearheaded by Barney Colehan who succeeded in bringing to his shows both minor and major artistes from the British Isles and the Continent. A highlight of the evenings show were the scenas performed by the Players, in addition many of the Players artistes performed in solo or duet acts. Leonard Sachs was not only the chairman at Leeds City Varieties but also a founder of the original Players Theatre Club. Doreen Hermitage, late Chair of the British Music Hall Society, was the choreographer at the Players Theatre and also at the Good Old Days at Leeds City Varieties. This will be a full evening start at 7pm with an interval. Ending c.9.30pm For access information please check https://www.thewaterratsvenue.london or call The Water Rats on 020 7833 3312. A booking fee will be added to your ticket price when you check out. This helps us to manage the running costs of our events and administer the box office.
Beyond The Ballroom - British Dance Bands in Variety Theatre. A talk by Catherine Tackley
Having developed to accompany social dancing, British dance bands frequently topped the bills of variety theatres between the Wars as successful acts in their own right - performances that were extremely demanding of the musicians involved. These extended band acts influenced the presentation of dance bands in the ballroom and especially on radio and television. This talk is illustrated with examples from a range of bands, and makes special reference to Billy Cotton, who continued to present his band in variety-derived formats until 1968. About Catherine Tackley Professor Catherine Tackley is a musicologist at the University of Liverpool specializing in jazz and popular music. She has written two books The Evolution of Jazz in Britain: c. 1880-1935 (Ashgate, 2005) and Benny Goodmans Famous 1938 Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert (OUP, 2012) and co-edited Black British Jazz: Routes, Ownership and Performance (Ashgate, 2014). In 2022-2024 she held a Leverhulme Major Research Fellowship for a project on British Dance Bands. For access information please check https://www.thewaterratsvenue.london or call The Water Rats on 020 7833 3312. A booking fee will be added to your ticket price when you check out. This helps us to manage the running costs of our events and administer the box office.
MFC Chicken LP Launch at The Water Rats, London
Come and join MFC Chicken for the London launch of their brand new LP "Milk Chicken". The band will be joined by London's swingin garage blues combo The Moonlight Sirens, TV theme veterans The Adventures of Parsley and Dancin Doc Zioli spinning vinyl classics!
Viva Morrissey appearing Live at The Water Rats, London
VIVA MORRISSEY are a highly respected tribute to MORRISSEY, formed and based in Manchester. The VIVA MORRISSEY live set includes many much loved THE SMITHS classics alongside some of MORRISSEY'S best-known and most-loved songs. Focussing on present-day Morrissey live shows, the Viva Morrissey presentation is markedly different to tributes to The Smiths.
Phil 'Swill' Odgers and Friends

Phil 'Swill' Odgers and Friends

20 Dec 2025 - 20 Dec 2025

What better way to celebrate the festive season than our traditional get-together at The Water Rats in Kings Cross this December Join us for a rockin afternoon as Swill and friends perform the usual smorgasbord of story, song, and, of course, some great surprises. These special show's are always a delight, with a truly special atmosphere. That's why they sell out well in advance. Matinee show only this year. So, book your Christmas treat early.
Beau Bowen // "the Out Of This World Rock Show"
Beau Bowen are Touring "The Out Of This World Rock Show". Expect the unexpected, and grab your tickets now! Gabrielle Ornate will be supporting BEAU BOWEN on their Tour this year, and will be showcasing a spellbinding message for the subconscious. Presented by Beau Bowen. This is an 18+ event
Tony McCarroll (Oasis) QnA - Hosted by John Robb
Tony McCarroll of Oasis talks with John Robb about the formation and early years of the the world's biggest band. The man behind the beats of Supersonic, Live Forever, Slide Away ... Definitely Maybe, The Masterplan and What's the Story's.. Some Might Say Signed and exclusive merchandise will be on sale at the event and can be bought from www.tonymccarroll.com
Shake Some Acton #95

Shake Some Acton #95

24 May 2025 - 24 May 2025

A special line up of amazing bands for our good friend,Vince Mahon on his Birthday. From Helsinki,Finland, the fantastic Surf Rock sound of MARY JANE HAWKINS. Get yer Woody and ride on the crest of a wave.. Superb. THE MCCURDY BROTHERS. East Anglian duo playing hard driving Hillbilly R n B! THE SPACEWASTERS. Great Psychobilly Rock n Roll with Garage Punk thrown in. A brilliant live band. From Malta, DROWNING SOEROWS. Mediterranean Rock n Roll. MORGELLONS. A special performance ( including Vince on vocals )of a selection of songs from their 2 albums. Post- Punk Rock. D.J Jeff Munday on the wheels of steel. What a banger of a line up!
Clementine Lovell Album Launch

Clementine Lovell Album Launch

24 Jun 2025 - 24 Jun 2025

After a run of sell out London shows, Clementine Lovell will be launching her debut album Westbound. A very special evening of music and guest appearances, sharing her magical voice, fine musicianship and song writing skill with characteristic warmth and storytelling. Clementine's voice has been described as Emmy Lou Harris meets Joan Baez, shimmering and soaring vocals influenced by the old school sounds of folk rock legends such as Sandy Denny and Jaqui McShee. Her music is rooted in both English and Irish folk, with songs and stories inspired by the places where she grew up: the beautiful apple orchards of Herefordshire and the rugged coast of West Cork. In her interpretations of traditional material, she uses the dark bassy drones of her accordion and weaves her voice with the treble harmonies to create atmospheric versions of ballads and folk songs. Her original material demonstrates the ability to tell personal stories in a way that feels universal. It moves her audience to tears and laughter as she engages them with the stories of ordinary people, and the struggles, joys and emotions that connect us and make us human. Clementine will be joined by her two excellent musicians from the Clementine Lovell Trio: Carmen Ruiz Vicente on percussion (Dom Glynn & His Sunday Best; Savannah Gardner) and Duncan Menzies on fiddle (Copper Viper; Club Debris), as well as a host of special guests who appear on the album. These will include James Keay (Sam Lee), Tom Leary (Feast of Fiddles) and Robbie K Jones (Track Dogs)
Liminal Tales: The Bizarre Bazaar

Liminal Tales: The Bizarre Bazaar

1 Jun 2025 - 1 Jun 2025

Step over the threshold and join us for Liminal Tales, an evening of short stories of the uncanny and bizzare read before a live audience. Stories of distorted worlds and strange occurrences, where reality and fantasy sit side by side and the line between is often indistinct. Hosted by Paul M Bradley, Liminal Tales promises to be an evening youll never forgetno matter how hard you try. Doors open at 6:45pm, with the show beginning at 7pm, and ending around 9:30pm. After the show, there will be time for mingling, networking and getting to know fellow creatives both onstage and in attendance. Seating is unallocated in a cabaret style.
A Risky Business: Japanese Acrobats in Victorian Britain. A talk by Pernille Rudlin
Some of the first Japanese people to settle in Britain and raise families here after Japan opened up to the rest of the world in the 1860s were acrobats, jugglers and magicians. This talk will focus particularly on Tamamoto Chiyokichi, a rope walker, who left Japan at the age of 10. After touring the world, including fighting on the British side in the Zulu war, he settled in Britain, married a British woman with whom he performed in music halls and circuses, and was apparently a founder member of the Variety Artistes Federation. Photo credit: Robert Sayers. About Pernille Rudlin Pernille Rudlin lived in Japan as a child, but spent her summer holidays with her father helping out on his touring theatre shows on south Devon beaches. She now runs her own business focused on cross cultural communications for Japanese companies and their partners but in her spare time has been researching the Japanese performers who came to Britain and settled. Her research can be seen on www.ninjin.co.uk. She is also a trustee of the Japan Society and non executive director of Japan House London. For access information please check https://www.thewaterratsvenue.london or call The Water Rats on 020 7833 3312. A booking fee will be added to your ticket price when you check out. This helps us to manage the running costs of our events and administer the box office.
David Devant and his Spirit Wife

David Devant and his Spirit Wife

20 Dec 2025 - 20 Dec 2025

Once again the stage of the Water Rats is taken over by the otherworldly presence of David Devant and his Spirit Wife. A multisensory journey through a quarter century of perfect pop awaits us, With songs from the most recent Cut Out and Keep Me album right up there with the very best of this magnificent body of work, we are in for a real treat, All done by kindness. With the brilliant Tuppenny Bunters as the perfect way to open proceedings, this is your ideal festive night out, All wrapped up and ready, All previous Devant performances at this lovely venue have sold out well in advance. This will no doubt do the same. Book early.
Alice In Wonderland Psychedelic Summer Shindig
London's World Famous Psychedelic Nightclub is back hosting a Psychedelic Summer Shindig at The Water Rats. Live on stage will be the sensational Crystal Teardrop with special guests the amazing Jack Cades and the fantastic Embrooks. Alice In Wonderland DJs will be spinning the very best of classic Psychedelia, Garage, Surf and Freakbeat.
Jack Frohlich

Jack Frohlich

5 Sept 2025 - 5 Sept 2025

Jack Frohlich is back for one night only this September. Live at The Water Rats in Kings Cross on Friday, September 5th 2025. Jack Frohlich is a London based artist making another ‘one night only’ return. Frohlich’s playful lyrics represent serious issues that many young people face in todays world, and are accompanied by exciting melodies and interesting chord progressions inspired for Jack’s love of Jazz and Indie Rock. Presented by Gotobeat Ltd. This is an 18+ event
Ranagri

Ranagri

14 Jun 2025 - 23 Nov 2025

Ranagri produce an electrifying mix of virtuosic instrumentals, haunting melodies, vivid storytelling and their unique take on old and new folk songs. The London based band are a combination of Irish and English musicians; Dónal Rogers (Vocals/Guitar), Eliza Marshall (Flutes/Whistles), Ellie Turner (Electric Harp) and Joe Danks (Bodhrán/Guitar). Ranagri were delighted to secure a record contract with Grammy Award Winning Record Label 'Stockfisch' in 2014 where they recorded the highly acclaimed SACD hybrid album 'Fort of the Hare'. They also published a book 'Song Folk Art' through Robinswood Press with an accompanying album 'Tradition' recorded throughout 2014. In 2015 Ranagri collaborated with legend crooner Tony Christie of 'Amarillo' fame, recording an album entitled The Great Irish Songbook, taking Tony back to his Irish Roots, and bringing their own style to many of the golden old Irish tunes that they grew up on. This was signed with both Stockfisch and Wrasse Records, and was followed by a large tour of the UK and Germany as part of Tony's Golden Anniversary Tour. Festival performances include Cambridge, Gate to Southwell, Wath, Stourbridge, Trinity, Bloom and Purbeck Folk Festivals. No strangers to large venues, Ranagri have performed at Birmingham Symphony Hall, Fairfield Halls, The Union Chapel, Buxton Opera House to name a few. Combining their love for world music, they collaborated with top Indian Musicians Kuljit Bhamra OBE, Sanjay Guha, M Balachander and members of Britten Sinfonia at The Bhavan Centre, London. In 2016 Ranagri worked with Grammy-nominated producer Graeme Pleeth on their latest album VOICES (recorded at Real World Studios) which combines their own songs and instrumentals with traditional folk Songs such as High Germany and The Snow It Melts The Soonest all performed and arranged in Ranagri's inimitable style. 2017 has seen Ranagri on tour with Justin Currie (of Del Amitri) at Islington Assembley Halls, Perth Concert Hall, Holmfirth Picturedrome and Cambridge Junction. They are currently finishing off writing their new album which will be recorded at Stockfisch early in 2018. Quotes and Reviews There's little to use as a point of reference when you discuss the sound created by Ranagri ... stunning, dazzling, remarkable...any of those will do, however the overriding word is different; and you could throw exciting in there too. Tim Carroll, FolkWords You're unlikely to hear anything more irresistible and more folky this year. Mike Ainscoe, Louder Than War Ranagri - both on the new album 'Voices' and on the stage - are a band that deliver a great sound. If they're not playing near you, buy the album, if they are - buy the album and go see. Also 'album of the week' Fatea Magazine Neil King, Fatea Magazine Creating a trademark sound that's becoming ever more familiar as they continue to make waves on the UK and European folk scene. Folk Radio UK "How often do you hear a sound that's completely new and immediately makes you want to dance? I'll be following Ranagri around, I hope they don't mind..." Katie Derham - BBC Ranagri's flute and harp infused set who wasn't conjuring up visions of the airier moments of sublime Jethro Tull was pitifully short, yet gave enough of a flavour to mark them on the list for the next possible wallet lightning raid on the CD stall. Mike Ainscoe - Louder Than War (review of Cambridge Folk Festival 2015). The standard of musicianship tonight was second to none as the band delivered two excellent sets. The band's musical magic was evident in some of the most flawless playing the Wheelhouse has been witness to over the last 77 shows the venue has staged. Allan Wilkinson - Northern Sky Magazine Quality contemporary songwriting enhanced by beautiful neo-Celtic sounds. Carl Corcoran - Presenter RTE Lyric FM's Blue of the Night Quite possibly one of the best bands we have seen in 2014. Their music is in the main self penned and lyrically has a folk feel to it, but the sound they produce is a mixture of music and rhythms from everywhere in the world. It is so very hard to find a genre to fit them into. Les Jones - Woodman Folk Club http://www.ranagri.com/
Tony McCarroll (Oasis) QnA

Tony McCarroll (Oasis) QnA

22 Jun 2025 - 22 Jun 2025

The latest experience from Bittersweet Home brings two Manchester bands together. Tony McCarroll of Oasis talks about the formation and early years of the the world's biggest band. The man behind the beats of Supersonic, Live Forever, Slide Away ... Definitely Maybe, The Masterplan and What's the Story's.. Some Might Say. Followed by music from Aziz Ibrahim (The Stone Roses) at the iconic venue The Water Rats...the first venue Oasis played in London! Signed and exclusive merchandise will be on sale and can be bought in advance from www.tonymccarroll.com
Kirsten Adamson

Kirsten Adamson

4 Oct 2025 - 20 Feb 2026

Singer/songwriter Kirsten Adamson summons the same heart-stopping purity as Sandy Denny, by way of Emmylou Harris and Kate Bush. Transcendence runs in the family. Her father was Stuart Adamson (Skids, Big Country) and her mother Alexandra, a champion Highland dancer. With summers spent soaking up the atmosphere in Nashville with her dad and a string of leading roles in musical theatre back in the UK, the teenage Adamson’s course was set. She sang backing vocals on Big Country’s last album Driving to Damascus at age 13. By 2010, she was forging her own career as a vocalist and keyboard player for indie-folkers Aberfeldy. She fronted country rockers The Gillyflowers and more recently shone as half of alt-country duo The Marriage, and then on a self-titled solo debut. The austere beauty of her voice has been a constant motif.
Serious Child and My Girl the River

Serious Child and My Girl the River

16 Nov 2025 - 16 Nov 2025

Black Cat Music is very proud to present.. My Girl the River and Serious Child (joint headline) Kris Wilkinson Hughes aka My Girl the River is a Louisiana native who is now based in the UK after a decade of songwriting in Nashville. She has recently released her third album, Songs About Space, to strong critical acclaim. As a performer, she is funny, warm and fearless with a sackful of hook laden Americana/roots songs and a voice of sweet sugared espresso. You might find yourself singing along or shedding a tear on your journey. Love, loss, Louisiana and Hot Chicken are just some of the stops along the way. My Girl The River have performed at the Isle of Wight festival and toured with folk legend Suzanne Vega. I am about to utter the most fearsome words in folk, says Alan Young, aka Serious Child. This is a song about my grandmother ... it's a singalong - Arts Republic Roots musician Serious Child hails from an old beech wood in West Sussex, and draws from a wide range of acoustic influences from folk to pop to bossa nova. His pin sharp lyrics explore the world around us with a poet's ear for emotion and a comedian's eye for everyday detail. His fourth album, What Lies Beneath, is due to be released in Summer 2025.
Electric Boys

Electric Boys

10 Jun 2025 - 10 Jun 2025

ELECTRIC BOYS are much loved for their idiosyncratic combination of hard rock and other forms of music such as funk beginning with their first album Funk-O-Metal Carpet Ride in 1989. Don't miss them when they come to London. Support from THE SPANGLES
Sunny Coast Rudeboys Vs Sharp Class

Sunny Coast Rudeboys Vs Sharp Class

28 Jun 2025 - 28 Jun 2025

Sunny Coast Rude Boys are a 10-piece wall of sound hailing from Australia's Sunshine Coast beaches. The band has established itself as one of Australia's top ska acts, attracting the attention of a diverse and growing international fanbase. Their unique signature sound is a pop-tinged, surf-sprayed distillation of unexpected ska arrangements and seductive harmonies, invigorated by punchy horns and thumping drums. With a slew of new original tracks drawing on the original 2Tone sound, Sunny Coast Rude Boys are a sure-fire, supercharged party band! From the UK, Sharp Class are a British power trio consisting of Oliver Orton on guitar and lead vocals, Billy Woodfield on bass guitar and Declan Mills on the drums. Just as their name implies, the trio have a sharp image, one that gives the band its unique flair amongst a crowd. However, Sharp Class extend beyond looks and presentation. Their songs are grounded in realism and spattered with an English essence, while seamlessly merging the illustrious DNA of Punk, Soul, Power-Pop, Britpop and Rock n Roll. Though that is not enough, as a prominent magnetism within Sharp Class ensures that their live shows burst with enough energy to light up London. DJ Ska n Mash A festival favourite specialising in ska, reggae, 2-tone, motown, soul, mod, indie & punk
Role Models

Role Models

3 Oct 2025 - 3 Oct 2025

London! Role Models ONE OFF SHOW REUNION They are back for one night only. Grab a ticket early to avoid missing out. Support from Billy Liar and Empty Page. Gonna be a blast.
Kmg Presents: Montara + Rita L'oujdia
After a short hiatus, Montara returnsthis time, with a full 9-piece band. Blending jazz with Latin rhythms, soulful grooves and boundary-pushing fusion, Montara crafts music that moves bodies and minds in equal measure. Known for their improvisational fire and rhythmic depth, this show marks their first headline gig of 2025 and the debut of their new live formata bold step forward in the bands evolution. This is more than just a gig. Its the kickoff to a pivotal year of growth: with the recent release of Cosmic Jelly, upcoming singles Floating and No Me Vas a Parar, and a full-length album in the works, Montara is laying down the foundations for something biggerand this night is the start of that journey. Opening the night is Rita LOujdia, a genre-blending artist hailing from Morocco and raised in France. Fusing Latin, pop, and traditional North African sounds, Rita brings a rich, multicultural sonic palettesinging in Spanish, English, and Arabic. Her music is a bold celebration of identity and rhythm, and the perfect way to set the tone for a night where borders blur and grooves take over. Were taking over The Water Rats in Kings Cross, and we plan to fill the room with nothing but energy, sound, and movement. Tickets are limitedand once theyre gone, theyre gone. Dont miss your chance to be part of Montaras biggest chapter yet. Ticket sales will close on the 5th of June at 15:00. Tickets will be available on the door for 12
Something For the Weekend

Something For the Weekend

31 May 2025 - 31 May 2025

The greatest covers band in London, brought together by musical differences, in their 37th year, playing live at the famous Water Rats pub in Kings Cross. A night of dancing, singing and general merriment.
Recovering and Celebrating Black Entertainers in Morecambe, 1850 - 1950. A talk by Kirsty Roberts
Morecambe boasts a rich entertainment history that has garnered national acclaim within the UK, featuring notable figures such as Thora Hird and Morecambe and Wise. However, the invaluable contributions of Black performers who regularly graced the town's stages have been overlooked.This talk will explore how one travelling exhibition and one temporary exhibition aimed to address this oversight by bringing these exceptional artists into the spotlight, highlighting their crucial role in shaping cultural heritage both domestically and internationally. Performers such as Adelaide Hall, Clayton 'Peg Leg' Bates, Cassie Walmer and many more performed in Morecambe and were featured in the exhibition. By illuminating the achievements and contributions of these artists, the exhibitions sought to celebrate and honour their rightful place in Morecambe's rich entertainment legacy, ensuring their stories receive the recognition they deserve. About Kirsty Roberts Kirsty Roberts is a PhD student at the University of Central Lancashire. She specialises in Black Social History in museums. For access information please check https://www.thewaterratsvenue.london or call The Water Rats on 020 7833 3312. A booking fee will be added to your ticket price when you check out. This helps us to manage the running costs of our events and administer the box office.
Les & Roy, Cissie & Ada. A talk presented by Mark Llewellin
Mark Llewellin takes us through the lives of Les Dawson and Roy Barraclough who enjoyed 25 years of creative collaboration including those iconic comedy creations Cissie and Ada. Not only were they a winning double-act on stage and screen but they were great mates off screen too. Mark, who was Roys partner, gives a unique insight into their lives, careers - and reveals just why they got on so well. About Mark Llewellin Mark Llewellin has appeared as a guest/expert on dozens of TV and radio shows here and abroad. These appearances have included talking about British comedy, Coronation Street, Granada Television, pantomime, true crime and music hall. He is the author of four books - With Friends Like These, They Started Here! and Lights, Camera, Location!(theatre and TV) and The World of Crime! (true crime) as well as pantomime scripts and hundreds of articles for magazines here and in Canada. This will be a full evening start at 7pm with an interval. Ending c.9.30pm For access information please check https://www.thewaterratsvenue.london or call The Water Rats on 020 7833 3312. A booking fee will be added to your ticket price when you check out. This helps us to manage the running costs of our events and administer the box office.

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