Velvet Grip- Catchy riff driven rock with plenty in the way of melody and hooks, soundwise it’s classic rock via southern rock with a soupcon of grunge. Leadfeather-  Formed in 2024 by guitarist Simon Hurts, Leadfeather is a high energy heavy rock band from London, UK. Known for their electrifying live performances and powerful lyrics, the band draws influence from the late ‘60s and ‘ 70s blues and rock sound, while creating a unique and distinctive sound that resonates with both rock purists and new fans alike. Easy On- Classic metal of the old school, shades of Iron Maiden, but with a slicker bluse-ier sound, dynamic anthemic tunes. R’Kane- Female fronted alt rock with a touch of prog and some pretty folk passages, decent tunes too.

Subjagger- Punchy 3 piece power pop from the 90’s with plenty of tunes and a rediscovered album just released on Heavy Soul Records, ‘The Lost Album’ has been remastered and sounds fresh. On tour with Drunk Keith, another stalwart of 90’s pop, expect to be ‘entertained and if you were there the first time, reminisce, or else if you’re new to this band we hope you’ll dig the music. Idyllic –  Anthemic indie fare played with Scally pop panache. Formed in Liverpool in 2022, Idyllic have played over 50 live shows and have released three singles which are available on Spotify and Apple Music. Kudre-  Feisty and hooky alt-rock, shades of Nirvana and Green Day but with more of  Brit Rock twist, possible Frank Carter influence, great stuff.

AKA The Syndicate – AKA The Syndicate released their self-titled debut album, full of original ska, reggae and punk influenced music in 2021 which saw one song stand out, capturing the zeitgeist of the times. In response, the group pieced together a remote music video, an anthem of isolation titled ‘Hands Up (Who’s Coming With Me?) which was followed by the moody    ” Two Sides Of The City” Their debut album was described by Scootering Magazine as “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 thrown in for good measure.”  Their second album ‘It’s Our World‘ was released in 2023 to rave reviews and the same can be described of their live shows, but the only way to know this is buy a ticket and catch AKA The Syndicate live…and luckily we have the perfect venue to enjoy a band steeped in ska and reggae and 2 Tone music. Ladies and Gentlemen… AKA The Syndicate in The Dublin Castle! With excellent high energy support tonite from New Tonic  – From the ashes of naughties Skangsters 2Tonic, New Tonic are a new take on the band with 3 original and 3 new band members. Playing old New Tonic originals, some new material and their own take on some of the classics. The 2 Tone/Trojan/Brit Pop/Indie influenced band are intent on freshening up the scene and having already performed at the IOW Festival, The Cavern Club, Liverpool and several well known music venues. The band are already making a name for themselves with their electric, energetic live performances as a must see band. New Tonic, happy to be influenced but not to be labelled.  All this plus dancefloor sounds from the sixties and seventies to right now right thru til 2am courtesy We Got Killers. 

The Boston Brew– featuring more former Cannibals (could be the same ones, I couldn’t possibly say…)and other mature exponents of Ye Trashe, expect a heady blend of Nuggets type punkers and Feelgoods like swaggering r’n’b. Absolutely stonking.  Oddlyvalid – Born in south London one lunchtime, two souls became five, then four, then two, sometimes three. Whatever the lineup, Oddlyvalid have been serving up strong punchy songs, grounded in pop, rock, funk, with nods to much more, for over a decade. Highly regarded initial album Mr Boxall delivers a dark tale of underworld rivalry, corruption and betrayal. Its follow up, First Among Prequels, attracted enthusiastic local radio support. And now, founders Dave Potter (vocals) and Dave Lloyd (guitar) are joined by John ‘Bison’ Boyce (bass) and Colin Lloyd (drums), so Oddlyvalid are four again, one in each corner. Expect to hear echoes of their experience in multiple genres (for example – Dave P with the poptastic DB5s; Dave L’s 3 albums with prog rockers The Gift; Bison fronting post-punk touring outfit Run Foxy Run). All these ingredients are packed into their new album – Broadside From The Falcon – due for release this autumn.

Cocodamol-A shoegaze duo with noise rock influences, for fans of Slowdive and Medicine. also early My Bloody Valentine etc…love what they do with the Shangri Las Out In The Street. Bramwell-  hook-laden, infectious power pop, lyrically covering the blurred lines between what’s weird and normal in the ‘everyday’, influenced by Big Star and the classic indie rock of Guided by Voices in equal measures. The Taut– Blusey alt-rock with a gritty fuzzed up sound and plenty in the way of tunes/hooks Bobbi Lowfi-A solo act  but with backing track replete with horns etc, very slick sound a sorta Northern Soul/70’s soul crossover, neat.

The Mighty Heartache-If you like your rock’n’roll with the swagger and heart of the 70s, the spirit of the 60’s, a dollop of country and rockabilly, and words to make you think – maybe make you cry – and a beat to get your feet a dancin’, The Mighty Heartache is what you’re looking for. Think, Elvis C meets Elvis P with the energy of the Clash, the raunch of The Stones, all mixed up in Nashville and dropped into the heart of the Finchley Delta. Arthur Buezo- Where Arthur Buezo is from and has developed cant be pin-pointed, as he has travelled for all of his life. Throughout these travels, music has been the main constant for him. Arthur Buezo has been a professional musician since 2010 and now is a One-Man-Band performer bringing the self titled genre, Savage Folk. While keeping original music alive and well. Franciska- Outta Denmark.  Rock pop with metal leanings…a big belting rock vocal from the actual Franciska and some impressive kickass crunch from the Bon Jovi meets INXS band.  Ditsea Yella #beep #beep = 2 people Big sound! Made in London :) :)

Rhythm 60 is an Ex Gratia Recordings Party celebrating Scarlett Carson and J Mitch Flaxo’s first sixty years in The Universe… and you’re all invited, for a small fee to cover the entertainment . And what entertainment!…Back in October 1964 two incredibly special, squalling humans arrived onto this Earth and things have never been the same… Here we are in October 2024 and those two singing scorpio siblings, bassist, drummer trouble causers in multiple bands including Hagar the Womb, Bug Central, Mekons, Pig Ignorance, Big Bottom, Riot Clone, mclusky and also the rhythm section of anarchistwood going by the names of J Mitch Flacko and Scarlett “Charlie” Carsen are now almost grown up and are about to reach the youthful age of sixty. Please save the date of Friday 18th October to come and celebrate with us all at the infamous Dublin Castle on Camden Parkway. This includes a birthday for Hally too! The bands dem… anarchistwood – taking inspiration from Detroit ’60s, ’70s proto punk (indeed have been known to play a Destroy All Monsters number) as much as the Pistols packin’ ’76 SEX scene and post Crass ’80s Anarcho satire… Frank Cutter and crew know how to enrich the audience with fabulous, head turning, transgressive punk rock, and play it with a supercool ease. Punkish pranksterism never got so sassy. Effortlessly brilliant, massively entertaining. Their uber neato version of ‘White Punks On Dope’ (‘Black Punks On Speed’! hollers bassist Mitch!) is a wonderful inclusion in recent sets too. Bug Central – Bug Central are a punk band from London, England formed in 1996 and still playing with the original line up of Noodles Romanov (guitar / vocals), Ben Blasphemy (bass) and Charlie Bug of Riot/Clone, Pig Ignorance at the drums… Fierce and rumbling proper PROPER punk. SLapPeR – “the most beautiful sound you’ve ever heard” might sound like a bold statement, but you know what… beauty is in the eye of the beholder and… behold! Beauty! With echoes of neo classical, punk industrial and pronk pop gothic, there’s a lot going on and it’s all head crunchingly, psychedelically enigmatic and exciting. With DJ action til 2am…

Who doesn’t love The Clash? Who doesn’t love The Stranglers? Who doesn’t love Punky Reggae Party? Who doesn’t love Punky Reggae Party hosting a whole night of Clash and Stranglers classics? Back to their spiritual home again, the brilliant PRP dust down the uber bangers of The Meninblack, alongside the mega hits of The Last Gang In Town…and of course a smattering of more off piste groovers by both bands to keep you on yer toes. Superb entertainment, needless to say. And done fantastically well, as you’d expect. Grab a Clash City Rokit To The Moon… DJs We Got Killers keep the Skanky Punky Party going after 11pm, but are liable to shoot off in other delectable dancefloor directions too, whether Overpowered By Funk or Waltzin in Black…

Silvercain – taking inspiration from classic Seattle bands and the melodic, thought provoking end of Grunge in general – so Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Screaming Trees and yes, Nirvana. Excellent playing, great songcraft. Superb Neo Grunge! The Skive – ‘High energy, explosive, garage rock band from Hertfordshire’s greatest dumping ground Stevenage’!! The Harrison Affair – “London’s tired of London. London’s tired of life. Londoner’s have lost their communities to greed and Gail’s. Londoner’s can’t afford to live in their city. And those who do cling on to the last crumbs of its culture to justify their precarious existence. We’re all rats in this city. But fear not… The Harrison Affair, a 5-piece band from South London, are here to capture these late-capitalist anxieties, entertaining our audiences as a form of exorcism – alleviating the city, the country and the world from the collective brain smog…. With songs combining the sax/soul of Sade, the anarchy of the Libertines, the beats of the best British-ska records and more, The Harrison Affair will lift us from this 21st Century malaise…”

Lame – High sheen uber pop indie with a marvelous millennial positivity that will surely attract admirers. Anthems in the making. Not in the least lame then! Plaster Sun – Perky post punk informed indie. Nice yelping vocals, commercial tunes, cool gal bassist. What’s not to dig…Looking and sounding very good. The XLNTs – ska, punk, indie and pop joyfully conjoined by this up for it and energised Brighton collective. Handsome Waitress – great name! Exciting young band, girls and boys on a mission to be wonderful. All the right kinds of indie rock.

Kitten Pyramid-Have garnered great reviews from The Guardian, Q mag, Prog mag and many more…take a Cardiacs type jaunty sound and combine it with some thoroughly Syd era Floyd whimsy and hard edged Crimson meets Tull passgaes , wig out Hendrix guitar, pastoral brass and a bit of Genesis too…but original…new prog!“If British psychedelia is your bag, this is your new favourite band” The Independent “Picasso could have been at the controls”Paul Lester, The Guardian “Fantastic” Mark Radcliffe, BBC 6 Music“Genius”Tom Robinson, BBC 6 Music“Your new favourite band”Chris Hawkins, BBC 6 Music“A beautiful album.”David Stubbs, Classic Rock ★ ★ ★ –The Japanese brothers  SAHAJi are about to be huge – Attitude and style for days with the songs to back it up. Their debut EP reached number 8 in the official U.K. physical sales chart, they are about to fly. Having already supported Andrew Cushin on his U.K tour, the brothers and their band are currently recording their melodic guitar driven rock ready for an autumn release. With a cult following already across social media, the enthusiasm is infectious, the style is unwavering, the swagger is real. Expect big anthemic choruses and melodies that stuck in your head for weeks. Ghost Cat – Taking cues from classic Bowie and Suede with very tasteful playing all round and some good build ups and dramatic tension in the arrangements.

The Estimators – Party time with the Autumn Ball Of Fire! Two, long, hot sets of the most authentic Jamaican Ska you’ll hear this side of  Foresters Hall 1963 or Orange Street 1964. A bona fide super skanking Time Machine back to the sounds that moved a million or more feet either side of the colonial divide. In fact, the music that ultimately brought people together, One Love n all that. The joy is palpable at any Estimators show, attracting people from all walks of life. Only ain’t no walking going on. It’s dancing all the way. You won’t have a better night out. Assisting in that party superstar selecta Paul brings his boxes of carefully collected 45s to play before, after and between sets. Pure vibes…whether ska, rocksteady or boss reggae. Big boutcha. We Got Killers then take the dancefloor off into more reggae, soul, disco and killer rock n roll til the wee hours.

Blue Eyed Giants headline The Dublin Castle on October 30th with support from Night Thieves and HCK9 for a Halloween special!

Calling all you Witches, Goblins, Vampires and Ghouls to The Dublin Castle on ALL HALLOWS EVE for a delectable evening in the shadows…not only that, Serenity Club return to the location of their legendary debut live performance some six months ago to launch their eagerly anticipated EP…”Obsession Submission”…yes please! With full supporting cast.  

CMDN Presents: Dubinski! With support from Teddy Clarke and Parlay! – Hailing from Edinburgh, Scotland, Dubinski are four inseparable siblings: Eugene, Fergus, Donal and Eoin Gaine. Originally from the remote green hills of North Yorkshire, the Gainebrothers spent their childhood in atmospheric and social isolation. A shared love of music was the common thread amongst the four, so they spent their adolescent years writing and performing songs for the sheer joy of it. Eventually the brothers moved to Edinburgh, having decided to raise the bar of their childhood music ‘hobby’ to make a proper go of it. Taking on the band name Dubinski (their late mother’s maiden name), the band recorded their debut album at RAK Studios in London, working with Grammy Award winning producers/engineers Mike Horner and Robbie Nelson. Having recently released the eponymous album worldwide through Gnu Roam (Kartel Music Group), Dubinski have now taken their high-energy show on the road as an international touring act and are gearing up for the release of their sophomore album, to be released in early 2025.

Pussycat and the Dirty Johnsons – this band reached legendary status some time ago now, the trio with the biggest trash punk and roll reputation on the block…and we’re chastened to hear this will be their last live outing for the foreseeable future, as members of the band require rest and recuperation following the travails of long nights on the road kicking more ass than it’s generally accepted is good for your ‘elf!  Everything crossed  here for a return to the stage for PC&TDJs as soon as is physically possible. Go! white coated health professional types! Save our Dirty Rock and Roll! We need the cranked up punk grunge-abilly mayhem of Dirty Jake and Puss’s guitars, the skittering riddims and bombastic beat of drummer Ant, and the fierce feline yelp and howl of the righteous anger of Puss on vox, not to mention her high energy physical expression, and fearless forays into the crowd. And all in the Mojo riddled environs of The Dublin Castle back room. Always a brilliant night out… AlterModerns – Originally from Brazil, AlterModerns are now a London based boy/gal duo who have never been afraid to wear their influences on their musical sleeves, combining their love of The Sonics, Love and Bo Diddley with a badge of honour. The SinicTones – Bristol-based power trio with fuzz-riffed guitars, driving ear-candy bass lines, catchy choruses and a SEDUCTIVE live performance. Note capitals! As originators of ‘Psycho Surf Noir’ it’s all about…”frantic surf drums with classic spy beat guitar riffs and Film Noir, B-Movie, Femme Fatale and KINK vocal themes.“  The Go Go Cult – ‘Turn on. Tune in. Give in’!! Taking garbage n trash informed schlock rock to fabulous new lows, as seen recently on sleaze splattered stages alongside the likes of King Salami, King Kurt and Queen Lene Lovich. DJs We Got Killers spin exotica, punk and rock and roll then spin off into sassy soul, deviant disco and righteous rave.

Cenzontle – Latino folk jazz and sampledelics all done at an introspective low key pace with occasional clubby, dubby fat bottom end bass… I guess these Berlin based Latin collective could be labelled ‘World Music’…whatever you call it it’s cool and interesting stuff for sure.

The Jackdaw – As heard on BBC Radio 6 Music way past your bedtime. Described by Isaac Holman of SOFT PLAY as a band that “can do no wrong”, The Jackdaw are a 4 piece punk band from Brighton and London. Following gigs around the country and a couple of festival appearances in the first part of the 2020s, The Jackdaw are back after a brief hiatus in the first half of 2024. Fractured –  post punk stalwarts going back many moons…The Fall meets Magazine at a Nightingales gig said our floppy fringed, long raincoat adorned post punk correspondent last time Bugbear engaged Fractured back in 2010! In 2024 they’ve been releasing a new, acclaimed single every single month! Great work! Fractured recently performed at Rebellion and Glastonwick Festivals. They have supported The Nightingales, The Monochrome Set, Alternative TV,  The Blue Orchids and London in recent times. In the words of 6 Music and Dublin Castle favourites, ‘The Fallen Leaves’, “Fractured take every aspect that was good about punk, but transport it to the now, with witty and relevant commentary on the absurdity of modern life. One of the best groups on the live scene.”  Not My Wife -Not My Wife are a kiwi formed indie-rock group based in the UK. Inspired by a wide array of genres, they bring a soulfully energetic sound with catchy hooks, captivating lyrics, and an infectious rhythm.

Nick Shane – “Undoubtebly one of the country’s best songwriters” – Nick Shane is a UK Mod/Punk/Indie singer-songwriter based in Scotland with singles and albums dating back up to the past ten years, covering a wide range of Acoustic/Soulful/Singer-Songwriter genres, showcasing old and new material in the Dublin Castle tonight.  Bill Dury – son of Ian and in possession of a similarly mercurial artistry. Bill D is a unique talent with a ringmaster’s approach to rounding up the pop chops and making them perform.

Peter Azzopardi – pop, ska and reggae combine to make some good tune but conscious music from this prolific and talented singer and band. Promoting his second album this year, the on point cost of living crisis aware ‘Penniless’… Chris Daley – much admired frontman and leading light of The Theme, a broadly appealing Mod band who really should have been bigger than they were and played some great Dublin Castle gigs back in the day. Fab to welcome Chris and band back tonight. Danny Ansell Music – jazz, pop and country vibes combine with this spanking band as a vehicle for Danny’s highly emotive, clarion vocal. Impassioned stuff, great songcraft.

MATINEE SHOW 2pm Tonight Ants fans will swarm over London as Adam Ant returns to the stage for an eagerly anticipated live show. So what could be better than a little afternoon aperitif of Antsy goodness? The UK’s only Adam and the Ants tribute band Ant Trouble descend upon Camden Town for a matinee show in The Dublin Castle… This fantastic Ants tribute band, who also play songs from Adam Ant’s solo era, will be performing all of the big Ants hits, awesome album tracks and exciting b-sides from the back catalogue of ant music for all Ant fans alike. This afternoon the band will be performing a special long set of ant tracks (a few that Adam won’t be playing live himself) as well as the ‘Kings of the Wild Frontier’ album in it’s entirety! Covering both eras of the Ants, from Punk to Pop… All performed completely live, giving you the authentic experience in full costume and with all the manic energy you’d expect from the dandy highwaymen themselves! Get them tickets in your valise. Cheap as chips. They’re gonna disappear quicker than you can say Da Diddly Qua Qua…. EVENING SHOW 7.30Pm The Landline – yes, by now we must say, these guys are Dublin Castle stalwarts! All the big hitting tunes and some lovely bubbly deep cuts from an indie/Nineties/alternopop/ baggy universe… Britpop and contemporary covers delivered with joyous good vibes…Fat Boy Slim, Oasis, Mock Turtles, Blur, Charlatans, Stone Roses etc…but it all blends into one beautiful party time pop megamashup. My Best Unbeaten Brother – a Croydon-based trio featuring Ben and Adam Parker, the two brothers behind such groups as Nosferatu D2 / The Superman Revenge Squad / Tempertwig. Joined by another Ben, they play frenetic and adventurous indie rock that is fun and instantly appealing. It is truly Frenetic indie pop, a bit Fall like in places but also we hear The Wedding Present…Dpors 7.30pm £10/£6 advance. TICKETS HERE – https://wegottickets.com/event/634771/  

Cymru in the house this afternoon, for a matinee show of A1 Welsh talent. Interstella Boy – Dil Williams came to rocknroll via poetry, and words are clearly very important with his band. Check out the Intastella album on his Bandcamp page, now brought to life by a full band. Pastoral, psychedelic pop and folk tinged low key rock, with lots of light and shade, tension and drama. Great work. The Stray Pursuit– classic scally indie, blended with some alt rock/hard rock power, from a youthful bunch full of intensity. At times they take a sort of New Order template and rock it up like the Manics or Stereophonics, in fact power chord it right up complete with neat lead guitar… good songs, very radio friendly. From S0uth Wales. NB MATINEE SHOW 2pm  

Americana and Blues fused rock artistry from Billy Walton, accomplished guitar master from the vibrant New Jersey Shore music scene. He earned his stripes in the rock & roll trenches, playing lead guitar for many years with Jersey icon, Southside Johnny. He has also shared the stage with music legends; Little Steven, Gary US Bonds and Steven Tyler, to name a few. The Billy Walton Band grew out of this rich musical heritage, and found its groove when Billy connected with bassist William Paris. With the addition of Tom Petraccaro on sax, Eric Safka on Hammond B3, Bruce Krywinski Jr on trumpet, and Shane Luckenbough; the band has truly hit its stride. More recently, the arrival of vocalist extraordinaire Destinee Monroe has brought the band to a whole. Lorenza Wildcard – female contemporary pop/rock artist LW is a multiple award-nominated and internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter has gained recognition for her exceptional talents in songwriting and her remarkable music versatility, earning her praise from audiences around the globe. Her musical style has been compared to Blondie, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, The Runaways, Miley Cyrus, Gwen Stefani, The White Stripes, The Record Company, The Bones of J.R. Jones, and The Rolling Stones. Taurus Trakker – this sassy punk and roots rock and roll informed guy/gal duo have been in the studio with Mick Jones of The Clash and channel a kind of West London punk heritage take on The White Stripes template. Vital rocking fare with bags of great attitude. Molly Duvalle – from Vienna, and it should mean something to you! As they say…”Rock’n’Roll! Rock’n’Roll! Sometimes mangy, like the street dog marking old factory walls, then again a quite glamorous diva, strolling through the mirrorball-lit ballroom, eagerly awaiting the welcome party of the Spiders from Mars.” Sounds ace right?  

The Vivettes – the very wonderful Girls On Top played tons of gigs with Bugbear back in the day so we’re very pleased to welcome back Lydie, their drummer, with her new vivacious combo…garage punk and cool trash with nifty originals and some cool covers, such as I Need You by The Kinks. Nirvanher – yes, an all gal Nirvana homage, playing all the hits but no dangly bits (apologies to the band, probably not the best tagline that!). The point is…they are bloody brilliant. Fantastic to see women doing that material. No doubt Kurt would approve, being the proper, unabashed feminist he was. (Not that usual for blokes in rock bands back then… ) Us – this fabulous young band really know how to kick it, loads of energy, lots of attitude, punky propulsion and rock n roll roots with some fine garage oriented workouts. And they have a harp player! No, not that kind of harp…we’re talking harmonica. Proper. Which will be why they’ve been handpicked by The Libertines for a support spot soon, and they’ll no doubt be wowing the Libs crowd and you tonight. Hot stuff. DJ Sue – the Camden Town legend keeps the party rocking til 2am.

Dogshite – Tiddles, Chris and company return to the Dublin Castle to whip up a skanking punky party on a Friday night, their irresistible punk pop, ska and ramalama goodness being fabulous gear for enabling jumping around with a pint to hand as the weekend gets going. Telling the rudeboys how it is, and where to get off, then some. And all in a joyous and entertaining manner. Proper punk rock. P.I.G – ‘A mix of everything loud and heavy with punk rock roots’…gonna be really good then. Not sure what Pig stands for? Perfect, indeed, glorious? Spear – playing old school, harmony led, reggae/rocksteady. Big boutcha! Stop Press…Zombie Met Girl join the party. DJ Fuzz takes the party from 11pm til 2am.

St. Jimi Sebastian Cricket Club- From Stockholm, Sweden has been described in media as a mix of The Jam, Inspiral Carpets and Oasis. The band is run by Jimi Sebastian, raised in Sweden but with an English father which is reflected in both lyrics and music where the social realist narrative often plays a prominent role. He has on several occasions been invited to various podcasts TV etc. where he talks about the band’s music, lyrics and the connection to football culture. The band is constantly growing and considered as one of the country’s most entertaining live acts. SJSCC has previously released one full-length album and 3 EP’s, played frequently live where they sell out venues in both Sweden and London. A new full-length album is out in september 2024. So get your tickets for this folks! Daddy Those Men Scare Me – our very favourite suburban punk pop ironists go way back to the early days of Bugbear- and now they’ve written a few new songs too! Then again why mess with a set list full of quality witty items like ‘Mass Consumption’, ‘Magic Mushroom Man’ and ‘Teenagers’ (Cunts!)…wonderful. For fans of The Stranglers, Squeeze, Half Man Half Biscuit and Ian Dury…Snow In September – Sarah, singer,  formerly of Lover singing breathy Deborah Harry stylings, and she has a damn good voice, – crisp rock pop,  dynamic stuff, a la Garbage, Blondie. Antelope –  Highly polished shoegaze/dreampop. Harks back to proto-shoegaze like Pale Saints, plus there’s some lovely intricate guitar lines and a pretty dynamic sound all round.

NB there are two SEPERATELY TICKETED live events today… today’s Matinee Show 2.30pm is … Falsedots– Dublin Castle stalwarts, and then some, play their matinee malarkey album launch party for you today, that album being there saucily titled ‘A Finger In The Sun’. They go back to the Seventies but they have a youthful spirit for sure. Expect that new album to be a party platter reflecting their lovely live joie de vivre, encompassing the emanations of louche, loquacious and lascivious (la di da) Londoners like Ian Dury, Madness and Mark ‘Alternative TV’ Perry, with a healthy loft punk pop element and a devil may care spirit much to be admired, sure to be a beezer afternoon. The Nice Men– post punk shoulda bins with a fine balance of artsy angst and pithy pop in their musical armoury. It may no longer be 1979 but these reformed roustabouts will put that first forkful of Pot Noodle whilst hearing The Teardrop Explodes for the first time ever back in your mind. I think Pot Noodles came out in 1979…Julian Cope certainly did. I mean …you know what I mean. Whelligan– bit of a Copey influence here to perchance. From Merseyside via the Holloway Road and a fistful of acid pop pearls. NB Today’s evening show 7.30pm is NIGHTSHIFT LDN…With Siren’s Spell, Meganoke, Dead Cool & Cyberwaste + DJs. An Anglo -American Gothique Electro EDM Fest with full info here https://facebook.com/events/s/night-shift-lodon-17th-nov-sir/2305926193076390/ Ticket – https://wegottickets.com/event/633734/

Lucida Records, Bugbear & Artcore present Sub Sessions – A night showcasing the best of London’s underground dance scene. With …  Radio Waves Goodbye. They’ll take your Brain to another dimension. Leg Puppy 2.0 –  Underworld meets the KLF.  punkdISCO – South East Londons best kept secret. Catchy singalong anthems. The Streets meets  Robyn.  Nata in Furs A theatrical dark electronic pop project by producer Natasha Mae incorporating interactive sensory music performance. Wrapped into industrial beats and ambient soundscapes, her characters deliver magic and fairy tunes while objects and audience turn into musical instruments right on stage.   Riigs feat Cheryl –  Audio visual artist. Techno, house and bass music for the head and heart. Plus DJ Fuzz til late.    

Band Of Holy Joy – Johny Brown and his current crack band express much joy and holiness it must be said. Last time they came to play the DC it was a fabulous performance shot thru with poetic intensity, conjuring a remarkable atmosphere. Back tonight with a new album entitled Scorched Jerusalem coming out on Tiny Global Productions. The band’s music includes elements of post-punk, folk rock, European cabaret, reflective instrumentation and epic pop, with Jacques Brel, Bertolt Brecht, Coleridge and David Peace identified as influences. They have also been likened to David Bowie and Pere Ubu and Johny’s songs have been identified as “urban folk”. Rob Young, in the book ‘Rough Trade‘, described his music as “a bohemian mix of inner city guignol, Brechtian street song, and soaring romanticism”. The Intransigents – Thee Moot, cool Sixties psych and baroque pop specialists have got a side band and these be they – think CBGBs/Paisley Underground/UK Post-Punk. Mainly covers, but not ones you’ll hear anyone else play! The North – Strident and anthemic indie rock, sounds a tad like Embrace via Oasis and The Music …rocked up  indie, with nicely soaring vocals in the choruses. DJs We Got Killers – keep the party going til 2am.

Sunmachine- After a successful first year releasing their debut album “The Nova Effect” although their first live show was only in February 2023, their explosive shows are drawing crowds who are pulled in by Sunmachine’s mix of fast-paced bangers and emotive ballads. The energy they produce on stage is nothing short of electric, with each bringing their own personality to the shows critical acclaim. Falcon Stoop- Dark Heavy Rock with big doomy stoner riffs, and take no prisoner vocals, dynamic stuff. Black Lounge- Ultra hooky indie rock with big choruses, shades of Artic Monkeys and Jamie T but pretty much their own sound, Fab

Punky Reggae Party perform Woking Calling! It’s The Clash vs The Jam…and everyone’s a winner!… yes a great night out assured. You couldn’t be in better hands for a Clash Jam/Jam Clash. PRP are seasoned punk, mod and new wave major players and know their chops inside out. But as they point out, this ain’t no tribute routine…this party is all about the joy and passion in those timeless punk era tracks. We Got Killers take more such classics to the dancefloor and then spin it off into all manner of dance craze directions, from ska to soul to nineties and beyond rave bangers.

The Dekkertones – Playing authentic ska, and big booted rudeboy reggae. Some call it skinhead reggae, some say boss reggae, whatever you wanna call it, these guys and gal do it brill. Juxtaposing a male singer with a female singer makes for a great experience… it’s all sweet and honeyed tones and soulful proclaiming either way. What a joyful sound. Rocking a full brass front line and the riddim section always maintaining a nicely skanking rocksteady vibe every tune. Tunes like ‘Sweet Soul Music’….’Hurts So Good’…’Everything I Own’ etc. Got the look. Got the chops. Do it wonderfully well. Be sure to put on your dancing shoes.

Attila The Stockbroker Barnstormer 30th Anniversary Party–  John Blaine AKA Attila says – “When I started Attila in 1980 as a solo poet and musician, I always knew I’d form a band one day as well, with the idea of combining early music and punk. That finally happened in 1994, thanks to Brighton’s punk music hall maestros The Fish Brothers, who basically joined en masse – ever present M.M. McGhee on drums, the late, great Dan Woods on lead guitar, Martin Fish on rhythm guitar, and for our first two gigs,Captain Sensible on bass. Our first gig was on November 5 1994 at the Jericho Tavern in Oxford – we were called Flounder, after the flatfish, but that wasn’t a good name – and after a tour of Germany as Die Erbrechenden Rotkehlchen (The Vomiting Robins) which wasn’t a good name either, I settled on Barnstormer, adding the 1649 for our last and best album ‘Restoration Tragedy’ in 2018, which finally realised the early music-punk idea in full. Hundreds of gigs, mainly in mainland Europe, huge amounts of fun, five albums and lots of beer! And the current line up are still all also members of the Fish Brothers (AND Too Many Crooks!) Sean the Hippy – guitar, Captain Cook – bass and M/M.McGhee on drums. For this special celebration I have recruited two long time compadres, each with his own unique take on the world: scientist, comedian, poet and bibliophile ROBIN INCE and the Greatest Living Englishman himself, poet, songwriter and Cleaners from Venus front man Martin Newell, who has been producing wonderful music for forty years and whose latest album ‘Lilli Bolero’ is an absolute work of genius.

Yes, it’s Siouxsie and the Banshees nite …step Into .. The Light…. Laurence Hedges will be in discussion with Tony Gleed regarding all things Sioux shaped from 1980 to 1987, as part 2 of his in-depth Banshees biography series hits the marketplace. Into The Light is right in a way, not only a Banshees banger from the era, but also an indication of their huge popularity from fourth LP Ju-Ju onwards, as Punk melts into Goth and chart returns and big shows both multiply immensely. A fascinating discussion around the book will no doubt ensue, with questions from the floor…books will be available to buy on the night. Get a few…Christmas is round the corner! Alongside Laurence we are very pleased to welcome to the discussion acclaimed artist and unabashed Banshees acolyte Sue Webster.  Working with her then-partner of 25 years, Tim Noble, Sue rose to prominence making abstract shadow sculptures assembled from seemingly random objects. These sculptures, when lit by a single light source transformed into representational self-portraits. To make something from nothing became an important part of their DIY signature approach, influenced in part by the philosophy of British Punk. Alongside their shadow sculptures, they also took light sculpture into a different realm, creating signs which perpetually flash out messages of everlasting love, as well as hate. Other projects included taking the infamous Mole Man of Hackney’s derelict ruin and transforming it into a bespoke home and studio. Webster published her second visual biography I Was a Teenage Banshee in 2019. A Künstlerroman (artist’s coming of age novel), the book combines personal memoir with a visual narrative of her evolution as an artist, and describes how listening to Siouxsie and the Banshees helped guide her through a troubled adolescence. It follows The Folly Acres Cook Book (2014), a semi-autobiographical book which offered readers a rare glimpse into life as one half of the acclaimed artist-duo which combined somewhat abstract recipes alongside drawings, photographs, thoughts and anecdotes from the Gloucestershire smallholding that she shared with Tim Noble. Webster’s most recent body of work Full Leather Jackets (2019-2021) continues her exploration of Siouxsie and the Banshee’s ongoing influence on her life and work. There will also be tonight a suitably Banshees inspired DJ set from We Got Killers’ Tone Trash but moreover, steel yerself for a brilliant interpretation of Siouxsie and co.’s output as tonight’s event will climax with the return of excellent Siouxsie and the Banshees homage Painted Bird, back to perform their stunning interpretation of this singular, incredible music. As they rightly say, this may be “a tribute to the music of Siouxsie and the Banshees” But It’s not about looky-likeys. “We don’t play dress-up, we just kick ass on the music.”..Ninety minutes  plus of prime Siouxsie, all eras, all lineups  all done to perfection. Close yer eyes and it’s them. Uncanny. And brilliant. Can’t wait!

Micko and the Mellotronics – kicking it big style in both the live arena and on wax (check out the excellent Half Dove Half Pigeon and Vice Anglais albums, both bursting to the seams with XTC meets garage punk art pop n roll), it’s grand to welcome Micko and his mover shakers back to the Dublin Castle for a night of crisp and crafted rocking. Brother of actor Wash and a bit of thespian himself, Micko has straddled the worlds of indie, punk and ska with innumerable excellent collaborations and projects. Cult Figures- Way back IN 1979 a nifty little comedic lofi punk pop 7 Inch in praise of ‘Zip Nolan’ got played on John Peel and appeared in our record shops housed in a beautiful pinky bluey foldout sleeve …Swell Maps were involved at first, which gave us even more of a reason to snap this fantastic record up… but then Cult Figures became their own men and went on to create their own pleasingly ramshackle pop punk rumble… and then out of the blue a few years ago suddenly they’re back! Now with three excellent albums under their belts, chock full of alluring, sardonic pop, rocking post punk and subtly psychedelic sass. An excellent body of work that comes well recommended, whether featuring original sadly passed vocalist Gary Jones, whose massive shoes have been wonderfully refashioned by new singer Fraser Gillespie. Dirty Viv  – fuzz tone pop and post punk grind played with an impeccable trash aesthetic and admirable disregard for formality and unnecessary gloss- plenty of glam though, care of the titular Viv, resplendent in short skirts and peroxide hair. They don’t care.

THE ULTIMATE STONE ROSES ARE THE ONLY TRIBUTE TO THE ROSES TO HAIL FROM MANCHESTER.  EACH MEMBER IS A DIE HARD FAN OF THE ORIGINAL BAND WHO HAS DEDICATED THEMSELVES TO MASTERING THE MUSIC OF THEIR HEROES.  PLAYING SONGS FROM THE SEMINAL FIRST ALBUM, THE SECOND COMING AND EARLY FAN FAVOURITES LIKE ‘SALLY CINNAMON’ AND ‘MERSEY PARADISE’, THE ULTIMATE STONE ROSES GIVE THEIR AUDIENCES THE MOST AUTHENTIC STONE ROSES EXPERIENCE POSSIBLE…

In the vibrant heart of Milan, The Lizberries came to life in 2010, beginning their journey to become the ultimate tribute to the iconic Irish rock band, The Cranberries. Subsequently the band have earned themselves a distinguished place among tribute acts, solidifying their reputation as the best Cranberries tribute act on the global stage. From the renowned Alcatraz in Milan to the prestigious Dolan’s in Limerick, The Lizberries have graced stages that once hosted The Cranberries, creating anatmosphere where fans can relive the magic of the original band. Their extensive repertoire and faithful rendition of Cranberries classics ensure that audiences are treated to a mesmerizing two hour performance that captures the spirit of the legendary Irish indie rockers. The band’s emotional connection to the Cranberries’ homeland is evident in their four tours of Ireland, and their commitment to their craft extends beyond the stage, as they actively participate in national gatherings of the official Cranberries fan club and collaborate on initiatives with Cranberries Italia. Looking to the future, The Lizberries are on the brink of creating a unique theatre show that delves into the history of the Cranberries. This ambitious project, incollaboration with an esteemed Irish Dance Academy and a renowned Italian DJ,promises to be a visual and auditory feast, offering fans a deeper connection to the Cranberries’ legacy. In the hands of The Lizberries, The Cranberries’ music lives on, enchanting audienceswith an ethereal voice and an unwavering commitment to preserving the spirit of one. of the most beloved bands in all rock history. And all yours tonight in then Dublin Castle, Camden, an Irish home from home. Tonight, we are commemorating the occasion of the anniversary of Delores O’Riordan, singer of the Cranberries’ sad death in London ten years ago this weekend. This will be a celebration of Delores’ life and The Cranberries’ great music. The Tender Heights – Gothic, not Goth, folk tinged pop rock produced by Dreamcity Filmclub /Miraculous Mule magus Michael Sheehey …a rootsy sound with lovely sonorous female vocals. People who have listened to Lee and Nancy as much as The Pretenders will appreciate this. Grand.

Celebrate Australia day with INXS GB  A 6 piece band – The Ultimate INXS Tribute Experience! Get ready to be transported back in time to the electrifying era of rock ‘n’ roll as “INXS GB” pays homage to the legendary Australian band, INXS.Witness the exhilarating replication of INXS’s greatest hits, from the iconic “Need You Tonight” and “Never Tear Us Apart” to the crowd-favourite “New Sensation” and “Devil Inside.” Our talented lineup of seasoned musicians captures the essence and spirit of INXS with unmatched precision and passion.“INXS GB” delivers a powerful and authentic live experience, faithfully recreating the signature sound and distinct style that cemented INXS’s place in music history. Split Frenz are the UK’s number 1 Tribute Band to the Mighty ‘Split Enz’.They recreate the ‘New Zealand Beatles’, 80’s New Wave Pop with added Mancunian Swagger, on a mission to emulate the joy and chaos of the original Enz that warms the soul of old school fan, but still opens the heart of first time listeners. Sell out shows at Retro Bar in Manchester, the Waterloo Music Bar in Blackpool and outstanding headline shows Manchester’s Academy 3 and Club Academy have earned rave reviews from the fans who have travelled from all over the country to see them.Both Raucous and invigoratingly witty. Every night watching Split Frenz always ‘Enz’ in a bang.‘

The Decatonics are an established 8 piece female fronted ska band from Dorset comprising two singers, an energetic back line and a powerful horn section. Their set draws from the Ska, Trojan, Rocksteady, 2Tone, Soul, Reggae & Bluebeat genres and the vibrant live show has built up a great reputation for its high energy party atmosphere. Last seen here in The Ancestral Seat Of Madness supporting Teeside ska supremes The Skapones, we were suitably impressed and offered these guys and gals their own Dublin Castle headline. Gold Steppers – a band who say they are all about  ‘positivity, strength and dignity for the common person’ (and amen to that) and play serious underground ska… We Got Killers – will be playing ska, reggae, soul, punk and indie bangers between the bands and til the wee hours afterwards for your dancing delectation.

When some pals got together to pay musical homage the remarkable work of Echo and the Bunnymen recently (seasoned players from excellenct name bands though they were themselves natch) little did they suspect the media whirlwind that would ensue… actual Bunnyman and six string psychedelicist supreme Will Sergeant stumbled upon said unassuming Preston show and suitably stunned pronounced Echoes of the Bunnymen the Greatest Tribute Band In The World Ever…or something like that, with apologies to Bill Drummond. Let’s just say he was very impressed and went on the BBC a couple of times to say so. Then Bunnymen bass ace Les Pattinson followed suit…so there we have it, just like that Echoes of the Bunnymen are the official, approved tribute band to Liverpool’s alternative Fab Four. Now it seems Mac is lined up to attend the next one…So tonight is definitely not to be missed, for all fans of that fabulous Bunnymen body of work. Come On Down… Unknown Pleasures – Back in the day of course the Bunnymen supported Joy Division a number of times, never vice versa, but this is the whacky and wonderful world of tribute bands and tonight Matthew Unknown Pleasures are Joy Division a little earlier in the programme. Sourcing material from both excellent JD albums and attendant singles, these fine chaps have become Dublin Castle regulars over the years, eschewing a slick, uber polished take on the band for a raw and punky reading that really floats our boat. This is the way… and Rob Sekula too! What can we say, local hero Rob has recently enjoyed something of a glowing critical reappraisal for his fab ‘80s/‘90s psych pop indie shoe gaze marvels 14 Iced Bears..and he’s back writing new material and performing live shows, both full band and solo.  Wonderful to have him open tonight’s amazing event. You should be Falling Backwards to arrive in time for Rob’s set…after 11pm DJs We Got Killers will don their long overcoats and play a suitably post punk into early eighties indie set prior to zapping off on to whatever disco, rave, funk or reggae dancefloor filling tangents do the do and keep you dancing til the wee hours.

The Madnezz Of Amy! – YES! The Music of Madness. The Songs of Amy Winehouse, All in one handy, party hearty package…what’s not to love! Amber Sky puts her own ace spin on the Amy back catalogue with the boys in the band channeling the tunes just right. A perfect recreation of all that wonderfuL Amy stuff AND THEN 90 minutes of Madness classics on top, courtesy Ultimate Madnezz… what a ting. To be Frank, this goes One Step Beyond.

András Droppa- Come see the PAINTED LADIES TOUR! Following the release of his debut album, Andras Droppa brings his unique brand of Hard Rock-Blues to 49 venues across the UK and Ireland as part of his debut tour. A virtuosic ‘tour-de-force’ of in-your-face guitar driven music, András and his band won’t disappoint. Live and loud, this promises to be a night to remember! Andras Droppa is a 22 year old Hard Rock-Blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter from North Devon. His unique blend of Hard Rock, Blues, Soul and Funk shines through in his original material, and his live band are undeniably energetic and infectious.

Viva Morrissey – Based in the Holy City of Manchester, Morrissey’s birthplace, and home of his former band The Smiths, Viva Morrissey are highly regarded for the authenticity and accuracy that they bring to their performance.  Viva Morrissey’s concerts are based on Morrissey’s present-day solo shows, which makes their live shows markedly different from those of tributes to The Smiths.  Tonight Viva Morrissey will be playing the entire ‘Your Arsenal’ album in its original running order, followed by a selection of the best loved songs of The Smiths and Morrissey. Last time round it was pretty damn emotional. You can be sure of an intense and impassioned experience!