Industry news & advice blog

The Joiners
In the slightly dodgy area of St. Mary’s (although it has got better over the years!) lies the greatest mid-sized venue in Southampton. Having hosted early shows from Coldplay and Radiohead it has a fantastic reputation for booking the best bands. The close black walls and the massive sound system create an electric atmosphere. There are always great opportunities for local bands to support bigger names or to host your own night. The shows are well advertised on the venue website and through local listings, as well as in their popular monthly booklet. Local photographers and journalists often attend gigs at The Joiners.

www.joinerslive.co.uk

Lennons Nightclub
On Saturday nights ‘Long Live Rock and Roll’ bring breaking bands to their stage. Recent highlights include Ou Est Le Swimming Pool and King Charles. An intimate club which attracts a loyal mix of students and locals, Lennons is always busy during term time, and with such a friendly vibe this is a great night to play to expand your fanbase whilst having a good night. The venue has a pretty small stage but a very friendly sound guy. Mind you don’t park in the clamping area while you load in!

www.longliverocknroll.com

Southampton University – Frequency
As part of AIM (Alternative Indie Music Society), Southampton University puts on a  monthly Monday live music night. It’s a great way to tap into the student scene. The organisers are all students who are incredibly friendly and will promote the show on their popular student radio station Surge, as well as in their student paper and to their loyal fanbase.

Hamptons
On Sunday nights, Hamptons offers free entry to their weekly music showcase. It’s a great opportunity to play with other touring bands, plus a super loud sound system, a chilled out green room and great artwork on the walls helps to set the mood.

www.hamptons-bar.co.uk

Mono
In the popular area of Bedford Place, right next to Orange Rooms, Mono hosts an alternative indie night on Wednesdays. With a good mixture of acoustic artists, cover bands and original line ups it’s a popular night with a broad ranging audience. The night is free entry, but bands will get paid with pizza (the duck hoi sin pizza is not to be missed!)

www.monobar.com