5AM FIRE ALARM

Five piece based in Bristol. The Boys have many shows under their belt now and are making waves around the circuit. With their Indie sound, 5AM are reminiscent of early arctic monkeys and the early 00's scene

https://www.instagram.com/5amfirealarm/

Machine Mirage:

Newish indie band based in Bristol with some great tunes and growing following on the local scene.

https://www.instagram.com/machine_mirage/

Better Dead..

Young brash bristol indie garage rockers making their debut at the Thunderbolt!

Tickets: £6Adv from Headfirst https://hdfst.uk/e141342 £7 OTD

STILL THE SMITHS

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of 'Still The Smiths', the UK’s freshest tribute to the legendary band that shaped a generation!

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e134621

HOOCHIE MOJOS

the bristol blues 4 peice return to the thunderblot to headline their own show.

PRENUP BAND

Bristol Cover Band

https://www.instagram.com/prenupcoverband/

GRAVITATE

GRAVITATE

Melodic pop/rock.

https://soundcloud.com/gravitatebristol

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e141534

Disruptive Influence’s annual Xmas Bash the final year!

TICKETS £5 from Headfirstbristol.com https://hdfst.uk/e140899

Door: £5 CASH supporting keep cash alive campaign!

Disruptive Influence

Disruptive Influence are a trash punk band from Bristol UK, blasting noise about politics and working class life.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/22DO0WwxgRn2P4oelXuE69...

Butt Plug Babies

4-Piece punk band from Plymouth! ‘Takin' the piss outta the things that anger us and havin' a good laugh doing so!’

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0H5RYf4n35IpND38BphxFg...

Burning Cows

CALL OF THE WILD:

Hardcore Punk Rock From Bristol UK

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3wmEhvFvyfZPyxqZ3a1aXu...

THIS THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY

Wicked world presents the first annual doom before christmas bringing the best in bristols doom/slam/death/black metal to your Yuletide celebrations. this year we bring you

OSKARIA

hot off their run in the metal to the masses bristol run of which they made it to the semi finals. the bristol doom and death metal trio headline the thunderbolt stage for the first time and promise to be a show you dont want to miss

https://www.instagram.com/oskariaofficial/

EPIMETHEUS

microdog 2023 champions of doom-gaze in bristol are no strangers to the scene having played their own headline shows around bristol already this time they come to put you in the festive spirit in the most doom way possible

https://www.instagram.com/epimetheusdoom/

TORTURED BY THE HOLLOW HANDS OF CHRIST

a brand new doom metal band made up of former members of foulerah, making their thunderbolt debut

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e136422

Happy ritual are back with another show not to be missed as the celebrate the impending release of new music

HAPPY RITUAL

Alt-rock from Bristol

linktr.ee/HappyRitual

WOLFGANG AYRTON TRIO
Bristol grunge threepeice that bring the slime that is not to be missed
https://www.instagram.com/wolfgangayrtontrio/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2xfn09HTTUXjJIpjzkWJgq?si=VkPi9bgGSpeyyQeX6WWQoQ

THE EFFECTIVES

Alternative rock band based in Bristol Effectives Baby!
https://www.instagram.com/effectivesuk/

SACRELIGION

Bristol/Swansea punk!

https://l.instagram.com/sac religion

TICKETS: £6Adv from headfirst

https://hdfst.uk/e139578

www.cashmatters.org.uk

BOZOS

HIGH ENERGY BEER DRINKIN' ROCK N' ROLL BAND FROM BRISTOL UK.

https://www.instagram.com/bozos_uk/

ROCK PAPER SCISSORS

brand new XTC tribute band playing their first ever show

SARAH TONIN AND THE WHORE MOANS

Bristol Slut Rock

https://www.instagram.com/sarahtoninandthewhoremoans/

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e141538

Rash Life Choices
2025 has been a great for RLC ! the band have been causing waves locally and have built up a sizable following with their performances charged with raw energy. This is punk at it's finest, outraged and powerful!

https://www.instagram.com/rashlifechoices/

Damp Squids

“The Damp Squids are the howling doomed love-spawn of Petty, Strummer and Wilko and dragged into the world by a rock’n’roll nurse and smacked on the ass by Johnny Thunders. Rejoice. The Squids are far from alright.”

Violet Crazies

Electro-punk misfits from North Somerset, UK.
Industrial noise meets punk rage in a synth-scarred soundscape. Bass, beats, and disorder from Kile, Dunc, Deb, and Nayf. For fans of sonic rebellion and audio alienation!

www.facebook.com/VioletCrazies

TICKETS £5 from Headfirstbristol.com https://hdfst.uk/e140911

Door: £5 CASH supporting keep cash alive campaign!

After a fantastic gig earlier in the year. We welcome back THE BEATLES EXPERIENCE UK!

Widely regarded as the UK’s most authentic tribute to the Fab Four, they have performed at prestigious venues such as the Cavern Club in Liverpool, the Albert Hall, and festivals including Upton Country Park Festival. We also regularly entertain audiences on Cunard, Saga, and P&O cruise ships and have captivated crowds at iconic locations like the National Railway Museum and Ashton Gate Stadium.

Their performances feature authentic instruments, costumes, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring an immersive experience that faithfully recreates the magic of The Beatles. We bring to life the timeless hits that audiences of all generations love to sing along to, making for an unforgettable night of live music.

https://www.instagram.com/thebeatlesexperienceuk

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100037192196005

Tickets: £12Adv from headfirstbristol https://hdfst.uk/e130689

£15 on the door

THIS THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY

The Thunderbolt welcomes you to our special Xmas Eve “FAMILY FRIENDLY” event on WEDNESDAY DEC 24th between from 4-8pm.

We will have a FIRE PIT in the garden, Mark will be ROASTING CHESTNUTS on the fire!

4pm: DJ CHRIS MASS
Classics & Christmas Crackers on Vinyl!

5.30pm: BREAKOUT VOICES COMMUNITY CHOIR:
Singalong beside the Firepit in the garden

7pm: DJ ELLA MC Dzz
Noughties onwards xmas bangers!

FREE ENTRY 4-8pm

***New Years Eve*** THE EMPERIALS ** on stage 9.45pm** Doors 8pm

TICKETS : £17Adv https://hdfst.uk/e141377

£20 on the Door

Get ready for a high-energy night with This is Ska!, featuring the legendary Emperials—one of the UK’s most dynamic and enduring ska bands. Experience authentic 2 Tone, Trojan, and Studio One sounds brought to life by an explosive 8-piece band with powerhouse horns, driving rhythm, and iconic vocals. Expect all your favourites from The Specials, Madness, The Beat, Bad Manners, and more. Get your tickets now and dance the night away.

http://www.theemperials.co.uk/

TICKETS : £17Adv https://hdfst.uk/e141377

£20 on the Door

MIDAS

Broody, moody, and a little bit fruity

https://www.instagram.com/the.midas.band/

CS FRY

THE JESSAMINE

Alternative Electro Pop Rock Duo with a love of loud guitars, dirty synths and a touch of retro melody

https://www.instagram.com/the_jessamine/

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e143446

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT A (Alt Rock/Metal)

The Underdog Is Back for 2026!

After a record-breaking 2025, Bristol’s most electrifying battle of the bands returns — bigger, louder, and wilder than ever!

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians go head-to-head for one of just eighteen golden spots at the Thekla Semi-Finals. From there, our finalists will fight for glory — and a massive prize haul, including:

£1,000 cash — no strings attached
Two full days in a professional recording studio
50 custom-printed band t-shirts
A killer promo photoshoot
A mini South West tour

Since launching in 2015, The Underdog has become a Bristol institution — the go-to series for up-and-coming talent and a true alternative to the big-name competitions. Past events have rocked legendary venues like O2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

This year, 72 bands from across the South West and Wales will throw down in our biggest showdown yet. But when the dust settles… There can only be one Underdog Champion.

Follow the action and join the hype: #UnderdogBristol

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

The BANDS:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

Please note – the line-up will be determined on the night; bands are listed here in alphabetical order and do not reflect the running order.

✪ BLACK HOLE DECIBEL
Hard Rock · Grunge · Metal
https://linktr.ee/blackholedecibel
WATCH: https://youtu.be/hySSl9OUSug
FOR FANS OF: Queens of the Stone Age, Alice in Chains, Mastodon

✪ BLUNTNOSE
Alt-Metal · Hardcore
https://linktr.ee/bluntnose
LISTEN: https://youtu.be/ZIEAaz1jsss
WATCH: https://youtu.be/60NUtat-9x0
FOR FANS OF: Deftones, A Day To Remember, Kublai Khan

✪ ICE HOUSE
Psychedelic · Stoner
https://linktr.ee/Ice.House
LISTEN: https://on.soundcloud.com/JKDfTW5rDkK9i9UJ3A
WATCH: https://youtu.be/a3Mi2vtX9xU
FOR FANS OF: Queens of the Stone Age, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Kyuss

✪ INSIGNIA
Rock · Metal
https://linktr.ee/Insignia_band
LISTEN: https://youtu.be/5SDcsWrEGP4
WATCH: https://youtu.be/IiDkW4ANP7w
FOR FANS OF: Deftones, Royal Blood, Bring Me The Horizon

✪ INTRUSIVE
Riff Rock
https://linktr.ee/intrusive_band
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/0jzMY7BZSXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/udpR_pQNVhc
FOR FANS OF: Cleopatrick, Alice In Chains, Royal Blood

✪ RALLYANGO
Alt Rock
https://linktr.ee/rallyango
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/5vdK2xLVQ4fpmQC1FjfpAA
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SayCNvKIq70
FOR FANS OF: Queens of the Stone Age, Cage The Elephant, Biffy Clyro

The INFO:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
WHERE? ⇾ The Thunderbolt
124 Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3ED

WHEN? ⇾ Friday 9th January

WHAT TIME? ⇾ 7:00pm-11:00pm

HOW MUCH? ⇾
Super Early Bird (4X Votes): SOLD OUT!
Early Bird (3X Votes): SOLD OUT!
General Release (2X Votes): £9.00 + BF
Final Release (1X Vote): £9.00 + BF

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol
www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

Please double-check the heat you're buying tickets for! We have twelve similar-looking events, so please ensure you buy tickets for the correct heat.

Tickets: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/xi1xjch2/la/bryv

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT B (Indie/Rock)

The Underdog Is Back for 2026!

After a record-breaking 2025, Bristol’s most electrifying battle of the bands returns — bigger, louder, and wilder than ever!

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians go head-to-head for one of just eighteen golden spots at the Thekla Semi-Finals. From there, our finalists will fight for glory — and a massive prize haul, including:

£1,000 cash — no strings attached
Two full days in a professional recording studio
50 custom-printed band t-shirts
A killer promo photoshoot
A mini South West tour

Since launching in 2015, The Underdog has become a Bristol institution — the go-to series for up-and-coming talent and a true alternative to the big-name competitions. Past events have rocked legendary venues like O2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

This year, 72 bands from across the South West and Wales will throw down in our biggest showdown yet. But when the dust settles… There can only be one Underdog Champion.

Follow the action and join the hype: #UnderdogBristol

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

The BANDS:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

Please note – the line-up will be determined on the night; bands are listed here in alphabetical order and do not reflect the running order.

✪ ATHENA
Alt-Pop · Rock
https://hype.co/@musiqbyathena
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/4bXlvzazbYvEnZI2GeW0O6
WATCH: https://youtu.be/NhVFUrX2nZ8?si=UXnK51Z1rwmdEy8I
FOR FANS OF: Pale Waves, Pvris, Chvrches

✪ COMBUSTION
Indie · Rock
https://linktr.ee/COMBUSTIONTHEBAND
FOR FANS OF: Fontaines D.C, The Offspring, Weezer

✪ ROSARY DRIVE
Indie Rock
https://linktr.ee/RosaryDriveMusic
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/PgvtH8lxOXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/jCubIkt3bpc
FOR FANS OF: Catfish and The Bottlemen, Wunderhorse, Sam Fender

✪ SNAKE IN THE FOOTSPA
Indie Rock
https://hoo.be/snakeinthefootspa
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/14IJm2n2R...
WATCH: https://youtu.be/Nznq7e8Qu9k
FOR FANS OF: Catfish and The Bottlemen, The Royston Club, The Kooks

✪ SUPERMARCHE
Indie Fusion
https://www.supermarche.uk/
FOR FANS OF: King Krule, Black Country New Road, Wunderhorse

✪ VIDUALS
Alternative Rock
https://linktr.ee/Viduals
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/4Da9QjrlEkg7LUv2WXMnZE
WATCH: https://youtu.be/fmttOuNXmaI
FOR FANS OF: Weezer, The Foo Fighters, The Libertines

The INFO:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
WHERE? ⇾ The Thunderbolt
124 Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3ED

WHEN? ⇾ Saturday 10th January

WHAT TIME? ⇾ 7:00pm-11:00pm

HOW MUCH? ⇾
Super Early Bird (4X Votes): SOLD OUT!
Early Bird (3X Votes): SOLD OUT!
General Release (2X Votes): £9.00 + BF
Final Release (1X Vote): £9.00 + BF

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol
www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

Please double-check the heat you're buying tickets for! We have twelve similar-looking events, so please ensure you buy tickets for the correct heat.

Tickets: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/70un5j7i/la/n5fz

Heelflip Records Presents

@dulcet_band live at @thethunderboltbristol on the 15th of January!
Supported by @theguide_official_ and @dirtbasementband expect a night of energy from the best punk bands the Southwest has to offer!
Tickets on sale now!
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/heelfliprecords/1899810

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT C (Indie/Pop)

The Underdog Is Back for 2026!

After a record-breaking 2025, Bristol’s most electrifying battle of the bands returns — bigger, louder, and wilder than ever!

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians go head-to-head for one of just eighteen golden spots at the Thekla Semi-Finals. From there, our finalists will fight for glory — and a massive prize haul, including:

£1,000 cash — no strings attached
Two full days in a professional recording studio
50 custom-printed band t-shirts
A killer promo photoshoot
A mini South West tour

Since launching in 2015, The Underdog has become a Bristol institution — the go-to series for up-and-coming talent and a true alternative to the big-name competitions. Past events have rocked legendary venues like O2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

This year, 72 bands from across the South West and Wales will throw down in our biggest showdown yet. But when the dust settles… There can only be one Underdog Champion.

Follow the action and join the hype: #UnderdogBristol

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

The BANDS:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

Please note – the line-up will be determined on the night; bands are listed here in alphabetical order and do not reflect the running order.

✪ AKIRA
Indie Rock · Pop · Hip-Hop
https://linktr.ee/AKIRA_artist
FOR FANS OF: The Wombats, Twenty One Pilots, Loyle Carner

✪ ASH DODD
Indie · Rock
https://linktr.ee/ashdoddofficial
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/lT3O3X3COXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/8mKkBN8_Y7E
FOR FANS OF: Sam Fender, Noah Kahan, Phoebe Bridgers

✪ COME TO MINE
Pop
https://linktr.ee/cometomine
LISTEN: https://youtu.be/3okoeBmSL1U
WATCH: https://youtu.be/D2VmvCYA9DA
FOR FANS OF: Charlie Puth, Troye Sivan, The Weeknd

✪ MACHINE MIRAGE
Indie Rock · Indie Pop · Alternative
https://www.instagram.com/machine_mirage/
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/0mg1VWYQCkCS1KfltbmvHt
FOR FANS OF: Arctic Monkeys, Radiohead, King Gizzard

✪ MOLLY FLETCHER HEBDEN
Alternative Pop Rock
https://linktr.ee/mollyfletcherhebden
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/1tgprLBdPsLeGNvfClAQxB
WATCH: https://youtu.be/ap0kLIx3d9Q
FOR FANS OF: Wolf Alice, Fleetwood Mac, Gracie Abrams

✪ NOVA PARK
Alternative Indie Rock
https://linktr.ee/n0vapark
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/0bkHS5dstUB8mfuYsNoNuo
WATCH: https://youtu.be/lf9A9X7eKGk
FOR FANS OF: Catfish And The Bottlemen, Inhaler, Miles Kane

The INFO:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
WHERE? ⇾ The Thunderbolt
124 Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3ED

WHEN? ⇾ Friday 16th January

WHAT TIME? ⇾ 7:00pm-11:00pm

HOW MUCH? ⇾
Super Early Bird (4X Votes): SOLD OUT!
Early Bird (3X Votes): SOLD OUT!
General Release (2X Votes): £9.00 + BF
Final Release (1X Vote): £9.00 + BF

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol
www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

Please double-check the heat you're buying tickets for! We have twelve similar-looking events, so please ensure you buy tickets for the correct heat.

Tickets: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/lx24xqk2/la/tn2o

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

THE UNDERDOG 2026 · Heat D (Hard Rock/Metal)

The Underdog Is Back for 2026!

After a record-breaking 2025, Bristol’s most electrifying battle of the bands returns — bigger, louder, and wilder than ever!

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians go head-to-head for one of just eighteen golden spots at the Thekla Semi-Finals. From there, our finalists will fight for glory — and a massive prize haul, including:

£1,000 cash — no strings attached
Two full days in a professional recording studio
50 custom-printed band t-shirts
A killer promo photoshoot
A mini South West tour

Since launching in 2015, The Underdog has become a Bristol institution — the go-to series for up-and-coming talent and a true alternative to the big-name competitions. Past events have rocked legendary venues like O2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

This year, 72 bands from across the South West and Wales will throw down in our biggest showdown yet. But when the dust settles… There can only be one Underdog Champion.

Follow the action and join the hype: #UnderdogBristol

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

The BANDS:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

Please note – the line-up will be determined on the night; bands are listed here in alphabetical order and do not reflect the running order.

✪ ALIBI
Alt Rock
https://linktr.ee/weareyouralibi.band
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/YEbg6ogPOXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/xA5LokSWCUw
FOR FANS OF: Soundgarden, Mammoth, Halestorm

✪ INSINCERE
Dark Metal
https://www.allmylinks.com/insincereband
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/4VoFwP6fwhFv9mLxZrfelE
WATCH: https://youtu.be/sCEup_Y2mh4
FOR FANS OF: Lacuna Coil, Evanescence, Within Temptation

✪ MARTYRS SAINT
Crossover Thrash · Hardcore
https://linktr.ee/martyrthrash
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/MKOhl5tNSXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/b3GAzD-dyZo
FOR FANS OF: Gojira, Megadeth, Power Trip

✪ POST VITA
Grunge · Metal
https://linktr.ee/postvitabanduk
FOR FANS OF: Deftones, Pantera, Type O Negative

✪ RIZEN
Rock
https://www.rizen-rock.com/
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/5i4Nv2N8RXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/hU1s7CZ1gaI
FOR FANS OF: Def Leppard, Mötley Crue, Royal Blood

✪ SHADOW OF ICARUS
Progressive Metal
https://linktr.ee/shadowoficarus
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/album/6yqEDQeS7nyH6WuIH88vvN
WATCH: https://youtu.be/kEqW8xw9xmA
FOR FANS OF: Trivium, Metallica, Twelve Foot Ninja

The INFO:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
WHERE? ⇾ The Thunderbolt
124 Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3ED

WHEN? ⇾ Saturday 17th January

WHAT TIME? ⇾ 7:00pm-11:00pm

HOW MUCH? ⇾
Super Early Bird (4X Votes): SOLD OUT!
Early Bird (3X Votes): SOLD OUT!
General Release (2X Votes): £9.00 + BF
Final Release (1X Vote): £9.00 + BF

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol
www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

Please double-check the heat you're buying tickets for! We have twelve similar-looking events, so please ensure you buy tickets for the correct heat.

Tickets: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/k7fie3on/la/shj5

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

THE UNDERDOG 2026 · Heat E (Indie/Rock)

The Underdog Is Back for 2026!

After a record-breaking 2025, Bristol’s most electrifying battle of the bands returns — bigger, louder, and wilder than ever!

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians go head-to-head for one of just eighteen golden spots at the Thekla Semi-Finals. From there, our finalists will fight for glory — and a massive prize haul, including:

£1,000 cash — no strings attached
Two full days in a professional recording studio
50 custom-printed band t-shirts
A killer promo photoshoot
A mini South West tour

Since launching in 2015, The Underdog has become a Bristol institution — the go-to series for up-and-coming talent and a true alternative to the big-name competitions. Past events have rocked legendary venues like O2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

This year, 72 bands from across the South West and Wales will throw down in our biggest showdown yet. But when the dust settles… There can only be one Underdog Champion.

Follow the action and join the hype: #UnderdogBristol

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

The BANDS:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

Please note – the line-up will be determined on the night; bands are listed here in alphabetical order and do not reflect the running order.

✪ A STRANGE ALLIANCE
Indie · Alt Rock
https://linktr.ee/astrangealliance
WATCH: https://youtu.be/MnIb5mGNO_o
FOR FANS OF: Oasis, Inhaler, Catfish and The Bottlemen

✪ KOOKABURRA EAT YOU
Psych Rock
LISTEN: https://spotify.link/IUnp7XwFWXb
WATCH: https://youtu.be/qGMA6_VDEuw
FOR FANS OF: King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Tropical F*ck Storm, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets

✪ ROMAN
Indie Folk Rock
https://linktr.ee/romanband
LISTEN: https://on.soundcloud.com/hGgjPd5uoXvIeS10f9
WATCH: https://youtube.com/shorts/__0kypPtX1o?si=J5q-sSBg33ea4hnZ
FOR FANS OF: Arcade Fire, The Stone Roses, Wolf Alice

✪ THE AMBUSHED POETS
Rock · Soul · Indie
https://linktr.ee/theambushedpoets
WATCH: https://youtu.be/84aDE43Ursw
FOR FANS OF: The Rolling Stones, Santana, Fontaines DC

✪ THE PAVILION
Indie Rock
https://linktr.ee/thepavilionband
LISTEN: https://youtu.be/3Ei_YTD1sbo
WATCH: https://youtu.be/fwTUj0c53Tg
FOR FANS OF: Catfish and The Bottlemen, The Backseat Lovers, Overpass

✪ THE PROBLEM SOULS
Rock · Britpop
https://linktr.ee/theproblemsouls
LISTEN: https://on.soundcloud.com/leN3...
WATCH: https://youtu.be/KKltk742XKc
FOR FANS OF: The Verve, Sam Fender, Manic Street Preachers

The INFO:
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WHERE? ⇾ The Thunderbolt
124 Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3ED

WHEN? ⇾ Friday 23rd January

WHAT TIME? ⇾ 7:00pm-11:00pm

HOW MUCH? ⇾
Super Early Bird (4X Votes): SOLD OUT!
Early Bird (3X Votes): SOLD OUT!
General Release (2X Votes): £9.00 + BF
Final Release (1X Vote): £9.00 + BF

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:
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Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol
www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

Please double-check the heat you're buying tickets for! We have twelve similar-looking events, so please ensure you buy tickets for the correct heat.

Tickets: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/2xe9ggui/la/h33t

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · Heat F (Alt Rock/Punk)

The Underdog Is Back for 2026!

After a record-breaking 2025, Bristol’s most electrifying battle of the bands returns — bigger, louder, and wilder than ever!

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians go head-to-head for one of just eighteen golden spots at the Thekla Semi-Finals. From there, our finalists will fight for glory — and a massive prize haul, including:

£1,000 cash — no strings attached
Two full days in a professional recording studio
50 custom-printed band t-shirts
A killer promo photoshoot
A mini South West tour

Since launching in 2015, The Underdog has become a Bristol institution — the go-to series for up-and-coming talent and a true alternative to the big-name competitions. Past events have rocked legendary venues like O2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

This year, 72 bands from across the South West and Wales will throw down in our biggest showdown yet. But when the dust settles… There can only be one Underdog Champion.

Follow the action and join the hype: #UnderdogBristol

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

The BANDS:
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Please note – the line-up will be determined on the night; bands are listed here in alphabetical order and do not reflect the running order.

✪ BUTANE SKIES
Alternative Melodic Rock
https://linktr.ee/butaneskies
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/5DNxdhmTncGhqDuOLmFZUY
WATCH: https://youtu.be/70a7HeO4u80
FOR FANS OF: Muse, My Chemical Romance, Radiohead

✪ DIRTBASEMENT
Alternative Rock · Pop Punk
https://www.instagram.com/dirtbasementband/
LISTEN: https://music.apple.com/gb/album/climate/1840463906
FOR FANS OF: New Found Glory, Neck Deep, Blink-182

✪ HËLENBACH
Heavy Rock
https://www.instagram.com/helenbach666/
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/0YUBNSRlgOEkqTFLqb0Eyz
FOR FANS OF: Motorhead, Iron Maiden, Lillian Axe

✪ INDECISION
Alt Rock
https://linktr.ee/indecisionbanduk
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/1007khbq0PbtZq2KcqolVD
FOR FANS OF: Deftones, Smashing Pumpkins, Basement

✪ SACRELIGION
Grunge · Punk
https://linktr.ee/sacreligion
FOR FANS OF: Deftones, Mannequin Pussy, Nirvana

✪ TRAITORS
Garage Rock · Alternative Blues
https://linktr.ee/traitorsbanduk
LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/track/3hmk8SCR7wQomw97ruGjHU
WATCH: https://youtu.be/MKW-_jMaXpM
FOR FANS OF: All Them Witches, The Bonnevilles, The Kills

The INFO:
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WHERE? ⇾ The Thunderbolt
124 Bath Rd, Bristol, BS4 3ED

WHEN? ⇾ Saturday 24th January

WHAT TIME? ⇾ 7:00pm-11:00pm

HOW MUCH? ⇾
Super Early Bird (4X Votes): SOLD OUT!
Early Bird (3X Votes): SOLD OUT!
General Release (2X Votes): £9.00 + BF
Final Release (1X Vote): £9.00 + BF

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:
▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol
www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

Please double-check the heat you're buying tickets for! We have twelve similar-looking events, so please ensure you buy tickets for the correct heat.

Tickets: https://www.fatsoma.com/e/s9s78jkw/la/agpm

THE HARRI MASON BAND

Harri Mason is a Bristol born singer-songwriter and she released three albums with all the music written, recorded and produced by her at home. With influences like Bruce Springsteen and Fleetwood Mac, Harri is able to curate a niche within Soft Rock and Folk that speaks to various audiences. She has been releasing new music this year which has been well received and has been played on various radio stations including BBC Bristol and Amazing Radio.

https://www.facebook.com/harrimasonmusic

https://www.instagram.com/harrimasonmusic/

www.harrimason.com

LITTLE BIG MAN

There's a lil' bit o' country in everyone. Just knock back a cold one, and get into the music!

https://www.facebook.com/littlebigmanband

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e143448

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT G

Bristol’s biggest battle of the bands returns to the Thunderbolt once again after celebrating it’s ten-year anniversary in 2025!

Bands will compete for a range of prizes (£1,000 cash, studio time, merchandise), at venues like The Thunderbolt, Thekla and O2 Academy.

Want to get involved? Click here: https://forms.gle/hZqd1daRMWV7Q

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT A

The Underdog returns in 2026 with a special ten-year anniversary series.

The Heats will see hundreds of local musicians battle it out for one of the twelve spots at the Thekla Semi Finals. Our finalists will be competing for our stacked prize table:

⭐️ £1,000 in no-strings-attached cash

⭐️ Two days recording with Orchard Studios

⭐️ PR deal with Headstrong

⭐️ 50 t-shirts printed by Pins & Knuckles

⭐️ Press shoot with Sam Habridge

⭐️ Bespoke mini-tour by We Need Bands

First launched in 2015, The Underdog quickly established itself on the Bristol scene as an alternative to the larger national competitions. Hundreds of local bands have competed at venues like o2 Academy, Thekla, The Fleece, Exchange, The Thunderbolt, and Zed Alley.

Bands from around the South West and Wales will battle it out at the 2026 Underdog competition, our biggest-ever event series... but there can only be one winner!

Follow the competition by using the hashtag #UnderdogBristol on social media.

Please Note: Only one ticket can be claimed per person (you cannot buy multiple tickets for the extra votes).

Follow All The Action:

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Search #UnderdogBristol on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with all The Underdog 2026 news, or follow us on social media via:

www.instagram.com/UnderdogBristol

www.facebook.com/UnderdogBristol

--- THE LATER ROUNDS ---

Semi Final A · Sunday 30th March · Thekla

Semi Final B · Sunday 6th April · Thekla

Grand Final · Friday 5th June · o2 Academy, Bristol

Steve Miles releases his second album as European Sun, accompanied by Ian Button (drums), Rob Pursey (bass) and Elin Miles (additional vocals). Tonight, it's the launch gig.

If one LP could act as a refutation of the toxic culture of ‘masculine energy’ and the tech bro-sponsored whipping up of hatred that blights our lives - this is it.

It is true of the lyrics. Nostalgia for an imagined past where men were men, and racism was de rigeur is eviscerated in title track When Britain Was Great. Fetishisation of a World War by patriots who are too pumped up to realise the war was a fight against Nazism is picked apart in Angels In The Clouds. And the clumsy, half-arsed struggle to seek something better, to try to escape the trap of cynical acceptance of it all, is sardonically observed in the comically accident-prone Falling Down The Stairs With Arthur Seaton. All this is interspersed with deeply personal tracks like The Space She Left, unflinchingly exposing emotional vulnerability and anxiety, and with carefree pop songs, still able to access the wide-eyed wisdom of childhood: The Sea Is A Pirate’s Best Friend expresses a kind of joy that we all had once, but have lost contact with.

The music is a refutation of ‘masculine energy’ too: it is utterly devoid of that grim modern male quality ‘swagger’. Sometimes echoing the casual, intimate, fragile tones of the TV Personalities, the songs are bluntly emotional but shamelessly catchy. On other occasions - louder occasions - the echo of an angry Wreckless Eric riff can be heard. The warmth and gentleness of the vocal might remind you of Jonathan Richman. The experimentation - the brass section, the feedback, the occasional reggae rhythm – is reminiscent of the earliest, fearless phase of punk adventurism – The Slits, The Mekons, The Desperate Bicycles even. Punk before it regressed to Rock. This hand-made music is the opposite of AI-generated crud. Every bit of it, even the chaotic bits – especially the chaotic bits - are deliberate and meticulously thought through.

Special Guests - BUSH & FEY
Bush and Fey are a Bristol-based ‘psychoustic' duo comprising Steve Bush on singing and Fran Fey on guitar and singing. In the past 20 years they’ve released four albums including a recent ‘Best of…’ on TICKETS: wegottickets.com/event/678510/

WE NEED BANDS Present: THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT J

Bristol’s biggest battle of the bands returns to the Thunderbolt once again after celebrating it’s ten-year anniversary in 2025!

Bands will compete for a range of prizes (£1,000 cash, studio time, merchandise), at venues like The Thunderbolt, Thekla and O2 Academy.

Want to get involved? Click here: https://forms.gle/hZqd1daRMWV7Q

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT K

Bristol’s biggest battle of the bands returns to the Thunderbolt once again after celebrating it’s ten-year anniversary in 2025!

Bands will compete for a range of prizes (£1,000 cash, studio time, merchandise), at venues like The Thunderbolt, Thekla and O2 Academy.

Want to get involved? Click here: https://forms.gle/hZqd1daRMWV7Q

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT L

Bristol’s biggest battle of the bands returns to the Thunderbolt once again after celebrating it’s ten-year anniversary in 2025!

Bands will compete for a range of prizes (£1,000 cash, studio time, merchandise), at venues like The Thunderbolt, Thekla and O2 Academy.

Want to get involved? Click here: https://forms.gle/hZqd1daRMWV7Q

WE NEED BANDS Present:THE UNDERDOG 2026

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THE UNDERDOG 2026 · HEAT M

Bristol’s biggest battle of the bands returns to the Thunderbolt once again after celebrating it’s ten-year anniversary in 2025!

Bands will compete for a range of prizes (£1,000 cash, studio time, merchandise), at venues like The Thunderbolt, Thekla and O2 Academy.

Want to get involved? Click here: https://forms.gle/hZqd1daRMWV7Q

The razor sharp raconteur and songsmith, a carrier for a punk/post punk/folk is back!

This is the official “Fairy tales and Lies” Album Launch! The new album last year at Alma Vale Studio in Clifton. Engineered by brilliant and highly respected Luke Cawthra.

With the comradeship of the uk`s most magnificent powerhouse rhythm section of John Langley on drums and Mike Youe on bass, Rita is going to deliver a night of glittering, high-energy, rock'n'roll-fueled glory!

““ Bristol’s enduring riot grrrrl rock’n’roll banshee Rita Lynch needs to be seen to be worshipped. The St Paul’s icon of razor-blade guitar anthems is always essential viewing FFO: PJ Harvey, Patti Smith, Screaming Females, Breeders, Ex Hex."“ HEADFIRSTBRISTOL.COM

https://ritalynch.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/rita.lynch.121

TICKET LINK: https://hdfst.uk/e134606

THE FALLEN LEAVES - serving 'Punk Rock for Gentleman', this classic band traces its roots all the way back to The Subway Sect. Their sound has been described as "Somewhere between The Who and The Ramones” and they will be showcasing their latest album: "Simple Songs for Complex People”.

SOCIAL SECURITY - After seeing The Damned perform in late 76, Social Security left their jobs and signed on. They recruited 'Spy' a Damned roadie so named because the Damned were convinced he was a spy for the Pistols. With 'Spy' on board as their new singer, The Socials became major players in the Bristol and West Country's burgeoning punk scene.
Signed by Heartbeat Records They went on to record their first single on Bristol's newly formed Heartbeat record label. The single, a four track E.P. Was critically acclaimed by the legendary John Peel. Over the years the single has been re-released appearing on many highly regarded Punk anthology albums.
After a lot of arm twisting by their former management and due to public pressure Social Security relented and have now reformed playing extensively and showcasing their unique wit and song writing abilities. Social Security are true originals, Don't miss them!!

CARNIEPUNKS -play 'Acid-crypt swamp-punkadelia'. They channel the spirits of early post-punk bands such as Killing Joke, Bauhaus and The Birthday Party and the deranged psychedelic blues of Dr John the Night Tripper. Carniepunks excavate the ghosts of their birthplace's dark heart in drum-heavy songs spiked with a tincture of dread. The fetid Avon delta is a cursed place full of bad magic.

THE EIDERDOWNS -The Eiderdowns - Garage folk rock janglers with a psych twist - taking cues from the Byrds and The Lovin' Spoonful.