"Bristol born and bred artist CMHD has been making absolute vibes since 2014, starting off by making comedy rap his first song was "Dringo Dreams" which was a song about the 2014 World Cup. After a career change in 2020 it led CMHD to meet people within the music business. He then released his debut single Keeping It Fresh which got played on BBC Radio Bristol by Chris Arnold. This is just the beginning

Now with the release of his second single Doing Well he intends to expand his music and explore different genres to add to his music collection A third single release with the "Sound of the summer" Dance classic Get Loose got CMHD into a whole new genre of music with a more commercial vibe  

Now after many professional singles and a Radio interview on Ujima Radio CMHD has now released his debut EP A Sensory Experience in which you get taken on a journey of the senses starting off trippy and depressed turning into wavy and rhythmic, and ending of reflective"

eveny details TBA

HICKTOWN BREAKOUT

Hicktown Breakout are a 4-piece Southern Rock band fuelled by a passion for Country, Rock & Blues.

They bring a high energy, upbeat gritty southern country sound with a whiskey fuelled twang that gets our audiences jumping.

This is theyre last show folks a farewell not to be missed this is a night you will regret not coming to

https://www.facebook.com/hicktownbreakout/?locale=en_GB

https://www.instagram.com/hicktownbreakout/?hl=en

BEN HUTCHESON

Independent Country-Rock Artist based in Bristol, UK.

https://www.instagram.com/ben_hutchesonmusic/

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/e133784

THE THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY

Anthemic indie rock twinned with poetic lyricism make this gifted Somerset singer songwriter very much one to watch.

For fans of The Killers, Gang of Youths, Sam Fender, The K’s

TICKETS: https://thisfeeling.co.uk/samfostersmith/

Hold tight Degenerate Fest is back and this time will be happening at the legendary Thunderbolt in Bristol

Once again, we're proud to be announcing a cracking line-up for the fourth round of bands. New hosting venue, same recepie: bands playing back to back from the afternoon, outdoor area, lots of great beer and sweaty fun!

Line-up:

Los Pepes

The Crooks (Italy)

Crooked Little Sons

The Loyal Cheaters (Italy)

Year Zero

Botox

JC And The Great Plague

The Commies

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e129199

HISSY FIST

HISSY FIST are a queer, femme and non-binary collective that are here

to tear down walls - both sonic and societal. With a genre-straddling

fusion of distorted punk rawness, electrifying beats and ethereal bog

witch harmonies, their tough and tender offerings are the soundtrack

to resistance and community building. Prepare to be lured into the

depths of your own rage. Anti-state, anti-fascist, anti-conformist.

https://www.instagram.com/hissyfist/

https://www.youtube.com/@HISSYFIST

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574762647104

https://on.soundcloud.com/uf792wsF6Ai4Dcqh7

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e133192

CATS ON THE MOON

bristol based 4 peice shoegaze band

https://www.instagram.com/catsonthemoonband/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zmz4ICUiJC8

NXANXCY

ethereal spookywooky folk genre

https://www.instagram.com/nxanxcy/

SHUTTERSPEED

90s influenced baggy/shoegaze

https://www.instagram.com/shutterspeed_band/

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e133785

THE THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY

HOLLOW BOOK

this rock three peice from bristol have played a number of shows supporting other bands, but have finally got their own headline show be sure to come along to see what surprises they have for us at their first headliner here at the thunderbolt

https://www.facebook.com/HollowBookband

https://www.instagram.com/hollowbookband/

PAPER FISHES

Andre Levy leads a rag tag band of freewheelin' musical sharpshooters on a dark and dusty Beat Americana roadtrip.

https://www.instagram.com/paperfishesband/

LEANNE PEREIRA

comedy songwriter.

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e133786

THE COASTAL PATH

Glastonbury based four-piece band playing accessible, trippy, ambient indie rock.

https://www.facebook.com/thecoastalpath/

https://www.instagram.com/thecoastalpathband/

FAITH IN GEOMETRY

Instrumental four piece

based in the South West UK

https://www.facebook.com/faithingeometry

https://www.instagram.com/faithingeometry/

CHAMFER

chamfer blends elements of folk, rock, spoken word and indeie

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4o3bk7hjhbYVkl4jbbAgFv

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e133787

GURP

Formed in summer 2023, GURP is a bristol-based folk-grunge band bringing a fresh, chaotic charm to the city's music scene. GURP started as two families jamming together on blissful sunday evenings. out of that joyful chaos grew a full-bodied sound that fuses darkly comic lyrics with high energy folk. drawing on influences from klezmer to grunge and jazz to pop punk, GURP blends clarinet, accordian, violin, guitar and drums to create something both raucous and yearning. GURP (Andy,Emily,Joe,Michael and Ramona) don't take themselves too seriously - but their sound is seriously infectious

https://www.instagram.com/gurp.band/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/20bWN8HgHilPDLCdIEyYw6

AVALEN

West Country Folk Music

https://www.instagram.com/avalen.band/

BALKANY BAND
Eclectic mix of Balkon melodies.

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e133186

Wicked World Promotions proudly presents the very first of the monthly metal nights at the thunderbolt this time featuring

CALVARIA

Calvaria is a melodic metal band hailing from Bristol, UK, formed in late 2022. They deliver a fresh take on early 2000s metalcore, blending it with a modern edge, featuring soaring vocal hooks, driving riffs, and heavy breakdowns. The band is known for their high-energy live performances and aims to bridge the gap between past and present metal sounds.

https://www.instagram.com/calvariaband/?hl=enhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/7zoDn5Bom4iSdr0VEtkhMZ?si=v_rMeRw0T9m1TLxHN6yMkQ

AZALEAS

The Azaleas are a 5-piece hardcore metal band from the West Midlands. They are known for their melodic hardcore and metal sound.

https://www.instagram.com/azaleas.band/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7p2cxKZd4OokKGO3uDJIMp?si=iQjGVKbxSnymDVFGqnaenA

AVICIDE

Southwest Based Alt Metal Band focusing on Powerful Vocals and Intense Breakdowns!

https://www.instagram.com/avicide_uk/

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e134604

OPEN RETURN

Based in Bristol, we’re an indie rock band featuring Lily on vocals, Hal on drums, and Charlie, Jacob and Josh on guitar and bass

after impresing everyone at their first show supporting swurve the indie rockers are back to headline and bring the party to the bolt

https://www.instagram.com/openreturnband/

TIME TRAVELLERS ANONYMOUS

Lost in time? You’re not alone. ️

Bristol based, any time.

Brandon | Pete | Ben | Sam | Dash

https://www.instagram.com/timetravellersanonymous_/

AMALFI

fresh indie rockers amalfi take to the stage to release their sound to the thunderbolt one not to be missed

https://www.instagram.com/weareamalfi/

TICKETS : https://hdfst.uk/e134618

Adam and the Hellcats bring their new Album 9 Lives to The Thunderbolt - new riffs but the same fantastic show. Joined by the ever popular FUGITVE and locals Blufin.

Following on from their highly acclaimed debut Album and the success of Catalyst Adam and his Hellcats return with a new musical offering showing a diverse range of talent from the band.

Now setting out on their Fourth UK Tour - this time as Headline they will be bringing the Kitty magic to many town and cities.

Fugitive are celebrating 35 years of rock will be coming down from Liverpool to kick off the party along with local rising stars Blufin.

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e130996

THE THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY!

"Fresh from stunning receptions at gigs and festival appearances aplenty, Headsticks are proud to release their fifth studio album, 'The Best Thing On TV', their best work yet: 12 tracks that flow effortlessly from high octane punk-rock to poignant, delicate folk.

With an ever growing fanbase at their side, Headsticks are reaching new heights with their self proclaimed ‘Revolutionary Punk Roots Rock’n’Roll’ which has cross genre appeal seeing the band gaining endless plaudits from pillars of the Folk/Roots, Post Punk, Punk, and even the rock and blues fraternities. Sell out shows across the country as well as high profile tour supports with the likes of New Model Army, The Men They Couldn't Hang, Ferocious Dog, and Terrorvision to name a few, have seen the band profile rise.

Since late 2012 the band have relentlessly gigged and recorded and their hard work is now well and truly coming to fruition with their albums and their live performances receiving rave reviews from all corners of the musical spectrum as anthemic choruses, barbed lyrics, irresistible riffs, and uplifting beats are combined with a wry sense of humour, to deliver social commentary to encapsulate the spirit of this unique band. 2025 includes prestigious festival slots including headlines at many grass root festivals as well as returns to the likes of Bearded Theory and Rebellion where the band have become firm favourites.

Whether it’s the full throttle, heart pounding stompers, the anthemic singalongs, or the haunting acoustic ballads, Headsticks deliver an experience like no other band, built on honesty, integrity, bloody hard work, and a passion for what they believe."

TICKETS: https://www.gigantic.com/headsticks-tickets/bristol-thunderbolt/2025-10-10-20-00

A DOUBLE HEADLINER FEATURING

CLASHNIKOVS

Old school Punk Rock and New Wave and Originals 1976-80 style

https://www.facebook.com/Clashnikovs

THE X-RAYS

The X-Rays play stripped down Punk N’ Roll from CBGB to The marquee. Ramones, Clash, Sex Pistols, Johnny Thunders, Buzzcocks, Undertones, Cramps, Stray Cats, Stooges, Dead Boys and more…

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565241805709

TICKETS: https://hdfst.uk/e134620

THE BIG HOWEVER
Bristol based art folk garage collective. Melodic, intelligent, yet unintelligent popular music. Non-iconic & sustainable.
Using discarded musicians found locally, The Big However play their own peculiar version of post truth, sub-tonic, melodic, bristolian lo-fi, folk, indie.

https://thebighowever.bandcamp.com/

Doors: 7:30PM
Tickets: £5 Advance / £6 on the door
Ticket Link: https://hdfst.uk/e135192

Sea shanty and folk rock troubadours The Captain's Beard return to the Thunderbolt for more songs about beards and Cockney Mermaids.

Doors at 7:30

£10 In Advance 
£15 on the door

TICKETS: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/thecaptainsbeard

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

THE JESUS BOLT: The Bristol based duo of Hazel Winter and Gerard Starkie perform with their songs of love, death, revenge & the past and the present, packed with humour, soul and guitars.

https://www.facebook.com/thejesusbolt

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

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

John Otway is an English singer-songwriter who has built a sizeable cult audience through extensive touring, a surreal sense of humour and a self-deprecating underdog persona.

From the age of 9, Otway knew he wanted to be a pop star. But even at that young age, having listened to his sister's Beatles and Stones records, he knew he would never be able to do what they do. However, when his sister got the latest Bob Dylan album, he knew there was a place for him and he set about learning how to play guitar.

Otway had to wait until 1977 and the rise of punk before his dream of fame and fortune would finally become a reality. Having caught the eye of the producers of the BBC's Old Grey Whistle Test, Otway's performance on that show would grab the attention of the watching audience. Otway, ever the showman, decided to jump on to the amplifier of his colleague during a performance of Bob Lind's Cheryl's Going Home. (Un)fortunately for Otway, he misjudged his leap and sent Wild Willy Barrett’s amplifier tumbling as he crashed down straddling the box under the amp.

The full force of the impact was absorbed by the most tender body parts, but in doing this one simple act of recklessness and his wanton disregard for his own safety, Otway was the talk of everyone who watched that evening's programme.

TICKETS: https://wegottickets.com/event/669159

Rushed are a three-piece authentic tribute act performing the music of Canada’s finest progressive Rock trio – Rush.
They deliver a monster three-hour Rush show (2 sets) with authentic sound, covering all 4 decades of the vast Rush catalogue while priding themselves on performing a large amount of early material. replicating the raw energy that Rush always delivered consistently back in the 70’s.
“Geddy” belts out those high notes in the original keys whilst at the same time playing blistering complex base lines and keyboards.
“Neil” keeps the band together during the complex time changes and structures on every song. He loves his tech and uses the latest gear to replicate those iconic Rush sounds.
“Alex” has spent hours learning that unique style of playing and guitar tone.
It’s a night not to be missed by any Rush fan - 120 Places only - book early!
http://www.rushedisaband.co.uk/

TICKETS: £16Adv

https://www.headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/the-thunderbolt/fri-28-nov-rushed-130236#e130236

SMaLL WILL BE APPEARING AT THE THUNDERBOLT ON FEBRUARY 10th 2024!!

SMäLL are Bristol's top Clash, Bowie, Buzzcocks, Kings of Convenience, Peter Bjorn and John, White Stripes, Martha and the Muffins, Strokes, Magnetic Fields, Wire, Breeders, Pixies, Stooges, Velvet Underground, Beck, Camper Van Beethoven, Felt, Fall, Uncle Tom Cobbley . . . tribute band!

Doors: 7.30pm

TICKETS: £5 advance / £6 on the door.

TICKET LINK: https://hdfst.uk/e101437

THE THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY!

THE EMPERIALS are a long running major force on the UK’s Ska scene with a live reputation for fun, entertaining, professional and very lively shows.
With an 8 piece line up; the rock solid drums, pounding bass, skanking guitar and Hammond keyboard provide the basis of the band, with the tightest and most energetic brass section in the land adding the blasting horn lines, all topped off by versatile lead & backing vocals.
With a set consisting of our own take on classic ska songs, from the days of 2tone, Trojan and Studio One, we never fail to fill a venue, get the dance floor packed and the crowds singing, dancing and shouting for more.
ONSTAGE AT 9PM

Doors: 7.30pm
Tickets: £10advance / £12 on the door.
Ticket Link: https://hdfst.uk/e132377

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

THE THUNDERBOLT IS CLOSED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY!

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

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

❄️6pm: DJ ELLA MC Dzz ❄️

❄️4pm- 'DJ PEANUT: XMAS SEASONAL NUTS.…..Macadamia? Pecans? Brazil Nuts? Walnuts? No! You need DJ PEANUT . The Peanut will be spinning Xmas bangers alright! inc The Waitresses, Kinks, Pogues, Phil Spector etc. and some old soul, reggae, punk etc. - groovy good time tunes, I'd say!

🎄🎄 FREE ENTRY 🎄 🎄 4-8pm