LOOPFEST 2024 Festival Programme

THE FUTUREHEADS

FRIDAY 3RD MAY 2024 · FROM 5PM

SHREWSBURY CASTLE

THE FUTUREHEADS

Having first emerged at the start of the ’00s amidst a burgeoning swarm of guitar bands, the Sunderland quartet, with their proud regional accents and spiky, playful sensibilities, stuck out from the off.

CHRIS HAWKINS

Our favourite ‘local boy done good and become a national DJ’ success story and now AMBASSADOR (Ferrero Rocher’s are on him) of Loopfest itself! Providing us with a DJ set that is as electric as LOOPFEST is itself.

ADULT PLAY

Genre-jumping funky indie electro babes who have wowed everyone from Simon Le Bon to Radio 6. They’re gonna be massive and we’re gonna say LOOPFEST was here first.

PASSIVE FIX

Metalcore/funk/indie. Try to define it if you will, this will lead only to futility. What we can say is just listen. Your mind will be upgraded to the latest stable operating system. You won’t ever have to play Snake 3D again.

TICKETS £25 ADV. TICKET SALES FROM THIS EVENT PAY FOR THE WHOLE OF LOOPFEST. PLEASE VISIT TICKETLOOP.CO.UK FOR MORE INFORMATION.

FAMILY DAY

SATURDAY 4TH MAY 2024 · FROM 11AM

SHREWSBURY CASTLE

MAGIC KEV

11:00

JUNIOR JUNGLE

12:00

THE ENDINGS

13:20

JACK VALERO

14:40

MANOR HEIGHTS

16:00

His name’s Kev, yeah? And he’s a bit magic, get me? So we call him Magic Kev, and he’s gonna be your new favourite magician who also happens to be a kick-ass vinyl DJ. Kapeeche? Catch him DJing throughout the day as well as perfoming his magic show from 11:00.

Let’s be honest, most kids events are shite. Boring, bland, but hey the kids are having fun, right? Well, why can’t you have a bit of joy too Mom and Dad? A couple of hours with Junior Jungle will have both you and your nippers smiling for the rest of the day.

Folky, rocky, indie shenanigans with a band who know exactly how to keep a crowd under their spell. They have simply grown into a monstrously efficient and brilliant live act.

Son of legend Billy Bragg, Jack Valero straddles continents infusing classic, old-school British songwriting with a timeless American rock sound, creating a transatlantic indie-rock mash-up that is simply irrepressible.

You love Skaburst dontcha? Well, imagine if they decided to write their own songs – sounds pretty sweet, don’t it? Well, imagine no more, it’s HAPPENING at Loop.

Simply magnificent ska/punk/rock.

NUBIYAN TWIST

SATURDAY 4TH MAY 2024 · FROM 5.30PM

SHREWSBURY CASTLE

NUBIYAN TWIST

Well, this is going to be a bit brilliant isn’t it? Not many artists can combine their love of jazz, beats, dnb, ska and reggae and create songs that can enchant a nation. The twist can though. Regularly played on national radio, and one of our personal top five Jools Holland performances.

SMOKE LIKE A FISH

With an up-tempo two-toned Ska-pop-punkish attack, Smoke like a Fish from Mid Wales relentlessly pump the offbeat with groove and aggression, behind brass splattered riffs, catchy choruses and social commentry.

FIGHT THE BEAR

Shropshire’s own indie heroes will be returning to live action this year, and LOOPFEST can’t wait to dance in the sun to their euphoric, heartfelt anthems.

Plus DJ Funky Cold Medina.

TICKETS £25 ADV. TICKET SALES FROM THIS EVENT PAY FOR THE WHOLE OF LOOPFEST. PLEASE VISIT TICKETLOOP.CO.UK

BEARDYMAN

SUNDAY 5TH MAY 2024 · FROM 12PM

SHREWSBURY CASTLE

BEARDYMAN

What can we say that hasn’t been said about our favourite beatboxer/DJ/musician that hasn’t already been said? Expect elements of dub/trance/electro/indie/hiphop all designed to make you shake your tush.

THE UPTOWN MONOTONES

Didgeridoo? Yes. Balloon solos? Why not. Beatboxing with acoustic shouty singalongs? Naturally. If you’ve seen them, you know you will see them again.

GREYSHA

Our favourite songstress from the Shire writes the best songs this side of Lana Del Rey and Mac de Marco.

TICKETS £25 ADV. PLEASE VISIT TICKETLOOP.CO.UK TICKET SALES FROM THIS EVENT PAY FOR THE WHOLE OF LOOPFEST.

DUTTY MOONSHINE BIG BAND SUNDAY 5TH MAY 2024 · FROM 5.30PM

SHREWSBURY CASTLE

DUTTY MOONSHINE BIG BAND

The 12-piece force of nature that is the Dutty Moonshine Big Band have spent the better part of 3-years writing, honing and perfecting their signature sound of heavy dance music meets bombastic brass.

MIGHTY VIPERS

Fresh, unpredictable and irrepressibly danceable, this 10-piece big band effortlessly swerves genre definition with matador finesse.

ZEN BASEBALLBAT

Zen Baseballbat have unmistakable shades of post-ska reggae simmering with new-wave riffs, rhythmical plinks and bowel-shaking rumbles.

Plus DJ Nutzo.

TICKETS £25 ADV. PLEASE VISIT TICKETLOOP.CO.UK

ST. MARY’S CHURCH

St Mary’s Pl, Dogpole, Shrewsbury

SY1 1DX

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

DANNY BRADLEY 13:00 A one man orchestra… A poetic soul, and a sublime vocal range, reminiscent of the late Jeff Buckley.

THOM MORECROFT 13:00 BBC Radio 6 Music playlisted and described by ex-editor of NME, Q, Mojo and Word Paul Du Noyer as “cheering and addictive”.

FAINTLINE 14:20 Low-key alt-pop songs that evoke London Grammar at their finest or touches of St Vincent at her most thoughtful, but with groove and a bass line that will be in your head for days.

HOT RUBBER 14:10 Shropshire-based covers featuring some of LOOPFEST’s favourite folk. One to get those good time Sunday feelings.

SIMON HOWARD 16:00 Folk from the big smoke. Expect a huge sound that brings to mind the emotive freedom of travelling down wide country roads with the wind bellowing in your hair.

GUEST SINGER 17:20 Indie synth-pop really does flourish in the industrial wastelands of Northern England and Guest Singer carries the baton on from the legends that defined the genre.

COUSIN KULA 18:40 With possibilities of jazz, the emphatic energy of club culture, and the sonic tapestries of psychedelia to name but a few.

THE SCRIBES BOOMBOX 20:00 The Scribes Boombox is a brand new project born of the multi-award winning act The Scribes with a blend of live instrumentation and sampling set against a block-rocking backdrop of booming beatboxing.

THE UPTOWN MONOTONES 21:20 Didgeridoo? Yes. Balloon solos? Why not.

Beatboxing with acoustic shouty singalongs?

Naturally. If you’ve seen them, you know you will see them again, if you haven’t then, boy howdy, you’re making some bad life choices.

FEE FEE & THE SENTIMENTS 15:20 Fancy a bit of disco fun? How about a vintage party band who are both wonderfully well dressed AND well versed in how to keep a party jumping?

YEAR OF THE DOG 16:40 Having built a reputation as one of the most unforgettable dance inducing live bands on the underground circuit, this is one act you don’t want to miss.

BLUNTKNEES 18:10 London indie-rockers Bluntknees boast of no guitars and create a heavy audio experience that pushes the boundaries between trip-hop, alternative rock, electronic, psychedelic, and contemporary classical influences.

CHASING AUGUST 19:20 You want anthemic indie rock with a hint of emo big choruses? You’ve come to the right place. Chasing August are guaranteed to have one of the biggest sing-along sets of the weekend.

DJ FORMAT 20:00 His five artist albums, featuring rap heavyweights like Edan, Mr Lif, Phill Most Chill, Jurassic 5, and of course long-time collaborator, Abdominal, have been called some of the highpoints in UK hip hop.

THE SQUARE Shrewsbury

SY1 1LH

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

SHREWSBURY MORRIS 12:00 There’s nothing that says ENGLAND better than attaching little bells to your shoes and dancing in coordination while swinging big swords to folk music. The occasional shout of HEY! is a welcome addition.

ORCHESTRA OF OBJECTS 12:00 Part Dr Seuss a touch of Heath Robinson and a dollop of garden shed inspiration, the Orchestra of Objects invent their own musical instruments. Tooting, whistling, plinking and parping gizmos inspired by a wasteland of unwanted industrial objects.

Great fun for all the family.

GOT 2 SING 14:00 Think 100 trained singers all belting out contemporary classics in a forum that has played host for centuries past. How fitting!

VORSPRUNG DURCH OOMPAH 16:00 Traditional German folk tunes performed in an Oktoberfest style PLUS a whole range of brassed-up pop songs and more.

ALBERT’S SHED

8 Barker St, Shrewsbury

SY1 1QJ

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

MAD SPANNER 13.20 Anarchic, hilarious, metal-based mayhem, anyway, enough about Grandma’s funeral, Mad Spanner’s set mirrors these attributes and then some.

BLACK TAPE 13:40 Tight af musicianship and the sort of songs that make you want to grab the council leader and say “NO! Increasing car park charges is not a viable strategy if your longterm goal for the town centre is economic regeneration”.

KOTONIC 14:40 Indie rock anthems from Telfordbased trio. Have yourself a whisky and enjoy their always blistering set.

COWER, HOUNDS! 16:00 The mighty Hounds are back kicking ass with their fantastically brutal, but melodic, grunge stoner rock antics.

OSCAR MIC 17:20 The most anticipated act at LOOPFEST HQ has to be Oscar Mic. Irreverent but masterly songwriting from the gritty streets of the big smoke.

BEDROOM TAX 18:40 Bedroom Tax take you on a thoughtprovoking journey with honest lyricism and blended tones and flows – drawing inspiration from the likes ​​of Dijon, Kano, Arctic Monkeys, Whitest Boy Alive & The Streets.

BAXTER BUMSTEAD 20:00 Laid back, chill vibes, akin to Mac De Marco having a spliff with Tame Impala. Washed out soothed melodies meet fantastic musicianship.

PACKET RACKET 21:20 Ska-punk that’s tighter than Margaret Thatcher’s milk budget and more fun than you should be allowed standing up.

LUNA KISS 22:40 This Coventry-based four piece are returning to LOOPFEST, and we can’t wait to hear their new material. A band truly made for a festival audience.

FUNERALCARE 15:00 Alternative electronica with a smattering of indie pop. They create a sound that will appeal to Cults/Chrvces fans – good enough to die for? You’re in the right place if so.

SOAPER 16:20 Two-piece, grunge-indebted, punky Mathrocky, poptastic band from Lincolnshire.

A PIG CALLED EGGS 17:40 The mighty pork return to Loopfest, with their brilliant, ballsy, beefy riffs and their wonderfully batshit lyrical content.

BAUDELAIRE 19:00 Angular six-piece, who present their own post-punk with a dark synthpop undertone. Introspective lyrics flirt with bombastic musicianship that will have you longing for the days of the Hacienda.

SEPRONA 20:20 Hip-shaking Liverpudians bring an infectious sound resonating with music lovers of the likes of The Coral, The Fratellis, Blossoms and The Feeling. Certainly, one to watch!

HAiG 21:40 Fronted by ex-Catfish & the Bottlemen lead guitarist, HAiG is pure melodious, yet intricate rock, that has radio written all over it.

IMPERIAL LEISURE 23:00 An iconic band born from the vibrant UK sound system culture. Gorilla gigs, party vibes and a catalogue of certifiable hits.

ALBERT & CO FRANKVILLE 128 Frankwell, Shrewsbury

SY3 8JX

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

HOMECOMING 14:00 Pop punk from the West Midlands, tighter than a gnats bottom and with enough bouncy singalongs to keep a crowd on their feet and a song bellowed from their lungs. Some cracking Disney covers and all!

DIXIE RIOT 13:40 It’s punk Jim, but not as we know it. In fact, it’s Dixie’s own conception of ‘Cowpunk.’

Raucous, rowdy and ruddy brilliant covers.

PHWOAR 15:20 A blend of ’50s kitsch sci-fi geekiness that is as endearing as it is distinctive, the twopiece bang out some catchy af garage rock with indie and pop sensibilities THE FIENDS 16:40 The Fiends deliver a colossal wall of infectious indie rock, reminiscent of Catfish and the Bottlemen, while also adding their own spirited musical imprint…Hard-hitting, memorable vocals and fierce, screeching guitars is what makes The Fiends tick.

THE GREAT LESLIE 18:00 London-based four-piece who know how to dress well AND write a tight rhythmic banger that dances between rock’n’roll, ska and a big old-fashioned indie sing-along.

EGO FRIENDLY 19:20 Bruce Springsteen can play for three hours nonstop? That’s nothing, Ego Friendly can keep a crowd bouncing for 5 hours without a break.

ECLECTIC FENCE 20:40 Six-piece band who know how to mix classic rock bangers (check out their version of Sunshine of Your Love’ )and modern-day pop.

Some stunning harmonies and incendiary musicianship will have you down the front and hollering in no time.

GAUCHE 15:00 Love Talking Heads, Weezer and Mac De Marco? Great taste kidda. You should head on down to see Gauche.

THE BIG HELL 16:20 They call them Mr Bombastics, they don’t actually, but they should. Loud, proud and from the Wolvo crowd imagine Steve Albiniendorsed melodic shouty punk.

BOOM BOOM WOMB 17:20 Punk af riot grrrrllls grooves with an incredible stage presence. Simply awesome.

THE KID AND I 18:20 Ballsey hook-driven rock with radio-friendly melodies and a stack of well-thoughtout songs. The Kid and I are going places.

DIE TWICE 19:40 Eclectic, energetic and unique blend of rock and roll with a modern twist of inspiration from jazz.

MOTHER THUNDER 21:00 If you’re a fan of good hard rock, the kinda stuff that made 70s and 80s hair metal a global phenomenon then you will have your socks blown off by these guys.

MISS GRATITUDE 21:40 A blend of beats that you won’t find anywhere else.

AYAR 22:20 Specialising in UK jump up and heavy double drops, we can’t wait to see what he has to offer in 2024.

COLON 23:00 Shrewsbury DNB legend sees out LOOPFEST in style with a barrage of dance floor bangers.

THE ANCHOR INN

137 Frankwell, Shrewsbury

SY3 8JX

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

PERL DU 13:00 Perl Du is Kidd Raven and Bob Machin, bringing torch and twang from the borders of Wales and North Shropshire. What’s torch?

Perl Du’s definition embraces blues, jazz and more. If it tears at the heart, it’s torch.

ALAN JENKINS 16:40 Not many people manage to merge humour and pathos into their songs, but Alan isn’t like many people. A true original, one for the Robyn Hitchcock and BC Camplight fans.

JACK EVANS 14:40 Yet another incredibly talented young performer we’re excited to bring to LOOPFEST. Armed with just an acoustic guitar and a loop pedal, Jack is a charmer and effortlessly wows a crowd.

TONY STANTON 17:40 Tony has been a regular among the Shropshire scene since his fantastic band ‘Flatlands and Garages’ first appeared a decade ago. A raw, spirited set which will highlight his beautiful guitar playing as well as his soulful vocals.

THE BEAUTIFUL BARLEY BOYS 16:00 For fans of old-time country, folk and Americana. As you’d expect with a mother and son duo, the harmonies are tight and feel is just right.

DARREN POYZER 17:50 A master craftsman who has the unparalleled skill of making your heart sunny with friendly banter and a pocket full of cracking melodies.

Best served with a pina colada.

GEOFF RODGERS 17:20 Monkey hangers unite and take over with Geoff Rodgers who ignites passion and humour you can only really find in the northern provinces of this fair isle.

JOEL GARDNER 18:40 Joel has played to sold-out venues across the country, so it’s a proper privilege to have him playing LOOPFEST for free. Drawing from his roots-based influences but with an ear for modernday folk, Joel is an enthralling performer.

JAY WELLER PRITCHARD 18:40 We said last year that he is simply one of the best cover artists we have in Shropshire – made even more incredible that he is 13. This year we repeat the sentiment, but now he’s 14 so hopefully he will still be able to wow us even though his limbs will be creaking with old age.

Z.A.P 19:40 One of of Shropshire’s best cover duo’s, Zoe and Petey have been in the game so long now that I’m sure they could perform their angelic harmonies in their sleep. Always a rousing crowd act.

ASHLEY’S BAR

9 Shoplatch, Shrewsbury

SY1 1HF

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

ORBITAL SMASH 13:40 Shropshire-based Orbital Smash bring a unique spin to the alt rock scene.

TRIERS 13:40 Four-piece, melodic alternative rock band who bring to mind your favourite emo bands having a flirt with old fashioned Springsteenstyle rock’n’roll. Live, they excel in exciting rhythms and gutsy vocals.

DEAD RAZE 15:00 A duo who bring to mind a feral Seasick Steve having a fight with Joe Strummer.

Since forming in 2022, they’ve wowed plenty of European venues with their fuzzy blues. A band made for LOOPFEST. SLACKRR 16:20 If Blink 182 had a baby with Jimmy Sweet World, then the world of biology would be turned on it’s head, naturally, but if that baby then grew up and formed a band, it would be Slackrr. Bouncy bouncy joy!

MISSING FINGERS 17:40 Missing Fingers – Big, phat drums meet even bigger and phatter bittersweet riffs.

They’re sometimes indie, sometimes glam, sometimes old-fashioned rock ’n’ roll. But they’re always excellent.

HELIUM BELIEVERS 19:00 Young party band who cover modern indie classics as well as the best Gorillaz cover you will hear at the festival. Prepare to dance.

MICROBABY 20:20 Banging indie rock covers that make you want to sing until your lungs give out.

NOVA BLOOM 15:00 Wolverhampton natives Nova Bloom are certainly a hot ticket right now. Their signature anthemic choruses, dynamic instrumentation and a heavy-hitting blend of classic rock and indie pop has cemented them as ‘one to be watched’ in the UK Indie scene.

LITTLE GHOST 16:20 We’re always happy to be haunted by Little Ghost. They describe themselves as a ‘crunchy three-piece rock/alternative band’ and they’re not wrong. Angsty and riled lyrics mixed with a pumped-up stage presence makes for a riot of a live set.

HONEY, I SHOT THE PRESIDENT 17:40 Not only have they got an excellent name, HISTP also offer us gigantic choruses, thumping drums and the kind of songs that will make anyone who misses Britpop and BIG 90S INDIE CHOONS smile and spill Stella on their Fred Perry.

RADIO RUMOURS 19:00 Electrifying covers of rock and pop classics, irresistibly dancible.

BULL INN BUTCHER ROW 7 Butcher Row, Shrewsbury

SY1 1UW

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

LOTUS MOTION 13:00 Watching these guys you’ll be convinced that the history books got it wrong and it was Shrewsbury and not Seattle that created the grunge scene. Raw vocals and dirty riffs for the masses.

EMPIRE OF LIGHTS 13:40 From the depths of Wales, the psychedelic rock and funk space monster Empire of Lights invites you on a mind-bending trip accompanied by soaring guitars, poetic lyricism and a dog/dragon called Falcore.

MR BLACK 14:20 We love an old school rock’n’roll trio, keep it simple, keep it loud and keep the punters happy. Mr Black know this well, and are a phenomenally tight rock/pop covers band that can bewitch an audience.

CIVIC GREEN 15:00 Anthemic indie-rock from the pit town of Barnsley; sing-along choruses for days that are usually found in stadiums. I heard you asking ‘AH MUCH!’ Well actually LOOPFEST is free.

RED BY NIGHT 15:40 We still can’t get over the fact that they’re still at school, and we still can’t get over the fact that regardless of their age, they’re simply an awesome band.

THE GOAT SHOW 17:00 A five-piece covers band that create endless good vibes with their undeniable charm and tremendous musicianship. Guaranteed to keep you smiling and your feet dancing.

THE ALMIGHTY JOHNSONS 18:20 Shropshire based five-some The Almighty Johnsons will be bringing all the hits.

THE RONALDOS 16:20 If you’re from the Shire, you’ll know these guys. Playing a wide range of styles, The Ronaldos are the band formed

by T’Pau songwriter Ronnie Rogers.

ROWAN LAWSON BAND 17:40 Rowan writes gorgeous songs that combine blues, country, murder ballads and folk. He has been one of our favourite performers for some time and the scary thing is he keeps getting better and better.

And guess what? He has a band too, with added harmonies and beautiful backing musicians with harmonica, bass, guitar and drums – always a scintillating set.

CUPS COFFEE

16 Castle St, Shrewsbury

SY1 2BB

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

SOPHIA LEWIS SCRIBBLER 13:00 Join poet Sofia Lewis; hear her thoughts on life in Britain, emotions, love and politics.

Sofia is a playwright and poet. She is also known as a folk singer so all kind of words will abound.

DAWN POWELL CHILDREN’S STORYTELLER 13:20 A second helping from master storyteller Dawn Powell who has a special Greek mythic story about the world’s first robot.

DAWN POWELL CHILDREN’S STORYTELLER 14:20 Dawn is a master storyteller, and has a special Greek mythic story about the world’s first robot. One not to miss!

SCOOB 15:40 Stewart Wellings aka SCOOB will bring his own unique style of storytelling and poetry recitations to the table.

ANNA VON CRAYON 14:40 Anna is one of the finest poets in the Midlands, combining her love of literature with her adored hip-hop, she has a style that is truly her own with beautiful ruminations on love, lyrics and the human spirit.

CROMWELLS TAP HOUSE 11 Dogpole, Shrewsbury

SY1 1EN

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

JESS PAYNE 13:40 A riotous, spellbinding performer whose raw, guttural songs hide a caustic, wicked lyrical tongue.

THE DAISYCHAIN 13:00 Beautiful male/female harmonies with some exquisitely written songs.

FEMI PRECIOUS 15:00 Femi is known for his “deep roots blues” and has been crafting his guitar-picking style for two decades.

TU-KAY & RYAN 16:20 Roots, Americana and folk all come to play with the captivating harmonies of Tu-Kay and Ryan.

JESSIE DESAI 17:40 Jess writes the sort of songs that will appeal to all the Joni Mitchell and 70s LA band fans.

LYDIA ROWLANDS 19:00 Raw and open delivery with a stripped-back live performance that can both haunt and heal.

BARRY WILLIAMS 14:20 Barry plays his own beautifully crafted original songs with wistful storytelling.

CLAY ALLEN 15:40 Though still a whipper-snapper, Clay is a charming and confident performer.

JOSH CARTER 17:00 Wolves-based Josh writes songs as a form of catharsis, capturing life, death, emotions, and personal events in his music.

SAM DRAISEY 18:20 Hard-hitting political songwriter Sam Draisey has been around the scene for many a year, and here’s why: he’s bloody good.

GRIFF 19:40 Wolves-based acoustic singer who can create spell-binding originals as well as a well-chosen bombastic cover or two.

HOUSE OF GRAIN 59A Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury

SY1 1XJ

SATURDAY 4TH MAY DISCOTECH 13:00 Funky, house shenanigans from a DJ collective whose sole (indeed soul) goal is to keep your feet moving.

SUNDAY 5TH MAY SOUNDS TO CONSUME 14:00 Oli has been doing his Sounds to Consume for years, and as such he knows how to make

a dance floor work. Big beats, big singalongs, no guff. Simple.

DEEJAY WHITTY 17:00 Aka Mr. Happy Bap has been at the forefront of the Shropshire free party scene since he was a nipper. All good time vibes, all the time.

SÖLACÈ 19:20 Performing at LOOPFEST 2024 with a set of deep house and electronica that fosters a sense of unity and transcendence on the dancefloor.

IN GOOD HANDS

Frankwell, Shrewsbury

SY3 8JU

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

KIM HARRIS 12:40 Kim Harris, drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Joni Mitchell and Regina Spektor, brings a sensitivity reminiscent of a longforgotten letter from a mother to her son, echoing a bygone era.

HANNAH & BRYAN 13:20 Stalwarts of the Shropshire music scene, Hannah & Bryan will wow you with a captivating performance that will make you realise paying a visit to In Good Hands Café was a great idea!

KIDD RAVEN 14:00 Listening to Kidd is like having your own personal soundtrack in a cosy pub, settled with a whisky by a warm fireplace. Wholesome vibes with a bewitching performer.

AMBER JULES 14:40 Hailing from Manchester, Amber is a songwriter of incredible promise. A soulful but sweet voice, acoustically plucked melodies, and some electrobeats create a distinctive and alluring sound.

BLIX 15:20 Blix (otherwise known as Dunc Burns) has drummed for fellow LOOPFEST performers Fight the Bear and Packet Racket. Blix, however, is a different beast, loft laptop vibes with acoustic shimmers creating some astounding music.

DAVID BRINKWORTH & THE PIT 16:00 Arty, nightmarish and a jolly good chap to enjoy a pot of tea with, Dave Brinkworth reminds us of how Victorian music halls captivated the British public.

KATE ROSE RAINFORD 16:40 Marrying folk-based melodies with acoustic rock, Katie always leaves an audience captivated and in awe of her fantastic voice.

VINCENT WHYTE 17:20 2024 has seen him release ’Terrapin Singtank’ and if any album title can do Vincent justice, it’s that. Unique, off-kilter, but truly brilliant original singer-songwriter from Shrewsbury.

NIKKI ROUS 18:00 A bewildering and spectacular performer and writer of beautiful, heart-strung songs. Nikki never fails to enchant any audience lucky enough to be with her.

BAXTER BUMSTEAD SOLO 18:40 Laid back, chill vibes, akin to Mac De Marco having a spliff with Tame Impala. Washed out soothed melodies meet fantastic musicianship.

THE FOUNDERS 19:20 Yet another local Shrewsbury band who have an impressive array of fantastic punchy indie originals, as well as a fantastic selection of modern-day and classic covers. This threepiece will have you swinging till the early hours.

THE VAULTS

16 Castle Gates, Shrewsbury

SY1 2AB

SATURDAY 4TH MAY MATT MINOR + DARKFADA 13:00 Expect a mix of garage and hourse, blended beautifully to make a cocktail of musical joy.

Tasty.

BAKRA BEATS 15:20 Heavy grooves a plenty with Bakra Beats playing the best in Boss Reggae, Soul and Ska music.

DJ NUTZO 17:40 A man of many talents, DJ Nutzo has circumnavigated the globe, lived 1000 lives and pulsates good vibes. Genre-bending playfulness with a penchant for bass-led synth dirt and uplifting beats.

FRESHWEST 20:00 Truly is a fresh talent, new to the local DJ scene but already making a name for himself in Brum and also the mighty Ministry of Sound itself. Disco/ French/ Detroit House extraordinaire who’s guaranteed to keep the vibes dirty and nice.

SUNDAY 5TH MAY STACKS OF WAX X NATURAL SELECTIONS 14:00 DJs, diggers and aficionados of all things vinyl, featuring some of the stalwarts of the Shropshire late-night circuit. These guys were cutting the groove waaaay before it was cool.

OIL 31 Castle Gates, Shrewsbury

SY1 2BQ

SATURDAY 4TH MAY SONNY WOODS, KEZZA & GUESTS 14:00 Sonny has been at the heart of the underground dance music scene since the early Hip Hop days of 1983. He is the man responsible for putting on Shrewsbury’s very first rave & club events back in ’89-93 & was Shropshire’s very first actual ‘Mixing DJ’.

Joining Sonny will be Kezza & Guests playing upbeat and groovy selections.

MEZZOTONIC 22:00 We love the funk. Gotta have that funk. No worries baby, Mezzo have just the tonic you need if you’re looking for big bass and disco beats. Groovy baby.

SHREWSBURY UNITARIAN CHURCH 37-38 High St, Shrewsbury

SY1 1LR

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

SI ALTON 15:00 Si has been on the Shropshire scene for some years now and never fails to please. If you love a bit of an indie-based singalong, mixed with some stunningly crafted originals, then you’ve come to the right chap.

JENNY LA FEMME GUITARE 13:20 Folky songstress who brings together a wealth of worldly knowledge, delivered with an empathetic hymn.

ESME JOHNSON 16:20 Like a summer’s day and your favourite cocktail coming together in the form of a glorious indie-pop sound.

AARON W EVANS 17:40 Acoustic troubadour and then some. Aaron is a singular talent who has wowed countless venues within Shropshire and the Midlands.

One of the finest voices the county has to offer.

ROWAN LAWSON 19:00 Rowan writes gorgeous songs that combine blues, country, murder ballads and folk. He has been one of our favourite performers for some time and the scary thing is he keeps getting better and better.

QUANTUM PENGUIN 14:40 Not many artists know how to play the bouzouki, tbh not many musicians know what one is. However, QP does, and he employs it with his expert guitar and violin tones to create a truly original folk sound.

ELLIE GALVIN 16:00 Ellie has been writing her own material for herself, and others for the past decade. Live she can enrapture a crowd with her own soothing but raw originals as well as performing a cover with her own alt folky stylings. A gem of an artist.

TAMMY WILDE 17:20 Manchester has a habit of producing ace singer-songwriters doesn’t it? Tammy is one of those, with an eye for poetic lyrics and an ear for sun-drenched melodies. A hypnotic performer.

THE GODDESS OF SOUND 18:40 Shrewsbury-based singer who is one of those rare gems, who feel like they’re singing specifically to you when they’re playing. Intimate, soulful, joyful and always unapologetically her true self, an enthralling artist.

THE OL’CHEMIST

4-5 Market St, Shrewsbury

SY1 1LE

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

DAVE BUSBY 13:20 Telford-based, acoustic, loop pedal adorned performer who can perform an Ed Sheeran/ Blackstreet medley better than anyone in the Midlands.

WILD WALKERS 13:20 Kate Rose is one of the area’s most wellknown performers who’s seen frequenting live music haunts almost every night of the week. Passionate, distinct and soul-fulfilling.

ROBBIE JONES 14:40 We all love Robbie Jones, he’s a cheeky scamp with a penchant for telling classic britpop tales from the likes of Oasis and The Verve, as well as being a very talented songwriter in his own right.

JOEL GARDNER 14:40 Joel has played to sold-out venues across the country, so it’s a proper privilege to have him playing LOOPFEST for free. Drawing from his roots-based influences but with an ear for modernday folk, Joel is an enthralling performer.

MACY O 16:00 Another bright, young emerging artist from Shropshire. Macy has already written and released a fantastic debut album, songs she will be performing from at LOOPFEST as well as some beautifully chosen covers.

NATIONAL MILK BAR 17:20 80s-influenced, shimmering keyboard riffs and electro drums bring to mind The Human League produced by Erasure. Get the lycra out and let’s pretend the 90s never happened.

THE SHIRE-ISH ROVERS 18:40 Fancy a bit of an old-fashioned Irish stompy sing-along? You’d do far worse than the Rovers who also mix Americana into the mix with their duo of mandolin/guitar twangs.

Grab us a Guinness would ya?.

THOM MORECROFT 16:00 BBC Radio 6 Music playlisted and described by ex-editor of NME, Q, Mojo and Word Paul Du Noyer as “cheering and addictive”, Thom Morecroft is a singer-songwriter from Shrewsbury based in Liverpool.

SHARMAINE WEBSTER 17:20 Straight outta Northampton, Sharmaine is a powerhouse vocalist that will blow your mind.

TRADEMARK BLUD 18:40 Hip hop royalty returns to Loopfest.

Trademark is simply a remarkable lyricist, capable of wowing with brutal introspection as well as spitting bars about societal ills.

Never without a crispy beat as well. Incredible artist.

THE OLD POST OFFICE 1 Milk St, Shrewsbury

SY1 1SZ

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

KING’S ALIAS 14:00 These three lads make a big noise that is both soulful and riotous – reminiscent of Sublime and Rancid, but uniquely King’s Alias.

PROVENANCE 14:20 Indiepoppers Provenance hail from Teesside, so most probably they’re smoggies. Who can hold that against them when their tunes are chock full of massive choruses and tunes that lodge in your ear worm? Chicken Parmo, anyone?

REVOLUTION 15:20 One of Shropshire’s finest cover bands, if you’ve been in a pub dancing along to a trio of kick-ass musicians who are compelling you to drink and dance more (succeeding in the process) – then it’s more than likely this brilliant act.

WAX FUTURES 16:40 Who can forget when they did a double set at The York at the first Loop? What ruddy heroes.

What’s their sound? Ferocious petal. But melodic. Live, they’re just a swirling beast of cavernous drums and distorted riffs. Lovely.

SECRET ELEPHANT 18:00 Telford-based loud-mouth hooligans who bring 70s rock n roll to the modern era.

Bruising riffs, bellowing bass, and shoutalong vocals. The band most likely to make you want to wear double denim.

UNTAMED SHREWS 19:20 All female four-piece who have been one of LOOPFEST’s biggest supporters, as such we always support their raucous, raw, rock’n’roll energy and incredible cover choice.

EUREKAS 15:40 Riding high on the wave of Newport indie heavyweight songwriters Dan Burridge & Jack Perrett, The Eurekas are fast becoming one to watch on the national scene.

COLLIDER SKIES 17:00 A melodic and galloping indie quartet from the Midlands, the Skies make boisterous, loud, life-affirming music that sounds like it was made to soundtrack the summer of first loves and hangovers.

THE WHIPJACKS 18:20 Pounding drums, driving bass and screeching guitar flit hand in hand with melodic mandolin, partial nudity and attitude-filled lyrics. This Worcester wonder band will have you happy clapping along like the GUI clinic on Monday morning.

THE BATTERY FARM 19:40 A gutter punk four-piece from Manchester playing visceral, punishing rock music infused with pain and passion. A guttural cry against a violent world, whose songs are borne of that violence. Part

THE YORKSHIRE HOUSE

2 St Mary’s Pl, Shrewsbury

SY1 1DX

SATURDAY 4TH MAY WHYSPIDERS 13:00 Innovative, spiky, bruising grunge rock that sounds like a band trying their darnedest to soundtrack a Quentin Tarantino horror film.

They’re as awesome as that sounds.

DRAVE 14:20 Goth. Funny old business innit? Drinking extra strong cider in graveyards and discussing the finer works of Edgar Allen Poe. I mean, sure sounds fun, but not as fun as seeing Drave who are a deliciously, dark, gothy post-punk proposition with choons to die for. Get your eyeliner and docs on, we’re going dancing.

THE MANHATTANS 15:40 Shropshire’s own Manhattans are a party bang who cover everything from modern hits to 60’s R’n’B. Glittery and groovy.

BLUE THEORY 17:00 The Black Country must be due the accolade of being called the capital of Rock, and Blue Theory are flying the flag for that moniker.

Expect big riffs and soaring vocals.

HOUSE OF WOLVES 18:20 House of Wolves are a pack of super talented musicians that drive through indieguitarrock with the rawness of our early 90s heroes.

MERE AMORE 19:40 Raw, punk indebetted riot grrrrrrrlll rock n roll. Mere Amore have a vital sound and energy that will have you quaking in your Converse. Expect big things.

WHEATSHEAF

50 High St, Shrewsbury

SY1 1ST

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

SAM RYAN 14:00 Sam knows how to get an audience onside with his own brand of ’Sad Boi’ indie gems and creating his own unique modern covers.

Always an impressive performer.

GEOFFREY HIGGS 13:00 Indie pop rocker Geoffrey is know around the local circuit for his upbeat and energetic performances.

GAFFATTACK 15:20 It’s the Gaffattack! More groove than he knows what to do with, Sean Gaffney is one man music making machine, that is as captivating as he his humble.

DAN EDWARDS 16:40 The shining light that came from the now missed Penny Famous. Dan is a master songsmith in his own right and is a captivating watch for any music aficionado.

SAMUEL COOPER 18:00 If you’ve seen Sam play at one of the open mics around Shropshire, you know you’re in for a truly original treat. Sam is an astonishing guitarist who happens to write heartfelt, witty and brilliant lyrics. One to watch.

FRAN LUSTY 19:20 Cambridge with Norwegian roots. Fran will rock you gently with soul-stirring nature-inspired songs. Her music has been described as “dreamful’ and “truly transformative”, inspired by Damien Rice and Virginia Woolf’s storytelling.

DAVE BRIGGS 14:00 Dave is equally at home with an acoustic guitar as he is with his trademark harmonica, and writes and performs brilliantly observant witty songs across the Shropshire hills. We can’t wait to see him again.

BLUEBYRD 15:20 Alternative folk-pop with an urban twist from the concrete streets of Wolverhampton.

DARREN POYZER 16:20 A master craftsman who has the unparalleled skill of making your heart sunny with friendly banter and a pocket full of cracking melodies.

Best served with a pina colada.

ADAM & BECKY 17:20 Adam and Becky were a dual vocalists from one of our favourites The Barebacks who are sadly no more, so come check their awesome!

GRANT SHARKEY 18:20 He’s a busy boy our Grant, if he’s not touring the country and wowing all with his hilarious sing-along anthems about yachts and Weatherspoons, then he’s writing and performing musicals about Glastonbury. One to say ‘Yep, I was there.’

BOUZATINA 19:20 Bishop’s Castle-based duo who combine their love of ancestral balladry and traditional Irish music into something that reminds you of your favourite 70’s singer/songwriters.

Harmonies and melodies to warm the cockles of your heart.

FRANCESCA 20:20 Fun, upbeat and guaranteed to get everyone singing along, Telford’s Francesca can’t miss a beat.

WHEATSHEAF FRANKWELL 19 Frankwell, Shrewsbury

SY3 8JY

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

THE SMALL FURRY ANIMALS 13:00 They’re young, fun and are playing at LOOPFEST for the first time. Whitchurch’s The Small Furry Animals might be young, but this troop of party animals will bring the house down.

URBAN THEORY 14:20 Manchester-based indie/post-punk band who’s causing quite a stir as of late. Recently voted record of the month by Manchester’s Mayor Andy Burnham. Andy has to be onto something here like.

DON’T CALL ME ISHMAEL 14:20 Folky indie vibes from this Midlandsbased outfit who have released some absolute stormers in 2023.

Quiet stormers, but stormers nonetheless. Live, they’re a sweet melodic galloping joy.

CASTLECOMBE DRIVE 15:40 London-based folk/rock group from a mixture of Ireland and England, wearing their hearts on their sleeves and bringing you the finest of anthemic indie folk tunes out there.

BACK TO THE BORDER 15:40 Back to the Border will take you back to the bluesy, rock’n’roll sounds of the ’70s. They’re tight and loose in all the right places and know how to create a classic solo or two.

Kerrang!

PROJECT NEVADA 17:00 Project Nevada is a five-piece indie synthrock band hailing from Liverpool, drawing inspiration from indie, new wave, and electronica. Their catchy hooks, driving beats, and danceable rhythms make for an infectious and energetic live experience.

LF 17:00 Those handsome bastards return to LOOPFEST to wow us with their punky indie poppy happy shopper vibes. Yes, I said vibes.

Don’t judge. You’ll get it if you’re lucky enough to see ‘em. Original gangsters of Shropshire.

WEEKEND DAD 18:20 From the ashes of ‘Bad Fiancès’ David Molby returns with an altogether rockier/ indier/punkier sound. With musicians from Gauche, Missing Fingers and Good To Go, this will be their debut gig.

STONE MILE 18:20 Emerging from the vibrant Manchester music scene, Stone Mile is an indie pop five-piece band forging a distinct path through the soundscape.

THE FRIENDLY CAMPAIGN 19:40 Pure melodic pop, indie music with a great 60’s vibe intertwined, lots of twists and turns, fresh, punchy and all original song writing by the founder member Gary Jewess.

ETERNITY ROAD 19:40 A dynamic covers band that breathes new life into classic rock and pop anthems featuring a repertoire spanning the golden decades of music, they skillfully blend timeless hits with an energetic modern twist.

FIVE O’CLOCK HERO 21:00 Powerhouse four playing the best of ’60s mod including The Who, Kinks and Small Faces and also the best of The Jam, Specials, Weller, The Circles, Lambrettas, Secret Affair and many others.

MEME DETROIT 21:00 Rock’n’roll wizardry that combines oldfashioned 70’s glam with modern-day inspired lyrics and an on-stage presence that brings to mind Bowie having a fight with Joan Jett. Calm down, David!

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