Here we are then, the 18th year of your favourite showcase of local musical talent. It is hard to believe that this venture, conceived over more than a few drinks at The Victoria back in 2007, is still going.
In fact, this event is doing more than that, it is thriving and growing – 2024 is shaping up to be the biggest year ever, with more acts and more venues involved and encompassing a broader range of music than perhaps we have ever done before.
This year, we add to the urban music selection we have introduced over the last few years a new Saturday session at the Hop. The venue will host some amazing acts from those with hip hop and grime influences to full on electronic dance music floor fillers. We have also added even more DJs to the mix, which has also involved two new venues for us – the Little Hop for a bring your own vinyl night and Pick-Up Point, who will be hosting a special Baila Coffee & Vinyl throwback after-party.
Speaking of throwbacks, whilst we are always excited to be
introducing brand new acts to you (and have some belters this year) we are also very happy to be continuing the long held Shuffle tradition of bringing back acts who have been off the scene for quite some time. Check the line up to see some old favourites you may well have been missing. Possibly the most exciting new aspect to this years event takes place the Tuesday before the main programme kicks off, as the Central Library host an incredible exhibition of Swindon’s musical heritage. Having had a sneak preview we can honestly say do not miss it. As well as being a wonderful nostalgia trip, it will also open your eyes to the
Shuffle with style
We have four different T-shirts available so you can celebrate this year’s Shuffle in style. The funky colours include sky blue, navy, orange and a special edition picture T. They are available now with prices ranging from £11 to £20. See website www.swindonshuffle.org.uk for details including the ordering process.
national significance of Swindon’s music scene of the past, and leave you with questions about what has happened to it.
We have had some amazing support for this year from UKRI and cannot thank them enough for helping us to invest in the musical future of Swindon. As we build towards celebrating our 20th year in 2026 and continue to grow the event we hope to translate this backing into something of even greater significance for the cultural landscape of the town. But in the meantime, check out and enjoy some of the amazing talent we already have!
Ed Dyer
We’re Shufflin’ for Prospect Hospice
During the Swindon Shuffle this year we will be fundraising for Prospect Hospice.
So if you see us shaking the bucket please give generously as it is such a worthy cause.
On Saturday 14 September, the Prospect Hospice Books and Media Shop on Commercial Road will also be hosting live acts from midday until 4pm.
Since 1980, Prospect Hospice has provided the only dedicated end-of-life care service for people living across north east Wiltshire including Swindon, Marlborough and Royal Wootton Bassett.
Jeremy Lune, chief executive at Prospect Hospice, said: ““At Prospect Hospice, people and community are at the core of everything we do. We provide palliative and end-of-life care to over 2,000 people in Swindon and north-east Wiltshire every year. Despite decreasing NHS funding, we continue our vital work thanks to the unwavering support of our community.
“Though discussing death and dying can be uncomfortable, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves, perhaps after a drink with friends and family, talking about what our funeral song might be. This highlights the power of music to convey emotions and bring us together. Swindon Shuffle embodies this spirit – a genuine celebration of life in our wonderful community. We are incredibly grateful
The Ink Community Talk with Prospect Hospice
7.30pm - Monday 9 September @ The Hop Inn, Devizes Rd - free entry Swindon’s very own news subscription service The Ink is hosting a community talk as part of The Swindon Shuffle.
The talk by Jeremy Lune, chief executive at Prospect Hospice, will be entitIed ‘Don’t mention the D-words’.
This fits in with Prospect’s vision of ‘A community where death is no longer a taboo and everyone lives and dies well’.
The talk will be about misconceptions around Prospect Hospice, which will include:
- Services are not just about beds (in fact only 10% of patients are cared for in that way
- It is not a sad / gloomy place, it is a celebration of life
- Prospect is not part of / fully funded by the NHS in spite of an ever increasing need
Jeremy Lune, Chief Executive of Prospect Hospice
H E V E N U E S
THE TUPPENNY
Opening in late 2016 The Tuppenny on Devizes Road quickly became one of the best independent bars in Swindon, with a large range of craft beer, craft spirits, cocktails and wine. It has a unique and cosy feel with its own quirky decor, up-cycled furniture and even a bar top made from two pence coins! The Tuppenny is also a big supporter of original music putting on stripped back bands and singer-songwriters.
THE HOP INN
Hugely popular pub The Hop is making a name for itself on the music circuit hosting gigs on a regular basis and is also known for its immensely popular comedy night. The venue offers a pretty huge selection of rotating craft beers and lagers, so everyone’s a winner! This year its sister pub The Little Hop a few doors down will be hosting its own Shuffle Fringe event with a bring your own vinyl night on the Saturday evening.
THE VICTORIA
The Vic has been at the centre of the Swindon live music scene since the late 90s and been involved in the Shuffle since its inception. The size of the Victoria Road venue, stage and PA system mean this is definitely a place to check out some of the bigger and louder acts playing at this year’s festival.
THE BEEHIVE
Tucked away behind Regents Circus in Prospect Place The Beehive is Swindon’s best kept secret. As one of the oldest pubs in Swindon it has a unique character all of its own, with its twisting, four level layout. The pub has always been a supporter of the arts whether that’s local, national, and international music acts to poetry nights, art exhibitions, and more.
THE CASTLE
SWINDON CENTRAL LIBRARY
Dominating Regent Circus, Swindon Central Library is central to Swindon community life. With its cosy, friendly and warm atmosphere, this is the perfect place to curl up with a book. It is also the home of the Swindon Local Studies group who will be hosting an evening of live music and DJS from 6.30pm to 10pm on Tuesday 10 September as well as giving tours of the extensive Swindon music heritage collection held at the library.
PICK UP POINT
Hosted by renowned chef Josh West, Pick Up Point in Devizes Road has been praised as the best eaterie in Swindon (The Ink March 2024) with its creative and very very delicious burgers and sides. The funky, grungey restaurant will be hosting an exclusive after-Shuffle DJ Night with DJ Baila on the Saturday night.
THE ETERNAL OPTIMIST
This ultra trendy Old Town hideout can be found above Los Gatos on Devizes Road. With fine spirits, craft beers, cocktails and wines, this is the perfect place to hang whilst rubbing shoulders with the hip of Old Town. Comfy sofas and good vibes are what it’s all about at The Optimist.
PROSPECT SHOP
Prospect Hospice’s Commercial Road shop specialises in Books, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, musical instruments and audio equipment. The perfect place to catch some afternoon live music sets on the Shuffle’s Super Saturday.
BARISTOCATS
A paradise for cafe culture aficionados, this slice of coffee heaven found on Commercial Road, will be an essential must-go on the Saturday of The Shuffle with a host of acts performing there for your delectation. There will definitely be a buzz and not all from the exceedingly good coffee.
T H E V E N U E S
EASTCOTT COMMUNITY CENTRE
The Shuffle Community Ceilidh with Cowshed Ceilidh Collective will be taking place at the community venue from 7pm to 10pm on the Saturday. Found on Savernake Street, it can trace
SEPT 12
TH U R S D
THE TUPPENNY
9.45pm - B-Sydes
Modern and authentic punk-tinged, folkinfused acoustica delivered with power, personality, and purpose. Ben Sydes (yes, it’s not just a clever stage name) has been capturing the hearts and minds of audiences since his first EPs and critically acclaimed albums. Having shared the stage with Frank Turner, Gaz Brookfield, Ferocious Dog, Beans On Toast, Nick Parker, Crazy Arm, and countless others, he’s honed his craft and found his authentic voice.
9pm - The Pagan
Fringe (Trio)
8.15pm
- Thieves
Originally a much loved folk rock band dubbed the ‘Wiltshire Waterboys’ in the late 80s/early 90s, now a refreshed incarnation of the Fringe have returned with an alt-folkAmericana-country-indie fusion of sound and an impending album of new songs.
7.30pm
- Emma Doupé
Emma is a powerhouse vocalist who has been making waves in the Swindon Music Scene with her original musical styling for several years.
Thieves are a captivating acoustic ensemble that weaves together a tapestry of Country, Americana, and Blues music. With a passion for storytelling and a love for intricate harmonies, Thieves deliver an unforgettable musical experience that resonates with audiences. Drawing inspiration from traditional roots music and contemporary influences, Thieves breathe new life into classic covers while crafting original compositions that speak to the heart and soul.
10.15pm
THE HOP
- Subject A
When is a ska band, not a ska band? When it is Subject A, a musical collective that takes the whole reggae-roots sound to another dimension. Some of their songs are built from gorgeous tumbles of reggae grooves and gentle, lilting rhythms, but even then, they are draped in a sonic veil that softens and restrains the music. At the other end of their spectrum are songs forged from ambient sounds, haunting, gossamer-like, and almost celestial vibes. The next chapter in the story of ska? Yes, indeed.
9.30pm
- Atari Pilot
Atari Pilot has always been brilliant at crossing generic divides. They write pop songs using rock building blocks or dance tunes by gathering pop tones and textures around them or indie songs via digital drives. Music truly made somewhere between pop and a hard place. It’s that ability to be so hard to define, so genre-hopping, to be neither one thing nor another that makes them so appealing. Perhaps, all things to all people. Or at least enough things to enough people. After all, you can’t always please everyone, but Atari Pilot comes closer than most.
8.45pm
- Wild Isles
8pm - In-Flight Movie
Seemingly named after those central shelves in Aldi where you can find woks and workboots, bird food and leafblowers sitting cheek-by-jowl... possibly...Wild Isles is the South West’s newest indie-rock outfit. Not just the newest but the most infectious and incendiary band. Expect riffs the size of a house, grooves that insist you dance, and more hooks than a Peter Pan convention.
7.15pm
- Abstraction Engine
Abstraction Engine takes cues from the cream of the 80s and 90s alternative guitar scene, bridging the tightrope between indie guitar textures and outright pop bangers. Their music mixes memorable melodies,
Those old enough to remember when synthpop and punk bands were natural enemies will love InFlight Movie. It’s not just great music but almost a long overdue generic healing process. Oldschool synths, raucous guitars, furious drums, and anthemic vocals combine to make music reminiscent of New Order or LCD Soundsystem and references Vangelisian soundtracks.
T H U R S D A Y
SEPT 13
THE HOP INN
SWINDON FOLK CLUB CURATED EVE
Doors 7.45 pm for 8pm startEvent will include open floor spots and a raffle
10pm - Blackthorn Buskers
R I D A Y
More than a few bands consider themselves folk bands because they wield an acoustic guitar. Is that folk music? Perhaps, but if you want to experience what folk is really about, folk that leans heavily into some timeless traditions, you need a bit of Blackthorn Buskers. Whipping up a sonic storm not just from the aforementioned acoustic but with mandolins, accordion, bodhran, and bass akimbo, then layer that with five-part harmonies, too. Folk music as God intended. (And by God, I, of course, mean Richard Thompson.)
8.55pm - Sloe Jam
Sloe Jam (appearing as a duo for the Shuffle) are in the great and thriving tradition of memorable tunes, thoughtful and beautifully created lyrics, and acoustic music without boundaries.
8.10pm -
Little Known
Strings Band
New to the local folk circuit but formed of familiar faces Cassandra Jane and Linda Lee, Little Known Strings have a tendency towards
THE VICTORIA
10.45pm - Chasing
Dolls
Easily one of my favourite new bands of recent times, Chasing Dolls combines high-intensity, dark and delirious music with socially conscious and thought-provoking lyricism. The live show is an incendiary experience, salvo after salvo of music that makes you feel, think, and dance. Intelligent rock music is back with a vengeance.
10pm
- Viduals
SEPT 13
9.15pm
- I SEE ORANGE
Alt-rock with a pop heart? Maybe. Pop songs with plenty of muscle? Perhaps. The soundtrack to a great night out? Most definitely. Viduals tale the power and poignancy of alternative rock and then bend those threads into more pop-aware forms. The result is the best of both worlds, accessible and infectious songs built with authenticity and integrity, rock music without the additional baggage and cliche. Why has no one thought of this before?
8.30pm
- OOJAH
If you can imagine a pathway where the grunge sound took a slightly different path and meandered enough to take in more than a few indie moves and some infectious pop grooves, then you can imagine what I See Orange sound like. They are big, brash, and bombastic, but they are also deft, delicate and delicious, not to mention energetic and infectious. What more could you ask for?
Big, bold and bombastic three-piece indie outfit that obviously take the term power-trio very seriously. Built round the vocal and guitar work of Joshua Heather, their funked-up blend of catchy riffs, punchy bass lines and rumbling percussion is both classic in origin but bang up to date in delivery.
7.45pm -
Nostromo
It speaks volumes about a band’s smarts that they would name themselves after, arguably, Joseph Conrad’s greatest novel (or possibly the most famous deep space commercial towing vessel in movie history). But what says more about this infectious indie band is
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R I D A Y
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THE CASTLE
9.30pm
- THUD
10.15pm - Matt Owens and the Delusional Vanity Project
First coming to prominence with indie-folksters Noah and the Whale, Matt has since been a much sought-after writer and session player. But since the release of his debut solo album, Whiskey and Orchids, he has been concentrating on a solo path. These days erring more towards a folky-Americana sound, his latest release Way Out West, sees him continue to work with his ace backing band The Delusional Vanity Project and embrace a slightly more upbeat, rock-infused sound.
Blues for the modern age. THUD brings together some of the finest musicians around to create the next chapter of blues-infused music. Throw in some folk and funk, a fun and furious stage show, plenty of wit and a dash of wisdom, scintillating solos and infectious rhythms, and you might have the best gig experience of your life.
8pm
8.45pm
- Black Hats
It is a long awaited but welcome return for Black Hats, a band constructed round solid grooves from a rhythm section built on deft reggae-infused bass lines and skittering beats, and razor wire guitars with an anxious, new wave energy and sharp and a melodic punk edge that also served the likes of The Jam so well.
- The Sitting Tenants
Calling on the sort of paisley-patterned power pop that served bands like The Kinks so well and which went on to influence everyone from The GoBetweens to our very own XTC, The Sitting Tenants make the sort of music that has you singing along by the time the chorus comes round for the second time. These are not only great songs but also songs with a message that everyone can relate to in these difficult times. Music with a heart and soul! Just what we need right now.
7.15pm
- Hooch
Hooch is a band in transition. Although known as one of the premier
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5.45pm
THE TUPPENNY
6.30pm
- Sayers
You have to admire a band that openly and enthusiastically declares that they aim to create thought-provoking, ecologically-conscious music using every musical tool they have. But it is precisely what the world needs: music with a head, heart, and, more importantly, soul. Thunderous 8-string guitar riffs give way to classical piano études; funky grooves sit below silky harmonies, and it all comes together as a vehicle for a social change singalong. Now that sounds like a party worth going to, don’t you think?
- Phil King
As a singer-songwriter, Phil King has it all: A beautiful soulful singing voice, deft skills at playing the guitar, and the capacity to write elegantly worded and powerful songs. One for lovers of the darker side of folk and roots music.
5pm - David Corrigan
These days, David is a reasonably reclusive singer/songwriter who has been most recently found fronting local biscuit-loving troubadours, The Astral Ponies. Armed with a faithful, if slightly battered, acoustic guitar, you can expect stripped-down versions of some Pony classics, the usual country-tinged laments, and dusty old folk. Rumours abound that he might even throw in some new material.
4.15pm
- Jol Rose
Depending on his mood, you might encounter a serious, Americana-infused troubadour or an upbeat, singalong cheerleader, but whichever sonic persona you get, you are in for a treat. You may get a bit of both. Come for the discerning dustbowl diatribes; stay for the danceable ditties. It’s all good.
2.45pm
- Sienna Wileman
Having released her debut song two years ago, at only fourteen (she started writing songs at age ten), Sienna is obviously at the start of a long and interesting musical trajectory. But
3.30pm
- M3G
Folk music, like all genres, has to move with the times, despite what the folk police would have you believe. M3G is the sound of that process in action. Taking a core of acoustic folk traditions, she cocoons this timeless sound with all manner of tones and textures to bring things bang up to date. She adds her captivating, ethereal vocals to create a sound that walks a fine line between folk grace, indie cool and dream-pop poise.
2pm
- Tildy
Once again Tildy is the youngest player on the bill this year, but this time coming to us from playing all over the country with her piano and guitar and a new set of
THE VICTORIA
10.45pm - NervEndings
SEPT 14
Drawing on the rich traditions of decades of homegrown alt-rock, NervEndings has distilled all the best bits into a sound that is nothing short of anthemic and euphoric, incendiary and energetic. They take the blues traditions that all rock and roll is based on and turn it into something...well, huge. But not just huge; with songs such as Democracy Manifesto, they are setting new benchmarks for alternative music of all types.
10pm - Phantom
Droid
9.15pm -
Lucky Number Seven
Phantom Droid’s music sounds like the band is trying to drag itself out of the primordial ooze. It is dark yet psychedelic, doom-laden yet filled with intense edges. They make music that is all about escape, filling their songs with brave new worlds, strange alien lifeforms, and bugs. To say that the live show is intense is the understatement of the year; expect a loud, visceral, and mind-altering experience.
8.30pm
Any band that sounds like it invented alternative rock in a disused parking lot in Detroit in 1968 during riot season will be a band that you will want to check out. Depending on your record collection, they sound like the angriest modern alt-rockers, the gnarliest nu-metal band of the nineties or the most sonically subversive 60’s garage band ever. It’s like a history lesson in all the best, wrong-side-of-the-tracks music ever made.
- Ritual Divide
Ritual Divide is an alternative rock band whose music comes from a unique liminal space where progressive grunge, neo-goth and melodic rock all meet and merge.
7.45pm - Soak
I’m not quite sure exactly where grunge washes up on the shores of alt-rock or where stoner rock begins to assimilate with the fringes of heavy metal, but where
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THE BEEHIVE
9.30pm - AllStar Jamboree Function Band
10.15pm
- Reuben’s Daughters
Pop may have been in the doldrums of late, so much so that a band such as Reuben’s Daughters might not even ping on the average pop picker’s radar. But they are undoubtedly pop. Pop for the discerning. Poised pop at that. Pop with a purpose. Pop with a Ph.D. Pop in a style that once was and, thanks to bands like them, pop that will be again. The pop that you need in your life, now more than ever. Reuben’s Daughters aren’t just a pop band; they are a lifeline.
This jangly four-piece indie pop/rock band, despite the name, is not a star. It has never attended a jamboree and does not perform as a function band. There isn’t much more I can tell you about this ironically named outfit, but with James Turner as band leader, I’m sure you are in for a real treat.
8pm
8.45pm
- English Weather
Jack March and Aidan Petrie are a dual songwriting partnership that writes songs packed with catchy melodies, beautiful harmonies, and a full, rich sound.
English Weather is a refreshing, modern take on the Folk Music Scene of the 1960s and 1970s. Theirs is a world of lush sonics and delicate sonic structures. It’s like a slice of Laurel Canyon coming to Old Town.
- Sophie & The Sticks
Sophie and the Sticks take their Shuffle bow with a brand of moody, introspective, piano-driven pop - raw and honest songwriting built round a tight rhythm section and embellished with soulful vocals. Oh, and if you were wondering about the name, the band began as a duo of Sophie on keys and Leah aka ‘The Sticks’ on drums. Which makes bassist and guitarist Jon the “&” we guess.
7.15pm - Richard Wileman and Amy Fry
Richard Wileman is a prolific Swindon composer/songwriter and the man
10.15pm
THE CASTLE
- TALK IN CODE
Across numerous releases, Talk In Code has proven its ability to walk in various, often contradictory worlds. They blend pop infectiousness with more indie-driven sonic weight. They tip their hat slightly to the shimmering poise and polish of ‘80s synth-infused pop while helping to drive its modern counterpart into a bright new future. They are both anthemic and accessible, blending melody with just enough muscle to rise well above mere chart pretensions. Their songs are precisely the shot in the arm that the charts could do with.
9.30pm
- Truck
8.45pm
- The Real Cheesemakers
Truck combines the sounds of indie rock, country, and no slight touch of emo to deliver a fresh take on the genres they grew up listening to. Imagine Wheatus if they were British. Better still, think of Dodgy, minus the Brit-pop associations. The same musical balance of infectiousness and well-wrought songs, the same array of light and shade, the same fine line walked between youthful drive and melodic maturity.
8pm
Billed as the West Country’s premiere nonsense group, The Real Cheesemakers are a band that you won’t want to miss. And if that opening line conjures thoughts of bands like The Wurzels, that isn’t a bad place to start. Only times it by 10, add the square root of Salvidor Dali, divide by Monty Python, and multiply by The Clash. For fans of songs about cheese, trousers, cheese, unicorns, cheese, roundabouts, cheese, weasels, and...did I mention cheese?
- The Belladonna Treatment
If you are bored with the cooler-than-thou attitude of indie bands, the blandness that is pop, and the cliche of rock, then you are ready for The Belladonna Treatment, a band that blends elements from all of those genres and more besides, but rights all those genres wrongs along the way. Witty and wise, poignant and powerful, melodic and muscular. They seem to have it all.
7.15pm
If you like bands that are difficult to pin down, label, tag, or generally pigeon-hole, you must see Liddington Hill. Depending on which aspect of their music hits you first, they are a grunge band, an SEPT 14
- Liddington Hill
S A T U R D A Y
Sept 14
S A T U R D A Y
9.30pm
THE HOP
10.15pm - Ellis Evason
If you are looking for cool, intimate hip-hop for the contemporary world, look no further than Ellis Evason. Blending everything from old-school soul to jazz to smart lyricism, Evason is nothing if not adventurous and since the release of his second studio album “SINS OF THE FATHER”, he has been working on new collaborative projects with wildly different sounds to his previous records to remain one of the most constantly evolving and undeniably interesting acts around.
- Kairo Beats
Kairo Beats, comprised of Jordan Hendon and Chiarna Deller, is a dynamic DJ and production duo that has been making waves in the house and producing techno music scenes for several years. Merging pop-infused R&B moves with melodic deep house grooves, the duo is unique in that they blur the lines between numerous genres, including future bass and dance-pop.
8.45pm
- Sebastian Reynolds
Known as a creator of music that wanders into beat-driven dance territory and explores more fractured and fragile soundscapes, Reynolds is a producer, collaborator, remixer and writer for stage and screen. He pushes the frontiers of electronic music with blends of chiming beats, eerie electronica, and spoken word, but also future-tribal drum patterns, slashes and slivers of doppler-effected sonics, exploring the realms of dance eclecticism and digital elegance as he goes. The future might be unwritten, but it already has a soundtrack.
8pm - Swurli
High energy queer electronica duo from Reading who take classic jungle and UK garage influences and blend them with playfully lyrical songwriting.
Despite the creative DIY set up the deftly blended beats, punchy melodies and lively rhythms still manage to get you up dancing.
7.15pm - S99
As we broaden our musical reach we are pleased to bring up-and-coming local Hip Hop artist S99 to the party. An artist who blends classic Hip Hop tropes
Sept 15
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THE TUPPENNY
2.30pm
3.15pm - Copper Creek
A foot-stomping blend of frantic folk, Celtic spirit and anthemic Americana sounds, inspired by the great songwriting traditions of British, Irish and American roots music. This 5-piece multi-instrument band offers sublime vocal harmonies, spiralling guitar riffs, mandolin and banjo lilts, bass, fiddle, kick drum, whistles and more—Celtic folk with an American heart, or vice versa.
- Blind Justice Page
It is the music of the American South that inspires Blind Justice Page, particularly that of the 1920s and 30s. Robert Johnson’s country blues, Woody Guthrie’s Dust Bowl ballads, and Bessie Smith’s Vaudeville excesses form the foundations for their brand of nostalgic Americana music. If you like blues, this is about as authentic as possible.
1.45pm - David J Lynch
Although familiar to many through bands such as Jacksauce and The Labradors, David Lynch’s live outings are rarer treats, so make sure you catch him whilst you can. Expect deftly crafted songs that range from the upbeat, brit-pop infused to the folksome and balladic, from the serious to the more lighthearted and always just as much fun with his between-song banter. David is as much a raconteur as he is a minstrel.
1pm - Ellie Chad
Lead singer with the band Cobalt Fire, Ellie Chad, is a singersongwriter with a rock sensibility at the heart of her style. Once described as a combination of Nirvana meets Amanda Palmer, Ellie takes the listener through an exploration of deep emotions - anger, lust, gratitude and a spice for life. Ellie has
THE BEEHIVE
8.15pm - JB & The Mojo Makers
Not just a supergroup but a super-fun group. With Jim Blair’s regular musical vehicle, Hiproute, taking a well-earned breather, he has assembled a new band out of the great and good (not to mention the suspicious and the downright questionable) of the local musicians. Brilliant bluesy rock designed to rouse the rabble and get the venue dancing, singing, drinking, bopping, and generally grooving along. Just what the doctor ordered. The doctor of music, that is.
7.30pm
- Concrete Prairie
Concrete Prairie is a five-piece ensemble that blurs the genres of folk, country, Americana, indie, and blues to create a heartworm and harmonious sound. Though their compositions often tackle heavy and topical themes, the songs are “shot through with silver linings”, evidenced by a spirited and rousing sound orchestrated with twanging guitars, straining fiddle and yearning prose.
6.45pm
- The Shudders
Shuffle stalwarts The Shudders return for another set of rousing indie meets Americana meets alt-folk. Expect everything from poetic lyricism to rousing singalong stomps, delicate rootsy grace to fist-in-the-air, beer-spilling anthems, deft guitars and daft interband interludes. What would the Shuffle be without The Shudders? Please don’t answer that; I was being rhetorical.
6pm
- Mireille Mathlener Band
Netherlands-born, Bristol-based artist Mireille Mathlener has a growing reputation for striking songs with a captivating, narrative quality. She has drawn comparisons to the likes of Neil Young and Chrissie Hynde and built her name on consistently brilliant live performances that are a highwire act, seeing her walk deftly between breezy modern Americana and dark melodic alternative rock.
5.15pm
- Leon Daye Band
Epic, widescreen rock and roll in the vein of Feeder and The Manic Street Preachers. Blues, rock, indie and even a sliver of punk all find their way into the mix, and the
4.30pm
- Courting Ghosts
Fusing elements of acoustica, country, and folk music with occasional touches of rock and jazz, Courting Ghosts is a band whose music runs from intimate ballads to foot-on-the-monitor
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SHUFFLE FRINGE
Mon Sept 9 - The Ink Talk
7.30pm @ The Hop - Prospect Hospice CEO Jeremy Lune
The Shuffle Fringe opens with a talk from Jeremy Lune the CEO of festival charity Prospect Hospice brought to you by The Ink, the news subscription service for Swindon. The talk will be entitIed ‘Don’t mention the D-word’. This fits in with Prospect’s vision of ‘A community where death is no longer a taboo and everyone lives and dies well’. The talk will also tackle the misconceptions around Prospect Hospice.
Weds Sept 11 - The Shuffle Quiz
7.30pm @ The Beehive, Prospect Place £2 per person (max 6 in a team)
Usually the traditional opener to The Shuffle this quiz is run by committee members Ed and Paj - so expect more beards than a ZZ Top convention.
Team registration is from 7.30pm, with the quizzing from 8pm. All entry fees go to Prospect Hospice.
Fri
Sept 13
Tues Sept 10
Swindon’s Greatest Hits
6.30pm to 10pm @ Floor 2, Swindon Central Library, Regent Circus
How much do you know about Swindon’s place in music history? Long before XTC, which local act won Melody Maker best band - twice?
What links our town with Snoopy, the London Symphony Orchestra, and Black Sabbath?
Come and explore
Swindon’s surprising musical heritage in an after-hours tour of the Local Studies collection. Tours at 7pm and 830pm - with bar, live music, and DJs in between.
- Swindon’s Local Studies collection– held at Central Library – collect and keep anything, in any format, on any subject, ever printed or published about life in and around Swindon: historic maps, photos, scrapbooks, CDs, vinyl, DVDs, VHS, postcards, slides, plans, and much, much more (donations are very welcome!).
- Fringe @ The Eternal Optimist
9.30pm - Dan Cooper - Dan has been active on a microcosmic level over the last three decades. A poet, DJ, and performer, Dan’s music combines DIY bedroom pop, experimental/improvised plunderphonics, and emotionally driven auto-tuned RnB.
8.45pm - t.e.d - Tan Sholto-Douglas, known musically as t.e.d, is a guitarist, pianist and songwriter with an impressive online following. Hers is an acoustic-led, lo-fi, indie sound forged from threads of altpop, R&B and old-school troubadour deliveries, ethereal vocals and synth washes.
8pm - Chloe Hepburn - There is a reason why Chloe is lined up to make her fourth consecutive Shuffle appearance. Moving away from cutting-edge synth-pop and metamorphosing into a slick indiepop/soul singer she is a perfect marker of where modern music is at.
SHUFFLE FRINGE
Saturday Sept 14
Baristocats Fringe Events
7.15pm - Stic Basin (in Dub) - With such bands as XTC and Shriekback to his name, it is fair to say that Barry Andrews knows what he is doing. and what he is doing here is blending the tropes of 70’s reggae and its spirit of de/reconstruction to mangle and re-purpose some Shriekback tunes. As a live vehicle, Stic Basin is a new avenue, and everything is improvised.
6.15pm - Zambalando (duo) - Zambalando plays music in the styles of Salsa, Merengue, Lando, Festejo, Samba, and Bossa Nova in a unique ‘twist’ of compound time signatures and complex rhythms, creating their own original style.
5.10pm - Bob Bobbington & James Turner - This project from musical polymaths Bob and James (from the All Star Jamboree Function Band) is something of a riddle wrapped in mystery inside an enigma. Nobody really knows how it is going to end up.
4pm - Midiphonic - Rising out of the Electronic Music Open Mic scene, Midiphonic’ spans experimental adventures, cinematic sounds, and hooky and accessible tunes, all using sample-free synthesis live on stage.
3pm - Bald Eagle - Playing mainly blues and standards garnered from rock and roll, country and folk, Bald Eagle add a tasteful, jazzy touch to everything they do.
2.10pm - Phil Gilvin - A set of classic folk favourites and more recent compositions, played with a deft and dexterous sense of style and taste.
1.15pm - Phil Mercy - Phil is from the English/Swedish band “Thieves’ Kitchen”, who were once described as “prog goes to Canterbury”. Phil’s solo work is an exciting ambient improv. guitar and electronica project.
Shuffle Community Ceilidh with Cowshed Ceilidh Collective 7pm to 10pm @ Eastcott Community Centree
For a night of fantastic music and dancing, you can’t beat a good oldfashioned ceilidh and The Community Ceilidh returns again this year as part of the Swindon Shuffle. Run by Swindon Folk Club with the Cowshed
Fringe DJ Nights
Moore’s Exotic Reserve (Tuppenny - Friday eve)
A blend of Afrobeat, Latin Funk, Cosmic Jazz and other rich global grooves.
Random Rules (TuppennySaturday eve)
An all-vinyl night of soul, cosmic country,hip-hop, afrobeat, post-punk, kosmichemusik and much more.
Baila & Friends (Pick Up Point - Saturday from 9.30pm)
The official after-party. A late night throwback to the Baila sessions of yore. Vinyl 45’s sets of classic beats and funky grooves with some special guest DJ’s.
Magic Roundabout Records (Little Hop - Saturday eve)
The regular Bring Your Own Vinyl night joins the party. It’s your chance to join the line up and play 5 of your favourite tunes on vinyl. See socials for sign up details.
Neat Neat Neat (Eternal Optimist - Saturday eve)
A themed night of big tunes on vinyl as Neat Neat Neat and friends brings the party.
Prospect Shop, Commercial Road
In-store live music from midday to 4pm
The Hop The Tuppenny
22:15 Subject A 21:30 Atari Pilot 20:45 Wild Isles 20:00 In-Flight Movie 19:30 Emma Doupé 20:15 Thieves 21:00 The Pagan Fringe (trio) 21:45 B-Sydes
Friday 13 September
The Victoria The Hop 19:45 Nostromo 20:30 OOJAH 21:15 I SEE ORANGE 22:00 Viduals 22:45 Chasing Dolls Swindon Folk Club Stage Doors 7.45 pm for 8pm startevent will include open floor spots and a raffle 20:10 Little Known Strings 20:55 Sloe Jam 22:00 Blackthorn Buskers
The Castle 19:15 Hooch 20:00 The Sitting Tenants
20:45 Black Hats 21:30 THUD 22:15 Matt Owens and The Delusional Vanity Project 19:15 Abstraction Engine
FINDER
Saturday 14 September Sunday 15 September The Vic The Tuppenny The Beehive The Hop The Tuppenny 15:30 M3G 16:15 Jol Rose 17:00 David Corrigan 17:45 Phil King
14:45 Sienna Wileman 20:00 Sophie & The Sticks
David J Lynch 14:30 Blind Justice Page 15:15 Copper Creek The Castle 20:00 The Belladonna Treatment 19:15 Liddington Hill 20:45 The Real Cheesemakers 21:30 Truck 22:15 TALK IN CODE 13:00 Ellie Chad 14:00 Tildy The Beehive 21:30 The All-Star Jamboree Function Band 19:15 S99 20:00 Swurli 20:45 Sebastian Reynolds 21:30 Kairo Beats 22:15 Ellis Evason
18:30 Sayers 19:15 Richard Wileman and Amy Fry 20:45 English Weather 22:15 Reuben’s Daughters
Courting Ghosts
Leon Daye Band
JB & The Mojo Makers 20:30 Ritual Divide 19:45 Soak 21:15 Lucky Number Seven 22:00 Phantom Droid 22:45 NervEndings
Mireille Mathlener Band
The Shudders
Concrete Prairie
Creating immersive audio at Real World Studios in Wiltshire
