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This week in Ipswich: The Delta Bombers, Bernard Butler and African Head Charge

Sadie Rycroft reviews last week's best live music performances from Ipswich and gives you the low-down on this week's must-see gigs.

Last week's highlights

Thursday 17th October: Porij at The Baths

Porij brought their genre-blending sound to The Baths, captivating the crowd with their mix of indie rock and electronic dance. The Manchester-bred band has been hailed as ‘ones to watch’ by The Guardian, NME, and BBC Radio 6, and they certainly lived up to the hype with a new audience dancing the night away.

The night kicked off with French Nancy, a synth-pop Krautrock outfit that set the perfect tone with their infectious energy.

Friday 18th October: Barrioke at The Baths

Shaun Williamson, aka Barry from Eastenders, had the crowd singing their hearts out at Barrioke. The feel-good karaoke night hosted by Alternative Ipswich was a hit, with Shaun leading the crowd through classic singalongs.

The energy was high, the laughs were plenty, and the night was filled with fun memories for everyone involved.

Friday 18th October: Helix at The Smokehouse

Ipswich’s alternative scene lit up on Friday night as Helix headlined at The Smokehouse. Since forming in 2023, the band has quickly gained momentum, and their performance didn’t disappoint.

Helix performing at The Smokehouse in Ipswich
Benji PsarosBenji Psaros
Helix performing at The Smokehouse in Ipswich

The crowd was treated to tracks from their debut EP Truth Be Told and the first-ever live performance of their new single Fight or Flight.

Supporting acts Suns of Icarus and Down ‘N’ Out rounded out a fantastic night of local talent.

Saturday 19th October: Khoshekh at The Smokehouse

The Smokehouse was buzzing on Saturday as Khoshekh returned to the stage, bringing their signature mix of garage rock and grunge.

Saving Peach added their high-energy pop-punk flair, while Fractures from Brighton rounded out the night with their chaotic skate-punk vibes. It was a night of raw, unapologetic rock.

Sunday 20th October: Pom Poko at St Stephen’s Church

To close out the week, Pom Poko delivered an explosive performance at St Stephen’s Church. The Norwegian post-punk band, known for blending post-punk with math-rock, filled the historic venue with their eclectic sound.

Support from congratulations and Fan Girl added to the electric atmosphere, creating a unique, genre-defying experience for the audience.

Coming up this week

Wednesday 23rd October

Thursday 24th October

Bernard Butler at St Stephen’s Church

Award-winning artist and founding member of Suede, Bernard Butler, takes the stage at St Stephen’s Church this Thursday.

  • Music, Gigs & Concerts
  • 24 October
  • 19:30-23:00
Bernard Butler at St Stephen’s Church in Ipswich

Saturday 26th October

African Head Charge at The Baths

African Head Charge, co-founded by legendary producer Adrian Sherwood, is bringing their unique blend of dub-reggae, tribal rhythms, and electronica to The Baths.

  • Music, Gigs & Concerts
  • 26 October
  • 19:30-23:00
African Head Charge at The Baths in Ipswich

This week is packed with unforgettable live music across Ipswich's top venues! Mark your calendars and grab your tickets while you still can.

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