Skip to main contentEnter
Purposeful journalism for people who care about our town
Ipswich.co.uk logoSupport our journalism
Feature

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.

Our content is free to read thanks to the generous support of Attwells Solicitors

Feature

What's on in Ipswich this Christmas: Your guide to festive shows

From traditional pantomimes at the Regent and New Wolsey Theatre to dance adaptations of classic tales and cinema screenings, Ipswich venues are offering entertainment for all ages throughout the festive season.
by
Continue reading →
News

Persimmon Homes buys land for 465 new homes in Ipswich

Persimmon Homes Suffolk has completed the purchase of land at Henley Gate, marking the housebuilder's return to Ipswich after several years, with plans to deliver 465 new homes.
by
Continue reading →

ICS, Ipswich School and All About Hearing

The ICS team outside their offices in Henley, just outside Ipswich

ICS

Founded in 1998, ICS has been the trusted IT partner to businesses across Ipswich and Suffolk for over a quarter of a century.
Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

Exceptional hearing care with a personal touch

Suffolk’s independent hearing specialists, combining expert care, cutting-edge technology and personalised service to help you hear at your best.
News

Ipswich man jailed for five years after rape conviction

Leon Thomas, 53, formerly of Farina Close in Ipswich, was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday after a jury found him guilty of raping a woman he knew.
by
Continue reading →
News

Suffolk and Norfolk mayoral elections to be delayed by two years

The government is expected to announce today that it will postpone planned elections for a new Suffolk and Norfolk mayor from May 2026 to 2028, marking the second delay to democratic processes in the region this year.
by
Continue reading →

ICS, Ipswich School and All About Hearing

The ICS team outside their offices in Henley, just outside Ipswich

ICS

Founded in 1998, ICS has been the trusted IT partner to businesses across Ipswich and Suffolk for over a quarter of a century.
Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

Exceptional hearing care with a personal touch

Suffolk’s independent hearing specialists, combining expert care, cutting-edge technology and personalised service to help you hear at your best.
Load more content
This article is free to read thanks to
Want our best content delivered to your inbox every Friday?

Have you subscribed to our free weekly newsletter?

If you haven’t, you really should. You’ll get our best content delivered to your inbox every Friday afternoon, just in time for the weekend. You can unsubscribe at any time, although 99.7% of people don’t.

  • Lee Walker
  • Joe Bailey of Brighten the Corners
  • Mark Hubert
6,630+ people are already loving it