For years, Chris Payn has been a familiar face on stages across Dorset and beyond, building a reputation as a passionate performer, songwriter and frontman. Now, as American radio stations begin playing his music and inviting him for interviews, the Dorset musician finds himself entering an exciting new chapter. While juggling solo performances, appearances with Chris Payn & The Parade, a new collaborative duo project and a recently formed rock supergroup, Payn remains focuse

The early 2000s indie revival is alive and well, and it is heading straight for Bournemouth this summer. The Strokes tribute act Is This Strokes are bringing a full-throttle celebration of one of indie rock’s most influential albums to Bear Cave on 6 June 2026, marking 25 years since the release of Is This It. For fans of sharp guitar riffs, sweaty club nights and era-defining indie anthems, this could be one of Bournemouth’s most nostalgic gigs of the summer. “We have all gr

Good Vibes Rollercoaster are bringing positivity-fuelled rock ‘n’ roll back to the South West with huge singalong anthems, nostalgic influences and a rapidly growing global audience. We explore the story behind the project, their Dorset recording roots and the comeback journey powering one of the region’s most exciting new music collectives.

South West indie rock band RatTrap are bringing chaos, sweat and serious energy to the live music scene with growing crowds, upcoming Dorset gigs and a debut EP now in the works.

Dorset venues including Electric Palace Bridport are joining Music Venue Trust’s nationwide Everywhere At Once initiative, celebrating grassroots live music, local artists and independent music culture across the county.