Monday 21st July - 8:00pm

Sunset Café Stompers

The Sunset Cafe was a top night-spot on Chicago’s infamous South Side. Al Capone owned it, Louis Armstrong starred there. The Sunset Cafe Stompers do play the music of that period... great tunes from Scott Joplin, Irving Berlin, Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller... but the band’s wide repertoire also features songs made famous by artists as diverse as Patsy Cline, Marilyn Monroe, the Inkspots, Fats Domino... even Elvis. Beneath it all, one can sense the elusive, shifting, pulse which defines the sound of New Orleans. In that city, ever since the 1900s, bands have been hired to attract a crowd, or to add spirit and generate excitement for all kinds of occasion. Throughout the last twenty years we have followed in that tradition: playing jazz clubs, concerts for churches, arts centres, village dances, weddings, festivals, funerals, garden parties... from our Dorset/Somerset base, down to Cornwall and up to Cumbria

Friday 25th July - 9:15pm

Concrete Prairie

United by a love of all things Folk, Alt-Country & Americana, Concrete Prairie are a five-piece ensemble delivering a veritable soundtrack for the glamour and grit of modern living. While their compositions tackle big themes, the songs are shot through with hope, evidenced by a spirited and rousing sound orchestrated with twanging guitars, straining fiddle and yearning prose. Having headlined local festivals and on a wave of support from BBC Introducing, the quintet released their debut album - recorded at Real World studios with John Reynolds (Sinead O’Connor, Damien Dempsey, Indigo Girls) - in Sept ‘22 to huge acclaim from Americana UK and RnR Magazine. "UK Americana at its best, 10/10 album review”. With their electric live performances sitting somewhere between Folk, Alt-Country & Indie-Americana the group have been gathering fans & followers in the South West and beyond. Whether they are grooving on the cathartic, rootsy stomp of their own “Bury My Blues”; navigating the majestic meanderings of their Folk & Country catalogue; or channelling spaghetti western soundtracks, the band invite you to get lost in a world where hearts pound proudly upon sleeve!

Saturday 26th July - 9:15pm

Kid Hyena

Trailblazing Urban Folk Music from the South West Founded on the backstreets of Barcelona and influenced by old school folk & hip hop sounds, alternative rock, experimental and dance music, the band's life began with an exploratory period of intensive recording where they released three limited edition albums over two and a half years. Some songs went on to be featured on Spanish & UK radio. In September 2021 the band purchased an old motorhome and sought to put the pandemic behind them by hitting the road to do what they love the most. Since then they have played countless shows here, there & everywhere including the Isle of Wight & Glastonbury festivals entertaining audiences week in week out with their rebel rousing show. Now based in Plymouth (South West England) where they continue to evolve the percussive 'Urban Folk' sounds of their live show that uses rhythm tap dance in a bombastic & visceral manner and more often than not sees the audience take to the stage with them to sing on mass. They have just released a new album ‘It Takes Courage To Be Happy’ & as ever the band cease to remain static and continue to look for new innovative ways

Sunday 27th July - 6:30pm

Flamenco Thief

Craig Sutton, aka “The Flamenco Thief”, is an English instrumentalist who blends fingerstyle and percussive guitar techniques to produce a classic-contemporary Mediterranean sound with lashings of South-American substance. His music incorporates Spanish acoustic, Latin, rumba, and bosa nova with hip-hop and electronica. With a career spanning 14 years, 4 albums, and numerous tours in Europe, Asia, and South America, he has established himself as a respected artist within the independent music scene. His music features a unique hybrid palette of classic instrumental sounds and digital elements that appeal to diverse cultures. Craig’s philosophy of experimenting and trying new things is evident in his album’s progressive journey, from showcasing his raw musicianship to featuring full instrumental sections. He has toured extensively throughout his career, performing in notable locations such as Berlin, Munich, Prague, Sofia, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. He has played at major events and festivals, including Glastonbury and Fusion Festival. Craig’s touring experience has allowed him to showcase his sound to audiences from different cultures and backgrounds worldwide, creating a diverse fan base.

Fri 1st August - 8:30pm

Punk Soul Brothers

Punk Soul Brothers are a French-Catalan-British band from near Perpignan in southern France. Pierrot, Nico and Cam are bass, machine, guitar and vocals. They write and play their own original compositions of electro dance music with a punk soul. Their mission is to make music that makes you want to dance and their musical influences stretch from funk to punk, from trip-hop to drum and bass, with hints of ska, blues, dancehall, garage, Arabian etc. all mashed in.

We bring this gig to you in association with Fuelled By Cider

Sat 2nd August - 8:30pm

Steve White and the Protest Family

In the midst of the rise of post-truth and right-wing populism, it’s such a relief to hear an alternative view. This band have plenty to say and pull no punches saying it, poking fun and righteous wrath at the rich and powerful and making us laugh. Hailing from Walthamstow in east London, and favourites of the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival, where Steve and Lol run the Tolpuddle Unplugged show every year, Steve White & The Protest Family are punk minstrels who bring the traditions of the folk club, picket line, basement punk show, football terrace and boozy pub bray-along to the stage, inviting comparisons with The Clash, The Men They Couldn’t Hang, Ian Dury and Billy Bragg, chronicling the tales of our times with songs that are savage, witty and thought-provoking. We are proud to bring this gig to you in association with Fuelled By Cider

Sun 3rd August - 4:00pm

Matt Pless

Combining elements of folk, punk, pop and rock, Matt Pless can lyrically turn a phrase with the best of them and has been compared to some of the preeminent songwriters of our time. A consummate performer with a high-energy stage presence, Matt Pless travels the road continuously entertaining and astounding his audiences. With guitar and harmonica as his tools of choice and words as his main characters, he has shared the stage with the likes of Maroon 5, Rilo Kiley, Alkaline Trio, Arlo Guthrie, Bad Brains, Fallout Boy, All Time Low and others. Matt’s extensive touring schedule has taken him to Europe, and across the U.S. multiple times playing venues from bars to boxcars and basements and everything in between...wherever there are people to hear his music. And almost anyone can relate to a Matt Pless song. His unique gift for writing lyrics and melodies that appeal to the core of the human condition is, like Matt himself, an experience. We are proud to bring this gig to you in association with Fuelled By Cider

Wednesday 6th August - 8:00pm

Ropemakers Open Mic

We extend a big welcome to all musicians, poets, comedians, storytellers and any other performers to come down and show your talents in the Ropemakers Open Mic Night. Hosted by the talented Chris Deacon

Friday 8th August - 8:30pm

Negra Santa

Negra Santa is a native band from Argentina, defined as a band from the Third World and mestizo. It is also referred to as #AlternoLatinoPunk. The band features conscious lyrics and a musical rhythm, having performed more than 600 shows in Argentina and Europe. With a strong influence from bands like Mano Negra, Manu Chao, and KMST, Negra Santa has successfully merged musical rhythms such as cumbia, cuarteto, punk, ska, and raggamuffin.

Saturday 9th August - 8:30pm

TBC

Sunday 10th August - 4:00pm

James Hollingsworth

James Hollingsworth's original music, and his original take on classic Pop/Rock, Blues and more, is an acoustic fusion of folk, blues, trance, metal and progressive rock.

Wednesday 13th August - 7:30pm

Ropemakers Cheese Club

Cheese Club is set for Wednesday 13th August, and this month we will feature six more delicious artisan cheeses. We will also have a selection of drinks to accompany them available for sale. Booking is essential. Cost is £9.00 per head for cheese board only.

Friday 15th August - 8:30pm

Theo Mizu

Hailing from the vibrant streets of São Paulo, a band with a fusion of Balkan, Middle Eastern, and Brazilian influences is making waves worldwide with its infectious and danceable tunes. Emerging victorious as the "Best Street Band in São Paulo" at the "Toca Aí" competition in 2018, surpassing over 200 competing bands, this eclectic ensemble led by versatile musician Theo Mizú has garnered international acclaim. What sets the project apart is its ability to merge diverse musical elements, creating a rich tapestry of sound. Theo collaborates with musicians from around the globe, resulting in a truly universal musical experience. Having performed extensively across Europe and Asia (tours in the UK, Western and Eastern Europe, Thailand and Japan) and with notable festival shows such as at the British 'BOOMTOWN' - they have become a vibrant sensation in the global music circuit, captivating audiences of all backgrounds.

Saturday 16th August - 8:30pm

Ska Kives

Ska-Kives are a lively Somerset-based band bringing the infectious sounds of ska, rocksteady, reggae, and two-tone to life. With a setlist that celebrates the best of the 60s through to the 80s, they deliver high-energy performances that get audiences dancing from the first beat to the last. Known for their polished covers and unmistakable passion for the genre, Ska-Kives transport listeners back to the golden age of ska and reggae, blending timeless classics with a vibrant stage presence. Whether it’s a favourite two-tone anthem or a rocksteady groove, Ska-Kives always bring the rhythm and soul to every show, making them a must-see for fans of vintage beats and unforgettable live music.

Sunday 17th August - 4:00pm

St, Fian

- St. Fian – We are genuinely ecstatic in welcoming St. Fian back. An immensely talented acoustic / folk based duo based in Somerset who perform gritty original folk music to make you laugh, think twice, dance and cry. They also perform some traditional classics but expect contemporary Irish, Gypsy, shanty and more… these guys will blow our mind much as they did back in February!

Monday 18th August - 8:00pm

Sunset Café Stompers

The Sunset Cafe was a top night-spot on Chicago’s infamous South Side. Al Capone owned it, Louis Armstrong starred there. The Sunset Cafe Stompers do play the music of that period... great tunes from Scott Joplin, Irving Berlin, Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller... but the band’s wide repertoire also features songs made famous by artists as diverse as Patsy Cline, Marilyn Monroe, the Inkspots, Fats Domino... even Elvis. Beneath it all, one can sense the elusive, shifting, pulse which defines the sound of New Orleans. In that city, ever since the 1900s, bands have been hired to attract a crowd, or to add spirit and generate excitement for all kinds of occasion. Throughout the last twenty years we have followed in that tradition: playing jazz clubs, concerts for churches, arts centres, village dances, weddings, festivals, funerals, garden parties... from our Dorset/Somerset base, down to Cornwall and up to Cumbria

Friday 22nd August - 8:30pm

The Zoe Schwarz Bluez Party

Vibrant, contemporary, original, melodic, funky rocking blues featuring Hammond-organ, drums, guitar and vocals. Zoe Schwarz Bluez Party refresh the blues genre with eclectic arrangements, virtuosic playing and vocal prowess. With an exciting live set based around rootsy original songs, strong catchy riffs and exciting grooves; they mix old school tradition with contemporary flare and sophistication. Zoe’s dynamic and commanding vocal delivery, her majestic vocal sweep and interpretive ability, is complimented by the unmistakable and inimitable touch and flow of Rob Koral-guitar; and the highly accomplished rhythm section of Pete Whittaker-Hammond organ and Paul Robinson-drums (Nina Simone, Van Morrison, The Proclaimers, Wonder Stuff, Paul McCartney to name a few) who bring massive musical authority and the ability to push the music in unpredictable and exciting directions. Zoë Schwarz Blue Party have made a considerable impact this last decade, and is one of the band’s that have added a fresh approach and vibrancy to the UK Blues scene, receiving awards and nominations, including finalists in the UK Blues Awards with Female Vocalist, Band, and Album of the Year, several times.

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Saturday 23rd August - 8:30pm

TBC

Sunday 24th August - 4:00pm

Moonfleet

Talented duo from the Weymouth area who play improvised music from around 15 different countries. Rhythmic and melodic, different and interesting, perfect to create a relaxed and happy atmosphere. Mark Duxbury has played for several decades with many musicians. He was part of the English Jazz Quartet alongside Herbie Flowers, Steve Gray and Ronnie Asprey. He has worked alongside Al Kooper, Tom Robinson as well as recording in the Abbey Road Studios with John Williams. Ester Lovaz trained classically in Budapest, then spent time living in Paris and Amsterdam before moving to the UK. She has played with a selection of orchestras before diverging to other, more creative styles of music including Arabic jazz, Armenian and Latin American. This is one not to be missed!

Thursday 28th August - 8:00pm

Folk Session

Friday 29th August - 8:30pm

Ribble Ribble

Ribble - two Northern men, a fiddle, a guitar, and a large beard. So far, so what? Well, add in a 90s drum synth, some mighty arrangements of meaty fiddle tunes, some songs, some wrong turns, battle scars earned busking the streets of Salisbury, a barrowload of end-of-the-pier banter and the feeling that your mad rum-soaked uncle is roaring at you to dance on the tables, then you’re getting close to what Ribble is about. Averaging over 80 gigs a year, these splendid gentlemen have been invited to play Boomtown, Purbeck Folk, Rustic Stomp, New Forest Folk, Wimborne Folk, Wessex Folk amongst many other festivals, and have been main support to some serious names on the circuit including Andy Cutting, Mad Dog Mcrea, Man the Lifeboats, Gerry Colvin and many more.

Saturday 30th August - 8:30pm

What the Phunk

What The Funk are renowned for their high octane blend of funk, soul, jazz, disco and R&B creating a night you won’t forget. Passionate about harmony, melody and irresistible bass lines, What The Funk’s fans come from all walks of life… Dancing and grooving their way onto the dance floor. The core of WTF is the powerful vocals of Andie J-M, backed by an electic mix of experienced musicians. Collectively, their gigging experience is unrivalled! From the raw funk of James Brown to the hip-hop, dance-pop of Black Eyed Peas and Bruno Mars. From pubs, to clubs to weddings to private parties and corporate functions, they know what makes a dance floor jump!