Destination Basingstoke

Hampshire OctoberFest Music

16-17
Sept

The live music programme is a much loved part of the atmosphere and fun at the Hampshire OctoberFest, we are excited to be bringing a wide range of bands featuring covers and original singer songwriters to the stage for a full programme on both Friday and Saturday.

Friday headlines with the Johnny Marvel Blues Groove, compered by Riley K, starting from around 5pm. On Saturday we have some aspiring young bands to get you gently in the mood through the afternoon, then a livelier vibe  into the evening with well known Ska band Skangsters as our headline for Saturday night.  

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more information on the bands and see below the line-up. Timings are approximate and may be subject to change.

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Friday Line-Up

Johnny Marvel’s Blues Groove are a seven-piece combo specialising in old-school rhythm ‘n’ blues, soul and good-time rock n roll. Johnny and the band have been delighting audiences in bars, clubs and festivals far and wide for over a decade with their performances, featuring the coolest tunes and the hottest grooves from the 60s, 70s and beyond.

The Whispering Pines are a five piece from Hampshire, playing classic Americana / Folk / Rock from the great bands and artists of the 60s and 70s. Neil Young, The Byrds, CCR, The Grateful Dead, The Band, Bob Dylan and more.

Tomorrow’s Retro are a four piece covers band from Basingstoke who play songs ranging from Amy Winehouse to Justin Timberlake. Their singer Mel Saunders sings in venues such as the O2 and Wembley and has even sung at the famous Abbey Road Studios! The band aims to have the audience dancing and singing in no time and begging for more!

Alex Middleton is a 24 year old musician from Basingstoke. Coming off the back of performing on P&O’s Ventura & Brittany Ferries’ Pont Aven he is looking forward to getting back into the groove of some inland performances. Boasting Styles of Bruce Springsteen, Mumford & Sons & a sprinkle of James Bay, his songs are sure to get you singing and dancing along! Credited of working with people & companies such as; Ramin Karimloo (Phantom Of The Opera, Holly City), Cath Kidston, Ministry Of Sound, The Adelphi Theatre. You can be rest assured you will have a good time listening to him!

My name is Riley K and I’m a singer songwriter from southern England. Specialising in Pop with elements of Electronic, R&B and Jazz guitar. As heard on BBC Introducing East Midlands and BBC Nottingham.

As well as performing, Riley K will be your Friday night compere.

Saturday Line-Up

Chris Holden & Max Toogood - Comperes for Saturday

Chris is a well known local musician who does a lot for upcoming artists by coaching them and providing them with countless opportunities to perform live shows around the UK. Chris is a regular on BBC Radio hosting the gig guide and has worked alongside large bands, using his positive energy to get the crowds ready for a great event! 

Max Toogood will be joining Chris to make it twice as good! Max is a very popular upcoming musician who performs an average of 2-3 gigs every week! 

Chris and Max will be giving us a huge mix of well known songs while introducing all the amazing acts we have lined up for you at this year’s Octoberfest!

The Skangsters have been performing Ska/Soul/Two Tone music for over 25 years. Heralded as the best Ska covers band you will see, this side of the Watford Gap.

A Must See Band.

Formed in October 2014, So Close have done much “Rocking of Socks to the point of them being removed” with various very talented musicians in the South East Area….and nearby. Performing at Weddings, Festivals, Private parties, bars and even a fashion show, they have worked hard to ensure great music and entertainment for over 100 gigs.

Like a support group for recent divorcees, the members of Buds found each other following the demise of their former bands. With 2 EPs under their belt (“Buds.” 2019 Old Boat Records & “Full” 2021 Beth Shalom Records) Buds. combine punk energy with anthemic sing along songs to make you smile in spite of your existential dread. 

‘Whisper Through Walls’ are a byproduct of the pandemic lockdown. A like minded group of experienced musicians with one goal in mind……To write and record songs that address important issues surrounding mental health and well being. They are ready to uplift you with their own brand of pop rock n funk.

Crisis Averted are an up and coming 5-piece female-fronted electric rock band hailing from Hampshire. Drawing inspiration from bands such as Muse; heavy beats, driving riffs and crazy vocals are what they aim to deliver. In their very short life, Crisis Averted already have 3 studio singles released. Looking to get on the radar of local venues and promotors this is a band not to miss.

Back from a 4 years away, High Tide Royals are a Basingstoke based rock ‘n’ roll band drawing inspiration from artists such Oasis, Arctic Monkey and Foo Fighters. After a long break away, the band are now looking forward to getting back to the stage and playing a mix of original and cover rock and roll anthems! 

They are excited to be back to Hampshire Octoberfest after last performing there in 2018.

Beyond the Sons are a five piece, kid rock band from Newbury in Berkshire. 

With over a million online views across social media sites, the young rock band (who average just thirteen years of age!) have wowed audiences everywhere they play, and were recently selected as the headline act for a prestigious SoFar Sounds event at The Brook in Southampton, claiming the title of the youngest band ever to do so in the world. 

Drawing inspiration from his musical heroes Freddie Mercury, Paul McCartney, David Bowie and Jeff Buckley, Alex is taking his first big steps into the solo music scene. He is no stranger to lending his voice to a wide array of styles and genres – specialising primarily in melodic alternative rock. 

 Alex’s musical talents can clearly be seen in his penmanship, as well as in his vocal performances. .

River Jay Stone

This acoustic artist, best known for their arresting vocals, performs a mix of original songs and covers to a rich backdrop of fingerstyle guitar. Sweet and soulful, they project a kind of hopeful melancholy that disarms with its sincerity.

Marley Garrard is a young and aspiring singer/songwriter who plays guitar skilfully. Despite being only 13 years old, he’s had a passion for music since a young age and has strived on since. Marley writes his own songs and is always willing to play for whoever wants to listen.

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