The 1865 presents by arrangement with Solent Area Prog 
THE FAR MEADOW Returning to The 1865 for their first co-headline in three years, The Far Meadow bring their own distinctive form of fusion-inspired symphonic progressive rock, already familiar to Solent Area Prog fans after several local appearances. Founder member and keyboardist Eliot Minn’s creative partnership with Keith Buckman (bass) and Denis Warren (guitar) began in 2011, after they joined to refresh a previous line-up of the band. They have since performed several headlines and festivals including A New Day Festival, Cambridge Rock Festival, Danfest, Fusion, HRH Prog, Prog the Forest, Prog for Peart, Resonance, and Summer’s End, drawing on their album releases Given the Impossible (2016) and Foreign Land (2019). 2026 sees the introduction of two new members. Bringing a new voice to the storytelling, singer songwriter LuLu Ash is an established solo artist with an array of atmospheric single releases and an album A Trick of the Light (2024). Behind the drums, Aidan Marsden’s percussion expertise and experience of diverse musical forms ranges across the classical repertoire, through accompanying singer-songwriters such as Gaja, to the black metal of Thing. Performing a good proportion of unreleased material, The Far Meadow will of course play some more familiar songs from their past releases: https://thefarmeadow.bandcamp.com/album/foreign-landthefarmeadow.bandcamp.com

 
DOMINIC SANDERSON
Liverpool-based musician Dominic Sanderson places his foot firmly in the 70s prog-rock camp! With influences ranging from King Crimson, Van der Graaf Generator and Steven Wilson, through to Canterbury Scene giants Caravan and Soft Machine, Sanderson and his band bring a raw, untamed and aggressive sound! After taking his first steps into the world of progressive rock with the “Discarded Memories” EP (2020) and his debut album, “Impermanence” (2023), Sanderson and band recorded Blazing Revelations, which made its way into many 2025 end-of-year best-of lists. This album showcases an eclectic array of styles, from the symphonic approaches of “From the Weeping Cradle” and “Lullaby for a Broken Dream” to the Canterbury flavours of “Faithless Folly” and the acid folk of “A Rite of Wrongs”. Sanderson and band are a force to be reckoned with in the live arena, as exemplified by Sanderson’s newest release, “Live Revelations”, a live album recorded at the Birmingham Symphony Hall.
https://dominicsanderson.bandcamp.com/

Description

The 1865 stands as a significant cultural anchor within Southampton, a converted warehouse that has evolved into the city's premier independent venue for live events. Once a working men's club for the local dockers, its enduring presence now serves as a vital hub, drawing both established and emerging artists to the south coast and providing a dynamic space for community gatherings.

Inside, the venue retains a grounded character, with a spacious stage and a large mezzanine offering clear sightlines across the room. The rich, clear sound from the d&b audiotechnik system fills the air, while the subtle pattern of the carpet underfoot in the raised bar area adds a touch of unexpected comfort amidst the industrial aesthetic. Modern lighting rigs illuminate the space, creating an immersive atmosphere for every performance.

Practicality is well-considered, with two fully-stocked bars ensuring swift service and a range of respectfully priced drinks. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, with dedicated staff available to assist with specific requirements. While on-street parking is limited, several paid car parks are conveniently located nearby, though public transport is often the most straightforward option for event-goers.

Throughout the year, The 1865 hosts a diverse calendar of events. From vibrant club nights and live music spanning various genres to engaging comedy shows and theatrical performances, the venue also accommodates private functions, corporate gatherings, and celebratory occasions, reflecting its versatile role in the city's social fabric.