Malt Room Standing
How many bands have the career longevity to release ten albums? They might have been perilously close to falling apart on various occasions in their history, but the Dub Pistols have rolled with the punches and their 10th album is released in 2025.
It’s been a long road travelled, full of twists and turns, but with their legion of faithful fans and numerous collaborators and friends the Dubs are in a better place now than they’ve ever been with a new album, their own festival, a documentary, a book and more international tours on the horizon. These renegade Pistoleros are unstoppable.
The Dub Pistols grew out of the big beat explosion of the mid-1990s. Big beat was the anything-goes reaction to formulaic house music, where — thanks to the wonders of sampling technology — literally anything could be thrown into a dance tune. Taking a cue from the Chemical Brothers and Fatboy Slim, main man Barry Ashworth began making block rockin’ beats with pal Jason O’Bryan, and bombastic first offering ‘There’s Gonna Be A Riot’ was signed by Concrete Records, a subsidiary of DeConstruction. A string of missives followed in its wake — ‘Best Get Better’, the explosive ‘Westway EP’, and then a chipper ‘Cyclone’, which dented the UK national charts — and debut album ‘Point Blank’ was released in 1998.
They’re sneaking out a live reggae album in 2025, and re-releasing their 1998 debut album ‘Point Blank’ on vinyl to cater for the collectors amongst their fans — new and old. With a documentary and a book to follow sooner rather than later, the stage is set for them to carry on uproariously for many more years. Unstoppable!

Description

Brewery Arts Centre stands as a significant cultural anchor in Kendal, a thriving arts organisation with a legacy spanning over fifty years. It functions as a dynamic hub for the North West, consistently delivering an inspiring programme of events and creative learning opportunities.

Within its historic walls, the atmosphere is one of understated sophistication. The blend of original brewery brickwork with contemporary design elements creates an inviting environment, where the subtle scent of old stone and polished wood lingers. Performance spaces are designed to offer clear sightlines and a warm, detailed sound, ensuring an intimate connection between audience and artistry.

Beyond the main performance areas, the centre encompasses tranquil gardens, two modern cinemas, a digital lounge, and a well-appointed bar and restaurant. Accessibility is a considered aspect, with facilities such as wheelchair spaces and induction loops available in its cinema screens. The bar and restaurant provide a relaxed setting for coffee, drinks, and meals, extending the visitor experience beyond scheduled events.

The programming here is broad, encompassing theatre, live music, comedy, film screenings, and exhibitions. It also hosts a range of lectures, dance performances, and creative learning courses for all ages. The centre is also a recognised venue for major festivals, contributing to the region's cultural calendar.