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Steve Miles releases his second album as European Sun, accompanied by Ian Button (drums), Rob Pursey (bass) and Elin Miles (additional vocals). Tonight, it's the launch gig.
If one LP could act as a refutation of the toxic culture of ?masculine energy? and the tech bro-sponsored whipping up of hatred that blights our lives - this is it.
It is true of the lyrics. Nostalgia for an imagined past where men were men, and racism was de rigeur is eviscerated in title track When Britain Was Great. Fetishisation of a World War by patriots who are too pumped up to realise the war was a fight against Nazism is picked apart in Angels In The Clouds. And the clumsy, half-arsed struggle to seek something better, to try to escape the trap of cynical acceptance of it all, is sardonically observed in the comically accident-prone Falling Down The Stairs With Arthur Seaton. All this is interspersed with deeply personal tracks like The Space She Left, unflinchingly exposing emotional vulnerability and anxiety, and with carefree pop songs, still able to access the wide-eyed wisdom of childhood: The Sea Is A Pirate?s Best Friend expresses a kind of joy that we all had once, but have lost contact with.
The music is a refutation of ?masculine energy? too: it is utterly devoid of that grim modern male quality ?swagger?. Sometimes echoing the casual, intimate, fragile tones of the TV Personalities, the songs are bluntly emotional but shamelessly catchy. On other occasions - louder occasions - the echo of an angry Wreckless Eric riff can be heard. The warmth and gentleness of the vocal might remind you of Jonathan Richman. The experimentation - the brass section, the feedback, the occasional reggae rhythm ? is reminiscent of the earliest, fearless phase of punk adventurism ? The Slits, The Mekons, The Desperate Bicycles even. Punk before it regressed to Rock. This hand-made music is the opposite of AI-generated crud. Every bit of it, even the chaotic bits ? especially the chaotic bits - are deliberate and meticulously thought through.
Special Guests - BUSH & FEY
Steve Bush and Fran Fey, have been writing, recording and gigging together for nearly two decades.. Their first album, ?Row of Ashes', was released in November 2008, with the follow up, ?Earl Grey and Leather" in November 2016., and third , "World of Look" in 2023. Their, vinyl only, "Best Of" was released earlier this year.
Steve Bush first stepped out in Bristol with Essential Bop - one of the city?s seminal new wave bands. His reputation for intense stage performances and acerbic lyrics has not diminished since. In 2001, after many years in London, Steve ? having just returned to Bristol - released the acclaimed ?Blossom Freak? album. Fran hails from Wales. Proficient on guitar, mandolin, zither and ukulele, Fran has played all over the world, including jamming with Arab Musicians in Kuwait and playing echoing space music atop the Himalayas.
The Thunderbolt stands as a significant independent music and arts venue within Bristol's vibrant cultural landscape. Occupying a meticulously restored Grade II listed tollhouse from the 1830s, it has cultivated a reputation as a vital circuit venue, drawing both emerging local talent and established touring acts to its intimate stage. More than a commercial enterprise, it functions as a consistent anchor for live performance in the Totterdown area, contributing meaningfully to the city's artistic fabric.
Within its historic walls, a palpable energy often hums, a blend of anticipation and camaraderie. The low lighting casts a warm, inviting glow across the room, illuminating the worn wooden bar and the faces of patrons gathered for a shared experience. The air frequently carries the distinct scent of hops and malt from the well-kept ales, mingling with the lingering echoes of amplified sound. This creates an atmosphere that is both focused on the stage and conducive to relaxed social interaction.
Beyond the main performance space, a substantial rear garden offers a welcome respite, particularly during warmer months. The venue is readily accessible, situated conveniently close to Bristol Temple Meads station and served by local bus routes along Bath Road. A considered selection of real ales, ciders, and wines is always available, catering to diverse preferences.
Throughout the week, The Thunderbolt hosts a diverse programme of events. Audiences can expect evenings dedicated to various musical genres, from indie and folk to punk and blues, alongside spoken word performances, comedy showcases, and occasional film screenings. The venue consistently provides a platform for both established and developing artists, ensuring a dynamic and engaging schedule for its dedicated following.
124 Bath Road,
Totterdown,
Bristol,
England,
BS4 3ED.
Sorry, This Event is in the past!
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