Slap bang in the middle of their UK tour promoting their latest single ‘Mr Blue’, Spill stopped in Brighton to headline Hope and Ruin alongside Brighton’s Divorce Attorney and Torus from Milton Keynes, and the second Spill hit the stage it was clear that the crowd was ready for the psychedelic metal grunge hybrid the band has become known for.
Having seen Spill play many Brighton shows over the last year (their headline in Dust a particular highlight), it’s so clear to see their strength and progression from being a band that already put on a spectacularly tight and dynamic show, and this gig blew the doors off any previous perception of the band.
From their driving rhythm session of drummer Tom Williams and bassist Alain de Gouveia, Spill commanded the audience, highlighting lead singer Sophie Cawtheray’s vocals in the quieter moments equally.
de Gouveia’s bass tone – the best in Brighton? Go on. Argue with it – serves the kind of music Spill make excellently, balancing their more heavy influences with the psychedelic riffs of guitarists Kieran King and Charly Turpin.
While every member has their moment to shine in their setlist, lead vocalist Soph Cawtheray’s vocals were stronger than ever before at Hope and Ruin, leaning into the gravelly belt she uses oh so sparingly alongside the powerfully soft and subdued vocal melodies she has become so known for in the Brighton scene.
Spill has proven time and time again that they’re a band with serious potential and a strong sense of identity. Their journey on the Mr Blue tour seems to have done nothing but strengthen the already solid base they’ve built for themselves in Brighton and I can’t wait to see where they go from here.
Brighton’s live music scene is one of if not the most exciting parts of living in the city, with a myriad of live music venues to choose from and a wide variety of genres explored by local bands. With so much on, it can be hard to tell what bands should be on your radar. What you need is a guiding hand… Fortunately, The Whistler’s Music Editor is here to shine a light
10. Fire Escape
I first caught Fire Escape back in January and recently caught up with them at their show supporting Lifts. The difference is night and day between January and now as the Brighton-based 5-piece has really tightened up their sound over the last year. Their shows are vibrant and energetic, blending a variety of influences to result in a post-punk meets performance art set that really distinguishes them from other bands in the Brighton scene. (Photo by @moonrockmgmt)
9. Kocapoli
With their angelic harmonies and their driving bassline alongside guitarist Billy Twamley’s blues rock riffs, this band feels like Fleetwood Mac meets The Doors. I first saw them play at Rossi Bar during the tail end of Summer and haven’t been able to get enough since. If you like powerful instrumentals and sultry vocals in equal measure than this is definitely a band you’ll want to see! (Photo by @Flyhighmedia_)
8. ism
I had no idea what to expect when I saw Ism(stylised ‘ism’) play Daltons back in October, and this kind of curiosity is exactly what seems to fuel the band and their eclectic performances. From their decision to assign themes to every gig they play, to the way in which lead singer Tyra Kristoffersen teases the audience during the set, this band is a surefire way to enjoy your evening. (Photo Shot by the band and @__pmw_)
7. Will E. Blay’s Horrible Lot
No words can really do justice to the vibe the Horrible Lot bring to their shows. An equal mixture of Irony and pure funkadelic talent. Frontman Will E. Blay’s energy on stage is infectious and the characterization he and the rest of the Horrible Lot lean into while performing on stage is a load of fun to watch. From fantastic music to an entertaining performance, The Horrible Lot certainly has it all. (Photo by @moonrockmgmt)
6. Bones Ate Arfa
The self proclaimed “Junkyard Dogs” of Brighton, Bones Ate Arfa has been making waves in the Brighton live music scene all year. Their latest EP release Akimbo People serves as a concise and emblematic release for the band. If you’re looking for heavy basslines and a punk rock energy then you are in luck! (Photo by @_beccaconn_)
5. Leibniz
After the release of their new EP Lifetime Patient, Leibniz has been a force to reckon with. Their shows are moody and cathartic, with a set that swells until you almost can’t bare anymore just to hit you with a sensational wave of release. I personally think this band is one of the strongest playing in the Brighton scene at the moment and I cannot wait to see what they do next. (Photo by @_redinfocus)
4. Fever Rouge
Fever Rouge are rapidly reaching Local Legends status within the Brighton music scene. From a well recieved tour to their phenomenal music video release for ‘The Buzz’ (shot by Cavey) this band is reaching new heights every time I see them. I last caught their live set supporting Die Twice at the Hope and Ruin and man, do these guys put on a show. Tracks like ‘Weatherman’ and ‘Feed the Villain bring such a palpable psychedelic rock meets King Krule energy that really sets them apart from modern rock bands. (Photo by @tale.pho)
3. Lana Death Ray
As a massive fan of the grunge and shoegaze music from the 90s, Lana Death Ray is a dream to watch on stage. Frontman Beau Jackson’s dynamic vocal range coupled with their driving rhythm section makes for a new take on the band’s 90s influences. And rumour has it, they’ve got an EP in the works for the new year! (Photo by Fynn Moran Media)
2. Slag
Slag has rapidly taken over my Spotify ever since I saw them play Daltons in early October. Their debut single Ripped is punchy and dynamic, and the way in which the band plays into the lilt of their lead singer’s voice alongside their incisive instrumentals. This band (along with Number One on our list) is really THE band to watch in 2025. (Photo by @ellatibbett)
1. Spill
It’s no secret that Spill is one of the strongest bands in Brighton at the moment. Their rich sound is meticulously crafted and their stage shows are filled to the brim with raw and electric talent. Spill has had a big year and it looks like 2025 will be starting off with a bang as they launch into their first tour to support their upcoming single release ‘Mr Blue’. Not a moment of their set is wasted as they pack their shows full of profound and cynical lyricism, overdriven yet melodic guitar riffs and the meanest bass tone Brighton has to offer. (Photo by @Caveyslife)
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