Bands/Artists
THE BLOCKHEADS
The Sounds Beautiful Festival goes legendary...
A band that hardly needs any introduction ....Starting out as the band behind Ian Dury, The Blockheads are a legendary outfit that has grown in stature from the early days of the Stiff tour in 1977, right up to the present day. Backing up Ian Dury's poetic lyrics, this is the band that brought you 'Hit Me with your Rhythm Stick', 'What A Waste', 'Reasons to be Cheerful (Part 3)', and 'Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll', among many others.
Catch their new single 'Liberty' recorded with Defiance Records who are sponsoring their performance here this year here. Artwork by the amazing Bob Moran.
Soom T
If you haven't heard of Soom T where have you been ?? We are so excited to have her this year. An international music artist and songwriter from Glasgow. Her music is a collection of Soul, Reggae, Gospel and Avant Garde Choral with a strong, spiritual and activist message underpinning her inimitable and diverse vocal capabilities.
A member of a young political crew from her city of Glasgow, struggling to make their city move forward, Soom T finally chose music to be heard. Led by her love of poetry and discovering of Hip-Hop culture, she started writing protest lyrics to denounce social inequalities and shared her daily battles with her own unique flow she is still famous for today. At 21 Soom T was lead singer of Glasgow Hip-Hop band Monkeytribe, before releasing a few Bhangra tracks (Indian popular music) with Europe's leading Bhangra production duo Tigerstyle, and finally discovering Sound System and Reggae culture thanks to different producers such as Bus and The Orb in 2002 to Mungo’s Hi-Fi in 2007. Soom T quickly made a name for herself with her generous music and incisive, inimitable flow being released on over 50 records, indie and commercial releases from 2001 to 2010. She effortlessly developed proficient skills with words whilst preaching sincerity in her philosophical lyrics. She became a genre defining artist of the global underground Reggae music movement, nicknamed the “Raggamuffin Queen”, and performed at some of the world’s biggest and most respected festivals. Though based in Europe, Soom T appearances and guest featurings are frequently requested by some of the most respected and original creators and artists around the world to collaborate on songs. More recently, sharing songs with the likes of Queen Omega, Omar Perry, L’Entourloop, The Movement, La Yegros and Reggae Roast to name a few. An authentic studio addict, Soom T is also a heavyweight MC on stage who will hit the road once again this year with her stage family, The Stone Monks, to perform her vast catalogue including internet hits “Bomb Our Yard”,“Politic Man” and “Far From Home” as well as presenting live her new album “The Louder The Better”, released on October 13, 2023.
Her live concert performances, distinctive voice and image unique to herself and refusing to pander to commercial blueprints centre on empowerment, motivation and uplifting sound wave generation and manipulation utilising the voice, word power, rhythm and melody for inner cosmic tremor inducement to inspire a connection to ones inner self and soul. Her new reggae album “The Louder the Better” is a piece of sunshine, the most positive and uplifting Soom T has ever recorded. If she sticks to her core values denouncing political and social issues with deep lyrics, she also invites us to stay focused on the beautiful and precious things life has to offer, a sentiment emanating throughout sweet pop and reggae melodies with contagious optimism. Music does not get realer than this. Get it now.
Out of Karma
We are extremely proud to announce one of our fantastic headliners...the Leicester band 'Out of Karma' !!!
Together, they are the very talented
singer songwriter Joseph Macwan, Ameer Hosseinbucus on beats, Pascal Pereira on bass and Alexandra Bogle on backing vocals.
Their sound reflects the band’s heritage with sounds and flavours evoking India, Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands and Europe.
Described as a blend of World, Reggae, Jazz and Soul the band's first single "Hero" was well received and appeared on the "Brown Punk" record label created by Tricky of Massive Attack and Chris Blackwell of Palm Pictures/Island Records. Out of Karma were invited as special guests of Jazzie B of Soul II Soul to perform at Victoria Park London in front of 80 000 fans.
The release of "Sliding Souls" in May 2021 reflected on lost times with the worldwide pandemic and ensuing madness of social isolation. The song exposed the band to a wider audience, and became the BBC single of the week later that month.
2023 and 2024 saw the release of new strident material from the band with the songs “Infotainment”, “Riding Time” and “I Walk on Clouds”
Out of Karma has an irresistible groove; Drum, Bass and Rhythm guitar – you can’t help but dance. The insane tone of the soaring vocals hinting at influences ranging from Mohamed Rafi to Bob Marley, from Billie Holiday to Curtis Mayfield.
MALCOLM BRUCE
Malcolm is out with an exciting new trio that takes a deep dive into the free-flowing explorative side of the blues.
Inherited from his legendary father Jack Bruce is the desire to break out of limitations and discover a voice that is unique and true. In a world of conformity music has the ability to awaken potential and be on the cutting edge of possibility. Risk taking, creating in the moment, sharing the experience of transcendence, these are the motivations and urges inherent in the blues when it is allowed to bloom.
With this stellar lineup anything is possible.
featuring
MALCOLM BRUCE / GUITAR and VOICE
Malcolm has worked with many iconic and legendary artists over the years including all 3 original members of Cream, his father's seminal blues rock band that took the world by storm between 1966 and 1968. He has toured all over the world and appeared on many records with a diverse roster of artists.
Recent projects include HEAVENLY CREAM (Quarto Valley Records), An Acoustic Tribute To Cream, released to critical acclaim in November 2023. Produced by Rob Cass and recorded at Abbey Road Studios
Malcolm has also been touring and recording as a member of SONS OF CREAM, his tribute to his father’s band, alongside Ginger Baker’s son Kofi and Ginger’s grand nephew Rob Johnson. The project started as a way to pay homage to the music of the band Cream, and has subsequently evolved into developing original music too.
He is also working on various projects including opera, jazz, and his current solo project FAKE HUMANS, with an album release in the works.
VICTORIOUS
The Brighton based freedom band that never fails to entertain ... VICTORIOUS return to the Sounds Beautiful stage this year to support the Blockheads. Look out for a stage invasion this year... we have a special performance planned for you!!
No freedom Fest would be the same without them and their line up now includes the Fabulous Katy-Jo organiser of Hope sussex Freedom festival. We can't wait!
MATT HOY
Hot on the heels of last year but now as part of our Reggae day Matt Hoy the legendry ex UB40 ( feat Ali Campbell) member returns!! After being unfairly dismissed from the band for not taking the CV due to a health condition , Matt has been at the forefront of the fight for Freedom.
Matt says he has a passion for music, that is the same as his passion for life. His support of our very own We Are Humans Charity shows the true colours of this amazing man whose generosity follows before him wherever he goes.
Live it, Breathe it, Share it, and Love it....
His music would best be described as R&B with a generous splash of Reggae. The world is in need of some up to date old school vibes. Relevant messages, truths, peace and understanding.
Music that comes from a place of sincerity and honesty.
THOMAS ATLAS
We are sooo excited to welcome Thomas Atlas !, a British guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, Thomas has built a dynamic career blending Blues and Funk. After touring the UK and USA with Soul and Blues bands, he gained recognition in 2018 with his *Garage Funk* YouTube videos, leading to performances at top UK venues like Ronnie Scott’s and The 100 Club. In 2021, he released his self-titled debut album, drawing inspiration from Maceo Parker and George Duke. The standout track *Juice* was featured on Spotify’s *All Funked Up* playlist, amassing 400K streams and propelling him into the global spotlight. Since then, Atlas has performed at major festivals, including *The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival* and *Giants of Rock*, alongside sold-out headline shows across the UK. Expanding internationally, he has also played residencies on the Greek island of Rhodes. With an electrifying sound and growing global audience, Atlas continues to make his mark on the music scene.
Raw Milk Conspiracy – born out of protest, bonded in trial – the London four piece bring purpose back to music
with their debut four track EP – Miss Information Whore, released on Monday 27th May 2024 on new freedom label Defiance Records.
Raw Milk Conspiracy are a freedom band, and the material reflects what is happening in London and throughout the west.
https://www.instagram.com/rawmilkconspiracyband?igsh=MWxxZWp3a3hic3UzaQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
https://t.me/rawmilkconversation
MAD MIX AND THE RESISTANCE BAND
This has been one hell of a few years for Michael Immanuel Chaves. From overcoming paraplegia and presenting his conspiracy podcast to becoming one of the UK's most recognisable street protestors to a front man for his band to a headliner of our 2025 festival . We saw Michael singing with the Blockheads in London last year and it firmly established him as an iconic and accomplished bard of the spoken word.
His voice and intriguing poetry can be heard throughout the freedom communities and he deserves a top spot !
Whom by Fire
Whom By Fire are a haunting power duo based in Southend. They combine exquisite harmonies with a talent for poignant writing and a fine musical calibre. Performing with acoustic guitar, bass, synth and vocals Elyza and Dan create a dreamy world of dark romance and longing which stirs the senses and awakens poetic sensibilities. As their name suggests they follow the trails of great bards of the 20th century such as Leonard Cohen but incorporate more modern soundscapes taking from influences as diverse as the cinema of Werner Herzog and the fiery grungy fervour of Kurt Cobain.
Their songs are redemptive and euphoric, performed from a whisper to a roar.
Their latest single, ‘The Truth Hurts’ was released in October 2024.
Outlandish
Sounds Beautiful's very own director Wendy Jane performing with her own band Outlandish!
With a myriad of instruments including harp, flute, harmonium, percussion and bass and guitar they span multi genre and refuse to be put in a a box.
Funk, folk , reggae, rap, prog rock ... they have it all ...and with Kez' amazing guitar skills and Wendy Jane's 'beautiful' ( Martha Tilston) vocals they are sure to bring something for everyone to enjoy ...
StrangeAddiction
... are a London/UK band, comprising of Sönke Prigge Keyboard, Grand Piano, Guitars, Composition, Production & Electronics, and Anna Pearce Vocals, Occasional keyboard, Compositions, Lyrics, and Artwork. Together they are creating original,beautiful, haunting, cinematic, chill out and dance songs & sounds.
They occasionally add amazing guest musicians like violinist , Anne Stephenson, who has played with Massive Attack,The Communards, Marc Almond or award winning bass player Nick Doyne-Ditmas and guitarist, Eli Irvine from King Kurt, amongst others.
Drawing inspiration from such artists as Kate Bush, Massive Attack and Radiohead, they craft their own style of downbeats, electronica, with a classical touch.
Join the Strange Addiction experience and immerse yourself in their dark and beautiful world.
THE MUTINEERS
Emerging from the Leicestershire anti-new normal stronghold that was The Dog & Gun pub in Syston, The Mutineers are a band of rebels and outcasts, blending a raw, high-energy groove rock sound with the hard-hitting spirit of early proto-metal.
Rooted in an anti-establishment ethos, their lyrics confront the rise of corporate greed, government overreach, and the creeping influence of the New World Order, their music is a rallying cry against the forces that seek to control us and strip away individuality.
The Mutineers are at the spearhead of the rebel rock movement, with their heavy, fuzz-drenched guitar tones and thunderous drums, reviving a sound that’s both rooted in the past and pulsing with a fierce, modern electrifying energy.
This Machine Kills Archons
Referenced as psychedelic Beach Boys meets Roxy Music - This Machine Kills Archons have been described as “Bolanesque” and “crooning Beatlesy”. One radio station called it “mellow rock 'n' roll
road music”.
The name ‘This Machine Kills Archons’ is influenced by American folk singer songwriter Woody Guthrie whose social conscience informed his songs about the plight of people during the Great Depression. He would frequently perform with the message, “This machine kills fascists” on his
guitar. The band have upped the ante - the real plight of the people are the Archons.
This Machine Kills Archons started playing and putting out music in 2020 - created as the moniker of singer/songwriter R.P. Warrington.
The band have released 3 EP’s – most recently ‘Stir Up The Water’
‘Stir Up The Water’ features keyboardist Gonzalo Carrera – best known as a former member of the British rock bands Landmarq and Karnataka. He has also worked with former members of Hawkwind, Jethro Tull, Yes, Supertramp and ELO. Bob Loveday also plays on the track ‘Feel The Truth’ - a multi- instrumentalist who has played with Van Morrison and Jeff Beck.
The song Spiritual Wars is also featured on the EP
The Lookout
Back from last year and familiar faces on the freedom scene The Lookout are always sure to entertain.
A blend of melodic storytelling folk and old skool reggae rhythms lends The Lookout a light tough to deliver a heavy blow. A laid-back ensemble from Gloucestershire, The Lookout is a critical thinking musical outpost, sharing learnings from life and the universe through gentle music and loving song.
Trevor John
The career path of wordsmith and singer songwriter Trevor John has taken many twists and turns. He has had a shop on Carnaby Street, a publishing company, worked as a copywriter, voice artist, animator and is an award winning short film composer.
As an illustrator he has worked for many major publishers and brands including BBC, Saachi & Saachi and Sainsburys. His drawings for M&S Nightwear outsold Disney and made it onto Eastenders. After a few years working with Kraft and Aardman creating the Dairylea Cow, the corporate world was losing its appeal and he took a sabbatical, picked up his neglected guitar and spent two years in his garden learning every song he ever loved, found a beautifully eccentric Irish diva of a vocal coach and began performing as a singer songwriter. His work can be raw and emotional or sharp and satirical. Sometimes both. His love of words is always evident.
The last few years, with the eye opening revelations of the hypnotism we have all been living through, have provided plenty of material. It’s still a journey. Sometimes angry and political, but increasingly towards connection, healing, nature and the spiritual
ANANTA KERNEL
Ananta Kernel is back! He was our MC for Slipmatt last year and is recognised as an MC who is willing to resist & change the status quo.
With fierce lyrics pertaining to the illicit nature of global affairs that often go unchallenged, Kernel feels a responsibility to expose & hold accountable those who create systemic imbalance & detrimental conditions for humanity. In his music he always finds a way to highlight the problems & present solutions
The Golden Gateway is Ananta's latest EP. The Golden Gateway available to each and every one of us.
A gateway to the experience of self realisation, enlightenment and nirvana that can be accessed by embracing our trauma and shadow selves and alchemising it through conscious choice, willpower and positive intention.
The message is strong.
Our individual and collective spiritual ascension takes place and is accelerated when we transcend our ego mind, the projections it makes that we are separate, and when we take responsibility for healing our wounds and traumas.
There is unprecedented power in standing in the light of the divine truth that we are and facing our darkest shadows and demons, and alchemising them through the eternal and unwavering unconditional love of the creator that resides with our own hearts.
Peter Trott
Peter Trott is a vocal pianist from Kent that covers the very best classic rock and pop hits from the past 7 decades in his own inimitable style in 432hz.
He has built up a huge repertoire of popular music from the sixties through to present, including The Beatles, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Queen, Fleetwood Mac, ELO, Supertramp, The Police, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, Robbie Williams and The Kings of Leon. These are just a few examples of a diverse range of artists that Peter covers.
We saw Peter at Hope Sussex festival and were blown away ...
INDIGO VEIL
Sometime around 1962 Gustav Clarkson saw the Beatles playing 'Love Me Do' on top of the pops. Upon finding her son listening to such ghastly modern music or 'jazz music' as she labelled anything outside of her classical interests, his mother quickly turned off the TV and made sure that her sons' Viola practise was no longer tarnished with such 'worldly concerns'.
Fast forward to 2007 and a 17 year old Orlando Clarkson quietly began playing bass guitar in an alternative rock group, making sure not to tell his Viola playing father. 10 year later, after having played bass and singing in bands with influences ranging from hard rock to Chet baker jazz, Orlando finally began his own project.
Finding his fellow musicians busy with other projects, Orlando began fulfilling all the roles of a traditional band himself. Through the challenge of being a bassist, guitarist and singer all at once. Now you will find him playing with Raw Milk Conspiracy. Orlando is a master at stepping in when Musicians fail to show..his talent knows no bounds.
Orlando is a huge part of Resistance GB news and a spokesperson for the freedom movement with much to say ... we are delighted to have him solo too.
BEN WHITE
Ben White ...a familiar figure at our beloved freedom festivals. His boundless energy and dance moves are infectious and lift those around him. His Frank Sinatra- esqe vocals can wrap around any cover and he delivers them with style.
Just as at home singing for Festival Crowds as he is in Care Homes, Ben is all about performing his best and we are delighted to have him back !
BABA RAI
"I play music to make my life better, lighter, happier. Sing- and dance-along-vibes, is what i am aiming for in my quest for the magic sound, that grabs people by their souls and feet - music, simple enough to access and at the same time hard to ignore.“
The Music of Baba Rai can be described as a World Pop Mix featuring elements from Rock, Blues, Country and Reggae on a profound basis: his message of compassion, joy, unity and peace. Baba Rai‘s lyrics in english, german and bavarian are soothing, consoling, encouraging or uplifting reminders.
Over twenty years of touring and travelling on three continents, working as a professional on stage and in the studio with bands and artists like Depedro (Madrid), Meena and the Chris Fillmore Band (Vienna), Gareth Icke (Derby), The Fuzztones (New York), Die fantastischen 4 (Berlin), Larry Mullins (Iggy and the Stooges, Iggy Pop, The Residents, Nick Cave), Jim Fairchild (Grandaddy, Modest Kontakt: info@babarai.net 0049 177 8217579 Mouse), Martin Wenk (Calexico, Nada Surf, Depedro), Jochen Arbeit (Einstürzende Neubauten) and Noa Winter Lazerus (Engineer for Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd, Stevie Wonder etc.), just to name a few, has above all expanded his awareness for brand new perspectives as well as for personal and artistic growth.
His first full length album in English entitled "For the best" is in the making and will be released in 2026.
Ceejay is a unique force of nature and definitely turns heads with his catchy hooks and infectious energy.
His writing style, which has been branded as punky urban folk, takes
influence from The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Eminem, Jack white and Bob
Marley.
From growing up in Scotland with disability and trauma, surrounded by
addiction and hardship, he tells tales of his experiences and his
frustration with the trippy world around him. He has a truly unique story to tell and has had one hell of a crazy life to date.