Gong is a progressive rock band formed in 1967 by Australian musician Daevid Allen. Known for its fusion of psychedelic rock, space jazz, and whimsical storytelling, Gong created a mythological universe centered around characters like Zero the Hero and the Planet Gong. Their classic era in the 1970s produced influential albums such as Camembert Electrique and the Radio Gnome Invisible trilogy. Despite Allen’s passing in 2015, Gong continues today with a new lineup led by guitarist Kavus Torabi. The present-day band honors Gong’s legacy while infusing it with a modern psychedelic and experimental edge, attracting a new generation of fans.

Formed in 1979 by Gary Daly and Eddie Lundon in Liverpool, China Crisis achieved significant success in the 1980s. Known for their smooth, melodic sound blending synth-pop and new wave, they gained popularity with hits like "Wishful Thinking," "Black Man Ray," and "King in a Catholic Style." Their third album, "Flaunt the Imperfection" (1985), produced by Steely Dan's Walter Becker, was critically acclaimed and commercially successful. The band's thoughtful lyrics and lush arrangements set them apart, making them a distinctive presence in the 80s music scene. Despite changes in line-up, China Crisis continues to perform and record.

Over recent years, The Sherlocks have become one of the most exciting live bands in the UK. Selling out tours across the UK & Europe, Yorkshire brothers Kiaran & Brandon Crook, joined by Alex Procter & Trent Jackson, have built an incredibly passionate and loyal fan base, following them from the pubs and clubs to sold-out venues worldwide. They’ve shared arena and stadium stages with the likes of Kings of Leon, Keane, Kaiser Chiefs, The Libertines, Liam Gallagher, and many more. With another hit album under their belt, the future looks brighter than ever for this true rock ’n’ roll outfit.

Tap into a rare groove as the UK dance scene pioneer and Notting Hill Carnival legend come to the venue this Christmas and plays tracks that shaped UK music. One of the most respected DJs in the world today, Jay is a hallowed name in the UK dance music scene. As the co-founder of dance music station KISS FM and the iconic Good Times sound system, and the driving force behind the rare groove scene of the 1990s, Jay’s four-decade career has seen him continuously pushing the boundaries of the UK’s club culture.

After years of spinning the wheels of the Good Times Fun Bus at Notting Hill Carnival, his signature sounds are transported to the decks of the Royal Festival Hall for a legendary Good Times party. Spinning tunes that span multiple genres and cultures, with exciting new sounds alongside the iconic beats that made these artists legends, this electrifying event is a chance to see a lineup of UK musical icons on one stage, and promises serious Good Times all round.

Lets get ready to rock and celebrate Mötley Crüe

Mötley Crüe, formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, is an iconic heavy metal band known for their hedonistic lifestyle, theatrical live performances, and wild antics. The band consists of Vince Neil (vocals), Nikki Sixx (bass), Mick Mars (guitar), and Tommy Lee (drums). Their debut album, "Too Fast for Love" (1981), and "Shout at the Devil" (1983) propelled them to fame. Key moments include the 1989 release of "Dr. Feelgood," their most commercially successful album, and the tumultuous periods of addiction and legal troubles. Their 2019 biographical film, "The Dirt," and numerous farewell and reunion tours cemented their legendary status.

FFO Gun N Roses, Aerosmith, Skid Row, The Darkness

Word - a spoken word night at The Boileroom. An open forum for poetry, prose, and spoken word performance - from Shakespearian sonnets to journal scribbles and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or sharing your words for the first time, come along, take the mic, and be part of Guildford’s growing spoken word community!

This event’s headliner is Tyrone Lewis - award-winning poet, performer, and host, known for his dynamic delivery and powerful writing. A UK Poetry Slam Champion, Roundhouse Slam Champion, and author, Tyrone has been a driving force in the UK spoken word scene, working with major national poetry events and UniSlam since 2016.

Guildford-based alternative rock five-piece Aqualine are setting off for their first UK tour in support of their new EP, Tripwire. Fusing post-punk aggression, grunge, ethereal shoegaze with bold experimental flourishes, the band explores themes of mental stability, disassociation, and self-identity in young adulthood. Tripwire is a raw and emotionally charged collection that captures the chaos of intrusive thoughts and the quiet weight of imposter syndrome, all set against a dynamically enraged sonic backdrop.

Support from: Canned Pineapple and Die Twice

The Commoners are a band in the midst of another banner year with the release of their highly anticipated album, Restless (Gypsy Soul Records, 2024). Returning with ten tracks that grip and groove, the quintet continue to provide listeners with a hearty dose of Southern-style swagger with every guitar slide, organ swell, and vocal stamp.

Riding high off the strength of their previous release, Find A Better Way, the last two years have been a whirlwind for the band. From a UK tour with Grammy-nominated duo Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton in the fall of 2023, to numerous headline dates across Europe and Britain this year, The Commoners have earned their status as a must-see act and are “definitely a band to watch out for in the future” (CGCM Radio Glasgow).

Possessing a sound tapped from the oaken belly of a whiskey barrel, The Commoners are a five-piece Roots/Rock outfit from Toronto, Canada. Offering their own blend of a tried and true musical mixture, the group pepper their sound with high-energy riffs, soulful vocals, and rich harmonies that combine to take the listener on a journey through a Southern-style rock experience.

Local band Bryony Dunn & The Forest are home for Christmas, with their first headline show in Guildford since Bryony and Jake played as The Choco La's in 2022. The Christmas party is a fundraiser for their upcoming recording and will have all the hallmarks of a local town Christmas concert with raffles, catching up with familiar faces and maybe even some carol singing!! Bryony Dunn & The Forest are a band worth attention, making music that continues the rich tradition of British folk songs while also tapping in to harmony-rich, country sounds of the unassailable Laurel Canyon scene of the 60s and 70s.

Fronted by Leith Hill born sisters Bryony and Gina Dunn, alongside Jake Andrews (guitar, Vinyl Staircase/The Choco La's/Deluxe Deluxe), Emma Taylor (drums) and Cat Lawler (bass), Bryony Dunn & The Forest have built a powerful live presence over the past few years, playing festivals most weekends this summer and recently selling out The Lexington in London.

Inspired by the natural world and mythology, their music provides them an escape from the cityscape of their everyday lives. Taking the listener on something of a journey, the band liken their songs to a river that “flows over rocky friendships and cascades into pools of love before eddying at the anxieties of modern life.”

In line for a big 2026, they’ve signed to Dalliance Recordings (lilo, Francis of Delirium, Gia Margaret, Rowena Wise) for their EP, Soft As Ash (October 24th).

Fronted by Leith Hill born sisters Bryony and Gina Dunn, alongside Jake Andrews (guitar, Vinyl Staircase/The Choco La's/Deluxe Deluxe), Emma Taylor (drums) and Cat Lawler (bass), Bryony Dunn & The Forest have built a powerful live presence over the past few years, playing festivals most weekends this summer and recently selling out The Lexington in London.

Inspired by the natural world and mythology, their music provides them an escape from the cityscape of their everyday lives. Taking the listener on something of a journey, the band liken their songs to a river that “flows over rocky friendships and cascades into pools of love before eddying at the anxieties of modern life.”

In line for a big 2026, they’ve signed to Dalliance Recordings (lilo, Francis of Delirium, Gia Margaret, Rowena Wise) for their EP, Soft As Ash (October 24th).

The Boileroom proudly welcomes back Faux Fighters, a celebration of Foo Fighters.

Foo Fighters, formed in 1994 by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, have become one of rock’s most enduring and influential bands. Known for their explosive energy, soaring anthems, and heartfelt lyrics, the group blends hard-hitting riffs with stadium-ready choruses. Over nearly three decades, they’ve delivered countless modern rock staples, from “Everlong” to “The Pretender,” earning Grammy Awards and global acclaim. Beyond their music, Foo Fighters are celebrated for their relentless touring, playful spirit, and resilience in the face of tragedy. With Grohl’s charisma at the helm, they’ve cemented their legacy as both a powerhouse and a unifying force in rock.

The story of how Hot Face’s ‘Automated Response’ came to be, starts at Left Of The Dial festival in Rotterdam. After a chaotic midnight headline show, producer Dan Carey (Speedy Wundergrund) and the band renewed their vows to record an album. The premise was simple - the album was to be captured over the course of one day in 3 takes straight to tape, with the last unfolding in front of a live audience.

A short while later, after yet another show, on a cold London night, Hot Face received a call from Dan in the early hours of the morning. Cramming themselves into the green room toilet to escape the noise, the band were offered the chance to record the album at Abbey Road Studios, the very next week. While a daunting and somewhat insane proposal, the band accepted and on 22nd November 2024 Hot Face entered Studio 3 at Abbey Road. The following 25 minutes is the result of that day. A raucous ode to live music, blemishes and all. Within these songs, Hot Face (alongside Dan Carey manipulating the bands sonic mayhem live alongside them) bring their feverish live performance to you. Committed to tape and mixed by Dan Carey for your pleasure.

M/X is a young, three-piece punk rock powerhouse known for their raw energy and chaotic live shows. Hailing from Bristol, England, the band’s visceral sound draws comparisons to the likes of IDLES, Soft Play and Kid Kapichi, with trashy rhythms, angsty guitars and socially charged lyrics that hit like a punch in the gut. Their explosive performances have landed them spots at festivals like 2000 Trees and Dot To Dot, as well as stages at iconic Bristol venues like Thekla and The Louisiana. With relentless drive and a DIY ethos, M/X is gearing up for a huge 2025. Their debut EP promises a visceral soundtrack to the chaos of modern life, offering a cathartic release in a world that rarely pauses to breathe. Whether on stage or in the studio, M/X promises to keep pushing boundaries and riling up crowds wherever they go next.

When the late, great Phil May of The Pretty Things (cited as a major influence by both David Bowie and Jimmy Hendrix) began curating songs for what would become the band’s final studio album, amongst covers of songs by Muddy Waters, Sheryl Crow and Robert Johnson, May included a song by British singer-songwriter Will Varley. In becoming an 

avid fan of the troubadour from Kent he joined an army of followers that has been growing steadily across the globe for last ten years and includes the likes of Billy Bragg, Skin from Skunk Anansie and Adam Duritz from Counting Crows, all of whom consider Will to be one of the best songwriters of his generation.

In recent years Will has become a regular collaborator in the writing rooms of Nashville and Los Angeles, co-writing songs with Grammy award winning and AMA winning artists from the heart of the country music world.

There is a sheer depth to Will’s writing that sets him apart, and has propelled his music far and wide. From the Dylanesque, post-apocalyptic dystopia of 2021's "Dreamland" to the captivating and ambitious "Weddings and Wars," in which he endeavours to compress the entire history of the world into four minutes, Varley’s songs seem to transcend themselves, marrying vivid imagery, emotion and surrealism to capture his musings in a way that is quite remarkable.

The stage has been Varley's constant companion, from the open mics of south London to Shepherds Bush Empire and The Albert Hall. Over the years he has toured relentlessly, selling out shows across Europe and America, and opening for Frank Turner, Valerie June and The Proclaimers. Further high praise from the likes of Tim Minchin, Donovan, and Adam Duritz of Counting Crows have helped fan the flames, as his audience continues to grow both on the road and online. His music videos have clocked up millions of views on YouTube and his catalogue of recorded albums has surpassed a staggering 30,000,000 streams on Spotify alone.

Will's 7th studio album 'Machines Will Never Learn to Make Mistakes Like Me' came out in May 2025 on the MNRK label, who over the years have been home to Chuck Berry, Townes Van Zandt and The Lumineers. Featuring guest vocals from Billy Bragg and Dan Smith from Bastille, the album was released to rave reviews from the likes of Classic Rock and Rolling Stone Magazine. The album reached number 4 in the official UK Americana charts and received airplay on BBC 6 Music and Channel 4.

At 17, City Dog quickly made a name for themselves in the south-east music scene, becoming known for “turning a mosh pit into an absolute frenzy” at their own sold-out shows. By 18, they had already shared stages with legendary acts like Buzzcocks, Bob Vylan, and The Wytches, and joined Surfbort on their European tour.

Upon returning, City Dog released a string of new tracks, collaborating with artists like acclaimed rapper SBK and Dominic Keen of Death In Vegas. In 2023, they dropped their single “A Circus” via Small Pond Label, and in 2024, they released their debut EP, followed by a hugely successful UK headline tour and sold-out European dates. They finished 2024 with an endorsement from Gibson and over 50 shows played in just a single year.

2025 has already had these dogs on all fours dropping heavy-hitter “Dirt And Bricks” in January. Before hitting the road sea and sky, for Europe festivals and UK tours, City Dog’s have been pilling up new releases ready to unleash with the right team to bring their punk brutality to an audience world wide.

Papa Jupe’s T.C. drench post-punk in sleazy surf rock. Their sharp-witted and surreal lyrics lampoon masculinity, politics, and power. 

Papa Jupe’s T.C. have earned a reputation for thrilling live performances with a string of sold-out headline shows. The band supported Mercury Prize winners ‘English Teacher’ on their 2023 UK Tour, and headlined Rebel Fest.  Following a run of standalone singles, the band released their acclaimed debut EP “Wetmarket” in June 2023. 

The band’s second EP, “Jupe in the Flesh” will be released January 2025, with lead singles “High Value Male” and “Milgi” earning radio play across Europe and the US, and a world premiere from Amy Lamé on BBC Radio 6 Music, who said, “I loved everything about this band”. The singles were featured in DIY Magazine’s coveted “Neu Playlist” and landed print press features in Radar Magazine and Cardiff Life. 

The 6-piece band was founded in Cardiff, Wales by frontman and lyricist Harry Willicombe, guitarist Sam Butcher and bassist Alex Miller. Ash Smith’s drumming, Tom Emlyn’s synth work, and Nashville-import Gemini Anderson’s joyous vocals have helped cement Papa Jupe’s T.C. as a unique voice in the Cardiff music scene.

FFO Sports Team, English Teacher 

Leeroy Thornhill is a British electronic musician, DJ, and producer best known as a founding member of The Prodigy from 1990 to 2000. He contributed to the band’s early rave identity and appeared on landmark albums like Experience and Music for the Jilted Generation. After leaving The Prodigy, Thornhill pursued solo projects under aliases such as Flightcrank, blending breakbeat, electro, and hip-hop influences. In recent years, he has built a respected reputation as a DJ, performing globally with high-energy sets featuring classic breaks, old-school rave, and modern bass music.

The Manchester, UK trio – vocalist Josh Taylor, drummer Jack Kennedy and guitarist Zack Breen - create from a place of undistilled, unadulterated intention. They write constantly, compelled to chase the ideas forming in their heads without deadlines hanging over them, just because they love it. Crucially, those songs all form the building blocks for their supercharged live shows, the environment where they feel like they blossom into their truest, best selves. 

THE HARA's dauntless new chapter is the most self-assured they've ever been. Despite the pressure, toxicity and self-doubt fired at them from all angles, they've used the pressure to create diamonds. Most importantly, through all of this, they've metamorphosed into the greatest version of themselves yet, both in the studio and in their supercharged live shows.

 Their journey has been one of finding themselves and it’s a road that’s taken them through 2023’s debut album Survival Mode and a string of EP’s to reach this moment on The Fallout.  "This album is probably the purest, rawest version of us," asserts Josh. "Musically, lyrically, everything feels the most authentic we've been. This is really who we are.

Eat Static, formed in 1989 by former Ozric Tentacles members Merv Pepler and Joie Hinton, are pioneers of the UK’s underground electronic scene. Known for fusing trance, techno, and psychedelic influences, the duo carved out a niche with their science fiction-inspired aesthetic and experimental live shows. Eschewing guitars for sequencers and samplers, they embraced early rave culture while retaining a progressive rock sensibility. Their debut Abduction (1993) cemented their reputation, and subsequent releases pushed boundaries with genre-blurring soundscapes. Even after Hinton’s departure in 2008, Pepler has kept Eat Static alive, touring and releasing forward-looking, extraterrestrial-inspired electronic music.

Bristol-born DJ and producer Roni Size is a true pioneer of the drum and bass movement, fusing rapid-fire breakbeats with deep, melodic basslines and jazzy textures. Rising to fame in the mid-’90s with his groundbreaking collective Reprazent, Size reshaped electronic music with their Mercury Prize–winning album New Forms — a record that brought underground jungle to the global stage. Known for his dynamic live performances and innovative production style, Roni Size blends analog warmth with digital precision, crafting music that’s both cerebral and dancefloor-driven. Decades on, he remains a cornerstone of UK bass culture, constantly pushing rhythmic boundaries.

Noble Jacks, with the fiddle leading the charge, deliver high-energy footstompin’ rhythms that captivate audiences across the UK and beyond. Nominated Live Act of the Year 2023 by Americana Music Association UK, they’re hailed as top purveyors of folk-influenced Americana.

Noble Jacks’ debut album What the Hammer released to much acclaim. A fiddle-driven thrill ride, the band set out to capture the raw energy of their notoriously hectic live shows. Achieving radio play internationally, including support from BBC Introducing and Radio Caroline, the riotous album has become a firm fan favourite.

Since this point Noble Jacks have been touring relentlessly, with sold out shows across the UK on their headline tours, as well as shows at major festivals including Glastonbury, Isle of Wight and Bestival, plus major European festivals. Noble Jacks exploded into 2022 with the release of their much anticipated new (3rd) studio album, Last Of The Wild, celebrating with a UK & European Spring tour as the band welcomed back live shows. Last Of The Wild charted straight into the Top 40 Official Americana Album Chart and the first single from the album, ‘Never Been Here Before’ went down a storm: “Love this song, Noble Jacks build their unique British sensibility on a foundation of bluegrass and roots creating a sound all their own” – Baylen Leonard, Absolute Radio Country.

Look out as Noble Jacks put on the liveliest show around.

Catch a one of a kind tribute like no other - the music of legendary punk-rock icons Rage Against The Machine, reimagined in the most brilliantly chaotic way possible; fronted by a Nicolas Cage impersonator. This band delivers all the attitude, energy, and absurd fun you’d expect. Complete with movie-inspired props, costumes, and a wild stage presence!

Welcoming back to The Boileroom our favourites, The Blockheads

Formed in London in 1977 to promote Ian Dury’s album New Boots and Panties!!, The Blockheads quickly became icons of the UK new wave scene, fusing punk, funk, disco and wordplay with hits like “What a Waste”, “Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick” and “Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3”.
Despite Dury’s death in 2000, the band have carried on—touring, releasing new material and keeping that sharp, witty spirit alive with successive line-ups. In 2026, they celebrate their 50th anniversary—a golden milestone marking half a century of boundary-pushing music, unforgettable lyrics, and a legacy that still resonates.

As a band, The Smiths need no introduction. Formed in 1982 and disbanded in 1987, all five of their studio albums reached the top five in the UK charts. They are widely lauded as one of the most influential bands of all time. 

To celebrate the publication of his memoir detailing these years, drummer Mike Joyce will be heading out this November for a series of special events, to share an open-hearted story of what it was like to play the drums in The Smiths. 

About the author Mike Joyce is an esteemed English drummer who has played with Sinead O’Connor, Public Image Ltd, Buzzcocks, Suede, Julian Cope, Pete Wylie and most recently has been occupying the drum seat with Peter Doherty, as well as being a member of The Smiths for the entire duration of the lifetime of the band. Mike also has a successful DJ career playing clubs worldwide. 

Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, is a lyrical powerhouse who transformed hip-hop with raw honesty and razor-sharp wordplay. Rising from Detroit’s struggles, he broke barriers with his alter ego Slim Shady, blending dark humor, emotional depth, and ferocious delivery. His storytelling dives into pain, triumph, and rebellion, making him both controversial and iconic. With hits like Lose Yourself and Stan, he became a global voice for resilience and authenticity. Eminem’s speed, precision, and unapologetic truth cement him as one of rap’s greatest innovators—an unstoppable force who turned personal battles into anthems that ignite millions worldwide.