Preview: Dot To Dot 2024

The sun’s out and exams are (mostly) done. That can only mean one thing: summer. And with summer, comes festivals and we’re pretty spoilt for choice down here in Bristol. But Dot to Dot is always a highlight of the Bristolian musical calendar, showcasing some of the best artists in the country alongside some of the best up-and-coming local bands. It’s an eclectic mix, but one that makes for a day of discovery. So where do we begin?

Well, there’s really only one place to begin, and that’s the end. Jockstrap are bringing their electronic, experimental brilliance to Bristol as they headline O2 academy. I Love You, Jennifer B was perhaps the standout album of 2022. Two years on and we’ve already been blessed with an album of remixes, giving Taylor Skye room to work his magic on what, let’s be honest, were already pretty excellent songs. Dare we expect more? Maybe. Jockstrap are putting themselves about this festival season but Dot To Dot will be the first UK date they’ve played all year, is there new music on its way? Alongside their musical brilliance, they have built up a catalogue of brilliant live performances which will no doubt be on full display. Expect theatrics and some of the most innovative music you’ll hear all year.

As the other headliners, Wunderhorse play their biggest show to date at what promises to be a very busy (and sweaty) SWX. With a new album just announced, now is the time to get on board with their Americana-tinged alt-rock. They’re already indie darlings, but a Fontaines-esque jump into an even bigger form of stardom feels like it could just be around the corner. Expect a packed SWX, a fervorous crowd and a fair few mosh pits. 

Away from the headliners there’s a whole host of talent to be found. Electronic newcomers Ebbb are finally stepping outside London, bringing their ambient inspired electronica to the Dockside stage at Thekla, alongside a few other hotly tipped bands in the form of ‘suburban smart arses’ Welly and Canadian duo Ducks Ltd to name a few. Away from Thekla, which acts as the festival’s de facto hub, two rising stars of the London underground scene, Mary In The Junkyard and Man/Woman/Chainsaw play at SWX and Rough Trade respectively.

There’s electroclash and indie sleaze revivalism in the form of The Dare, who closes out Thekla’s cargo hold, whilst The Fleece, another of Bristol’s iconic venues, sees folk-rock in the form of Eve Appleton band and genre-defying Ugly. If you’re after local talent, you’re not short of options either. Mr Wolf’s is home to some of the best up-and-coming South Western talent, look out for Grack Mack and the Pack, The New Cut and Factor 50, whilst The Lanes sees another load of Bristolian talent descend upon its stage, in particular Sunglasz Vendor and noise-punks Knives. With such a range of artists, across so many different venues, expect new to find new favourites and a few “I was there” moments. 

Who are you most excited to catch at this year's Dot To Dot?