By Gabriel Lordon, Third Year, Philosophy
On 25th November 2025, Strange Brew provided the perfect moody, ambient setting for a masterclass in electronic music as The Sabres of Paradise returned to stage. Reuniting three decades after their heyday and performing in tribute to their late creative lead Andrew Weatherall, it was clear this wasn’t just another nostalgia act, this was something special.
Formed in the early 90s, The Sabres of Paradise became known for blending dub, techno and experimental electronics in a way that ‘influenced countless producers and ravers’ (Headfirst Bristol). Set against Strange Brew’s immersive visuals and intimate concert space, it’s no surprise the show sold out well in advance.
With Weatherall absent, Jagz Kooner and Gary Burns anchored the performance with real passion and intent. Joined by an undoubtedly high pedigree ensemble featuring drummer Rich Thair (Red Snapper), guitarist Phil Mossman (LCD Soundsystem), and bassist Nick Abnett (The Aloof), the group didn’t just play the material, they brought it back to life.
Dressed to impress in 90s gear, they walked out to the eagerly awaiting crowd and opened with ‘Haunted Dancehall’, immediately setting a dark, cinematic tone that pulled us straight in. ‘Tow Truck’ followed, complete with impressive guitar breaks, while ‘Wilmot’ was a personal standout thanks to its dubby basslines that seemed to ripple around the room, the sheer catchiness getting the whole crowd moving.
‘Smokebelch II’ was a perfectly unexpected addition. The Ibiza chill-out classic was something I didn’t know I needed to hear live, capturing the group’s versatility while evoking a bittersweet sense of nostalgia and melancholy.
Momentum didn’t falter from there. The set drifted into more experimental, techno-leaning territory which was slower, heavier, yet nevertheless just as dystopian, before culminating in ‘Still Fighting’. Not only a fitting title given the band’s circumstances, but also a perfect release, snapping the crowd back into motion with its infectious rhythm.
Sean Lawrenson
‘Smokebelch II’s return as an encore provided a much needed victory lap, you got the sense that no one wanted the night to end, perhaps the band included, letting the track roll on for a solid fifteen minutes.
Having first come across The Sabres of Paradise through their presence in TV and film, notably The Real Thing (1996), I couldn’t pass on the opportunity to see what they would cook up in one of Bristol’s most iconic venues. Let’s just say they didn’t disappoint – here’s to hoping their spirit and style never fade.
Featured image: Epigram / Gabriel LordonWho’s a legendary act that you need to see live?
