Young musicians steal the show as Performers Theatre Company delivers a fantastic production of School of Rock at Park Community School Theatre.

By Scenic Eye | Theatre & Live Entertainment Review

Who needs the West End when Havant has this much talent right on its doorstep?

Performers Theatre Company brought School of Rock The Musical to Park Community School Theatre in Havant from 29 to 31 October 2026, delivering a fantastic mix of rock music, comedy, infectious energy and some remarkable young talent.

I attended Saturday morning's performance and came away genuinely impressed by the standard of this local production.

Based on the much loved film starring Jack Black, the musical follows Dewey Finn, a struggling musician who poses as a substitute teacher and discovers his pupils have extraordinary musical abilities. Before long, he has transformed his classroom into a rock band, secretly preparing them for the Battle of the Bands.

Beneath the rebellious humour and powerful rock music is a touching story about friendship, confidence and encouraging young people to discover their talents.

And that is exactly what made this production so special.

Young Talent & Rock Music Take Centre Stage

Jaxson, playing Freddy Hamilton, was an absolute joy to watch.

He brought some wonderful humour to the stage, with cheeky expressions, confident singing and brilliant comic timing. But it was behind the drums that he really came alive.

What a talent! His drumming was outstanding, full of energy and confidence, with a few cheeky drumstick spins thrown in for good measure.

Lucy, playing Katie Brown, was equally impressive.

Having learned the bass guitar in just a matter of weeks, you would never have known. She looked completely at home with the instrument, confidently playing alongside her fellow young musicians.

Then there was Tomika, whose stunning singing voice was one of the real highlights of the morning.

Her powerful vocals filled the theatre, leaving me thinking, wow, what an incredible talent. Whether her future lies in singing, musical theatre or both, she certainly has a bright future ahead.

These were just three highlights from a young cast bursting with talent, enthusiasm and personality.

A Brilliant Dewey Finn & Plenty of Laughs

Of course, School of Rock needs a strong Dewey Finn to bring everything together, and Matt Sackman certainly delivered.

His tremendous energy, great vocals and larger than life personality reminded me of Jack Black in the original film.

He commanded the stage while allowing the younger performers plenty of opportunities to shine.

The chemistry between Dewey and the children was wonderful, with some brilliantly timed comedy and a sprinkling of cheeky adult humour that kept the grown ups entertained too.

More Than Just a Rock Musical

What makes School of Rock so enjoyable is the story beneath all the electric guitars, drums and rebellious behaviour.

It is about children discovering their confidence, challenging expectations and finding their own voices.

Songs such as Stick It to the Man brought tremendous energy, while If Only You Would Listen reminded us that the story also has a lot of heart.

Seeing the young cast playing real instruments on stage made the musical numbers even more impressive.

Learning to play an instrument is challenging enough, but combining that with acting, singing and performing in front of an audience takes real dedication.

And these young performers made it look effortless.

Community Theatre at Its Best

Another lovely aspect of this production was the involvement of parents and adults from the local community, some performing on stage for the very first time, alongside their own children.

That is what community theatre is all about. Bringing people together, building confidence and creating opportunities for everyone.

Having attended productions at some of our larger local theatres, including the Kings Theatre and Theatre Royal Portsmouth, I can genuinely say that Performers Theatre Company delivered a show that stood comfortably alongside many productions I have seen on those bigger stages.

The talent, energy, humour and sheer enjoyment were every bit as impressive.

It is easy to overlook smaller community productions, but performances like this demonstrate why local theatre deserves so much more attention and support.

A huge congratulations to everyone involved, from the talented cast and production team to the volunteers, families and Park Community School for providing the venue.

And to Jaxson, Lucy, the young performer playing Tomika and all the other young rock stars, keep doing what you are doing.

You were brilliant!

If this is the next generation of local musical theatre talent, the future is looking and sounding very bright indeed.

School of Rock The Musical was presented by Performers Theatre Company at Park Community Theatre, Havant, from 29 to 31 October 2026.

Review based on the Saturday morning performance, 31 October 2026.

Scenic Eye | Live Music, Theatre & Community Photography

Supporting local performers, music and theatre across Havant, Portsmouth and the surrounding area.

What a stunning setting for an evening of live music! 🎤✨

Despite the stormy weather, I had the pleasure of being invited along to capture photography and video at a private music event at the beautiful Beaulieu Abbey.

An evening filled with talented musicians, wonderful performances and a fantastic atmosphere, all within the historic surroundings of the Abbey.

It was also lovely to meet actor Andrew Lancel and his son. A familiar face from The Bill and Unforgotten.

Here's a little glimpse of the evening through the Scenic Eye lens. 📸🎬

See the music before you hear it.

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Sometimes the best evenings are worth braving a storm for!

Last night I was invited to beautiful Beaulieu Abbey by Jan Hoy to capture photography and content for a special evening of live music.

The invitation followed a lovely recommendation from a good friend, the incredibly talented Zoe Lindsey, who many will know from FREEBIRD, a Tribute to Eva Cassidy.

Getting there was an adventure in itself. With torrential rain and storms battering the South Coast, I was beginning to think I would need a jet ski rather than a car. Thankfully, I arrived without needing the RNLI!

An Evening of Music & Celebration

And what an evening it turned out to be. The historic Abbey provided a wonderful setting for a musical gala, bringing together a fantastic variety of singers, musicians and performers, all helping to raise money for charity.

The evening was hosted by Andrew Lancel (Wikipedia profile), best known for playing DI Neil Manson in The Bill and Frank Foster in Coronation Street, with more recent appearances in Unforgotten. Andrew was a brilliant host, bringing plenty of warmth and humour to the evening. It was a real pleasure meeting him and his talented son, Isaac. I have since found myself binge watching the BBC drama Time, which features Isaac!

The Beaulieu Warblers, the local community choir, opened the evening with a lovely rendition of “Edelweiss” from The Sound of Music. A fitting choice given Andrew’s previous role as Captain Von Trapp.

The New Forest Saxophone Quartet brought something different to the programme, including a beautiful performance of “Stranger on the Shore”. A wonderful example of how four instruments can create such a rich sound.

Isaac Lancel Watkinson delivered a moving vocal performance, returning later with “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” from Les Misérables. Having recently graduated from The Hammond in Chester, he is certainly a young performer with an exciting future.

Robin Phillips, musical director of the Beaulieu Warblers, brought his experience in musical theatre and traditional songs to the evening, performing pieces inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Mark Ponsford provided some wonderful light relief with performances of Flanders and Swann classics, including “The Gas Man Cometh” and “The Slow Train”. A lovely mix of musical storytelling and humour.

Toby Cuss, a classically trained violinist, treated the audience to beautiful instrumental music, including pieces from Cinema Paradiso and Sir Edward Elgar. His playing brought a different atmosphere to the evening.

The Brothers Barnes, Hayden and Nathan, delivered fantastic harmonies and a varied selection of songs, including “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “Viva Las Vegas” and “Stars” from Les Misérables. Two very talented young performers.

And, of course, it was lovely to see Zoe Lindsey performing again. Zoe has more than 20 years of musical experience and is the voice behind FREEBIRD, a Tribute to Eva Cassidy. Her passion for Eva’s music and the emotion she brings to her performances make her a real pleasure to watch.

A Special Tribute

One particularly touching moment came when Andrew recited “Sea Fever” by John Masefield in memory of Edward, Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, marking the centenary of his birth.

It was a lovely reminder of the history and personal connections that make Beaulieu such a special place.

A Night Worth Braving the Weather For

A huge thank you to Jan Hoy for inviting Scenic Eye along and to Zoe Lindsey for the recommendation.

It is always a privilege to capture these moments through my lens, particularly when so many talented people come together for a good cause.

The weather might have been dreadful outside, but inside Beaulieu Abbey there was nothing but warmth, music and wonderful company. More photographs and highlights from the evening to follow.

Scenic Eye | See the music before you hear it.

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© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

First on stage, a confident performance and then a winner’s trophy to take home to Portsmouth.

Jasmine Paige, known to local music fans as Jazzy Paige, delivered a night to remember at Song Academy Young Songwriter 2026 showcase. Opening the evening at The Tabernacle in Notting Hill on Saturday 3 October, she performed her original song, Pretty But Not, before being named the UK and Ireland winner in the 8 to 12 category.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

For those who have watched her performing around Portsmouth and the surrounding area, it was a proud moment. A local artist with a growing following had taken her music to a bigger stage and earned recognition for her own songwriting.

Going first brings its own pressure. There is no chance to watch another finalist settle the room or get a feel for the evening before taking your turn. Jazzy had the job of opening the entire showcase, and she delivered with confidence.

The introduction gave a clear sense of why Pretty But Not had caught the judges’ attention. They praised the honesty and vulnerability of its lyrics, along with the way its melody developed. A strong voice can draw people in, but a song that feels personal gives them a reason to keep listening.

Jazzy brought both to the stage.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

This was a serious competition, with just under 1,000 entries submitted across its categories from young songwriters around the world. Reaching the final was an achievement in itself. Taking the title meant standing out among a talented group, each with an original song and a different approach to making music.

Alongside Jazzy in her category were The Electronic Eagles with British Weather, Shouvik Ramgir with Crunching Yummy Veggie Love, Horatio Wilmott with Too Cool and Matteo Questa with S.O.S. (Same Old Situation).

There was plenty of character in that line up. The Electronic Eagles brought a cheeky celebration of British weather, while Shouvik used rap to encourage better eating choices. Horatio’s song was praised for its confidence and personality, and Matteo’s writing drew attention for its memorable chorus and clear sense of identity. Jazzy faced strong competition, which makes her success all the more rewarding.

She also had a sizeable piece of home in the audience. More than 20 family members and guests travelled up to support her, sharing an evening that became an important milestone in her musical journey.

The win adds to an already remarkable year, including 15 weeks at number one on Express FM music chart. It also brings opportunities to develop her music further. The prizes announced on the night included a half day recording session with producer Charlie Thomas and a home recording studio package from Focusrite and Novation.

I was there to photograph the evening for Scenic Eye, capturing Jazzy’s performance and the celebration around her. Nights like this are a reminder of why our local music scene deserves attention. The artists we see in familiar venues can go on to achieve something far beyond them.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

You can catch Jazzy at venues including The Prince of Wales Havant and The Apsley House , as well as other local stages. Check her Facebook page for upcoming appearances and music news.

There is something very special about this young Portsmouth artist. Her confidence as a performer, the honesty in her songwriting and the support growing around her make her one to watch.

Keep an eye on Jazzy. After a night like this, 2027 could be a big year for our local superstar in the making.

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© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

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© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

There is something special about hearing an artist perform a song they have written themselves. You are hearing their thoughts, their experiences and the things they want the world to understand.

At The Tabernacle in Notting Hill on Saturday 3 October, Song Academy’s Young Songwriter 2026 showcase gave those voices a stage. From thoughtful acoustic songs to confident pop and rap, the evening offered a glimpse of the talent coming through the next generation.

This year’s competition attracted just under 1,000 entries from young songwriters around the world. The London showcase brought together the UK and Ireland finalists across three age groups, alongside highly commended artists, to perform their original music with the Song Academy band.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

A Warm Welcome & A Confident Opening

Singer and presenter Tallia Storm hosted the evening, bringing enthusiasm and encouragement to the stage as she introduced each artist. A former Capital Breakfast Scotland host, Tallia combined her presenting experience with an understanding of what it takes to step into the spotlight as a young performer. She also performed during the evening.

Song Academy founder Rowena Atkins helped set the purpose of the night. This was a celebration of original songwriting, but also an opportunity for young artists to meet, learn and find people they might make music with in the future.

Portsmouth’s Jazzy Paige opened the entire showcase with Pretty But Not. Going first is no small task, but she delivered a confident performance, supported by more than 20 family members and guests who had travelled up to cheer her on.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

Different Styles & Stories

The youngest category brought plenty of personality. The Electronic Eagles performed British Weather, Shouvik Ramgir used rap to encourage healthier eating in Crunching Yummy Veggie Love, Horatio Wilmott brought Too Cool and Matteo Questa performed S.O.S. (Same Old Situation).

Across the remaining groups, the songs explored friendship, uncertainty, identity and the pressures of growing up. Sedina’s Can You Hear Me, Otto Gillies’ Age of Doubt and Arshiya Dwivedi’s The Lies showed how differently young writers can approach powerful feelings.

Later performances included King Olivero’s Dopamine, Immy Eloise’s Paper Thin, DEINI0L’s Dein the Third, String ’N’ Bone’s The Kid and Eleanor Avery’s Glitch.

The Awards & Recognition

Rowena Atkins was joined for the awards presentation by songwriter Toby Gad and judging panel chair Emily Phillips. Emily, whose credits include work with Florence and the Machine, Sigrid and John Newman, spoke about the originality the judges had heard and the difficulty of choosing between such strong entries.

Jazzy Paige won the UK and Ireland 8 to 12 category with Pretty But Not, giving her travelling supporters a particularly proud moment.

Arshiya Dwivedi won the 13 to 15 category with The Lies, while String ’N’ Bone won the 16 to 18 category with The Kid.

The separate Performer of the Night award recognised the live performance itself. Unlike the songwriting awards, which had been decided beforehand, this result followed the judges’ discussion of what they had seen on stage.

Immy Eloise received Performer of the Night after performing Paper Thin.

The prizes announced included recording time with producer Charlie Thomas and home studio equipment from Focusrite and Novation. Beyond the trophies, these were opportunities for the winners to continue developing their music.

© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

Special Guests & Advice From Behind the Hits

The closing part of the evening brought special guests RuthAnne and Toby Gad to the stage, connecting the young performers with two writers whose songs have reached audiences around the world.

Irish singer and songwriter RuthAnne Cunningham is known for writing hits including JoJo’s Too Little, Too Late, Britney Spears’ Work Bitch and One Direction’s No Control. Her career has taken her from entering a songwriting competition in Ireland to working with major international artists. Speaking to the finalists, she recalled winning a competition at 17 and how the opportunity helped lead her to Los Angeles and a writing session with Billy Steinberg. It was a powerful reminder that an evening like this can become the beginning of something much bigger.

Toby Gad brought an equally remarkable background. Born in Germany, he began making music as a child before building an international career as a songwriter and producer. His credits include John Legend’s All of Me, Beyoncé’s If I Were a Boy, Fergie’s Big Girls Don’t Cry and Demi Lovato’s Skyscraper. Hearing All of Me with the audience joining in created a memorable shared moment, with one of its writers there at the piano.

Both guests encouraged the young artists to collaborate. Their message was clear: talk to each other, share ideas and find people who bring something different to your music.

That spirit stayed with the evening. There were trophies to celebrate, but there was also a room full of young artists discovering that their songs deserved to be heard.

For Scenic Eye, it was a privilege to photograph those performances and celebrations. If this showcase was a glimpse of what comes next, there is plenty to look forward to.

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© 2026 Neil Terry, Scenic Eye.

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Walking into The Centurion, it already felt like an evening with a bit of character. The place was fully dressed for Halloween, with decorations everywhere creating a brilliant atmosphere before the music had even started.

This was my first time seeing the duo and they instantly stood out. The lead singer has a fantastic voice and the saxophone brought that proper ska flavour, cutting through the room with a bright, punchy sound.

The guitar added another layer, while the backing was kept quite simple, more of a steady drum beat than a full backing track. That gave the whole performance a much more live and natural feel.

Plenty of rhythm, plenty of personality and that unmistakable ska bounce running through the set.

A really enjoyable duo to listen to and definitely one I will be looking out for again soon.

Having seen Shotgun Smile at Staunton Festival back in August, I fancied checking them out again on the local pub scene. The Heroes was the perfect place for it.

This local band certainly packs a punch. Five highly energetic musicians giving it everything from start to finish, with plenty of energy coming back from a great crowd and a strong local following.

Loud, lively and full of character. Exactly what a local live music should feel like.

Great to see another local band getting such a strong response.

Around 20 years of watching ATOMIC BADGER now and they still know exactly how to get a pub rocking.

Always lively, always energetic and they pack a good loud punch wherever they play. Proper live music, full of energy and a band I never get tired of watching.

This one was a little more special. I even got the birthday wishes from the band as the countdown officially starts to the big 50 next year.

A huge thank you to all my friends who came along and joined me. We even took the Havant pub crew on tour for the night to Waterlooville and The Heroes,.

Great band, great friends and a brilliant night

There was a real international feel to The Flash Radio charity gig at The Lord John Russell in Southsea today, with Stacy Gabel travelling all the way from Pennsylvania in the USA to perform.

Stacy is an established recording artist, singer songwriter, actor and author. She is also a voting member of the Recording Academy, home of the Grammys. Her career has taken her to venues and events across the USA and the UK, including Nashville, New York, Los Angeles and London. She has also appeared at major events including SXSW and Musikfest.

Her set in Southsea had a really personal feel to it.

Stacy mixed her own songs with stories, humour and some very familiar covers. One of the more memorable moments was a fun song about the zoo and a giraffe, which brought a completely different feel to the set and showed the lighter side of her songwriting.

She also performed Taylor Swift ’s “I Knew It, I Knew You”, before paying tribute to Dolly Parton with “Jolene”. Both fitted naturally alongside Stacy’s own material and gave the audience a good mix of songs they knew and music they may have been hearing for the first time.

Stacy has released a collection of original music including “Straight to Voicemail”, “High Heeled Shoes”, “Sunny Days”, “Stir Crazy” and “A Little Magic”. Her work has earned her a long list of awards, including Lehigh Valley Music Awards for Outstanding All Around Performer, Outstanding Singer Songwriter, Best Song, Best Female Artist and Fan’s Choice.

What came across most during the performance was her personality. She has a warm, relaxed way of performing and connects with the audience through the stories behind the songs as much as the music itself.

For a local charity event in Southsea, having an artist travel from Pennsylvania to be part of the day made the occasion feel that little bit more special.

And Stacy was not finished there.

She was due back on stage at 6pm with The Stacy Gabel Band, giving the crowd another chance to see a different side of her music and bringing even more energy to an already packed afternoon of live performances.

The whole event was in support of The Flash Radio, with artists coming together for a full day of live music at The Lord John Russell.

For Scenic Eye Photography, this is exactly what covering local live music is about. Capturing artists in the moment, sharing the atmosphere and hopefully introducing a few more people to someone they may not have discovered before.

Stacy Gabel was certainly one of those artists today.

You can find out more about Stacy, her music, videos and upcoming shows on her Official Website.

More photos from Stacy and the rest of The Flash Radio charity gig will be coming to Scenic Eye Photography.

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The live music kept coming at The Flash Radio charity gig at The Lord John Russell in Southsea, and next up was South Coast singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist ollie hutton.

Ollie brought a really relaxed feel to the afternoon. Mixing his own songs with some very familiar favourites, he quickly had people joining in and helped get everyone properly into the spirit of the day.

There were a few Beatles songs thrown into the set too, which always goes down well. Before long there were plenty of voices around the room singing along.

Ollie is a singer, songwriter, pianist and guitarist based on the South Coast. He has more than eight years of public performance experience and has played everything from intimate venues and weddings through to major UK festivals.

His set moved easily between his own material and well known songs, without ever losing the personal feel of the performance.

What stood out most was how comfortable Ollie looked with the crowd. It did not feel like someone simply working through a set list. He was enjoying the room, getting people involved and helping create exactly the sort of atmosphere a charity music afternoon needs.

It was also great to hear some of his own songs mixed into the performance. Events like this are a brilliant opportunity to discover local artists and hear the music they have written themselves, alongside the songs that immediately get everyone singing.

Ollie was another great addition to a packed afternoon of music supporting THE FLASH ON AIR

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Hysteria Street certainly made sure everyone knew they had arrived.

They kicked things off with a few of their own songs before moving into some more familiar tracks, and from the start the energy was absolutely full on.

It is fair to say this one was LOUD, Very loud. Exactly what you want from a band playing with this much energy.

There was even a proper live music moment when Dan broke a guitar string and had to pinch the lead guitar for a song while things were sorted. No stopping the show though. They just carried on and kept the room going.

That is what live music is all about. Things happen, you adapt and the music keeps going.

A great band with loads of energy, plenty of volume and a set that mixed their own material with some well known favourites.

THE FLASH ON AIR The Lord John Russell

Great performance from Hysteria Street.

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For Stacy Gabel fourth year in Portsmouth, she decided to do something a little different.

Across her previous visits from Pennsylvania, USA, Stacy has met some brilliant local musicians. This time she brought those talents together and created the Stacy Gabel Band especially for today’s THE FLASH ON AIR charity gig.

The most impressive part? This six piece band only managed one practice session together a few nights before the show.

You honestly would never have known.

With Stacy leading from the front, the band sounded tight, confident and full of energy. Six talented musicians coming together for what was essentially a one off performance and making it feel like they had been playing together for far longer.

It was a brilliant example of what live music is all about. Musicians meeting through gigs, friendships forming and then coming together on stage to create something special.

Stacy may have travelled all the way from Pennsylvania, but after four visits to Portsmouth she has clearly built some strong musical connections here.

A fantastic performance from the Stacy Gabel Band and definitely one of those sets that felt a little bit special to witness.

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BON JOVI AT WEMBLEY

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Live music photography and stories that take you back into the crowd.

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SIX BON JOVI GIGS & THIS ONE HIT DIFFERENT 🤘🔥

Six times seeing Bon Jovi live. The O2, Hyde Park, St Mary’s in Southampton more than once and now Wembley Stadium. But standing just a handful of people from the front at Wembley on Sunday night made this one feel very special.

I have waited a long time to see Bon Jovi from that close and wow, Wembley absolutely rocked.

There is something about hearing those opening notes when you are surrounded by thousands of people who know every word. From the huge choruses of You Give Love a Bad Name and It’s My Life through to Bed of Roses, Wanted Dead or Alive, Always and, of course, Livin’ on a Prayer, it was one massive Bon Jovi singalong. The sort of night where complete strangers suddenly become mates because everyone is there for exactly the same reason.

And after everything Jon Bon Jovi has been through to get back on a stage like this, there was another layer to Sunday night. His return to touring follows major vocal cord surgery in 2022 and he openly reflected on just how long that road back had been. Watching him standing in front of Wembley again made the occasion feel about much more than simply another tour.

The warm summer evening only added to it. Jon looked around Wembley and described it as the perfect place to ‘have church’. Looking around at the thousands of people with their arms in the air, you could understand exactly what he meant.

Wembley and Bon Jovi have some serious history too. Jon spoke about those famous three nights at the old stadium in 1995, returning to play its final concerts before it closed and then coming back to the new Wembley in 2019. On Sunday he said returning again had been a ‘hope and a dream’. More importantly for everyone there, he made it very clear they are not finished with Wembley yet. They planted their flag here and made it home again, with Jon saying they hope to return ‘many, many more times’.

That got one hell of a reaction.

For me personally, gig number six is going to take some beating. I have seen Bon Jovi in arenas, stadiums and huge outdoor shows, but being right down at the front of Wembley, camera in hand and watching one of my favourite bands from just metres away was something else.

These photographs are my little piece of that night. The expressions, the lights, the energy and those moments you sometimes miss when you are watching a huge stadium show from further back. That is exactly what I love trying to capture with Scenic Eye. Real moments from live music that hopefully take you straight back into the crowd. I have video on TikTok.

Forty plus years of songs and Wembley was still singing every word.

Maybe gig number seven will be Wembley again. Jon certainly made it sound like he intends to come home. 🤘❤️

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Through My Lens: Bon Jovi at Wembley

Next batch of photos from today’s Pop Goes The Heroes Charity Music Festival, this time it’s Peludo Beach taking over the stage.

And Heidi. Well, there was definitely a bit of Pretty Woman meets Lady in Red going on today.

You certainly knew where to point the camera!

Great set, loads of energy and plenty of smiles from the crowd.

More photos still to come, so keep watching the Scenic Eye.

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THE MARVILLES ABSOLUTELY LIT UP THE STAGE!

All the photos from The Marvilles at today’s Pop Goes The Heroes Charity Music Festival.

Loads of energy, big smiles and a brilliant set from start to finish. Wow what a guitar too!

The Heroes, Waterlooville Rowans Hospice

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James Bay at Wembley & A Brilliant Start to Bon Jovi

Before Bon Jovi took over Wembley Stadium, James Bay had the fairly small task of warming up tens of thousands of people inside one of the biggest music venues in the country.

No pressure then.

James was the official support across all three of Bon Jovi’s Wembley dates on the Forever Tour. On Sunday evening he was due on stage at 6pm, slightly earlier time due to the curfew for live music on a Sunday.

It was a warm evening in London and Wembley was already filling quickly when James appeared. What followed was around 50 minutes of exactly what you want from a support act. Familiar songs, a strong live sound and enough presence to make a huge stadium feel surprisingly intimate.

His set opened with “Up All Night” before moving into a medley of “Peer Pressure”, “Craving” and “Pink Lemonade”. He then worked through “If You Ever Want to Be in Love”, “Us”, “Let It Go”, “You and Me Time” and “Wanderlust”, finishing with two of the songs that really got Wembley singing, “Best Fake Smile” and, of course, “Hold Back the River”.

“Let It Go” was one of those moments where you could hear just how many James Bay fans were already inside the stadium. There is something quite impressive about hearing a song normally associated with a much more intimate singer and songwriter setting suddenly being carried around Wembley by thousands of voices.

What stood out for me just as much as the music, though, was how James dealt with a few medical emergencies in the crowd.

On more than one occasion attention was needed within the audience. James noticed what was happening and stopped immediately. There was no attempt to push through the song or ignore it. He simply gave the medics and stadium team the space and time they needed to deal with the situation before continuing.

With such a large crowd packed into Wembley on a warm evening, it was a good reminder that the music can wait. Credit to James for recognising it so quickly and making sure the people involved were looked after.

Wembley had also made free drinking water available around the stadium and on the pitch, which was particularly welcome given the conditions.

James Bay was already a pretty impressive name to have listed as “support”, but he certainly did not perform like someone simply filling the time before the headline act.

There was another nice connection later in the evening too. James returned to the Wembley stage during Bon Jovi’s headline set to join them for “Legendary”.

From a Scenic Eye point of view, this was exactly why I love photographing live music. You can listen to these songs countless times but standing inside Wembley, watching “Hold Back the River” being sung back towards the stage by thousands of people is something completely different.

A very strong opening to the evening and, judging by the reaction around Wembley, James Bay gained more than a few new fans before Bon Jovi had even walked onto the stage.

China Lake were back at the golden lion. for another cracking evening of live music, this time with an earlier start.

The gig was brought forward to 7.30pm as The Lion continues to trial earlier evening gigs. After trying them through the summer, they certainly seem to be proving popular, giving people the chance to enjoy a full evening of live music without it turning into a particularly late night.

The earlier start did mean China Lake had to do a little bit of last minute squad management. They managed to get a strong line up of guitarists together, then at half time made a tactical substitution and brought on fresh legs for the second half. Clearly band are taking the transfer window very seriously.

Back indoors, the pub was full of atmosphere with a great crowd enjoying the music and getting behind the band.

China Lake certainly did not disappoint. Another really enjoyable night at The Goldie and a great reminder of just how good live music feels in a packed local pub.

Everyone is already looking forward to seeing China Lake back at The Golden Lion again next year.

A great evening at The Old House at Home in Havant and really nice to be back there again catching up with people not seen in a while.

The night started off fairly quiet, but it did not stay that way for long. Before we knew it, the pub had filled up with plenty of familiar faces and there was a brilliant atmosphere throughout the evening and lots of dancing.

Mike kept everyone entertained with a great mix of popular country music, playing plenty of songs people knew and could sing along to. It was great to see The Old House busy again on a Saturday night with live music bringing people together.

There was also a little bit of nostalgia in the room. I still miss familiar faces like Brian, who was always the soul of the party, and John, better known to many as Mr Cat Cap, who absolutely loved his live music. Nights like this certainly bring back plenty of memories.

A really enjoyable evening all round and we are already looking forward to seeing Mike back at The Old House at Home again soon.

Poacher took to the bowls green as part of the club’s anniversary celebrations, bringing a proper rock and roll punch with their three piece setup. A great sound, plenty of energy and exactly the sort of live music that works so well on an afternoon like this.

The club was packed with members, families and locals enjoying a fully open day. There was a real community feel around the place, with plenty going on and lots of people making the most of the celebration.

The hog roast smelt absolutely gorgeous and judging by the queue, plenty of people agreed. The bar team worked tirelessly throughout the day too, keeping everyone refreshed and in good spirits.

Poachers were a great addition to the celebrations, with the resident DJ Disco Inferno (Mandy Jacks) keeping the music flowing before and after their set.

A busy club, live music, good food and plenty of familiar faces. A cracking afternoon celebrating an impressive 120 years of the Bellair Club. See less

This afternoon I had the chance to listen to and photograph Mica Alice for the first time at Stansted Garden Centre and wow, what a lovely way to spend a Friday afternoon.

It is worth remembering just what a great little venue Stansted Garden Centre is for live music. You can grab something to eat or drink, find a seat and enjoy some genuinely talented singers and musicians in a calm and relaxed setting. It is the perfect place for a Friday afternoon chill out session.

Mica is an incredibly talented steel pannist and I could have happily sat there listening for much longer. Sadly I could only stay for her first set, but what I heard was brilliant.

Her set included a great mix of music, from older classics through to modern songs. I particularly enjoyed her versions of Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud and Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love. Her full repertoire is huge, covering old and new music.

What really stood out was how different familiar songs sound when played on the steel pan. It creates such a warm, relaxing sound while still keeping the melody instantly recognisable. There were also a few people watching closely and taking an interest in the instrument itself and how the steel pan works.

There was a brilliant atmosphere throughout the set. Relaxed, friendly and exactly what live music on a Friday afternoon should be.

Mica would bring an amazing dimension to weddings and private events.

Sometimes you do not realise how much you need an hour of good live music until you sit down and listen. This was exactly what I needed to switch off and chill out on a Friday afternoon.

If you are a local artist, band, venue or event organiser and would like Scenic Eye to capture your event, get in touch.

The aim is simple. Real photos and video that show people what it actually feels like to be there, while helping more people discover the brilliant live music happening locally.

Mica is definitely one to look out for again.

Some live shows entertain you, others make you stop, listen and feel every word.

Last night at The Gaiety in Southsea, FREEBIRD a Tribute to Eva Cassidy was very much the latter.

I first saw Zoe A Lindsay perform FREEBIRD at its opening show at Hanger Farm earlier this year. I was impressed then, but this performance felt like the show had moved to another level. A huge part of that came from the addition of the live band.

Zoe was joined by three incredibly accomplished musicians. J Fashole Luke on piano and backing vocals, Eric Rupert on bass and Ben Kill on drums and vocals.

And these are not simply musicians brought in to fill out the sound

J Fashole-Luke is a multi instrumentalist who has performed across Europe and at some very well known festivals and venues. His career has included appearances at Glastonbury, Isle of Wight Festival and Ronnie Scott’s as well as BBC Two’s Later with Jools Holland. He has also worked with artists including Alexandra Burke, Dolly Parton and Usher.

Ben Kill brought another layer to the evening on drums. His experience includes performances at venues such as the Barbican, The Vortex and 606 Club along with appearances at Glastonbury, Victorious and Isle of Wight Festival.

I also had the chance to spend some time talking with bassist Eric Rupert, and you very quickly realise just how much musical history sits behind the man holding that double bass.

Eric has spent more than three decades working as a touring and studio bassist. His career has included work with some extraordinary names including Dolly Parton, Roger Daltrey and Dizzy Gillespie as well as Dr John, Tony Bennett and Willie Nelson. He has performed everywhere from the Royal Albert Hall to the Hollywood Bowl and Glastonbury.

During our conversation Eric also shared some fascinating stories from his career, including his own connection with Eva Cassidy and working around artists including Blondie. Hearing some of those experiences before watching him perform made his involvement in FREEBIRD feel particularly special.

Together, the band added an entirely new dimension to Zoe’s performance.

The piano, upright bass and drums never competed with Zoe’s voice, they supported it.

At times they were incredibly subtle, then moments later the whole sound opened up beautifully. It gave songs I had already heard Zoe perform at Hanger Farm a completely different depth.

But FREEBIRD is about much more than simply performing Eva Cassidy’s songs.

Through the evening Zoe tells Eva’s story between the music, sharing parts of her life and giving context to the songs. That narrative and biography was fascinating and Zoe delivered it in such a natural way that it never felt like you were being given a history lesson. Instead, you were being taken through somebody’s life.

There were moments during songs where the intimate audience was so quiet you genuinely could have heard a pin drop.

That says a lot.

The set travelled through so many of the songs associated with Eva Cassidy. Songbird, Blue Skies, Ain’t No Sunshine, Wade in the Water, People Get Ready, Danny Boy, Time After Time, True Colours and Autumn Leaves all featured during the first half.

After the interval we heard Fields of Gold, Tall Trees in Georgia, Imagine, I Know You By Heart, Cheek to Cheek, Honeysuckle Rose, Wonderful World, Wayfaring Stranger, Over the Rainbow and Bridge Over Troubled Water.

There is a lovely balance between soul, jazz, blues and folk throughout the show.

What perhaps makes FREEBIRD different from many tribute shows, though, is the very personal story behind it.

Zoe discovered Eva Cassidy’s voice when she was around 15 and had wanted for many years to create a show celebrating her music. But FREEBIRD also has a much deeper meaning.

FreeBird was the Reiki name used by Zoe’s mum, who sadly passed away when Zoe was younger. The show is dedicated to her memory.

Once you know that, some of the emotion you see and hear on stage makes even more sense.

This is not someone simply standing on stage singing somebody else’s songs. There is clearly something very personal attached to the music and you could feel that emotion throughout the evening.

At times you could see it in Zoe.

And looking around the room, you could see it in the audience too.

There were certainly a few tears.

Perhaps the greatest endorsement of what Zoe has created comes from Eva Cassidy’s brother, Dan Cassidy, who has praised Zoe for capturing the soul, spirit and beauty he remembers in his sister’s music.

Having now seen FREEBIRD twice, first at Hanger Farm and now with the full band at The Gaiety Southsea, it is great to see how the production is developing.

If last night’s performance is anything to go by, Somerset has something rather special heading its way next.

FREEBIRD comes to Strode Theatre , Somerset on Friday 16 October.

If you love Eva Cassidy’s music, or simply appreciate a live show where the music, musicians and story genuinely mean something, this is one worth seeing.

A beautiful evening of live music, storytelling and quite a lot of emotion.

#FREEBIRD #EvaCassidy #ZoeLindsay #LiveMusic #TheGaiety #Southsea #Portsmouth #Somerset #LiveMusicPhotography #ScenicEye #SupportLiveMusicS

What a fantastic evening at Portsmouth Guildhall with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra performing some of the greatest film music ever written by Hans Zimmer and John Williams.

The orchestra opened the first set with the iconic themes from Star Wars and Harry Potter, instantly setting the tone for a magical evening. Across two superb sets they took the audience on a journey through some of cinema’s most memorable soundtracks, before bringing the night to a spectacular close with music from Hook.

The Guildhall Square was packed with people enjoying the warm summer evening. The live music was made even more special with bursts of pyro and showers of ticket tape, creating a real concert atmosphere. It was also great to bump into a few familiar faces and share such a memorable night together.

A huge credit to the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Their talent, precision and passion shone through from start to finish. It was an unforgettable performance and a brilliant way to spend a summer evening in Portsmouth.

#ScenicEye #PortsmouthGuildhall #BournemouthSymphonyOrchestra #HansZimmer #JohnWilliams #FilmMusic #LiveMusic #Portsmouth #StarWars #HarryPotter #Hook

Louise Sevier brought the magic of Fleetwood Mac to Number 73 Bar & Kitchen on Thursday night with her Stevie Nicks tribute, making her first appearance at the venue.

This was my first time seeing Louise perform and I can certainly see why she is so popular across Hampshire. Alongside her Stevie Nicks tribute, Louise performs a wide range of music, from relaxed jazz and soft rock through to party favourites from the 70s, 80s and 90s. She is also part of the fantastic Groove monster band.

The audience enjoyed all the Fleetwood Mac classics, with Louise capturing the unmistakable sound and style of Stevie Nicks. One of my personal highlights was The Chain, a song every Formula 1 fan knows well as one of the sport’s most iconic theme tunes.

It was also great to see another new act performing at Number 73 Bar, which continues to host quality live music every Thursday night. If you have not been along yet, it is well worth a visit.

#ScenicEye #SeeTheMusicBeforeYouHearIt #LiveMusic #Number73Bar #StevieNicks #FleetwoodMac #LouiseSevier #GrooveMonster #HampshireMusic #SupportLocalMusic #LiveMusicPhotography #ThursdayNightMusic #HavantMusic #LocalGigs

Saturday saw The Heroes, Waterlooville host Heroes of Rock in support of Help For Heroes.

What is normally a car park was transformed into an outdoor music venue complete with a BBQ, outdoor bar and a fantastic crowd. Despite the lack of sunshine, the warm and humid weather helped create a great atmosphere throughout the afternoon.

Just Sam got things underway with a set packed with favourites, including Jolene. Next came The Smugglers Band who brought some seriously heavy rock to the stage. A little heavier than my usual Bon Jovi playlist, but excellent musicians all the same.

Snake Heart followed with a strong set featuring a brilliant Hotel California, before Candyfloss Blonde rounded off my afternoon in style. Opening with Zombie, they delivered a fantastic set full of classic songs and had the crowd singing along from the start.

Sadly I missed Kneeslider. After four hours of photos, videos and live streams, my camera batteries finally gave up. To make matters worse, according to the parking warden’s signs, I couldn’t return for two hours as my four hour max had expired. With Cooper my dog waiting for his dinner at home, it seemed like a good excuse to call it a day.

The music continues tonight with Masters of Rock headlining what promises to be a fantastic evening.

A great event, a great cause and another reminder of the strength of our local live music scene. Well done to everyone involved in raising money for Help for Heroes.

Jamie Golding made his debut appearance at Stansted Garden Centre, performing to a friendly and appreciative afternoon crowd.

Jamie opened his set with a selection of well loved classics before showcasing his impressive vocal range with several songs from the West End stage. The mix of musical theatre and familiar favourites created a relaxed atmosphere.

With the sun shining and the café busy, it was another enjoyable afternoon of live music at Stansted Garden Centre.

If you enjoy the photos and would like the high resolution, feel free to buy me a coffee. Every donation helps support Scenic Eye and the local music scene.

With the sun shining and the garden packed at the golden lion. Bedhampton, we knew we were in for a treat when Bullet Train rolled into Bedhampton on Sunday afternoon.

From the first song, the band had the crowd hooked. The garden was full of people singing along, dancing, and enjoying a perfect afternoon of live music. In fact, plenty of people wandered in from up the road after hearing the music and wanting to see what all the fuss was about.

There was one moment of concern when the smoke machine kicked into action and briefly made it look like the shed was on fire. Thankfully it was just part of the show and not a call for the fire brigade!

Bullet Train powered through a set packed with 80s rock classics, including crowd favourites Livin’ On A Prayer, Always and a host of other massive anthems that had the garden singing at the top of their lungs.

The feedback from customers was incredible throughout the afternoon.

“One of the best bands!”

“We love these guys!”

“Such energy and passion!”

“When are they on next?”

The band brought the music, the atmosphere and enough energy to light up the whole garden. If there was an award for Sunday afternoon entertainment, this would have been an Oscar winning performance.

Another fantastic day of live music, great company and plenty of happy faces. Exactly what local live music is all about.

The sun returned in style for Portsea Fest on Saturday, bringing blue skies, soaring temperatures and a fantastic atmosphere for a day packed with family entertainment, live music and community spirit.

I was invited along to photograph local singer songwriter Jazzy Paige (Jazzypaigeofficial ) and her family as she took to the stage for one of the festival’s standout performances.

Jazzy is quickly becoming one of Portsmouth’s brightest young talents. Her original single has now spent an incredible nine consecutive weeks at number one on Portsmouth's Express FM’s local music chart and is available across all major streaming platforms.

Adding to an already impressive year, Jazzy has also reached the final of the UK wide Young Songwriter competition, placing her among some of the country’s most promising emerging artists.

Performing for more than 50 minutes in the afternoon sunshine, Jazzy delivered a confident set that had the crowd singing along, dancing and fully engaged from start to finish. Mixing well loved classics with her own original material, she showcased both her vocal ability and growing stage presence.

Highlights included her lively rendition of Bobby’s Girl alongside the performance of her chart topping original single that has captured the attention of listeners across the region.

With a growing fan base, national recognition and continued support from local radio, Jazzy Paige is proving that hard work, talent and determination can take young artists a very long way. Based on Saturday’s performance at Victoria Park, she looks destined for an exciting future.

Photos by Scenic Eye - Your go to guide for live music in Havant and surrounding areas. See less

Friday afternoon was spent enjoying the wonderful talents of Helen Spooner at Stansted Park Garden Centre.

Helen has a rare ability to combine powerful vocals with exceptional piano playing, creating a performance that immediately captures your attention. Helen brings a fresh take to well known songs across the decades while adding her own unique style and personality.

What makes Helen stand out is how effortlessly she connects with her audience. One moment she is delivering a heartfelt ballad, the next she is putting her own spin on a classic favourite.

Stansted Garden Centre continues to be one of the area’s hidden gems for live music. Every Friday from 2:30pm to 4:30pm, the Garden Café provides the perfect setting to unwind at the end of the week. Whether you are catching up on a few final emails, enjoying a coffee and cake, or simply taking a well deserved break, it is a lovely way to spend a Friday afternoon.

A fantastic performance from Helen and another reminder that great live music can often be found in the most unexpected places.

Another evening, another music adventure, and this time it was my first visit to the The Berkeley Arms

When people warned me it was going to be busy, they weren’t exaggerating. I arrived to find the venue operating on a guest list only basis, a clear sign of just how popular the evening had become. Fortunately, I had been invited along by Sean Meads to photograph what was billed as the final The Trevor John Band gig.

The celebrations were in full swing as the Berkeley Arms marked its 12th anniversary, and the atmosphere was electric. Trevor John Band wasted no time getting the party going, launching into a set packed with popular favourites that had the crowd singing along from the very first songs.

Getting photographs was a challenge in itself. With every inch of space occupied, I had to resort to a few cheeky photographer tactics, slipping in through a side entrance and finding a spot beyond one of the speakers to grab some shots from the front. It was worth the effort and it was great catching up with so many familiar faces from the local live music scene.

Once I’d escaped the hustle and bustle indoors, I discovered one of the venue’s hidden gems. The garden offered a much calmer setting where I could still enjoy every song while capturing photographs from behind the stage. From there I had a direct view of the band, the crowd and the stunning surroundings, giving me a completely different perspective on what was a memorable evening.

At the centre of it all was Trevor John himself. Despite many people assuming John is his surname, it is actually his middle name. Originally from a musical family in Singapore, Trevor has spent many years performing in the UK and has built a reputation for a voice that can effortlessly move from powerful rock classics to more intimate acoustic favourites. That versatility was on full display throughout the evening, with songs spanning multiple decades and genres, keeping the packed audience entertained from start to finish.

It’s easy to see why the Berkeley Arms has earned such a strong reputation. The venue is known for its welcoming atmosphere, characterful surroundings and commitment to live music. Combined with the energy of the crowd and a band delivering hit after hit, it made for a brilliant evening.

Congratulations to the Berkeley Arms on celebrating 12 years, and congratulations to Trevor John Band for providing the perfect soundtrack to the occasion.

If this really was the final chapter for Trevor John Band, then it was a fitting way to bow out. A packed venue, a fantastic atmosphere and a set full of songs that had people singing along from start to finish. Not many bands get the chance to sign off in front of a crowd like that, but Trevor John Band did exactly that.

Here’s to the memories, the music and one last great night at the Berkeley Arms. A fitting finale for a band that has entertained audiences across the South Coast for many years.

Sometimes you stumble across an artist for the first time and wonder how you’ve not seen them before.

That was exactly my experience watching Stockman, aka Alex Kriche, at The Lord Raglan Emsworth .

Alexander kriche brings a unique style to every song he performs, putting his own spin on classic 70s and 80s favourites while keeping the crowd engaged from start to finish. Full of charisma and personality, he has that rare ability to make every performance feel personal.

What surprised me most was learning that guitar isn’t even his main instrument. Piano is actually his first choice, which makes his musicianship even more impressive.

The audience were captivated throughout and it was easy to see why. Great songs, great vocals and a genuinely talented performer doing things his own way.

A fantastic evening of live music and another reminder of the incredible talent we have on our local music scene.

If you enjoy the photos and would like the high resolution, feel free to buy me a coffee. Every donation helps support Scenic Eye and the local music scene.

Three bands, one night. A decent challenge even by Scenic Eye standards!

My final stop of the evening was The Zed Men at The Crown, and what a way to round off a busy night of live music. The band brought plenty of energy, delivering a set packed with well known classics that kept the crowd dancing and singing along.

The Crown Inn Emsworth was packed and buzzing, with a great atmosphere both inside and out.

A great reminder of why the local music scene is thriving. Talented bands, welcoming venues and people simply enjoying a night out with friends and good music.

If you enjoy the photos and would like the high resolution, feel free to buy me a coffee. Every donation helps support Scenic Eye and the local music scene.

Take ThatCircus Tour was nothing short of mesmerising.

From the moment the show started, it was clear this was far more than a concert. It was a full scale spectacle. Acrobats, dancers, fire, aerial performers, a giant elephant and some of the biggest pop anthems of the last three decades all combined into one unforgettable evening.

Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald had over 30,000 people singing every word, proving why Take That remain one of the UK’s greatest live acts. The production was breathtaking, the atmosphere electric and the crowd absolutely loved every minute.

The critics have called it “maximal razzle dazzle” and an “eye popping spectacle”, and after seeing it for myself, it’s hard to disagree. One hell of a show and a night my daughter and I will remember.

Russell is a hugely charismatic performer who brings so much energy, humour, and life to the stage. This was my first time seeing his George Michael tribute and, as someone who absolutely loves the music and lyrics, it certainly did not disappoint. Some fantastic performances throughout the night and the atmosphere in the venue was buzzing from start to finish.

I was a little nervous before going as I had never visited the venue before, but I honestly could not have felt more welcome. Matt behind the bar, along with all the ladies working there, were lovely, friendly, and really looked after everyone all evening. I even managed to grab a great staff photo for the ladies as well. Service was incredibly quick, the cocktails looked absolutely out of this world, and the food coming out of the kitchen looked amazing too. Definitely somewhere I will be returning to for a family meal.

Number 73 Bar clearly knows how to put on a great night, with lots of tribute acts and live entertainment lined up. A fantastic venue with a warm atmosphere and great people. Easy five stars from me.

First time watching Brooke Star Brookestarmusic at the The Prince of Wales Havant last night and what a great atmosphere.

It is brilliant to see venues like the Prince of Wales bringing fresh new local talent into the live music scene. Brooke is definitely an up and coming artist to watch locally and it is easy to see why she has built such a strong following on TikTok.

The live stream on her TikTok profile pulled in over 400 concurrent viewers, which is seriously impressive for a local live gig.

Strong vocals and a lively crowd supporting her all night. One to keep an eye on for sure.

Jazzy Paige - Jazzypaigeofficial Remember the name.

There is always that moment in a pub when the background noise drops and people start paying attention. That happened here. A full room, and not just full, but properly listening. No talking over the music, just people locked in.

Jazzy has that rare ability to take control of a room without forcing it. It feels natural. One minute you are chatting, the next you are wondering how you ended up fully invested in every word.

The set moved from powerful Adele covers to her own material, and that is where things really hit. Her original song, with strong lyrics around bullying, landed hard. Honest, real, and delivered with confidence well beyond what you expect from most performers on the local scene.

And here is the thing, calling her “up and coming” does not quite fit. She is already holding her own, and more than that, standing shoulder to shoulder with some of the best local singers around.

Another great example of what the local scene has to offer, and exactly why it matters to get out and experience it live.

This was another talent the The Prince of Wales Havant have added to their gig this this year. Watch out for more.

What an atmosphere at the golden lion. Bedhampton. I got there about 5 after getting the train back from supporting the runners at the London Marathon. The place was packed and full of energy.

The Bullet Train Band brought a full 80s stadium rock vibe, with the crowd singing along to every big ballad and anthem. The lead singer and guitarist drove the set with real presence and energy, a proper frontman performance backed brilliantly by Pete and the rest of the band.

Standout moments came thick and fast, with strong performances of Always, Bad Medicine, and a huge singalong to I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing. It was that loud and that good, even the London Marathon runners stepping off the train at Bedhampton could hear every word. By the time the chorus hit, they were likely wondering if they had signed up for 26.2 miles or just run straight into a live Aerosmith finale.

You could feel the buzz around the pub, everyone talking about how good it was.

Bullet Train are fast becoming a firm favourite at The Golden Lion. If you get the chance to see them, do not miss it. They will be back soon, and it will be another big one.

Caught Power House tonight on the way back from a random gig in Littlehampton, a popular Ska duo bringing plenty of familiar tunes and a good bit of energy to the pub.

Lots of new faces, both behind the bar and customer wise.

Nice to see Hollie still behind the bar though, serving everyone with that lovely smile as always

Another enjoyable bit of live local music and great to see a different crowd out supporting it.

Photos from the evening.

Peludo Beach kicked off The the golden lion. Bedhampton ’s first summer garden party of the year in absolute style. The garden was packed, the brand new Cruzcampo brollies were out in force, the drinks were ice cold and somehow the bar staff and glass collector kept smiling through 28 to 30 degree heat. Massive credit to them all Peludo Beach smashed out three brilliant sets through the afternoon, with the middle set going LIVE on THE FLASH ON AIR Radio, another great supporter of local music and local businesses in the area. The sound was booming across Bedhampton too, with plenty of people sat in the sunshine smiling, singing along and enjoying themselves. Although you do have to laugh at the people who move next door to a pub with live music and then act shocked when they hear… live music and people actually enjoying themselves. Perhaps they should have joined in to support 3 hours of community fun rather than complaining. A proper summer atmosphere and hopefully the first of many garden parties this year.

Jazzy Paige Jazzypaigeofficial is one of those local artists who makes you stop what you’re doing and listen. Jazzy was singing this afternoon at the local The Prince of Wales Havant who are getting some great fresh music in the area.

Many of you will already know her powerful vocals, but she is also making waves as a songwriter. Her original track Pretty But Not has now spent an incredible 8 weeks on Portsmouth's Express FM, and it’s easy to see why. The song is honest, relatable, and packed with lyrics that many of us can connect with. We all face challenges in life, and Jazzy captures those feelings in a way that is both heartfelt and incredibly catchy.

Adding to an already impressive year, Jazzy has also been selected in the Top 30 of the UK Songwriter of the Year competition. The next milestone comes on 9th June when the Top 10 finalists are announced.

Whether performing covers or sharing her own music, Jazzy has a real ability to command a room and connect with an audience. A local talent with a very bright future ahead.

Good luck, Jazzy. We’ll be cheering you on on 9th June.

Sunday afternoon turned into a little live music tour, and my final stop was Phil Gooding at the golden lion. Bedhampton.

By the time I arrived the garden was absolutely packed. Not an easy achievement when The Goldie has one of the biggest pub gardens around. The sun was shining, the drinks were flowing and it was another fantastic outdoor event following last week’s huge Sunday session and live stream with THE FLASH ON AIR.

Phil was in his element, spending as much time engaging with the customers as he was performing. Between songs he could not resist a little jibe that it was busier than Coalie Fest, which he had heard had been rather quiet for most of the afternoon. I will leave that one between Phil and Emsworth!

The atmosphere was brilliant all afternoon and, living locally, I got an unexpected encore. Walking home, the light breeze carried Phil’s music all the way to my front door, where I could still enjoy the finale until around 6:45pm. A perfect end to the afternoon with classics such as Country Roads and Delilah drifting across Bedhampton.