The event was an unapologetically bold celebration that pushed the boundaries of what festivals can be.
Photo: Sara El Nairree
Simple Things is a festival that refuses to be put in a box. It took place across multiple Bristol venues, spanning Shredenhams, Rough Trade, Strange Brew, The Island, and Bristol Beacon. With a versatile lineup bringing together standout artists from an array of genres, Simple Things transcended limitations and offered an array of eclectic acts.
Shredenhams, Bristol’s former Debenhams turned skatepark, was transformed once more into a venue for groundbreaking performances. Panda Bear & Sonic Boom’s set was euphoric from start to finish. Their set was a psychedelic extravaganza, merging ethereal electronic sounds with colourful visuals that captivated the audience.
Next came Moor Mother, who delivered a thought-provoking performance that questioned the very purpose of music itself. With just the decks and a microphone, she built an experimental narrative that demanded reflection.
The African metal scene’s icon Lord Spikeheart brought a dramatic change of pace with an epic hardcore set. His powerful screamo vocals and exhilarating stage presence electrified the audience, making them dance just as hard as he did.
Over at The Island, Loukeman delivered a mesmerising DJ set. The sound was hypnotic from the first beat, and he kept the room moving from start to finish with a blend of electronic dance and techno.
At Bristol Beacon, Chanel Beads offered a gentler but undeniably captivating performance in the dark. With nothing to distract from the sound, the focus stayed firmly on the music. The gorgeous vocals were complemented by the delicate chimes and instrumentals seamlessly woven into the set.
Cobrah completely owned the large stage of Beacon Hall. She performed her iconic pop ballads with the confidence and stage presence of an artist who knows exactly what she’s doing. Her influence stretched further still, as her own curated takeover brought the sound of Berlin techno to the intimate Terrace at Bristol Beacon.
MUCHAS PROBLEMAS delivered a confident and daring performance that created an atmosphere brimming with boldness. COUCOU CHLOE followed with an intimate set of her signature anthems, made even better when Cobrah joined her on stage for WIZZ. Finally, Only Fire brought the night to an unforgettable close with a provocative DJ set.
Simple Things once again managed to transform Bristol into a hub of standout music from across the world. Its willingness to champion the adventurous and unexpected is what makes it so special, and we can’t wait to see what it brings next year.
All photos by Sara El Nairree.
