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Ipswich Music Guide: VIGILANTES, Tyber & Pete and the Wild Walls Closing Party with Ipswich's Native James

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Get ready for dub, ska, indie rock, garage, and alt-soul! Brighten the Corners' Faith Hussain looks back at this week's biggest live music events and previews upcoming performances in Ipswich.

Last week's highlights

26 Sep: East Anglian Noise Alliance

East Anglian Noise Alliance presented a night that harnessed the raw power of electronics, blending unsettling drone noises with pulsating modular synths to create a visceral soundscape that pushed the boundaries of modern music.

With a crazy lineup from DShappyBOI, White Noise Winter, Linus Fitness Centre, ANRUFEN and MINDINFECTEDFUTUREFACTION, their experimental approach transformed traditional music structures, crafting intricate layers of sound.

DShappyBOI performing at The Smokehouse
DShappyBOI performing at The SmokehouseMiff PleasantMiff Pleasant

27 Sep: The Frestonians, Hope Ahead and Dolce Fire

The Frestonians, Hope Ahead, and Dolce Fire tore it up at the Smokehouse last Friday, each bringing a unique rock pop dynamic sound that included modern rock covers as well as fresh, original sounds.

They dazzled the audience with their innovative blend of electronic elements and classic rock riffs, showcasing their impressive musicianship. They created an unforgettable night, proving that rock is alive and well, with fresh sounds and engaging interactions that resonate with fans old and new.

Coming up

03 Oct: VIGILANTES, Antelope and Ward Of Iron at The Smokehouse

The Vigilantes, alongside Antelope and Ward of Iron, will bring a captivating energy to the Smokehouse, delivering moody pop perfectly tailored for the introverted heart.

Initially starting as an Arctic Monkeys tribute band, The Vigilantes transitioned to original material within just a year and earned the approval of indie giants.

Their lively, groovy indie pop is reminiscent of the youthful sound of the Arctic Monkeys, drawing the audience in with infectious rhythms and engaging melodies that resonate deeply with fans. 

04 Oct: Tyber & Pete from the Dualers at The Baths

Tyber and Pete from the Dualers blend the infectious rhythms of reggae, ska, and rock as a duo act. The Dualers have earned a reputation as Britain’s finest in the genre.

Fronted by the charismatic and dynamic Tyber Cranstoun, whose powerful vocals and commanding stage presence captivate audiences, Tyber and Pete deliver an electrifying live experience.

Their sound appeals to fans of legends like Prince Buster, Bob Marley, The Dominoes, and Toots and the Maytals.

It is a must-see for any lover of classic ska and reggae.

05 Oct: Wild Walls Closing Party with Native James at The Baths

Hailing from Ipswich, this alternative rap artist skillfully transcends genre boundaries, creating a dynamic fusion of Grime and Rock. Native James’ sound is a distinctive blend of genre-defying Hip Hop, Grime, Garage, Punk, and Rock, which he seamlessly weaves into a cohesive experience.

Wild Walls Festival closing party poster
Wild Walls Closing Party posterBrighten the Corners

His ability to integrate such diverse musical elements speaks to his remarkable talent and innovation within the contemporary music scene.

His unique approach quickly gained recognition, leading to performances on prominent BBC stages at major festivals, including Latitude, Reading, and Leeds last year. 

We’re looking forward to this one – get ready to move like there's no tomorrow. 

06 Oct: BTCP: Romeo Stodart & Ren Harvieu at The Smokehouse

Romeo Stodart is best known as the lead singer and songwriter of the beloved London-based rock 'n' roll harmony group The Magic Numbers.

Beyond his work with the band, Stodart’s distinctive guitar style has made him a sought-after collaborator. He has contributed to various high-profile projects, including Damon Albarn and Spiritualized, and touring with Jimmy Webb and The Webb Brothers. 

Ren & Romeo poster
Romeo Stodart & Ren Harvieu posterBrighten the Corners

One of Stodart's most significant collaborations has been with the enigmatic Salford-born singer-songwriter Ren Harvieu. Harvieu made a powerful return after her life-threatening injury just before the release of her debut album.

Her latest work showcases a bolder, more expansive take on her distinctive pop classicism. Her music is a diary of struggle, resilience, and creative liberation, with Stodart as her trusted writing partner throughout this transformative journey. 

The duo will be playing an intimate set at the Smokehouse. 

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Shotley woman who repeatedly kneed neighbour in unprovoked attack sentenced

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Callan Brett from Shotley, who attacked a woman unloading groceries from her car, has been given a suspended prison sentence and will be monitored via GPS tag.

Why it matters: The unprovoked assault left the victim requiring surgery and led to a 20-month legal process culminating in multiple court restrictions for the perpetrator.

Callan Brett, 35, appeared before Ipswich Crown Court on Monday 10 March where she received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

Her sentencing package includes completing 20 rehabilitation days and wearing a GPS monitoring tag for six months.

Ipswich Magistrates Court
Oliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The details: The attack took place at approximately 14:30 on 19 June 2023 in Queensland, Shotley, when the victim was unloading shopping from her car.

  • Court documents show Brett approached the woman screaming, before pushing her head against the victim's head, grabbing her hair, shaking her head, and kneeing her in the groin multiple times.

  • Brett unsuccessfully claimed she only kneed the victim once and was acting in self-defence, with the court satisfying itself that Brett was the aggressor.

What's next: The court also imposed a five-year restraining order preventing Brett from contacting the victim.

Once alternative accommodation is found, Brett will be barred from entering the parish of Shotley for the remainder of the restraining order.

For context: Brett was initially found guilty at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on 30 August 2024, but appealed the conviction.

A panel of judges at Ipswich Crown Court dismissed her appeal after a new trial on 21 February, maintaining the original guilty verdict.

In November 2024, Brett was arrested for breaching bail conditions after walking past the victim's home up to 10 times daily, making hand gestures and staring deliberately into the property.

What they're saying: Acting Sergeant Alasdair Nicol said: "This was a completely unprovoked attack which left the victim with a very nasty injury."

"I would like to commend the victim for their bravery over the past 20 months since the incident occurred. It has not been pleasant to continue living in close proximity to her attacker."

The bottom line: The suspended sentence aims to deter Brett from reoffending, while the restraining order and parish ban are designed to provide relief to the victim after a prolonged period of living near her attacker.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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