My continued exploration of the music scene here in Exeter led me to revisit Exeter Phoenix for a day festival called ‘Southwest Does It Best’ on Saturday 8th March. The aim of the event was to showcase the music that is being produced and created locally in the Southwest, celebrating 5 years of Studio 54 in Exeter. The line up featured a variety of artists, including student bands as well as local bands from across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and South Wales.
The sheer number of artists on display meant that their set times were limited but each one managed to stir up an atmosphere regardless. One highlight was the band 3 Days of Wonder who offered a high energy performance from the second they stepped on stage that clearly captivated the crowd and got everyone moving. Similarly, King Louis’ dynamic set cemented them as one of the alternative rock bands to watch out for in future. The level of musical talent demonstrated by Ptolemy on guitar in particular, was so astounding that one crowd member remarked to me that his skill was reminiscent of Alex Lifeson of the band Rush.
While between sets on stage, the bar became an additional hub of music featuring more artists. The buzz of people talking and enjoying the music made for a more intimate affair which really showcased the community feel of the event and of the music scene in Exeter as a whole. An artist that stood out to me was Francesa Brown whose haunting cover of Mazzy Star’s ‘Fade Into You’ perfectly showcased her dreamy, effortless vocal style.
The night culminated in a headlining set from King Cerulean, a nine-piece pop funk band based in Cardiff. They brought colour and fun to Exeter Phoenix, both in their outfits and their music, creating an experimental and atmospheric soundscape. The complex rhythms and layers created by the great number of instruments used made for an immersive experience. They got the whole room dancing to their funky sound!
Overall, Southwest Does It Best achieved what it set out to do: establish Exeter as a place of real potential to nurture budding musicians and creatives. It is so exciting to think about how the music scene will grow and flourish in the coming years with artists of this calibre collaborating and creating in the area.
If you’re interested in exploring the music scene here a little more, I would highly recommend looking out for events at Exeter Phoenix as they often have new band showcases to promote grassroots musicians.
