Embodying the assertive DIY attitude of punk rockers, but placed in a commercial environment, Ben Kidson moves with the times. His music combines modern pop writing and production elements (think harry styles, taylor swift), with the alternative rock energy and arrangement of his heroes, Nirvana.

in 2022/23, Ben’s energetic live show earnt him a spot as a finalist at the Isle of Wight Festival’s ‘New Blood’ Competition, and at the American Express Gold Unsigned competition. If you’ve used Tiktok recently, you’ll see and hear him on an advert for Amex, which has had over 7 million views to date, and if you use Amazon Prime, you’ve likely seen him in ‘Unsigned’, a documentary about the competition itself.

Ben already has a fan in legendary singer Robert Plant, who signed him to the Wolves Records, and helped him get Radio 1 support on his first single ‘Joking’. He performed on the BBC introducing stage at Boardmasters festival in August, with his performance being chosen as one of the few to be broadcast across BBC Southwest as a highlight of the weekend.

THE FEVER DREAMS are a highly energetic five piece rock band from Southampton.

They focus on delivering unforgettable live performances, underlined by their motto: “Have a good time, ALL THE TIME”.

The Fever Dreams began in early 2023 when Southampton guitarist Sam James Duke, “Duke”, approached full-time singer Kieron Cox to discuss writing music together. Kieron had focused a successful 15 year career on solo cover performances and spent 8 years performing full-time on cruise ships, known as one of Royal Caribbean International’s leading lounge entertainers. Kieron had always had a passion for songwriting, but it was Duke’s positive and driven attitude that would really shift his focus. Knowing nothing about each other, they agreed to meet for an evening.

In their first writing session, a spark happened, something clicked. Not only was there a very clear mutual love for classic rock music, but also two different working techniques that complimented each other to bring out the best in them both. In this first session, “Take Me Home” was written.

Kieron and Duke continued to meet every few days for several months, enjoying the creative process together and making song after song. It was never the original plan, but soon they decided it was time to start The Fever Dreams.

Duke shared a house with bass player, Chris John Davis, well known in the city of Southampton and hungry to begin a band project. Chris’s imaginative and powerful bass lines complimented the original demos perfectly.

Duke, working as tattoo artist, had a customer who was also eager to start a band project, Sam MacDaniel – “Maccers”. Maccers showed an contagious love for all rock music, a drive to be the best he can be and a playing style that supported Duke’s lead parts perfectly. Aesthetically pleasing too, being left-handed, whilst providing a rich deep voice to support Kieron’s lyrics.

Whilst recording and releasing their debut EP, Blink Of An Eye, Chris came across established local drummer Jake Morter. Jake met the band for a jam and there was an instant connection. He provided the John Bonham style and energy along with a background in choir and vocal training that would provide tight harmonies for the music. The feel of the music got even stronger, The Fever Dreams were complete.

As they enter the modern world of music, their only goal is to provide audiences with an incredible live experience and witness five mates having a laugh – its infectious after all.

The Fever Dreams are on a mission to bring back good old classic rock and roll. Expect thumping riffs, unique rock vocals, and goose-bumping guitar solos.

Beth Jones is a rising London-born songwriter who draws inspiration from jazz, folk and desert blues. Influenced by Joni Mitchell, Weyes Blood & Billie Holiday, her sets are intimate and centred on minimalistic arrangements, lyricism & interweaving melodies. Returning from a South African tour at the beginning of the year with new material and joined by her trombonist, her music has been described as “milk & honey”, ethereal and playing with dissonance.

Anthony Di Biase is a captivating solo artist hailing from South West London; a unique ability to craft vivid and evocative imagery in his songwriting which resonates with many listeners - exploring themes of love, desire and isolation. Anthony’s performances are heartfelt and delivered with raw passion.