Happy New Year! 2018 was full to the brim with great gigs in Reading, so here’s to another year of sweaty shows, new bands to see, massive acts not to miss, festivals, and an all round good time! Start your year off well with our pick of the five best gigs happening in Reading in January 2019.
The Keep Cats
Rising Sun Arts Centre, Saturday 19 January, £5 on the door
Reading’s DIY gig collective Club UFO return for their second gig headlined by undeniably exciting band The Keep Cats. With endless energy, sing-along riffs, and a stage presence to be in awe of The Keep Cats prove they are one of the most exciting bands playing locally right now. Support comes from the chilled indie jazz vibes of Indica Palm Radio, who have just released their debut album, and opening act The Petties.
Readipop Festival Launch Party: Soup (Jurassic 5)
Purple Turtle, Saturday 19 January, Sign up for queue jump
The beloved Readipop Festival launches its 2019 season with a party headlined by Jurassic 5 member, Soup, on their first ever UK solo show. Soup is a legend in hip hop, not only for his work with Jurassic 5, but also for his work with Wu-Tang Clan and Mobb Deep and his debut album ‘Free, White & 21’, released last year. Support comes from local MC Ash the Author and Jazmine Flowers.
Cancer Bats
Sub89, Friday 25 January, book tickets
Hardcore punk legends and Reading Festival veterans Cancer Bats return to Reading to knock down the walls with their brutal, infectious, metal-infused hardcore tunes. Having graced the main stage at Reading Festival, they’re now set to play the intimate Sub89 and are sure to blow everyone’s minds. This is sure to be a sweaty one! They’re joined by Bleed From Within and Underside.
Cascade
Readipop Studios, Saturday 26 January, £5, book tickets
It’s a whopper of a line up at this one. Headlined by Cascade, whose sound harks back to Britpop and more contemporary UK rock acts, all while giving it a fresh edge for crowds to go mental to. Support comes from the fuzzy riffs of Eat Daddy Eat, Reading newcomers Reliant, and singer-songwriter Pem. Loads of variety and all for £5, it’s a steal.
BBC Introducing: Citrus / The Dead Gentlemen
Purple Turtle, Wednesday 30 January, free entry
Citrus have been turning heads recently after slots around the country and a show at Valeras Presents in Reading last year. Their indie-rock tunes will make you wanna dance, jump and have a good time. Support comes from four piece fuzz rock band The Dead Gentlemen,who are sure to win over fans at the Turtle.
