A celebration of a decade of live music and radio was held in Reading’s Purple Turtle bar … and there’s another event coming soon.
Radio Wigwam is an independent online radio station that celebrates unsigned talent, and has done so since 2016. Bands and musicians can upload their tracks, which are then broadcast 24 hours a day, seven days a week via digital radio, its website and an app.
Thanks to generous supporters, it has no on-air adverts, meaning it can play non-stop music in shows hosted by dedicated and talented DJs: from professional hosts to curators and musicians who want to share their love for their favourite tracks, all from independent bands across the world.
Its website promises: “We are not afraid to be different in our quest to support independent music from all over the world. We don’t take ourselves too seriously but we are deadly serious about the music and artists we support.”
On Tuesday, 30 June, Reading’s Purple Turtle was the venue for Grassroots Connect, a Live music night featuring networking and artist sessions to connect independent artists with the industry and give Reading audiences a great night out. They say it is built for real conversations, real feedback, and the growth of the grassroots scene.
The Grassroots Connect website notes: “We believe grassroots music matters. It’s where careers begin because without grassroots music there will be no stars of tomorrow. It’s where scenes are built. It’s where creativity thrives without compromise.”
The line-up included Sonic Whip, an energetic three-piece rock band from the Netherlands that promises dancing riffs and a thumping, air-shifting rhythm section. They recently supported Skunk Anansie’s tour and are about to release an album called Sonic Whip.
They had a whale of a time. In a post on social media, they noted: “Reading! What a party on a Tuesday night. Thank you for coming again; it means the world to us.”
On Sunday, 5 July, they will be performing on home turf at the Hootchie Koe Festival.
The band’s website is: Sonicwhipband.com
Emerson Band came from Fleet. With a major influence from 60s and 70s pop music, a focus on songcraft, and a sound reminiscent of indie bands of the noughties; Emerson presents a nostalgic, refreshing sound.
The band’s Linktree is: https://linktr.ee/emerson.band99
The third act also played some indie rock: Cheap Suits brought their big energy and no-nonsense style to the Gun Street venue.
For more on the band, log on to: https://radiowigwam.co.uk/bands/cheap-suits/
After the event, Radio Wigwam posted on social media about the importance of Reading to its story.
“It’s where we’ve built relationships with incredible venues, connected with artists, supported local events, and become part of a thriving grassroots music community,” the team noted.
“From Purple Turtle to Wokingham Festival and everything in between, Reading has helped shape Radio Wigwam into what it is today.
“That’s why we’re proud to celebrate this milestone here, in one of the places that means the most to us.”
The next Grassroots Connect night is on Thursday, 9 July, at The Purple Turtle again.
The line-up features Two Tonne Machete, The Winonas, and A Dirty Soul. The fun starts at 7.30pm.
For more, log on to: https://www.purpleturtlebar.com
Pictures: Dijana Capan/DVision Images
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