Irregularly I share a music video to our Facebook page with the status “song of the day,” or week, or whenever, as if it’s a daily occurrence. When the reality is it’s a big, fat fib on my part, it’s only when I happen to find such a video and can be arsed to share it. What-cha gonna do, sue me?
So, just in case your lawyer says you have a case, I thought I’d streamline this sporadic idea for 2021, make it an actual feature on the site rather than a Facebook post, and show off that I know what long words like “sporadic” mean.
Little more gone into it than this, you should be used to it by now. I’m not going to review them, just embed them here for your own appraisal and entertainment purposes. Potentially, it’ll be a groundbreakingily breif post, a simple but effective phenomenon, and something I can do without missing the Simpsons.
The challenge is consistency; whether I actually stick to the idea or, like others, it’ll be a flash in the pan. Who knows, this could be the start of something beautiful, this could be the thing they’re talking about in decades to come. A holographic Ken Bruce could be asking “what was the very first Devizine Song of the Day” in a Pop Master 200 years from now.
And you can answer it with who I bestow this honour, Atari Pilot. They’ll be revelling in the triumph of the hour if it wasn’t lockdown, I bet.
History in the making then, the only issue I foresee is I over-waffle any old crap, which is, incidentally, not what’s happening now and rarely does here; I had to explain myself, didn’t I?
Okay, I get message; here it is then, enjoy the tune, enjoy the rest of your evening. Good job, carry on.
- From Nothing Rhymes With Orange and John Otway to Scummy Mummies and Milton Jones; Devizes Arts Festival Celebrates 40 Years with an Amazing Lineup
Featured Image: Helen Polaxpix
What has Devizes’ greatest millennial musical export, England rugby player Jodie Ounsley’s ghost writer, some scummy mummies, a professor of biology at the University of Sussex, and a world poetry slam champion all have in common? Yep, usually not a great deal, but they’re all among a stellar lineup for this year’s Devizes Arts Festival, and it’s their fortieth anniversary…..
Forty years and Devizes Arts Festival has gone through some changes, yet continues to offer the town a unique and differing variety of world class celebrities, musicians, comedians, artists and all manner of inspiring people. Make no mistake, we LOVE Devizes Arts Festival with big, bold capslock; happy 40th birthday!
This year the festival runs from 29th May till June 24th. The committee have already announced the headliners, and Devizes Retailers and Independents let the cat out of a bag which I promised I’d keep my cake hole shut about; that our very own Nothing Rhymes With Orange will play a homecoming at the Corn Exchange on Saturday 13th June! And thankfully, there’s loads more to reveal about what’s also going down for the town.
I’ve found it excruciating to have kept schtum about Devizes’ greatest musical export since The Hoax, Nothing Rhymes With Orange returning, who, while some years ago produced a phenomenon in the Devizes area I likened to Beatlemania, are now studying at Bristol and have had the same effect nationwide. I think this is a brilliant move for the festival, which often suffers with the public wonky presumption it’s a Saga holiday entertainment venue. Producing the widest variety of arts and entertainment in Devizes, Devizes Arts Festival volunteers work tirelessly through the season, preparing and hosting this extravaganza, and there’s something for everyone here. Examples? Yes, mate, I’m not going to reel off details of the entire program, which will be out soon, but there’s plenty of secrets I can leak, so keep reading…..
So, headliners, be art punnyman off the telebox, Milton Jones, on Friday 12th June; he makes me look sane, but he’s hilarious, I’m just mildly laughable. I know a certain salsa group who will welcome London’s premier salsa orchestra, delivering an irresistible night of Cuban‑inspired rhythm and dance; Salseology! I also know many in town will welcome John Otway and Wild Willy Barrett at the Cons Club on Monday 8th June.
Those outrageous Scummy Mummies will make a welcomed return, and Midsomer Murders and Foyle’s War writer and producer Anthony Horowitz pays Devizes a visit on 1st June. But these are just the tip of the iceberg.
There’s conservationist, passionate story teller and “human swan,” Sacha Dench, African-American concert pianist Beatrice Nicholas, BBC Sports journalist Becky Grey talks ghostwriting, Patrick Grant is on clothes. Bee specialist Professor of Biology at University of Sussex, Dave Goulson talks on saving our insects.
You can watch Portuguese classical guitarist and lutenist Fábio Fernandes, listen to the life of Derek Jarman, and join Wiltshire cameraman Nick Upton for a fascinating account of his life and work capturing wildlife.
Clare Durham and Paul Martin to explore the world of collectors and collecting. Book plugs from television and radio journalist Grahame Lloyd, acclaimed author of six novels, Charlotte Philby, and climate activist and the co-founder of Transition Network, Rob Hopkins. The Wharf Theatre presents The Secret Life of Enid Blyton, and there’s a world poetry slam champion Harry Baker coming to town.
More music from The Robert Vincent Band, shanty-punk folk with Man The Lifeboats, all‑string jazz quartet Swing from Paris, and organist John Challenger.
Free fringe events are aplenty, John Handby talks on AI, brilliant Bristol‑based songwriter Elly Hopkins is playing Hillworth Park Cafe, Old Baby Mackerel play high‑energy, foot‑stomping bluegrass at the British Lion, The Rigmarollers with a unique take on the blues, and local writers Vanessa Tanner and Louisa Davison have an open mic for poetry and prose at The Black Swan.
Plenty of inspiring walks as usual, and Have-a-go workshops also make a return, with ones for singalong country, memoir writing, phone photography, and sketching at the wonderful White Chalk Gallery. And Erlestoke Prison presents an art exhibition by the inmates; what more do you want?!
We cannot wait for June, and hope to have a “Devizine Assemble,” to bring you as much coverage as possible; if you would like to volunteer as a reporter, do drop me a message. Now we await the box office to open; keep in the know by bookmarking their website, HERE.
- Only The Brave Burn The Midnight Oil
Hurrah, at last! Only The Brave is the debut song from Burn The Midnight Oil’s revised lineup; something I’ve been anticipating since watching them rehearse at Devizes’ HK Studios, just before last year’s Awards. But if my expectations of a recording from this new Devizes based phenomenon was perched on the summit of the highest mountain, gaining a sneaky preview before its release on Friday (13th March) far from disappointed, in fact I’m now soaring above clouds….
I know pressing a CD is a financial risk for any upcoming band against bunging it on streaming platforms, but I’d urge them to go for it. In the relatively short time Burn The Midnight Oil have been gigging under this current format, they’ve become the kind of band you’d see live and make haste for their merch stand in hope to return home grasping a piece of what you just experienced. Based on this first of a few singles coming out of Martin Spencer’s Badger Set Studio in Potterne, a compilation album would be a real keepsake.
It’s hasty and gearing, a rich and refreshing design on a timeless formula; the folk-rock-blues combo conveying enduring, moreish and matured pop, with that driving beat, with that irresistible rolling guitar riff, and with the smooth-as-velvet female vocals soothing a biting narrative. Causal listening it’s feelgood, but in depth it’s fighting against the odds and rising above adversities.
It’s the song for the comeback scene of an epic movie. You’re on the edge of your seat, identifying with the character, either relating your own experiences, or more simply distinguishing their plight is their drive, but you cannot sympathise, because like Tina Turner, Gloria Gaynor, or Natasha Bedingfield, she’s weaponised it, risen above it regardless, and taken control of her own destiny; Alanis Morissette of Devizes.
Yet the most marvellous thing about Only the Brave is, Chrissy “Steen” Chapman can equally hold the vocal power of any of the aforementioned female big hitters, kick the meaning behind the song into touch, and her backing band accompanies her with such tight precision, it’s something to behold. In essence, it has the perfect combination for the memorable and relevant tune you won’t mind having stuck in your head!
I cannot wait to hear the others, but for now, pre-save this beauty HERE. Find them rootin and tootin their thing live by following them on Facebook, HERE. Attend CapFest as seen below, for their next Devizes show.
- An Endless Summer with Braydon-Lee’s New Single
If, inspired by the likes of Ed Sheeran and James Arthur, the majority of Gen Z loves a good power ballad, the beginnings of the next generation, Alpha, seem to be following suit. And if that’s the thing, fifteen-year-old Calne singer-songwriter Braydon Lee was already in the forefront locally, but in my unprofessional opinion, his second single newly released, Endless Summer, provides the truckload of potential necessary to make this a nationwide phenomenon……
Oi kids, we had heartbreakingly emotional roller-coaster power ballads in the eighties too, you know; practically invented ‘em?! Just with a lot more guitars and hairspray! Yet, I’ve been reconditioned by gigging with my daughter, where Noah Kahan at the O2 impressed me on a Springsteen level, into appreciating these soulful melodic beats, derived, debatably, of folktronica and contemporary RnB. If I’ve acclaimed anyone on the local scene for adopting this in a manner marketable on an international level, it has to be Swindon’s Brandon Clarke, aka Weather. It just so happens, Brandon has produced this track, and together, Braydon and Brandon, their dedication illuminates on this ingenious and poignantly buoyant love song.
This is an absolutely wonderful tune, a hefty guitar riff bassline drifting you along a crestfallen narrative with euphoric backing and Braydon’s eloquent vocals shining through. Braydon has penned a sublime anthem to pluck any heartstring, and he delivers it with the passion and emotion of a professional singer twenty years further down their line.
It’s this bucketload of unpatronising top marks from me, which though I thought I’d seen him before, searched my own blog and came up trumps, (I caught the end of his superb appearance at last year’s FullTone Festival) I predict one day soon, no one will need to search for Braydon Lee; they’ll all know him, love him, and have brought his merch from the O2 shop!
“It was my YouTube cover of Sam Barber’s Straight and Narrow that started getting me attention,” Braydon explained. Now, I’m just a two-bit blogger not wishing to put stars in anyone’s eyes, but while running off a quick cover will gain attention, Braydon needs to concentrate on carving an original style, with the noticeable hook, and herein lies the groundbreaking moment, Endless Summer accomplishes this.
You can pen a thousand good songs, but finding that awakening hook is key. An Endless Summer, working outdoors through the night, I like this idea, although this is metaphorically akin to the Summer of ‘69 when Bryan wished the season would go on forever, so Braydon might romantically hook his duck, I reckon. And on those levels this works, and will gain more than the attention of his heart’s desire. The first geezer I’m sending this review to will be Mr Threlfeall at BBC Introducing, hoping Braydon is already on his radar.
It comes with a professionally shot video created by Swindon’s 1988 Media, and as a package this has impressed me. I urge you to pay it some attention, or at least pass this message onto your offspring; Braydon is one to watch….
- Tour Des Frites: Four Dauntseys’ Sixth-Formers Awarded Travel Scholarship Cycle from School to Bonn, Germany
Four Dauntsey’s Sixth-Formers have been awarded travel scholarships, and plan to cycle all the way from their school to Bonn in Germany, shortly after completing their A-level exams this summer. Helping at food banks, documenting their journey, and rating chips along the way!
The group, Flo Lee, Will Fittock, Tom Sharples and Mika Jessel said, “while simply a group of friends, we also bring a very good physical ability to the table. We have successfully completed our Gold DofE Expeditions together in a group, enjoying our experience together.”
Both Will and Flo have completed in and won, respectively, the DW race, and won, respectively, the Brecon’s challenge together with Tom. Tom is a nationally ranking cross country runner. “While all of us enjoy and have done varying amounts of cycling,” they said, “Mika has prior experience in bikepacking through both Europe and Morrocco.”
Using EuroVelo Cycle Network, they have planned this route themselves. “While it is not perfect,” Flo explains, “it is the best option to find established cycle paths across Europe.”
The direct route from Devizes to Bonn takes just under 1000km, taking the ferry from Dover to Calais. It will take them through London, the French and Belgian coasts, the Netherlands, and finally, Germany.
The other countries are less of a concern than England. Flo continued, “Belgium and especially the Netherlands are famous for their bike infrastructure and the route we are taking through Germany goes along the Rhein river, which, speaking from experience, is easy cycling.”
“If we take two weeks to do this, including two rest days, that comes out to just about 80km a day, with manageable elevation. Judging by previous experience and the fitness of the group, this is easily doable. Keeping this in mind that we will try to keep our daily goals flexible in case this estimate is wrong. However, with both interval and long ride training, we are positive this won’t be the case.”
Their aim is to inspire other young people their age to take on ambitious bikepacking challenges, and to show what is possible with determination, planning and teamwork.
Along our route, they will also be volunteering at food banks across England, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. “We are committed to making this journey not only an adventure, but a socially responsible one,” Flo told me.
This will be happening in summer 2026, thus “bringing Mika home” after they finish their A Levels, “which will reduce his carbon emissions and let us have one last adventure together as a group,” Flo said. “Ideally, we will leave a day or two after speech day (6/7th July) and arriving in Bonn two weeks later (19/20th July.)”
As part of their project, they will be producing two short films; an article documenting the journey, and regular social media content.
“We are going to document our adventure,” Flo explained, “using our phones and my Sony camera to make two short films. The first will be to document our trip for nostalgia and to show our family and friends, however the second will be related to our volunteering. We will interview those people we meet during our volunteering, hopefully both volunteers and those in need, to help spread awareness for those who are unaware to the extent of the poverty and food waste problem throughout Europe.”
You may remember, Flo has published some articles on Devizine, including youth gig reviews and including interviews, of which we are of course very grateful for. Though she hasn’t so much recently, because Flo has been rightly concentrating on her exams, we will give her a big golden key, access to the platform so she they can publish their adventures along the way!
But why, dare I ask, are they calling their Instagram account called ‘Tour des Frites 2026?!’ “To follow our progress,” Flo explained “we will make a public chip-rating Instagram account. We will showcase ratings online, hopefully gaining traction and potentially showing the highs and lows of our expedition. The idea comes from the fact, that especially the Belgians, are particularly proud of their Fritten!”
“The chips will be rated out of fifty, in categories on crispiness, creaminess, cut, coating and colour, character and presentation, with four extra points if it stays crispy when cold and tastes as good as it looks. We think that this can be a fun way of documenting the cultural side of our trip, while enjoying some delicious meals along the way!”
Camping in local campsites, using lightweight tents and trying to gain sponsorship from different cycling companies, will hopefully keep it in budget. They will be cycling for two weeks straight, which I don’t even want to think about, but we wish them all the best of luck and look forward to hearing about their adventures!
Follow the Tour de Frites on Instagram, HERE.
- Wiltshire Business Leader to Host Free International Women’s Day AI Webinar to Prevent Women Being “Left Behind” in Tech Shift
Leading Wiltshire digital entrepreneur Natalie Luckham, AI Educator and founder of award-winning Wiltshire social media consultancy Naturally Social is hosting a free “Introduction to AI” webinar this International Women’s Day to help women across the county understand artificial intelligence – and ensure they are not left behind as the technology reshapes workplaces and homes….
The webinar event is aimed at women across Wiltshire, from business owners and freelancers to employees, returners to work, and those simply curious about AI’s growing influence in everyday life.
The one-hour online session, taking place at midday on International Women’s Day (8 March), will offer a practical and accessible introduction to artificial intelligence. Titled around this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” the webinar will demystify AI by covering:
· What AI actually is (and what it isn’t)
· How large language models are built
· The risks, bias and ethical considerations
· Real-life demonstrations of useful applications at work and home
· How to prompt AI tools effectively
· Where human judgment remains essential
The session will include live demonstrations and a Q&A, allowing attendees to ask questions in a supportive environment.
Artificial intelligence adoption is accelerating across industries, from marketing and finance to healthcare and education. Yet studies continue to show that women are underrepresented in AI development and adoption, raising concerns about a widening gender confidence and skills gap.
Natalie says the webinar is about empowerment, not hype. “So many women I speak to have experimented with AI but say, ‘I’ve played with it — I just don’t really get it.’
“If we don’t understand how these tools work – their strengths, their limitations, their risks – we risk stepping back from the conversation entirely. My goal is simple: to give women the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions, ask better questions, and participate fully in the future of work.”
The session aims to demonstrate the potential and the pitfalls of AI, helping women approach the technology critically and confidently rather than feeling overwhelmed or excluded.
The timing reflects growing national conversations around AI regulation, workplace transformation and digital skills development.
The webinar has been created in response to increasing local demand for clear, jargon-free guidance on AI. Natalie has spent the past year delivering AI training to businesses and organisations across the Southwest and says the same concern keeps emerging: people are experimenting, but without real understanding.
Registration is free but spaces are limited. Women can reserve their place HERE
- The Return of The Fold Music Venue in Devizes
If your average Tuesday night in Devizes might feel like The Day The Earth Stood Still, it certainly felt this way for me yesterday; I was at an open mic, down The Fold…..
Yeah, you read that right, the back room of The Lamb which launched Kieran’s Sheer Music a decade or so ago, a Devizes to Trow-Vegas success story many hold fond memories of. Since then it seems it’s been rather dormant up there, so I’m sure it will come as a delight to many to hear this once popular, intimate space is reopening, because this open mic night is only the beginning.
The open mic will continue, each first Tuesday of the month, and the weekends hopes to see regular affordable ticketed gigs. I’ve got to stop saying “Tuesday” now, because in my mind I’m voicing it as Miranda, probably because I’m a smidgen over-excited to bring you this fantastic news!
The project has been masterminded by Sally at the Lamb, who has renovated the Fold, and Josh Oldfield, who will be running nights there. Furthermore, on occasions when Josh is gigging elsewhere, Devizine is allowed to use it, and in a joint venture, we hope to bring some great gigs to town.
The legend that is Gaz Brookfield returns to The Fold in a blaze of glory on the 5th June, with our faithful JP in support. But the Fold opens earlier; officially on Friday 27th March, when piano-driven pop-rock trio, Bluebeard and the Desperate Hours headline with JP again in support. This one is free, save a tip jar for the acts.
Devizine’s first night hosting there will be Friday 24th April.
I’m sorting it out now, do not fear! My concept is to bring in some exciting new and original acts to Devizes, or at the very least ones who have rarely played here, despite me bashing on about them within the pages of Devizine! Starting with an acoustic folk night; save the date, for we have two of Chippenham’s finest young singer-songwriters, Meg and Seren promising to play for us on the 24th April.
Meg, Image by Kiesha Details on this and other gigs at the Fold will follow. For now let’s just say last night was a great start to reinventing the venue. A humble and hospitable evening, as most open mics are; shame I rarely get to attend any because they usually occur on weekday evenings.
With performers at opposite sides of the timeline, a promising acoustic guitar sporting Billy went first, followed by Ronnie unplugged with an electric. Eyebrows were raised further when young bassist, Meadow, backed Ed Dowdeswell, stepson of Jamie R Hawkins, who, though containing elements of brilliant songwriting and riffs clearly rubbed off from Jamie, is carving a name for himself independently, and quite rightly so.
A smidgen more mature musicians, Jim and Ray, blessed us with some folk-blues covers. And between them and our wonderful Sammi Evans, Sammi’s son Kristian also sang quite wonderfully for the very first time; the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Sammi is always a delight to see live, but her set ended abruptly due to guitar string snap, and golden axeman Brian took his place and pumped some gorgeous blues covers our way; Big Mamma Thornton, though, nicely placed sir!
Young Amelia may have been penultimate on the roster, but was the ultimate voice, and known throughout the free world of Devizes, Gordy and Tim polished this fantastic inaugural reopening of The Fold off expertly. I left feeling this will be something very special added to our busy live music circuit here in Devizes, and I hope to see you there soon!
Grand opening with Bluebeard and the Desperate Hours and JP Oldfield will be free on 27th March. The next open mic is due April 2nd. We take over with Meg and Seren on 24th April, Gaz arrives on 5th June, and there’s more to follow; exciting news! Open mics are just nice, aren’t they?!
- Dulcet Tones Rock Back to Bassett!
You’re a teenage Tom Cruise, at least you wish you were, but stay with me on this! Your parents are away, you’re home alone with dad’s liquor cabinet. For certain, you’re going to get into some risky business as the movie progresses, but your initial impulse is to dance around the house in a shirt and pants. I’ve no interest in seeing you in your pants, Tom, what makes the scene so iconic is surely the song choice. Because Bob Segar was bang on the money; experimentation in music is good, but the scene wouldn’t have the same impact if he was listening to Jean-Michel Jarre. Sometimes you do need some old time rock n roll…..
Now, imagine Bob never recorded that song; what song would you pick instead? Options, people, options aplenty, but here, take the 49 to Swindon and try Dulcet Tones for size. Since a single from last May, they’ve a debut EP, Back To Bassett; okay, it’s got a few local references including, bizarrely, an Avebury-Chuck Berry link, but it’s old time rock n roll, at least “rock” if you’re nitpicking, still, the kind of timeless music that soothes the soul.
A bit of delay in mentioning this, apologies to the band, frontman Andrew McLennan, lead guitarist Nick Osman, bassist Darryl Wilks and drummer Rob Cooper, but it makes for perfect air guitar practice from beginning to end! Embellished by wailing guitar riffs to make ZZ Top blush, driving drum rolls, and that archetypal hoarse vocal rebel yell, the opening tune, As I Am, doesn’t wait for you to adjust your funky pants, but being the simple premise is taking them as they are or not at all, the choice is a no brainer; this absolutely rocks!
In essence it’s “good ol’ boy’s music,” windows down summery driving rock, wind in your beard, and it’s more fun than deeply meaningful. Hold On stomps with elements of Tom Petty, or maybe harder, think Aerosmith, Lynyrd Skynyrd, but has the on-the-road narrative to mirror what I’m trying to say, I hope!
Three quid for four solid tunes means we’re driving to the halfway house. Dream Home soothes the tempo, there’s notions of Guns & Roses at their most sentimental. Oh, this is cool; if dulcet tones implies sweet, melodious, and pleasing, this tune proves they’ve named themselves appropriately.
Title track comes last, does it need saying Back to Bassett has some local references? Not outright slating the town, nor as the concept extends to other local urban areas, like Swindon’s Old Town, rather it suggests they’d prefer to chill out in a more rural and spiritual setting, an adventure citing our ancient stones and monuments. In subject it’s obviously not going to work well with the Americana of the previous tunes, making this one sound more akin to British psychedelic rock, weighty and significantly Levellers.
Back to Bassett as a track was a pleasant surprise, and proves Dulcet Tones are no one trick pony. Back to Bassett as an EP is loudly and proudly moreish, using the tried and tested formula of classic rock subgenres, like the California sound of Buffalo Springfield or Crosby, Stills, & Nash, and heaps of rock and roll revival, yet with the finale, there’s adherents of neopagan rock.
I’ve seen their band name listed gigging about the circuit, Swindon Shuffle I think most, but now I need to grow some hair and make a beeline. You could, if you so wished, say I’m old-fashioned, say I’m over the hill. I’d rebuke it without too much botheration, because I keep myself eclectic through personal want and need in writing this blog, but there’s many occasions when I contemplate Bob’s words and agree; today’s music ain’t got the same soul, and go for that old-time rock ‘n’ roll. When I do, now thankfully I have Dulcet Tones; you should too, you old rocker!
- Talk in Code Headlined Devizes Winter of Festive Ales
Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts key into the town’s majority demographic for its first annual event of the year, mature couples, with an affection for sampling the widest varieties of beers and ales. In this The Winter of Festive Ales may function parochially, but is not only extremely popular and is revitalising from the torpor of winter, it also raises vital funds for DOCA to stage more family-driven events freely throughout the coming year…..
Cabaret and music acts usually perform, yet are secondary in importance to the sampling of the booze for the average amateur connoisseur attending; no issue there, because that’s the ethos of the event. In reviewing an event my top priority is awarded if it ‘does what it says on the tin.’ The Winter of Festive Ales at the Corn Exchange received top marks in that department, we tried maple syrup and blueberry stouts, mango cider and plenty of other interesting and delicious fusions selected by Stealth Brewery, The Southgate and The Pour House, and Padfield Porkies pies are undeniably knockout.
With cabaret it can therefore be quirky and perhaps out on a limb, which I’d consider a deliberately lethargic roller-skater, a ragamuffin Basil Brush styled wolf, and a chequered suit bloke putting four ping-pong balls in his mouth is; the drink influences greater belly laughs. But for the music, one might opt for the demographic’s preferred genres, of blues or roots driven prog rock.
Being honest the fact Talk in Code headlined this year surprised but delighted me, with their original eighties-nineties indie-pop fusion, but I didn’t need ponder if this was the best choice, because, yet again, Talk in Code proved they fit into any box, without even having to change their set to suit. They more simply, do what they do, and it’s infectious to all.
Said this before, where Talk in Code can charm a food festival, fete, or anywhere from a Pride festival to a bike meet. They come up trumps at FullTone, supporting an eighties tribute like The Pet Shop Boys Actually, and equally thrill at grassroots venues such as Bradford-on-Avon’s Three Horseshoes. Though I might advise it is best to see Talk in Code in Swindon where their fanbase is largest and the vibes alight most, for every random event across the nation they display their sublime sound, and forthcoming personas at, the positivity in their style rubs off, building to a phenomenon, known only too well by their adoring fanbase, the Talkers.
You can find the Talkers at any Talk in Code gig, they reside at the front attired in merch, encouraging other punters to dance. Else, afterwards they’ll chat with band members like family. Unlike a pop band who might hide in a green room, they mingle. Aside from the hive mind of their fans, though, there’s a dedicated corporate identity, a brand with clever marketing which supports the music. This completes the Talk in Code effect, displayed triumphantly, even here, at the Winter of Festive Ales in Devizes last night.
The event splits into two ticketed sessions, one quieter in the afternoon for the real ale connoisseurs to rap about body, fruitiness and alcohol content, the later evening session more lively and entertaining. Yep, Talk in Code will deliver this with bells on.
For the average punter whose kids have likely fled the nest, the early start time of the evening session might suit as more ale can, and will be consumed. For us with teenagers in need of picking up from Saturday jobs, feeding and watering, it unfortunately meant we missed The Wholesome Soul Duo and some cabaret. And I was looking forward to this soul duo, who often take the early Sunday gig at The Southgate, having yet to cross them off my must-see list. I know a raffle must come towards the end, but if I remain slightly dubious about the arrangement of acts, thinking Talk in Code could’ve finalised the evening, rather than winding it down too early, and The Wholesome Soul Duo be pushed to a later slot than 6pm, that’s only due to personal commitments. It’s a quality, well-organised and enjoyable event with plenty of time for quantities of alcohol consumption, which confirms Devizes is a town of culture; drinking culture at least! Whatever the outcome of an award, residents here know it is.
And this is the just opening, the beginning of a year of seasonal events across the town, either blossoming or established, many of which, with a sprinkling of dedicated volunteers, DOCA will stage, host and gift to, not only the population, but attracting visitors from afar. For this alone, we love and thank everyone who comes together to make DOCA a thing. The Winter of Festive Ales is vital to the funding of it, and remains to be a fantastic, Devizes fashioned occasion worthy of your hard-earned cash.
- The Munster Returns to Slam-Dunk Wiltshire Council Budget!
Well, I admit, the Black Dog Crossroads has reopened with shiny new traffic lights and looks pretty groovy, as far as road junctions look groovy. But I will forever be flabbergasted how the Wiltshire councillor for The Lavingtons, Dominic Muns, who signed off the project, concentrated his announcement of the project with political point-scoring rather than safety….
Claiming this “wouldn’t have happened” with any other specific party at the helm of Wiltshire Council, particularly spatting The Greens with certain bitterness, was hearsay. The project was signed off prior to the Lib Dem takeover, so we can never be certain if it would or would not have been approved. This was a red light warning, altering me to the notion Dominic Muns enjoys stirring the pot, but whilst I respect that along with his motivation to respond, I remain sceptical the sauce in his pot is spiced with nothing more than bamboozlement.
A few other Wiltshire Councillors have got their knickers in a twist over the new council budget, and would-bes too, like lone ranger Devizes former Reform candidate Malcom Cupis, who loves spreading his verbal faeces on the Devizes Issue (But Bitter) Facebook group, and, reading between his lines of his recent nonsensical rant, seemed to approve fascism provided he could get his bins emptied weekly. But Muns, well, he called in AI and went to town on his Facebook page with a post yesterday which should come with a content warning; it reads like the boy who cried wolf is writing for the Daily Fail.
The question remains, how twisted can one’s knickers get before they ride up the bum crack with a plethora of brown stained untruths, or at the very least, skid-marked exaggerations?!
Omitting mentioning the £6 billion “sink hole” the Liberal Democrat led council inherited County Hall with, and all its gubbings from decades of Tory reign, like, say, the worst social care provisions and roads which look like they belonged on a battlefield at the Somme, Muns said “Wiltshire deserves better than this,” and suggested their “alternative budget took on no debt and delivered a £20m better position over 3 years,” adding emojis of a bar chart and suitcase for the benefit of, what I can only deem, his followers unable to read, or an imaginary artistic licence.
“Cutting spending on our road network” and “hiking car parking charges, including a huge increase on Sundays,” were on his hitlist, “cutting black bin collections to once every 3 weeks, cutting the Parish Steward Scheme,” and “cutting the Parish Emergency Assistance Scheme” were others he is disgruntled about.
But whoa there Munster, is it a random hike, or does the 4.99% rise include the 2% adult social care precept, which most councils are using because care costs are rising sharply?
Aren’t the three-weekly black bin collections part of a shift toward higher recycling rates, which many other councils have already adopted?
Is this really as unprecedented or uniquely reckless as you’re suggesting? On highways and the parish schemes, can you point to the specific budget lines showing outright removal rather than reprioritisation or consultation? This might help residents to see the details rather than broad claims.
And you couldn’t get broader than when he added in the cascading comments, “I use the term “Independent” loosely since they’re actually all on the Lib Dem payroll and merely masquerading as independent councillors to win local votes.”
Ooh, I had to ask for proof to this crazy accusation, with which he returned with, “you can check the list of SRAs (Special Responsibility Allowances) and see which councillors are receiving additional money for certain roles. It’s public record.”
Big Rod Stewart sized butt; receiving a Special Responsibility Allowance as an independent councillor does not put them on a Lib Dem (or any specific party) payroll. SRAs are paid directly by Wiltshire Council based on recommendations from an independent panel for specific roles like committee chairs, regardless of political affiliation.
Another unfortunate visitor to his Facebook page asked on this thread, if he was “saying my Wiltshire Councillor Ernie Clark – Independent in Hilperton is a LibDem?!”
The Munster responded, “we were made aware of a written contract drafted by the Lib Dem administration and Independent councillors which promised paid roles in exchange for support. Independent councillors are currently in those same paid roles. Make of that what you will.”
Cllr Dominic Muns for The Lavingtons seems to be making quite a lot of “what you will” out of the Council budget, but still, failed to answer the question to his accusation, which comes over just a smidgen slanderous. He says I’m confused, and “certain roles are appointed directly by the Lib Dem administration, others by a vote of the committee which is apportioned to mirror overall political balance,” perhaps he’s right; I’m confused as to how this puts an independent councillor on a Lib Dem payroll.
If, as he said, the Conservatives’ alternative delivered a £20m better position over three years with no debt, where is that £20m coming from, and what assumptions were used, I wonder, but not enough to keep me up at night! For if it’s genuinely stronger, he could show the workings so residents can judge. Budgets are about trade-offs. If we’re going to criticise decisions, let’s do it with the full numbers on the table.
As I patiently wait for the green light at the shiny new Black Dog Crossroads which looks like it belongs in a different county, I think it’s best to wait for peace of mind, and perhaps we should wait for the effects of this budget too, before casting assumptions.
Face it, the only credible thing about his post of yesterday is that “Wiltshire deserves better than this,” yet, poop scooping the doggie doings of the previous council, did anyone expect a welcoming budget?
Yes, buddy, Wiltshire residents deserve better, they deserve transparency from everyone, not just slogans. Cool, you signed off Black Dog, but the campaign for this has taken decades, decades in which the Munster was but a mini-Munster, and The Conservatives had ample opportunity to make this Tory stronghold better, but failed, and that’s why the democratic system showed them the door. You’re a big boy now, so dry your eyes and accept that sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t and that’s the way it goes!
- Wiltshire Music Awards 2026 Announces New Organisers and Major Event Upgrade
The Wiltshire Music Awards 2026 entered an exciting new era when Stone Circle Music Events announced was as official sponsor and organiser. Backed by their Galway, Ireland office, the company continues to grow as a major force in event production in the South West of England.…
Joining them are the Kingston Group, bringing extensive industry experience within Wiltshire. Together the partnership will build on the success of 2025, and deliver an enhanced awards experience.
This year’s Wiltshire Music Award ceremony will feature upgraded audio-visual production, large screens, professional camera coverage, an experienced compère, and a headline star appearance. A new county-wide marketing campaign will ensure the entire region is engaged.
Committed to rotating locations, The Wiltshire Music Awards 2026 ceremony will be held at White Horse View Events Centre, beneath the iconic Westbury White Horse, hosting up to 400 guests seated at tables.
Nominations open on the 1st May, and close 1st June 2026, with the Awards Ceremony due to take place on Saturday 26th September 2026.
Seeking Volunteers
The Wiltshire Music Awards are seeking volunteers, and invite anyone who cares about local artists, live venues, grassroots music, and giving people a platform to shine, to contact them. Together we wish to deliver the county’s biggest celebration of live music and grassroots talent.
We would truly love to hear from you, whether you have experience in event planning or simply a passion and some time to give, your contribution could help make 2026 our most inclusive and inspiring year yet.
Please get in touch at: hello@wiltshiremusicevents.uk
Perform at the Wiltshire Music Awards Evening
We are now inviting talented artists from across Wiltshire to take the stage at our upcoming Awards Evening. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your music, celebrate the local scene, and perform in front of an engaged live audience.
If you perform anywhere in the county of Wiltshire and would like to be part of this special night, we’d love to hear from you.
To express your interest, please email: patrick@stonecirclemusicevents.uk
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