AS well as being graced with the finest sunshine this side of Wiltshire, Salisbury’s finest in musical talent came out to play for what was a scorcher of a weekend.

Entry was free for every gig and many bands played long into the night. It was great to see everybody having such a great time. Everywhere was packed, full of happy, and slightly merry, people simply having fun.

Spire FM DJ Dave Woollatt said: “Salisbury Live provides a unique way to present and highlight new talent to a much wider audience, a great experience, not just for the bands but for everybody who goes along.”

The best thing about the weekend was the sheer variety of styles on offer. There was something for everyone. The best gig for me came from Achilles, performing as part of the Endorse It showcase (see separate review).

Salisbury Live came to an end on Sunday at the City Hall, which played host to young aspiring singer/songwriters as well as local heavyweights, Big Num and Drowned by Oceans.

I bumped into Salisbury Live organiser and all round legend, Colin Holton, who commented: “The weekend has been brilliant, complete mayhem, but in a good way,”

A fantastic weekend all round, and only 365 days to the next one.

Owen Evans

* John Palmer was out and about at the weekend and picked out energetic punky folk rockers Smokey Bastard at the Winchester Gate, slide guitarist Dan Sowerby at the Cat Tavern and guitarist and singer Tim Madden at Conrans’ Sunday lunchtime slot. This was the fourth time Tim Madden had played over the weekend with fellow guitarist and singer Joe Burke. Must be a record.

* Comment by Anne Morris: To put the record straight, Salisbury Live is not just about highlighting new talent, but it gives Salisbury’s most popular bands and musicians the chance to bring their music to new audiences in a unique way, by performing in pubs and clubs with free entry.

I have also been told on good authority that the Winchester Gate, Ale House and Boathouse were the places that rocked the loudest.

I can vouch for the Hopback Blues Band who wowed everyone at the New Inn. Singer Chrissie Sherburn’s lovely bluesy voice a perfect foil to the band’s rockier elements. And I ended up at the Huntsman Tavern, where the normally mellow Kings of Lounge were positively rocking out.