Independent Venue Week: Wedgewood Rooms

If you go up to anyone in Portsmouth and ask them where to see the best up and coming music acts in the city The Wedgewood Rooms is likely to be the name on their lips. Affectionately known by locals as "The Wedge" the venue sits on Albert Road - the hub of Portsmouth's alternative night life; if you want a good gig, you look no further than Albert Road. Between The Wedge and sister venue The Edge Of The Wedge they've had almost every touring band pass through the doors on their way to the top.

The Wedge recently received a facelift from renowned international
artist ARTISTE-OUVRIER

Personally for me The Wedge means a lot having seen nearly 50 bands here over the years, seeing bands like Slaves, Catfish & The Bottlemen, Kagoule and Manchester Orchestra here have been some of the best musical experiences of my life. More importantly than the big bands, however, The Wedge are huge supporters of local bands hosting two sell out shows for local indie-dance band Kassassin Street and another for local cover band Fleetingwood Mac amongst others. They also host the local colleges Showcase event and Battle Of The Bands for all the local talent.

Battle Of The Bands Winners 2015:
Dutch Crimal Records @ Dials Festival - Wedgewood Rooms

MOK @ Dials Festival - Wedgewood Rooms

Not only that The Wedge and the people that run it are heavily involved in a lot of other musical stuff around the city; taking part and helping run multi-venue festivals such as Dials Festival and Southsea Festival.
In short The Wedge is not only a hugely important part of the Portsmouth and south coast music scene but also a big part of the community.
-Luke

IVW events at the wedge
Wednesday 27th - Noyo Mathis
Thursday 28th - Matthew E.White
Saturday 30th - Icebreaker Festival