Grunge, with its raw, distorted guitar tones and nonchalant vocal delivery, and shoegaze, known for its hazy layers of sound that blur the lines between instruments and vocals, are two genres often at odds. Yet, Indigo—a Bristol-based band—seamlessly blends these distinct influences into a captivating fusion of bone-rattling guitar work, melodic hooks, and angst-ridden lyricism.
Returning to The Old England in Montpelier for the second time this week, it’s clear why venues like this are the lifeblood of the city’s music scene. Grassroots spaces such as these nurture burgeoning talent, and Indigo is no exception, showcasing just how integral these stages are to the cultural fabric of Bristol.
Indigo’s performance purrs with the precision of a finely tuned Mustang. Joey on lead guitar, Will on drums, and Sonnet on bass form the driving force, a powerful rhythm section as tightly wound as a high-performance engine. At the forefront, lead vocalist Margo provides the sleek, polished edge, her voice the vital element that binds the band’s explosive energy. The band shifts effortlessly from slow, simmering moments to breakneck crescendos, demonstrating an impressive dynamic range for such a young act.
Having only begun releasing music this year, Indigo already shows a remarkable ability to channel the sound and spirit of ’90s and early 2000s rock, with a modern twist. Their music evokes a woozy, half-conscious haze, that feeling when you’ve had one too many drinks and let yourself slip into a dreamlike state. At one moment, their sound is introspective and atmospheric, like rain pounding against a window in the dead of night; the next, it’s a rush of adrenaline, like the thrill of speeding down an open road.
The nine-song set is meticulously crafted, opening with the textured layers of “Red” and building through their latest single “Nightmare Bitch” to the crowd-favorite “Too Late,” before culminating in the climactic “Nebula.” Each track showcases their ability to balance haunting melodies with visceral energy.
For a band in the early stages of their career, Indigo has an uncanny ability to tap into something deeply instinctual and stirring. There’s a palpable sense of potential here, and it’s clear that they’re poised for something significant. Watching their evolution promises to be an exciting journey.
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK
