As ever there's loads of great stuff passing through Bristol in March, including a whole host of gigs and goings-on that have the cash-strapped in mind. Here are a few shows that won't cost you a penny. Nada. Nothing. So no excuses, right?
R.Seiliog + Kayla Painter, Crofter's Rights, March 10
Expect all kinds of genius as R.Seiliog brings his latest album, In Hz, to town. Operating from Cardiff, the Turnstile-signed producer is best known for fusing the looping, circular riffs of Krautrock's Neu! with frayed-at-the-edges techno. Support comes from local Kayla Painter who's heavily inspired by Bristol's bass scene. For free entry, 'like' the Ascent Facebook page.
Sealings + Lower Slaughter, Roll for the Soul, March 12
Brighton is responsible for birthing many fantastic noise bands and now two of its latest, Sealings and Lower Slaughter, are hitting town. This show promises to be unsettling in all the right ways – manic, messy and loud. Head down to the community-run café Roll for the Soul to enjoy a noisy double bill in unique, bike-related surroundings.
Jolta, The Mothers' Ruin, March 12
There's further alternative rock from Brighton the following night, too. Jolta channel a classic indie-rock sound, with touch of blues, that should appeal to fans of Miles Kane and beyond.
Scribble 'N' Scratch, Big Chill, March 13
Never one to disappoint, this night of illustration and hip hop returns. Taking to the decks is Habitus, who mines a rich seam of funk and jazz through the ages. All of this is played out against a backdrop of three artists battling it out on canvas.
Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman
Allusondrugs, Stag & Hounds, March 16
Allusondrugs are taking their slacker rock to the Stag & Hounds this month. Prepare yourselves for greatness as they've already played alongside the likes of Enter Shikari and Pulled Apart by Horses. If you fancy something a bit rowdy, this is the one. Just don't be unnerved by the taxidermy stag that keeps watch over the bar.
Habitats, Start the Bus, March 20
Eyebrows have been raised over all these tropical-sounding bands emerging from grey city suburbs in recent years, but Habitats are a cut above the rest. The Londoners bring groovy, alternative hooks to their live shows and look certain to breakthrough in the coming months.
Fossa, The Birdcage, March 27
It's always great to catch a new band on the rise and with only a few tracks available online, Fossa are exactly that. It's still chilly at the moment but their singles will warm your cockles. It's melancholic but also bright and cutting at the same time. The Birdcage is the perfect environment to soak up their uplifting sound.
Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman, Rise, March 27
If you're after something different to the usual indie-rock bands and hip-hop DJs, look no further than this Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman freebie. The well-established folk pair, featuring Mercury-nominated Seth Lakeman's brother Sean and Kate Rusby's former musical partner Kathryn Roberts, are hitting Rise for an intimate in-store performance. It's an early one this, easing you gently into your Friday night.