Deadpunk Special returns with a breathtaking lineup

The Deadpunk Special is making a triumphant return on 10-11 May, taking over Exchange & Elmers in Old Market, Bristol. After a hiatus since 2017, the organisers are back with renewed energy and a stellar lineup that promises to ignite the UK's DIY music scene once again.

For those unfamiliar with the Deadpunk Special, it's more than just a music event—it's a gathering of like-minded individuals from across the UK DIY music community. Originating in 2012, the event made its debut at Exchange with Muncie Girls leading the charge. Since then, it has evolved into a platform for emerging and established artists to come together, share their craft, and celebrate the vibrant diversity of the UK music scene.

The ethos of the Deadpunk Special remains unchanged: to create a space where musicians and fans alike can connect, share stories, enjoy a drink (non-alcoholic options available), and revel in the sounds of some of the finest acts the UK has to offer.

This year's edition will feature two stages at Exchange and Elmers, promising a packed schedule of 30 acts from various genres. Among the highlights is the debut performance of Faroe Islands' Queer Anti-Fascist band, Joe and the Shitboys, alongside beloved UK favourites like Johnny Foreigner, cheerbleederz, Felicette, Get Wrong, and Toodles and the Hectic Pity. From across the pond, Teenage Sequence will join the lineup as part of their tour with Dream Phone.

For those craving heavier sounds, local powerhouses Knives, Breathe/Rust, and Uncertainty will deliver electrifying performances. Meanwhile, returning favourites such as Hot Mass, Tellison, The Social Club, and Warren Malia's new band, Safe Hands, promise to keep the energy high throughout the event.

The excitement begins the night before with a thrilling warm-up show featuring two of our faves ME REX and Fresh, taking the stage. Plus, don't miss your chance to unleash your inner rock star during Graft-E-Oke—an unforgettable karaoke experience where you can belt out your favourite tunes backed by a full band.

With a lineup that spans indie, hardcore, electronic, and acoustic genres, there's something for every music aficionado at the Deadpunk Special. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the scene, this event is sure to leave you buzzing with excitement.

Full list of artists appearing at this year’s Deadpunk Special:

• Johnny Foreigner

• cheerbleederz

• Ghum

• Tellison

• Dave House

• Joe and the Shitboys

• Tripsun

• Dividers

• Erica Freas

• Murder Club

• Spoilers

• Teenage Sequence

• Toodles and the Hectic Pity

• Fortitude Valley

• Get Wrong

• Immy

• Shoulder

• Breathe/Rust

• Dream Phone

• Knives

• Felicette

• Hot Mass

• The Social Club

• Weekend Faithful

• Birdman Cult

• Slagheap

• Sunliner

• Uncertainty

• Feeble Strength

• Nervous Rex

• Safe Hands

• ME REX (Warmup show 10 May)

• Fresh (Warmup show 10 May)

The organizers are thrilled to bring the Deadpunk Special back to life and invite music enthusiasts from near and far to join them in celebrating the spirit of DIY music culture. Get ready for a weekend filled with unforgettable performances, camaraderie, and the unmistakable energy of live music. See you there!

Save the date for this year’s Deadpunk Special, and watch the video for headliners Johnny Foreigner’s classic “Salt, Peppa and Spinderella”: