I was born and bred in Sunny Southend on Sea, Essex. Known for having the longest pier in the world and Eastenders holiday spot. Not so much for being a famed gigging spot for bands. That’s not to say I haven’t seen some fab bands there, as I have (Robots in Disguise, The Birthday Massacre, Klaxons to name a few). But typically most people are more likely to think of London as the place to see the best bands.
Well, think again as Indie Cult Club have been shaking things up and helping to put Southend on the map with their alternative club night. Nights that take place in Southend seafront’s iconic gig venue Chinnerys. The nights are a mix of DJ’s plus amazing new and very well known bands. I spoke with John Pearman, one of the organisers and creators of the nights to find out more.
1: How did the Indie Cult Club start? What inspired you to start and what was your aim?
John: It started with a chat around a table, talking about indie music. We then wanted to build a community based on indie music. Starting with a club night and a social media outlet. After a few name changes, Indie Cult Club was formed.
2.Have you achieved that aim, or has the aim evolved?
John: It’s evolving, building a community takes time. But music is a passion and we all love sharing our passion. We’re lucky to have many passionate indies that want the club to grow.
3. Was the response to the events as you expected?
John: The club nights have been brilliant. Our aim was to create a big indie night that starts and ends with DJs. We’ve brought in bands from the classic indie era and we’ve added local support bands. It really is a fantastic night and so cool to see people dancing about until well after the bands have left the stage.
4. What audience were you hoping to appeal to?
John: Indie music appeals to young and old. Those that experienced the birth of it in the 90s and those that caught the bug later.
5. How long has Indie Cult Club been running and how many gigs have you put on so far?
John: We started about a year ago and put our first club night on in October last year. Toploader and The Lucettas, it was so exciting.
6. How have you been approaching/drawing in the bigger bands you have had playing your events?
John: I have been contacting band agents and management. I try to build a relationship with them. We’re in this for the long term so we’re making connections for many years to come. So far we’ve booked The Zutons, Echobelly, The Subways, Toploader, Republica. All the Young, The Utopiates and the mighty Bez.
7. What do you think the best event so far has been?
John: Without doubt it was our December night. We had local band The Underground, All the Young from Stoke and Bez DJing. Bez was absolutely incredible, we all had the time of our lives.
8. Any advice for people wanting to do something similar?
John: To put on a club night takes patience, a lot of work and it’s not cheap. Bands of this calibre cost a lot of money. You have to be passionate about what you are doing. Passion shines through.
9.What gigs have you got coming up,and is there anyone else you’re trying to get to perform.
John: Next up is The Subways April 12th and then Echobelly May 27. We have a long hit list. Our next announcement is coming up in a couple of weeks.
10. Any plans for expanding in any ways- for example maybe more venues?
John: We have massive plans! Watch this space!
Thank you so much to John for taking the time to tell me about this fantastic night in my hometown. I can’t wait to attend!
You can get tickets for Indie Cult Club nights here
To keep up to date with Indie Cult Club Nights you can find them online in the following places: Official website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
Interview by Hayley Foster da Silva
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