Bournemouth Pier’s Key West Champions Local Artists Amid Grassroots Music Venue Crisis
With grassroots music venues across the UK closing or cutting back on live performances due to spiralling costs, Key West Bar & Restaurant on Bournemouth Pier is stepping in to give local talent a platform, and the promotional support to match.
As part of the Arts by the Sea Festival, Key West presents an evening of original live music on Friday 19 September, showcasing some of Bournemouth’s brightest emerging acts in one of the town’s most iconic seaside settings.
Grassroots venues have long been the lifeblood of the UK music scene, giving artists a place to develop, connect with audiences, and carve out their careers. But rising rents, utility costs, insurance premiums, and reduced funding are pushing many to the brink. Key West’s initiative goes beyond simply hosting artists, it’s about helping them be heard, both on and off the stage.
More Than a Stage
Adventure Attractions, operator of Key West, is backing the event with full marketing support, including prime promotion on the giant LED screen at the pier entrance and across their social media, website, and in-venue channels. This means thousands of residents and visitors will see and hear about the artists before the night even begins.
The Line-Up
Velour, Formed in 2021, synth-pop duo Brandon Moss (vocals) and Joe Grist (synthesizers) combine modern electronic structures with 80s-inspired nostalgia. With live credits alongside Black Marble, CLT DRP, and Discovery Zone, plus collaborations with producers Darren Lawson (White Lies, Spiritualized, Bloc Party) and Pete Maher (Depeche Mode, U2, The 1975), Velour deliver atmospheric, heartfelt performances that linger long after the last note.
The Daisy Chains, Bournemouth’s indie-folk storytellers, whose nature-inspired, fairy tale-like melodies bring a touch of magic to every set. Their whimsical harmonies and evocative songwriting promise a captivating close to the night.
“We wanted to do more than just give artists a space,” said James Balcazar, Group Marketing Manager for Adventure Attractions. “We’re using our platform, from our marketing reach to the pier’s huge LED screen, to raise awareness, attract new audiences, and help these acts grow beyond one night’s performance. It’s about investing in the future of live music in Bournemouth.”
Velour – Live Music Bournemouth Arts By The Sea Fringe Festival
About Adventure Attractions
Adventure Attractions is a leading developer, operator, and consultant for visitor attractions, theatres, and live productions. Founded in 1992, the company blends innovation with decades of industry expertise to deliver world-class experiences.
Adventure Attractions operates unique destinations such as Bournemouth Pier, home to RockReef, an indoor adventure attraction, and the world’s first Pier-to-Beach zip line, the PierZip.
With a commitment to safety, sustainability, and operational excellence, Adventure Attractions applies its firsthand experience to consultancy projects globally, optimising returns economically, socially, and environmentally to bring “Discovering Adventure in Every Experience” to life.
For more information, visit www.AdventureAttractions.co.uk