Bristol Sounds returns for 2023 - indie icons James announced as one of the headline acts

The Bristol Sounds series of outdoor gigs will return to the harbourside next summer and organisers have revealed the first acts on the bill.

Taking place across five nights at the Lloyds Amphitheatre in June, the line-up includes some of the biggest names from the music scene of the past 40 years.

Dubbed one of the most innovative musicians of his generation, Jacob Collier will hit the stage on Thursday June 22. Since his self-made Youtube videos achieved legendary status in the music world, he has collaborated with the likes of John Mayer, Lizzo and Mahalia.

Indie veterans James will take over the stage on Friday, June 23. Appearing as part of their 40th anniversary tour, the iconic Manchester band are best known for hits like Sit Down and Come Home. They follow the huge legacy of headline artists who have graced the stage at Bristol Sounds over the years including Noel Gallagher, Elbow and The Kaiser Chiefs.

Saturday June 24 will see an all-day festival take over the Lloyds Amphitheatre. Called A Beautiful Day Out, it will feature Levellers, The Selecter, Black Grape, Peat & Diesel, Goldie Lookin’ Chain, Gaz Brookfield and Emily Breeze, with a second acoustic stage to be revealed in the new year.

An additional two nights of shows are still to be announced for Bristol Sounds, as well as support artists across all the shows.

Event promoter Conal Dodds of Crosstown Concerts said: “There is nowhere better to experience a great gig than Bristol’s harbourside. The cranes and ships provide the perfect backdrop to this festival and we’re pleased to be bringing some international talent to the city for five nights.

“We have some great support acts lined up to announce in the coming months so watch this space.”

Tickets will go on sale at 9am on Friday (December 9) at www.seetickets.com. To register for presale, sign up to the mailing list here.