THE weekend started early, and with a lot of energy as Qudos, Conran’s Irish Bar and The Music Box all were packed with music fans.

The Deloreons played a stripped back set at Qudos on Thursday with Jenni Monday taking full lead vocals as Russ’s protégée Naomi Coombes supported Rudimental vocalist Ella Eyre.

Conran’s played host to Music4Fun which was, as usual, packed with talented musicians entertaining the crowd.

The Music Box reopened its doors after undergoing an impressive refurbishment.

NME hot tips Dexters played a set following a jam packed open mic hosted by Ashlee Male. The new lounge surroundings impressed all and improved the atmosphere for those performing.

The Lazy Cow launched live music with Stone Donkey Pilots performing and The Old Ale House, with local favourites Dirty Skankin Love Hornets, The Dead Belles and Restless Wrestler also taking to the stage.

The Winchester Gate impressed with Escape From 98 and co on Friday, and Lump and Alone In Your Crowd on Saturday, closing the weekend proceedings with Peter Leonard and Tim Madden wowing an attentive crowd.

Lovers of heavier music were very much pleased by the acts, including Dead Trails, who performed at the Malmesbury Arms on Saturday. This was one of the first gigs for the Wilton Road venue and more are planned after the early success.

l Next week we will be looking at how Bass Connection has helped local people achieve careers with skills obtained at the facility – Email: thombelk@hotmail.co.uk or Tweet @thombelk with your stories.

THOM BELK