Music hot-spots in Jersey.
There is a huge variety of venues in Jersey, all offering something a little different. In the island’s off-beat capital, you have the pick of the top-locales. Some offer a more gig-style experience, where you can rock out on the dance floor. Others offer ambient music to create a relaxing atmosphere while you sink into a good old chinwag.
Whether you’re relaxing by the waves in St. Ouen’s Bay, or exploring St. Helier, there are plenty of prime places and exciting events where you can absorb the local musical talent. Here’s our guide to finding the best vibes in Jersey.
Check out these local venues.
Jazz and blues 🎺
Slink into some of these silky-smooth venues, and take a step back to a time where dirty trumpets and grooving rhythm were king. Jazz and blues in Jersey is alive and kicking. There are some sensational spots in St. Helier where you can grab a drink, take a seat, and soak up some seriously good music.
Jazz and blues bars not to skip out on.
Crosstown.
With both indoor seating, and a rooftop balcony on Jersey’s main high street, Crosstown’s Gin & Jazz Bar offers an intimate stage for live musicians to serenade you whilst you enjoy a tipple from their wide selection of drinks and cocktails. Crosstown boasts a warm interior with fantastic local artwork by Stef Newington. There’s a great selection of entertainment, with live performances even available on a Sunday, while you tuck into a succulent roast dinner. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s on the agenda.
Roberto's Jazz Bar.
With the bragging rights of having the largest collection of gin on the island, as well as an extensive cocktail list, Roberto’s is the ideal place for a relaxing evening. Every Friday and Saturday night, they will sweep you away with sounds of jazz and Latin jazz. On Wednesdays and Sundays, you can chill to the soulful sound of modern blues. Roberto’s calendar of events can be found on the Savoy Hotel’s website.
The Blue Note Bar.
A beautiful Victorian bar with a great selection of drinks, from craft beers, to rare liquors, the Blue Note Bar offers a bit of something for everyone. The Blue Note is an intimate music venue offering a range of live music from the local scene, with jazz and blues most nights of the week. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s coming up.
Rock and alternative 🤘
Looking for something with a bit more of a kick? Jersey’s rock scene is just as energetic as the waves that roll in every day. Whether you’re hanging with the surfers, or in the town centre moshing the night away, we’ve got you covered.
Bars where headbanging is encouraged.
The Watersplash.
The spiritual home of surfing in Jersey, The Watersplash, is located in the stunning St. Ouen’s Bay facing out into the Atlantic surge. “The Splash” (as it’s lovingly referred to by locals) always has a wide array of events to catch a great tune, so why not rock up? The Splash frequently stages local rock and indie legends on the weekends. Grab some grub, secure your beer and ride the air-waves. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s on.
Chambers.
Chambers is a modern bar that offers a fun, casual atmosphere with a range of events throughout the week including live sports, pub quizzes and more. Once the activities are done, Chamber’s has a rolling roster of local guitar heroes to delight your ears. If rock isn’t your style, Chambers also does a spot of genre hopping and puts on disco and soul nights, pumping DJ sets and the occasional cheeky drag-cabaret act, courtesy of Flair Entertainment. Check out their events calendar to plan your next visit.
Blue Note Bar.
Over the weekend, the Blue Note Bar changes its tone and becomes one of the most intimate venues in the island to enjoy a gig. It doesn’t limit itself to just one genre; putting forward a great programme of rock including, but not limited to, heavy metal, punk rock and indie rock. Check out their Facebook to discover the opportunities to listen to some killer local talent.
Disco and soul 🕺
Transport yourself back to the 80s with captivating soulful beats. Disco and soul in Jersey is a staple with many of the top bars working with local artists to get your funky feet on the dance floor. Take the opportunity to boogie to your favourite songs of the era (as well as a few cheeky originals!).
Boogie-worthy bars.
The Drift.
The nightclub at the Royal Yacht Hotel is one of the go-to locations for a night on the town in St. Helier. Offering a range of entertainment, including a fantastic line-up of disco and soul bands that frequent the stage, the Drift is a great place to cut-loose. The Drift regularly organises 70s and 80s nights (with prizes for the best dressed 😏) so what are you waiting for!? Check out their Facebook page to stay up to date.
Marina Metro Hotel.
The Marina Metro Hotel is right on the promenade in Havre des Pas. With one of the most regular disco and soul programmes in Jersey, this scenic soul venue offers all gr👀vers and movers the opportunity to get a bit funky every Friday and Saturday night. Live bands will serenade you from 20:30 to 22:30, followed by a DJ set through to 01:00. To keep up to date with upcoming performances, check out their Facebook page.
DJ and dance 🎧
Looking for something a bit more electric? Jersey has a range of bars dotted around the island offering those summer, feel-good vibes you’re looking for. Whether it’s a chilled cold one with sounds from a local DJ, shaking a leg on the dance floor or taking a journey through time with some all-time classic tunes, there is a locale for every occasion.
L'Auberge du Nord
A classic, traditional English free-house where you might not expect to find dance-vibes. But looks can be ever-so deceiving, and every Friday L’Auberge puts on a show in collaboration with local DJ Seany, combining what Jersey does best – stunning countryside and some good old summer vibes. The “L’Auberge” has also been known to put on the occasional summer party for those of you who fancy it 😎 To check out what’s coming up, visit the L’Auberge’s website below..
The Halkett Pub & Dining.
Typically full to the brim on the weekends, each Friday and Saturday night the Halkett puts on a DJ set that takes you through some of the greatest hits of our time, as well as a fantastic mix from the past few decades. If you’re looking for somewhere to sink into some classic bops, the Halkett is your bar. If you’re in the area during the week, there’s also a charming open mic-night every other Tuesday.
Honourable mentions.
We’ve already talked about these guys but if you’re happy to stay out a bit later and experience Jersey by night, The Watersplash, Chambers and The Drift are all amazing locations that can really add a bit of pizzazz to your evening. All three bars are local institutions, being the bars of choice for many Jersey folk on the weekends and it’s our recommendation that you discover the good vibes yourself.
Chambers.
Best of the rest.
There are a few other places that definitely deserve a recommendation on this page. They offer a range of relaxed vibes where you can enjoy a tipple and a chat while listening to the music.
Kismet Cabana.
A fantastic little beach café offering a range of cuisine and located in the stunningly picturesque Ouaisné Bay, Kismet Cabana already has a lot of reasons for visiting. But, it gets even better. During the summer months they stage a few music performances at lunch time and around sunset every Friday and Saturday. What better way to enjoy yourself in the sunniest spot in the British Isles than by the seaside with some relaxing songs. To check the schedule for “Beats in the Bay”, check out their Facebook page.
La Bastille.
If you’re looking for something a bit more central, La Bastille is conveniently located just off Jersey’s main high street. They regularly put on an selection of DJs that create the perfect atmosphere for relaxing in their al-fresco, street side seating that’s aptly named, the “Wax-works”. La Bastille also has a delicious selection of frothy beers to enjoy while you listen. To check out La Bastille’s calendar, visit their Facebook page.
The Lamplighter.
The Lamplighter is an iconic traditional Jersey pub. It’s a local-favourite with a friendly relaxed vibe and a great selection of classic lagers, real ales and ciders. There are also a few eye-catching whiskies if that’s the way you swing. The Lamplighter is a convenient two-minute stroll from the bus station, and offers a warm, inviting environment that puts on a good selection of local-artists. Nothing super high energy here, just a great place to listen to some chill-tunes and relax. Check our their Facebook page to see what’s coming up.
Music events in Jersey.
If you find yourself in our little island, it makes sense to take advantage some of the musical events we’ve got going on. There’s a fantastic choice which could see you relaxing by St. Ouen’s Bay and getting wavy at a surf festival, listening to some smooth jazz in one of the island’s many beautiful parks or even going to a full-blown music festival with some fantastic big-name artists. Whatever your inclination, we’ve got a full list of events below, so get planning.
Top music events in Jersey 2024.
Abandon! Ship! Boat Party
Abandon Ship Boat Parties returns for 2024 with a 3 hour boat party set on Jersey's south coast... This is the best small party in the island! If you have sailed before you know what to expect, 3 hours of Ibizan classics and underground house music, while we cruise the magnificent coast.
May 04 2024
Out-There 2024
Returning in 2024 for it’s 6th edition! Out-There is an unmissable two-day music event, hosted in a unique destination, the “Valley of The Unknown”. Dance the weekend away in the natural surroundings of Val de la Mare Reservoir n St. Peter! The event has hosted artists such as Fisher, Basement Jaxx, Camelphat and Chase and Status.
Jul 06 2024 ‐ Jul 07 2024
Ballet at the Opera
Ballet d'Jèrri is proud to announce the final show of the 2023/2024 season; a special appearance at the Domaine des Vaux Opera Festival. Immerse yourself in an evening of pure elegance, artistry, and awe-inspiring performances that showcase the extraordinary talent of Jersey's national ballet company.
Jul 11 2024
Weekender 2024
The Weekender Festival returns on 31 August + 01 September 2024! The Weekender crew are busy working away securing artist bookings and look forward to welcoming everybody for another, much anticipated, action packed weekend of music across all stages at the home of music and entertainment in Jersey.
Aug 31 2024 ‐ Sep 01 2024
Check in with the local sounds of Jersey.
As you’ll have gathered by this point, there’s an impressive array of music venues to choose from – especially when you consider Jersey’s compact size. From countryside to coastline, and in our bustling market town, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect place to kick back and listen to some great tunes. To fill those venues, we’re lucky enough to boast a vibrant community of local, independent artists. From bands producing nostalgic tunes in the tongue of the island’s past, to innovative singer-songwriters creating soulful and vibrant energy in their music. We caught up with a few of the island’s top artists to find out how our slice of paradise has shaped their music.
Meet Von Cassidy.
Forged in 2019, Von Cassidy in an indie-rock outfit with funky influences. Starting out by jamming together in a barn in Jersey’s stunning countryside, the boys (and later girls!) generate bouncy bops with off-beat subject matter. We chatted to lead vocalist, Josh Venton to get the inside scoop on all things Von Cassidy.
How did the band get started and what's your favourite genre?
The band got started in its current format really about three years ago. I had been working on what would become our first record and had just arrived back from Australia looking for a band. Jordan (bassist) and Chris (drummer) were the first members to agree to try some jamming at my uncle’s carpentry warehouse in the country. The rest of the crew followed later!
I would say we have an eclectic taste in music since Chris and I both share a love for hip-hop, funk and disco. Tom and Jordan are both into Indie, Charlie is into rock, and Jen and Han are into all sorts!
How has Jersey’s music scene influenced you?
I once wrote a song on the cliff face at Sorel Point looking out to the sea! It’s really beautiful and serene up there and can act as a great way to get the creativity in motion.
What does being an independent band mean to you?
Hmm… I think it means many different things. Perhaps it means the freedom to create authentically, then to represent yourself and your art without being shackled by alternative interest.
It may also represent struggle and the waiting game!
What's your favourite local venue to perform in?
It’s got to be those late night gigs at the Watersplash! Saying that, we’ve hosted a couple of private gigs at my Uncle Garyth’s workshop. Those are wonderful.
How would you describe the energy at your shows?
Expressive!
Say bouônjour to Badlabecques.
Badlabeques is a the passion project of front man Kit Ashton and means “Chatterboxes.” Similar to the island they call home, the band is a melting pot of cultural influences and effortlessly combines nostalgic notes using Jersey’s own native, ancient language, Jèrriais, with modern folk-pop influences to create something quintessentially Jersey. Something a bit different, but also familiar. We reached out to Kit to find out what makes him sing.
How did you get started as a band and how would you describe your sound?
Back in 2012, L’Office du Jèrriais (the section of Jersey education who teach and promote the language) were looking for a musician to record a few traditional Jèrriais songs in a contemporary style for them to use in schools, and I got the gig. But as I was making the songs, I realised it would make a really fun live band, and soon after sending a demo to Tom Dingle at ArtHouse Jersey, I got an invitation to perform at Folklore Festival in People’s Park. So I had six weeks to get a band together and thankfully found enough musical friends who were keen. Badlabecques fut né! [Badlabecques was born!] We describe ourselves as pop-folk, though we also sometimes throw in rock and Latin flavours.
Has Jersey’s music scene influenced you?
Ah oui, gentiment! [Ah yes, a lot!] I grew up playing in local bands since I was 14 (and actually had a band with Badlabecques keyboard player Martin Coxshall back then). I’d say it’s not just the musical experiences, but the network of musicians as well as the freedom, encouragement, and having the opportunities to get out and play to an appreciative audience that have been so formative for me. I believe there are opportunities to enhance the support for local musicians, but I’m grateful for my journey and the community that is around.
Are there any local landmarks, events or experiences that have inspired your songs?
Oh j’avons un tas! [Oh we’ve got loads!] Our repertoire is a mix of old traditional songs, translated cover versions, and original songs, and amongst all of those types of songs are examples of all of those inspirations – from spooky or spiritual places like Witches Rock or La Hougue Bie, to landscapes and seascapes like Les Mielles (St. Ouen’s Bay) or the changing tides, to historical events like the Battle of Jersey, or the Corn Riots. And as for local experiences… well, we do have a song that’s a kind of ode to having a few too many local ciders (which was a hit with our favourite local cider makers, La Robeline!).
Experience the island like Badlabeques.
What does "being an independent artist" mean to you?
Part of the reason that Jèrriais is such an important element of Jersey culture to maintain and celebrate is that it’s a truly unique aspect of what makes Jersey special. Ch’est eune partie dé not’ identité tchultuthelle [it’s part of our cultural identity]. It’s a real testament to the independent spirit of many islanders, particularly in the rural parishes, that they have kept it going in the face of a great deal of prejudice and oppression. So, as local artists and advocates for our heritage language, I think we do feel the responsibility to continue that collective independent spirit, and promote our language on our own terms – as something that anyone who loves Jersey can enjoy, no matter who you are, where you were born etc. We’re not the kind of band that a major record label would try and get in the UK charts, but that’s not the point – what we do really means something to our island community and that’s what counts.
What is your favourite local venue to perform in?
The Blue Note will always have a special place dans man tchoeu [in my heart] as somewhere I’ve played since my teens; likewise Jersey Arts Centre is always a pleasure to perform at, and although this isn’t strictly a ‘venue’, we always love doing a set in the Royal Square for the Corn Riots festival.
Check out the venues.
How would you describe the energy at your shows?
Ha, well it depends on the gig! We do try to make people dance, but we’ve also played some more formal events. For example, for a bunch of politicians at the Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie, where things were pretty quiet until enough drinks got flowing! But on the other hand, at the launch gig for our last album there was a really amazing energy of community spirit which felt like something more than just 120 people dancing and singing along with us – as awesome as that is – it actually felt like a moment of togetherness which connected us all to Jèrriais speakers of the past, and also pointed towards a possible future where Jèrriais is woven into Jersey life in a way that is both really natural and secure. Avanchons ensembl’ye! [We go forwards together!].
