Photo Credit: James Mirfield
Words: Emilie Broad

The Guest List are rising fast in the indie music scene. This Manchester five piece has grown a loyal fan base and it shows with a sold-out show at Bristol’s exchange. A lovely sunny day is the perfect time for a gig. 

The first opener is Cardiff band Shale. Having released their second EP in April 2026 this band is rising in the ranks. Having played Sŵn festival last year, they have been establishing themselves as a band to watch out for. With a classic indie sound I would recommend this band for fans of The Royston Club and Keyside. Their set was really fun to listen to and the addition of a cowbell and harmonica gave it a playful vibe.

Pack of Animals are one of the most exciting bands coming out of Bristol right now. Coming from said city I’ve been switched onto this band for a while, having seen them before I knew the treat I was about to receive.This band is bringing back Britpop with songs like ‘Ballerina’ and my personal favourite ‘roundandround’. Their performance is such a fun watch they have clearly honed their craft and I would recommend this band to anyone in the indie sphere. With a charismatic frontman and members who play their parts perfectly each element of this band contributes to a masterpiece of a performance. Those heading to Neighbourhood weekender should go to the Viola Beach stage to catch their set, you won’t be disappointed I promise.

The time for the main event came when The Guest List graced the stage earning a mighty roar of applause from the crowd. They had us locked in from the first song with a crowd that just couldn’t help but be one with the band. The atmosphere they created felt like it was going to burst out of the venue, clearly they’ve put in the time and work to create it. Their performance was enticing and hard to look away from, everyone was being moved in some way whether physically or in a deeper sense. The song of the set for me was Canada, it’s such a tune you can’t help but engage with it. My favourite moment was post-gig when the band came outside the venue for an acoustic set. This was such a unique and intimate moment that the band created. I felt like I was able to hear the DNA of the songs. This section of the night contained an unreleased song called ‘You Should Care’ coming on 01/05/2026 and I for one can’t wait. The live performance gave us such vulnerability and relatability, the clean harmonies and honest lyrics perfectly distilled the essence of this band. The Guest List have a great year ahead of them and I for one can’t wait to see what they make of it.