Last Sunday’s showcase of young talent at Brockwell House drew a crowd despite the gloomy weather.
The free music festival hosted by Junior Open Mic (JOM), partnered with Herne Hill Music Festival and Herne Hill Forum, featured a line-up of 32 beginner and “veteran” young performers.
When you think “open mic”, what comes to mind? A solitary amp, maybe two if you’re lucky? Well, this event blew those expectations out of the water – and there was a lot of it. The professional sound system, set up by West Norwood-based Suena Bien, meant the audience enjoyed a proper grown-up festival, complete with the elements.
It was standing room only when we looked in at the newly refurbished stable yard, to catch six-piece death/slam metal band Contortious (pictured above). Their almost deafening set, striking face paint and energetic performance got the crowd going.
The funk/soul/jazz band Soulstice (pictured below), winners of the Trinity Laban Battle of the Bands 2025, performed original music alongside soulful renditions of songs by Amy Winehouse and South London’s very own Raye.
At one point, the venue – which accommodates up to 160 people – became so packed the seating had to be rearranged to make room.
Luckily, the stalls run mostly by young entrepreneurs selling their wares were situated indoors (pictured below), along with the food and drink. We hope the success of their day encourages other community-based ventures to make use of the spanking new facilities.
