Southampton’s vibrant live music scene will take centre stage as Solent Area Prog celebrates its tenth anniversary with a major two-day prog rock festival at The 1865 on 1–2 August 2026.
The special anniversary event will showcase an outstanding line-up of established and emerging artists, with a particular focus on the rich musical talent that has emerged from Southampton and across the South Coast.
Over the past decade, Solent Area Prog, founded and organised by Bursledon-based music fan Geoff Tucker, has become a key venue in the region, presenting more than 100 concerts and helping to establish Southampton as an important port of call on the UK prog rock circuit.
Saturday’s programme will feature the debut live performance of Hayley Griffiths Unplugged, with the acclaimed vocalist joined by regular drummer Jimmy Pallagrosi and guitarist Mathieu Spaeter. The day’s line-up also includes folk-prog favourites The Wood Demons, the ever-vibrant That Joe Payne, acclaimed guitarist and composer Colin Masson who was with the Morrigan, electronic prog newcomers Cephid, and theatrical art-rockers EBB.
Sunday’s programme shines an even brighter spotlight on the South Coast’s flourishing prog rock scene. Kicking off the day will be legendary Hampshire keyboardist Martin Orford, renowned for his work with IQ, Jadis, The Lens, and John Wetton.
The local connection continues with performances from Southampton/Salisbury-based progressive rock band Kepler Ten, Dorset prog veterans Galahad, and Southampton guitarist/songwriter Lee Abraham and his band, whose appearance at the festival will be their only live performance of the year. Abraham, will be joined by acclaimed singer-songwriter Peter Jones, performing both a solo set under the Tigermoth Tales banner and as a guest vocalist during much of the Band’s set.
The festival highlights the strength and diversity of Southampton’s music community while celebrating the wider South Coast’s contribution to prog rock. Bringing together local musicians, regional favourites and internationally respected performers, the event reflects Solent Area Prog’s longstanding commitment to championing live music locally.
Geoff Tucker, founder of Solent Area Prog, said:
“After presenting more than 100 gigs under the Solent Area Prog banner, we wanted to celebrate our tenth anniversary in style. The 1865 in Southampton is now one of the favourite venues for a variety of prog bands because of the efficiency of its staff especially their excellent sound and lighting.
“We’re delighted to bring together such an incredible line-up of artists, many with strong links to the city and the South Coast. The festival perfectly reflects the diversity, creativity and quality of the prog rock scene which continues to thrive and which we’re proud to support.”
Tickets are now on sale at £40 per day or £70 for the weekend via The 1865 website:https://www.the1865.live/events/solent-area-prog-festival