IPSWICH THINGS TO DO
BTCP: Special Friend
The Smokehouse, Ipswich
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Information - BTCP: Special Friend
BTCP Presents: Special Friend Live at The Smokehouse
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as Brighten The Corners brings the French-American indie noise-pop duo Special Friend to Ipswich! Join us on Thursday 5th March 2026 at The Smokehouse for a night filled with enchanting melodies and captivating rhythms.
About Special Friend
Special Friend is the inventive duo of Erica Ashleson (drums, vocals) from America and Guillaume Siracusa (guitar, vocals) from France. Since forming in 2018, these talented musicians have crafted a sound that is both minimalistic and epic. Their music seamlessly blends gentle harmonies, subtle keyboard touches, and dynamic noise-pop influences, earning comparisons to bands like Yo La Tengo, Duster, and Electrelane.
Their debut self-titled EP dropped in 2019, marking the start of their musical journey. Their first album, Ennemi commun, released two years later, garnered positive reviews and led to performances at renowned festivals including La Route du Rock, Binic Folk & Blues Festival, and Paris Pop Fest. They’ve also had the pleasure of opening for notable acts such as Juan Wauters, Mystic Braves, Girls in Hawaii, and Secret Shine.
In 2023, Special Friend released their latest album, Wait until the flames come rushing in, showcasing their evolving sound enriched with new keyboard and violin arrangements that strike a perfect balance between bold innovation and melodic harmony.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday 5 March 2026
- Time: 7:30pm – 11:00pm
- Venue: The Smokehouse, Ipswich
- Tickets: £12 + booking fee
- Age Restrictions: 14+ (14-17 year olds must be accompanied by an adult)
- Support Acts: To be confirmed
“Special Friend (American Erica Ashleson and French Guillaume Siracusa) are a duo with a sound that’s somehow minimal and epic. She drums, he plays guitar, their voices harmonise, a bontempi organ slips in almost unnoticed – and suddenly you find yourself lost in the huge landscape of a song.” – Djordje Miladinovic, Thoughts Words Action
Why You Should Come
If you love indie pop with a twist of noise and thoughtful musical layers, this is an event you don’t want to miss! Special Friend’s unique sound transports you into a rich and vibrant world filled with imaginative melodies and emotive harmonies. Whether you’re a local music enthusiast or just looking for a great night out, The Smokehouse is the perfect setting to experience their intimate and dynamic performance.
Grab your tickets now and join us for an evening that’s bound to spark your imagination and brighten your night!
