boci + Ben McElroy + Strange Loop

Event information

An evening of experimental music in the warmth and magic of By Our Hands We Make Our Way with:

BOCI

boci is a Bristol-based violinist and songwriter who creates astral dream-folk pop. Using violin loops, synths and effects pedals, boci produces cinematic, layered textures which evolve into dynamic and intricate arrangements. Classically trained, boci uses her violin freely and expressively as another voice, taking inspiration from traditional folk playing styles. boci's music connects with her relationship with the natural world and time spent walking in the mountains of Scotland, Wales and the Lake District. Released earlier this year, boci's second album - scenes from uniXia – draws inspiration from ancient myths and existential quests, weaving a tapestry of musical narratives exploring themes of loss, longing, healing and hope.

“Disarmingly fresh and life affirming” - Tom Robinson

https://www.bocimusic.com/

BEN MCELROY

Ben McElroy is an experimental ambient/folk musician originally from The Wirral but now living in Nottingham. He combines acoustic instruments (guitar, viola, clarinet, whistles and vocals) with a laptop to create folk-inspired soundscapes, described as “shivering seabeds of sound” by The Guardian. Ben’s most recent album, Elkwort (“excellent…dissonant and beautiful sonic meditations” The Quietus), saw him collaborate with guitarist Nick Jonah Davis, Debbie Armour (Burd Ellen), multi-disciplinary artist Elinor Rowlands and filmmaker Benjamin Wigley. Performing live, Ben uses layered loops of violin, voice, clarinet and found sounds to craft rich, atmospheric pieces that evolve in real time.

http://benmcelroy.co.uk

STRANGE LOOP

Sophie Barkerwood, known for her work as one-third of acclaimed electronica trio Haiku Salut, launched her new solo project - Strange Loop - in late 2025, with a debut performance as part of oram/100, celebrating Daphne Oram’s centenary.

With Strange Loop, Sophie turns her focus inward, weaving intricate patterns of warmth, probability and chance into music that is curious, inviting and joyous. Luminous microtonal sounds; playful experiments with time.

This - only Strange Loop’s second solo outing - promises a rare chance to witness a new chapter from a distinctive voice in contemporary experimental music.

Tickets are £7 in advance (£10 on the door).

There will be communal food (free).

All ages.

BYOB.

Nobody turned away for lack of funds.

By Our Hands We Make Our Way, Unit 42, Sneinton Market, Freckingham St, Nottingham, NG1 1DQ.