Wave Chase / The Lonely Surf / Still Life / Ear Candy

Published February 13, 2026 · Updated February 17, 2026

Old Fire Station, Bournemouth

Wave Chase – Final Farewell Show

A Celebration of Dorset’s Indie Scene

Tonight marks a celebration of some of Dorset’s finest Indie bands — artists who have consistently supported one another and helped nurture a thriving local scene. It also marks the final performance of Dorset favourites Wave Chase, a band whose impact on the area’s music community is immeasurable.

Formed in 2018 by best friends George Kingman (vocals/guitar) and Tim Baldwin (bass/vocals), alongside Mickey Golicher (lead guitar) and Charlie Cane (drums), the band later welcomed Sam Ruthen on synths/guitar. Over the years, they’ve graced stages across the South Coast — Bournemouth, Brighton, Southampton, Winchester — as well as appearing at major festivals, building a loyal and passionate following.

Tonight, they draw a sizeable crowd for their biggest hometown headline show to date.

Ear Candy open the Celebration

Ear Candy 1–2–3–4–5–6–7–8–9

Kicking off proceedings are Ear Candy, fronted by Jamie Eldridge. The band has undergone a few line-up changes, with the rhythm section now featuring former Cherry Lotus duo Aidan O’Hara (bass) and Paul Nicola-Miller (drums) — the latter having previously deputised for Wave Chase and earning a reputation as one of the most sought-after drummers on the circuit. Completing the line-up are Jacob Hopkinson (keys) and Joe Rose (guitar).

Despite the early 6:45pm slot and an initially sparse crowd, the band burst onto the stage with infectious energy — particularly O’Hara, who barely stands still. Their modern, layered sound blends melodic twin guitars with synth textures, tight rhythmic patterns and Jamie’s commanding, room-filling vocals.

“Stay The Night” delivers uplifting hooks, while newer track “Better Days” shows real creative promise. Those present; including Jamie’s understandably proud father, make plenty of noise. Joe Rose’s guitar work stands out throughout, adding flair and depth to an already vibrant set.

Still Life continue their Rise
Next up are Still Life, a band I’ve been fortunate enough to watch evolve over the years — particularly in their earlier guise as Monster Logic. Fronted by Alex Wilmott, alongside Josh Ward (guitar), Nat Harrop (bass) and Charlie Ward (drums), the quartet have honed their craft through relentless gigging and hard work.

They open with “So Far So Good,” and the now-swelling crowd responds immediately.

Still Life 1–2–3–4–5–6–7–8

Recent material feels like their strongest yet. A brand-new track, “Third Degree,” is a standout — inspired, dynamic, and complete with an excellent guitar solo. Alex’s vocals soar with newfound confidence, perfectly suited to the larger stage.

After a heartfelt speech thanking Wave Chase for their support over the years, the band dip into their past with a rare outing of Monster Logic’s “Rumour”. From their 2026 Ep Breath Short Of Life, “At Home” is another highlight — a catchy, assured slice of Indie that demonstrates just how far they’ve come.

The Lonely Surf raise the Stakes

The Lonely Surf 1–2–3–4–5

Penultimate act, The Lonely Surf are another group who’ve grown alongside Wave Chase. This month sees the long-awaited release of their debut album Keep It Together, recorded at the Ranch Studios in Southampton. Featuring Dom Wright (vocals/rhythm guitar), Matt Gibbons (vocals/lead guitar), Daniel Mundy (bass) and George Fullerton (drums), the band display the chemistry of musicians who’ve played together since 2017.

Earlier tracks like “12 Months Out” and “Surf’s Up” leave a strong imprint, while newer material signals an intriguing shift in style. “Here It Goes” and the title track “Keep It Together” lean into darker, more atmospheric territory, showcasing shimmering Shoegaze textures and expansive guitar work. With a growing fanbase behind them, this album release could mark the start of something much bigger.

Wave Chase – A Fitting Farewell

Wave Chase 1–2–3–4–5–6–7–8

Chants of “We love you Wave Chase, we do!” echo around the venue — more football terrace than gig night, as the 300-strong crowd builds a celebratory atmosphere before the band even take to the stage. Then comes the intro: Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” playing over the PA — “And now, the end is near…” — a perfectly chosen moment.

Wave Chase arrive smiling — no sadness, no regret — just joy and pride. Tune after tune follow, each met with mass singalongs. There are no covers, only the band’s own original material delivered with conviction. George Kingman, once the shy frontman; now commands the stage with confidence, surrounded by an equally talented group.

The night closes with a heartfelt speech from George; thanking his bandmates, family and fans. A bottle of champagne appears; adding to the celebration, before an encore of “Fangs” and perhaps their best-known track “Walk The Walk” brings proceedings to a fitting close.

Final Thoughts
A truly memorable and emotional night. Wave Chase bow out in style — united, celebrated and respected. Will they return for a reunion one day? In music, nothing is ever impossible. And this is one comeback I certainly wouldn’t bet against.

Set Lists
Wave Chase
intro: My Way (Frank Sinatra)

Must Be Nice
Feet Don’t Follow
Someone Who
Tired Eyes
Right Side
Second Time
Doin’ Fine
Fed Up
So Much To Do, So Little Time
You Go Me All Wrong
At Least I Can Say
Sit By The Sea

Encore
Fangs
Walk The Walk

The Lonely Surf
12 Months Out
Happiness
Time Will Tell
Surf’s Up
Lines
Losing It
Here It Goes
Keep It Together

Still Life
So Far So Good
Last Time
Third Degree
Rumour
Autumn Nights
TOML
At Home
Something In The Music

Ear Candy
Intro: Alibi
Stay The Night
Obsessed
Better Ways
Memory Lane
Lovesick
Broken & Finish
Lonely

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