It's by no means recent, but Colchester's impressive scene for music, arts, and culture continues to grow.
I've showcased thousands of events through the Keep Colchester Cool project I launched in 2009.
Now, I'll bring the best events to you each week which I recommend checking out.
Here are my five recommendations for music, arts, and culture in Colchester in the week ahead.
Mick Fest III is at Colchester Arts Centre on Saturday. It is an all-day celebration of the 37th work anniversary of Colchester Arts Centre's very own Mick Newman, aka Hippy Mick.
Party - Mick Newton has worked at the Arts Centre for 37 years (Image: N/A)
The line-up features Trilogy, Masal, Aithur, Don Quong, Experimental Sonic Machines, Valhallans, Bada Duum, Leechbook, Beard FX, Cakestupid, Flyingsaucereyes & Kazuo Ohno II, and Nicky Cook all performing on the day.
Doors open at 1pm, gig starts 1.30pm. Tickets are £15.
On Sunday, Ash Mandrake returns to the Victoria Inn, promising a performance that spans folk rock and many other styles.
Known for his music, theatre, the hats and guitars he makes, showmanship, visual imagery, and spellbinding live performances, Ash Mandrake's act incorporates music, loop machines, stories, and comedy.
Starts at 5.30pm. Free entry The Bookshop Band play Red Lion Books on Wednesday.
The band, which takes to the stage with many instruments, writes and performs songs inspired by books.
Their latest album, EMERGE, RETURN, is produced by and features The Who's Pete Townshend.
BBC 6 Music described their music as "Fairytale-land for adults. You'll be smitten." Go check them out.
Starts at 6pm. Tickets are £20.
Here are arts scene stalwart Ben Howard's five Colchester events to check out this week (Image: Submitted)
Shar's Drag Bingo is gaining a cult following in Colchester.
Held on the restaurant floor of Three Wise Monkeys, Shar Cooterie's popular night guarantees songs, silliness, and bingo. Join in on Thursday night.
Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are £5.
On Friday, Hobo Chang are back at Colchester Arts Centre.
Known for their distinctive blend of blues, jazz, reggae, and rock, Hobo Chang brings unparalleled energy to every performance.
From dark, psychedelic vibes to infectious reggae rhythms, they will leave you spellbound. Support comes from Tony Woodley's new project, The Templeheads, featuring ex-band members from The Scoobs.
Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 / £8 (Concessions)
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