
Poppyshow
THE POWER OF CONNECTION: PUTTING THE POP-ROCK-PUNK IN POPPYSHOW

Poppyshow delivers powerful fusion of Rock, Punk, Soul energy.
We’re thrilled to spotlight Poppyshow, a band that delivers a powerful fusion of Rock, Punk, Soul, and make-a-mark tunes. Their music has a raw energy that hits you right in the feels, blending heavy, gut-wrenching rock with sweet beats and heartfelt lyrics.
What stands out most about these guys, though, is the connection they create with their audience. Poppy shows bring an energy that is impossible to ignore, whether on stage or in person.
We were lucky enough to catch up with these talented musicians and visit their rehearsal space in the heart of Exeter. Led by frontman and songwriter Jacob, Stiff Crowd HQ offers a unique, independently-owned practice space full of gear and creative energy. Here’s what they said about their music, journey, and passion for connecting with fans through their sound.
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Photo Credit: Chelsea Branch -
Photo Credit: Chelsea Branch -
Photo Credit: Chelsea Branch -
Photo Credit: Chelsea Branch
Interview: Poppyshow
Where are you from, and where are you currently based?
We’re based in Exeter, where the band was formed. Originally, we all come from different places in the Southwest, but Exeter has become our home base for rehearsals and shows.
What inspired you to become musicians?
It’s different for all of us, but I think I can speak for the whole band when I say you don’t choose it per say; it chooses you, and so becomes you and everything you’re doing. It’s like looking at the world through a different camera lens to everyone else.
Who are your biggest musical influences, and why?
We draw from a wide range of influences! Some of the main ones include Abba. No Doubt, The Beatles, and Stevie Wonder. We love the energy and rawness of punk, but we also take inspiration from other genres like soul and indie, blending them all into a sound that feels honest and real.
How would you describe your music in your own words?
Unique. It’s a real mix of rock, punk, sweet beats, and soul-drenching tunes. We want to create a connection through our sound and lyrics. Our music is a reflection of who we are and what we feel.
How do you typically approach the songwriting and recording process?
We’re playing music or around music in some form every day, so songs naturally appear from out of the dark and it’s your job to catch them or not.
What do you enjoy most about performing live?
The energy! It’s best to see the crowd get lost in the music and share that moment with us. But it’s also a beautiful yet dangerous game of seeing if an audience connects with you and your music; it’s addictive.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being in a band for you?
Finding cash to fuel our van to the next show and then having to find new ways to avoid all the parking and driving fines!
What’s been the biggest highlight of your music career so far?
Definitely playing a packed show in Paris. We were given unlimited cheese and wine and a free speaker from Marshall!
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Quick Fire Just For Fun
Quick Fire Encore!
The absolute essential item for us on tour is…
The van
What’s your favourite place to perform in Exeter?
Do you have any pre-show rituals or ways to get ready?
Vocal warmups in the van or green room before every show, we always get the looks from people.
What’s the weirdest or funniest thing that’s happened onstage?
We play Twister on stage after our headline sets most of the time, and it gets pretty heated.
What’s one Exeter-based business you’d like to shout out?
Our rehearsal space Stiff Crowd HQ, which anyone can book out for themselves and their band cheap affordably and the greatest pub in the world, Little Drop Of Poison, Fore Street, Exeter.
Describe your music style in three words.
Pop-Rock-Punk
Finally, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?
Keep going, tiger!
Poppyshow delivers a powerful fusion of Rock, Punk, and Soul with raw energy. Their connection with audiences is undeniable, bringing an unforgettable vibe both on stage and in person. Stiff Crowd HQ, their rehearsal space, is a hub of creativity and passion.
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– Chelsea Branch
Chelsea Branch, a roots, rocksteady, reggae and everything in between enthusiast. First gig was to see the Ordinary Boys at the Lemon Grove (Exeter) at 16 after taking a liking to their Ska-inspired track 'Rudy's in Love' (and the frontman, Preston). After University, she spent seven years in brilliant Bristol, revelling in its dynamic music scene—a move very much inspired by a first-time visit to St Paul's Carnival. She now lives in Exeter alongside her partner Bev, embracing Devon country life and swapping sound systems for sea swimming and scriptwriting.
July 2025
Upcoming events.


Thu 17 Jul 2025 Buy tickets for The Georgia Thunderbolts
The 1865, Southampton

Thu 17 Jul 2025 Buy tickets for Summer Organ Recital: Jan Liebermann
Summer Organ Recital: Jan Liebermann
Exeter Cathedral, Exeter