There’s a curious footnote in Swindon’s musical history that often escapes the spotlight – the old New Yorker Discotheque, once tucked at the top of Milton Road in a converted courthouse and former jail.
During the early 1960s, this gritty venue was a haven for the Mod crowd, who flocked to see London’s rising soul and R&B stars, and, in a moment of near-mythical significance, Pink Floyd themselves performed there on 25th March 1967 – just months before the release of their debut album The Piper at the Gates of Dawn.
While that fleeting visit remains a little-known gem in Swindon’s cultural memory, 2025 is about to bring Floyd’s influence back to the town in grand fashion.
This August, the iconic Town Gardens Bowl will host Echoes of Floyd, a full-scale tribute concert from On Thin Ice, one of the UK’s most dedicated Pink Floyd tribute bands. For a venue that has seen many musical styles over the years, this marks the first time – as far as anyone can tell – that a Floyd tribute will echo across its open-air stage.
Nigel Dawson, drummer and manager of the band, believes the Bowl is the ideal backdrop. “It’s atmospheric, historic, and outdoors – just like many of the legendary Pink Floyd shows. We’re not simply playing the tracks; we’re recreating the Floyd experience – immersive visuals, lasers, lighting, and faithful recreations of the songs people know and love.”
With tracks spanning every era of the Floyd legacy – from Meddle and Dark Side of the Moon through The Wall, Wish You Were Here, Division Bell and beyond – Echoes of Floyd is set to be a musical journey for both long-standing fans and those discovering the band’s magic for the first time.
On Thin Ice have spent more than a decade honing their craft, and their attention to musical detail has drawn praise wherever they’ve played. Their aim is simple: to honour Pink Floyd’s incredible sonic legacy in the most authentic way possible.
Early ticket sales are strong, and with social media already buzzing, organisers are encouraging music lovers to book early. It’s shaping up to be a standout moment in Swindon’s summer line-up.
Tickets are available now for the performance on 30th August 2025 at www.towngardens-swindon.co.uk – don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-off celebration of musical history.
