People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol favourites: Makala Cheung
Makala Cheung is a singer, songwriter and producer from Knowle West. Her new album launch takes place on Sunday at the Fleece as part of the Mini Moon Festival, featuring live music from classical to pop, lion dances, kung fu demo, activities, DJs and dim sum.
Here are Makala’s top-five Bristol favourites:
is needed now More than ever
Bristol’s music scene and party spirit
“I love all the different quirky venues, all the festivals, and community stations playing local music. I especially want to mention Jelli Records; they run a radio show and many stages at Bristol festivals. I’ve been witness to some amazing lineups that are very eclectic and they always take care of the performers they’ve booked. They’ve introduced me to many of the acts I love to listen to. That’s also true of Bristol Music Show on BCFM, and Bristol Homegrown show on Ujima, to name a few.”
Zion
“I was super happy when Zion transformed from an old church into a community arts centre on my side of the river! It’s on Bishopsworth Road in Bedminster Down and is one of my favourite places to go for something creative, foody and social. They run great themed food markets with live music, a yearly festival called Zionbury, womens pamper nights, family theatre, and much more. A great place to go, especially if you’re in south Bristol and don’t want to have to go to far!”
St Nick’s Market
“I love browsing and rummaging and searching for special and pretty things for others. It’s great for finding a special unique present for the people you love – I especially love Japonica, with great oriental treasures, from fabrics, kimonos and cushions, to framed art, coasters and cards. I also love getting some falafel from Eat a Pitta. It’s the best one I’ve found!
Eating out
“I find eating out even more enjoyable when I couple it with going for a walk in nature or by the water. Bristol being a thriving place for independent businesses and a city with lots of green space and a river, this is an easy thing to do here. Some of my favourite combinations include Banco Lounge (above) in Totterdown, with lovely friendly staff and good food, with a skip around Victoria Park; and Mayflower Chinese restaurant (on Haymarket Walk near the bus station) with a walk around the harbour or to the fountains then off up to Cabot Tower.
Knowle West Media Centre
“And lastly, it sounds corny but I love where I work, my ‘day job’. Knowle West Media Centre is full of fun projects that make a difference to the things I care about; my area Knowle West, my city, and with environmental and wellbeing projects that are creative. I love the team – they are like friends and family to me. I love the building – it’s so bright and airy and it’s eco friendly. I also love many of the partners we work with too – there are some good people and great organisations in Bristol doing exciting and meaningful work. I’m so lucky to know them.”