OIL is an independent bar and live-music venue on Castle Street in Shrewsbury, with a laid-back, industrial-chic feel across three distinct spaces. The weekly programme runs four nights: Unplugged on the second and last Tuesday of the month (8pm to 11pm), a stripped-back acoustic session hosted by singer-songwriter Fergus Reid with no mics and no amps; the Basement Jam every Thursday (8.30pm to 11.30pm) with the amps in and the volume up, led by rotating professional hosts; the Friday Nite Mix upstairs (8pm to 11pm) with local selectors spanning hip-hop to house; and the Saturday Nite Jam (9.30pm to 11.30pm), a free live-music night where local talent comes together. What began as a small blues jam has grown into a scene that covers every genre - always live, inclusive and free.
OIL Open Mic
Town centre's thursday open mic.
Last updated: 18 July 2026
OIL Open Mic — Quick Facts
Everything you need before you turn up
Where
OILTown centre
Shrewsbury
Town centre, Shrewsbury — check venue website for parking and nearest station.
Contact
Walk-in sign-up only
No advance booking
Host: in-house team
Highlights
What’s on in Shrewsbury this week — or see what’s on across the UK.
About OIL
About This Open Mic
The Night
OIL's Thursday night jam runs 8:30-11:30pm and grew out of a small blues jam into an all-genre session covering every style. Led by a rotating duo of professional hosts, it draws a mix of musicians who share a passion for playing together. Free to attend, with amps provided so players can plug in and join the jam.
What's on stage — equipment and backline at this venue, verified regularly.
The Night at a Glance
How OIL’s Thursday night runs.
Find OIL
Town centre, Shrewsbury
Planning Your Thursday Night
Arrive early to sign up for a slot. Entry is free and the open mic typically runs until 23:30. Bring your own gear.
Part of the Shrewsbury live music scene.
Common Questions
Seven things people ask before turning up at Shrewsbury's OIL open mic.
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