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.
Head to Culver Square on Saturday to get some musical treats. I always appreciatively smile when I see Those Colchester Buskers playing to an attentive crowd.
Seeing people react to the talented Simon, Terry, and Dave for the first time is always great to witness. You can see them between 9am and 4pm each Saturday.
On Saturdays, you can also enjoy some brilliant in-store performances at HMV in Culver Square. Lesley Watson of HMV is a true champion of the local music scene, and has been booking some excellent acts.
This week the musician is from further afield. London-based New Zealander Sophey May will be performing at 12.30pm and it's free entry.
Don't miss the opportunity to meet the celebrated and outspoken comic writer, Kathy Lette, in Colchester.
A pioneering voice of contemporary feminism, the million copy bestselling author will be in the city on Monday to discuss her latest book, The Revenge Club, at the wonderful Red Lion Books.
Starts 6.30pm. Tickets cost £5.
At the annual Pint Of Science festival, leading local scientists will be talking about all sorts of topics, from atoms and galaxies to our society and everything in between.
It takes place at Coda, Three Wise Monkeys and Other Monkey Brewing from Monday until Wednesday. Times and ticket prices vary and information can be found on the Pint Of Science website.
One of the world's most prolific contributors to dance music, the producer and remixer Mark Summers from Scorccio Replays Europe is flying back to the UK to DJ at Fluid at Three Wise Monkeys next Friday.
Les Broughton, Baz Briggs, Kerry Nolan, and I will join him on the turntables for a night of nu-disco and house music anthems.
Starts 7.30pm. Advance tickets cost £10 and £15 on the door.
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