May Edition

WE’RE LISTENING! - FREE NORTH EAST MUSIC MAGAZINE | www.nevolume.co.uk | May 2016 | Issue #11
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13-14TH AUGUST 2016
MAJOR COUP FOR NEW NORTH EAST FESTIVAL, AS MASSIVE ACTS HEAD
DOWN TO THE WOODS!
NE VOLUME MAGAZINE’S 1 YEAR
ANNIVERSARY GIG PREVIEW!
DORJE TO PLAY THE INDEPENDENT!
HAPPY MONDAYS TO PLAY
TEESVALLEY ARENA!
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT - TALK LIKE TIGERS!
WHEATUS ON ALBUM NUMBER SEVEN!
EVOLUTION EMERGING 2016!
ALL AT SEA’S EXPLOSIVE EMPIRE GIG!
27D PRODUCTIONS OPENS IN TEESSIDE!
WOLFMOTHER DEVOUR THE 02 ACADEMY!
LISBON TO PLAY KU BAR!
MOUSES NEW SINGLE REVIEW!
PICK UP A COPY FOR FREE!
LET’S TURN UP THE
NORTH EAST VOLUME!
Welcome to NE VOLUME!
Contents
Thank you so much for picking up NE Volume magazine - the
magazine produced by local music fans, for local music fans.
4
Advertise with NE Volume Magazine
5
Gig Preview - NE Volume 1st Year Anniversary Gig
6
Gig Preview - Travis At The 02 Academy
6
Gig Preview - John Bramwell (I Am Kloot) At The Spa Hotel
7
Gig Preview - Slow Cub At The Green Room
8
Gig Preview - Magnum At The 02 Academy
9
Gig Preview - Cape Cub At The Westgarth
9
Gig Preview - Dorje At The Independent
10
Gig Preview - Adam Ant At The Sage
11
Gig Preview - Massa Confusa In Newcastle
11
Gig Preview - Ellis Rayner At Head Of Steam
12 Gig Preview - People Making Noises In Newcastle
12
We Steal Flyers To Release A New Album
13
Cherry Head, Cherry Heart To Release New Singles
14
Artist Spotlight - Talk Like Tigers
16
Evolution Emerging 2016 Announced
17
Reivers Rock And Blues Festival 2016
18
30 Years On,Aqua Velvas Are Back!
20
27D Production Studio Opens In Teesside
21
The Voluntears, Rubbing Shoulders With Giants
22
EnA Music Photography
24
DOWN TO THE WOODS 2016 ANNOUNCED!
26
Happy Mondays Head To Teesside
27
Lisbon To Play Stockton’s KU Bar
28
Rock ‘N’ Rolls Legends ‘James’ Head To The North East
29
Wheatus On Their Seventh Album
31
Glasweigens ‘Baby Strange’ And Their Headline Tour
32
Milk Teeth And Their Headline Tour
34
Amelia Coburn On Her Solo ARC Gig
35
Belieber ‘Beth Macari’ Releases Her Debut Single
36
Gig Review: Nai Harvest At Think Tank?
36
Gig Review:All At Sea At Empire
39
Gig Review: Happy Daggers at TSOne
39
Gig Review:The Hubbards At KU Bar
40
Gig Review: Mouses At The 02 Academy
40
Gig Review:The Wildcats Of Kilkenny At
Middlesbrough Town Hall
42
Gig Review:Wolfmother At The 02 Academy
42
Gig Review:The Kets At The Vane Arms
43
Gig Review: Spear Of Destiny At ARC
44-45 NE Volume Album/EP/Singles Reviews
46-47 NE Volume May Gig Listings
So we’re now nearing our first year anniversary! And in
order to celebrate, we’ve announced a gig/party night in
Teesside. So on June 9th, at Westgarth in Middlesbrough,
we’ll be hosting The Jar Family + Abel Raise the Cain +
Alistair James – with all proceeds going to Cancer Research
UK! Tickets, priced at £6.60 in advance, are available from
seetickets.com (search NE Volume). I hope you can all make
it because without you, our readers, we wouldn’t be here!
Oh, and search NE Volume Magazine Festival on Facebook
too ;).
Anyhow, in this month’s edition we chat to Happy Mondays
as they prepare to play in Teesside, we provide you with
our honest opinion of Wolfmother in Newcastle, we keep
you up-to-date with what’s happening in the region this
month including Cape Cub in Middlesbrough, Slow Club in
Stockton, Travis in Newcastle, John Bramwell in Saltburn,
there’s a major North East festival announcement and so
much more.
Just to remind you, if you’ll be running a gig or bringing any
new material out in June/July then please email our team at
[email protected] and we’ll do all we possibly can to
include a review/news piece in our June edition which will
be released on the 26th of May.
Again, thank you
for reading and
supporting
NE Volume
Magazine! It
means a hell
of a lot.
Lee Allcock
Editor
NE Volume
Magazine
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Visit us at: www.nevolume.co.uk
All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers. The opinions expressed in NE Volume
belong to the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of NE Volume or its staff. NE Volume welcomes ideas and contrbutions but can assume
no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. NE Volume holds no responsiblilty to incorrect content supplied in adverts.
NEWS
WE’RE LISTENING! - FREE
NORTH EAST MUSIC MAGA
USE NE VOLUME TO PROMOTE YOUR
GIGS AND/OR YOUR BUSINESS!
ZINE | www.nevolume
.co.uk | April 2016 |
Issue #10
Follow NE Volume/
This magazine, with a readership of 12,000+, is a
fantastic tool for local gig promoters and businesses
to market themselves to local audiences.
PAIR OF
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NE Volume is a North East magazine delivered
FREE to a range of communities in the North East
covering Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool,
Darlington, Redcar, Newcastle, Sunderland, and
many more. Our next issue will be out on Thursday
26th May so get in touch now to get involved!
Our prices start from £35.00!
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EDITOR: LEE ALLCOCK | SUB-EDITOR: EMILY HOOK
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Published monthly by NE Volume. Printed by Trinity Mirror Printing, Middlesbrough.
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Gig Preview: NE Volume 1st Year Anniversary
at Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough
Throughout the last year, we’ve been dedicated to bringing
our readers the latest news, reviews and interviews from
the best upcoming bands and artists from across the region;
as well as bands/artists from across the UK and the world
that made their way to the North East. Now, as we head
into our first birthday, we want to celebrate it with those
who have helped us since the beginning. On Thursday 9th
June, we’ll be hosting a celebration event at The Westgarth
Social Club in Middlesbrough with all proceeds being
donated to Cancer Research UK. There will be guest
performances from Hartlepool industrial folk band The Jar
Family, Teesside epic, indie, orchestral, experimental, rock
band Abel Raise The Cain and opening the night is one of
Miles Kane’s favourite acts, Middlesbrough rock ‘n’ roll band,
Alistair James.Throughout our time as a magazine, we’ve
been lucky enough to be part of the North East’s thriving
local music scene and we’ve been able to see it grow and
flourish. Now is your chance to celebrate all that is great
about our local scene with us, with a whole host of fantastic
acts that are due to perform on the night. Tickets, priced
at £6.60 in advance (including booking fee), are available
from seetickets.com. There will also be a limited number of
tickets, priced at £8.00, on the door. Just to add, there will
also be an auction where you have the chance to win some
great prizes including North East band memorabilia, free
room hire, guitar lessons and more.
1
S T
YEAR
ANNIVERSARY
C HARIT Y
GIG
THE JAR FAMILY
+ SUPPORT FROM - ABEL RAISE THE CAIN + ALISTAIR JAMES
09/06/2016
Tickets - £6.00 from www.seetickets.com | £8.00 OTD
Written by Emma Bolland
NEWS
Gig Preview: Travis
Gig Preview: Slow Club
Ever-popular Scottish rockers,Travis, will be heading to the
02 Academy, Newcastle on Friday 13th May as part of their
new nationwide tour.The world-renowned band are back
with their 8th studio album in ‘Everything at Once’ which
is scheduled for release on Friday 29th April.The four-piece
still boast the same line up as when they formed some 23
years ago, and they retain their emotive melodies and soaring
choruses.The band burst into the public consciousness in the
post Britpop days of the late 1990’s - in particular with their
chart topping second album ‘The Man Who’.The album, which
received critical-acclaim, spawned several hit singles including
‘Turn’, ‘Writing to Reach You’ and festival favourite ‘Why Does
it Always Rain on Me’.The band are sure to give those classics
an airing, along with their subsequent big hits such as ‘Sing’
and ‘Side’.Travis will of course be concentrating on mainly
playing hits from their new album. However, although the hair
is a little thinner these days - and in singer Fran Healy’s case
the beard a little greyer - they have never lost their innate
gift for a powerfully catchy pop hook; so fans of their past
work are sure to be impressed. New single, the Dougie Payne
penned ‘Magnificent Time’ bares all the hallmarks of the classic
Travis sound - Fran Healy’s immaculate vocals, chiming guitars
and a renewed sense of edge and vigour. Purchase tickets,
priced at £27.50 in advance, from www.seetickets.com.
Sheffield band, Slow Club, are set to play a stripped-back
acoustic set at The Green Room in Stockton on Thursday
5th May.This announcement comes after Tees Music Alliance
promised to promote even more great live music and bring
bands back to Teesside’s mass of venues, including Stockton’s
Georgian Theatre and The Green Room. Slow Club formed
in 2005 when members Charles Watson and Rebecca Taylor
were just teenagers. And, after two years of touring around
the North of England, they caught the eye of Moshi Moshi
Records who released their debut album ‘Yeah So’ in 2009.
Since then, the duo have released two more albums and
signed to Caroline International.The two-piece have built up a
powerful musical partnership over the last 11 years and show
no signs of stopping.They also noted that they’re looking
forward to their latest acoustic tour to promote album
number four which takes them all over the UK on 16 dates.
And they intend on playing a bit of everything, old and new.
In 2012, NME said: “We should underestimate what this pair
pull off next at our peril,” and with a fourth album and a UK
headline tour well on the way, I can’t help but agree. Catch
Slow Club at The Green Room in Stockton on Thursday 5th
May.Tickets, priced at £10.00, are available from the venue and
thegreenroomstockton.co.uk.Tickets on the door are priced
at £12.00.
at The Green Room, Stockton
at the 02 Academy, Newcastle
Written by Colin McCann
Gig Preview: I Am Kloot
at the Spa Hotel, Saltburn
I Am Kloot frontman John Bramwell will be heading to
Saltburn this month to showcase a set of solo songs, both
new and old. I Am Kloot formed in 1999 and haven’t released
anything since their UK top ten album ‘Let It All In’ in 2014.
However, John Bramwell returned to the stage late last
year to once again go solo. In 1999, Bramwell released a
mini-album under the alias of Johnny Dangerously and he
also played a few solo shows in 2013. However, this is the
first time he’s really going it alone. Now dropping the stage
name, John Bramwell has 16-dates lined up so far this year
to showcase his new solo sound. As well as some dates in
the UK (including in Teesside), he will be taking his tour to
Germany,Vienna, Austria and also the Netherlands. But of
course the most important date is Saturday 21st May as he’ll
be playing at the Spa Hotel in Saltburn. It’s great to see such
big names coming to the North East and not just anywhere
but a little historic seaside town. I wonder if he’ll have a go on
the famous cliff lifts? The gig is 18+, so make sure you don’t
buy tickets for anyone under this age. As the Spa Hotel is
only a small venue, I also suggest you buy your tickets quick!
Tickets, priced at £13.85, can be bought from the venue,
through John’s website, and through eventbrite.co.uk.
Written by Katt Mudd
6
Written by Katt Mudd
NEWS
Gig Preview: Magnum
Gig Preview: Cape Cub
+ Tom Joshua + Dead Rivers at Westgarth
Social Club, Middlesbrough
at the 02 Academy, Newcastle
Mighty British melodic hard rock group Magnum, whose new
album ‘Sacred Blood “Divine” Lies’ crashed in to the UK
album chart at number 31 last month - their highest album
chart position since 1992 – will play live at Newcastle’s 02
Academy on Sunday 22nd May. Magnum, who came together
in the Midlands four decades ago in the mid-Seventies,
regularly breached the Top 40 of both the singles and album
charts in the Eighties and early Nineties.The band scored
six Top 10 albums in the Eighties and Nineties and sold
out numerous UK concert hall and arena tours. After a
five-year hiatus from 1996, the group reformed, refreshed
and revitalised, and released ‘Breath Of Life’ in 2002 to huge
acclaim. Magnum have since released six studio albums, each
scoring ever higher chart positions; 2011’s ‘The Visitation’
charted at 55 in the UK national album charts, and then ‘On
The 13th Day’ went in at 43 in 2012. 2014’s ‘Escape From The
Shadow Garden’ breached the Top 40 for the first time in
two decades when it debuted at 37. Like a fine wine, Magnum
just keep on getting better and better with age so don’t miss
the chance to hear live cuts from the new release; as well
as gems of classics from Magnum’s stunning nineteen album
back catalogue.Tickets are on sale now from the usual outlets,
priced at £22.50. www.magnumonline.co.uk.
Middlesbrough’s Westgarth Social Club is slowly becoming
one of the most talked about venues in Teesside with around
half of the shows this month in Middlesbrough being held
at the venue. Friday 26th May will see Teesside-based band,
Cape Cub, take to the stage with special guests Tom Joshua
and Dead Rivers. Cape Cub have solidly made a name for
themselves over the past year and have numerous releases
under their belt; with their debut EP ‘Closer’ hitting over
600,000 plays on Spotify last month. March saw the the band
play the renowned Stockton Calling Festival as well as The
Waiting Room in London and QMU in Glasgow. However, this
month you can catch Cape Cub at a handful of venues in the
North East including The Cluny 2 in Newcastle, Hole in the
Wall in Darlington and of course the Westgarth Social Club in
Middlesbrough. Coming along with Cape Club this month are
Tom Joshua and Dead Rivers.Tom Joshua are a folk/pop band
from Stockton who also recently played Stockton Calling
Festival.Their influences include Jeff Buckley, Fleetwood Mac
and Bon Iver. Dead Rivers are an alternative band from the
North, and they have a track on their Soundcloud that was
played on BBC Introducing through BBC One in March. Dead
Rivers are no strangers to the radio, frequently appearing on
stations such as BBC Tees where they’re known to have done
a few acoustic sets.Tickets, priced at £5.00 in advance, can be
bought at seetickets.com.
Written by Katt Mudd | Photography by Amy Spires
Gig Preview: Dorje
BANK SUNDAY SHINDIG
SUNDAY 1ST MAY
ANTARCTIC MONKEYS
FRIDAY 13TH MAY
LISBON
at Independent, Sunderland
BANK SUNDAY 29TH MAY
On Friday 27th May, UK rockers Dorje are set to perform at
Sunderland’s Independent as part of their upcoming UK tour,
which sees them hit cities around the country, beginning on
May 19th in Reading and finishing up with a performance at
the prestigious Camden Rocks on June 4th; alongside the likes
of The Cribs, Escape the Fate,Young Guns and many more.
Dorje’s first EP, ‘Primordial Audio Chronicle:Volume One’, saw
the band reach new heights with their sound; encapsulating
the thrill and sheer force that comes from one of their live
shows.This was met with high praise from their ever-growing
fanbase. And by the time the Dorje embarked upon their
headline tour through November/December of last year,
it was almost sold out. As well as this, Dorje released their
second EP, ‘Catalyst’, in which they were able to explore new
grounds with their work and come up with something wholly
unique and dynamic. Now, Dorje are back and about to set
out their latest tour, which brings together older and newer
material for a show that is expected to be truly unforgettable.
With the number of shows the band have played since their
inception only a few years ago, they have amassed thousands
of fans nationally. So for new and old fans, this is definitely an
experience you won’t want to miss out on.Tickets for the
event, priced at £11.00 in advance (or £22 for a VIP ticket),
are available from seetickets.com.
OASIS / KINKS / WELLER
TRIPLE TRIBUTE SHOW
SATURDAY 21ST MAY
KINGS OF LYON
SATURDAY 14TH MAY
Jimi Hendrix
BY EUROPE’S TOP TRIBUTE
ARE YOU EXPERIENCED?
FRIDAY 27TH MAY
BY TRIBUTE BLACK DOG
+ THE LAPELLES
BE QUIET. SHOUT LOUD!
PRINCE REGENT ST.STOCKTON-ON-TEES
WWW.KUBAR.CO.UK SEETICKETS.COM
Written by Emma Bolland
8
9
NEWS
Gig Preview: Adam Ant
Gig Preview: Massa Confusa
at Sage, Gateshead
+ Your Casket or Mine + Andrew Cream + Grayce
at The Norhumberland Arms, Newcastle
Throughout May and June, the legendary Adam Ant will be
making a graceful return to the stage with a 14-date UK tour,
performing ‘Kings of the Wild Frontier’ in full.The album,
which made waves in the international music industry upon
its release in 1980, went onto top the UK album charts.
This will be a chance for fans to hear iconic tracks from the
album, including ‘Dog Eat Dog’, ‘Ant Music’, and the title track,
‘Kings of the Wild Frontier’. During his extensive career, Adam
Ant has enjoyed success both as a solo artist and as frontman
for post-punk group Adam and the Ants. Overall, he has ten
UK top ten hits and three number one singles to his name.
Ant returned to his music career in 2010, and in 2013
released his latest album in ‘Adam Ant is the Blueback
Hussar in Marrying the Gunner’s Daughter’.The album
was met with a vast amount of praise from fans and critics
alike, and reached 25 on the UK album charts. As well as
that, Ant has also completed three UK tours, two US tours
and an Australian tour. His most recent tour, which begins
in Leicester on May 24th, will see him cross the length and
breadth of the UK - arriving at the Sage, Gateshead on Wed
1st June and finishing in Liverpool on Saturday 4th June.
Although tickets for Adam Ant’s Sage date are sold out, please
call the box office for information on returns and restricted
view tickets.
Written by Emma Bolland
Massa Confusa Presents is back, bringing you another
night of acoustic delights on Thursday 26th May at The
Northumberland Arms, Newcastle.The project came about
after the band (Massa Confusa) decided they wanted to play
more gigs with bands they liked, in the venues they liked.
They began to book monthly gigs, inviting other bands and
artists to join them. Despite the group only being in the early
days of their promotion careers, they’ve already had a run of
successful gigs all over the area.Venues including Nerd Hutch,
The Empty Shop and The Dog and Parrot (a.k.a: Jumping Jacks),
have welcomed the band; and they’re keen to get as many
venues and musicians on board as possible.So three acts will
be joining Massa Confusa on the 26th. First up is Newcastlebased feminist indie group Grayce who, in keeping with the
theme, will be opting for a more minimalist drum kit and
amps on the night. Following the group is Leeds-based folk/
pop singer-songwriter Andrew Cream, who has been touring
Europe and appearing at festivals all over the world for the past
seven years. Next up is the horrifyingly romantic and gritty,Your
Casket or Mine. Often described as:“the love child of Valentines
and Halloween’”, the singer-songwriter is sure to deliver an
engaging set.And of course Massa Confusa will be making an
appearance, with the promise of a second album on the nearby
horizon.Tickets, priced at £3.00, can be bought from the venue.
Written by Sal Wilcox
Gig Preview: Ellis Rayner
at Head Of Steam, Norton
Sunday compliments the soundscape of an acoustic guitar,
the perfect ending to a restful weekend, and what better
way is there to stall work day on Monday than heading to
Norton’s Head of Steam for an acoustic session. Renowned
Teesside promoters,Tees Music Alliance - who also look
after the Green Room and Georgian Theatre - are offering a
fantastic program of acoustic sets every Sunday from 6:00pm
at the venue. A highlight of the listings features Ellis Rayner, a
local singer-songwriter born in Stockton-on Tees, and will be
bringing his acoustic melody for all to hear on Sunday 22nd
May. Although still a young artist, Ellis has maturity beyond his
years and this shows through his captivating performances
alongside his carefully structured setlist.The newest addition
to the Head of Steam family, joining a whole bunch of fantastic
venues across the North East, Norton Head of Steam opened
on the 15th of December, 2015 and has went quick to work
to secure the best local talent to play its stage. Serving ales,
world beers and dozens of spirits, there’ll be plenty of reasons
to sing and dance along to local lad Ellis Rayner. Joining Ellis
Rayner on Tees Music Alliance’s Sunday Sessions will be fellow
local musicians Steve McCormick (1st of May), Benjamin
Robinson (8th of May), Stu Blackburn (22nd), and completing
the month of May Listings will be Marina Gears on the 29th
May. So, why not enjoy a drink and lovely acoustic music on a
Sunday evening in May? And, it’s free.
Written by Tyler Marriott
11
NEWS
Cherry Head, Cherry Heart To Release A
New 2-Track Single!
Gig Preview: People Making Noises
at The Dog And Parrot, Newcastle
Teesside-based duo, Cherry Head, Cherry Heart, have been
on the scene delivering maddeningly infectious alternativepop to the masses since their formation. Self-proclaimed as
‘Teesside’s most un-pop pop group’, Cherry Head, Cherry
Heart are also set to release a new two-track single on Friday
27th May.This upcoming single, ‘Dark Clouds’, is expected to
include two different versions – the expertly titled ‘Thunder’
and ‘Lightning’.While in both incarnations the song is a
rousing and optimistic experience, the second version places
particular emphasis on highlighting the technical and artistic
skill of the duo. Upon hearing ‘Dark Clouds’, which serves
as a teaser for forthcoming album ‘Tarred & Feathered’, it’s
almost certain that you’ll be eager to hear more from Cherry
Head, Cherry Heart .For the people of Teesside and North
Yorkshire this may be sooner than expected as the pair are
set to take a break from working on their upcoming album
to perform at The Vane Arms,Thorpe Thewles, and The
Fulford Arms,York, in May and June respectively. Cherry Head,
Cherry Heart’s ‘Dark Clouds’ is released on Friday 27th May
on Shoebox Records and will be available for preorder from
Friday 29th April at www.cherryheadcherryheart.bandcamp.
com/. For further information about the band and the release
please like their official Facebook page.
North-East based quartet, People Making Noises, are
dedicated to bringing their own intriguing style of
instrumental post-rock to the region – having recently paid
visits to towns and cities such as Gateshead and Newcastle.
Since playing their first show in the August of 2012, the band
have continued to make waves in the local music scene. In
this quite short space of time, the Jarrow four-piece have
garnered their fair share of attention from the region’s music
media and support from local gig-goers. Following the launch
of their self-titled debut album last December, at Newcastle’s
Head of Steam, there is nothing to suggest that People Making
Noises could not capitalise on their previous achievements
and potentially emulate the success of influential indie-rockers
Foals.The Dog and Parrot is a Newcastle bar that also aims to
bring the best of local and emerging talent to the city. Located
in the city centre, a stones-throw away from Newcastle’s
Central station,The venue is the ideal setting for People
Making Noises to showcase their latest material to the
people of Newcastle. See People Making Noises (alongside
Carl Stacey Project,Ten Eighty Trees and Arkmind) at The Dog
and Parrot, Newcastle on Saturday 21st May.
Written by Caitlin Thompson
Northumberland duo We Steal Flyers To
Release A New Album!
Written by Caitlin Thompson
12
Northumberland acoustic duo,We Steal Flyers, have gained an
impressive online following since their inception.With over
10,000 Facebook ‘likes’ and counting, it’s clear that their status
as an unsigned act is doing nothing to dampen public interest
in their music – both locally and even further afield.
We Steal Flyers already have several albums under their belts
and this fact has helped them regularly secure a slew of shows
across the North East of England and beyond. And there is no
doubt that the pair’s demanding touring schedule contributed
to We Steal Flyers being awarded the accolade for ‘Best Live
Folk Act’ in 2011, thanks to the Exposure Music Awards.
With new album ‘Applecart’ scheduled for release on Friday
6th May,We Steal Flyers’ success is almost sure to last.
Following on from 2013’s ‘Sidecars & Slideshows’, ‘Applecart’
has the potential to propel the duo’s own brand of acoustic
folk to even greater levels of success. Uplifting and thoughtprovoking are phrases that have become associated with
the music of We Steal Flyers - it is assumed that this will
continue with the release of their latest record.In support
of their forthcoming album, the duo will be taking part in
an extensive tour; appearing in venues across the region
including several festivals such as Clennell Hall Folk Festival
in May and Redefest in August.We Steal Flyers’ forthcoming
album, ‘Applecart’, is available to preorder online now from
www.westealflyers.co.uk.
Written by Caitlin Thompson
TALK LIKE TIGERS
Talk Like Tigers are a Newcastlebased band that consists of identical
twin sisters Charlotte and Stephany
Walker on vocals and synths, and Mark
Thompson on drums and samples. The
band are described as gritty electro
new wave pop, producing vocals and
harmonies only possible to be produced
by siblings. The two sister’s talents
have seen them touring all around the
world as backing singers for Duffy. With
all their knowledge gained from their
travels, they embraced as much as they
could from jamming with the Killers
on a grand piano to dancing on bars in
quirky clubs in Tokyo; as well as being
rescued from Madness by Snow Patrol.
After meeting Mark though a mutual
friend and arranging to meet up over
cocktails, the sisters soon discovered
they clicked in the best way possible;
creating a complete, Talk Like Tigers. The
trio’s talent has caught the eyes of many,
leading to airplay from BBC Introducing
on The Mark Forrest Show for their
fierce attitude and energy towards
music. If you’re a fan of CHVRCHES,
Tove Lo, Björk , MØ and The Prodigy,
then this band is for you!
With their EP ‘Animalistic’ out now, they
have just released their second single
from it in ‘Gunning‘ which is available
14
“...then the tables turn and you completely
lose control of yourself within their mystique”
to listen to on SoundCloud.“Our new
single, ‘Gunning’ is about bewitching
someone, but then the tables turn and
you completely lose control of yourself
within their mystique,” the band
explained.
With their previous single ‘Animalistic’
released in February having such raving
reviews, the band are hoping for the
same success from their second. The
lyrics are based on letting go and
letting your inner desires come out.
And the band have just revealed a
more intimate, live version of their
debut single ‘Animalistic [Version 1]’
ahead of the release of their second
single ‘Animalistic [Version 2]’ which
was out on Friday 15th April and can
be found on iTunes. The music video
for the track was filmed in the famous
Victoria Tunnels underneath the streets
of Newcastle, and Talk Like Tigers have
been honoured with the privilege of
being the first band to shoot a music
video within it.
The band have finally finished recording
and are all set for the summer’s festival
season. This includes NE Volume’s very
own first music festival in Darlington
on July 1st till the 3rd where they’ll
be playing Yates’ on the Saturday
evening along with Head Of Light
Entertainment, The Kets, Antlez, Green
Flower, Figmennt, Para Alta, Lost State of
Dance and Abel Raise The Cain. Tickets
cost just £3.30 for a full weekend of live
local music, with all the proceeds going
to Cancer Research UK. The threepiece have also been picked to play
Evolution Emerging along with Cattle
and Cane and many others on Saturday
28th May. They noted: “We’re feeling
very excited to have been chosen to
play Evolution Emerging! It’s always
an amazing night, and we’re looking
forward to seeing other local bands
play too,” said Mark. Stephanie added:
“It will be the first time we play all of
our new material, which is a terrifying
but exciting thought! You can expect to
get up close and personal with us at The
Tanners (at 7:15pm!).”
Tickets are on sale now, priced at £8.00,
from evolutionemerging.com - with more
details regarding the lineup to be found on
the site too.
With high hopes for their music to travel all
across the globe, and a busy summer ahead
of them, this band is definitely one band to
keep on your radar.To keep up-to-date with
any new releases or live events, be sure to
check out their website at talkliketigers.com.
Written by Hannah Dodsworth
FEATURES
EVOLUTION EMERGING 2016 ANNOUNCED!
Saturday 28th May sees Evolution Emerging 2016 heading back
to Newcastle, with the event expected to be bigger and better
than ever before.The North East’s biggest festival for up-andcoming music is set to see over 40 artists play across 10 venues
throughout the Ouseburn Valley.The exciting line up, which
showcases just how incredible the North East music scene is
at the moment, includes the likes of Cattle & Cane, Kingsley
Chapman & The Murder, Drifts, Grey Tapes, Eat, Eva Stone, Joy
Atlas,Avalanche Party, Immy Williams, Baker Island, Ditte Elly,
Trash, She Drew the Gun, and many more sensational from
across the region...
After two consecutive years of selling out, the festival is back
for its eighth year with the strongest line up ever. The 44 acts
chosen includes two national acts selected through Generator’s
continued partnership with independent music publisher
Sentric Music. Headliners are Teesside folk band Cattle &
Cane with their delicate melodies and soaring choruses.After
releasing their single ‘Home’ earlier last year, and captivating
audiences across the UK, they make their way to Newcastle
with an incredible pedigree. Coming from Thornaby, four of
the five-piece are also siblings which makes it a real family
affair indeed.Another incredible act to look out for is Kingsley
Chapman and the Murder. Front man Kingsley originally fronted
renowned band,The Chapman Family.After a number of
releases, headline slots, festival appearances and more, the band
finally called it a day in 2013. His new band,The Murder, made
up of eight members, get a lot of their influences from the
mythology of iconic rock.They play a dizzying mix of thundering
Viking warrior drums, sparkling avant-garde pianos, ominous
romantic strings and barbed wire guitars all underpinned by a
savage croon.A Festival,A Parade, are also set to take the stage.
The alternative rock band from Newcastle consists of four
members who specialise in creating alternative rock music.
Their sound boasts the juxtaposition of intricate, melodic guitar
lines and bleak, brutally honest lyrics; influenced predominantly
16
by the writing styles of Frightened Rabbit, Manchester
Orchestra and Into It.The opportunity to enjoy 44 exciting,
emerging artists and attend the event afterparty for only £8.00
is testament to the event’s ambition to offer real value for
money whilst continuing to develop in future years.The team
is also delighted to welcome a host of new sponsors and event
partners including Sentric Music Publishing, Gigs North East
and Igloo.
Generator’s Artist Development Manager, Bob Allan noted:
“Following another sold out year we’re really excited to be
heading into our eighth Evolution Emerging festival.The event
continues to showcase the best new artists from the North
East alongside some of our favourites from around the UK.
The growth of this event is testament to the talent that thrives
in our region and the appetite of festival goers to discover the
best we have to offer.We’re really excited to once again fill the
Ouseburn Valley with more than 40 new artists and continue to
shine a national spotlight on the abundance of emerging talent
that graces our stage each year. See you in the valley!”
Venues include:The Cluny, Cluny 2,The Tyne Bar, Little Buildings,
The Cumberland Arms, Cobalt,The Tanners, Blank Studios, Blast
Studios and Ernest.
Tickets, priced at £8.00 in advance, are on sale now and
can be purchased via www.evolutionemerging.com/tickets.
All tickets purchased not only allow gig entry into all of the
aforementioned venues, but they allow you access into the
afterparty too. It’s also advised to buy your tickets early, as
Generator once again expect the event to be a sell out.
Doors open at 4:00pm, with the after show at 11:00pm.
Wristband exchange is open from 1:00pm. For more
information and the line up in full visit evolutionemerging.com.
Written by Hannah Dodsworth | Photography by Sally T
Photography
REIVERS ROCK AND BLUES FESTIVAL 2016!
Clennell Hall Country House hotel is no stranger to hosting
festival events such as the annual International Folk Festival and
Beer Festivals; together with several annual Motorcycle Club
events throughout the year. It was no surprise, and indeed a
natural progression, when it was decided that the venue would
become host to the inaugural Reivers Rock and Blues Festival
in 2015.Based near Alwinton in Northumberland on the skirts
of the picturesque National Park, Clennell Hall is an ideal
location to host festival events. In the words of Jason Elliott,
Blues and Soul Show and event organiser:“Leave the outside
world behind and enter a total immersion experience of finest
Rock and Blues.”
Having always enjoyed rock and blues at previous events
hosted at Clennell Hall, John “Rocky” Ramshaw put the
wheels in motion and the Reivers Rock and Blues Festival
was born. Rocky then put together an experienced team of
festival organisers and recruited the services of North East
promoter Graham Laddie to book the artists, who provided
a program to suit all taste in blues and rock.A vintage Status
Quo tribute band, Ma Kelly’s Boys, were added to the bill to
warm up the audience and open the main stage.With artists
such as Ben Poole, Dave Arcari, Lucy Zirins, Paul Lamb and The
Detroit Breakdown (USA) and the North East’s own Mitch
Laddie Band, the stage was set for a great weekend of blues
rock and the lineup proved to be very popular; with people
traveling from as far as the Ilse of Wight and beyond. Because
of the success of Reivers Rock and Blues Festival in 2015, the
promoters had a tough act to follow.They believe, however,
the 2016 lineup will equal if not surpass the previous festival
line up with headliners, John Verity, Slack Alice, Bex Marshall
and Rhythm Zoo and the Bishop FM Stage featuring Struggle
Buggy, Bessie’s Blues, King Snake and Yuma to name but a few.
New for 2016, we (NE Volume) will be sponsoring a band on
the mainstage, and we’re very pleased to announce that that
will be none other than Stockton’s ,The Purnells. Just to add,
the promoters also noted:“We are very grateful to Martin
Stoneham of Stoneham Amplification who will once again be
supplying the backline.” Facilities at the festival will include
camping, caravan or motor home pitches, but unfortunately
hook-ups are not available. Limited VIP rooms, at time of
publication,are still available for hotel accommodation.The
festival will also have a fine selection of local real ales with hot
food available all day including a hog roast and curry kitchen.
This month, now named ‘Music Mayhem’, Clennell Hall will be
hosting two major music events - Clennell Hall International
Folk Festival: 20th to 22nd of May, and Reivers Rock and
Blues Festival: 27th to 29th of May. Promoters also intend
to announce a Country and Western Festival and also an
Americana festival later in 2016. Reivers Rock and Blues
Festival also mentioned that they’re proud to be working with
South Shields Rock and Blues Club and the Tyne Bar Newcastle
- the latter will be hosting Reivers Rock and Blues “Flash Back
Monday” featuring a double header with George Shovlin and
The Radars plus Mitch Laddie Band on the 30th May. Both
bands played the mainstage at RRBF 2015.
Tickets are available online from wegottickets. Full weekend
ticket are priced at £50.00pp to include Friday with Bessie and
The Zinc Buckets or £5.00 for Friday-only with free camping.
Day tickets are available for Saturday or Sunday at £28.00pp,
and under 5’s go free. Camping, motor home and caravan
pitches are £10.00 per night for Saturday and Sunday. Please call
Clennell Hall on 01669 650377 to book camping pitches and
hotel accommodation.
Reivers Rock and Blues Festival
Alwinton
Northumberland
NE65 7BG
For full line up details please see www.reiversrockandblues.
co.uk or visit the Festivals’ official Facebook page.
17
FEATURES
30 YEARS LATER, AQUA VELVAS ARE BACK
The closure of Redcar’s steelworks saw the end to a way of
life for generations. Passionate and powerful rockers,Aqua
Velvas, are standing their ground - making it known that this
is not something to be quite about. Fighting back with their
single ‘Ghost Town’, to be released this month, which starts
with the line:“Hey Cameron, what’s it like to be in charge of
the butchers knife? Another Pound Shop on the block where
M & S ran out of stock. Hey Cameron, how does it feel to ruin
a town built on Steel Tata to your friends SSI who’s promises
were all lies?”.With previous singles such as ‘Terrorist Threat’
and ‘David Cameron’, this controversial band are not afraid of
letting the right wing know how their decisions are affecting
not only the North East, but the whole of the UK.“We have
high hopes for this little ditty, recorded at Broadwater Studios
in Felling by Paul Worthington,” said lead vocalist, Russ Teasdale.
“We filmed the video for the single round the old steel works
under the direction of Brian Allanson”.
The current lineup of the band consists of Russ alongside
Alison Hildreth on vocals and saxophone, Clive Andy Loman
on drums, Neil Baldam on guitar and vocals, and Shaun
Patterson on bass. Originally coming together back in 1982,
they were last seen playing live together at Norma Jeans in
Middlesbrough in 1985.With 15 tracks recorded, the band are
currently rehearsing and will be joined by Andy Power of the
Andrew Power Band, who was formally of Moulin Rouge.
Sadly they have just withdrawn from supporting Brit Pop
legends The Happy Mondays at the Tees Valley Arena on the
7th May due to unavailability. Steve Graham, who originally set
up this project alongside Russ, is unfortunately having to step
down due to living in Bristol which makes rehearsing very
difficult.“We thank him for his massive influence on the bands
recordings up to the start of this year,” said Russ. His song ‘Easy’
is in the current set.
Also joining as guest artists on vocals are George Williamson
and Geoff Mull. Back in 1982, Partners in Crime disbanded and
Russ Teasdale, Richard Weatherill and Clive Simpson invited
18
Mike Peel to join their existing line up.The original band was
playing at the time of the Punk era with a political influence
to their songs, but played with a pop backdrop; adding an
upbeat tempo to their music. In 1982, they recorded their
first single ‘Heart of the City’ at KG Studios in Briddlington
on System Records, and the track was played on John Peel’s
show.The band gigged all over the North, supporting Orange
Juice,Viscious Pink Phenomena and many others and on
many occasions played with Darlington’s Bendy Sticks and
Sunderland band Patrick.Tragically Clive Simpson died back
in 2001 after choking in his sleep. In 2003, Richard, Mike and
Russ got together with new drummer Clive Lomas to record
the ‘Terrorist Threat’ EP.This was after Dutch producer,Van
Bokhurst, heard an old demo from 1983 of the title track.Van
Bokhurst kindly paid for the session and the title track ended
up on a compilation album on Nuhove Records.
In 2013, Russ got in contact with Richard and Clive and
guitarist Mike to work on a new project, an Aqua Velvas album,
to be recorded at Broadwater Studios in Gateshead with the
working title ‘Old Men With Diseased Faces’ (which is the
opening line of the first single). Due to illness, Mike Peel has had
to step down so his place has been taken by Steve Graham,
who was also performing on stage with the band back in the
eighties.The next big release for the band was their EP ‘The
Killing Game’ featuring three Teasdale/Noble compositions,
recorded at Broadwater Studios in Gateshead under the
production of Paul Worthington.They finished 2014 with the
release of ‘Easy/Heart of the City’ along with four music videos
that year. With a long exciting career to stand on, and the band
back in the studio recording, keep tuned for more information
on future releases and gigs to be announced.
Further details can be found by following the band on
Facebook or via their official website at aquavelas.co.uk.
Written by Hannah Dodsworth
21st May
Doors: 19:30
£5 Entry (BYOB)
Nemix Studios 59 Blandford Square, Newcastle NE14HZ
FEATURES
27D PRODUCTIONS STUDIO IN TEESSIDE OPENS TO PUBLIC
A new studio has opened on Teesside for:“anyone with a
project they need recording.” 27D Productions is the work of
Steve Hoggart.After several years in the music industry, he told
us more about why now is the time to open the studio.
Steve’s first taste of studio work was at The Mill Studios before
going on to freelance work, live sound and tour management.
However, his links with the music industry have been present
since his college days.“I started off as a kind of fix-it roadie type
guy. I studied radio electronics at college and through that I
seemed to get everyone with an amp broken pedal or mixing
console knocking at my door,” explains Steve.
Before this, Steve undertook recording duties in his first
serious band.The band was Ardkore, and their first EP was
recorded at Impulse Studios in Wallsend.“The EP was recorded
by Kev Riddley. However, before we started I had to carry out
quite a few repairs to equipment.We recorded our next EP
at Studio 64 - a community studio in Middlesbrough.We then
ended up with a deal with Metalworks and the label were
happy for me to produce Ardkore,” noted Steve.
During his time freelancing, Steve “never really felt the need”
to open his own place as he was enjoying the different types
of work. In 1998, though, he returned from a European tour
and was feeling a bit more worn out than he had previously. He
explained:“I went to see the doctor and was diagnosed with
a chronic illness. I ended up having to take a chunk of time off
to recuperate and ended up doing a course at Middlesbrough
College which resulted in a job in teaching. I started recording
some of my students and mates’ bands, and I then began to
release some of the bands material through my label.”
It was at this point that Steve realised the bigger picture and
the desire to open a studio of his own:“I had always planned on
doing a better job of building a proper, purpose-built studio so I
decided to get the ball rolling and had some plans drawn up for
the new space. I knew what I needed from all the recordings
from my past experiences and what would work locally.
The building work started last May, and I moved in January this
year. I’m still tweaking the rooms and recording as much as I
can to familiarise myself with a more efficient workflow and
try to build a great pallet of acoustic environment to record in.”
There is no particular client that Steve is looking for. He said:
“Anyone with a project they need recording. Be it a young
bands first ever recording to commercial production - get
in touch. I love a challenge, and there is not much I have not
recorded; from orchestras to traditional, unusual instruments.”
Even those with a bigger and bolder plan are welcome – he
laughs:“It would be tough to fit in an orchestra, but I know a
place I can.” Although the speciality that Steve offers with the
studio is:“guitar-driven music, from thrashy metal and punk end
of the spectrum to singer-songwriter sessions.” Saying that, he
noted he’s also currently working with a couple of electronic
bands on an album project.
He went on to add:“I have a big collection of high-end valve
guitar amplifiers, loads of decent bass gear - what with being
a bass player - and an excellent selection of microphones and
microphone preamps and some quirky outboard. I do quite a
bit of mastering and remastering and have analogue and digital
mastering equipment; covering most formats for people with
an old analogue tape or DAT lying about.”
Not only is the studio available, but help will be at hand if
the client needs any pointers or creative input with their
projects.This combined with:“encouraging artists to sort the
manufacturing of CD’s themselves” gives a great balance of
responsibility and creative power.
Prices start at £25 an hour, with the minimum a two-hour
session. Specific deals and details can be decided on depending
on the client. For further information, please head over to
facebook.com/27DProductions or stevehoggart.com.
THE VOLUNTEARS, RUBBING SHOULDERS WITH GIANTS
The Voluntears, as noted by frontman, Seamus Edge, are:
“Rubbing shoulders with giants.And are DIY at the maximum.”
The band, which consists of five guys from the North East,
all have the same passion and desire.They got together back
in 2014 and, a couple of gigs later, they opened one of the
biggest festivals in the region - Hardwick Live 2014 - where
they shared the stage with none other than 80’s legend Adam
Ant and the headline act,The Jacksons.Their music was fresh,
upbeat and I defy anyone to listen to ‘Feels like home’ without
tapping their toes and nodding their heads.
From the very beginning, I liked these guys.They’re humble,
down to earth, and hardworking. Seamus Edge has a powerful
voice and the melodies and riffs from rhythm, lead, bass guitar
and drums complement each other beautifully.Was the future
looking bright for The Voluntears from the off? Yes it was.They
came out and rocked whilst supporting The Sherlocks; went
down an absolute storm supporting John McCullogh; threw a
spanner in the works supporting The Ordinary Boys; and they
even shared the stage with the world famous Bootleg Beatles
at Richmond Live. Busy schedules and everyday normalities
didn’t stop these guys from writing their own material or
rehearsing.
A new song was penned “And I know” which was accompanied
by a music video that not only got entered onto MUZU TV,
but is currently enjoying over 71,000 views on youtube. It was
only a matter of time before record labels came knocking, and
Flicknife Records signed The Voluntears. Great things were
about to happen. Hardwick Live 2015 was kicked off by, yes
you guessed it,The Voluntears.They shared the stage this year
with an incredible line up including Razorlight, Embrace, 10cc
and James.What could possibly be next for the band? Could
it get any better? An album, in ‘Beggars Belief’ was launched at
the O2 Academy, Newcastle. Not enough did they manage to
pack the place, they even managed to outsell the one, the only,
Grand Master Flash.
And there’s more.The album received 8/10 in Vive Le Rock
Magazine, and they then went on to gain not one, not two,
but three main support slots with none other than Space The
Band.2016 is also proving to be a busy one for The Voluntears.
They have a North East Tour planned during June and July
(more dates to be added), a UK Tour during September, and a
film sync on the way.These lads deserve credit where credit
is due. Because in this day and age it’s not just music that runs
a great band - it takes a great deal of hard work for you to be
your own boss and run your own business, record label, deal
with your own management, PR and marketing, be a promoter,
and much much more. One thing I do know with these guys is
that it takes passion, desire, dedication and a pure love of music
do to what The Voluntears have done and are still doing.They’re
just five normal guys from the North East who appreciate
the support from their fans and fellow musicians, and they’re
also very humbled at being asked to support a band or get a
festival going.The band also write their own material, with each
member of The Voluntears bringing their own ingredients to
the table; which somehow manages to gel together to create
songs you want to listen to again,again, and again.
The Voluntears have certainly done their fair share of grafting,
and big things come to those who go out and work extremely
hard.You can catch the Voluntears throughout the North East
in June and July:
4-5th June
19th June 25th June 3rd July 16th July 31th July Sunderland Stadium of Light Summer Food Festival
Surfcafe,Tynemouth
Musiclounge, Stockton
NE Volume Magazine Festival at the Forum,
Darlington
Northumberland Live, Bedlington
Seaton Sports Domes
Written by Vikki Tyrer
Written by Callum Thornhill
20
21
FEATURES
THE MUSIC SCENE ISN’T JUST ABOUT MUSIC!
ENA MUSIC PHOTOGRAPHY
The North East music scene isn’t just about the music, it’s about
the venues, the fans, the photographers and reviewers that help
to create the scene itself. I caught up with one budding music
photographer, in Ian Allcock, to talk about his venture into the
artistic side of life.
Ian has a fruitful working life - he’s a self-employed, GovernmentRegistered, Counter Fraud Consultant and Investigator. In his
spare time he loves going to gigs and open mic nights around
Teesside and sometimes further afield. It seems like he has his
life where he wants it, so the pressing question was why the
change to music photography? He explained:“I’ve always been
into music, especially the local scene on Teesside, starting in my
teens back in the 1980’s.A couple of years ago the accountancy
company I use sent me a Nikon DSLR as a loyalty gift. My first
thought was Ebay, then I started having a mess around with it and
found I liked using it and wanted to learn more. I started taking
it to open mic nights and just taking shots of the acts that were
playing without thinking too much about what I was shooting.
Then I started trying to think of it from the act or bands’ point
of view and started trying to capture more of the emotion of
the song and performance - taking shots the band or singer
would like or that showed a bit more than just the lead singer
on stage.” Ian mentioned the word band a lot, which made me
wonder what his personal favourite genre was, so when asked
the answer didn’t surprise me:“Well I guess I am an ageing ‘indie
kid’. I cut my musical teeth on bands like U2 and The Smiths,
and local bands like Flaming Mussolinis and President, then got
swept along by The Stone Roses, Oasis, Inspiral Carpets and the
whole 90’s Britpop thing.These days I like anything. as long as
it is done well and has a bit of passion. I love acoustic stuff too,
which is why most Thursdays I can be found at The Storytellers
in Stockton for the Open Mic Night; as well as others across
Teesside. I love off the wall stuff too, bands like Pussy Willow
22
Furry Venus,The Ceiling Demons and A Day in Helsinki have
blown me away recently at local gigs. Bands like Cellar Door and
BoycotThe Radio are also doing great things at the minute.” It
makes sense then that when I asked who his favourite bands to
photograph are, he replied with:“I love shooting artists and bands
who put a lot of emotion into their music or who are very visual
on stage. I really enjoyed shooting Tom Hingley of the Inspiral
Carpets at ARC for Stockton Calling, and Mike McGrother and
The Wildcats of Kilkenny in Middlesbrough, as there was a great
connection between them and their audiences - a photographers
dream really.” Of course these were only a few of the bands Ian
mentioned that he loved photographing, and I wanted to find out
what band would be his dream to photograph. He added:“I love
live gig shoots as I think the artist or bands’ personality comes
across so much better than in the studio. Obviously if Radiohead
want me to shoot the next tour then I will see if I am available.”
Ian’s gig shoots tend to start at around £50.00 (plus expenses
if the gig is out of the Teesside area).This includes a full shoot
before, during and after the gig; plus delivery of professionally
edited digital images. His service is totally bespoke and
depends entirely on his clients’ vision and requirements - so
he can arrange location shoots for press or publicity or studio
shoots too; if they’re needed. Ian also added:“I have access to
professional printing and framing services as well as professional
references from previous clients if required.And a small deposit
secures any booking.” Ian is currently finishing off his website
which will be live on Sunday 1st May.The website can be found at:
www.enaphotography.co.uk. In the mean time, please follow Ian’s
photography page on Facebook at /EnAPhotography1, email him
at [email protected], or call him on 07930 801034.
Written by Nathan Douthwaite | Photography by EnA
Photography
MAIN FEATURE
A new North East festival is bursting onto the summer
circuit after securing some of the biggest bands in British
music. New festival, Down To The Woods, in County
Durham is boasting some serious ammunition as it
announces some outstanding acts at an insanely cheap
£99.00 adult weekend ticket.
Multi-platinum selling Chase and Status have incredibly
been added to the bill as one of the headliners alongside
Scottish legends Primal Scream, with platinum-selling
Catfish and the Bottlemen, undoubtedly one of the most
exciting guitar bands to hit the music industry in a decade,
also added to the bill.
MAJOR COUP FOR NEW NORTH EAST FESTIVAL, AS MASSIVE ACTS HEAD
DOWN TO THE WOODS!
PRIMAL SCREAM | CHASE AND STATUS | CATFISH AND THE BOTTLEMEN
ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN | THE SELECTER | THE SUNSHINE UNDERGROUND | KWABS
VANT | THE AGE OF L.U.N.A | HIDDEN CHARMS | HOLY ESQUE + MANY MORE!
13TH - 14TH AUGUST
MORE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED, SEE FULL LINE UP ON
WWW.DOWNTOTHEWOODSFESTIVAL.CO.UK
Chase and Status, set to headline 50,000 capacity festivals
elsewhere, will be headlining the 10,000 capacity Down
To The Woods. The duo, known for their incendiary live
performances, bang out their multiple number ones with
tracks like ‘Blind Faith’. The exponents of drum and bass
have also produced tracks for the likes of mammoth acts
such as Rhianna and Rita Ora and Example. And with fans
such as Pharrell Williams and Jay Z, the Down To The
Woods crowd are assured of a huge performance.
“Chase & Status haven’t
performed live in this
set up for a number of
years,”
main stage, whilst newer acts, such as The Jacques, will
further contribute to one of the coolest festival line-ups
around.The captivatingly named Foxes Folly Stage will
deliver some of the very best new acts in the country
championed by headliners The Sunshine Underground and
Peter Hook & The Light - led by the former Joy Division
and New Order man.
Other acts set to appear on this stage during the
weekend include hotly-tipped artists like Kloe, Holy
Esque, Pixel Fix, Kagoule, Fronteers, White, Inheaven,
Neon Waltz, No Hot Ashes, Tempesst, The Americas, The
Barmines, Weekend Sun, Broken Witt Rebels, The White
Negroes, exciting solo artist Joe Crookall and future
County Durham hero in waiting, Joe Treacy, with even
more acts to be announced soon.
The line-up for a third stage, Badgers Den, will be
announced in the coming weeks, with a focus on live
comedy and DJs.
Weekend tickets for the Down To The Woods, priced at
£99.00 per adult, £28.00 for young people aged 13 to 16,
and £15.00 for children aged three to 12, are available via
downtothewoodsfestival.co.uk.
Just to add, a number of single day tickets, priced at
£55.00, £15.00 and £8.00 respectively are also on sale
separately for Saturday and Sunday, with camping pitches
starting at £30.00 per tent. For more information visit
downtothewoodsfestival.co.uk or search Down To The
Woods on Facebook or Twitter.
said event organiser Jonathan Woodliffe, so it’s a massive
coup for us to bag them for Down To The Woods and let
our festival-goers enjoy a superb festival at an incredibly
affordable price”.
Scottish heroes, Primal Scream, will bring their huge back
catalogue of anthems like ‘Rocks’, ‘Movin’ On Up’ and
‘Loaded’ as well as tunes from their latest album. Catfish
and the Bottlemen have taken the UK by storm and are
one of the biggest live acts around - with huge tracks like
‘Kathleen’, ‘Cocoon’ and ‘Soundcheck’.
Festival artist booker, tinyCOW’s Lee O’Hanlon, enthused:
“We’re absolutely delighted to land an amazing line up
like this. Primal Scream, Chase and Status, Catfish and the
Bottlemen, loads more incredible acts and even more
yet to come – wow, wow, wow. Primal Scream headline
much larger festivals in their own right and Catfish and
the Bottlemen have already sold out the 8,000 capacity
Manchester Castlefield Bowl this summer, putting in
context what a massive coup securing all of these great
acts really is.”
The insanely brilliant line up doesn’t stop there. Acts such
as Radio One favourites Vant and Clean Cut Kid are set
to play, as well as Echo and the Bunnymen who will bring
their massive tunes including the anthemic ‘Nothing Lasts
Forever’. The Selecter will deliver their ska with bite on
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25 25
INTERVIEWS
INTERVIEWS
HAPPY MONDAYS HEAD TO TEESSIDE
“THE SEX AND DRUGS IS STRIPPED BACK NOW SO IT IS PURELY ABOUT THE MUSIC”
The Happy Mondays’ notoriously ‘radgey’ frontman, Shaun
Ryder, is someone who has never been afraid of breaking the
rules. Now a dad of six, a reality TV stint under his belt, and
notably settling down a little from being a poster boy for the
90’s rave culture in the country, Shaun Ryder speaks to Becca
Fergus about reforming the band, new music releases and their
upcoming date at Tees Valley Arena, Middlesbrough.
Happy Mondays have been around for quite some time, so
what would you class as your biggest achievement to date?
I suppose it would be staying in and hanging around in the
music and entertainment industry for what would be over 30
years - I’d say that is a pretty good achievement! It’s all good,
and it’s always getting better, so that is definitely an achievement
to me.
How would you compare touring now to that of the culture in
the late 80’s and early 90’s?
I’m in two different minds now. In the late 80’s and early 90’s I
was a young kid, and now we’re in 2016, I’m a pretty old bloke.
I mean, if I was an 18 year old kid now, things would be a lot
different!
Happy Mondays resonate largely with your fans from the
beginning, but also with teenagers today. How do you think
you’ve made this possible?
A lot of it is probably to do with mine and Bez’s reality
television that we got in to - that definitely brings a lot more
fans about.And when I was in my 20’s and discovering The
Velvet Underground and The Doors, if there is good music out
there, then you are hopefully going to find it.
Will you be dipping back to the world of reality TV anytime soon?
The sort of stint we just did in the jungle, where we did a bit
for the planet and helped tribes out and enabled them to carry
on living how they do, if anything like that came along again
then I’d absolutely be game for that. If they asked me to do I’m
A Celebrity again then I would be straight back in that jungle!
Being in the jungle is a lot bloody easier than being out in
reality, I’m telling you.
What can we expect from your Tees Valley Arena show?
Just a whole load of rock ‘n’ roll.The sex and drugs is stripped
back now so it is purely about the music, but you can still
expect a brill show and I take that for granted. Plus, we are all
enjoying it which is the main thing, and the money is irrelevant.
We’re just a bunch of old farts still plodding on with what we
love to do!
Will there be any new music in the future?
Yeeeeees! We don’t know when, but I have a solo album
coming out pretty soon and a new Black Grape album.And
Alan McGee wants a new Mondays album, and Alan McGee
gets what he wants.
Do you prefer playing big capacity shows or smaller venues?
I am a BIG venue guy; we’ve played them and I have a bit of a
problem. I would’ve loved to have seen The Rolling Stones in
a small venue but I prefer the big capacity, and when you can
stand there and you are nose to nose, eye to eye and can hear
what they’re yapping out when they’re whispering, it’s all a bit
freaky.
Happy Mondays play Tees Valley Arena on Saturday 7th May.
Tickets, priced from £32.50, are available from Skiddle.com.
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WHITLEY BAY’S LISBON TO PLAY STOCKTON’S KU BAR!
“WE’VE BEEN BOGGED DOWN ENOUGH BY THE INDUSTRY AND WE’RE JUST READY TO LET IT ALL GO”
Sal Wilcox caught up with ‘native’ Whitley Bay indie band
Lisbon, to discuss their latest music video and upcoming gig at
Stockton’s legendary venue, KU Bar.
It’s a pleasure to have you back with NE Volume. For those
who aren’t familiar with your music, can you summarise your
sound in a sentence?
Thanks for having us back, the pleasures all ours! A slice of
alternative pop with an occasional appetite for destruction.
So you’ve just released the video for your latest single ‘Vice’.
What was that experience like?
Yeah it was amazing to just be part of it.We did it with our
mate Kristian Young - he’s done loads of stuff with Example
and he produced Shields’ new video for ‘Alive’ which is
amazing. But it was just cool to kind of see it unfold in the
venue which we’ve pretty much musically grown up in. It was
quite nice to do it in that room as it has a lot of sentimental
value to us.
What’s been the greatest challenge you’ve faced through
being in Lisbon? Either as individuals or the mechanics of the
band itself?
I think just the general nature and fickleness of the industry
- so much so that we’ve wrote a song about it and it’s our
next single, ha! I think that’s been the toughest challenge for
us. It’s kind of weird looking back on when we started and
almost feeling naive to the whole thing but I think we’ve been
bogged down enough by the industry and we’re just ready to
let it all go; especially with the new music we’re creating. It’s
almost been a good thing because we’ve found new places for
inspiration - all be it slightly darker places. I think it’s the most
honest we’ve been with ourselves, though.
Which bands have had the greatest impact on you, both
individually and as a band?
We all have a mutual love for great pop records including
Steely Dan (especially), and George Benson and stuff like
that. Recently, we’ve been listening to quite a lot of jazz
(introduced/forced upon us by our tour manager, James)
but he’s showed us artists like Roy Hargrove and Jon Cleary
which we’ve all been playing none stop. Roy Hargrove has
a track called ‘Strasbourg/St Denis’ which is a personal
favourite. But we also love bands like Friendly Fires, Little
Comets and Miami Horror.
What advice would you give young local bands wanting to
‘get out there’? What’s worked for you, or what would you
suggest doing or avoiding?
I think the best advice we could give is to really take your
time and decide where you stand musically and personally. Be
honest with what you do and who you are because people
can see through the cracks pretty easily.
You’re set to play the legendary KU Bar, a venue that
sky-rocketed the careers of bands such as Arctic Monkeys.
How are you feeling? Is it closer to the nerves end or the
excitement end of the spectrum?
Definitely excited.There’s going to be a lot of new music and
we can’t wait to get it out there and show everyone what
we’ve been mustering up.
To get your hands on tickets (and avoid crippling
disappointment) to any of Lisbon’s upcoming gigs head to:
wearelisbon.com/gigs.
Photography by Adam Barnsley
27
INTERVIEWS
INTERVIEWS
Photographed by Meg Skaff
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL LEGENDS JAMES HEAD TO THE NORTH EAST
“I HAVE TO ADMIT, THE NORTH EAST CROWD ARE ALWAYS VERY VOCAL”
Since forming over 30 years ago, James have released 14 albums
and toured all over the world.Their latest album,‘Girl At The End
Of The World’, was released on March 18th and to promote it
the Manchester band are playing a 15-date UK tour including a
show at Newcastle City Hall. Callum Thornhill chatted to longest
serving member, Jim Glennie, to find out more about what is
happening.
How do you think your Newcastle City Hall date will differ
from your last gig in Newcastle at the 02 Academy?
The rock ‘n’ roll mayhem will have to be held back, but I don’t
think it will have a massive effect on the North East audience.
I have to admit, the North East crowd are always very vocal and
come for a good time.
Do you have any fond memories of the North East?
I haven’t been to the North East since Christmas – my wife lives
there. It’s a part of the world I’m familiar with because of the
family gatherings.
The tour is titled ‘Girl at the End of the World tour’, but will
you still be playing the ‘classics?’
It’s all about getting the balance right.When we play our own
shows we get about two hours so there will be a lot of the new
album, simply because we want to play it.We’ll be doing a few
off the last record but then we will shove some more obscure
tracks in there including maybe some B-sides or album tracks we
haven’t played in a long time that people won’t expect.
Is playing the obscure tracks a way to keep things fresh while
on tour?
Absolutely.With this tour, we’re taking out a new record
with songs we haven’t played before and we like the fear and
uncertainly of having to make a song work.You look down at the
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setlist and think, uh-oh, and make sure it works – it’s the same
with the oldies that we haven’t played in years.We have to keep
it fresh for us so we have to be selfish for ourselves or we would
get bored. Playing the same songs every night would be soul
destroying.
I heard that Brian Eno influenced ‘Girl At The End Of The
World’, explain more...
It wasn’t massive, but we had a few problem songs in the studio
and Brian is brilliant with weird and wonderful ways to fix things.
We’ve worked with him on five albums, so we took him them
songs.We went to him with ‘Nothing But Love’, which is the big
single of the album, and he helped to sort it out. Eno is wonderful
for that, he is a great guy to work with all round.
You released Greenpeace Palace Concert for Record Store
Day which sold out straight away – how did that happen?
It was mental. I love Record Store Day - I think it’s a great
idea.We recorded the album and only one song went on the
Greenpeace compilation album so it is nice that it is finally out
there.The rest of it was sat there untouched which was a shame
really. Obviously, everyone charges down and it will probably
be stuck in someone’s collection unplayed, but it will eventually
make its way out to the big wide world so it will be shared and
exchanged.
What are the plans for after the tour?
A few UK festivals, a few foreign festivals, then we are going to
the Southern Hemisphere. 2016 is full of exciting things really as
it’s always a big year when a record comes out.
James play Newcastle City Hall on Tuesday 17th May.Tickets,
priced from £39.60 in advance, are available from Seetickets.com.
AMERICAN ROCK BAND, WHEATUS ON ALBUM NUMBER SEVEN!
“ALBUM SEVEN IS WRITTEN AND PARTIALLY RECORDED. WE MAY ACTUALLY PLAY ONE OF THE SONGS ON TOUR THIS TIME”
American rock band and household name,Wheatus, are set
to embark on a busy tour this spring/summer season.They
are no strangers to British soil, but this tour is set out to be
a little different for them. Kaitlin Behan asked to Brendan
B. Brown some questions to find out how he expects the
upcoming shows to pan out.
What does it mean to you to play the UK? And what’s the
difference, in your opinion, between UK and US audiences?
We tour nooks & crannies in the UK.We’re trying to get to
every little pub and club we can in all the small towns because
that’s where all the real vibes are. After 10 years of that, “fans”
have become friends. It’s a family, really.
You’re supporting Busted with Emma Blackery this spring/
summer AND headlining your own shows throughout the
tour. How does that feel?
There are bigger rooms than our tours in 2008, 10, 11, 12,
and 14, so that’s a significant change. Really though, no matter
the size, understanding that you must look out for and take
care of all your tour mates - no matter what band they’re
with – that’s what makes it work.That’s how we operate. As
lead singer, I’m just as responsible for getting the sick crew
member their Lemsip as anyone.
How do you make up the set-lists? Do you stick to your
more well-known material or do you like to have an even mix
of popular and obscure?
We don’t.The crowd call the songs out.We work up about
45-50 tracks from over our six albums and they call requests.
I don’t think that will work in the arenas with Busted, but
that’s how our shows have gone since 2005 and we’ll do that
this time as well in the clubs. It’s a good way to stay sharp and
have the crowd get what they truly want, and it’s never the
same night to night.
Do you have any big plans for the band in future after the
Busted tour has ended?
We don’t really think big - we’re not ambitious that way.The
albums are done with the goal of reinventing the thing, which
is why we don’t have a label or management.When you do it
that way, taking a longer time to make something you’re very
interested in, you have to forfeit certain industry comforts
- that’s always been the plan. Had we wanted to be in the
spotlight more I believe we’d have simply made our first
album as many times as we could before insanity set in. But
we opted for something more personally stimulating, having
caught a glimpse of the other way early on.
Do you have any new material in the works for your fans?
Album seven is written and partially recorded.We may
actually play one of the songs on tour this time, but we’ll have
to see. I’m also half way through an EP with Josh Devine and
Sandy Beales from the One Direction Band.Those guys are
incredible musicians and the material is very different from
Wheatus – it’s very moody and intense. I also have a song
with James Bourne that’s written & worked up, and he may
join us for it in the arena shows with Busted.There’s another
collaboration I did with Janet Devlin last year that I’m excited
about. Another with our bassplayer’s/BV’s band,The Ventura
Project.
Finally, any last comments to make on the tour and your
upcoming projects?
The future is so bright that I’ve got to wear a surgical mask so
I don’t get pneumonia and have to cancel shows.
Tickets to see Wheatus at Think Tank? in Newcastle on
Monday 16th May are available at seetickets.com for just
£16.50.
29
INTERVIEWS
INTERVIEWS
BABY STRANGE
“WE JUST CAN’T WAIT FOR OTHER PEOPLE TO HEAR IT SO WE CAN SING ALONG TOGETHER AT SHOWS”
It’s been a long wait for fans of Baby Strange to see their
favourite band perform a headline tour here in the North
East - especially after their impressive Think Tank? gig last
year. Finally that wait has come to an end, as Baby Strange
and fellow Glaswegian band White are heading out on tour
together. Ahead of their Cluny date, Nathan Douthwaite
caught up with the band to discuss the gig and what the
future has instore for this Scottish trio.
You’ve played the Cluny before, supporting Slaves, what do
you think of the venue?
We really liked the venue. And that was a great gig. We
can’t wait to come back again to play in front of our North
East followers.
White are coming on tour with you...how did both bands
meet?
We’ve known them for around 6 years - we met from
playing in different bands around Glasgow. They know a
lot about us, and we know a lot about them and their
background, so we’re looking forward to playing with them
again.
What’s it like for all of you (as a band) to break out of the
Glasgow music scene?
It’s a good feeling. It’s good to show the rest of the UK
what Glasgow has to offer.
We weren’t aware of the T-Rex track at the time, we just
liked how the two words sounded together. We love the
song now though!
That’s an interesting fact, and I’m glad the confusion is
cleared up! Are there any other big influences on your
band/music?
We like stuff like The Clash, D.A.F, The Blue Nile, Ian Jury,
so I’d say we have a bit of a punk influence really which, I
suppose, can be heard through our sound.
Everything you’ve released so far has been met with
positive attention. Is there more music coming soon? (An
album maybe?)
We have a few singles lined up then an album is coming
after summer. We can’t wait for people to hear it!
I think I speak for every fan when I say we’re all excited to
hear it (an album). What can people expect from your gig?
We love to perform and we put 100% into each and every
gig. So expect high energy and a good time.
The band will be heading out with indie/disco/pop band
White, who have had a successful run with their tracks
‘Living Fiction’ and ‘Future Pleasures.’
Tickets, priced at £8.00 in advance (plus fees), are available
now on seetickets.com.
Am I right in saying you took Baby Strange from T-Rex’s
‘Slider’ album?
We get that question a lot and it’s not actually the case!
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MILK TEETH ARE COMING TO NEWCASTLE
“WE NEVER SET OUT TO WRITE MUSIC A CERTAIN WAY, IT KIND OF JUST HAPPENED LIKE THIS”
Milk Teeth are coming to Newcastle this month and will
be bringing their unique punk-y sound with them. Katt
Mudd managed to catch up with them whilst they were out
touring the US.
On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you for your headline
tour and what are you looking forward to the most?
At least a 9.7. We haven’t done a headline tour in ages so we
are all so excited! We’ve just been doing support tours since
our album came out so it’s a good opportunity to play more
new stuff, if we remember how! We’ve also got a few little
surprises for the shows.
How did it come about you guys signing with Hopeless
Records?
Well at the time we had a lot of labels after us, which was
weird! But Hopeless seemed the one that get us the most,
and wanted us just to be us! One major label said they liked
us for the “metal parts”. We definitely made the right choice
though. They’re the best label for us and so nice to work
with. Plus they’ve put out so many good bands.
You recently released your first full length album in ‘Vile
Child,’ but who were your biggest influences when it came
to writing the tracks?
I guess it varies from person to person. Some of us like
really heavy metal and some of us like pop! We are however
quite inflicted by 90’s punk quite heavily - bands like Green
Day and Sonic Youth. But we never set out to write music a
certain way. It just kind of happened like this.
On Tuesday 3rd May you’ll be playing Think Tank?, Newcastle.
Are you looking forward to coming back to the North East?
Yeah, for sure! We’ve played Newcastle three times now
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(I think) and each time we’ve played a completely different
venue - from the academy to this tiny pub where we
thought we’d get our heads kicked in. But the crowd has
always been nice to us there so we are stoked to come
back. Plus, there’s an awesome burrito shop there.
What’s your favourite venue to play in the UK?
We play so many under so many different circumstances
that it’s so hard to pick a favourite. I know that we always
have fun playing The Key Club in Leeds, though. The sound
guy is nice and it’s a good sized room too. Chris did pull
down the stairs on stage once though.
The punk scene is quite small within the mainstream. Do
you have any advice for anyone trying to start a punk band
that you wish someone had told you at the beginning of
Milk Teeth?
You’ve got to put the work in and play as many shows
as you can. When we started we drove up and down the
country for no money when we had work at 6.00am. It’s
tough. But if you play a room of 50 people and make 1 new
fan then it’s all worth it.
Where do you see Milk Teeth this time next year?
Hopefully playing more and more shows. We’ve got some
cool tours and festivals in the works for this year which
we can’t wait for! We just want to keep on having fun and
making music that we love.
Milk Teeth are playing Think Tank? in Newcastle on Tuesday
3rd May. Tickets, priced at, £8.80, are available from
seetickets.com.
Photography by Andy Watson
INTERVIEWS
AMELIA COBURN ON HER SOLO ARC GIG
“I’M ALSO HOPING TO INTRODUCE SOME BRAND NEW COVER SONGS THAT I’VE BEEN WORKING ON RECENTLY”
Local singer-songwriter,Amelia Coburn, will be playing her very
own solo gig at ARC, Stockton this coming month so Nathan
Douthwaite caught up with her to discuss the gig, David Bowie
and working on her own music.
first time I heard ‘Starman’ blasting from my Dad’s turntable: as
soon as it broke into the classic chorus, I was hooked. I began to
delve further into his songs and other music from that era, which
I now incorporate into my sets today.
You’re obviously familiar with Teesside venues...so what do you
like about the ARC/what makes that venue appealing?
The ARC is a well-established and popular venue in this area. I
recently supported Vin Garbutt there and I thoroughly enjoyed
the experience. I’ll be playing in the Studio Theatre which has got
a fantastic, intimate atmosphere to it.
Have you got any other big inspirations/influences?
My influences are captured mainly through the artists I cover,
such as The Smiths, Kate Bush,The Police etc. But the Ukulele
Orchestra of Great Britain, and French band Nouvelle Vague’s
groovy renditions of classic songs then inspired me to cover
songs with a twist on my uke.
What can people expect from your headline ARC gig?
There’ll be a few favourites in there, but I’m also hoping to
introduce some brand new cover songs that I’ve been working
on recently.
Do you think you’ll be releasing any of your own music this year?
Who knows? I’m currently starting to work on original material
and some local songwriters have expressed a desire to write
songs for and with me.
You’re a very diverse musician, so what kind of music will you be
playing at this gig?
A bit of everything, I suppose. I’ll be dipping into my regular
repertoire of new wave and indie music. But, given it’ll be a more
intimate atmosphere, I’ll be able to play more mellow tracks too
such as obscure album songs from The Beatles which I often
can’t play in rowdy venues.
Back to the gig, will you be meeting fans afterwards?
Without sounding too much like David Brent, it does feel a little
strange calling them ‘fans’, as I’ve never thought of them as that, it
all feels abit surreal. But yes, I really like having a chat afterwards
with those who come to support my gigs.
You perform a great cover of Bowie’s ‘Life on Mars’...do you think
you may play that?
I first played that song back in June last year at the Festival
of Wonderful Stuff. Since then, it hasn’t been removed from
my setlist! So at some point in the evening,‘Life on Mars’ will
definitely be heard, and perhaps even a few other Bowie tracks.
As an artist what did he (Bowie) mean to you?
For me, Bowie opened the doors to 70s music. I remember the
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Anything you want to say to those who have already bought
tickets and are coming to see you perform?
Just a thank you for buying tickets and supporting my music hopefully you won’t be disappointed.
Amelia will play the ARC on Saturday 21st May. Tickets are now
fully sold out for this event!
BETH MACARI RELEASES HER DEBUT SINGLE
“I THINK I MIGHT EVEN BE BECOMING A BELIEBER”
North East singer-songwriter Beth Macari is set to release
her debut single ‘Voodoo’ in the coming weeks, so Nathan
Douthwaite caught up with Beth to find out more.
Is ‘Voodoo’ going to lead onto any more music this year?
Definitely! I’ve been writing lots over the past year and I have
at least another three songs that I plan to release in 2016.
Firstly, what a track! It has the elements of an 80’s funk song
but still holds the relevance of a pop hit in the modern music
scene. So, what’s it about?
‘Voodoo’ is about being trapped in an unhealthy relationship,
and finding your way out.There are actually some quite dark
lyrics within it; however I think that’s disguised by the fact
that it’s an uptempo, funky song. I use the idea of witch craft
and voodoo dolls to symbolise the imbalance of control and
manipulation within the relationship. But of course, there is a
happy ending.
Having seen the music video for ‘Voodoo’, I have to say it’s a
very fun/inventive video.What was it like filming it?
It was so much fun. Since being a little girl I’ve dreamt of
doing my own music video so it was a bit of a dream come
true. It was also a little scary in the sense that I had to decide
on literally everything, from which company to film it with,
the video concept itself, hair and make up, wardrobe, props,
everything.
Your vocals have a slight resemblance of the late Amy
Winehouse, but who are your influences?
I have been told that a few times, and I think it’s a big
compliment;Amy Winehouse was an incredible artist. I’m
influenced by all things soul - I love powerful vocals like Aretha
Franklin and Adele - but I also try to keep up with what’s
current.At the moment, I am really enjoying Jess Glynne
&DuaLipa, and I think I might even be becoming a ‘Belieber’.
So who are the main influences on this track?
I wrote this song when I was on holiday in Egypt with my mum
two years ago. I wrote lots of new music on that holiday, and
to be honest they all varied massively.At the time, I was loving
listening to Pharell and to Paloma Faith, but I wouldn’t say this
song was influenced by anyone. Song writing in the sunshine
was the only influence I needed. I was just enjoying writing
whatever I felt, wherever my creativity took me.
You’ve featured on Sky One’s ‘Bring the Noise’...what was that like?
I was approached by music producer Nigel Wright as I’d
worked with him previously (he’s a musical genius). He was the
music director for the show, he put me forward, and I am ever
so thankful that I got the part.
Has getting that position got you in contact with anyone
famous or opened up any other opportunities?
I got to work with some amazing people on ‘Bring the Noise’,
and when the show got aired some of those people (who
happen to be famous) were very receptive of me. David
Tennant posted a photo of him and I with Martin Kemp on his
official Facebook Page, and some of the celebrity guests also
tweeted me some lovely things. Melanie C retweeted a gig of
mine and said that I was an incredible singer, which was a little
surreal to see as I really used to want to be a spice girl.
You can also see Beth supporting the New Orleans Hot 8
Brass Band at Riverside, Newcastle on Sunday 22nd May.
Tickets, priced at £16.50, are available from seetickets.com.
35
GIG REVIEWS
Nai Harvest
+ Abbattoir Blues at Think Tank?, Newcastle
- 27/03/2016
Nai Harvest, the up-and-coming indie/rock two-piece, returned
to Newcastle for the second time this month with a headline
show at ThinkTank? The two-piece released a brand new hit
album just over a year ago, and have hit an equally impressive
come back with a brand new single released around their
most recent tour.The 10-date whistle stop tour across the
UK displayed both new and old material for both the new and
older fans which was the perfect combination of refreshment
and nostalgia.Warming up the crowd was Abattoir Blues, who
attracted over half of the crowd in prior to the headlining
set - something many supporting acts fail to achieve.With a
brief discography on Soundcloud at present, it appeared that a
tour with these indie/alt veterans would provide a welcomed
platform to display and project their image and sound. Next
up were Nai Harvest.And despite only being a two-piece, they
didn’t fail to inject a major amount of energy and atmosphere
into the tiny venue that had slowly filled up. Fans crammed
around the barrier-less stage and clambered to stage dive
and climb across the ceilings; with pure musical passion and
adrenaline. It appeared almost every single member of the
crowd was familiar with the material and each and every one
was fully engaged, involved and energised within the tiny venue
- proving and displaying exactly why this band deserve their
place at the top of the indie/alt scene currently.
Written by Katie Cain
All At Sea
+ Glass Harbour at Empire, Middlesbrough
– 01/04/2016
Written by Katt Mudd | Photography by Eddy Maynard
36
The whole of Middlesbrough seemed to be at the Empire,
Middlesbrough tonight as the queue was snaking around the
venue before the doors had even opened.This is the first time All
At Sea have headlined the Sumo main stage.And after supporting
Hey! Alaska at their reunion show on the 27th November, I’m
sure the band have been eager to headline it ever since.
Glass Harbour opened up to a room that was slowly filling
with people.Their energy and sheer excitement was clear
as frontman, Rob Bedford, bounced around the stage; getting
the growing crowd hyped up for the headline band.Their
performance was aggressive and full of power and showcased
another big talent emerging from the smog of Middlesbrough.
After the opening band, it was time for All At Sea to take to the
stage.With the room now full of people, the band appeared.
And with a loud shout of “Middlesbrough”, the crowd lost it.
The gig-goers did anything frontman, Jack Tyreman, asked them
to - from starting a circle pit to shouting along; and people even
fought for the mic to shout the words back to them. From start
to finish, the room was filled with an electric atmosphere and
you couldn’t help but see All At Sea outgrowing the stage they
were on.There are big things to come from Middlesbrough band
All At Sea, and they solidly proved that as they ripped the stage
to pieces tonight.
GIG REVIEWS
GIG REVIEWS
Happy Daggers
+ GUFRA + Chaos Jigsaw at TSOne, Middlesbrough
- 03/04/2016
Middlesbrough’s most famous fro took to the stage again
tonight to open Into Tomorrow’s monthly gig. Ex Bi:Lingual
frontman, Dylan Cartlidge, is showcasing his solo project
with the pub goers of TSOne with nervous excitement; eager
to hear reactions and feedback to fuel his upcoming work.
Breaking away from such a locally reputable band has to be
tough, but Dylan gets an extremely warm reception. His new
material is less smashing up your local HMV and more driving
with the seat back and the roof down – experimental, groovy,
and emotional. Next up are GUFRA, who present a new
member- a keyboard player- to add another layer to their indie
dream pop wall of sound.The young band performs with the
confidence and skill of bands years their senior.And with fast
fingered riffs still managing to lull you into a shoegaze haze,
they’re definite ones to watch out for. Headlining the night are
the highly-anticipated rock/disco band Happy Daggers.Their
mighty power of four vocalists provides the audience with
an auditory feast; each one possessing different ranges and
techniques including the notorious disco falsetto.The band
delivered non-stop shoulder jerking tunes to which no one
in the audience stood still.Their cover of Black Box’s ‘Ride on
Time’ was explosive and it is the most impressed I have ever
been with an unsigned local band. Soul was well and truly
delivered tonight – and it was electric.
Written and photographed by Kaitlin Behan
The Hubbards
+ Joe Ramsey + Boycott The Radio at KU Bar, Stockton
- 08/04/2016
Looking to put on a gig?
Space Bar
Rye Hill Campus, Scotswood Rd, Newcastle upon
Tyne NE4 7SA
250 capacity venue fully equipped for live gigs. Available for hire
for all occasions: Weddings, Birthdays, Retirements, Christenings,
Children's Parties, Conferences, Live band evenings.
contact [email protected] or telephone 01912004027
Written by Katie Hall | Photography by Sam Edge
Tonight, KU Bar provided a selection of Northern delights
ranging from the local alternative rockers Boycott The Radio,
to the fun indie-pop of The Hubbards, via the sensational Joe
Ramsey. Boycott The Radio made their KU bar debut with a
sensational set. Following their hit EP release earlier this year,
the four-piece band have been making waves across the local
music scene. Having a great sound, and an excellent enthusiasm
despite the slow-growing crowd, the Middlesbrough-based
band seemed at home on the stage. Joe Ramsey seemed to
draw in the wild Friday night party feeling once again.The
Teesside native showcased his latest single ‘Something’, backed
by a full band.With a great, personal style to his heartfelt
songs, Ramsey gave a captivating set. Even with the softer
acoustic ‘You Don’t Have To Leave’, there was a lively sing along
atmosphere that was a hit with the home crowd.The Hubbards
took the headline slot tonight. Beginning proceedings with ‘Dog
Bite’, the Hull and Leeds-based boys introduced KU Bar to
their striking sound. Full of throbbing bass lines, melodic guitars
and the distinctive vocals, they captured the attentions of the
room; even through a slower introduction.‘Pin’ and ‘Bedbugs’
showcased their own new EP in the best light; despite sound
issues.These problems were thankfully resolved in time for
‘Cold Cut’, the final song of their set.
39
GIG REVIEWS
Mouses + Support
at 02 Academy, Newcastle – 08/04/2016
Tonight proved to be exciting for the Teesside music scene
as a number of Teesside-based acts took to the stage at our
well-loved Newcastle O2 Academy.With a notably varied line
up consisting of both bands and solo acts, the night proved to
appeal to a widespread majority of people. Opening the show
was newcomers, Smokin’ Trace, who proved to be quite a
strong contender; executing their delivery to a high standard.
With good communication and relations on stage, they played
a tight set and were well-received. Following was Claire-Jayne,
a solo act from Teesside who has competed and placed highly
in competitions such as TFM’s Big Audition. Her performance
delivery was energetic and she engaged and communicated with
the crowd with ease, but I would have preferred to see some
more original tracks. Next was the highly-anticipated Figmennt
who seem to attract a dedicated and large crowd no matter the
venue or location.The four-piece showcased a number of new
songs weaved in amongst older, more recognised songs such as
their first single,‘She’.The young band are going from strength-tostrength and are becoming increasingly energetic and passionate
on stage.Finally, last band up were lo-fi Billingham band Mouses
- who are becoming a household name in our music scene.They
tonight delivered an energetic and alternative performance.And
with their finesse, experience and confidence they’re without a
doubt set for big things.
Written and photographed by Katie Cain
The Wildcats Of Kilkenny
+ The Gimme Gimmicks at Middlesbrough Town Hall
– 09/04/2016
Written and photograpged by Adam Parkin
40
Tonight,The Gimme Gimmicks and The Wildcats of Kilkenny
blew the roof of the Middlesbrough Town Hall. Over the years,
countless legends have appeared at the venue and it seemed only
fitting that local heroes,The Wildcats of Kilkenny, were chosen
for the closing party before the venue goes through a major
refurbishment. First up tonight were The Gimme Gimmicks - a
tribute to Me First and the Gimme Gimmes. Playing pop punk
covers of songs such as ‘I Will Survive’,‘Jolene’ and ‘Rocket
Man’, these guys were a great support act as they really got
the crowd warmed up and dancing along. Next up were the
band everyone was here to see,The Wildcats of Kilkenny. Led
by Mike McGrother - who had just completed a walk from
Carrickmacross in Ireland to Bishop Auckland - he stayed fresh
and energetic during their two and a half hour performance.
During the set, the band were joined by local male voice choir
Infant Hercules for a section entitled ‘Wild Rover’ which was all
about the story of his journey and his families journey to England.
This part of the set was a very sombre section and included a
version of ‘Ordinary Man’ mixed with Thornaby band Cattle and
Cane’s song ‘Infant Hercules’.The remaining part of the set was
more upbeat and really got the packed crowed dancing. It was a
fantastic closing party for the venue, and it will certainly remain in
my mind for years to come.
GIG REVIEWS
Spear Of Destiny
Wolfmother
at ARC, Stockton - 21/04/2016
+ Electric Citizen at 02 Academy, Newcastle
-10/04/2016
Ohio’s own Electric Citizen bounded on stage and made a
statement of intent with opening track ‘Savage’.The femalefronted five-piece - think Grace Slick meets Sabbath - tore
through their seven song, thirty-minute slot showcasing tracks
off their ‘Higher Time’ album; with the highlights being ‘Misery
Keeper’ and riff-tastic closer ‘Evil’.Wolfmother, mostly wellknown for track ‘Joker and the Thief’, opened with the title track
off their new album ‘Victorious’ - with Stockdale’s screaming
vocals seemed intent on seeing if he could shatter all of the
beer glasses in the place.‘Woman’ saw the mosh pit in full swing,
‘White Unicorn’ saw the lads having as good a dance around the
stage as the crowd were off it, and the hypnotic driving rhythm
of ‘Gypsy Caravan’ saw the bassist on overtime, playing bass with
his left hand, keyboard with his right and adding backing vocals
to a microphone that was at waist height! The manic ‘Apple Tree’
had the head-bangers in delight once again.And a clap-along for
‘Dimension’ was followed with the quiet intro of ‘Mind’s Eye’.
As the moodiness of the song built, so did the histrionics of
Peres (bass and keys) - culminating in Dave Lee Roth style leaps
being performed on a keyboard. I sensed that the 02’s policy
of:“If you crowd surf, you are out” was being seriously tested
and sure enough breaking point was reached with the band’s
driving encore ‘Joker and the Thief’.Their mission was complete.
Newcastle had been devoured by Wolfmother.
Kirk Brandon is no stranger to Stockton; having played in the
town on a number of occasions with his numerous bands.
Tonight, he returned this time to the ARC to perform with his
band, Spear of Destiny.When arriving at the ARC, the venue
had chairs out.This was a bit strange as it didn’t really suit the
style of gig. However, this didn’t matter.As soon as Kirk and the
rest of the band appeared on stage the area in front of the stage
was full of people stood dancing to the first track of the night
‘Young Men’.The set continued with the melodic guitar solos, the
rhythmic bass, and Brandon’s vocals fully immersing the audience
in the performance.The tour was put in place to showcase
songs from over 30 years of the bands’ history, and they were
modifying the setlist at different venues; so you may not hear all
your favourites but the audience certainly weren’t disappointed.
As the set continued, more and more people moved closer to
the stage and were dancing around and enjoying tracks such as
‘Grapes of Wrath’ and ‘The Wheel’. Kirk even played a snippet
of ‘God Save the Queen’ - since it was the Queen’s birthday
today.At the end of ‘Pumpkin Man’, the band walked off stage
for a short moment before they returned for the encore.The
band went on to perform ‘Land of Shame’ and ‘Liberator’ which
created a fantastic atmosphere; with the audience getting on like
one massive family. It was the perfect ending to a fantastic gig.
Written and photographed by Adam Parkin
Written by Nev Larkin | Photography by Gordon Armstrong
The Kets
+ Andy Johnson at the Vane Arms, Thorpe Thewles
– 15/04/2016
www.needmusic.co.uk THE BEST
ACOUSTIC
GIGS
EVERY WEEK
Written and photographed by Adam Parkin
42
Tonight was a cold, wet evening in Thorpe Thewles.There were
fireworks and the smoke alarms went off.Was this a normal
Friday night in The Vane Arms? No it wasn’t.This was Guestlist
featuring Andy Johnson and The Kets. First up was Teessider,
Andy Johnson, who’s known for playing in bands such as Cherry
Head, Cherry Heart and The Southmartins. Did you know he
has also produced several solo albums? And tonight he was
showcasing his latest album,‘Underneath the Damsen Tree’,
which he wrote and recorded in just seven days.The tracks
from the new album are something special, and include a wide
range of sombre and upbeat songs. One of my favourites of the
night was ‘Strange Relationship’ as the intro is created with a
loop of sounds developed on the spot. Next up were The Kets.
This socially-minded acoustic rock band from Peterlee were a
hit with the crowd.They were the perfect blend of youth and
maturity, tension and release, familiarity and uniqueness, politics
and partying.The band were also passionate of their local roots,
singing songs about the local area such as ‘A19’ and ‘Peterlee Bad
Boys’.The stand out song of their set was ‘Ukraine’ which had
most of the crowd in stitches.The set finished with an encore
from the lead singer, Mick Arnell, playing a few covers including
‘When I’m 64’ by The Beatles.Guestlist at the Vane Arms has a
great community atmosphere and vibe and should not be missed.
Delivering Live Music
@Needmusicltd
GRAPHIC DESIGN
WILL SAVE THE WORLD.
RIGHT AFTER
ROCK & ROLL DOES.
ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS
Far Pacific ‘Love Bomb’ - Single Review
Eujenics - ‘Alec Guiness’
Single Review
Steve McCormick –
‘Changing’ Album Review
‘Love Bomb’ is the latest track by
indie-four piece, Far Pacific.The South
Tyneside band have been making a
name for themselves by supporting
acts such as The Big Moon and Lisbon,
as well as playing established North
East venues including Think Tank? and
the Newcastle O2 Academy.The track
opens with a smooth synth bass and
is enriched by a dreamy piano lick
and a layer of minimalist guitar, before
welcoming a really engaging (and
almost choir like) ‘call and response’
style vocals.The vocals remind me
of a middle ground between Josh
Coddington (The SSS) and Nate
Ruess (Fun), whilst still channelling
that slightly nasally grit that’s become
as essential trope of every up-andcoming indie band.The song is then
elevated by a charming guitar riff
- akin to those found in The XX’s
‘Islands’.The same riff is then repeated
in a more vivacious fashion in the
pre-chorus, accompanied by punchy
percussion, and this creates a big, rich
sound. From this point onwards, the
six and half minute song gets gradually
more impressive, incorporating
indulgent guitar riffs and solos. If
‘Love Bomb’ is the benchmark for Far
Pacific’s sound, then I’m eager to hear
more from the group. It’s refreshing
to hear indie tracks that don’t stick
to tried and tested formulas, as the
unusual vocal style gives the song so
much character and makes it a really
interesting listen.
The haunting vocals that open
Eujenics’ newest single ‘Alec Guinness’
sets the tone for the whole song.
The whispers of: “you’re such a
charm” develops into a rock ballad
that mixes pop-punk and alternative
rock perfectly together.The spaceyairy vocals give the track a threedimensional feel - so it’s more than
just the standard “heavy” rock track.
During certain lines a harder, rougher
vocal appears to harmonise alongside
the main vocal which, of course, is a
common convention of alternative
music; and it’s nice to hear it used
in this track.The guitars – one fully
distorted and blasting chords create
the head banging riff, the other - a
little less distorted playing a lead
guitar effect, add even more musical
dimensions to the track.The drums
carry the pace of the track - they’re
high-tempo and allow for the other
instruments to thrash over the
top of them. Mid-way through, the
song reaches a breakdown where
everything is stripped back apart from
one riff and a slower drum beat.The
vocals go softer again, and the image
of a mosh pit opening appears in the
listeners mind.The song then drops
again, and it feels like the full track has
built up to this moment - the final
push that would bring a live show to
an ultimate close. ‘Alec Guinness’ is
an alternative rock masterpiece and
it will certainly give the Eujenics the
recognition they deserve.
Middlesbrough singer-songwriter
Steve McCormick has a third
album out in ‘Changing.’ He’s an
accomplished and confident guitarist
and performer with gentle vocals.
And the tracks he’s developed are
well-crafted and pleasant; as is evident
in the track ‘Changes’. ‘Dream Tonight’
and ‘Sleeping Out Tonight’ are sweet
and grown-up love songs reminiscing
over the memories of a relationship.
‘Incredible’ is a track to listen to when
you want to think back to the time
you met the person you love - in that
idyllic period of time when you first
got together. ‘Smile’ and ‘We Can Do
Anything’ remind me of the Lightning
Seeds or Beautiful South with their
simple but pretty melodies and are
my standout tracks of the album.
More upbeat tracks ‘Cry’ and ‘Let
You Down’ mix up the tempo of the
album with a good driving rhythm. But
word of advice, do not listen to Steve
if you have had a break-up, want to
sit in a dark room and be pissed off
or have sworn off love forever.You
will just throw your cynicism all over
it, but it’s highly recommended when
you want to secretly daydream about
someone and not be too cool about
it. Sentimental? Yes, in buckets. And
the lyrics a little on the cheesy side at
times, but the charming melodies and
general ambience of the tracks make
this perfect for a bit of daydreaming
about your crush; or perhaps sitting
thinking over loves past.
Purchase the single from the band
themselves by messaging them on
Facebook.
You can listen to the track now on
Soundcloud.
You can download the album now on
Bandcamp.
Written by Nathan Douthwaite
Written by Stephanie Thompson
Written by Sal Wilcox
44
Hazels –
‘The Cure/Can’t Ignore’
Single Review
The third single from Newcastle’s
Hazels carries their run of fantastic
releases. ‘The Cure’ opens with a dark
guitar riff - something you might hear
on the Arctic Monkey’s ‘Humbug’
album.The vocals, covered in reverb,
come in and up the pace of the track;
amplified by the high-tempo drum
beat and effective use of symbols.
The guitar riff is isolated once again
around the 1:20 mark, with a soft ping
of four-high pitched notes, before the
song drops back into the fast-paced
chorus.We’re then treated to this
climatic drop and the guitar solo
bursts in. ‘Can’t ignore’ is the singles
B-side and it fits perfectly along the
tone of its sister song ‘The Cure’.The
riff is more prominent on this song,
and the full track is based around the
chord progression at its foundations.
The bass can be heard more clearly
on this song as it repeats the rhythm
guitars riff. It adds a lot of substance
to the track and fills out the bottom
end. Again there is this climax
moment, where the frontman repeats:
“more, more, more, back for more”
and the guitar solo breaks out once
again; giving the listener a raw in the
face moment of indie-rock music.The
final notes are long and stretched out
on the lead guitar, and they sustain for
a while before turning into silence.
Purchased the double-sided release
now on Bandcamp.
Written by Nathan Douthwaite
Mouses – ‘Poison’
Single Review
Billingham lo-fi duo, Mouses, formed
in 2014 and are already well-known
for their blistering live performances.
Unfortunately fans didn’t have much
to listen to previously in terms
of recordings, but thankfully the
Teessiders are releasing their debut
single ‘Poison’ this month.The band
are a real DIY, back-to-basics duo comprising of Steven Bardgett and
Nathan Duff - with the single having
been wrapped up in just one afternoon
with Sister 9 Recordings. It’s simply a
stripped back guitarist/vocalist and a
drummer who, despite comparisons
with Weezer and The Jesus and
Mary Chain, are carving their own
niche.‘Poison’ is a track about drugs,
in the form of taking them to deal
with everyday life when you have an
anxiety condition. I have to say though,
it’s the most cheerful and danceable
backdrop to a story of addiction I’ve
heard in many a year - and who says a
serious subject has to be cloaked in a
melancholy melody? This is definitely
an interesting way to treat the issue. If
drugs were uncompromisingly horrible,
nobody would experiment with them,
would they? With vocals as frustrated
as an angry baby, snarling guitar and
a brilliantly memorable chorus, it’s
extremely, stupendously catchy. If you
enjoyed ‘Perseverance’ by Terrorvision,
you’ll like this; although this is by far the
edgier of the two.
The single will be released on Friday
6th May and will be available from the
S9 Shop and most online music stores.
Written by Stephanie Thompson
Artwork by Jack Iverson
Andrew Johnson ‘Goodbye To Yesterday’
- EP Review
Andrew Johnson has been incredibly
prolific over the past decade and a
half.Working with Shoebox Records,
he is now bringing us his latest
acoustic EP ‘Goodbye to Yesterday’
just a few months after releasing
his 15th album ‘From the Damson
Tree’. His EP ‘tour’ is set to begin on
Wed 4th May at the Simply Acoustic
Showcase at The Beckfields, Ingleby
Barwick, and concluding at The
North Terrace Acoustic Showcase,
Newcastle.A proven and talented
songsmith, the title track ‘Goodbye
to Yesterday’, coming from his latest
album, has already been played on Bob
Fischer’s BBC Introducing radio show
accompanied by rave reviews from the
host. Easy listening with a lyrical edge,
this track holds a reminiscing tone as
Andrew recounts the fun and games
of his younger self.‘Sunshine Deluxe’
is a modern take on everything good
about Britpop.The vocals sit back in
the mix; allowing the guitars to lead
with quirky and interesting riffs. Like
the title track, there is a great emphasis
on the lyrics – it’s intelligent music.
Next,‘Tarzan Dreams’ has a cheeky
rhythm with a great vocal link to the
theme of the track.There are so many
hooks in this song that it will never be
a bore. Finally,‘In the Rain’ has a very
modern feel, with clean single guitar
chords and very crisp beats.This track
is a great way to finish off the EP.
Andrew’s latest four-track production
is exclusively available to his Bandcamp
subscribers, so subscribe now.
Written by Adam Taylor
45
NE VOLUME GIG LISTINGS
1st May
• Into Teesside Festival. TSOne,
Middlesbrough. Free.
• The Wild Murphys. The Storytellers,
Stockton. Free.
• Holy Esque. Think Tank?, Newcastle.
£6.60 Adv.
• Steve McCormick. Head of Steam,
Norton. Free.
• The Smokin’ Spitfires. The Cluny,
Newcastle. £6.50 Adv.
• Lisa Marie and the Wildcards. The
Voyager, South Shields. Free.
• The Great Curve + Behold A Pale
Horse. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free.
• So What. The Borough, Sunderland.
Free.
• Bre Musiq. The Cluny 2, Newcastle.
£5.00 Adv.
• Attila The Stockbroker + Jazz Riot.
Middlesbrough Little Theatre. £7.00
Adv/£8.00 OTD.
• Neil O’Brien Entertainment
Presents: Cutting Crew + Blurred
Vision. ARC, Stockton. £15.00 Adv.
• Pindrop Presents: Joe ‘Not So’
Solo + Black and White. Chilli Cake,
Hartlepool. £4.00 Adv/£5.00 OTD.
• Ball Breakers. Fire Lady Luck.
Trillians, Newcastle. Free.
• So What. Eston & Normanby Social
Club. Free.
• F.A.B. The Voyager, South Shields.
Free.
10th May
2nd May
7th May
• Lisbon + Cellar Door + Crazer
Beam. KU Bar. Stockton. £4.00 Adv.
• Fort Hope. Surf Cafe, Tynemouth.
£6.00
• The Cyanide Pills + The Filth. The
Green Room, Stockton. £6.00 Adv
(S.T.B.F)/£8.00 OTD.
• ABC DIY Presents.Vida +
Shambolics + The Mona Lisa’s. 02
Academy 2, Newcastle. £6.00 Adv.
• Cherry Head, Cherry Heart +
Ian Wright. The Vane Arms, Thorpe
Thewles. Free (Pass the Hat)
• Sounds History Saved Presents: The
Icicle Works. ARC, Stockton. £16.00
Adv.
• Darlington RnB Club Presents: Joel
Fish & The Breakdown. The Forum
Music Centre, Darlington. £12.00
Adv.
• Bryan Adams. Metro Radio Arena,
Newcastle. From £39.20 Adv.
• Ghost Band. Trillians, Newcastle.
Free.
• So What. The Centenary, Norton.
Free.
• SSD Concerts Presents: Mandolin
Orange + Support. Head of Steam,
Newcastle. £12.00 Adv.
• Four Worried Men. The Voyager,
South Shields. Free.
3rd May
• SSD Concerts Presents: Barns
Courtney + Support. Head of Steam,
Newcastle. £5.00 Adv.
• Milk Teeth + Black Foxxes + Eat
Me. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.80
Adv.
4th May
• Threadbare + Bares + Weakdaze
+ Stone Hand. Head of Steam,
Newcastle. £4.00 Adv.
• Altan. Sage, Gateshead. From
£15.05 Adv.
• Battle Of The Bands Heat 4
Featuring: Sabretooth Monkey
Sharks + Richie McMahon’s Western
Sky + Justice For Kennedy. Filthy’s,
Newcastle. Free.
5th May
• Chameleons Vox. Think Tank?,
Newcastle. £17.60 Adv.
• Slow Club. The Green Room,
Stockton. £10.00 Adv/£12.00 OTD.
• Fire Lady Luck. Trillians, Newcastle.
Free.
• Insangel Presents: Logoz + Hung Like
Jack.The Three Tuns, Gateshead. Free.
6th May
• Kosoti + Dennis + 3 At Sea + Eve
Simpson. Head of Steam, Newcastle.
£5.00 Adv.
46
• Happy Mondays. TeesValley Arena,
Middlesbrough. From £32.50 Adv.
• Mouses (Single Launch) + The
Magick Godmothers + Crease
+ Ollie Threats. Westgarth,
Middlesbrough.
• Brucy Ripper. The Yellow Rose,
Middlesbrough. Free.
• The Joy Formideable. Think Tank?,
Newcastle. £16.50 Adv.
• Four Letter Word. Railway Tavern,
Darlington. Free.
• Carl Eaton. The Green Room,
Stockton. £4.00 Adv (S.T.B.F)/£5.00
OTD.
• Palominos. The Voyager, South
Shields. Free.
• Plugged Out Featuring Johnny
Boyle. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free.
8th May
• Dan Reed & Danny Vaughn. The
Cluny, Newcastle. £15.00 Adv.
• Plugged Out Featuring Day Release.
The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free.
• Benjamin Robinson. Head of Steam,
Norton. Free.
• Trouble Shooters. The Voyager,
South Shields. Free.
• Soapbox Sessions Featuring Cape
Cub + Open Mic. Hole In The Wall,
Darlington.
9th May
• Fire Lady Luck + Our Blonde
Covers + Alterverse + The Rez.
Head of Steam, Newcastle. £3.00
Adv/£5.00 OTD.
• Anastacia + Philippa Hannah. Sage,
Gateshead. From £37.09 Adv.
11th May
• Battle Of The Bands Quarter
Final 2 Featuring The Pasolas + The
Disagreeables + Love The Sinner.
Filthy’s, Newcastle. Free.
• The Understudies. The Voyager,
South Shields. Free.
• Father John Misty + Khruangbin.
Sage, Gateshead. £19.89 Adv.
• The Gig Cartel Presents: King
King + Dan Patlanksy. 02 Academy,
Newcastle. £20.00 Adv.
• Foxes. Riverside, Newcastle. £17.60
Adv.
• Plugged Out Featuring Kirsty
Forster Duo. Chaplins, Sunderland.
Free.
• May Eddie Vee. The Yellow Rose,
Middlesbrough. Free.
• Snide Remarks + Diablo 66. Railway
Tavern, Darlington. Free.
• The Force. The Voyager, South
Shields. Free.
• John Bramwell (I Am Kloot). Spa
Hotel, Saltburn. £12.00 Adv.
• Plugged Out Featuring Danny Smith
Chaplins, Sunderland. Free.
• The Hyena Kills. Nemix Studios,
Newcastle. £5.00 Adv.
15th May
22nd May
• Inspired Artists Agency Presents:
Nell Bryden. ARC, Stockton. £16.50
Adv.
• The Lurkers. Trillians, Newcastle.
Free.
• Stu Blackburn. Head of Steam,
Norton. Free.
• Mapped Out Presents: God Damn
+ Weirds. Head of Steam, Newcastle.
£6.00 Adv.
• The Baldy Holly Band. The Voyager,
South Shields. Free.
13th May
16th May
12th May
14th May
• Coquin Migale (Single Launch) +
The Pale White + Lord Swans +
Adam Littlemore. Head of Steam,
Newcastle. £4.00 Adv/£6.00 OTD.
• Ben Poole & Steve Nimmo.
Hartlepool Supporters Club. £12.00
Adv/£14.00 OTD.
• Dave Cramp. The Yellow Rose,
Middlesbrough. Free.
• The Baghdaddies. The Cluny,
Newcastle. £8.00 Adv.
• The Rogues. Railway Tavern,
Darlington. Free.
• Wheatus. Think Tank?, Newcastle.
£16.50 Adv.
• Plugged Out Featuring Sam Gibson.
The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free.
18th May
• Baby Strange + White. The Cluny,
Newcastle. £9.00 Adv.
• Terry Reid. The Cluny 2, Newcastle.
£16.50 Adv.
19th May
• SSD Concerts Presents: Lisbon.
Independent, Sunderland. £6.50 Adv.
• Tomb Stone Crow. Trillians,
Newcastle. Free.
20th May
• Movinmusic Presents: Jo Harman.
ARC, Stockton. £12.00 Adv.
• Gasto Promotions Presents: The
Mentulls + Outside In. The Forum
Music Centre, Darlington. £8.00 Adv.
• Talisk. Sage, Gateshead. £8.00 Adv.
• Scratch The Surface.The Normanby,
Middlesbrough.
• American Girl. Trillians, Newcastle.
Free.
• Soul Central. The Voyager, South
Shields. Free.
• So What. Billingham Cons Club.
Free.
• Band of Friends + Paul Rose.
Hartlepool Supporters Club. £14.00
Adv/£16.00 OTD.
21st May
• Saturday Unplugged Featuring:
Jamie Farrell. The Storytellers,
Stockton. Free.
• Bernaccia (Single Launch). Mining
Institute, Newcastle.
• Plugged Out Featuring Grant Smith.
The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free.
• Ellis Rayner. Head of Steam,
Norton. Free.
• The Buckets. The Voyager, South
Shields. Free.
23rd May
• Eastside Events Presents: Doom
Squad + Support. Head of Steam,
Newcastle. £7.00 Adv.
• Mortiis. The Cluny, Newcastle.
£14.00 Adv.
• So What. Red Lion, Norton. Free.
• SWMRS. Think Tank?, Newcastle.
£7.15 Adv.
24th May
• The Dandy Warhols + Happyness.
Northumbria University, Newcastle.
£18.70 Adv.
25th May
• DMF Songwriter Session Featuring:
Brotha Priah + Adam Pellew. Forum
Music Centre, Darlington. Free.
26th May
• Deadly Romantics. Trillians,
Newcastle. Free.
27th May
• Be Quiet Shout Loud + The
Lapelles. KU Bar, Stockton. £3.00 Adv.
• Reivers Rock and Blues Festival.
Clennell Hall, Northumberland.
• SSD & RFTK Promotions Presents:
Dorje. Independent, Sunderland.
£10.00 Adv/£20.00 VIP Adv.
• Urban Voodoo Machine. The Cluny,
Newcastle. £14.50 Adv.
• Insangel Presents: The Kar-pets
+ Ha’waysis + Tom Hingley Dj Set.
Loveshack, Durham. £8.00 Adv.
• Scratch the Surface. The Voyager,
South Shields. Free.
• Lonely the Brave. Riverside,
Newcastle. £10.00 Adv.
• Queens of Noise. Trillians,
Newcastle. Free.
28th May
• Mammal Hands. Independent,
Sunderland. £8.00 Adv.
• Steve Douglas. The Yellow Rose,
Middlesbrough. Free.
• The Picaroons + George Shovlin +
Radars. Hartlepool Supporters Club.
£6.00 OTD.
• Evolution Emerging. Across
Newcastle. £8.00 Adv.
• Maverick Sabre. The Georgian
Theatre, Stockton. £17.50 Adv
(S.T.B.F).
• Adam Green. Riverside, Newcastle.
£16.50 Adv.
• Balls of Steel. Railway Tavern,
Darlington. Free.
• The Mutts. The Voyager, South
Shields. Free.
• Steve Pledger. Middlesbrough Little
Theatre.
• The Blitz. Legacy, Sunderland. Free.
• Icicle Works. Think Tank, Newcastle.
£16.50 Adv.
• Plugged Out Featuring Dave Red.
Chaplins, Sunderland. Free.
29th May
• The Nightingales + Ted Chippington.
The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv.
• Bob Log III. The Georgian Theatre,
Stockton. £10 Adv (S.T.B.F)/£12.00
OTD.
• Marina Gears. Head of Steam,
Norton. Free.
• Queen of Noise. The Voyager, South
Shields. Free.
• Plugged Out Featuring Ramp. The
Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free.
• Steve Pledger. Cafe 32, Linskill
Centre, North Shields.
30th May
• Seafret. The Cluny, Newcastle. £9.00
Adv.
Add your June
gigs for FREE by
emailing our team at
[email protected]
Want to make your
gig stand out more?
Contact our team at
advertise@nevolume.
co.uk for more details.
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