Brum Notes Magazine - August issue

august 2010

free

www.brumnotes.com music and lifestyle for the west midlands

G N I H T Y R EVE G N I H T Y R E V E plus: GOODNIGHT LENIN

Daring to be different?

YEASAYER

and: Festival photo special August gig guide & ticket giveaways Free gourmet sandwiches for every reader!

Brum Notes Magazine: Issue 11, August 2010 Brum Notes Magazine The Moseley Exchange 149-153 Alcester Road Moseley Birmingham B13 8JP info@brumnotes.com To advertise contact: advertising@ brumnotes.com Editor: Sean O’Muir Contributors Words: Tom Pell, James Collins, Richard Franks, Ben Russell, Jimmy Lynch, Jeff Stuka, Lauren Massey, James Sharp, Saima Razzaq Pictures: Drw-Images, Wayne Fox, Mark Salmon Design: Ryan Killeen, Andy Aitken, Sleepy Design All content © Brum Notes Magazine. Views expressed are those of the author, not necessarily Brum Notes Magazine.

While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of content, Brum Notes Magazine will not be held liable for any errors or losses claimed to have been incurred by any errors. Advertising terms and conditions available on request.

Twitter @BrumNotesMag Facebook search ‘Brum Notes Magazine’ www.brumnotes.com

Lucy Rose opens for Bombay Bicycle Club’s performance at St Paul’s Church in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

For more pictures and review see p17.

Image courtesy of Wayne Fox

contents NEWS 4-5: Find out where to catch a drive-in movie and how to get into a gig (legally) if you’re underage.

COMPETITIONS 6: Your chance to get your hands on some of the hottest tickets in town for nothing.

FEATURES 7: Tunng We catch up with the alternative folk icons ahead of their weather-baiting outdoor show in Birmingham.

8-9: Yeasayer The New York indie hipsters are hitting Wolverhampton this month and they’re determined you’ll enjoy it.

10-11: Everything Everything Manchester-based oddballs share their quest for originality ahead of the launch of their hotly-awaited debut album.

12-13: Goodnight Lenin They’ve been the talk of many a Midlands music fan for months, but are these Northfield lads ready for the next step?

REVIEWS 14-18: Live It’s a festival photo special, with coverage of Off The Cuff, Mostly Jazz and the pick of the rest of last month’s shows.

20: Club Watch

In the first of our series hitting the region’s hottest dancefloors, relive the action at The Rainbow Summer Street Festival.

FOOD & DRINK 22: Screen bar heroes This month’s resident barman takes you on a tour of his favourite fictional colleagues.

22: Reader offer Bag some bargain gourmet sandwiches at The Victoria with our special voucher.

25: Recipe of the month Make a guilt-free dinner.

GIG GUIDE 28-31: Who said August was quiet? Your ultimate guide to the month ahead.

page four

news GEAR UP FOR DRIVE-IN MOVIES If you’ve ever dreamed of ‘comfort’ of your own vehicle. going on an American-style August 5 will see robot action hitting the big screen date, then you’ll get your in the shape of Transformers, with the late Patrick Swayze making the ladies swoon in Dirty Dancing the chance this month when following night, before the 1969 version of classic The a series of drive-in movies Italian Job finishes proceedings on takes place at Weston Park.

August 7. On film nights doors The Staffordshire beauty spot, which will be taken over by crowds watching the likes of Kings of Leon open at 7pm with screenings starting at 9pm. Free popcorn and free and Kasabian at the V Festival on August 21 and 22, will host three nights of outdoor film screenings drinks will be given out to cars on arrival and up to 200 cars are from August 5 to 7 as part of an RAC promotion. It’s a somewhat uninspiring permitted to park up each night.

DOING IT FOR Tickets will be sold on a first choice of films - chosen come first served basis and cost due their appeal to “all THE KIDS tastes” according to organ- £15 for RAC members and £30 A new weekly isers - but it’s all about the for non-members. Prices are per series of gigs has experience of enjoying a car. Visit www.rac.co.uk/movies been launched night at the flicks from the to book your tickets. in Birmingham to give under-18s the chance to enjoy live music and show off their own talents.

We Love All Ages, tember 11 from midday to 6pm, screen Birmingham will hold its own celebraa collaboration printing workshops, an Atta Girl Zine tion of DIY comics, books and magabetween promotParty at Island Bar on September 11 zines at a special three-day event across ing teams We and a picnic and zine swap at Cannon the city next month.

Love Brum and The first Birmingham Zine Festival will Hill Park on the Sunday afternoon.

Birmingham ProAn interactive postcard exhibition also run from September 10 to 12 at venues moters runs every including shops, bars, galleries and Can- runs throughout September at The Saturday at The Framers gallery in Digbeth’s Custard non Hill Park.

Rainbow in Digbeth Factory, while Urban Outfitters in CorIt is aimed at showcasing a range of from 4pm to 9pm. poration Street will also host a zine art self-produced publications from across Entry is £5. Organdisplay during the festival. the Midlands and around the country, isers are looking New details and events are being conas well as artwork connected with the for bands from as firmed as we speak, so check www.biralternative press. young as 12 to their Events will include a film night and 90s minghamzinefestival.com for full details late teens. Visit and information on exhibiting. zine Q & A on September 10, a zine www.birminghampromoters. fair featuring various exhibitors at The com for details.

Victoria in John Bright Street on Sep-

ZINE AND HEARD

news

CALORIES RETURN WITH SECOND ALBUM Birmingham’s own alternative cult heroes Calories will unveil their sophomore album next month.

Basic Nature will be released on September 13 on Tough Love Records.

It will feature their trademark ingredients of strong melodic hooks set against a backdrop of frenetic noise, which has seen them earn a loyal fanbase beyond the borders of their native Midlands.

Their 15-track second album will be available as a combined vinyl and CD set as well as a download and is available to pre-order now.

It follows last year’s infectious debut Adventuring, which earned

praise from music critics across the country.

The band, made up of John Biggs, Pete Dixon and Tom Whitfield, will mark the new album with a special show hosted by Chicks Dig Jerks at The Rainbow Garden on September 11.

New single FFWD will be released as a digital download only on August 30, accompanied by a video by acclaimed director Ollie Evans.

Visit www.basicnaturebasicnature.com or www.myspace.com/ caloriesband for details.

SOLITARY SCREENING FOR STONE FILM What do you know about the South American Socialist Explosion? Don’t give a chit about Chavez? Don’t know your Morales from your elbow? Can’t differentiate between US rhetoric and the other side to progressive politics in South America?

Politics from this part of the globe normally goes no further in popular culture than cheap t-shirts picturing Che Guevara and Lloyd-Webber of Toad Hall’s musical about an upwardly mobile tart with a heart. Well, not any more, it would seem. Oscarwinning director Oliver Stone’s new feature film South of the Border may

have rubbed a few people up the wrong way in his native USA, but it will get its only Birmingham screening this month.

The film will be at the Birmingham Library Theatre in Paradise Place for one night only on August 6, 7pm, showcasing Stone’s bold account of the changes sweeping across the Latin states’ political make-up from an alternative viewpoint.

Numbers are limited to just 250 people and reservations are filling up fast so visit www. birminghamboxoffice.com to book.

Tickets are £4.50.

Jeff Stuka

SLEEPY DESIGN FOR WEB & PRINT

print design web design logos branding advertising

+44(0)7871 889 178 info@sleepy.me.uk http://sleepy.me.uk

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upcoming

Who says nothing happens in August? Birmingham’s unofficial capital of music worth listening to, the Hare & Hounds in Kings Heath, is not letting up this month, from electronic legends (Silver Apples) to Indian folk (Raghu Dixit), electro rock (Digit Dealer) to Vintage Swing (King Pleasure & the Biscuit Boys). But we’ve picked out two of our favourites for the month and are even offering lucky readers the chance to get in free...

COMPETITION>

THE PHENOMENAL HANDCLAP BAND, August 4, Hare & Hounds, £6adv Less a band, more of an institution, The Phenomenal Handclap Band themselves don’t even seem sure how many members they have.

A collective of some of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s finest alternative musicians and some carefully selected friends, their retro funk, party soul and prog rock fusion may not have quite hit the nail on the head on record yet (too many cooks...?), but there is little doubt that they are a party band and a party it shall be on August 4. It’s even taken a collective effort to get them here with three of Brum’s finest promoters teaming up in the form of Leftfoot, This is Tomorrow and Birmingham Promoters, but the result should be a psychedelic live disco of epic proportions.

You’ll have to get in quick for this one. To win a pair of tickets , tell us which American city The Phenomenal Handclap Band originate from. Email answers to competitions@ brumnotes.com by August 2. Winner will be notified by email on August 3.

NOSAJ THING, August 26, Hare & Hounds, £5adv Remix mastery, finely crafted electronica and jaw-dropping visual arts are just three strings to Nosaj Thing’s bow, but awe-inspiring electronic live shows are another.

A rare UK appearance from the LA artist, aka Jason Chung, is sure to make for an unmissable night and one that proves Birmingham knows a thing or two about cutting edge.

COMPETITION>

To win a pair of tickets , tell us the name of Nosaj Thing’s full debut album, released in 2009. Email answers to competitions@brumnotes.com by August 23. Winner will be notified by email on August 24.

For full listings for the Hare & Hounds in August see p26 or visit www.hareandhoundskingsheath.co.uk

page seven

t w G isters N TUN TUNNG will play at the Arena stage at MAC, Birmingham, on August 13, presented by Capsule.

Tickets are £13/£10.

Twisted folk wonders Tunng make a welcome return to Birmingham this month for a unique show in the outdoor arena at the revamped Midland Arts Centre (MAC).

And they are a band that know a thing or two about reinvention themselves. Despite losing founding member and songwriter Sam Genders, the ever-evolving collective unveiled their fourth and arguably their strongest album so far earlier this year, inspired by journeys to far off lands. Saima Razzaq talks to surviving founder member and frontman Mike Lindsay about Tunng’s new found spirit of adventure.

You may think losing a co-founder and joint lead might leave a band a little lost and disjointed. But not so with Tunng, it would seem, as armed with a new sound they have risen to the challenge and produced one of their finest records to date in the shape of And Then We Saw Land.

Not that there were any rock and roll fallouts to send the seven-year musical project into meltdown.

“Sam leaving was all a rather amicable affair and we’re all still friends,” explains Mike, the remaining lynchpin of the band.

“He initially left to pursue other avenues in life and he’s now going to start making some new music for himself with different people, which will be nice if it happens,” he continues, speaking from a recording studio in east London where he is currently producing Hannah Peel’s latest album.

“Sam was a big part of the sound and the writing especially, he had a poetic genius about him and yes it did affect things but once we got over that and found out who we were a little bit more, we all pulled together and it was a really positive feeling. We’ve now come out the other side with a record that reflects us as people.”

It is an album which Mike describes as their “biggest challenge but also their greatest achievement to date.

“It took a long time to record this album, compared

to our previous albums where we’d stick one out every year. I went away travelling for a little while, wrote a few things whilst I was away and then came back and played around with the rest of the band.”

Surely, this alternative folk pioneer didn’t do anything quite as clichéd as head off to India on his travels? Well actually...

“It’s a bit hippy really but I went to India for a couple months in Karnataka.

“I didn’t come back and put tablas and sitars all over the album but I did write a song entirely out there; it’s a hidden track on the album that I wrote while living on a beach, in a pound-a-night shack. I got loads of samples and I did intend on using a lot of it, but I think that’s probably another record in itself.

“I think sometimes it’s good to clear your head and get out of the way and come back refreshed.”

Not that India was all work and play, as he eloquently explains. “Well, on new year’s eve I was dressed as a pirate, climbing a sheer cliff looking over the sea at 8am in the morning, realising once I was half way up, with a bottle of rum in my hand, it was probably a pretty bad idea.”

Words by Saima Razzaq.

Read more at www.brumnotes.com

CLAP YOUR HANDS SAY August may be a quiet month for gigs, but New Yorkers YEASAYER will be doing their best to make up for it when they bring their unique live sound to Wolverhampton. Ben Russell caught up with the band ahead of their August 25 show.

What’s the secret to a great gig? Drunk people freaking out according to guitarist Anand Wilder from experimental Brooklyn-based band YEASAYER. The band, who released their self-produced second album Odd Blood earlier this year, have been described as electric, pop, rock, folk, dub and even African and Middle Eastern.

However, the band say labels mean little to them as long as people who have come to watch them are having a great time.

“The term weirdo pop music I think is actually quite accurate,” says Anand.

“The best description is that we’re an energetic band both in what we sound like and what we do. Hopefully that comes across not only when we play live but also in our recordings.

“We’ve played loads of time in England and we love it, the shows are a little different from back in the US in that the crowds here are a little more subdued but that’s Words

Ben Russell

starting to change,” he continues.

Design sleepy.me.uk

“As we’re getting better known people are starting to enjoy the gigs a lot more.

Photo

“And that’s good for us, the more the crowd get into it and enjoy it the more we feed

Jason Nocito

“THE WORST FEELING IN THE WORLD IS PLAYING TO A BUNCH OF PEOPLE WHO ARE JUST STANDING THERE”

off them and enjoy it as well.

“Commercial is the wrong word for it,”

“The worst feeling in the world is playing

insists Anand, “but it is definitely cleaner

to a bunch of people who are just

and sharper and much less murky than

standing there - we much prefer to play

our first album. We’ve also added more

to people who are freaking out.”

pop-like lyrics.

The band, Chris Keating, Ira Wolf Tuton

“I wouldn’t say we were trying to appeal

and Anand, first came to attention after

to more people, it’s just what we were

appearing at SXSW in early 2007.

all feeling at the time and what we we’re

Since then they have played at

into when we were recording it.

Lollapalooza, the Pitchfork Music

“Myself and the guys are all really happy

Festival, Reading and Leeds and toured

with the way Odd Blood has turned out.

with MGMT and Beck.

“It’s the fun part now where we just need

Yeasayer play August 25

Their latest album Odd Blood, released

to play it to people, and hopefully get

at The Slade Rooms in

in February, marks somewhat of a

those people freaking out on us.”

Wolverhampton.

more pop influences than their earlier

New single Madder Red will be

Check for tickets at

work.

released August 30.

www.brumnotes.com/gigs

departure for the band in that it features

Everything In Its Right Place _ page ten

They were originally dismissed by radio stations as “too weird.� So how did Everything Everything end up making one of the most anticipated debuts of 2010? James Collins finds out.

“You only really get one chance and if you make a crap album then people will not let you forget about it.”

Jonathan Everything is a man on a mission. In the grand scheme of things, that mission is to create original, inspiring music with his band Everything Everything, music that makes people sit up and take notice whether they like it or not. But in more immediate terms, that mission is to buy a tent for their latest festival appearance. “I think I’m going to go for a two-man, which I can barely fit my leg in,” he says, reluctantly. Next year could be a different story though, it could be pop-up ones with different compartments, or better still...“Next year it will be an igloo,” he confidently declares. Such confidence is well-placed.

Everything Everything are preparing to release their hotly-anticipated first album, Man Alive, amid bold predictions that it could be the debut of the year. And it is certainly a bold debut, free from the formulaic 80s vibe of most indie upstarts these days, daring enough to be billed as different, yet with enough tunes to warrant that hallowed radio play.

It could have been a much different story for the band. They were initially dismissed as “too weird” by Radio 1, before later inadvertently catching the attention of Zane Lowe. The station soon changed its tune and Everything Everything ended up adorning the BBC’s list of bands being tipped for big things in the Sound of 2010 list. So, tent-buying aside, it’s been a “full-on” year for Jonathan and his Everything Everything bandmates. The speed of their progression from the well-trodden Manchester circuit to Geffen-signed, album-releasing hot tips has been nothing short of rapid.

“Basically from getting signed to recording and releasing the first single was pretty quick really,” explains the frontman. “We got signed at the end of last year and by February we were in the studio and then Schoolin’ was out by April or May. It’s been non-stop since we got signed, although there was a big long run-up to that point. “Our manager was saying to us we need to make sure we’ve got everything ready for when we get signed as then there would be no let up, so we were prepared and we didn’t have to rush anything.”

A confident approach in this day in age for a band to be preparing for what would happen on the confident assumption that they would soon be signed. “I’ve always thought that if I get the right people and the right things together then it should work,” Jonathan continues. “I couldn’t imagine things not working, which might make me sound like a bit of a d*ckhead, but I always assumed if it didn’t, I would just do something else.“You only really get one chance and if you make a crap album then people will not let you forget about it.”

But he is realistic enough to recognise that they have also had that crucial ingredient along the way – luck, and a good helping of it came courtesy of the aforementioned Mr Lowe, Radio 1’s antipodean trend setter-in-chief.

“We’ve had an amazing amount of luck along the way. “The biggest turn-up for the books was Zane Lowe. We sent [debut single] Suffragette Suffragette in to Radio 1 and it was rejected by his team saying it was too crazy and weird. “We made a video ourselves and got people to vote for it and it ended up on MTV, so

one morning Zane Lowe put MTV on and said [queue very dodgy Kiwi accent] ‘what the bloody hell is that mate?’ and he loved it.

“We’d given up on Radio 1 and thought what do we do now? And then that happened and it just went from there. All the regional radio followed and so on. When people like Zane Lowe show their support so many other people just jump on the bandwagon and say, ‘yeah, I really like it as well’, and then it was like ‘boom!’, it just happened.

“We are quite a weird band, we were considered not really a safe band for radio or for labels or anything but then everyone just came out of the woodwork and said we were really different - not that we are complaining of course.“Radio 1 DJs generally are very restricted by what they are allowed to play but when they get your wings freed a little they are into lots of out-there stuff.”

Speaking of weird, it’s impossible to speak to Jonathan without questioning him on the one fact that jumps out from their press pack – he didn’t have a television until he was 17. Possibly a sad statement on society that not owning a television seems weird, but come on, it is a bit isn’t it?

“People keep asking me about that, I don’t know why it’s such a big deal.“I saw the hallowed TV round my friends’ houses, so I didn’t really miss out but not having one, I think that was one of the most positive influences in my whole life.“I’ve got one now, but I’m still more into computers, I did have one of them.”

Indeed, the computer influence is present throughout Man Alive.

As well as the computer game sound effects and songs that could easily be on the soundtrack to Sonic the Hedgehog, there are other rather geeky references to the gaming world.

“There’s numerous references to Sega and Photoshop Handsome is talking about re-spawning which is a gaming term, which is pretty nerdy I admit. Maybe you shouldn’t put that bit in.“But at the end of the day, games will be bigger than all films and music eventually, people will end up playing games instead of doing anything else.”

Perhaps not the most sensible prediction for a professional musician to make. But then Jonathan Everything is not a musician prepared to settle for the norm, as Man Alive proves. Excellent as it may be, it is almost certain to divide opinion but one thing that is difficult to dispute is its originality, something which the band admit is their top priority.“It is important and so gratifying, to be described as different,” Jonathan adds.“That’s the biggest compliment you can give, someone is ‘different.’ Even if someone doesn’t like it, at least they recognise that it is different.”

MAN ALIVE IS RELEASED ON AUGUST 30 ON GEFFEN RECORDS. A FULL TOUR WILL FOLLOW IN THE AUTUMN. STAY TUNED TO WWW.BRUMNOTES.COM FOR TOUR DATES AND TICKET DETAILS.

Order of Lenin F

rom playing in kitchens to headlining the Lunar Stage at next month’s Moseley Folk Festival - not bad for a band who have not yet been gigging a whole year.

Local lads and nu-folk hopefuls GOODNIGHT LENIN have crammed a lot into the last 10 months or so with a number of high profile shows and an ever growing fanbase.

But is it all a case of too much to quick? Actually it isn’t quick enough, according to frontman John Fell, as Ben Russell found out.

“Since a video of us performing was put up online things have moved pretty fast, but only in a good way,” John says.

“We’ve all been in bands before and we’ve made our mistakes and learned our lessons there.

“This time we know exactly what we want and in a åon a subconscious level.

“None of it has been too forced and it’s just really come together for us.”

The band, made up mostly of old members of The Allies, came to people’s attention after a YouTube video of a simple acoustic performance in their kitchen was posted on the web.

Words Ben Russell

Since then they have supported a host of top folk and not-so-folk acts including First

Design sleepy.me.uk

Aid Kit, The Features and Darwin Deez.

Photos Richard

They have already been lined up for various festivals such as Shambala and Bestival,

Shakespeare

as well as Moseley Folk, and have just finished making their first single, video and EP.

“It has certainly been a hectic few months,” continues John.

“We recorded the EP in 48 hours in a studio in Digbeth, we had to cram everything in but it was all good and what we’ve heard so far we’re all really happy with.

“I think it will surprise people. It’s still folk and it still has that Goodnight Lenin-esque sound and feel to it but it will be a bit darker, something like a folk version of Arcade Fire.

“I think it will surprise people. It’s still folk but it will be a bit darker, something like a folk version of Arcade Fire.”

“Something that we’re conscious of as a band is trying to avoid labels. We don’t want to be compared to say Fleet Foxes or any one other band and I think this will do it for us.”

On August 6 debut Crook in the Creek will be released through local label Static Caravan, with a strictly limited edition 500 vinyl 7ins singles available.

“We’re all really excited about that day. It is the single and video launch as well as the day we reveal a new Myspace page. It’s going to be a day to say that we have officially arrived.”

Despite the rapid rise to prominence, they have not given up on playing in more unusual places. As we speak, the band are still recovering from playing in a treehouse of all places, hosted by the crown prince of bohemian Birmingham, Paul Murphy from The Destroyers.

But will they go back to playing in kitchens?

“We’re just going to continue to get on with what we do,” says John.

“Obviously we’re all incredibly flattered that nice things are being said and are happening for us, but we just see it as a positive.

“We’re still doing our kitchen tour, we’ll probably be doing it forever. It was really started as a way for us to meet our fans and talk to them I think it worked really well.

“Actually, if anyone wants us to play in their kitchen feel free to get in touch.”

Goodnight Lenin’s single launch party (hosted by the Lunar Society): The Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath, August 6. Support from Boat to Row, The Young Runaways and Jodi Ann Bickley. Limited edition single Crook in the Creek, featuring artwork by Clare Rojas, is released on Static Caravan on the same day.

page fourteen

live

OFF THE CUFF FESTIVAL The Flapper, Birmingham July 23-25 Sometimes anticipation is a bad thing; believing the hype is about the quickest route to disappointment. Like your mum used to say when you got overexcited: “It’ll end in tears.”

Thankfully, Off The Cuff 2010 didn’t listen to your mum. The lineup alone was enough to get Stephen Hawking jumping for joy – the event itself was more mindblowing still. Nothing could have prepared Birmingham’s Flapper for the sweat, the phlegm, or… the Irish.

The spectrum of alternative acts ranged from the sublimely talented Howard James Kenny to the overdriven batterings of the James Cleaver Quintet and Saturday’s headliners Pulled Apart by Horses.

The Computers drooled their way through a set of intense punk ‘n’ roll, like Iggy Pop torturing Cliff Richard, whilst Tangled Hair’s math-infused indie, a master class in technical ability, saw the audience agape at drummer Trood’s polyrhythmic jazz beats. Anyone not grinning at Men’s infectious feel-good punk interspersed with the weekend’s wittiest banter was either deaf or a zombie (or both).

The sell-out crowd was not let down by local acts, either. Well-received performances from the epic Talons, Soloman Grundy, Dead Lights, Conquistadors, Victories At Sea and a full-band version of Shoes & Socks Off were a fitting pulse beating through a festival designed to put Birmingham back on the alt rock map. Among the most hotly anticipated acts of the weekend, &U&I, playing their first gig since the split of previous incarnation Blakfish, lacked none of the gutsy brutality that made them a crowd favourite before.

But the real stars of the weekend were the Irish. Saturday saw a crowd destroyed by Bats, whilst Sunday saw the stage destroyed by Adebisi Shank. Heavy, technical and downright mental, both bands’ brief forays overseas were less of a visit than an invasion. For those that can take it, roll on next year.

Words by James Sharp

Pictures this page by Mark Salmon. Top: Chapel Club; middle: Victories at Sea; bottom: Dead Lights

Victories at Sea, the latest project led by familiar face and adopted Brummie scenester JP White kicked things off to an impressive gathering on Friday evening, with their structured, Joy Division-inspired take on gloom-rock, before Dead Lights imparted their own vision of layer-upon-layer of epic prog.

Somewhat strangely, nervous looking headliners Chapel Club seemed to draw the smallest crowd of the evening, but still engaged with their introspective, angst-fuelled doom pop, with the excellent O Maybe I a highlight.

Sweat was the order of the night for Saturday as the crowd was gradually whipped up into a frenzy which peaked at the crowd-surfing, in-your-face, relentless assault that was Pulled Apart by Horses. Sunday found everyone a little worse for wear but still up for

the final day. Maybeshewill mixed instrumentals and crescendo-building sound with samples DJ Shadow would envy, while Boat To Row provided a welcome break from the Off The Cuff standard with their own brand of feel-good folk. There was a lot of love for Tubelord and Tellison captivated despite testing out new material.

After a hardcore audience were immersed in the frenetic sound of Adebisi Shank, the evening was to end abruptly on a sad note amidst the excitement of returning heroes 35 Seconds as headliners.

An unfortunate way to end, with the band forced to cut short their set when a fan was taken ill and needing an ambulance. But despite the sour finish, it should not overshadow a victorious weekend for most. Words by Lauren Massey and James Collins.

Pictures this page by DRW-Images. Top: Pulled Apart by Horses; middle: &U&I; bottom: 35 Seconds

live

page sixteen

MOSTLY JAZZ FESTIVAL Moseley Park, Birmingham July 3-4 If the mere mention of the word ‘jazz’ has you running to the hills, relax.

Like its big brother, Moseley Folk Festival, (September 3-5), this year’s inaugural Mostly Jazz event took a broad view of the genre, embracing everything from Hammond organ driven soul and funk to spoken word.

It’s a sensible approach that pretty much guaranteed something for everyone, attracting a nice mix of people along for the ride.

Day One, compéred by BBC 6 Music’s Craig Charles, featured an afternoon of sun-drenched Hammond heaven in the shape of The Getup (who did a cheeky version of the Rainbow theme tune - Zippy and Bungle were seen downing pints of cider like there was no tomorrow) and The James Taylor Quartet who summoned up the spirit of Huggy Bear for their take on the Starsky and Hutch theme.

Local boy Will Holland, aka Quantic, blew our socks off with his awe-

Left: Courtney Pine; top right: Quantic; bottom right: The Sun Ra Arkestra.

All photos by Pete Ashton

some tropical supergroup Combo Bárbaro before The Sun Ra Arkestra, fronted by the 86-year-old Marshall Allen, blew our minds. Space really is the place kids.

Day Two was more of a jazzier affair with some particularly fine gypsy guitar work from The Bright Size Gypsies, paying tribute to the great Django Reinhardt. Courtney Pine delivered a masterclass in jazz showmanship as the headlining act but, for me, the day was all about the return of legendary UK funk band Cymande. In a blistering hour long set this rebooted version of the group raised the chilled out Sunday afternoon crowd from their picnic rugs in a mass funkathon, peaking with their classic single Brothers on the Slide. If there’d been a roof on the place they’d have blown it off.

Words by Daron Billings.

page nineteen

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB St Paul’s Church, Birmingham July 15 From the lack of a bar to the old dears handing out ‘hymn sheets’ and bottles of water, this was no ordinary gig. Not that it was expected to be. The beautiful surrounds of St Paul’s Church made for a tantalising prospect to watch Bombay Bicycle Club showcase their equally beautiful new acoustic direction and their ever-growing fanbase was swift to snap up the tickets. It’s not often you’ll see people hanging around looking for touts in a church graveyard.

Support act (and later BBC backing singer) Lucy Rose boasts a haunting voice that belies her doll-like appearance, but battled a few technical difficulties as she kicked things off for an audience still adjusting to their unusual environs. Melody, Melodica and Me followed, testing the acoustics out further with their fuller folk ensemble, before the main attraction took to the chancel (I think that’s what the bit at the front of a church is called, I had to look it up).

An almost stunned silence met most of the tracks from the first jaunty plucks of opener Rinse Me Down, through to the familiar but now more FIRST AID KIT Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath July 15 Despite promising to keep things light (bearing in mind the mellow line-up of the evening) Mr Bones and The Dreamers remained beautifully morose. The seven piece are clearly an original band making emotional music that sounds like it’s been influenced by the chants of Gregorian monks. On paper that shouldn’t work, but somehow they pulled it off. Goodnight Lenin provided some light relief with their Brummie banter and their charming music as well of course, their songs narrative masterpieces. Once the headliners, First Aid Kit, stepped on

Photos courtesy of Wayne Fox

eerie Dust on the Ground. In this hear-a-pin-drop atmosphere, there was a refreshing rawness from the crackling of leads to the cracks in frontman Jack Steadman’s fragile vocals. The band unashamedly wear their influences on their sleeves on acoustic album Flaws and do so again tonight, rolling out their cover of Joanna Newsom’s Swansea, which features on the record, as a set closer as well as a version of Louden Wainwright’s Motel Blues. But this was not about playing it safe, as the appearance of a strong-sounding new song, Fractures, demonstrates. Nor was it a morose affair, with oh-so-polite clap alongs and whoops greeting reworkings of favourites Evening/Morning and their bona fide anthem Always Like This. Words by Chris Moriarty.

stage, they managed to silence the chatter in the room with just a few notes – a pretty impressive feat. The sound of the two Swedish sisters is cinnamon, rays of sunshine and heartfelt longing personified.

First Aid Kit’s stripped back music and rich but dreamy vocals suited the subject matter of their songs down to a tee, especially the disappointed housewife. A beautiful version of Ghost Town without microphones was the most quietly powerful moment of the night. The whole audience was deadly silent and captivated as if under a spell, broken only by the following applause which was deafening in comparison. Just some advice: stick to the music (their attempts to beat Goodnight Lenin in the funny stakes bombed). Words by Lauren Massey

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live

THE CORAL Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham July 12 Allocated seating, intermissions for clapping and a bloke in a waistcoat selling ice-cream off a tea tray are not exactly expected sights at an event featuring The Coral. They were, however, indications for the night’s proceedings, which continued to be a little bit, well, odd.

New album Butterfly House has more than a little Humbug about it, and the smoky, hazy feel of the album is what has lead the scouse five piece to experiment with venues, namely the Alexandra Theatre. However, their hope to get the best out of lesser known songs that may get lost in Academy-style rooms exposed said songs to their bare bones, and with the new ones being first time listens for many, the effect somewhat washed over a placid, voyeuristic audience. Everything was a little forced, like the band had been kidnapped, wheeled out and exploited like the Monstars’ plans for Michael Jordan in Space Jam. A standing tour awaits later in the year, a good thing, as two bass notes of Dreaming Of You raised the biggest cheer all night, for a song that is still waiting to be bettered, eight years on. Oh, and James Skelly?

Nick Carter called, and he wants his 90s image back.

Words by Tom Pell

KELE O2 Academy 2, Birmingham July 14 Kele Okereke entered the stage around 10 minutes after the lights dimmed and his name shone up in lights on the back drop. Opening on Walk Tall, just about everyone in the sold-out crowd was bouncing for the man who defined so many teenagers’ indie playlists of the past decade.

Of course, it helped that Kele claimed Brummie was his favourite accent before tearing through tracks off his new LP such as On The Lam, The Other Side and new single Everything You Wanted – definitely a wise move to excite the audience. The Bloc Party

Pictures by Mark Salmon

frontman described the aforementioned as his “old band” during a career-spanning set, but did not prevent himself from reinventing the classics; Blue Light, The Prayer and One More Chance. The best reception of the night up until that point went to Tenderoni with fans inside the venue singing each word like it was their last.

However, a surprise inclusion and the paramount reaction was saved until the end, in the form of Bloc Party favourite Flux.

Words by Richard Franks

HOT MONOCLES The Flapper, Birmingham July 9 As the monstrous classic rock riffery of Hot Monocles kicks in, a fellow music critic challenges your correspondent to construct this review without using the terms; ‘epic’ or ‘stadium rock’.

Erm, nope, not much point. The descriptions may be obvious, but such is Hot Monocles sound – they don’t muck about with buried layers and obtuse arrangements, they just go straight for the vena cava of, yep; ‘epic

TORO Y MOI Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath July 12 Most talk ahead of this show was more concerned with support act 35 Seconds making a much anticipated return in a warm up for their Off The Cuff appearance, with an impressive crowd gathering on a Monday

stadium rock’.

Ok, ok, sure this is The Flapper and not Wembley but the sky’sthe-limit ambition is there and the band nail panoramic, universal rock as if this is a warm up for Isle of Wight Festival in 1970.

The packed venue is buzzing as the crowd is treated to Queencum-Muse barnstormers such as At My Door and 7 Sticks, the band impressing with technical verve and bold showmanship not usu-

ally seen delivered so naturally yet seemingly un-egotistically.

They may well be obvious, they may well stick to the tried and tested with their riffs, drum fills and solos but whether you’re hot about the Monocles or they leave you feeling stone cold, only a numpty would deny their potential for mass appeal.

Words by Andy Roberts

evening. “This is not a comeback,” declares frontman Andrew Hickman, before delivering the sort of punch-in-the-face set that makes you hope he’s lying. Most of the crowd hang around long enough to be transported into the sky-gazing, psych rock world of Toro Y Moi. A surprisingly accessible set of engaging melodies drowning in fuzzy electronica, let down slightly by Toro’s bandmates’ lack of energy. But that aside, Toro Y Moi deliver music from another planet and I want to live there. CM

page twenty

club watch SUMMER STREET FESTIVAL The Rainbow Complex, Digbeth July 3

The Rainbow Complex’s reputation as the Second City’s beacon of alternative nightlife continues to grow, with an ever-expanding array of arenas and rooms filled with music concepts you’d struggle to find anywhere else in Birmingham, especially on one bill. Cue the line-up for the Summer Street Festival - Erol Alkan, Fakeblood, Jakwob, Breakage, Riva Starr, Nick Curly, FACE, Bigger Than Barry, Gutterskank, Rock N Rolla, No Hassel; essentially five arenas boasting some of the biggest DJs and producers currently on the scene as well as the finest local brands and promoters. And with a BBQ, afterparties, and good weather all was set for a pretty good Saturday night.

The closed off stretch of Adderley Street filled with all types of

music-lovers, mingling and reminiscing about Ibiza or Glastonbury. The Garden at the far end of the complex hosted Gutterskank, with local DJs playing an array of garage, hip hop, indie and grime to a crowd largely made up of their mates. Walking through into the Warehouse, controlled by Bigger Than Barry, it was like bumping into Gutterskank’s bigger, older, harder brother. Gone were the party tunes, instead you had the serious warping and bassline antics of Knicker Bocker Corey and Shorterz. The Barry residents warmed up a solid crowd for the first two big names of the evening, Breakage and Jakwob, who settled in to dubstep and twisted remixes very comfortably indeed, soundtracking a right old shoot ‘em up from the sea of gun-fingers.

The Courtyard showcased Erol Alkan and Fakeblood, the Cellar boasted Riva Star, with both spaces, although not rammed out, enjoying an uplifting vibe with minimal-house and tech bending and popping through the corridor down towards the Pub, where resident brand No Hassel provided the real “party” room of the event.

There, 80s synth electro and Motown pumped out along to a team of topless DJs playing cowbells and tambourines.

The event as a whole was probably not as busy as expected, but this ensured a close atmosphere across a fantastic night, with Birmingham’s own brands holding their own alongside the bigger names on the bill.

Words by Jimmy Lynch Pictures by Jack Snape

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page twenty-two

food & drink Movies and television shows often set the scene in a drinking establishment. But what about the people pulling the liquid refreshments? They do more than just dive for cover when the bar is being shot up by the mob, so we think it’s time to celebrate the bartender. Carl Hawkins, manager of trendy gin joint The Jekyll & Hyde in Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, salutes the finest fictional bartenders.

Lloyd, The Shining Chillingly sinister, demonic but cordial, Lloyd panders to Jack’s irresistible desire to return to his former alcoholic ways by accepting Jack’s credit and offering free drinks - professional and creepy.

Razor Charlie, FROM Dusk TILL DAWN Pours the tequilas at The Titty Twister in this darkly comic action flick. It’s a vampire strip club for truckers offering drinks with bite.

Quark, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine The Trekkies favourite anti-hero bar owner. A Ferengi who is willing to do whatever it takes to acquire latinum normally at the expense of his customers.

Sam Malone, CHEERS Manning the bar at the ultimate local, where everybody knows your name. ‘Mayday’ Malone was more than just a ladies’ man, he is the bartenders’ bartender.

Douglas Coughlin, COCKTAIL Although his protégé, Brian Flanagan, singlehandedly created the whole customer expectation that to be entertained you had to throw bottles a la ‘Tom Cruise,’ no bartender has done more than Doug to advance the notion that barmen are all geniuses and much smarter than their patrons. Most notable for ‘Coughlin’s Laws’: “I don’t care how liberated this world becomes - a man will always be judged by the amount of alcohol he can consume - and a

woman will be impressed, whether she likes it or not.”

And finally…

Moe Szyslak, THE SIMPSONS Bartender and proprietor of Moe’s Tavern, Springfield. As Moe’s only employee he is the consummate professional and multi tasker, panda smuggling and Russian roulette games among his activities. Moe has a temper and occasional suicidal thoughts but also a soft heart. He also delivers the sort of eternal dry wit that a lot of bartenders would love to echo: “If you want to beat up your friend in my bar, there’s a two drink minimum.”

The wit and wisdom of The Jekyll & Hyde’s bar staff stretches even further than films and telly shows.

They also educate on life behind a bar in a more hands-on manner, offering a series of cocktail masterclasses. For more details or to book a class call 0121 2360345.

FREE SANDWICHES! Brum Notes Magazine has teamed up with THE VICTORIA in John Bright Street, Birmingham city centre, to offer you the chance to try some of their delicious grub at bargain prices! Just tear our the voucher on the left and present it at the bar for two-for-one on all gourmet sandwiches, or a gourmet sandwich with a drink for just £4. With tasty options including fish fingers and tartare sauce, gammon and pineapple salsa on ciabatta or Brie and tomato chutney on bloomer bread, you won’t be disappointed.

food & drink

page twenty-five

Recipe of the month: tuna salad

Try this quick and simple salad, full of fresh, vibrant and intense flavour for a summer time soul salad.

Easy on the wallet and good on the belly...

Recipe by Carl Finn, Soul Food Project head chef.

1. Finely dice 1 carrot, 1 medium size red onion, 3 sticks of celery and 1 red pepper and mix with salad leaves - rocket leaves work well, giving a peppery bite to stand up to the tuna.

2. Mix in a jar of tuna, a handful of sweet corn and half a tin of black eyed peas.

3. Toss together with 4 tbsp of good quality extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, a little fresh lemon and orange juice.

4. To finish, top with 1tsp of paprika.

Diary: September 16: Sake Tasting, Connolly’s Wine Merchants, 220 Livery Street, Birmingham Your chance to taste Japanese rice wine, while learning all about its history at the same time, hosted by experts from brewers Akashitai. No previous tasting experience necessary.

Tickets are £10 per person. Contact sarah@ connollyswine.co.uk or call 0121 236 9269 September 21: Soul Food Project Gastro Evening, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath High Street Great grub and great tunes from Coldrice DJs. Tickets £5.

Soul Food Project is a concept kitchen based in Kings Heath’s Hare and Hounds – the menu is inspired by Soul Food and diner food from America’s Deep South. For more information visit www.hareandhoundskingsheath.co.uk or search ‘Soul Food Project’ on facebook / twitter.

Recommended: Fed up of standing in a mile long queue for an hour just to get some machinemade doughnuts? Well, indulge your sweet tooth with some handcrafted, madeto-order, beautifully decorated cup cakes instead. It’s fair to say cupcakes have established themselves as the trendy treat of choice and there’s no shortage of cup cake makers springing up, but they don’t come much tastier than the Birmingham-based Frost and Snow Cupcake Bakery. This freshly launched venture, previously known as Frostings Cupcakery, offers flavours as diverse as lemon and Earl Grey tea, Oreo cookie, lime and coconut, orange and poppy seed and even beer and chocolate. And they are almost as beautiful to look at as they are to taste. Add to that the fact that the bakery was founded as a social enterprise through Midland Heart aimed at creating training and job opportunities and it’s completely guilt-free eating! For more information visit www.frostandsnow.co.uk.

page twenty-eight

gig guide THE REGION’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE MONTHLY GUIDE TO GIGS OF ALL SIZES

PICK OF THE MONTH:

Want your gig or club night listed in our monthly guide?

Send details to: info@brumnotes.com All details correct at time of going to press.

Check with venues before setting out.

For latest information and ticket details visit: www.brumnotes.com.

While every effort will be made to ensure the accuracy of listings, Brum Notes Magazine will not be held liable for any errors or losses incurred from errors which may materialise.

Be good kids.

GIGS 1. THE ARCADIAN KICKS, Aug 4, The Rainbow, Digbeth The Midlands rockers celebrate release of single 19 Days with a 16+ free party with free food!

Tickets free, www.facebook.com/thearcadiankicks.

2. GOODNIGHT LENIN, PLUS SUPPORT, Aug 6, Hare and Hounds, Kings Heath Another of the rising local stars unveil their single, Crook in the Creek, with fantastic support line-up.

Tickets £5 adv, www.moseleyfolk.co.uk.

3. TUNNG, Aug 13, MAC, Birmingham Fingers crossed for the weather as the alternative folk pioneers tackle the outdoor Arena stage.

Tickets £13/ £10 concessions, www.macarts.co.uk.

4. YEASAYER, Aug 25, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton Brooklyn-based experimental pop-rock outfit, renowned for energetic live shows. Expect sweat.

Tickets £12 advance, www.wolvescivic.co.uk.

5. EELS, Aug 26, O2 Academy, Birmingham Alt-indie mainstays return with a world tour to showcase latest batch of experimental pop.

Tickets £20 adv, www.brumnotes.com.

CLUB NIGHTS 1. LITTLE CHILL FESTIVAL August 7-8, Secret location Little price, big line-up. Kids go free by day, party goes hard at night. Tickets £5 day/£8w/end.

2. ZOMBIE PROM Saturdays, Rainbow Garden Freshly launched indie club night, promising classy tunes and lush green surrounds. Entry £5.

3. AUDIO VISUAL CARNIVAL August 29, Custard Factory DJs, beatbox battles and live art clashes from Break Thru and Secret Wars. £10 adv.

VENUE DIRECTORY

BOOKING AHEAD

BIRMINGHAM: O2 Academy, Horsefair, Bristol St B1, 0844 4772000; NIA, King Edwards Rd B1, 0121 7804141; LG Arena, NEC, Solihull B40, 0121 7804141; The Flapper, Kingston Row B1, 0121 2362421; The Victoria, John Bright St B1, 0121 6339439; Sound Bar, Corporation St B4, 0121 2362220; Hare & Hounds, High St, Kings Heath B14, 0121 4442081; The Actress & Bishop, Ludgate Hill B3, 0121 2367426; The Sunflower Lounge, Smallbrook Queensway B5, 0121 6327656; Symphony Hall, Broad St B1, 0121 7803333; Town Hall, Victoria Sq B3, 0121 7803333; Kitchen Garden Cafe, York Road, Kings Heath B14, 0121 4434725; Alexandra Theatre, Station St B1, 0844 8472302; Bulls Head, St Marys Row, Moseley B13, 0121 2567777; Island Bar, Suffolk St B1, 0121 6325296; The Jam House, St Pauls Sq B3, 0121 2003030; The Asylum, Hampton St, Hockley B19, 0121 2331109; The Rainbow, High St, Digbeth B12, 0121 7728174; Adam & Eve, Bradford St, Digbeth B12, 0121 6931500; Poppyred, The Arcadian, Hurst St B5, 0121 6871200; The Yardbird, Paradise Place B3, 0121 2122524; The Glee Club, The Arcadian, Hurst St B5, 0871 4720400; MAC, Cannon Hill Park B12, 0121 4463232; WOLVERHAMPTON: Civic Hall/Wulfrun Hall, North St WV1, 01902 552122; ; The Slade Rooms, Broad St WV1, 01902 552122; Alchemy Bar, North St WV1, 01902 711998; Robin 2, Mount Pleasant, Bilston WV14, 01902 401211; WEST BROMWICH: The Public, New St B70, 0121 5337161; COVENTRY: Kasbah, Primrose Hill St, CV1, 024 76554473; Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, CV4, 024 76524524.

MODIFIED TOY ORCHESTRA

Sep 8, Town Hall £12, www.thsh.co.uk.

SUPERSONIC FESTIVAL Oct 22-24, Custard Factory £75, www.seetickets.com

VAMPIRE WEEKEND Nov 26, Wolves Civic

£20, www.seetickets.com

INTERPOL Nov 26, O2 Academy

£22.50, www.brumnotes.com

SUNDAY, AUG 1 PETER MURPHY, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton THE ODESSA MASSACRE, The Flapper, Birmingham ODESSA, VIDINA, SONS OF BELIAL, NO GUTS NO GLORY, O2 Academy3, Birmingham QUILL, Robin 2, Bilston MONDAY, AUG 2 ME VS HERO, TEMPLETON PEK, KYOTO DRIVE, FROM THE GET GO, O2 Academy3, Birmingham TUESDAY, AUG 3 NOT ADVISED, O2 Academy3, Birmingham WEDNESDAY, AUG 4 THE PHENOMENAL HANDCLAP BAND, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath THE RAGHU DIXIT PROJECT, CHRIS TYE, JAYNE POWELL, FINDING CALCUTTA, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath XAVIER RUDD, O2 Academy2, Birmingham ARMY OF FRESHMEN, O2 Academy3, Birmingham THE ARCADIAN KICKS, (single

The Arcadian Kicks, August 4, The Rainbow, Digbeth

launch party, free entry), The Rainbow, Digbeth OUT OF SIGHT, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton THURSDAY, AUG 5 FAMILY FORCE 5, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton SILVER APPLES, PRAM, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath RACHEL HARRINGTON WITH ROD CLEMENTS, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath OCTANE OK, GO X, ACES HIGH, FANS OF FAYE, O2 Academy3, Birmingham VIOLET VIOLET, SHANA TOVA, DECADENCE IN BERLIN, SLIM FIT GYM KIT, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham

FRIDAY, AUG 6 GOODNIGHT LENIN, THE YOUNG RUNAWAYS, BOAT TO ROW, JODI ANN BICKLEY, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath BAD RELIGION, O2 Academy2, Birmingham MIVVI, LAST GASP, THE VINYL, BLEMISH, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham SHARP DARTS, FOUR QUARTER,

WOOD PARK, Island Bar, Birmingham THE SHARABANGS, FACADE, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton INFLUENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT (14+), Kasbah, Coventry SATURDAY, AUG 7 HOT MONOCLES, NEGATIVE BRODY, CHAPTER VIII, IMOGEN’S KISS,

Want your gig included in this guide?

Email details to info@brumnotes.com.

THE MONICAS, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham RAVEN VANDELLE, JAMIE CLAYTON & THE DEAL, The Flapper, Birmingham BROKEN WITT REBELS, GREEN-

Actress & Bishop, Birmingham IONS, JOYOUS, JAKE BULLIT, The Flapper, Birmingham THE KING BLUES, Kasbah, Coventry

SUNDAY, AUG 8 CHINA CRISIS, THIS FINAL FRAME, MR FOGG, O2 Academy3, Birmingham JUSTIN WILLIS, JUNKYARD MORNING, OXZIDE, Robin 2, Bilston

FATE WAS FOOLISH, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham DIGIT DEALER, THE TARGETS, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath LOST ON CAMPUS, THE LION AND THE WOLF, CHANGING PLACES, I’VE GOT

(REVIVAL), PALE HORSE PALE RIDER, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham LAURA JANSEN, The Glee Club, Birmingham THE SIN KINGS, SPEAKER SAYS, STRANGETIME, The

BATTLE FOR PRAGUE, The Flapper, Birmingham SOUND OF CONFUSION, The Victoria, Birmingham MEMBERS ONLY, SKELETONS, BARRY’S ATTIC, (all ages show)

Save money and buy your gig tickets in advance at

MONDAY, AUG 9 CHAOS ACOUSTIC CLUB, The Victoria, Birmingham WEDNESDAY, AUG 11 THE LISA MILLS BAND, Robin 2, Bilston THURSDAY, AUG 12 THE CEDAR HOUSE BAND, BLACK DOLLAR BILLS, O2 Academy3, Birmingham THE GRUBER, MISS HALLIWELL, AND

PRETTY DREAMS, Flapper, Birmingham The Rainbow, Digbeth ELIZA LITTLE, Island THE BLACK & REDS, KING PLEASURE & Bar, Birmingham Kasbah, Coventry THE BISCUIT BOYS, Hare & Hounds, Kings FRIDAY, AUG 13 SATURDAY, AUG 14 Heath TUNNG, HEALTH & SECOND FESTIELECTRIC SLIM, EFFICIENCY, MAC, VAL OF ELECKasbah, Coventry Cannon Hill Park, BirTROACOUSTIC/ mingham PSYCHE/DRONE/ SUNDAY, AUG 15 BUMBLECAT, DIRTY FOLK FEAT RAMLEH MICK THOMAS, FOX, REDJACK, AND MORE, Wagon MICHAEL BARCLAY, Actress & Bishop, Bir- And Horses, Digbeth Kitchen Garden Cafe, mingham PAN & THE POETS, Kings Heath WHERE, THE GRASUNRISE OVER RAMBLIN’ PONY, HAM PARSNIP EUROPE, SENCE, IN STRUMPIT, BERNALIQUIDISER TORFIELDS, Actress & DETTE O’GRADY, TURE THINK TANK Bishop, Birmingham Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath MONDAY, AUG 16 LITTLE FEAT, IAN PARKER, Robin 2, Bilston TUESDAY, AUG 17 MICH THOMAS, MICHAEL BARCLAY, Katie Fitzgeralds, Wollaston DEAD POETS, FOUR EYES, The Flapper Goodnight Lenin, August 6, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath

WEDNESDAY, AUG 18

ham KARMA SUITE, THE CEDAR HOUSE BAND, Island Bar, Birmingham SIGNIFY, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton Eels, August 26, O2 Academy, Birmingham

MAMA MATRIX, THE CROOKED FIDDLE BAND, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath THURSDAY, AUG 19 SHAY KAHALA, FALSE PRETENCE, WHATEVER TOMORROW BRINGS, THE HIGHLY CHARGED SUPER COCKS, O2 Academy3, Birmingham ROTUNDA, SAVE YOUR GRACE LEFT FOR RED, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham THE CHRISTIANS, The Jam House, Birmingham THE HARDCORE JOLLIES, The Victoria, Birmingham FRIDAY, AUG 20 V FESTIVAL 2010, Weston Park, Staffordshire CAPTAIN HORIZON, NO AMERICANA, HEATHEN ZOO, 2ND SIDE MADE, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham RFX, CARLO, BOLSHIE, The Sunflower

Lounge, Birmingham THE MUSGRAVES, POPE JOAN, THE BENWAHS, The Flapper, Birmingham SATURDAY, AUG 21 V FESTIVAL 2010, Weston Park, Staffordshire THE JACKDAWS, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham SECOND CITY SONS, THE DEEP SOUTH, SLIM FIT GYM KIT, SUNSET OVERDRIVE, (all ages) The Rainbow, Digbeth THE MIDNIGHT CLUB, MAYCOMB, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton SUNDAY, AUG 22 V FESTIVAL 2010, Weston Park, Staffordshire MONDAY, AUG 23 OUT LIKE A LION, SEIZE THE CHAIR, Kasbah, Coventry WEDNESDAY, AUG 25 UGLY DUCKLING,

FISTFUL OF DYNAMITE, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath YEASAYER, The Slade Rooms, Wolverhampton THURSDAY, AUG 26 EELS, O2 Academy, Birmingham I BLAME COCO, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath KINN, BEYOND DREAMS OF GRANDEUR, SHE CRIED SHOTGUN, NEVER FALL DOWN, ABERCION, O2 Academy3, Birmingham WRAPPED IN PLASTIC, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham FRIDAY, AUG 27 THE GLASS GODS, MERCHANTS OF MENACE, DOLLS EYE WEAVER, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham GOLDEN GLASS, DECORUM, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham CAITLIN ROSE, The Glee Club, Birming-

SATURDAY, AUG 28 PHILADELPHIA GRAND JURY, The Flapper, Birmingham MY SECRET LIFE, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham IAN MCNABB, Robin 2, Bilston SUNDAY, AUG 29 DRONGOS FOR EUROPE, GRAVEYARD JOHNNYS, BLACK BOMBERS, EL TORO, ROTUNDA, The Asylum, Hockley, Birmingham SURFACE UNSIGNED MIDLANDS REGIONAL SHOWCASE, O2 Academy, Birmingham HOTT DATE BANK HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA, Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath HIGH CONTRAST, CHASE & STATUS (TBC), Kasbah, Coventry TUESDAY, AUG 31 GUNDOGS, THE CULPRITS, CHE, JACCALS, O2 Academy3, Birmingham