MARCH PREVIEWS

Image: Andy Bell

ANDY BELL SPACE STATION @ POP RECS LTD.

Words: Michael O’Neill

Where do you start with a musician with as unique a track record as Andy Bell’s? Here’s a brief overview: in the early 90s he co-helmed Ride, one of the almighty titans of shoegaze, whose essential LPs Nowhere and Going Blank Again perfectly melded sugar-coated melodies and jaw-droppingly innovative sonics, and (much like contemporaries My Bloody Valentine and Lush) pushed the boundaries of possibility for guitar music. When Ride grounded to a halt, he then jumped ship to play bass in a Mancunian outfit you may be familiar with (clue: the one with the brothers).

With all this stadium-ready cacophony in mind, it’s safe to say that Andy Bell Space Station is an altogether different proposition. Inspired by a lockdown residency performing lo-fi solo sets (fittingly, at a coffee shop with the same name), Space Station finds Andy taking the backing tracks from his various musical worlds, deconstructing them and using the power of improvisation to take them to bold new frontiers. He likens the experience to being somewhat like a “DJ set with live guitar”, and in the phenomenal new iteration of Sunderland’s almighty Pop Recs Ltd., his gig on Thursday 3rd March going to be one hell of a unique experience.

Support on the night comes from fast-rising young indie rock artist Tom A Smith. Andy Bell Space Station and Tom A Smith play Pop Recs Ltd., Sunderland on Thursday 3rd March. www.andybell.bandcamp.com

Overflow by Tom Andrew

ALEXANDER WHITLEY: OVERFLOW @ DANCE CITY

Words: Jamie Lunnon

In a world in which human motions and behaviour are the most valuable raw material for the modern economy, what happens to our sense of identity and humanity? Digital creator Alexander Whitley addresses this question at Newcastle’s Dance City on Saturday 26th March in his audio-visual dance exhibition on the rapid development of data flows.

The profit-driven data-logging of our physical forms by big tech companies is transforming the flesh and pulse of our bodily movements into algorithms and data flows. Whitley looks to capture this transformation via sound, light, costume and dance.

Using facial recognition, Ana Rajcevic creates personalised skull-like masks for the dancers in a ‘creepy and cool’ representation of the digitalisation of human features. The blending of human and digital is also explored by the Children of the Light, whose kinetic light installation sways with the dancers “like another character added to the scene”.

Whilst dystopian, Whitley’s choreography is future-looking, not negationist or paranoid: “although there are negatives, there is still potential for good”. Whitley aims to keep the creative space open-ended, exploring the tension between what is lost and gained by digital development. Dance is an elusive, fluid medium suitably representing the cryptic undercurrents of big data collection and its unknown yet profound implications on our minds and bodies.

This exhibition is relevant post Covid-19 and looking forward to an empty, waiting ‘metaverse’ and Whitley promises to dramatize this space of uncertainty and opportunity with skill and originality.

Alexander Whitley: Overflow is at Dance City, Newcastle on Saturday 26th March. www.alexanderwhitley.com

The Chats by Matt Walter

THE CHATS @ BOILER SHOP

Words: Hope Lynes

The Chats bring their outrageously hilarious pub rock to Newcastle’s Boiler Shop on Saturday 25th March. The Aussie punks’ tunes are simple yet addictive, and to some degree incredibly hard to explain. Expect lyrics about getting the clap, going for pub grub and taking your ‘smoko’ break on the graft. The humour is working class, full of Australian slang and unapologetically fun, creating a listening experience which veers between creative genius and easy-going rock ‘n’ roll.

The trio, who notoriously “love beer”, formed in a bong shed, and describe themselves as pioneering the ‘shed rock’ genre. They don’t hold back with their unruly style, and they’re supported at the Newcastle show by fellow rebellious rockers Chubby And The Gang, who beautifully blend modern punk with preppy pop beats. Perth rock band Dennis Cometti also support, an Aussie trio whose style is punky and DIY.

This event has been rescheduled a couple of times, with many gig goers having held tickets since 2020 to watch the band tour their High Risk Behaviour album, which debuted in March 2020. Following recent sell-outs in other UK cities, act fast to experience a Saturday night of exciting and entertaining Aussie punk.

The Chats, Chubby And The Gang and Dennis Cometti play Boiler Shop, Newcastle on Saturday 25th March. www.thechatslovebeer.com

BOBBY MAIR @ THE FORUM NORTHALLERTON/THE WITHAM

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Did you know that the ancestors of cockroaches date from about 300-350 million years ago? No? Well, that’s not important right now anyway. What is important is the fact that London-based Canadian comedian Bobby Mair has a brand new show and it just so happens to be called Cockroach. You might know Mair from his appearances on Netflix’s Feel Good and as host of reality-horror show Killer Camp, as well as his numerous appearances on shows like Guessable, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip (where he battled to be most profitable against fellow comedian Jamali Maddix).

Mair visited The Witham in the summer of 2021 as part of a work-in-progress day and he’s now returning to the North East with shows at The Forum in Northallerton on Friday 11th and at The Witham on Saturday 12th March, courtesy of promoters Funny Way To Be. Cockroach is described as “dark, gut-wrenching stand-up” and promises to continue to show off how Mair is unafraid to delve into the risqué; in the past he has frequently performed sets that definitely aren’t for the faint-hearted. Yet he manages to pull it off as a lovable rogue, pulling the audience in with his wit and charm. So, will Cockroach actually contain jokes about cockroaches? You’d have to go to find out. But it will contain laughs. A lot of them.

Bobby Mair is at The Forum, Northallerton on Friday 11th and The Witham, Barnard Castle on Saturday 12th March. www.bobbymair.net

Image by Will Gorman

CLUB PARADISE @ INDEPENDENT

Words: Jake Anderson

Ask anyone in Tyne & Wear who the most exciting artists currently are, and (aside from the ubiquitous Sam Fender) not far from the top will be North Shields’ Club Paradise. Also close to the top of my uncited, imaginary list will be Sunderland’s Plastic Glass and Newcastle’s The Timewasters...so imagine the sheer thrill of seeing all three artists on one line-up, at Sunderland’s Independent on Friday 25th March!

Club Paradise are known for their infectious indie rock bangers, which flex a clear influence from glam rock on tracks like the boisterous Teenagers and their newest single Friends Online. The band played at Independent during their Waves Festival last November, and they clearly made quite an impression. Plastic Glass are an Independent staple; their indie rock brings in an almost punk influence, with brash tracks such as Come Clean and the anthemic Let Me Know – songs that you and the rest of the crowd will be shouting along to.

The Timewasters, meanwhile, feature grunge-inspired guitar riffs, with an emphasis on storytelling lyrics, such as the politicallyfuelled Dear My Government and the sombre California, which come complete with alternative rock soundscapes.

Club Paradise, Plastic Glass and The Timewasters play Independent, Sunderland on Friday 25th March. www.thisisclubparadise.com

Florence Odumosu by Peter Dibdin

BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY VOICE @ CUSTOMS HOUSE

Words: Helen Redfern

Most of us will know of Nina Simone as the remarkable American jazz singer who brought us I Put A Spell On You, Feeling Good and numerous other hits. She was a superstar diva of her time. Written and directed by Apphia Campbell, Black Is The Color Of My Voice, is inspired by the life of Nina Simone, and the production returns to the region on Thursday 10th March at The Customs House in South Shields.

Having written Black Is The Color Of My Voice in 2013, Apphia Campbell is now touring her critically acclaimed play, direct from rave reviews and sell-out performances in Shanghai, New York, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the West End.

The production takes place in a hotel room. Nina Simone, played by Florence Odumosu, is alone, contemplating her life following the untimely death of her father. She’s seeking redemption as she reflects on her journey from her childhood as a young piano prodigy destined for a life in the service of the church through to becoming a renowned jazz vocalist at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement. Featuring many of her most iconic songs are performed live, the show explores all the love, joy, tragedy and racism Nina experiences along the way. She’s a survivor, she’s had to be: determined, courageous, vulnerable, ultimately human.

Black Is The Color Of My Voice is at Customs House, South Shields on Thursday 10th March. www.customshouse.co.uk

w i t h s p e c i a l g u e s t s

BC Camplight by Elyssa Iona

BC CAMPLIGHT @ THE CLUNY

Words: Mera Royle

Looking after our mental health is so important in turbulent times, which we’ve all experienced our fair share of over the last couple years. Someone who knows all too well about life’s hardships is talented Philadelphia-born, Manchester-based, musician BC Camplight, who uses his music to express his tribulations; and he’s certainly not a guy who’s had it easy. His life has been shaped by experiences of loss and personal struggles, and he was even deported from the UK in 2015, estranged from his home, girlfriend and dog. But he possesses the extraordinary ability to turn these difficult times and dark emotions into stunningly beautiful, riveting and somewhat comical musical works.

His show at The Cluny on Wednesday 23rd March is set to support his 2020 album, Shortly After Takeoff, which he wrote in response to his experience of deportation and the loss of his dad shortly after. The album demonstrates eclectic inspirations and is defined by disorienting rhythms, hushed vocals and beautiful harmonies, which share with the listener this deep, dark time in his life. As BC Camplight himself says: “It’s important to stress that this isn’t a redemption story. I’m a guy who maybe lives a little hard and I’m in the thick of some heavy stuff. But as a result, I think I’ve made my best record.” Joining him at The Cluny will be drummer Adam Dawson and guitarist Francesca Pidgeon (who some might know in her art rock guise as Dilettante) and who also feature on the album.

BC Camplight performs at The Cluny, Newcastle on Wednesday 23rd March. www.bccamplight.co.uk

PAUL CURRIE @ THE STAND

Words: Helen Redfern

Mental health is not talked about enough and not talked about properly. In the world, in society, and certainly not in comedy. That’s the baseline for comedian Paul Currie who has suffered from mental health issues from the age of five.

The sister show to his 2021 Edinburgh Fringe sell out show, Paul Currie’s latest work in progress, The Chorus Of Ghosts Living In My Skull Keep Telling Me To Take A Shit In The Fruit Salad, heads to Newcastle’s Stand on Thursday 3rd March and dives right into depression, anxiety and intrusive thoughts – and the inner musical workings of the average ironing board. It’s far from mainstream, definitely absurdist. It’s Paul Currie’s way of confronting the issues he has faced throughout his life through the medium of clowning and comedy.

He’s open about his struggles and the many nervous breakdowns he has gone through, because he desperately wants to smash the stigma around mental health (or at least crack it!) in this totally random one person comedy show. Don’t worry, there’ll be plenty of laughs. Mental health is a serious subject, yes, but not in the hands of Mr Paul Currie, whose stand-up show contains just the right blend of the ridiculous, the inspiring and the hilarious. He may well move you to tears.

Paul Currie is at The Stand, Newcastle on Thursday 3rd March. www.mrpaulcurrie.com

ENG-ER-LAND @ BASE CAMP/LAUREL’S

Words: Robert Nichols

What promises to be an exhilarating and extremely current new play exploring the connection between football and national identity visits the region this month. Written and performed by Hannah Kumari, ENG-ER-LAND blends storytelling, dance and music with 90s nostalgia and tackles head on themes of racism, identity politics, lad culture and working-class masculinity, with productions at Middlesbrough’s Base Camp (Friday 4th-Saturday 5th) and Laurel’s Whitley Bay (Saturday 5th-Sunday 6th March).

Hannah’s very personal story follows her own experience of racism as a football fan and her struggles to be accepted into a historically white, male, working class world. Hannah says: “I wrote ENG-ER-LAND in June 2020 in the wake of the BLM protests and seeing supposed football fans acting in a very aggressive and anti-social way. It made me sad and angry that we are still in this position, and I felt compelled to reflect on my own experiences at football matches as a mixed raced teenager growing up in the 90s, and now as a woman. The play is also an exploration of my mixed-race identity, and the idea of Englishness – what does it mean to be English and who gets to define that? I wanted to write a play that was fun and uplifting, whilst also confronting big issues.”

ENG-ER-LAND is performed at Base Camp, Middlesbrough on Friday 4th-Saturday 5th and Laurel’s Whitley Bay on Saturday 5th-Sunday 6th March. www.wolab.co.uk/eng-er-land

SPEAKEASY @ DANCE CITY

Words: Eugenie Johnson

In the classic German tale, Faust makes a pact with the devil after becoming dissatisfied with his life, trading in his soul for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. The legend has been the basis for numerous works of art and performance, undergoing countless reinterpretations since it first appeared half a millennium ago. Southpaw Dance Company have also taken on the task of re-framing the classic, transporting the story to the Roaring Twenties.

In Speakeasy, which comes to Dance City in Newcastle on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th March, they invite the audience into what initially seems like a normal prohibition-era bar. Except this bar just happens to be owned by the devil and Mephistopheles recast as a charming barman. The old and new are consistently juxtaposed throughout, with big band favourites like Count Basie sitting alongside Clint Mansell on the soundtrack, while some of the UK’s best Bboys combine their breakdancing flair with segments of the Charleston and the Lindyhop. Acclaimed digital creator Frieder Weiss and Matthias Härtlig also help bring the show to life, using stereoscopic cameras and interactive programming language to create the illusion of performers appearing as shadowy demons or allow them to dance through fiery rain. If you think you’ve seen every version of Faust, Southpaw’s spectacle might just change your mind.

Southpaw Dance Company present Speakeasy at Dance City, Newcastle on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th March, and later returning to the region at The Fire Station, Sunderland on Friday 8th April. www.southpawdancecompany.co.uk

Villagers by Rich Gilligan

VILLAGERS @ WYLAM BREWERY

Words: Maria Winter

Conor O’Brien and his band of Villagers prepare to present their thought-provoking arrangements at Wylam Brewery in Newcastle on Sunday 6th March.

Having released their fifth album Fever Dreams in 2021 to much acclaim, Conor explains he saw the album’s production as a way of bringing the real and surreal together. The value and necessity of human connection is at the heart of the album, and is explored through dream-like melodies and expressive lyricism to create an aura of tranquillity.

Fever Dreams reached the Top 20 in the UK Charts, garnering praise from across the board, with The Sunday Times Culture describing the album as “A thing of beauty”, which goes some way to representing both the album’s intention and execution. Villagers are known for their atmospheric creation of serenity and mystery, and Fever Dreams successfully encapsulates just that, with added elements of virtuosity and surprise.

Villagers play Wylam Brewery, Newcastle on Sunday 6th March. www.wearevillagers.com

FATHERSON @ NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY

Words: James F Hattersley

Many of us can say we spent the last two years indoors, in fear and in sweatpants. Thankfully, Glaswegian alt. rock three-piece Fatherson have spent their time wisely and crafted a brand spanking new album entitled Normal Fears, which is now ready to be unleashed onto the unsuspecting public. Fatherson are due to appear at Northumbria University on Friday 18th March for what is sure to be a cathartic and cleansing evening of alt. rock that is as powerful as it is tender.

Fans of Biffy Clyro and fellow Glasgow brethren Twin Atlantic will find some of the best elements of each in Fatherson’s music. However, it would cheapen the band’s efforts to just lump them in with other Scottish alt. rock heroes – truthfully I can see a world with them playing on the same bill as local boy Sam Fender and they wouldn’t be out of place in the slightest.

Fatherson haven’t graced the North East since 2019, but the region still echoes with their honest authenticity; each of their songs grow into anthemic thunderstorms that drench the listener and shroud them in charm and uplift. There won’t be a soul in Newcastle that isn’t revitalised by Fatherson’s warming glow and certainly not a dry eye in the house.

Fatherson play Northumbria University Students’ Union on Friday 18th March. www.fathersonband.com

The Lounge Society by Piran Aston

THE LOUNGE SOCIETY @ TEESSIDE UNIVERSITY/ INDEPENDENT

Words: Evie Nicholson

It’s rare for a band barely out of school and with only one EP to cause this much of a stir. Yet somehow The Lounge Society have managed just that. The gritty post-punk of the Yorkshire-born and bred band has already earned them a steady cult following, and they are set to increase it further with shows at Teesside University (as part of NXTGN alldayer) on Saturday 26th and Sunderland’s Independent on Thursday 31st March.

Combining wry and astute social commentary with electrifying dance beats, The Lounge Society inject a refreshing energy into the post-punk tradition, teleporting it into the twenty-first century. Citing influences ranging from the Tom-Tom Club and The Fall to Fat White Family, the band are the latest to emerge from the so-called West Yorkshire ‘Calder Sound’, responsible for cultivating home-grown zeitgeist bands like The Orielles, Working Men’s Club and W. H. Lung.

Signed to Dan Carey’s revered Speedy Wunderground Label when they were still in school, the band have gone from strength to strength and headlined their first tour last year. With punching basslines and rolling drums this intoxicating, it’s not difficult to see why. Socially conscious and unapologetically indignant, The Lounge Society offer both a cathartic release for today’s anarchic world and proffer a youthful catalyst for change. Even better, they manage to do all this whilst still being incredibly good fun.

The Lounge Society play Teesside University on Saturday 26th and Independent, Sunderland on Thursday 31st March. www.facebook.com/theloungesociety

Emma-Jean Thackray by Joe Magowan

EMMA-JEAN THACKRAY @ SAGE GATESHEAD

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Across the course of last year’s debut album Yellow, composer, producer, multiinstrumentalist and bandleader Emma-Jean Thackray created a unique blend of spiritual jazz tones and pulsating brass band. It helped to catapult Thackray from being an active member of London’s jazz scene to breaking into the mainstream, led by the controlled chaos of single Say Something. Her ability to appeal to both aficionados and those new to the genre helped her secure Jazz FM’s Jazz Act of the Year as well as being lauded by Gilles Peterson.

Now Thackray and her band are bringing Yellow’s vibrant and textured arrangements across the country, heading to Sage Gateshead on Friday 4th March. As Thackray herself notes, when she plays with her band her music takes on a new lease of life, morphing through improvisational phases into recognisable motifs. A taste of this can be found on her latest EP, Yellower Vol. 1, which shows off their ability to flow with a vibe and keeping things fluid, whether that’s on the luscious, sprawling Golden Green or the extended keyboard passages of Our People. It makes predicting what exactly to expect from Thackray’s show at Sage Gateshead difficult, but you can bank on her bringing the whole breadth of her talent.

Emma-Jean Thackray performs at Sage Gateshead on Friday 4th March. www.emmajeanthackray.com

REGINALD D HUNTER @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Helen Redfern

Comedian Reginald D Hunter is done with niceties. He’s convinced there’s no time any more for skirting around the big issues of today. He’s renowned for being searingly honest and brutally funny, but now he’s shifting it up a gear to a whole new level with his brand new show Bombe Shuffleur, which he brings to Stockton’s ARC on Friday 11th, Gala Theatre in Durham on Saturday 26th and Newcastle’s Stand on Sunday 27th March.

Climate change. Mass unemployment. Economic pandemics. The rise of global fascism. Welcome to the world of the Bombe Shuffleur. Georgia-born Reginald D Hunter moved to the UK from the US over twenty years ago and in that time has carved out a unique place to commentate on the unfolding meltdown of life as we know it. He’s cool and perceptive, unafraid to tackle the most controversial subjects head on in a meticulously thought out fashion. He’s one of the comedy industry’s best-known performers with numerous onstage, TV and radio appearances appealing to a cross-generational fan base.

Three-time Perrier Award nominated, this consummate comedian will draw you in with his unadulterated humour to explore some pretty dangerous and dark places. It won’t be comfortable, it will be challenging; but most of all, it will somehow be very, very funny.

Reginald D Hunter is at ARC, Stockton on Friday 11th, Gala Theatre in Durham on Saturday 26th and The Stand, Newcastle on Sunday 27th March. www.reginalddhunter.com

SPECKY CULT RELEASE NEW ALBUM, JUMPING ON THE BANDWAGON

Words: James F Hattersley

When you get the press kit for a band who describe themselves as fictional, alarms bells begin to ring. And yet, when you push through the mythos; what lies beneath is a quality set of acoustic punk songs that are not only catchy, but are building blocks for a much greater piece of artistic expression.

Jumping On The BandWagon is the latest output from North East three-piece Specky Cult, who are a band from a musical entitled Specky Cult, written by a band called Specky Cult. If you’re still with me, the album is the collection of songs that are used throughout the musical and tells the story of four bandmates who travel to London for their big break, only for adventure and shenanigans to ensue. The songs are surprisingly full and create a rich tapestry twang, while copious lyrics are churned out; almost each couplet being as memorable as the last.

It is a testament to the material that it can be packaged up into a streamlined form, given greater exposure and easier accessed by people looking for Specky Cult’s music. Real or not, this is one to look out for.

Specky Cult release Jumping On The BandWagon on 25th March. www.instagram.com/specky_cult_music

YIN YIN

YIN YIN/PADDY STEER @ COBALT STUDIOS

Words: Michael O’Neill

Almighty promoters Wandering Oak are back at it again with another brilliantly unique line-up at Cobalt Studios on Sunday 13th March.

Providing sonic mastery are YIN YIN, hailing from Maastricht, Netherlands, who have a track record of brilliant releases on Bongo Joe Records. The eclectic quartet grew from an experimental jam session into something of an accidental band (member Yves Lennertz states they simply “[wanted] to just release a tape cassette for our friends”). 150 shows later, the band have settled on a unique concoction of disco, funk, psych and traditional Southeast Asian music. Upcoming release The Age Of Aquarius is an eclectic serving of groove and left-field delight that builds on the dusty wonders of 2019’s The Rabbit That Hunts Tigers.

Support comes from the Mancunian Moondog and master of analogue electronics Paddy Steer, whose wholly unique approach to live performance has to be seen to be believed; he’s a one-man band of psychedelic, eclectic wonder who is no stranger to the Ouseburn. It’s another killer line-up from Wandering Oak, who never fail to deliver gigs that are as unique as they are enthralling. Fantastic stuff as always.

YIN YIN and Paddy Steer play Cobalt Studios, Newcastle on Sunday 13th March. www.yinyin.bandcamp.com

Y’MAM @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Lizzie Lovejoy

Critically acclaimed one-man show Y’MAM (Young Man’s Angry Movements) is coming to Northern Stage on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th March. Majid Mehdizadeh (aka actor Luke Jerdy) takes to the stage performing in an autobiographical show outlining his journey to ‘manhood’.

Breaking down his struggles, anxieties, anger and actions, Y’MAM tackles the difficult subject of what it means to be a man and where a person can stand in an unspoken hierarchy of masculinity. In the context of a contemporary society, Majid traces where all of these feelings and responses began in a deeply honest origin story.

Using a combination of spoken word and music, Y’MAM is ultimately a performance about love and appreciation. He invites the audience to be part of his analysis of toxic masculinity and its impact on everyone, as well as using his own story to show the potential to learn and grow.

This show aims to educate and inspire as well as entertain, particularly young men. Majid Mehdizadeh says: “I want to introduce a new kind of manhood, a masculinity that provides the foundations for how men should be and what that might look like. Learning to harness and control anger is a vitally important step on that journey.”

Y’MAM is at Northern Stage, Newcastle on Friday 25th-Saturday 26th March. www.northernstage.co.uk

ORLANDO WEEKS @ THE FIRE STATION

Words: Laura Doyle

Since the culmination of indie rockers The Maccabees, ex-frontman Orlando Weeks has proven that slowing down isn’t the only option for a post-ensemble career. The musician has found his feet in his fledgling solo work by simply doing the projects that feel right – whether it be via the original novel/album combo of The Gritterman, or a record that captures the vibes of the time of writing. His latest album, Hop Up, is fresh off the press and ready to boost moods. Such blue sky music seems so alien nowadays, as if every artist has been a bit down in the dumps in recent years – it’s anyone’s guess why that is.

Orlando Weeks seeks to remedy this with music fit for a CBeebies show about love and friendship. Hey You Hop Up gives this album its name and sets the overall tone, with bubbly bluesy vocals and playful melodies, which will be resplendent in the lovely acoustics of Sunderland’s Fire Station when he performs at the venue on Sunday 13th March. Support comes from multi-disciplinary artist Joviale. Soothing synths mixed with a jazz twang perfectly complement Joviale’s dreamy vocals, to create atmospheric soundscapes which promise an otherworldly experience. Leave your anxieties at the door, and embrace the change of the seasons with these feel-good sounds.

Orlando Weeks and Joviale play The Fire Station, Sunderland on Sunday 13th March. www.orlandoweeks.co.uk

David de la Haye

LISTENING TO SUNDERLAND UNDERWATER @ ROKER PODS

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Ever wondered what it really sounds like underwater? Unfortunately, even if we tried, we’re only likely to hear muffled noise; our ears aren’t suited for being able to hear what lies beneath the surface. Yet, through using a hydrophone, field recording artist David de la Haye is allowing the chance for curious minds to know what it really sounds like below the rolling waves (and you won’t even have to get wet).

As part of World Water Day on Tuesday 22nd March, de la Haye is transforming the Roker Pods on Sunderland’s sea front into a sound installation offering an auditory exploration of the aquatic world. While being surrounded by the North Sea, the installation showcases unheard recordings from surrounding docklands, rock pools and freshwater zones. Presented alongside the recordings will be sound responses from local improvising musicians Adam Stapleford, Graeme Wilson and Mark Carroll as well as an accompanying film to help give an environmental context to de la Haye’s work. Rounding off the event is a panel discussion with Sunderland University and the UK & Ireland Soundscape Community, allowing people to get even greater insight into the work from leading figures in the fields of sound and ecology. If you’ve ever wondered what sounds really lie beneath, don’t let this opportunity wash over you.

www.daviddelahaye.co.uk/world-waterday-2022

RED ELLEN @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Laura Doyle

History repeats itself. Even me saying that history repeats itself is probably history repeating itself. But the point of reiterating this over and over is to remind everyone that we can never stop learning from the mistakes of the past. And what better way to make a teachable moment than through the creativity of theatre?

From Friday 25th March until Saturday 9th April, Newcastle’s Northern Stage plays host to the premiere run of Red Ellen, Caroline Bird’s biography of Labour MP Ellen Wilkinson and her lifelong passion for social change. From her activist work campaigning to raise awareness of fascism in the run up to World War Two, to her time as Minister of Education where she successfully advocated for raising the minimum school leaving age and achieved free school meals, ‘Red Ellen’’ cemented her reputation as a pioneer of civil rights and social progress. She’s certainly most famous for her support and involvement in the Jarrow March, a protest by the residents of her constituency against the poverty and unemployment suffered in the region since the closure of its main industry, a shipyard. The 200-strong crusaders marched the almost 300 miles to London to challenge the government on their failings, and the event has since become iconic in the North East as a symbol of perseverance and justice in the face of institutional failings. Nearly a century on from when she was first voted into Parliament, Ellen Wilkinson’s story has found new resonance in today’s society, and its retelling is as important now as it ever will be.

Red Ellen is at Northern Stage, Newcastle from Friday 25th March until Saturday 9th April. www.northernstage.co.uk

This is the Kit by Ph. Lebruman

THIS IS THE KIT @ THE FIRE STATION

Words: Laura Doyle

Have This Is The Kit reached cult status yet? It’s possible. Kate Stables began this project way back in 2003, and has since managed to garner a great deal of critical acclaim while maintaining a degree of underground status, making every track feel like an undiscovered gem.

It’s easy to see why they’ve drawn such praise from the likes of Elbow’s Guy Garvey and his 6Music colleagues, because a brief listen to their most recent record, Off Off On, leaves the listener curious to hear more.

Stables’ lighter-than-air vocals backed by gentle folk rock tones make for very easy listening. Delve a little deeper though, and you’re struck by a level of musical complexity and lyrical sophistication that demands inspection. Coming To Get You Nowhere combines musical and visual storytelling with an off-the-cuff MV documenting friends unsticking their friends’ car, just as the song promises to unstick a melancholy mind. Banjo-led This Is What You Did carefully interweaves traditional folk elements with rock construction for a Manics-like take on morality. It’s still not too late to get a headstart on your mates for this talented bunch, as they can finally tour their 2020 release – dropping in to Sunderland’s Fire Station on Thursday 10th March – and unleash their artistry on a still unsuspecting public.

This Is The Kit play The Fire Station, Sunderland on Thursday 10th March. www.thisisthekit.co.uk

THE AUCKLAND PROJECT REOPENS

Words: Claire Dupree

The Georgian splendour of Auckland Castle reopens to history, heritage and culture-lovers from Wednesday 23rd March, presenting a wealth of surprising opportunities to interact with the region’s unique history.

Auckland Castle is the seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham, who governed vast swathes of North East England. One of the best-preserved Bishop’s palaces in Europe, the castle lies at the centre of the The Auckland Project, the regeneration charity who have lovingly restored the castle and its surroundings. Also part of the complex is The Spanish Art Gallery, the UK’s first gallery dedicated to the art, history and culture of Spain, and home to Francisco de Zurbarán’s series of Spanish masterpieces Jacob And His Twelve Sons, for over 250 years. The paintings mark the centrepiece of the gallery, which provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the largest collection of 16th and 17th Century Spanish artworks outside of London, including work by El Greco, Murillo and Velazquez. There’s more art on display at the Mining Art Gallery, which depicts life in the coal mines and the inspiring communities which grew around them; highlights of the collection include work by Norman Cornish and Tom McGuinness.

Visitors can get out and about in the grounds too, with a deer park containing 150 acres of historic parkland, a walled garden and the Auckland Tower, a 29 metre tower which provides 360° views across Auckland Park, Bishop Auckland town and the rural landscape beyond.

www.aucklandproject.org

WOR BELLA @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Jake Anderson

Football is heavily rooted in the culture of the North. If you don’t believe it, just walk past The Strawberry on match day. However, a name that many fans of NUFC will not know is Bella Reay. A factory worker during the first World War, Bella raised money for charity on the side by playing football alongside other munitionettes for the Blyth Spartans.

The Alan Shearer of her day, Bella scored a whopping 133 goals in just 30 matches across the nation against other heroes on the home turf. Her story had largely been lost to time, but thanks to playwright and producer Ed Waugh it’ll be brought to life in the play Wor Bella, which tours the region this month.

Ed Waugh has a great track record in uncovering stories of local heroes, having brought tales about world champion boxer Glenn McCrory (in Carrying David) and rowing miner Harry Clasper (aka Hadaway Harry) to the fore in recent years. Wor Bella will be directed by Russell Floyd, best known for directing The Great Joe Wilson – another of Waugh’s productions about the so-called ‘bard of Tyneside’ – and will star Sunderland’s own Lauren Waine as Bella, best known for her contributions to Northern Stage’s War of the Worlds and Sage Gateshead’s The Great Geordie Songbook.

Wor Bella is performed at Phoenix Theatre, Blyth on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th; Queen’s Hall Arts, Hexham on Monday 28th; Newcastle Theatre Royal Studio on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th; Alnwick Playhouse on Thursday 31st March; Playhouse Whitley Bay on Friday 1st and South Shields’ Westovian Theatre on Saturday 2nd April. www.worbella.co.uk

Polar States

POLAR STATES @ KU BAR

Words: Jake Anderson

Anyone else noticed it’s getting a bit nippier up north? It could have something to do with Liverpudlian indie rockers, Polar States, travelling up on the jet stream to play at Stockton’s KU Bar. Or it could just be because it’s winter, but really, I don’t think we’ll ever know.

The band’s lo-fi DIY sound will ring throughout Stockton on Friday 25th March, bellowing out their energetic bangers such as the bouncy 2020, and their newest single So Much Happened Since You Came – which takes more influence from slacker rock, but still adheres to the band’s signature sound.

First support of the night will be Motel Carnation. These Geordie lads radiate with swagger on stage, blasting their electronic indie collage. It’s perfectly seen with tracks like the hypnotic Baby You’re A Nightmare, which features an earworm of a hook, and the bold but mysterious Déjà vu (Caught Up). Also supporting are Teesside’s Nice Guy, a band who are infamous for their alternative and futuristic sounds, showcasing it on up-beat anthems like Fake Leather and the warm and gentle Shame.

Polar States, Motel Carnation and Nice Guy play KU Bar, Stockton on Friday 25th March. www.polarstates.com

Supersuckers

SUPERSUCKERS @ THE CLUNY

Words: Lee Fisher

Two years ago, as the realities of a potential lockdown started to kick in, Supersuckers (rather surprisingly) showed up at The Cumberland Arms and by all accounts tore Newcastle a new one. And now they’re back for a show at Newcastle’s Cluny on Friday 25th March, proving that it takes more than a global pandemic to thwart the evil powers of rock ’n’ roll.

Eddie Spaghetti is the sole original member of a band which emerged from Tucson in the late eighties, did the whole sign to Sub Pop/get snapped up by a major/get unceremoniously dropped merry-go-round in the nineties, but the Supersuckers formula has – thankfully – remained pretty constant: a shitkickin’ blend of country, southern rock, punk and Thin Lizzy (with the odd foray into covering hip-hop songs and the like). Sometimes all you need for a great night out is a load of beer, some cowboy hats and greasy denim and a bunch of riffs that are so perfectly formed they sound both fresh and as old as time. They’ve got a pretty great line in merch too <polishes his Arizona state flag Supersuckers belt buckle>. So let’s see you head to The Cluny to submit to the sacrilegious sounds of The Supersuckers.

Supersuckers play The Cluny, Newcastle on Friday 25th March. www.supersuckers.com

Benjamin Fitzgerald by Krzysztof Furgala

FROM THE GLASSHOUSE @ SAGE GATESHEAD

Words: Tom Astley

To celebrate World Piano Day, the fourth of Sage Gateshead’s From The Glasshouse series sees the venue team up with The Brudenell Piano Sessions in Leeds to present a diverse line-up for a pay-what-you-feel afternoon concert on Sunday 27th March. Both From The Glasshouse and Brudenell Piano Sessions champion collaboration and supportive environments for emerging musicians, and this concert will showcase work from three stunning and diverse musicians, Newcastle-based contemporary classical composers Benjamin Fitzgerald and Simeon Walker, alongside singer-songwriter IMOGEN.

Fitzgerald’s music is often haunting and delicate, evoking some of the wilderness of the Northumberland countryside; the addition of harp and violin to recent track The Cottage further accentuates the folk connection running through his work. Curator Simeon Walker’s music has an Avril 14th-esque dreaminess to it, revelling in the physicality of the piano, with the sounds of wood and ivory creaking alongside the notes themselves. His work is contemplative and full of space, and will illuminate the stage in Hall Two. IMOGEN is another of Newcastle’s exceptional singer-songwriters, with a Portishead-like sound that is as expansive as it is intimate, and her set will offer a solo, pared-down take on her songs.

From The Glasshouse featuring Benjamin Fitzgerald, Simeon Walker and IMOGEN takes place at Sage Gateshead on Sunday 27th March. www.sagegateshead.com

NORTH OF THE TYNE, UNDER THE STARS @ NEWCASTLE CITY CENTRE

Words: Lizzie Lovejoy

In the heart of the North, there will be a chance to celebrate the stories of our region. North Of The Tyne, Under The Stars is a free night-time festival taking place from Thursday 10th-Sunday 13th March which culminates in Newcastle city centre.

The character of The Story-Weaver is the focus of these events, having travelled through North Shields, Wallsend, Hexham, Blyth, Byker and Fenham throughout February and early March she will be creating tales and mythology of our Northern lands in this community art project.

The Story-Weaver’s final stop will be in Newcastle, where she will cover the city in light and projections, showing off the city’s iconic and historic architecture as it has never been seen before, entwined with beautiful imagery and tales; Newcastle Civic Centre will even be transformed into a zoetrope! With a range of pyrotechnic and audio design works, including Newcastle-based projection artists NOVAK and composer Roma Yagnik, the colours and vibrancy of this festival will call attention back to the diversity, heritage and beauty of the region.

From fables and folk tales, to the contemporary magic that is present in the city today, North Of The Tyne, Under The Stars shares the joys of what it means to be in the North with a magical explosion of light and sound. North Of The Tyne, Under The Stars takes place in Newcastle City Centre from Thursday 10th-Sunday 13th March. Audiences can also enjoy a neighbourhood event at Abbey Grounds, Hexham and Nun’s Moor Park, Fenham on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th March.

www.undernorthtynestars.co.uk

GLASS EXCHANGE @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Laura Doyle

The iconic Lindisfarne Gospels are getting a brief sojourn to their home region later this year, but it’s never too early to start celebrating one of the North East’s most impressive historical documents. The Christian manuscript, created on Holy Island in the 700s, is the most spectacular surviving example of Anglo Saxon literature, best known for its extravagant illustrations and bejewelled binding. It’s as much a piece of art as it is religious iconography, which Glass Exchange seeks to emphasise with its pan-Tyne-and-Wear project. Four contemporary artists have been given the opportunity to create their own glass work based on the Lindisfarne Gospels, which will be displayed in Sunderland and Durham in the months leading up to the Laing Art Gallery Exhibition this September.

Ryan Gander’s Sunderland city centre installation of a glass betting shop brings the flux state of the high street to the forefront of our attention; Colonial Ghost by Pascale Marthine Tayou investigates the relationship between colonisation and Christianity through African iconography incorporated into glass cross sculptures; Katie Paterson’s Urn and Hourglass exhibits focus on environmental change; Monster Chetwynd’s work will focus on the lives of St Bede and St Cuthbert, two North East native saints whose impacts on the region can still be felt today. When history meets art, it often makes for the most enlightening interpretations.

Glass Exchange exhibitions take place at various locations in Sunderland and Durham from Saturday 26th March until Sunday 11th September. www.sunderlandculture.org.uk/events/ glass-exchange

RIGHT HERE @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Claire Dupree

After the success of their maiden outing in August, touring cooperative Right Here have announced their next run of gigs this month. The touring network, which comprises of Teesside’s Famous Last Words, Sunderland’s Independent Live and Newcastle’s Little Buildings, intends to strengthen the gig going community with their cooperative approach to live programming. Three bands will perform a headline slot in their hometown, rotating the line-up across Little Buildings, Independent and The Green Room, Stockton.

March’s iteration of Right Here features a trio of alt. rock artists who all promise to bring thrilling and raucous live performances to the stage. Sunderland alt. rockers Kickin’ Lillies have been praised for their catchy rhythms and meaty riffs, while Newcastle’s Shallow (fka Creature) peddle a delightful line in fuzzy vocals and scuzzy, grungy atmospherics. Middlesbrough’s SWEARS will head up the Stockton show with their doomy beats and reverb-fuelled vocals; the band have been increasingly surpassing each live performance they throw themselves into, so expect electrifying performances! This kind of collaborative approach to programming is being rightly praised for its community spirit and willingness for all involved to succeed; all that’s needed is an engaged, music hungry audience – which is where you step in!

Right Here present SWEARS, Shallow and Kickin’ Lillies at The Green Room, Stockton on Thursday 10th, Little Buildings in Newcastle on Friday 11th and Independent, Sunderland on Saturday 12th March. www.linktr.ee/rightheretour

Lynks

LYNKS @ THE CLUNY 2

Words: Hope Lynes

It’s hard to describe Lynks, partly because they are a mysteriously masked superstar of the queer electro punk scene. Hidden away in Cluny 2 on Sunday 27th March, an insane performance like no other will take place for Lynks’ debut tour, where Newcastle will witness a performance usually disguised in London’s underground cult music scene. There is no disguise, however, about the masked fashion of the star – it’s loud, expressive and fun, and makes the whole ego a piece of artwork.

Lynks’ music is typified by exciting dance beats mixed with spoken word lyrics, which are often tongue in cheek, such as hit song Everyone’s Hot And I’m Not: “Everyone’s a model, they’re all Brazilian, I’m a librarian, from Wigan”. There’s a stunningly addictive lyrical craft in the ordinariness of the topics, yet a rare eloquence in their performance. With huge support on Radio 1 from superfan Jack Saunders and cited as ‘one to watch’ by Lauren Laverne, Lynks is a thrilling emerging artist in the pop rock genre, and this will be a unique show from a truly idiosyncratic artist.

Lynks play The Cluny 2, Newcastle on Sunday 27th March. www.lynkslynkslynks.bandcamp.com

THE SOUND OF SCIENCE @ GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE

Words: Mera Royle

Coming to Gosforth Civic Theatre from Thursday 17th-Sunday 20th March is a festival which will challenge all we think we know about science and music. The Sound of Science is set to celebrate the work of 28 musicians, artists and scientists who have come together to shine a spotlight on the role of science within music.

Merging chemistry with composition and biology with beats, the festival’s line-up demonstrates a huge variety of important jazz-based compositions and conversations, including Johnny Hunter’s Pale Blue Dot, an environmental suite to save our planet; Charlie Wilkinson’s Soapbox Science, which promotes women and non-binary scientists; Rebecca Nash Quintet’s Redefining Element 78 draws inspiration from chemistry; Lauren Kinsella’s work explores conservation; Graeme Wilson and Faye MacCalman explore improvisation in music and its relation to the patterns in nature; sound recordist David de la Haye presents a study of his work in ecoacoustics; and there’s chaotic systems and the collision of physics in music from Han-earl Park.

The free event is all about finding new, exciting and inspiring ways to learn about science through the viewfinder of music. “From climate change to vaccines, the importance of science to the way we live has never been clearer. Our events shine a spotlight on the role of science within music composition and improvisation, with a view to inspiring audiences new to one or both subjects.” says festival producer, Wesley Stephenson.

The Sound of Science takes place at Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle from Thursday 17th-Sunday 20th March. www.jazznortheast.com

slowthai by Crowns & Owls

SLOWTHAI @ O2 CITY HALL

Words: Ikenna Offor

Notorious for his wild antics, slowthai has long evoked a brazenly sleazy swagger more akin to punk than rap – just ask anyone who has ever seen him tear it up onstage. Peppered with sardonic humour, rambunctious spontaneity and louche insouciance, a slowthai gig is an infectiously subversive romp that sees anarchic bedlam deftly transposed into a carnivalesque exaltation of cheeky rabble-rousing, and North East fans can experience it for themselves at O2 City Hall on Monday 21st March.

That said, given the arresting displays of vulnerability displayed on both his debut and sophomore efforts, it’s blatantly clear that the Northampton’s very own Tyron Frampton is the farthest thing from a one-trick pony. Take his much-lauded, incendiary debut, 2019’s Nothing Great About Britain – for all the aggro-politicking of the title track, Doorman’s unbridled oomph and Inglorious’s chestthumping bellicosity, there’s Gorgeous’ warmly nostalgic mosaic and Peace Of Mind’s gritty optimism, not to mention the affecting autobiographical anecdotes of Northampton’s Child.

Last year’s TYRON saw Frampton further expand on the spirited duality of its predecessor, this time turning the gaze inward to candidly probe his own flaws and limitations with a mix of defiance and resignation. Unflinchingly caustic yet keenly perceptive, there’s truly never a dull moment with slowthai – whether you prefer head-banging gusto or earnest introspection, he’s got you covered.

slowthai plays O2 City Hall, Newcastle on Monday 21st March. www.slowthai.com

Ponyland

PONYLAND/ HONEYFLUX/FEED THE ELK @ COBALT STUDIOS

Words: Michael O’Neill

It is honestly bewildering to see, even in the face of all the disruption of the last couple of years, the North East music community continue to evolve, diversify and thrive. For evidence of this, look no further than this astoundingly varied line-up on offer at Cobalt on Friday 18th March.

Leading the proceedings is Ponyland: a heady, energetic ride into the world of live samba reggae, Afro-beat and jazz; their debut LP Mora Mora is a wonderfully abrasive and chameleonic wonder, bursting at the seams with personality and character. Next in line is Honeyflux, who have been likened to the love-child of Steely Dan, The War on Drugs and Soundgarden. Recent release God, Buddha & Me is the work of a talented outfit with a strong command of deep-pocket grooves and brilliant post-rock melodies. Rounding things off is Feed The Elk, who organisers consider to be the Toon’s “finest new boyband” who mix funk, reggae, punk, dub and rap-metal. From the small threads of evidence I could muster, they offer a phenomenal and diverse mixture of genres in a unique and fresh way.

All in all, it’s a brilliantly eclectic line-up at one of the Toon’s finest venues.

Ponyland, Honeyflux and Feed The Elk play Cobalt Studios, Newcastle on Friday 18th March. www.cobaltstudios.co.uk

Blanketman

NXTGN @ TEESSIDE UNIVERSITY SU & WESTGARTH SOCIAL CLUB

Words: Laura Doyle

There’s nowhere better in the country to be an emerging artist than here in the North East. With a multitude of small venues willing to give you the time of day, there are all kinds of opportunities to help you find your audience. Teesside is about to get another injection with new music alldayer NXTGN, an indie fest from The Kids Are Sold Gold (the people behind the hugely popular Twisterella), which promises to bring the best new acts for your consideration across venues in Middlesbrough on Saturday 26th March.

Included on the line-up are homegrown talents like indie pop girl-gang Komparrison and headliners from Hebden Bridge The Lounge Society, whose punk stylings have already tipped them as ones to watch in the region. They join an already packed slate, including Hartlepool pop icons Mt. Misery, Hull ambassadors Fever, Scottish rockers Dancing On Tables, alt. indie scamps Blanketman and indie pop Polish war veterans Wotjek the Bear (please do research their namesake if you’re having a bad day), with local tips including the likes of Joe Ramsey, Noprism and ZELA.

NXTGN offers so many choices that to list them all would be a herculean task. Thankfully, it is but a crisp twenty quid for over twenty bands across three stages – quite the bargain, especially when it gives the chance to get your foot in the door for the UK’s next generation of talent.

NXTGN takes place at Teesside University Students’ Union and Westgarth Social Club on Saturday 26th March. www.thekidsaresolidgold.co.uk

TYNE TO STAND UP @ TYNE THEATRE & OPERA HOUSE

Words: Hope Lynes

To support Rape Crisis Tyneside and Northumberland, comedy collective Felt Nowt welcome a host of female comedians at Tyne Theatre & Opera House to celebrate International Women’s Day on Tuesday 8th March, simultaneously showing solidarity in raising money for a charity which affects women daily.

Amazing talent supporting the cause includes up and coming comics as well as established names including Louise Young, Lauren Pattison, Rachel Jackson, Catherine Young, Katherine Tanney, Anja Atkinson, Hannah Walker, Lauren Stone, Estelle Anderson, Elaine Robertson, Zoe, Sam Mayes, Catherine Scott, Julie Grady Thomas and Kelly Edgar, with the show being hosted by Sammy Dobson. The serious importance of the cause must be highlighted; Rape Crisis works to provide sexual violence support services to women and girls via counselling, helplines and professional training. It is an incredibly valuable resource, and the support from the comedy industry really emphasises a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that is created from the support network.

Tyne To Stand Up takes place at Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle on Tuesday 8th March. www.feltnowt.co.uk

ENOLA GAY @ HEAD OF STEAM/INDEPENDENT

Words: Dominic Stephenson

Noise punks Enola Gay will play Newcastle’s Head of Steam and Sunderland’s Independent (on Sunday 6th and Monday 7th March respectively), at the beginning of their maiden UK headline tour which will see them nation-trotting across 29 venues in just over a month.

Formed in late 2019, the Belfast quartet burst onto the circuit with the blistering debut single The Birth Of A Nation in July 2020. Driven by lacerating bass and howling guitar, the rap-inspired vocals placed the Black Lives Matter movement front and centre. By the time of their second release, Sofa Surfing, it was clear Enola Gay are a band that hold no punches; meshing together elements of post-punk, noise rock, rap and industrial sounds in a melting pot of furious noise. The arrival of their debut EP, Gransha, saw them slice through deep-rooted societal issues head-on, conjuring up murky, thunderous and dense soundscapes. So far, their discography has provided a reliable punch in the face, so this imperative slab of Irish punk shouldn’t be missed when they visit the North East.

Enola Gay play Head of Steam, Newcastle on Sunday 6th and Independent, Sunderland on Monday 7th March. www.enolagay1.bandcamp.com