PREVIEWS

MUSIC

BRIDIE JACKSON @ THE CENTRAL BAR

Words: Matt Young

Making a rare outing as a solo performer, at what promises to be an intimate Central Bar performance on Sunday 11th December, composer, songwriter, creative practitioner and proud Northerner Bridie Jackson will undoubtedly bring the extraordinary voice and highly evocative musicianship she’s acclaimed for those lucky enough to attend. At turns her music and voice are described as beguiling, quirky, unique and baroque, and Jackson always brings her own special mix to the folk canon as she proceeds, even with spare accompaniment, to enchant and electrify in equal measure. No doubt she’ll also exhibit her easy, self-deprecating rapport as she spirits listeners away into her otherworldly aural creations. Having long held a special place in the hearts of other musicians and audiences alike, both solo and as Bridie Jackson And The Arbour, the esteem with which she’s held speaks volumes to her song writing skills. Innumerable radio sessions, sold out live shows and national recognition continue to fill up her CV all while sharing her love of musical creativity far and wide. Due to the intimate setting tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis so don’t miss this rare opportunity to see something magical up close. The gig is also a collab with Sunderland-based We Make Culture’s Young Musician’s Project, and will see performances from up and coming artists Eve Cole and Jenali. Bridie Jackson plays The Central Bar, Gateshead on Sunday 11th December. www.bridiejackson.com

MUSIC

ARCHIE MOSS @ THE GLOBE

Words: Lizzie Lovejoy

Archie Moss presents his traditional folk sounds at The Globe in Newcastle on Thursday 15th December, with superb support from North East accordion player Heather Ferrier and her newly minted trio. Going on tour to share and celebrate the upcoming release of his debut album, PH(R) ASE, Archie Moss will play his own take on traditional English folk music. After working alongside artists like Eliza Carthy, Cara Dillon and Jim Moray, and touring over the past two years across Europe, Archie Moss’ contemporary approach to playing and creation has led to a style of music that blends the traditional folk sound with modern pop music. Support artist Heather Ferrier is an accordionist, clog dancer and composer, and since moving to the North East from Stockport she’s charmed audiences with her debut solo concept EP From The Ashes, a collection which explores the way life became during the first Covid-19 lockdown. Her music is a mix of strong folk melodies with electronic soundscapes, displaying an alternative take on accordion music. Archie Moss and Heather Ferrier play The Globe, Newcastle on Thursday 15th December. www.theglobenewcastle.bar

Archie Moss

ART & LIT

BREAKING THROUGH TO FREEDOM @ SHIELDFIELD ART WORKS

Words: Helen Redfern

Breaking Through To Freedom is Talia Sena’s individual creative journey through her own experience of domestic abuse to discover survival, freedom, healing and thriving. This moving exhibition places very personal poems alongside evocative oil paintings that reflect the artist’s individual experiences and open up the conversation about the devastating realities of domestic abuse for many women. The exhibition, which runs from Saturday 3rd-Wednesday 14th December, is deliberately taking place during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, an annual international campaign which also reflects on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Human Rights Day. Shieldfield Art Works, the arts organisation based in Shieldfield, Newcastle that is hosting the exhibition, is holding an evening dedicated to Breaking Through To Freedom on Wednesday 7th December, where attendees will have the opportunity to reflect on the work and its themes over food and discussion, going deeper into the thought and theology behind the exhibition. The venue is where contemporary art, theological reflection and community activism intersect to promote socially engaged art that is often used to discuss, question and give voice to local and global issues. If Talia Sena’s work speaks to you, Breaking Through To Freedom has also been published as a small book which will be available to buy at the exhibition. Breaking Through To Freedom runs from Saturday 3rd-Wednesday 14th December at Shieldfield Art Works, Newcastle. www.saw-newcastle.org

Martha Hill performing Songs from Dracula the Musical, image by Rob Irish

MUSIC

MARTHA HILL: SONGS FROM DRACULA THE MUSICAL @ SAGE GATESHEAD

Words: Linsey Teggert

Which immortal being who operates by night do you usually associate with the Yuletide season? Nope, not Santa, not this year! As part of their Christmas programme on Wednesday 7th December, Sage Gateshead are resurrecting a performance of musical theatre songs from Newcastle alt. pop artist Martha Hill’s work-in-progress, Dracula the Musical. During their time as one of four artists in residence at Sage Gateshead, Martha has been able to work on a musical inspired by Dracula, conjured by a weird Covid lockdown obsession with the fabled Creature of the Night. Told with tongue-firmly in cheek the musical explores themes of sexuality and gender through a fascination with the mythical vampire, in the setting of a teenager’s bedroom. Martha’s residency allowed them to learn how to arrange and score orchestral instruments as well as receiving mentorship in musical theatre writing. This wickedly entertaining event provides the audience with a first impression of what to expect from Dracula the Musical, with songs performed by Martha and a band of musicians and singers. Dressing up isn’t compulsory but highly encouraged, so why not don your cape and fangs and top it off with a Santa hat for this fangtastic reprise. Martha Hill presents Songs From Dracula The Musical at Sage Gateshead on Wednesday 7th December. www.marthahillmusic.co.uk

ART & LIT

OPEN EXHIBITION @ GALLAGHER & TURNER

Words: Claire Dupree

Open exhibitions provide an ideal way for emerging artists to get their foot in the door at galleries, as well as an opportunity to sell their work; plus, they give us mere mortals a chance to see brand new work and engage with artists from our region. Newcastle gallery Gallagher & Turner are currently in the midst of their regular Open Exhibition, which runs until Saturday 21st January, and features 62 artists presenting over 80 pieces of work. Previous events have shone a spotlight on prestigious North Eastern creatives, and competition to be included can be fierce (over 360 entries were sifted through this year). “It’s a real eye-opener to some of the hidden talent we have in the North East,” gallery co-founder Clare Turner explains. “We are looking for work that brings us joy. And we feel we’ve got that in bucket loads this year!” A key part of the exhibition process is the opportunity to spark new relationships and strengthen existing ones. The exhibition will see the return of work by Johnnyx, whose playful prints and paintings have become popular at the gallery. Also joining the exhibition will be recognised practitioners like landscape artist Jill Campbell, the mildly surreal work of Gavin Watson and abstract artist and musician Richard Scott. Newer names on the scene include recent Sunderland University MA graduate Linda Calder and Middlesbroughbased painter and illustrator Errol Theunissen. Everything from drawing, collage and painting to print, ceramics, sculpture, textiles and jewellery will be on display, with all works available to buy. Gallagher & Turner’s Open Exhibition runs until Saturday 21st January. www.gallagherandturner.co.uk

Ghost//Signals by Ian Smith

MUSIC

GHOST//SIGNALS @ THE COMMON ROOM

Words: Cameron Wright

Ghost//Signals are the Geordie five-piece that have been catching everyone’s eye. Having ticked off a slew of big festivals over the last few years, and garnering radio play across stations like BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6Music as well as receiving lavish reviews across the board, it’s no wonder they’re up for a celebration. Their twinkling, dark twist on indie pop is an amalgamation of the synth inspired 1975 sound and the jangling riffs of The Smiths, which comes together as a fun, upbeat romp through indie culture. With the release of their latest album Lives Defined By Winter Skies, the band prepare for a show at The Common Room in Newcastle on Saturday 14th January. Kicking off the year in style, they’ve also amassed a hefty supply of amazing local talent in support. Audiences can expect Gothic, drum-led sounds of William Denton Wilde, the acoustic activism of Kieran Gallon, the swirling sadness of Sunderland’s Labyrinthine Oceans and Teesside’s alt. Goths The Golden Age of Nothing. In all, it promises to be a celebratory evening of dark, yet accessible sounds just perfect for the winter nights. Ghost//Signals, The Golden Age Of Nothing, Labyrinthine Oceans, Kieran Gallon and William Denton Wilde play The Common Room, Newcastle on Saturday 14th January. www.ghostsignals.bandcamp.com

WhiteNoise by Lucy Bea

MUSIC

WHITENOISE RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM

Words: Claire Dupree

While Teesside four-piece WhiteNoise may still be finding their feet stylistically, they’ve put together a cohesive debut album which is shot through with a youthful enthusiasm and glimpses of real talent. The Traveller gets an official launch at Middlesbrough’s Westgarth Social Club on Friday 16th December, and it’s clear that the last couple of years have marked a real period of growth for the band. Debut single Middle Man’s chugging riffs and driving rhythms offer something of a false impression, as they give way to the funky twang of barnstorming stomper No More which proves to be among the album’s real highlights. Conversation’s plaintive howls and anguished, spoken word interjections show a maturity and canny knack for songcraft, while Life In Ruin’s relatable storytelling style and angst-ridden vocal is curiously addictive. Pour A Pint For Me Britain is a state of the nation howl for attention; Underglow sees some impressive vocal theatrics from lead singer Cameron Young and, while it may be somewhat incongruous, instrumental track Message To The Floor is chock full of deliciously inventive stylistic tricks that are a real credit to drummer and lead producer Eddy Mason-Pooley. The Traveller has a real ability to surprise, and perhaps it’s the band’s refusal to stick to a pigeonhole that makes them such an enticing prospect. Ones to watch, for sure. WhiteNoise play Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough on Friday 16th, Middlesbrough’s Play Brew Co Taproom on Saturday 17th, NE Volume Music Bar, Stockton on Friday 23rd December and Billingham Catholic Club on Sunday 8th January. www.whitenoiseofficial.co.uk

ART & LIT

THE HOME @ NEWBRIDGE PROJECT

Words: Claire Dupree

The concept of ‘home’ can be an undefinable, often transient, thing; many of us have several physical living spaces throughout our lifetimes, but equally have places we feel at home – sometimes it’s where you lay your hat, sometimes it’s just the right place at the right time. It’s a theme that NewBridge Project will be exploring over the course of the next two years, as they consider their fairly recent move to new premises in the residential area of Shieldfield, and ask the artists and audiences that engage with them to consider their ideas around ‘the home’. As with everything NewBridge does, they’re keen for their programme to be participant and artist-led, so while exhibitions about artworks made within the home may be one focus, others could also include the ideas, realities and histories of housing, the migratory experience, domestic design, community and non-human dwellings. To kick the winter exhibition off on Saturday 3rd December, they’ll be celebrating work made by local artists, makers and their own artist community, with all kinds of mediums represented from drawings and paintings, to photography, film and books, digital art, textiles, fashion, music and craft. The second part of their investigation will begin on Saturday 28th January and run until Saturday 25th February, comprising a programme of exhibitions, events, talks and workshops which explore The Home and what it means in their community and space in Shieldfield. The Home runs at NewBridge Project, Newcastle from Saturday 3rd December- Saturday 25th February. www.thenewbridgeproject.com

Fern Maddie

MUSIC

FERN MADDIE & SARAH JANE SCOUTEN @ THE GLOBE

Words: Lizzie Lovejoy

The new year kicks off with a bang at The Globe in Newcastle, a place where music will always find its home. In this double bill showing of Canadian songwriters, folk musicians Fern Maddie and Sarah Jane Scouten will share headlining duties on Friday 20th January. Fern Maddie is a musical polymath from central Vermont. Having released her first EP, North Branch River, in 2020 to critical success, she launched a Kickstarter campaign which funded the release of her debut album, Ghost Story, in 2022. Fern’s music takes influence from string band music of the 60’s, dark country and experimental folk rock which she pulls together with her crisp vocals to create a distinctive musical voice. Sarah Jane Scouten is a four-time Canadian Folk Music Award nominee who uses a blend of ballad singing, soul and rock to create a form of contemporary folk that holds a lot of emotional power. Sarah Jane has developed her own version of indie Americana which is

designed to resonate with folkies around the world. Nothing evokes a story in quite the same way as contemporary folk, and she will perform tales to make audiences laugh and cry. With both artists exploring human narratives within their songwriting, the show promises to be a fine way to start the year. Fern Maddie and Sarah Jane Scouten play The Globe, Newcastle on Friday 20th January. www.fernmaddiemusic.com www.sarahjanescouten.com

COMEDY

NEW ACTS NEW MATERIAL NIGHT @ HOPS & CHEESE

Words: Claire Dupree

Since it’s the season to be jolly an’ that, what could be better than enjoying some top class comedic action surrounded by the finest cheese and superb local brews? Trick question. The answer is, of course: nothing. Teesside chortle peddlers Hilarity Bites present another of their New Acts New Material nights on Thursday 8th December at the excellent Hartlepool establishment Hops & Cheese. As the title suggests, the night enables comedians to break out their brand new stuff on an unsuspecting audience, and also gives a platform to up and coming talent too. Topping the bill is affable award-winning comic Pete Otway, whose energetic stage manner and original approach has seen him travel the world, while his dulcet tones are often heard on various radio stations as he hosts shows on BBC Radio 4 Extra and performs stand-up on BBC Radio 2 and Radio 4. Also joining the bill is Ant Dewson, whose silly songs and mediocre piano playing will still have you giggling, and North East favourite Lee Kyle who fuses daftness with genuine off-the-cuff wit to devastating effect. Plus, expect support slots from several new acts into the bargain. Hilarity Bites present Pete Otway, Ant Dewson, Lee Kyle and more at Hops & Cheese, Hartlepool on Thursday 8th December. www.hilaritybites.co.uk

MUSIC

I LIKE TRAINS @ POP RECS LTD.

Words: Matt Young

I Like Trains are art; they’re a band that have always sought out the bleak, idiosyncratic and inherently human when painstakingly piecing together their narrative odes to history. In earlier incarnations their dour, slow building epics reached crescendos of ear blistering sonic sibilance and roared with a ferocity that belied their studious and shyly affable personas. Performing at Pop Recs Ltd., in Sunderland on Saturday 10th December, I Like Trains have stubbornly born out the vagaries of fashion and trends, their own weighty expectations and those of fans enamoured of their tumultuous riffs. I Like Trains have rearranged members and refined their sound, experimented and sought out fresh inspirations. Humanity is doomed. KOMPROMAT is the latest release. We lie prostrate, exposed by the jeopardy of the environment, tech billionaires and corrupt politicians. Soundtracked by the seemingly resigned sounds of Leeds adopted surly voices, synth washes and Krautrock leaning beats. All we can do is wait. There is injustice. The truth is you can’t trust the truth. But behind the misery there is a shimmer, glints of change. Exploration of a new reality. Danceable mixes, hypnotic tones. Forward looking, even. I Like Trains are not to be missed, they are a unique, sardonic and uncompromising pole star in music’s firmament. Altered but never more relevant or needed. I Like Trains play Pop Recs Ltd., Sunderland on Saturday 10th December. www.iliketrains.co.uk

Jodie Nicholson by Ellen Dixon

MUSIC

JODIE NICHOLSON @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Michael O’Neill

It’s been a rather interesting couple of years for Hurworth-on-Tees-based solo artist Jodie Nicholson. She’s been blazing one hell of a trail which has seen her supporting the likes of Emeli Sande, The Futureheads and Bernard Butler; she’s been the very first artist to grace the stage at Sunderland’s shiny new venue The Fire Station; and she’s becoming a fixture on festival line-ups such as The Great Escape, Live at Leeds and Cambridge Folk Festival. It’s quite the CV, but even a casual dive into her discography makes clear why, and it’s no surprise that her music has managed to find a home on Radio 1, Radio 2 and Radio 6Music (which is, as far as I’m concerned, quite the guarantee of versatility!) Off the back of this tremendous wave of momentum, Jodie is undertaking a five-date tour of the North East. “I’m playing a run of intimate shows in December with my wonderful band in some of our fave North East venues.” She says. “Expect new songs, the usual favourites and something a lil’ more stripped-back. It feels like the perfect way to round off this year.” Jodie is supported on all dates by fellow solo singer-songwriter Joe Ramsay, whose relatable songs and indie folk vibes are also gaining serious acclaim. Jodie Nicholson and Joe Ramsey play Durham’s Claypath Deli (3rd December), Middlesbrough’s Off The Ground (10th December) The Waiting Room, Eaglescliffe (11th December), The Forum Music Centre in Darlington (14th December) and Bobik’s in Newcastle (17th December). www.jodienicholsonmusic.com

COMEDY

SARA PASCOE @ MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL

Words: Matt Young

Highly acclaimed comedian, writer, and actor Sara Pascoe heads out on the wintery roads to perform her brand new stand-up show, dropping in at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Saturday 28th January. She’s established herself amongst the finest and funniest of wits around, both on the live stage and on TV for many years. She’s also widened her audience further with her Sunday Times bestselling books and accompanying podcast as well as stints presenting shows on the BBC, Comedy Central and Dave. Her sarcastic and intelligent humour is available everywhere it seems, and the mix of silly with the serious really hits hardest when Pascoe shines a light on her own personal life and experiences and reflects them back at her audiences through an absurdist, political and most importantly woman’s perspective. There’s an effortless cool to her delivery, whether she’s dissecting relationships, sex, life’s mundanities or its more obtuse moments, skewering every subject she tackles. Sara decided she wanted to be famous at 14 years old. Since then, she has auditioned for Barrymore, scared Pete Burns and ruined Hugh Grant’s birthday – but look at her now… (please look, she needs you to look. And clap. And laugh. And then clap again). Mission accomplished then, just remember to buy your tickets and show up! Sara Pascoe performs at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Saturday 28th January, and later in 2023 at Tyne Theatre & Opera House on Thursday 16th March. www.saraontour.com

Pave The Jungle by Lewis Palmer

MUSIC

PAVE THE JUNGLE & PALS @ THE LUBBER FIEND

Words: Matt Young

Exhibiting their own riffy, alt. rock swagger, Newcastle’s Pave The Jungle host a night full of raucous rawk promise – possibly chaotic, definitely joyful – at the Lubber Fiend on Sunday 11th December. This cobweb clearing extravaganza and antidote to the saccharine Christmas tunes we’ll be sick to death of (again) by then will see songs aired from Pave The Jungle’s previous Waiting For Nothing and Hissing EPs as well as newer material conjured up from their impassioned and assured melodic anger, vital delivery and relentlessly pounding foundations. The supporting ‘pals’ in question feature some of the region’s best about-to-explode, on-the-cusp, play-sweat-and-be-damned DIY bands around right now. Teesside’s Onlooker shred frenetic garage rock, evoking the snaking riffs and driving beats of At The Drive In, they’re urgent and immediate with melodies to burn. Fast Blood bring their accessible punk energy and emo-tinged songs out to play; you’ll find yourself dancing while feeling a simultaneous winsome regret and maybe slight bruising as their relatable lyrics get you right in the core. Shallow’s dirty grunge rock will thicken the air, and evocative soaring vocals and buzzsaw riffs will spin heads and kick ass, stealthily creeping energy to get close before jostling you into the mosh pit. Ferocious post-hardcore duo Mally round out the line-up, so expect the scuzz, fuzz and bathos of Dead Kennedys to bark and amuse in equal amounts. It’s a damn fine line-up and probably contender for gig of the year. Just saying. Pave The Jungle and Pals play The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle on Sunday 11th December. www.pavethejungle.com

Girls in Synthesis by Bea Dewhurst

MUSIC

GIRLS IN SYNTHESIS @ ZEROX

Words: Ali Welford

A standout force on the noisier end of the UK’s contemporary post-punk spectrum, Girls In Synthesis’ long-awaited North East debut comes at the end of another dire year in which their caustic, agitating sound has felt startlingly apt. Bringing their furious clamour to Newcastle’s Zerox on Thursday 8th December, the Londoners arrive off the back of a sophomore album which internalises their taut, abrasive palette in an explosive release of zeal and pent-up indignation. Built on twin pillars of claustrophobia and mental anguish, October’s The Rest Is Distraction marks another significant milestone for a trio whose reputation was forged by a fierce run of pre-plague singles, before being entrenched with 2020’s maiden full-length, Now Here’s An Echo From Your Future. It’s from the live stage, however, that their notoriety has stemmed most potently of all, and following jaunts opening for (and in certain cases, blowing away) everyone from Slaves and Wolf Alice to Damo Suzuki and our own Pigs x7, this month’s headlining turn feels an unmissable proposition. As ever, promoter Endless Window completes the bill with a pair of enticing local supports. Adding their own streak of grimy glam punk are Teesside’s refreshingly to-the-point garage rockers Rudi Betamax, while reliable rabble rousers SMUJ jumpstart proceedings with a singular brew of tuneful discord and obnoxious squalor. Girls In Synthesis, Rudi Betamax and SMUJ play Zerox, Newcastle on Thursday 8th December. www.girlsinsynthesis.co.uk

COMEDY

ALISON SPITTLE @ THE STAND

Words: Cameron Wright

Wet is Alison Spittle’s debut UK tour, coming to The Stand on Tuesday 31st January, and contains a story about a fight breaking out during an aqua-aerobics session, which serves as a perfect introduction for those unaware of the Irish comedian. The co-host of BBC Radio 5’s Wheel of Misfortune, Alison Spittle is a giddy and excitable storyteller, as her rich imagery and surreal visuals often finds anecdotes getting waylaid by her own hysterical laughter. The joyfully energetic and bubbly comic received rave reviews from her run at the Edinburgh Fringe, praising her original material that steers away from the tropes one may expect from an upcoming comedian. With her run at the Fringe reaping glowing reviews, the comedian’s candour, charm and cyclical writing have seen her noted as one of the year’s most astute additions to the circuit. Instantly approachable, relatable and authentic, Spittle’s stage presence is as genuinely fun as the material she provides. From such a simple story, she’ll take you on a journey with wonderfully silly anecdotes and erudite routines waxing lyrical on an array on subjects, from the benign to the poignant. Alison Spittle performs at The Stand, Newcastle on Tuesday 31st January. www.alisonspittle.com

MUSIC

BBC RADIO 3’S NEW MUSIC SHOW @ THE FIRE STATION

Words: Lizzie Lovejoy

BBC Radio 3’s New Music Show returns to the North East on Tuesday 20th December, with an event showcasing a range of musical acts at Sunderland’s Fire Station. The free to attend performance will include the sounds of Ligeti Quartet and Distractfold Ensemble. With a series of residencies up and down the country, Ligeti Quartet have established themselves firmly as an innovative and groundbreaking group who explore jazz and orchestral sounds, honing their fascination with new music, they take elements of the classic genres and weave their audio delights into new and wondrous shapes. Distractfold Ensemble meanwhile are a group of seven performers, composers and curators who love to create and share music in a range of genres, from electro acoustic to experimental jazz. Despite their diverse musical output, as a collective they share a unique musical voice. If you happen to miss the performances of these unique and varied artists live, the show will be recorded and broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s New Music Show on Saturday 7th January. BBC Radio 3’s New Music Show featuring Ligeti Quartet and Distractfold Ensemble takes place at The Fire Station, Sunderland on Tuesday 20th December. www.sunderlandculture.org.uk

Crywank

MUSIC

CRYWANK @ THE CLUNY

Words: Jason Jones

From the decision to form a project without a lick of musical experience to their name, to the unabashedly explicit nature of said name, Crywank have never done things the orthodox way. What started initially as a solo project for songwriter Jay Clayton back in the halcyon malaise of 2009 has since evolved and grown into a fuller line-up, and a steadfast partnership with percussionist Dan Watson. Drawing vast inspiration from the American anti-folk scene, Crywank pair sparse, cuttingly simple instrumentals with confessional lyrics that toy with self-criticism, dry humour, and tongue-in-cheek deconstructions of creeping paranoias and droll niches alike. Characterised by a ‘sad but fun’ sound that drips with candour and an enigmatic charm, the band’s unwavering DIY ethos (they remain self-managed even after nine albums) has helped them to build a cult following of loyal devotees and a mammoth online presence, despite the self-imposed ceiling of their post-watershed moniker. Clayton and Watson bring their distinct live show to The Cluny on Wednesday 7th December. Joining them in support will be lo-fi Canadian outfit Commuted. Crywank and Commuted play The Cluny, Newcastle on Wednesday 7th December. www.crywank.bandcamp.com

The 1975 by Samuel Bradley

MUSIC

THE 1975 @ UTILITA ARENA

Words: Cameron Wright

Self-deprecating indie pop group The 1975 leapt onto the scene with a kitsch collection of charming, memorable pop ditties on their 2013 debut, Sex. Since the debut, Matthew Healy and the boys have built traction in a way few bands of the last decade have. Now one of the decade’s biggest British exports, The 1975’s barrage of songs are rife with big choruses, infectious hooks and lyrics that have been permanently embedded on a generation. Over the years, the many sounds of the band have seen them dabble with bouncing synth pop, twinkling folk rock and even moments of garage, rock and chamber pop. While producing a sprawling array of content, The 1975 have been a constant topic of discussion, as the polarising experiments and outlandish lifestyle of the band have kept them at the epicentre of the conversation. The band’s recently released new album, Being Funny In A Foreign Language, sees them teaming up with producer phenomenon Jack Antonoff for their most succinct and direct release in years, and they’ll bring it to the live stage at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on Wednesday 25th January. The 1975 play Utilita Arena, Newcastle on Wednesday 25th January. www.the1975.com

COMEDY

MATT REED @ TYNE THEATRE & OPERA HOUSE

Words: Jake Anderson

If you’re in the need for a bit of a laugh to kick off the new year (and with how 2022 has treated us, who doesn’t?), then you’ll be happy to hear that local comedian Matt Reed plans on stirring up the chuckles when he performs at Tyne Theatre & Opera House on Saturday 14th January – just enough time to get over the hangovers. Born and raised in the glorious land that is known as Sunderland, Reed has been a comedian longer than I’ve been alive, and he claims to have done it all… If he’s ridden a horse on stage I’d be surprised, although he has apparently gotten nude on stage, so it’s not out the realm of possibility. His sense of pride for the region bleeds into his act, described as having an “everyman” style, whether it’s discussing accents or the party life of Bigg Market, his set is stuffed with funny anecdotes and skits, and he isn’t afraid to get audience members on stage or comeback with a quick retort. Having been praised for his quick wit, smart cracks and warm style, his show will be a perfect way to kick off the new year. Matt Reed performs at Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle on Saturday 14th January. www.mattreedcomedian.com

Big Joanie by AjamuX

MUSIC

BIG JOANIE @ THE CLUNY

Words: Jason Jones

Big Joanie are, objectively speaking, one of the coolest bands in Britain today. There’s no point in arguing, it’s just a fact. The London trio, formed nearly a decade ago, have ground and grafted their way from DIY rookies to towering heroines of the punk scene, challenging a notable lack of intersectionality in the process. Black, feminist, and unapologetic, the band channel the furious spirit of the ‘90s riot grrrl movement and borrow from the synth-heavy inclinations of post-punk to craft a sound that is as nuanced and thought-provoking as it is distinct. Debut album Sistahs, released through Thurston Moore and Eva Prinz’s Daydream Library Series, catapulted Big Joanie to a streak of prestigious support slots, with the group sharing bills alongside the likes of Bikini Kill, Sleater-Kinney, Gossip and Idles, among others. Sophomore record Back Home was released in early November to a similarly enthusiastic reception, and found vocal champions in Pitchfork, The Guardian and many, many more. Urgent and propulsive in their intelligence, their return to Newcastle’s Cluny on Sunday 15th January is not to be missed. Trust us. Big Joanie play The Cluny, Newcastle on Sunday 15th January. www.bigjoanie.com

MUSIC

JAEJA @ THE GLOBE

Words: Cameron Wright

Formed for an expedition to uncharted bluegrass territory of Iceland, Jæja are a phenomenal contemporary quartet comprised of four inquisitive young musicians from the UK, mixing influences of jazz, metal and Icelandic folk. They’ll bring their experiments on the road with a show at The Globe, Newcastle on Friday 9th December. With several releases available online, the new quartet have wasted no time creating lilting and engaging pieces that capture the sounds of the mountains, the snow and the waters of Iceland. Despite the chilly inspiration of their melodic sounds, their music manages to be both warm and wholesome, as the collective fly through a myriad of instrumental compositions. Armed with guitar, bass, mandolin and fiddle, the energy, virtuosic talent and passion the four musicians bring is a beautiful testament to bluegrass and Iceland itself. Thoughtful, original, inventive and dazzling, this project is an undeniable celebration of music and one that any fan of the genre will enjoy. Jæja’s night of world-building is a masterful endeavour full of personality, charm and melody. Jæja play The Globe, Newcastle on Friday 9th December. www.jaejamusic.com

MUSIC

MATT DEIGHTON @ THE COMMON ROOM

Words: Michael O’Neill

Long considered one of Britain’s greatest lost talents, you may recognise Matt Deighton (who is making a stop at Newcastle’s Common Room on Saturday 3rd December) from his previous stints as the frontman of acid jazz heroes Mother Earth, or as Paul Weller’s guitarist in the late 90s, or more recently as the oft-considered natural successor to the throne previously held by the likes of Nick Drake, Davey Graham and John Martyn. It’s quite an interesting career arc, especially when you consider the fact that he once briefly replaced Noel Gallagher in Oasis. Although this second career as something of a Britpop Zelig admittedly makes for some eye-catching copy, I strongly advise that you don’t let that inform your expectations of his output; from 1995’s Villager through to last year’s Kids Steal Feelings, Matt has succeeded at brilliantly building upon the spirit of the genre-bending, high-quality output of those aforementioned singer-songwriters, whilst never falling into the trap of becoming too clichèd or too pastiche in his approach. It’s an all-too-tempting pitfall of many an artist who dares to pick up where legends have left off, but he makes it look far too easy. Matt Deighton plays The Common Room, Newcastle on Saturday 3rd December. www.mattdeighton.co.uk

Dirty Dike

MUSIC

DIRTY DIKE @ THE CLUNY

Words: Adam Paxton

On Tuesday 6th December, The Cluny sees one of the most influential figures in today’s UK hip-hop scene roll into town. Dirty Dike, the prolific producer and rapper, and driving force behind much of what has been good about High Focus’s output over the last ten years is not something to be missed. If you’ve not listened to him before, his sound is a mix of juxtapositions; abrasive in content and attitude, but polished and virtuosic in its production and delivery. Dike’s output, his production in particular, owes a lot to a more old school form of hip-hop; you’ll find no heavy trap or drill influences here. Instead, Dike samples from an eclectic range of influences, creating beats that are deceptively simple on the surface, but that simplicity is achieved through supreme musical maturity and nuanced sensibility. If you’ve heard Dike rhyme, you know how good he is, so it says a lot that his production almost overshadows his ability as an emcee. Give this show a visit if you want to hear what the best producer in the UK sounds like in his element. Dirty Dike plays The Cluny, Newcastle on Tuesday 6th December. www.dirtydike.co.uk

Heather Ferrier Trio by Saya Rose Naruse

MUSIC

HEATHER FERRIER TRIO @ COBALT STUDIOS

Words: Ali Welford

When Heather Ferrier spoke of assembling a band back in our April issue, the natural assumption was that she’d set her eyes on adapting the electronically-tinged alt. folk of debut EP From The Ashes for the live stage. In the event, the trio she’s concocted is an altogether more exciting proposition. Complementing the warmth and lustre of Heather’s trademark accordion are guitarist Alasdair Paul (Pons Aelius) and drummer Adam Stapleford (Taupe, Yes Grasshopper); a line-up whose dynamism opens ever more novel and contemporary doors, all while remaining true to Heather’s instinctive aptitude for rhythm and complex musical harmony. This alchemy was vividly highlighted last month by new single 5 Minute Walk, a considerable sonic and compositional leap which promises great things ahead of their live debut at Newcastle’s Cobalt Studios on Thursday 8th December. Support on the evening comes from London-based fiddle and guitar duo Owen Spafford & Louis Campbell. Previously known for their work with Cosmo Sheldrake and Sam Sweeney, the pair arrive hot on the heels of debut album You, Golden, another striking, emotive display of modern folk expertly pitting their own fresh material alongside a clutch of remodelled traditional tunes. As with all of Cobalt’s Fresh Thursdays, a tenner buys you buys you some fabulous live music plus a hearty plant-based dinner, with £7 tickets also available for the gig only. We’d nudge you towards the former – but either way, this show comes highly recommended! Heather Ferrier Trio and Owen Spafford & Louis Campbell play Cobalt Studios, Newcastle on Thursday 8th December. www.heatherferriermusic.com

MUSIC

THE SUBWAYS @ INDEPENDENT

Word: Jake Anderson

If you’re looking to throw yourself back into live music after Christmas, look no further than the return of exciting rockers The Subways, who return in the new year with their fifth studio album, Uncertain Joys, which releases on 13th January, and a live show at Sunderland’s Independent on Saturday 28th January. It’s been about eight years since the band’s last full-length LP, but they certainly haven’t lost their touch; their newest release still has the same high tempo rock sound, with standout tracks like You Kill My Cool, a 2000s indie/ garage rock throwback, which has a great kick to it and channels a playful, aggressive energy into a quick, roaring bop. Joining them at Independent will be Gaffa Tape Sandy, who feature a punk spin on the UK’s typical garage rock sound; check out their track Kill The Chord, which displays the hard-hitting energy that a raw and aggressive punk anthem needs. Also supporting will be local faves bigfatbig, who’ve recently released their debut EP Rockin’ and Rollin’ and Whatnot, which sees the group flexing their signature up-tempo pop punk sound. The Subways, Gaffa Tape Sandy and bigfatbig play Independent, Sunderland on Saturday 28th January. www.thesubways.net

The Subways by Laura Lewis

MUSIC

PEALIE’S BARN FUNDRAISER GIGS

Words: Claire Dupree

With a desire to create a grassroots hub for music, art and culture in North Yorkshire, Pealie’s Barn has earned itself legendary status among local musicians and residents, thanks in no small part to the eponymous Pealie’s dedication and passion to see the project through. An 18th Century hay barn turned music venue located on Cockleberry Farm near East Cowton, Northallerton (where Pealie himself grew up), the conversion of the venue has been a labour of love, and musicians and audiences who’ve spent time there wax lyrical about the set-up, from carefully chosen musical acts to a well-stocked bar and warm atmosphere. Since October the venue has been forced to close while an essential planning application is submitted to the local council, and any means the venue has of generating income have disappeared. So this month, Pealie is taking his Barn on tour, with a series of shows in Teesside to raise money for the fundraiser to keep Pealie’s Barn alive. The first gig takes place at The Quakerhouse in Darlington on Friday 2nd December, featuring performance from James Gray Robson among others; plus a co-pro with Darlo label Butterfly Effect Records takes place at The Green Room in Stockton on Saturday 17th December featuring soulful fuzz rockers (and Pealie’s Barn house band) Scruffy Bear, alt. rockers Nalgo Bay and more tbc. www.pealiesbarn.co.uk

Josie Long by Matt Crockett

COMEDY

JOSIE LONG @ THE STAND

Words: Cameron Wright

Triple Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, panel show alumni and alternative comedy institution, Josie Long shouldn’t need an introduction. The mastermind comic has cultivated her underground fan base through decades of thought provoking, charming, varied and heartfelt projects, and her credits range from being a writer on Channel 4’s iconic teen drama Skins, to winning gold for Best Radio Podcast at the British Podcast Awards in both 2017 and 2018. Re-Enchantment, which she performs at The Stand in Newcastle on Sunday 15th January, marks her return to stand-up comedy and is based around the discomfort of change. The show addresses the array of adaptations Long’s life has gone through over the past several years, interweaving universal changes like ageing, parenthood and the pandemic, with extremely personal subjects such as her move to Glasgow or her recent ADHD diagnosis; the show is as affecting as it is introspective. What hasn’t changed is Long’s wholesome, hopeful brand of optimism and charm. Gently guiding us through tales of hardship and humour, the consummate professional carries the mood through personal anecdotes, political rants and hilarious observations, resulting in a show which finds beauty in the ugliest of circumstances. Josie Long performs at The Stand, Newcastle on Sunday 15th January. www.josielong.com

MUSIC

RUBELLA BALLET @ THE PEACOCK

Words: Michael O’Neill

Sunderland’s almighty venue The Peacock continues to blaze a trail as one of the city’s most intriguing upstart venues with one hell of an anarchic line-up led by Gothic anarchopunk royalty Rubella Ballet, who perform at the venue on Sunday 4th December. Initially forming in 1979 in the midst of the colossal tidal wave in which punk became a multi-faceted, unpredictable beast, the group found a home in the network of frenetic noise that was spearheaded by the likes of Crass and Poison Girls. Once settled, they steadfast gained a reputation for sporting neon-heavy Day-Glo stage wear, which offered something of a tongue-in-cheek contrast to their music, a Gothic and dark whirlpool of noise that grapples with the political and personal. Besides a hiatus through the 90s, the group have remained prolific and urgent, with an extensive UK tour showing they have no intention of calling it a day anytime soon. It’s going to be quite the enthralling endurance test for your eardrums, as support is provided by opinionated punk band Slalom D, melodic angsty four-piece LoGOz and genre-defying rock ‘n’ roll spoken word artists Cherry & Peesh. Rubella Ballet, Slalom D, LoGOz and Cherry & Peesh play The Peacock, Sunderland on Sunday 4th December. www.rubellaballet.com

MUSIC

THE CASINO BRAWL @ THE CLUNY

Words: Cameron Wright

The Casino Brawl take to The Cluny’s stage for a night off noise, anarchy and rock ‘n’ roll on Thursday 29th December, as they return to reclaim their crown as one of the most exciting bands in the region. The Newcastle-based band first burst onto the scene in 2006 and enjoyed a career of European tours, explosive live shows and two sold out headline slots at O2 Academy. Their post-hardcore sound, with plunging guitars and pulse stopping screams, was amplified in a live setting and the band’s energy revved up the carnage beautifully. Separating in 2012, the band’s hiatus has stretched for a decade, but their raucous effect still looms over the North East. A return to the scene sees a reinvigorated band pick up their clash of melody and emotion for what promises to be an epic reunion. Support for the show comes from Newcastle riff rockers Headcage, who combining gentle, almost crooning vocals over the top of building, poignant rock music. Also joining the bill is one of the region’s most exciting heavy acts, Rituals. The band have been garnering phenomenal traction of late thanks to their huge choruses, damning riffs and devastating vocals, and their live presence speaks for itself. The Casino Brawl, Rituals and Headcage play The Cluny, Newcastle on Thursday 29th December. www.thecasinobrawl.bandcamp.com

The Family Rain by Stewart Baxter

MUSIC

THE FAMILY RAIN @ THE CLUNY 2

Words: Maria Winter

Blues rockers The Family Rain kick off their 2023 musical journey with a highly anticipated mini UK tour, appearing at Newcastle’s Cluny 2 on Sunday 29th January. Comprised of three brothers: William, Ollie and Timothy Walter, their harmonic diversity creates a unique soundscape, and their live show is spirited and energetic. They’ve amassed a firm following thanks to an array of notable performances, including supporting The Rolling Stones at Hyde Park. After splitting up in 2016, then announcing their return in November 2019, The Bath-based brothers have continued to release dynamic singles which have firmly embedded their musical style in the indie rock world, with more of an emphasis on heavy rock features including distinct guitar riffs and vocal effects. In particular, the tracks Death In Slow Motion and Head In A Hornet’s Nest resemble the likes of chart-botherers Arctic Monkeys thanks to massive choruses and stadium-sized melodies. The Family Rain play The Cluny 2, Newcastle on Sunday 29th January. www.facebook.com/thefamilyrain