NEWS

A Mind Full Of Nothing But Continue, artwork by Paul Smith

MUSIC

PAUL SMITH: A MIND FULL OF NOTHING BUT CONTINUE ALBUM RELEASE

Words: Claire Dupree

If there’s ever been a time for music which gives a sense of place, it’s right now. If you’re looking for something to take you back to Tyneside’s glorious streets without actually having to set foot outside, look no further than Paul Smith’s album A Mind Full of Nothing But Continue, recently made available via Bandcamp.

The Maximo Park frontman was originally commissioned to write the largely a capella album in response to the route of the Great North Run. It’s a wonderfully evocative album which reflects on the landscape of the race, from Cowgate on the edge of the city to the coast where the race finishes, as well as the actions and feelings of the runners, while also managing to be lightly humorous (and possibly contains the first Brockley Whins pun in musical history). The album’s variety of voices (and occasional synth) is laid out in one continuous track, providing an undulating rhythm and culminating in a mesmerising listen.

“I was inspired by Meredith Monk and Björk’s Medulla album, along with doo-wop music, which I’ve always loved.” Paul explains. “However, I didn’t want to process or interfere with the voices too much, so it hopefully has a raw quality that marks it out.”

A Mind Full Of Nothing But Continue is available to buy and stream via Paul Smith’s Bandcamp page www.paulsmithmusic.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT

EVERYDAY ART FOR EXTRAORDINARY TIMES

Words: Claire Dupree

Ouseburn Valley’s Cobalt Studios are appealing to the creative community to submit artwork created in isolation and in response to Covid-19, which they will collate into a limited edition riso printed publication once lockdown is over.

It’s a typically open-ended project from the organisers; Cobalt as a venue has become known for its forward-thinking and supportive policy. “One of our first personal responses to this unexpected and challenging time was a kind of inherent understanding that creativity would have a key role to play during this pandemic.” Explains Cobalt’s Kathryn Hodgkinson. “Behind the front lines culture of all types offers unique opportunities for political comment, personal reflections, escapism, solace, connection and much more beyond. Also, this enforced time locked away from our usual lives and many of our everyday pressures and time constraints is a unique opportunity for a more creative existence. We see the project as a kind of collective archive, a chance to gather a breadth of glimpses into internal and external Covid-19 worlds at the moment, a chance to convey a political message or simply a documentation of an extraordinary time.”

Work can be submitted via email to hello@ cobaltstudios.co.uk, and must be a jpg suitable for Facebook or Instagram. Artwork can take any form and can be a work in progress, sketches or fully finished work.

Find out more about Cobalt’s Everyday Art for Extraordinary Times project on their social media pages www.facebook.com/cobaltstudioscic

ART & LIT

STAY HOME, STAY QUEER

Words: Claire Dupree

Self-proclaimed ‘cabaret maker and binary breaker’ Melody Sproates is hoping to keep spirits up in the LGBTQIA+ community with their new project entitled Stay Home, Stay Queer.

As much a project to keep Melody’s own spirits up as to support their community, Stay Home, Stay Queer is a free downloadable resource pack in zine format featuring positive art, creative activities, inspiring quotes, identity celebrating tips, mental health advice and wisdom from Melody and other North East queer icons. Lovingly designed in a colourful ‘zine style by Newcastlebased illustrators and designers iAMi Creative, it’s a beautiful and positive representation of the region’s LGBTQIA+ community.

“I wanted to create something that I felt I needed during this time – a little queer pick me up and helping hand to feel connected.” Melody explains. “The idea started after I was thinking of ways I could still reach out to LGBTQIA+ young people – plus Trans day of Visibility (31st March) passed during lockdown and I needed something to happen so I didn’t feel alone; I ran an online craft day on my social media and I was really buzzing as it had a really positive response. LGBTQIA+ people are at home right now wanting to connect, share things creatively and chase away the quarantine blues! I hope folks enjoy Stay Home, Stay Queer and find it helpful and inspiring as they navigate their queer identity during this period of social distancing.”

Melody’s encouraging people to get interactive on social media using the hashtag #stayhomestayqueer. To get hold of a copy of Stay Home, Stay Queer visit Melody Sproats’ social media pages on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram www.facebook.com/melodysproatesperformer www.twitter.com/grohllikeatroll www.instagram.com/melodygroovysproates

ART & LIT

VIRTUAL NOIR AT THE BAR

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Since its inception in Philadelphia in 2008, Noir at the Bar events have become a worldwide phenomenon for anyone with a passion for crime fiction, offering free readings from a host of both established and up and coming authors. Hosted by Whitley Bay writer Victoria Watson, Newcastle’s Noir at the Bar kicked off in 2016 and has since been a hit with both readers and writers, hosting Richard & Judy Book Club picks Gytha Lodge and Harriet Tyce among many others.

Originally, the bi-annual event was set to be hosted at The Town Wall at the end of April. Yet current events haven’t stopped Watson and other keen members of the crime fiction community from coming together to celebrate the genre. Since the beginning of April she’s been hosting weekly Noir at the Bar events via Zoom every Wednesday evening and she’ll be continuing throughout May, pledging to keep the gatherings going until the restrictions are lifted. Watson has already lined up a whole host of authors to join her, including noir juggernauts Ann Cleeves and Sarah Hillary alongside some of the genre’s rising stars. Whether you’re new to the style or a crime aficionado, Watson is continuing to bring the community together from their own homes.

To join the Virtual Noir at the Bar audience signing up to their mailing list to receive a code for the event

Ann Cleeves by David Hirst

COMEDY

LEE KYLE’S GIANT COMEDY SHOW FOR FAMILIES WHO AREN’T BORING

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Is your family boring? Of course not! During the current situation though, between limitations on leaving the house as well as balancing home-schooling and working from home, it’s understandable that even the jolliest of family units can feel the strain. Luckily, there’s now a weekly dose of comic relief suitable for all ages thanks to local comedian Lee Kyle. Throughout the current restrictions, Kyle is putting on a show every Thursday at 2pm live from his own living room with no live audience.

Being housebound certainly isn’t going to stop Kyle from being riotously funny. His wealth of experience in family entertainment (including five years of hosting The Stand’s kids show, doing TV warm-up for CBBC and working with Sweep and Basil Brush) means he’s primed to deliver big belly laughs that are both silly and cheeky (in a very family-friendly way, of course). Together with a gamut of guests (who, come to think of it, do look quite a lot like Kyle…), his mastery of keeping kids engaged without being patronising while also making sure that their adults are equally entertained will bring more than a few smiles to households across the region, tearing any tedium to shreds.

Adult audiences should also keep an eye out for a brand new hour of comedy from the comedian on Tuesday 19th May via his Facebook page. www.facebook.com/imleekyle

MUSIC

CACHE-CACHE RELEASE NEW SINGLE, SHE’S GOT A LION

Words: Caitlin Disken

Futuristic pop duo Cache-Cache are back with their catchy, upbeat single She’s Got a Lion. Due to be released on 15th May, it’s the band’s most experimental offering yet. A slight change in direction from earlier singles Superhuman and Mother Tongue, the tune mixes elements of rap and pop to create a lively, slightly mischievous hip-hop sound. Proving the duo’s creative depth, She’s Got A Lion is undoubtedly their best yet, as they artfully meld together aspects of different music genres to create a unique, playful track which is sure to stick in your head.

Shrouded in mystery, the duo excel in collaborating with other artists to create their unique sound, with Ross Kerr, Hannah Taylor and King Ky0te all providing vocals in the past. She’s Got A Lion is no exception, and includes vocals from Pete Skeen, drumming from Dave McKeague and rapping from Dogman, yet it’s the inclusion of flautist Alex Saxon which really makes the song. His brief yet vibrant flute interlude adds a compelling and unique layer to the song which really rounds it off as Cache-Cache’s finest offering. Don’t miss out on watching the music video either – reminiscent of The Mighty Boosh, it really does compliment the unique flavour of this track.

Cache-Cache release She’s Got A Lion on 15th May www.cachecache.band

Ceiling Demons by Nick Wesson

MUSIC

CEILING DEMONS RELEASE NEW SINGLE, ILLUSIONS

Words: Mark Corcoran-Lettice

Since the release of their debut album Nil in 2017, Richmond alternative hip-hop collective Ceiling Demons have primarily focused on their thrilling, cathartic live show as well as their involvement in music promotions and mixed media events, including the Alleviation event last December which combined live performances with therapeutic workshops run in association with Caleidoscope Counselling Services.

However, there’s now some more studio work from the group seeing the light of day. Released earlier this year as a now sold-out 7” run through Butterfly Effect’s singles club, Illusions hits online and streaming platforms and stores on 1st May. Already established as a favourite of their live shows, Illusions is as thoughtful and determined a statement as is to be expected from them.

As a soundtrack for 2020, Illusions is heard to beat: it’s a song that confronts social expectation, isolation and paranoia with a steely eye and vivid realism, but also boasts a gang-vocal chorus that opens up a necessary chink of light and optimism. If you’re familiar with Ceiling Demons, you’ll know the delights to expect here – if not, prepare to welcome into your life a group with a very special and heartfelt emotional resonance.

Ceiling Demons release Illusions on 1st May www.ceilingdemons.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT

NORTH EAST CULTURE VENUES POSTER RELEASED

Words: Claire Dupree

It’s been a funny old month so far. On the one hand, it’s pretty crappy to be unable to physically print our lovely magazine, but on the other it’s been extremely heartening to be able to see so many people engaging with our first digital-only issue.

The response to our April issue cover – which listed the names of the region’s cultural venues that have had to close due to Covid-19 – has been amazing, and we’re really pleased it’s been taken in the spirit it was intended.

Print is still very close to our hearts though, and after a few enquiries came our way we thought we’d produce a poster version of the cover so we can enjoy it close up and in physical form! So...our first bit of merch has been created! Visit our Bigcartel shop here where you can purchase a limited edition A4 print, on high quality 230gsm paper, sent direct to your door for the all inclusive price of £10. And, until we can frequent our lovely North East culture establishments again, you can enjoy looking at them on your wall instead! www.narcmagazine.bigcartel.com

ART & LIT

NORTHERN SCHOOL OF ART #WFH IMAGE CALLOUT

Words: Eugenie Johnson

In the current pandemic situation, a large proportion of people are having to adapt to a whole new way of life. Creating a space in our homes specifically designated for work has become a major step in dealing with restrictions for many of us. Through this unique shift in how we live, Hartlepool’s Northern School of Art have seen a unique opportunity to capture these unprecedented times, inspired by the ways in which people are staying connected despite being behind closed doors.

As such, they have put out a call for people to send a screenshot of what they now call their workplace via their video call screen, using the hashtag #WFH and tagging @thenorthernart in the caption or image on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. A host of cultural figures have already responded to the call including award-winning artist Narbi Price, who has contributed an image of his workspace featuring a book-lined armchair, while Wendy Smith (Prefab Sprout singer and Sage Gateshead’s Director of Creative Learning) has shown off an old 1930s chest of drawers, which she plans to paint.

The aim is to use the images contributed to create an artwork of all the faces and spaces of those working from home. It’s set to become a unique look at a community behind closed doors, and a testament to people’s resilience and adaptability. www.northernart.ac.uk

A Festival. A Parade

MUSIC

A FESTIVAL, A PARADE RELEASE SINGLE, BIG SCREEN TV

Words: Jamie Taylor

As a bit of a geek as far as fonts are concerned, I would like to begin by offering a small round of applause to Newcastle alt. rockers A Festival, A Parade for their use of a wonky comma on the front of their latest single, Big Screen TV. It’s a thing of genuine beauty and I weirdly can’t stop thinking about it.

It is thus with some excitement that I was keen to listen to this track and find out if the band could do for my ears what they have done for my eyes. I’m pleased to report a second small round of applause coming their way because, likewise, I can’t stop thinking about this single either. Big Screen TV is like a warm fuzzy scarf for the soul that wraps you up a snowy November memory and won’t let go. The legato feel of the verse skips along like a dream before pausing to tip you into a chorus of searing riffs. There’s a sense of exultation as the melodies climb then dip into a crescendo of drums that, after a neat three minutes and three seconds, had my head spinning.

It’s easy to see why the band are going places; with recent support slots alongside the likes of Sam Fender, The Cult and Suede, their sound is perfect for the big stage. As for many, it’s not quite going according to plan right now, but the guys are making the best of things by releasing a slew of new tracks over the coming months. If they’re as good as this one, the summer is suddenly looking a whole lot brighter.

A Festival, A Parade release Big Screen TV on 8th May www.soundcloud.com/afestivalaparade

FILM

TEES VALLEY SCREEN COMEDY MICROSHORTS

Words: Claire Dupree

Set up with the aim of supporting artists and companies across film, television and artist moving image industries, Tees Valley Screen is a joint endeavour between Northern Film + Media and Tees Valley Combined Authority which provides programmes, residencies, workshops and opportunities within the screen industry for those based in the region.

Keen to show support and highlight the immense filmmaking talent in the region during these difficult times, Tees Valley Screen have released six short films featuring new comedic talent which were commissioned last year. Emerging filmmakers were given a budget of £1,000 per film and offered development support from industry professionals. The resulting work showcases the talented filmmaking community in Teesside, with each film offering an irreverent, humorous and often surreal look at life in the region. James Harris’ Humans of Middlesbrough introduces us to Britain’s Hardest Poet (who gave one of his legs to Middlesbrough Borough Council, for reasons he can’t make 100% clear); YouTube sensation Demi Donnelly stars in Public Appeal, a darkly comic look at the world of influencers; Hal Branson’s DCSS takes a look at social standing and class. Other highlights include a delve into the world of hairdressing salons in 50 Shades, a musical about the perils of mansplaining and the incomparable talents of Dean Moore, who sees the world a little differently from most.

Tees Valley Screen’s comedy microshorts are available to view via their Vimeo page www.teesvalleyscreen.co.uk

Spelks

MUSIC

SPELKS RELEASE NEW SINGLE, THE HAPPY PLACES

Words: Beverley Knight

To achieve the perfect sound he imagined in his head, Jonathon Sabiston knew he had to go it alone. Previously a member of noisy North East bands Canyons, Bandoliers and Idle Hands, for his new project – entitled Spelks – Jonathon takes on guitar, drums, keys and vocal duties himself, independently writing and recording his creations in the spare room of his Newcastle flat.

Aiming for an off-the-wall yet poppy vibe, his latest single The Happy Places aims to address the difficulties of living with agoraphobia and anxiety, but touches on issues that everyone can relate to in some way. Although it may seem a dark theme, the overall message is not to lose hope and to seek contentment. Possessing an angst-ridden vibe with gently grungy and discordant melody, the chorus and its sparkling guitar lines and soaring vocal is ultimately uplifting, and positions Spelks well within the North East canon of quirky, noisy and introspective pop makers.

The Happy Places by Spelks is available now via Montgomery Records www.soundcloud.com/spelksmusic

MUSIC

HEELAPALOOZA HOUSE PARTY

Words: Claire Dupree

With the aim of showcasing some of Teesside’s most exciting emerging musicians, the all-day Heelapalooza festival is a surefire highlight of the summer festival calendar, and organisers aren’t about to let a worldwide pandemic interfere with their plans.

On Saturday 9th May they’ll be bringing Heelapalooza direct to your own home, as they stream live performances across two stages: the Facebook Live stage and the Instagram Live stage.

Artists taking part in the festival include Leeds’ alt. rockers Dead Naked Hippies, psych popsters Van Houten, local rock act Motherland, songwriting duo Komparrison, ‘Boro rapper Eyeconic, noisy math band Kkett, thoughtful pop courtesy of Mt. Misery and engaging songwriter Finn Forster among many others, plus a Q&A from alt. grrrl band VENUS.

“I really want Heelapalooza House Party to allow people to forget about the world outside at least for the day, with a typically eclectic Heelapalooza line-up ready to entertain them and create unique memories for everyone involved.” Says organiser Aaron Lythe. “I also hope that it can offer a platform for all involved to stay creative and connect with fans, new and old, at a time that is proving difficult to do so.”

Each performer will be raising money for a charity of their choice, with donation links advertised alongside their sets. Follow Heelapalooza across their social media pages on the day, where they’ll direct audiences to the artists’ pages. “It’ll be just like a real festival but instead of going to a venue you’re going to the artists Facebook or Instagram page!” www.facebook.com/heelapalooza Spelks

MUSIC

HUMAN HISTORY. RELEASES NEW SINGLE, THE LIGHT OF YOUR SOUL (FEEDS THE EARTH)

Words: Laura Doyle

When we think of history, we might think of dusty books and retrospective exhibitions. But the truth is that anything and everything can be history; your secret diary, a bank statement – even this very magazine article might end up under the scrupulous eye of a historian studying these interesting times we’re living through.

South Shields artist Robert Murray has taken it upon himself to do his own documentation under the guise of musical project Human History. (full marks for the artful inclusion of a full stop in his name). Murray has already made quite the mark on the local music scene with his work in Spies In Limbo and Prison Library, but this solo project is his chance for more introspective exploration.

Human History.’s first single Choose Your Weapon is a fine example of this – the heartbreaking indie ballad looks into the damage done by a one-sided romance, when one person has already checked out and left another behind without reason. His brand new release doesn’t shy away from personal, emotive subjects either; The Light of Your Soul (Feeds the Earth) grapples with loss when you don’t know what awaits your departed loved ones. With soft, suitably mournful vocals and a well-paced, thoughtful tempo driven by its simple piano chord progression is truly a respectful tribute. Human History. has managed to achieve an ambient, orchestral sound in a song written and recorded during this time of limitations. Adversity breeds creativity, so expect this to be a fruitful, productive period for Human History.

Human History. releases The Light of Your Soul (Feeds the Earth) on 8th May www.soundcloud.com/humanhistory

FILM

TRANSMISSIONS

Words: Claire Dupree

As lockdown continues and artists and creatives find their financial futures even more precarious than usual, the announcement of paid commissions and projects are a godsend, and new work on display is a welcome diversion for us mere mortals whose cultural passions have been stifled.

Transmissions is one such project which ticks both boxes. The online platform has been set up and funded by Gateshead’s BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art among others, and is providing commissions to artists to share their work within a DIY TV show format. Running every Thursday (kicking off on 23rd April, and repeated every Friday) via live streaming platform Twitch, a vast array of artistic practices will be on display. Artists involved include Sophie Jung, who works across text, sculpture and performance; Paris-based visual artist and poet Tarek Lakhrissi; Korean-American artist, writer and musician Johanna Hedva ponders the astrology charts of Tom Cruise and L. Ron Hubbard, among other things, alongside director Matthew Miller; musician Mykki Blanco hosts an hour of music and poetry readings; while poet CAConrad invites selected poets to read alongside them.

Transmissions is screened via Twitch every Thursday, and repeated every Friday, from 23rd April-29th May www.baltic.art

Tunnel Club

MUSIC

TUNNEL CLUB EP RELEASE

Words: Beverley Knight

The North East is home to a welcoming electronic and dance music scene, and stalwarts Graeme Stoker and Steve Key proudly play their part. They make up respected outfit Tunnel Club, fuelled by a devout love of electronic music. The pair met back in the day as part of the acid house era, and their passion for DJing drew them together. As Tunnel Club grew in stature, new audiences globally were reached through their monthly Timeless Radio Show, where listeners enjoy a cocktail of different dance music styles, all the way from the late 80s to the present day.

The duo’s eighth EP, Elevate, sees them make a return to the studio and, as always, supporting producers from the region to create three interpretations of their song. With a stark beginning, the original track is strangely therapeutic, as the song grows in its depth while maintaining a steady beat and showcasing the duo’s trademark use of different genres from across the decades. The melodic quality is still upheld in Kovert’s version, but is more majestic and cinematic in its atmosphere, before embracing a dubstep vibe; while Sonomac’s drum and bass contribution packs a punch, and holds the highest energy levels of the three. Elevate is a tempting teaser as Tunnel Club work towards their third major studio album release in 2021.

Tunnel Club release Elevate on 22nd May www.tunnelclubmusic.com