PREVIEWS

Image: Photography of Linder, 1983. Courtesy the artist

ART & LIT

LINDERISM @ HATTON GALLERY

Words: Elodie A. Roy

The Hatton Gallery is reopening its doors with a solo exhibition of works by visual artist and musician Linder Sterling. The spirit of Linderism first appeared in Thatcher’s ‘no alternative’ Britain, as Sterling started performing with Ludus and designing record sleeves for Manchester punk and post-punk acts like Buzzcocks. The retrospective at the Hatton takes us from these early punk photomontages and photographs to Sterling’s more recent forays into film and performance art.

Like feminist collage artist Barbara Kruger, Sterling borrows, juxtaposes and rearranges images found in books and glossy magazines, unlocking their latent narratives. Her work probes into the mechanisms of desire, identity and alienation in consumer culture. Linderism, a spiritual child of Dada, pop art and Situationism, has kept alive something of British pop artist Richard Hamilton’s refreshing irreverence. It is therefore fitting that the exhibition should be shown in the same building where Hamilton set up his studio in the 1950s, and busied himself deflating the bubble of post-war bourgeois bliss. Yet there is more to Linderism than a one-dimensional critique of capitalism and its poisoned glossiness. For over forty years, Sterling has been outlining a constellation of possible visions – courageously showing us that there may be alternatives.

Linderism is at Hatton Gallery from Saturday 7th November until Saturday 23rd January. www.hattongallery.org.uk

MUSIC

WAGTAIL RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM, NINE SONGS

Words: Laura Doyle

I’m starting to get really envious of those types who are able to take a terrible situation and spin some gold out of it. All I feel like I’ve done for the past six months is nap and binge bad TV shows.

The folks behind Wagtail are definitely the former: they’ve taken their experiences during lockdown and funnelled it into a new venture. Featuring members from local legends Roxy Girls, No Teeth, and SMUJ, the quartet came up with the imaginatively titled debut release Nine Songs. The record consists of (you guessed it) nine songs, all of which were written and recorded at home. But these aren’t your run-of-the-mill angsty songs about being stuck in the house 24/7; instead this group decided that if they couldn’t get out more, they’d bring new realms via experimental musical soundscapes. Fancy gunslinging your way through the Wild West? Or maybe dystopian futuristic space travel? Whatever your mood, you’ve now got nine traversive songs to take you somewhere decidedly more interesting and adventurous.

Wagtail release Nine Songs on 6th November www.wagtail.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT

OVERMORROW @ NEWBRIDGE PROJECT

Words: Claire Dupree

If you can’t start an ambitious six-month long multi-strand festival during a global pandemic then when, quite frankly, can you? With their ongoing Overmorrow festival, Gateshead’s NewBridge Project are here to remind us that the time is ripe for exploring open-minded approaches and pursuing new possibilities.

Overmorrow will run from November until April 2021, and will include a series of commissions, talks, screenings and events which will explore our collective futures. In exploring ideas around how the pandemic can help us be open to societal, political and cultural flux, Overmorrow endeavours to reimagine our futures and how we might chart a new path from the present.

“Exploring science-fiction as a tool for fictioning new possibilities, it will consider the futures we have lost and those we can still pursue. It will contemplate the public spaces of tomorrow and think about how the pandemic has highlighted the problems in society that stand between us and utopia.” They explain. “We’ll be using this within our programme to challenge the competitive structures of the art world and consider the future of art and arts organisations.” Individual events are likely to be held online, and will be confirmed on NewBridge’s website and via their social media. NewBridge Project seek to engender critical and practical discussion around a new kind of growth, with the hope of proactively and collectively shaping our future. Join in the conversation.

www.thenewbridgeproject.com

The Kids Are Alright: Janet Etuk + Carl Harrison by Jen Malarkey

STAGE

THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT ONLINE STREAM

Words: Caitlin Disken

Continuing their long-standing commitment to working in Byker, Northern Stage are once again returning to the area with their new production The Kids Are Alright. The play follows a couple dealing with the loss of a child, aiming to explore feelings of grief and loss in tandem with lightness and humour.

Created in collaboration with Encounter and Fuel, the play has been adapted from the stage to be performed outdoors at the Byker Wall Estate, something which writer and co-creator Lee Mattinson is incredibly excited about. “To reimagine the show for a community I’ve come to feel so at home in is a joy,” says Mattinson, who has worked in Byker for two years. “Not only does this new site-specific version dance the same dotted line between comedy and tragedy as the original stage production, but there’s something delicious in creating a live performance exclusively for residents on the estate.”

Whilst the live performances are for residents only, the play will be live-streamed on Facebook at 5pm on Tuesday 10th November, enabling non-residents to safely enjoy the production from their own homes.

The Kids Are Alright is livestreamed on Tuesday 10th November via Facebook, visit Fuel’s website for more info www.fueltheatre.com

MUSIC

CEITIDH MAC @ THE CLUNY 2

Words: Louise Henry

Lucky music lovers are given two opportunities to catch Ceitidh Mac perform intimate shows at The Cluny 2 this month.

Earlier this year, we asked alt. folk artist Ceitidh Mac to share her five favourite North East venues. Unsurprisingly for a cellist, whose gentle, melodic sound is most at home in fairy lit, intimate gigs, she opted for some of the region’s cosiest spots. The Cluny made the shortlist of course, a perfect place to showcase smoky vocals and gentle synths. Perfect that is, until a pandemic came along and scuppered any chances to perform live – save for a show stopping performance slot with Maximo Park on the stage of Gosforth Park’s Virgin Money Unity Arena back in summer.

Whilst it might have been a quiet year for most, Ceitidh has still managed to squeeze in a collaboration with Newcastle based producer Calm C, produce a music video for her single Rhythm, and catch the attention of BBC Radio 6 Music’s Tom Robinson. Thankfully the wait for live shows is almost over, as Ceitidh performs a matinee and evening show at The Cluny 2 on Sunday 22nd November. The balmy summer nights might be behind us, but a winter evening down in the Ouseburn in Ceitidh’s company sounds alright to me.

Ceitidh Mac plays The Cluny 2, Newcastle on Sunday 22nd November www.ceitidhmac.com

STAGE

SEX IS HARD WORK @ THE CLUNY 2

Words: Nicola Owen

A new play by Alison Stanley takes to the Cluny 2 stage from Thursday 12th-Saturday 14th November showing what life is really like for a Tyneside sex worker. Sex Is Hard Work is based on the book of the same name and it’s purportedly a tale so outrageous it will turn people’s views on the trade forever.

Sex work as a career choice might be difficult to understand given the societal taboo which still exists and the sometimes risky and dangerous nature of the work, however Stanley promises that the show will look on the lighter side, explaining: “When other girls were buying crack and heroin, she was buying property. She’s hilarious. And some of the stories and her experiences will have people on their feet and their bellies aching with laughter.”

Of course no individual experience of this complicated line of work will ever be the same, so it will be interesting to see if Stanley’s character manages to follow the Pretty Woman and Secret Diary Of A Call Girl narratives to give us an entertaining and uplifting behind the scenes tour.

Stanley’s opinion is clear: “The play is about empowering women. As an occupation, sex work isn’t often associated with ‘girl power.’”

Sex Is Hard Work is performed at The Cluny 2, Newcastle from Thursday 12th-Saturday 14th November www.facebook.com/sexishardwork

Nel Unlit by Amelia Read

MUSIC

NEL UNLIT RELEASE NEW SINGLE, TRUE THINGS

Words: Jonathan Coll

Nel Unlit are a collection of artists, songwriters and storytellers from across the North East. They’ve been responsible for some of the most ambitious projects seen in the region, culminating in an acclaimed folk opera based on Neil Gaiman’s Sandman series, which was co-produced by Peter Brewis of Field Music.

The Middlesbrough-based band release the final track and a new video from Wake From The Dreaming this month. True Things leans heavily into narrative and storytelling, accompanied by a fantastic acoustic instrumental. This comes as little surprise, as a musical collective Nel Unlit have always been fantastic at placing the listener firmly at the heart of the picture they’re painting. The enchanting animated video which accompanies the single displays the band’s love of storytelling and adventure and was created alongside artist, illustrator and puppet maker Deborah Snell. The song is a pivotal release for Nel Unlit, as the band’s Jon Horner explains. “True Things was the first song we worked on together. We grew and learnt who we were as a group whilst working on it. We have developed a parental affection for True Things and felt it should have its moment.”

B-sides for the release feature a collaboration with North Yorkshire’s alt. rappers Ceiling Demons, who contribute a glitchy lo-fi remix of The Inn: Part 1. In reciprocation, Nel Unlit’s remix of Ceiling Demons’ track The Rose is a beautifully stripped back affair.

Nel Unlit release True Things on 6th November www.nelunlit.com

COMEDY

STEVE DAY/DAVE TWENTYMAN @ THE FORUM

Words: Nicola Owen

The Forum in Darlington hosts funnymen Steve Day and Dave Twentyman on Saturday 7th November, serving comedy bangers for those of you looking for an alternative to standing in front of a massive fire in a wet field and dodging stray rockets (if that’s even a thing this year, who knows?!)

Steve Day describes himself as Britain’s only deaf comedian, and if there are any others then he hasn’t heard. Steve has been described as ‘warm and witty’ by the Scotsman and has received many other rave reviews whilst performing shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Chortle gave him five stars in 2007 for Deafy’s Island Discs, which won acclaim for its moving humour.

Quick-witted banter merchant Dave Twentyman survived a childhood in St Helens by evolving startlingly-bright patter. He puts a big smile on everyone’s face and his chatty, cheeky style endears him to the toughest crowd. Dave talks a lot about the subjects closer to home, such as family life and friends. It’s light-hearted, positive fun that you just can’t help relating to.

Plus, it’s a cheap night out at only £10 for an hour of laughs so take a face mask and your favourite human and take a walk on the funny side of the street.

Steve Day and Dave Twentyman perform at The Forum, Darlington on Saturday 7th November www.hilaritybites.co.uk

MUSIC

HIVEMIND @ TYNE BANK BREWERY

Words: Laura Doyle

As the region’s live music scene begins to get back on its feet, let’s take a moment to remember what life was like before a global pandemic – specifically for Sunderland’s noisy rockers Hivemind.

2019 was a great year for them; successful singles, festival appearances and becoming a mainstay on the local music circuit took a lot of hard work. This paid off with a sold out headline show at the Head of Steam at the start of the year – you know, before everything went to hell. And truly, it’s what they deserve – Hivemind are one of the most captivating live bands on the scene today, and seeing them back on stage is truly the best smidgen of a return to normalcy that we crave. Their outing at Tyne Bank Brewery on Friday 6th November will also mark the first live performance of latest single Medicine, a track jam-packed with their trademark philosophyinfused melodic guitar rock.

This gig will also be the first outing for their support, alt. rock five-piece Abnorm, whose debut single Citrus hit the digital shelves just two months ago. And really, what is better than not just supporting live music, but also supporting our region’s most baby-faced bands?

Hivemind and Abnorm play Tyne Bank Brewery, Newcastle on Friday 6th November www.twitter.com/hivemind_uk

Real Terms

MUSIC

REAL TERMS RELEASE NEW EP, CGC

Words: Beverley Knight

Cited as a constant reminder of parties gone by, referencing the styles of acid house and Belgian New Beat of the late 80s, Real Terms’ EP CGC does not identify as a record for the masses packed together on the euphoric, sticky floors of a nightclub.

The third release from electronic outfit Real Terms on Soft Verse Label is their baby from a summer of isolated thoughts in our unusual and odd world. These thoughts transcended into tales, and those tales into music, and now we find ourselves with a sombre story of grave change and uncomfortableness conceived in the centre of Jesmond.

“Blatant, dulcet and shrouded in existential thought – this emotional pandemic is wrapped into techno form.” Lewis Thompson himself explains. Slickly produced, the distorted voice throughout wraps up each track with the notion that it was hard to recognise the truth during these stark times of the last seven months. Industrial opener There Won’t Be Another gives a vision of dripping pipes in an echoing corridor and an unnerving feeling of being trapped. A Flood Devours England possesses a rave beat and Underworld influences, and New 2020 goes further back into the past with its German retro effects. Not the easiest listen, but bloody brilliant.

Real Terms release CGC EP in early November www.real-terms.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT

RED + GREEN = YELLOW @ NEWBRIDGE PROJECT

Words: Helen Redfern

An experimental exhibition exploring visual communication through imagination, abstraction and making, Red + Green = Yellow opens on Monday 2nd November at the NewBridge Project, Gateshead.

This active and vibrant artist-led community has selected five creatives to take part in this artistic process: James Ellis, geometric abstract painter Theresa Poulton, visual artist Catriona Beckett, experimental sculptor Eveleigh-Evans and Abi Freckleton, who uses sculpture, moving image and performance. Each artist will present one existing work, which will be photographed. This photograph will then Real Terms be given to one of the other artists in the exhibition without any other information. The five artists will then be commissioned to make one new work as a visual response to what they see in the photograph.

The immediate reactions and responses to the photographs when they are presented to the selected artists are of particular interest. A series of questions developed by the Programme Committee will prompt the artist to examine the significance of the photo in relation to their own practice. While considering the neural and artistic processes that will take place when developing the commissioned work, Red + Green = Yellow will examine what role the environment around each of the artists has played in the production of their work.

As a part of NewBridge’s Overmorrow programme, a series of workshops and events exploring the common and diverse responses to new information and visual cues will take place during the exhibition, featuring a diverse range of voices from artists and scientists who explore vision and perception within their fields of practice.

Red + Green = Yellow is at NewBridge Project, Gateshead from Monday 2nd November until January 2021 www.thenewbridgeproject.com

Jazz Singer, Reflection, 61x61, 2018 by Robert Andler-Lipski

ART & LIT

ROBERT ANDLER-LIPSKI @ FREDERICK STREET GALLERY

Words: Damian Robinson

The upcoming exhibition at Sunderland’s Frederick Street Gallery by South Shields-based visual artist and designer Robert Andler-Lipski is formed out of an overriding desire to surprise his audience by inverting the surroundings we often take for granted. Just as you might look twice at home decorations made from earthly materials like, say, sea shells, For Your Eyes Only sets everyday objects and designs into a new environmental context, inviting us to stop and notice the things we take for granted.

Perhaps pop-art at its heart, Andler-Lipski’s work is often viewed as an ability to take a wide range of common materials and blend them into figurative subjects with abstract forms. Resulting in the creation of complex and chaotic harmony, what Andler-Lipski’s work often demonstrates is that art does not have to be obvious or immediately identifiable; in fact, often its real beauty is in the moments where it helps us to realise that we’ve been looking at things all of our lives, but never really seen them. Trying to find harmony and the truth inside of abstract-ism, For Your Eyes Only is an opportunity to stop for a moment and pay attention.

Robert Andler-Lipski’s exhibition is at Frederick Street Gallery in The Bridges, Sunderland from Wednesday 4th-Monday 30th November www.frederickstreetgallery.com

MUSIC

SAGE GATESHEAD ANNOUNCE MORE LIVE SHOWS

Words: Claire Dupree

Last month Sage Gateshead announced the return of live performance to their shiny venue, with a series of concerts designed to show off what the venue do best. Taking place in Hall One to allow for plenty of space, classical and contemporary sounds will once again emanate from their stage. Friday nights are given over to Royal Northern Sinfonia, who will dazzle with their virtuoso playing and stunning arrangements of familiar and more unusual pieces.

Saturday nights will welcome contemporary musicians. Avant-garde wonder Richard Dawson, ably assisted by sublime folk songwriter Yakka Doon, will perform on Saturday 31st October, while Saturday 7th November will see recent Mercury-nominated epic indie band Lanterns on the Lake perform what’s certain to be a programme highlight, with support from the inimitable Martha Hill.

Newly announced are a couple of a rare shows from near and far; British-Bahraini trumpet player Yazz Ahmed plays the venue on Saturday 14th November, when her album Polyhymnia will be performed in its entirety by a 12-piece ensemble, and support is provided by alt. jazz rockers Archipelago. On Saturday 28th November electronic artist Joe Snape supports a unique performance from RNS Moves, an inclusive ensemble of disabled and non-disabled musicians. Later in the season, everyone’s favourite Mackem harmonisers The Futureheads will play a special show featuring acoustic and a capella arrangements on Sunday 5th December, with a pre-concert performance from Darlington songwriter Jodie Nicholson.

www.sagegateshead.com

Image by Helen Templeton

MUSIC

ANALOGUE BLOOD RELEASE KILL THOSE BEATS EP

Words: Laura Doyle

Music without lyrics is one of those genres that, without proper due care and attention, can remain elusive. If I can’t sing along to a song, then what is the point? Well let me tell you, it may take a while to click, but when it does it’s GREAT.

Take Darlington duo Analogue Blood, for instance. Their electronic infused rock is certainly light on the lyrics, but their ability to construct and carefully formulate a track using the rhythm and beats and its cement is exceptional. They’ll be able to prove that in forthcoming EP Kill Those Beats – a paradoxical name if ever there was one. Lead single Insomnia captures the claustrophobic feeling of the night-time condition with heavy drum, trance-inducing wub-wubs, and a smattering of vocals from ‘unofficial’ third Chris Davidson, which act more like another musical element incorporated into the soundscape than a grounding moment.

With music like this, it’s easy to see how they secured slots at big events like Whitby Goth Weekend and Goth City Festival – their vibes are perfect. Hopefully they’ll be able to celebrate the release of Kill Those Beats in their home town – but if not I’d highly recommend getting out the LEDs and glowsticks, knocking the lights off, and giving it its due appreciation in a safe and socially distanced manner.

Analogue Blood release Kill Those Beats EP on 9th November www.facebook.com/analogueblood

Tribal Nike Airs 2016, by Sophie Lisa Beresford Smith

ART & LIT

RADGIE MAGICK/ TREASURES OF REDCAR @ THE AUXILIARY/THE PALACE HUB

Words: Claire Dupree

Creativity comes in all forms, and some people are gifted with an abundance of it. Sophie Lisa Beresford Smith is one such individual; an artist of superlative talent whose creativity seemingly knows no bounds. Her previous work has delved into working-class culture and fashion, pairing her abstract textile clothing with EDM-fuelled performances which often take a metaphysical slant.

The artist will be premiering two new exhibitions simultaneously this month; Radgie Magick is at Middlesbrough’s Auxiliary Project Space, while Treasures of Redcar is at the town’s Palace Hub, both from Friday 13th November-Saturday 12th December.

Radgie Magick continues the artist’s preoccupation with wearable art; neon sensory appliqué, sculpture, painting and jewellery will be presided over by a stonking North East techno soundtrack and an overall tribal feel, with 3D effects fit to “blow your head off”. Treasures of Redcar showcases the town’s glorious bounty of natural treasure, transforming fossils into 24 carat gold and sterling silver jewels with splashes of vivid neon.

“I use a lot of high voltage sensory content in my work, to activate the brain in ways that excite and delight the viewer.” Sophie says of her work, going on to explain how she’s inspired by the ‘codes’ in nature. “They are LETHAL for healing and restoring ourselves, connecting to creative genius and for cleaning out the daily sensory data spew-attack of capitalist culture. We can put nature codes into the art, being nature ourselves. Ask and they shall be given.”

Sophie Lisa Beresford Smith presents Radgie Magick at The Auxiliary, Middlesbrough and Treasures of Redcar at The Palace Hub, Redcar from Friday 13th November-Saturday 12th December www.infinitecreativity.co.uk

STAGE

ABSOLUTE SOLO II @ DANCE CITY

Words: Helen Redfern

Rosie Kay Dance Company presents Absolute Solo II, a triple bill of solos including a new work created during lockdown, performed at Newcastle’s Dance City on Saturday 28th November.

It’s been 21 years since Rosie Kay’s first ever solo show Absolute Solo, and five years since she last appeared on stage herself; now the renowned UK choreographer is back with much to say about the experience of being female. Part autobiography, part socio-anthropological study, this triple bill examines Kay’s personal experience as a female in dance. Using ideas of performance, identity, sex and gender, she explores her newfound dancing spirit.

Alongside Kay’s new work Absolute Solo II, this insightful and inspiring triple bill includes an archive film Patisserie (1999) and Kay’s first public performance of Artemis Clown. How long has it been since we saw live dance performance? This will not be the same as before – nothing ever will – but it will be live, and it will be amazing. The real magic is in being there in the space, witnessing live performance, but if you can’t be there, the triple bill will also be live streamed to audiences at home.

Rosie Kay’s Absolute Solo II is at Dance City, Newcastle on Saturday 28th November www.dancecity.co.uk

Zarahruth, who has written a new song for the Darling Tunes compilation

EVENTS

IT’S ALL HAPPENING HERE @ CORNERSTONE ARTS

Words: Claire Dupree

Poetry, short stories, music and art installations will celebrate the creativity of Darlington in a weekend-long event at Cornerstone Arts. It’s All Happening Here is the brainchild of Darlo-based theatre company ODDMANOUT, and will take place from Thursday 5th-Saturday 7th November at the town’s newest arts hub.

Devised before the pandemic, and since adapted to allow for home-based participation and social distancing, a community call-out in the Spring saw artist-led activities take place in preparation for the weekend. Creations of sculpture, new writing, music, spoken word and live performance will go on display, with particular highlights coming from some of the town’s arty residents. Actor and writer Steve Byron’s contribution, If Walls Could Talk, will see members of the Foundry group perform six short stories based around the idea of what the buildings of Darlington would say if they could talk; Gary Kitching’s epic poem about the town will be performed as a sound installation; songwriter Katie Doherty worked alongside members of the community to write a new song; there’s more musical delights courtesy of Darlington collective Tracks, who curate an album of music by local artists cannily titled Darling Tunes, which also features new compositions from Zarahruth and Jodie Nicholson – both of whom will be performing over the weekend. ODDMANOUT associate artist Christina Berriman will perform a live installation inspired by letters she received introducing her to Darlington, and there’s much more besides. O

DDMANOUT’s Katy Weir summarises the project: “We wanted to make something which offered lots of different levels of participation so people could come into and get involved with the project in a manner which suited them. The response has been really lovely – and I think demonstrates that need for connection and creative expression.”

It’s All Happening Here takes place at Cornerstone Arts, Darlington from Thursday 5th-Saturday 7th November www.facebook.com/oddmanouttheatre

MUSIC

MEIOSIS RELEASES NEW ALBUM, BE NICE TO EVERYONE

Words: Jonathan Coll

Since 1999 Meiosis has represented the musical output of Martin Thompson, who has been the band’s one consistent member throughout all eight of its full length releases. The forthcoming project, Be Nice To Everyone, was recorded with Simon Chester and Ray Tsai, and will be released on 16th November. Martin himself is well regarded in the Newcastle musical scene, both as a promoter and a purveyor of ‘wonky pop’; perhaps the most apt description of their eclectic sound.

Mannequins was the maiden single from the LP, which arrived shortly before the album preview livestream at the end of September. The online only show to celebrate the launch of the album featured stripped back versions of the tracks, which are a range of fabulously varied compositions. Tracks such as Where Would I Be Without My Gaydar certainly have a lot going on, and the album doesn’t really fit snugly within any particular musical category. Let’s Stay Apart is a particular highlight, with earnest vocals being carried by a dramatic, foreboding instrumental. The album is a collection of interesting tracks addressing fascinating topics, and is certain to hit the right notes with the band’s dedicated following.

Meiosis release Be Nice To Everyone on 16th November www.musicbymeiosis.com

MUSIC

WOOLCRAFT RELEASE NEW EP, TRENCH ART LOL

Words: Robert Nichols

Trench Art LOL is the latest and possibly last release from Teesside one-man left-field alt. pop provider Michael Baines under his Woolcraft moniker. Breaking out of lockdown from his Stockton analogue HQ, the one time Spit The Pips, Retardot and now Werbeniuk music meister has been responsible for six different albums over the past 15 years which have spanned musical genres but always bear the triple stripes of invention, accessibility and quality.

How typical of a man that makes music so hard to pigeonhole that he should make the final Woolcraft production one of those in between album and EP seven song affairs. Setting sail with the intriguingly named Rakkaudella Kuu, apparently Finnish for a moon worshipper, it is a tender and melodic attempt to calm the waxing and waning tidal swings of a werewolf. It segues straight into the hard hitting buzzsaw liberty-stripping two tone-esque of For The Workington Man.

Left-field, maybe, but Trench Art LOL is an instant hit personified by the calypso cover of Canadian maverick maestro Tom Holliston’s Show Business Giants’ stationery love song, Acres of Paper.

Woolcraft release Trench Art LOL on 2nd November www.woolcraft.bandcamp.com

MUSIC

A WHALE IN THE FOREST RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM, MACHINE NATURE

Words: Jonathan Horner

“Turn the light off, shut your eyes and listen to the things that go buzz in the night…” This is the deal A Whale In The Forest offers and boy do they deliver! The North East experimental artist’s debut album swings from semi to completely atonal soundscapes. A restless record of dynamic swells that are gone before they, or you, settle in.

Sporadic, intermittent beats erupt and then vanish amongst the desolation like a geyser in the Icelandic bleakness. When we finally get some melody, as in the chordal bass of Repetition Compulsion or stumbling piano of Progressive Regression it is dissonantly sub-melodic and tormentingly brief; a gulp of air before we lapse back into familiarly alien environments. AWHITF is fond of wordplay and uses the bastardisation of familiar phrases to deepen the sense of disorientation. As in the spoken word in Early Mo(U)rning it is proclaimed that “They say sticks and stones may break our bones but now the roles are reversing,” Thus begins the dark industrial clicking and swooping of Bones May Break Our Sticks N’ Stones. Those hoping for a sneaky Specials cover in Concrete Jungle should prepare themselves for a more literal interpretation of the paradoxical phrase. In fact, while we’re preparing ourselves for the

unknown, prepare for anything and everything from Machine Nature!

A Whale In The Forest releases Machine Nature on 13th November www.awhaleintheforest.bandcamp.com

MUSIC

PEACE BURIAL AT SEA RELEASE A SLOW MUSIC ATTACK (PT. 1)

Words: James Hattersley

When there’s no room left in hell, the dead will walk among us. It must be pretty packed down there as Hexham’s Peace Burial At Sea have reanimated and are now wandering the North East scene again, redelivering their distinct brand of alternative rock – a concoction of post-rock, post-hardcore and a dash of electronic.

Following on from their 2006 self-titled album, Peace Burial At Sea will be steadily releasing a series of songs, starting with the aptly titled A Slow Attack (Pt.1). These songs have been a decade in the making; having been written and partially recorded throughout the years. Fans of the band’s previous work will delight in the return of atmospheric, doom inducing, ferocious yet fragile B-Movie themed romps. Nevertheless, there is still something fresh and necessary that will entice new fans to discover and fall for their special take on the genre.

A Slow Attack (Pt.1) rides the extremely narrow line of triumph and utter defeat. The band have created a world of incredible bleakness that is surrounded by a gentle warmth. One that you can’t help becoming enthralled in.

Peace Burial At Sea release A Slow Attack (Pt.1) on 30th October www.peaceburialatsea.bandcamp.com

Rachael McShane & The Cartographers by Elly Lucas

MUSIC

RACHAEL MCSHANE & THE CARTOGRAPHERS @ THE GLOBE

Words: James Hattersley

Multi-instrumentalist Rachael McShane is bringing her delightfully whimsical folk sensibilities to Newcastle’s The Globe on Friday 20th November. Backed by new band the Cartographers, the group will delve into their unique brand of reworked traditional folk, that promises to dazzle not only a limited seated audience, but a livestream too. This means you can enjoy the show from the comfort of your home; sprawled in front of a log fuelled fire and sipping on a pumpkin spiced latte, if you so wish.

Coming off the back of the well-received solo effort, 2018’s When All is Still, McShane is best known as one of the original members of the mighty contemporary folk band Bellowhead. However, with the fantastic Matthew Ord and Julian Sutton providing a strong foundation, McShane will distil audiences with wonder and a life affirming joy. Her brand of folk is decadent yet airy; enticing you before immersing you. She paints a stunning tapestry of yesteryears, when things were a little simpler. Truly a lover of the genre, yet McShane completely makes it her own.

Rachael McShane & The Cartographers play The Globe, Newcastle on Friday 20th November www.rachaelmcshane.co.uk

MUSIC

EVE CONWAY @ THE GEORGIAN THEATRE

Words: Louise Henry

Darlington’s Eve Conway returns with a gorgeous new single, and live show at Stockton’s Georgian Theatre on Friday 6th November.

Singer-songwriter Eve Conway has spent much of lockdown sat in a cupboard under a duvet, and given the circumstances, I can’t say I blame her. But whilst most of us have been burying our heads, bemoaning the collapse of life as we know it, Eve wrote and recorded a new single, and it’s a good one at that.

Crucified By Hurricanes has been a long time in the making and came together over video calls in the aforementioned cupboard with the support of Cattle & Cane producer Paddy Jordan. “I still to this day haven’t met Paddy in person,” she says, crediting him for his patience during the process.

In her own words, she might not be “skilled at music tech”, but Eve knows how to write a ballad. The meaning behind the track, she muses “is giving up on a situation, but leaving a piece of yourself there”. It’s anthemic and a song to be performed live and sung along to with an arm slung around a mate’s shoulder, so it’s just as well that you can nab tickets to see her on Friday 6th November for a socially distanced show at The Georgian Theatre in Stockton. Just, you know, without the singing or the touching.

Eve Conway launches Crucified By Hurricanes at The Georgian Theatre, Stockton on Friday 6th November www.facebook.com/eveconwaymusic

Eve Conway by Rob Irish

MUSIC

ABBIE FINN TRIO RELEASE NEW ALBUM, NORTHERN PERSPECTIVE

Words: Jonathan Coll

Abbie Finn Trio present Northern Perspective, the forthcoming album produced alongside fellow Leeds College of Music alumnus saxophonist Harry Keeble and bass player Paul Grainger.

Abbie’s own musical CV is particularly impressive, with a first class degree in music preceding spells at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and a run performing on London’s West End in Night School. Such a wealth of experience is reflected in Abbie’s approach to composition, and the album features songs recorded in July 2020, after the current pandemic had curtailed their performances at jazz festivals across the country.

Abbie provides the percussion for some genuinely excellent music. The album is one that jazz aficionados ought to love, with the saxophone work of Harry Keeble being excellent from the initial notes of opening track Walkabout. The quality is consistent throughout, culminating in Umlazi Morning, an enjoyable jaunt of a track.

It’s no real surprise that three musicians of such esteem should produce such an enjoyable album, but as someone with a fairly limited knowledge of jazz, this was a pleasant discovery. If you’re similarly unaccustomed to jazz music, Abbie Finn Trio may well be the band that changes that.

Abbie Finn Trio release Northern Perspective is released on 29th October when they’ll perform at Prohibition Cabaret Bar, Newcastle. They also play The Globe, Newcastle on Sunday 22nd November www.abbiefinn.com

MUSIC

#WEMAKEEVENTS GIGS @ TYNE BANK BREWERY

Words: Claire Dupree

At a time when local restrictions make gig attendance more like a game of musical chairs than a social engagement, venues and promoters alike are being constantly challenged to find new ways of attracting their audience.

Tyne Bank Brewery’s spate of live shows have been providing a much-needed lifeline for professional musicians and music-hungry audiences, and this month they unveil a week-long series of shows which they hope will further support those in the regional industry.

Their #WeMakeEvents shows kick off on Monday 30th November, with each night curated by local promoters. The first show, presented by Wipe Out Publishing, will feature stripped-back sets from some of Tyneside’s most loved songwriters including Holy Moly & The Crackers, Hector Gannet and Rob Heron. Wednesday 2nd December sees promoters Kaleidoscope bring alt. pop quintet Shields to the venue alongside some special guests; while on Friday 4th December Little Buildings programme a noisy show which sees Newcastle-by-way-of-Brighton’s alt. rockers Demob Happy return to the region, with support from noise popsters Sick Joy. More shows are to be confirmed.

“We are trying to support those that have received little to no support since March. Each organisation that is involved relies heavily on live music to survive, so it’s a way of directly funding them. We will be live streaming some of the shows to reach a bigger audience and provide further relief for North East businesses/ freelancers.” Says the venue’s Cole Gilroy, who hopes the gigs have a lasting legacy. “The hope is that other cities follow suit and remind people that we are still here, still kicking and while it’s not a viable long term solution, it’s a chance to see artists in a small venue and will hopefully get others involved.”

www.tynebankbrewery.co.uk

MUSIC

SALT HOUSE LAVISH RELEASES NEW EP

Words: Jonathan Horner

90’s rock musician to electronic music producer is a well-trodden path and for good reason; those rock hooks translate into bleeps and bloops so smoothly. Andrew Laverick is the latest to wander this yellow brick road with his new project, Salt House Lavish. He started out playing guitar and bass in bands in the 90’s, including stints in Filo Bedo, The Lazybirds and Boulevard Lounge to name a few. Eventually finding a love for the studio, it was a direction he would come to a full stop with.

As is often the case with veteran musicians, life has a nasty habit getting in the way. Laverick is not immune to this and an almost career fatal carpal/RSI issue paused proceedings. However, through sheer force of will, getting back to basics with frequenting open mic nights and talking to some up and coming young artists, Salt House Lavish was born.

Collaboration is a large part of his identity and the last year saw him work with both Thought Trumpet and To Kill a Nation. This current release, entitled performance cancelled, is a few pieces that tie together 2020’s output which is full of his combination of real world sound manipulation, synthesis and electronic production which, when all folded in, create a unique soundscape which is very much Salt House Lavish.

Salt House Lavish releases performance cancelled on 13th November www.facebook.com/salthouselavishmusic

MUSIC

TWISTER RELEASE NEW ALBUM, CURSED & CORRECTED

Words: Jonathan Coll

Twister are a heavy rock four-piece representing the North East from their native Durham. Their debut album, Cursed & Corrected, will be released on 13th November, with the band looking to continue the momentum they had built prior to the pandemic. Having recently released singles 64 White Lines and Call To Arms, they’ll be bringing their signature catchy hooks and energetic vocals to their debut album. Their live performances have earned rave reviews, supporting the likes of Papa Roach, Simple Minds and Texas, as well as selling out the O2 Academy 2 on their own headline tour.

The forthcoming album shows Twister at their absolute best. Their impressive range of sounds is evident from outset, with the punchy, atmospheric Intro preceding the anthemic, pop rock of Feeding Frenzy. The band showcase Twister by Adam Kennedy their signature heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals on Fist Fight By The Waterside, with the album’s highlight coming in the form of the euphoric, uplifting track Trees. Twister have rolled many of the better elements of classic British rock into an album that sounds modern and fresh. It’s incredibly well produced, and carries an infectious energy that is certain to brighten the region’s music industry while it remains locked down.

Twister release Cursed & Corrected on 13th November www.officialtwister.co.uk