NARC. #199 October 2023

MXYM

TWISTERELLA

LUKE ROYALTY

DURHAM BOOK FESTIVAL

SUNDERLAND SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

28 MXYM

The week before this issue hit the shelves, BBC Introducing North East presenter Nick Roberts hosted his final show on BBC Radio Newcastle. In their infinite wisdom, the Beeb have decided to amalgamate both the North East and Tees Introducing shows into one programme designed to serve the whole region, and it’s a decision being rolled out across the entire country, with 32 regional shows going down to just 20. There are many, many reasons this is a terrible idea – not least because presenters and colleagues are competing for their jobs, but also because the very idea of regional programming is going down the toilet and this is awful for musicians.

I religiously listen(ed) to both of our region’s Introducing shows, and they offered me an insight into the music two sometimes disparate areas was producing. I discover so many artists by listening to BBC Introducing, and the shows regularly inform the content of the magazine. The stamp of authority the BBC has for artists can’t be underestimated, and the result of the decision to produce just one show for the whole of our region will mean fewer artists get that recognition, access to fans and valuable airplay. I wish I could say this was a ‘use it or lose it’ scenario, that there was something we could have done about this decision, but voices much louder than ours have gone ignored, and that’s a damn shame. So, I’d like to say thank you to Nick and his team for over 10 years of dedication to a music scene that sorely needs champions.

This issue is also dedicated to Sunderland musician and our friend Faye Fantarrow, who tragically lost her battle with cancer in August. Our thoughts are with her family and friends.

Editor

Claire Dupree info@narcmedia.com

Website

David Saunders

narcmagazineonline@gmail.com

Creative

El Roboto

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Cover Image

TJmov

Live Photography

Tracy Hyman / Idene Roozbayani / Victoria Wai

Contributors

Tom Astley / Jonathan Coll / Nat Greener / Lee Hammond / James Hattersley / Emily Ingram / Ben Lowes-Smith / Jay Moussa-Mann / Robert Nichols / Michael O’Neill / Ikenna Offor / Stephen Oliver / Niamh Poppleton / Lily Pratt / Helen Redfern / Kate Relton / Damian Robinson / Elodie A Roy / Mera Royle / Joseph Spence / Steve Spithray / Dominic Stephenson / Sarah Storer / Caitlin Thomson / Leigh Venus / Luke Waller / Robin Webb / Ali Welford / Jennifer Wilson / Cameron Wright / Matt Young

PREVIEWS

6 OCTOBER PREVIEWS

Live shows from Gengahr, Teeth of the Sea, Martin Kohlstedt, Hey Colossus, All Structures Align, The Umlauts, Howay The Lasses, VC Pines, Jesca Hoop, Get The Blessing, Fritillaries, Chiedu Oraka, The Bug Club and loads more. Plus comedy from Ria Lina at The Stand, Lucy Beaumont at various venues, Nico Yearwood at The Stand and John Robins at Gala Theatre; tonnes of great theatre shows at Northern Stage including Phantasmagoria, Mycelial, Metamorphosis and Project Dictator, Flip! at Alphabetti, The Cold Buffet at Live Theatre and Beyond Caring at various venues; plus arty goings on at Vane Gallery, Arts Centre Washington and more

Reports of live performances from Deerhoof, Johnny Marr, Ten Eighty Trees, Future Islands, Television Personalities, Dexys, Finn Forster, Devon Sproule and Generator Live festival among others

Reviews of local singles and EPs from Maius Mollis, India Arkin, Gone Tomorrow, Kerrin Tatman, Phantom Parts, Simon Taylor, ZUDZ, The Pale White, William Cawley, Charlotte Forman, Pit Pony and Ernie

50 DEMOS

Featuring Breakaway NE, Logan Jai, Seventh Heaven, Jake Major and Damian Mills

51 ALBUMS

Featuring new releases from Smoove & Turrell, Gazelle Twin, Cafe Magrana, John Pope Quintet, The Gaslight Anthem, Vanishing Twin, Mary Lattimore, Gotts Street Park, GOAT, Holly Humberstone, CMAT and more

54 MIXTAPE

Michael Luke from Tees Valley International Film Festival picks some of his favourite tunes

Next Issue Out 1st November

Claire Dupree talks to avant-garde music maker MXYM about their debut EP, the vulnerabilities of being an honest artist, and the drive to live with purpose

MUSIC PREVIEWS

OCTOBER’S DIVERSIONS INCLUDE INTERNATIONAL FILM SCREENINGS, THOUGHT-PROVOKING CABARET, SYNTH-POWERED POST-PUNK, CONTEMPORARY DANCE COLLABORATIONS AND MUCH MORE!

FILM WED 4

BFI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL 2023

Tyneside Cinema screens a selection of highlights from the BFI London Film Festival, featuring movies created by filmmakers from all around the world. Highlights include Oscar winning director Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn, Andrew Haigh’s emotional portrait of relationships All Of Us Strangers, and Baloji’s magical realist drama Omen. Runs until 15th October.

Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle www.tynesidecinema.co.uk

EVENTS

MUSIC

SAT 7

QUEER PROM

Navii Media and Sister Shack present a Queer Prom for all. With a Studio 54 theme, expect a night of cabaret performers, market stalls, crafts, raffles, vegan Pick ‘n’ Mix station, sensory toys and calming activities from The Midnight Commune, plus a mini Bend & Shake to end the evening.

Tyne Bank Brewery, Newcastle www.linktr.ee/sistershack

SAT 7 NATION OF LANGUAGE

New York outfit Nation of Language have attracted increasing attention thanks to their danceable new wave and post-punk sound. Expect Kraut-punk grooves, bouncing basslines and a distinct shoegaze influence to their synth-powered sound. Support comes from excitable glam goth group Walt Disco. Boiler Shop, Newcastle www.nationoflanguage.com

MUSIC SAT 7

KUCHU CABARET

An intimate night of performance in solidarity with the Ugandan Kuchu people, who face a new law criminalising homosexuality, with all money going to the Ugandan LGBTQ+ emergency fund. Performers include Beccy Owen with Hush Club, providing an improvised, durational, sound healing treat and Blossom Offering’s Queer multi-artform collaboration exploring poetry, sound and movement.

Claypath Deli, Durham www.tinyurl.com/kuchucabaret

SUN 8

BROWN HORSE

Although incongruously named, Norwich’s Brown Horse make a sublime sound indeed. Taking influence from artists like Uncle Tupelo, Big Thief and Lucinda Williams, the six-piece mix guitar-driven 90s alt. rock with the folk and country sounds of the 70s, resulting in sweet guitar solos and heartbreaking songcraft.

The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle www.brownhorse.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT SUN 8

100 PEOPLE

An exhibition which brings together many personal items to create an eclectic portrait that represents the diversity of people who inhabit the neighbourhood of Shieldfield, seeking to co-create a complicated and multi-voiced portrait of place, touching on the neighbourhood’s past, present and imagined futures. Runs until 24th November, with a film screening also taking place at Star & Shadow Cinema on 1st November.

Shieldfield Art Works, Newcastle

www.saw-newcastle.org

ART & LIT WED 11

SCIENCE BY LUXMURALIS

Artistic collaborators Luxmuralis present their new installation, Science, at Durham Cathedral. Dazzling light projections of elements, DNA and the great scientists of history with fuse with immersive soundscapes, examining the link between science and religion, and exploring the wisdom and beauty of both. Runs until 15th October.

Durham Cathedral

www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Samara

Image by Dominik Friess

COMEDY

EVENTS FRI 20 BEHIND THE CABARET CURTAIN

Local band The Jam Buddies present a fun multi-artform evening of music, comedy, dancing and more. Expect doom rock theatrics from Brass Eyed Dragons, a comedy sketch from learning disability theatre company Full Circle, DJ Gav and The Megatron are on compere duties and the night is rounded off with dancing and DJing from the ARCtic Piranha club night. ARC, Stockton www.arconline.co.uk

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NARC. E-ZINE

The place to be for multimedia diversions, the 10th edition of our E-ZINE is online now, featuring exclusive videos, playlists, mini-documentaries, sound clips and much more

COMEDY THUR 12 STEPHEN K AMOS

Attempting to “find the funny” in the events of the last couple of years is a daunting feat, yet comedian Stephen K Amos’ new show, Oxymoron, attempts to find the joy in sadness, the wisdom of fools and the opportunity in the crisis.

The Witham, Barnard Castle www.stephenkamos.com

MUSIC FRI 13

THE JOY HOTEL

Glaswegian alt. rockers The Joy Hotel’s idiosyncratic sound fuses their love of unusual harmonies, old country music and the cinematic arrangements of psych and desert rock classics with the timeless melodies of sixties and seventies pop. Expect a genre-bending and dynamic live act whose distinct playing style has earned them rave reviews. If you can’t make the Newcastle date, they’re playing Twisterella festival in Middlesbrough the following day.

The Cluny 2, Newcastle www.facebook.com/thejoyhotelband

MUSIC SAT 14 ALOKA

Club night Cassini focuses on underground dance music, spanning electro, breakbeat and UK bass. Their October event marks the Newcastle debut for forward-thinking dance artist Aloka, who has been praised for his club-fuelled style which sparkles with an emotional softness.

The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle www.linktr.ee/aloka

STAGE STAGE FRI 20 FORBIDDEN

A unique dance collaboration based on Indian contemporary dance form Kathak, Forbidden is a powerful solo work from Aditi Mangaldas who reflects on why the world is scared of female sexual desire. Underscored by a wide range of cultures from across the globe, Aditi will journey through emotions and experiences, reclaiming her desire.

Northern Stage, Newcastle www.northernstage.co.uk

MUSIC FRI 27

HARK! THE SOUND OF STORIES

Music inspired by stories and poems, interspersed with readings. The Shining Levels will play songs from their atmospheric, sublime and spooky album The Silence of The Girls, based on Pat Barker’s award-winning novel, as well as new music based on Benjamin Myers’ Cuddy. Plus there’s eerie and emotive sounds from Frankie Archer. Crown Street Library, Darlington www.tracksdarlington.co.uk

NARC. TV

Our magazine-style programme features performances and interviews with North East artists, filmed in venues across the region +

ALSO THIS MONTH…

INTERVIEW: DURHAM BOOK FESTIVAL

A variety of authors taking part in this month’s Durham Book Festival reveal more about their artistic practices, from their poetic inspirations to their favourite local idioms

INTERVIEW: ELIJAH YOUNG

North East playwright Elijah Young talks to David Saunders about his new Live Theatre production, The Cold Buffet, a dry comedy saga which explores family dynamics East’s electronic scene

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Aditi Mangaldas, image by Von Fox Promotions

MUSIC BOLD AFRICA @ COBALT STUDIOS

Words: Steve Spithray

Bold Africa is a four-day festival at Cobalt Studios, running from Thursday 12th-Sunday 15th October, that aims to traverse contemporary East African music with modern influences thrown in, so expect dub juxtaposed with traditional Taarab, ancient Bugandan drumming and techno. Live music

and workshops explore the similarities in rhythm, visual and sensory reactions to both the old and new across the four days of the festival with a wonderful mix of guests and performers.

Rapasa Otieno is a multi-instrumentalist and contemporary dancer bringing Kenyan storytelling to life in a Geordie twang. Mim Suleiman uses her East African heritage to blend traditional Taarab vibes with dub, jazz, soul and funk into a genre defying musical melee. Workshops by KUSUM will include Weku Kome (One Family), a multi-generational sound and movement session based around traditional West African folk songs followed by

Breath Flow Release the following day, a session aimed at awakening the mind through breath work, chanting and embodied movement.

Elsewhere, Nihiloxica is widely regarded as one of the most invigorating, powerful and transcendental live acts of recent times and, closing the festival is Desire Marea who have cemented themselves as a creative force to be reckoned with by embarking on their own individual sonic journey rooted in music. Bold Africa takes place at Cobalt Studios, Newcastle from Thursday 12th-Sunday 15th October.

www.cobaltstudios.co.uk

Desire Marea

STAGE FLIP! @ ALPHABETTI THEATRE

Words: Kate Relton

How does social media influence our lives? Do you believe the things you see online? Can we ever truly be ourselves in a culture where everyone is scrutinising our every move?

Following Crystal and Carleen, two friends with a hefty social media obsession, FLIP! aims to answer the questions we don’t want to ask ourselves. Exploring the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath the personas we build online, FLIP! is bitingly satirical and promises to have you questioning your own relationship with social media apps and the deceptively easy route to fame and money they offer. The latest play from critically-acclaimed writer Rachael Ofori, FLIP! begins a UK tour after

opening at Newcastle’s Alphabetti Theatre from Tuesday 10th-Saturday 28th October. With new social media platforms emerging all the time, (are you using X? Or is it Threads?) and all the associated pressure to perform, to shape your life into a brand identity, FLIP! is sure to make you think about what it is we’re all chasing online.

FLIP! will run at Alphabetti Theatre, Newcastle from Tuesday 10th–Saturday 28th October. www.alphabettitheatre.co.uk

Suede by Dean Chalkley

Jadesola Odunjo and Leah St Luce, the cast of FLIP!

MUSIC GENGAHR @ THE CLUNY

Words: Cameron Wright

With their fourth album on the horizon, indie rock band Gengahr are preparing to return to Newcastle, with a show at The Cluny on Sunday 1st October.

Gengahr’s debut album dropped in 2015. A Dream Outside was an idyllic and breezy release that combined a blissful, bubblegum tweeness to their indie sensibilities. With tight harmonies and jaunty melodies, the debut was a sweet summertime indie release that still packs a nostalgic and giddy punch.

Over the years and with each release, the band have toyed with their sound; their sophomore release leaning harder on their indie roots and third instalment, 2020’s Sanctuary, being their most dynamic release to date.

Crafting big choruses and driving hits, Gengahr have been climbing the indie ladder for almost a decade and are consistently endearing and enjoyable. Live, the band spark with a newfound energy that leaps and darts with fantastic abundance as the choruses grow bigger, the drums pound harder and each melody hits harder.

Latest album Red Sun Titans has been hailed as marking the band’s refreshed outlook, and their indie soundscapes have never been more fine-tuned and sincere. The indie heart is still intact, yet there are luscious waves of ambience which contribute to beautifully bespoke tracks, resulting in a warmth of sentimentalism and hope in each release.  Gengahr play The Cluny, Newcastle on Sunday 1st October.

www.gengahr.com

STAGE THE COLD BUFFET @ LIVE THEATRE

Words: Jennifer Wilson Butterflies. Margarine. The word ‘funky.’ Yes, these are things that make me feel terribly uncomfortable, but nothing creates a dread in me like the words ‘family get-together.’ Rising star Elijah Young has created an epic comedy that embodies this very feeling in The Cold Buffet, which is performed at Live Theatre, Newcastle from Thursday 5th-Saturday 28th October.

Set in the North East, we will attend a wake, a wedding and a birthday party with an impressive cast who have a notable array of theatre and TV credits between them.

Ellis McCarthy is played by Nick Blakely (whose theatre and TV credits include a UK theatre tour of Brideshead Revisited and ITV’s Belgravia) who over the course of five years makes tense small talk with his family in various function rooms, eating his true feelings and washing them down with, you guessed it – cold buffet. Jane Holman plays the passive-aggressive grandma (is there any other kind?), Jim Kitson plays Ellis’ dad David, with Beth Fletcher as Max and the role of Ayeesha is played by Amara Karan, who you can currently see on Netflix in sci-fi thriller, T.I.M.

The Cold Buffet is the centrepiece of Live Theatre’s 50th anniversary season and if you take pleasure in the awkward tension of others and often fantasise about cutting family ties, then this is one family get-together you might actually enjoy.

The Cold Buffet is at Live Theatre, Newcastle from Thursday 5th-Saturday 28th October. www.live.org.uk

FILM TEES VALLEY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL @ ARC

Words: Steve Spithray

Tees Valley International Film Festival returns to ARC for its second year from Wednesday 25th-Saturday 28th October, with a packed schedule of celebrity guests, gala screenings and workshops designed to help develop new actors, writers and filmmakers across Teesside and Darlington.

Celebrated local actor Mark Benton, famous for his roles in Early Doors and Northern Lights (and many more), will host the closing event, An Evening with Robson Green, which will also include the presentation of awards to winning filmmakers who have submitted their short films for inclusion in the festival. Elsewhere on the line-up, An Evening with Pete Bennett and Anthony Hutton sees the two former Big Brother winners tell all about the highs and lows of celebrity; Oscar-winning film producer David Parfitt will talk about his illustrious career while offering advice to Tees Valley creatives; and there’s a gala screening of Billingham-born Dunstan Bruce’s Chumbawamba origin story, I Get Knocked Down. Also of note is a gala screening of Ken Loach’s new film, The Old Oak, which tells of the last remaining pub in a County Durham pit village; the premiere of Teesside filmmaker Paul Suggitt’s Eddy – My Universe, which reveals the life of Mr Universe Body Building Champion Eddy Ellwood; informative discussions from Game of Thrones actor and Teesside University alumni Maria Caruna Galizia and History Boys actor Stephen Uppal, among much more.

Tees Valley International Film Festival takes place at ARC, Stockton from Wednesday 25th-Saturday 28th October.

www.tviff.co.uk

Gengahr

MUSIC BEYOND THE MOOR @ GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE

Words: Steve Spithray

Beyond The Moor returns to Gosforth Civic Theatre on Saturday 14th October for its second year, and will again showcase the best in local and national artists playing

contemporary, alternative and traditional folk and roots music across the day long festival. The line-up includes Amy Leach and Alastair Paul, Shona Newey and David Newey on the Folklub Highlights Stage plus Teatime Tunes Fiddle Band, Frankie Archer, Dan Walsh, Jordan Aikin & Quercus, Benji Kirkpatrick (formally of Bellowhead) on the main stage, while heading up the evening will be celebrated Scottish folk singer Siobhan Miller Trio and main headliner BBC Radio 2 playlisted Lauren Housley & The Northern Cowboys. The organisers are also keen to point out Beyond The Moor is a gender balanced and cross genre festival, with the

event also boasting a second stage for the first time.

Kari Macleod and Bernard Wright of Beyond the Moor said: “We were conscious that there’s a highly regarded folk and traditional music degree in Newcastle but there is currently no festival of this kind happening in the city right now. We wanted to create an opportunity for people to see some of the best and most exciting artists with the hope to inspire the next generation of musicians and audiences.”

Beyond The Moor takes place at Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle on Saturday 14th October. www.gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk

OVER 30 LIVE BANDS IN OCTOBER

Fiona Liquid & The Clique

• Failed to Ignite • Jamie

• Los Coyote Men

• Rare Breed • Gaydar

• Connection State • Last Case Scenario • Red Remedy • Pretty Velvet

• MXYM • Fashion Tips •

Face • Jonathan

Honour • Tales • Jack

Critchlow • Mr Bigfoot

Rod Picott • Kassi Valazza

Ryan Young • David Foley

• Mobius Loop • Luke Jackson

Zoe Gilby • Tony Kofi • Ubunye • Mo Scott • Milne Glendinning Band • Papa G’s Troves

Suede by Dean Chalkley

Lauren Housley

Have an Autumn less ordinary

Friday 6 October 2023

jean-michel blais Sage Two

Thursday 12 October 2023

Martin Kohlstedt Sage Two

Friday 20 October 2023

Blue Lab Beats Sage Two

Wednesday 15 November 2023

A Certain Ratio Sage Two

Thursday 16 November 2023

Gazelle Twin Sage Two

Friday 17 November 2023

Blazin’ Fiddles Sage Two

Wednesday 22 November 2023

This Is The Kit Sage Two

Friday 24 November 2023

YolanDa Brown Sage Two

MUSIC SQUID @ BOILER SHOP

Words: Cameron Wright

Although 2021 saw the debut of Squid’s sprawling and meandering Bright Green Field album, 2023 saw their phenomenal follow-up O Monolith, which arguably defines the band’s most astonishing output.

The debut stood out from its post-punk contemporaries, it shone a little brighter with ambition, ran a little slicker with execution and stamped a little harder with anger. While Bright Green Field had a reach and drive that was a marvel to observe, it still had the hallmarks of a band finding their feet; it was exciting, but incomplete.

What Squid proved on their debut was that there was a need for the market to evolve and an opening for something really exciting to take place. Enter O Monolith. Having signed to Warp Records, O Monolith is an impressive and immersive experience which tinkers with a plethora of rock formats with a giddy mania. From linear, growing, broody rock odysseys to euphoric experiments that dazzle and delight, hypnotic grooves and melodramatic storytelling, O Monolith feels like an epic of the times. The journey yanks you through a series of emotions, be it from harsh, metallic instrumentation and dense rhythmic funks, to high octane choruses.

Having created one of the most enticing rock albums of the year, they now take it on tour, dropping in at Boiler Shop, Newcastle on Sunday 22nd October, and promising a compelling sound that’s not one to miss.  Squid play Boiler Shop, Newcastle on Sunday 27th October.

www.squidband.uk

COMEDY LUCY BEAUMONT @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Cameron Wright Lucy Beaumont, who you may know as the writer and star of Meet The Richardsons, is so much more than the hysterically ditzy caricature of herself that features in the show. With over a decade of award winning material and mounting critical acclaim, Lucy Beaumont is a creative force to be reckoned with. The Northern comic has built a career on merging her astute observations with a sense of the ridiculous, absurd and bizarre.  Mixing tales of married life (she’s married to fellow comedian John Richardson), parenthood and her Hull upbringing, Lucy’s comedy is as home-grown and authentic as it is hilarious, as through  Beaumont’s performative confusion and naivety, you are expertly directed through the highs and lows of life.

The Trouble And Strife is Lucy Beaumont’s latest tour, which will be performed at Durham’s Gala Theatre on Wednesday 4th, Middlesbrough Town Hall on Wednesday 11th October and Newcastle’s Tyne Theatre & Opera House on Thursday 2nd November. Billed as the comic “letting loose and letting slip on her roller-coaster life”, this tell-all performance will peel back each of the comedian’s carefully crafted layers and let us in to Beaumont’s surrealistic world view.  Lucy Beaumont performs at Gala Theatre, Durham on Wednesday 4th, Middlesbrough Town Hall on Wednesday 11th October and Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle on Thursday 2nd November. www.lucybeaumont.co.uk

MUSIC JESCA HOOP @ THE COMMON ROOM

Words: Michael O’Neill

Even if you’re not immediately familiar with any of the prolific Jesca Hoop’s output, there’s likely a good chance you’ve heard one of her many collaborations with artists as diverse as Elbow, Stewart Copeland and Shearwater. In the 16 years since her debut Kismet set her on an interesting path, Jesca has blazed a trail as a singular and captivating artist with a brilliant auteur’s touch. It’s no surprise that her mentor, the similarly singular Tom Waits, described her as a “four-sided coin” and “an old soul, like a black pearl, a good witch or a red moon. Her music is like going swimming in a lake at night”. It’s a vivid and fitting endorsement of a truly unique and talented artist.

Her recent ninth LP, Order Of Romance, is a gloriously bold step forward, brilliantly characterised by up-front and percussiondriven production that brings her glorious voice to the fore, grounded by waves of vocal harmony, taut muted guitars and blasts of horns. The result is a hypnotic and refreshing addition to an incredible songbook that will translate brilliantly to the live realm when she performs at Newcastle’s Common Room on Friday 13th October.

www.jescahoop.com

Squid by Michelle Helena Janssen

MUSIC VC PINES @ ZEROX

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

On the back of a very warmly received set at Glastonbury, Jack Mercer – aka Violet Coloured Pines – takes his debut record, MRI, out on the road, stopping at Zerox on Tuesday 3rd October. Rich and scattershot, MRI takes cues from the likes of Beck and Unknown Mortal Orchestra, with a decidedly Anglophilic twist, rooted very much in 2023. Jack describes the record as being about “someone struggling with mental health, juggling relationships, friendships and emotions, while being a creative person”. The record’s title references Jack’s temporal lobe epilepsy, which has naturally coloured the life experiences he documents on the record, and he hopes that the record will be empowering for those struggling with neurological conditions in musical and creative spheres.

Jack has had a very busy festival season indeed, with Secret Garden Party, The Great Escape and Boardmasters, to name but three, under his belt. VC Pines’ particular brand of blue-eyed soul is unlikely to be housed in venues as intimate at Zerox for much longer, so see ‘em in this sort of sweatbox while you still can. VC Pines plays Zerox, Newcastle on Tuesday 3rd October.

www.vcpines.com

STAGE MYCELIAL @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Helen Redfern

Co-created with sex worker activists from around the world over four years, Mycelial is a

new international production from Open Clasp Theatre Company which offers a reality check on assumptions made about people involved in sex work. Performed at Northern Stage from Friday 20th-Saturday 28th October, the creative team includes writer Catrina McHugh MBE and director Laura Lindow, both well known to North East audiences. There are estimated to be more than 73,000 sex workers in the UK. More than 70% worked in healthcare, education or the voluntary sector. And yet it remains surrounded by stigma and misconceptions. When Open Clasp artistic director and writer Catrina McHugh facilitated a workshop for the North East Sex Work Forum, she was struck that the voices of sex workers were often missing from the narrative, explaining: “Mycelial aims to make space for debate and discussion. It is activism and theatre at its best, celebrating the strength and humanity of sex work activists who can’t walk by injustice.”

Mycelial features a nine-strong cast representing the diversity of its co-creators from across the UK, Ireland and Aotearoa/New Zealand, including trans women of colour, lesbian, Queer, straight and intersex people. Originally from Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau in Aotearoa/New Zealand, cast member Lexi Clare explains why this production excites her: “People tend to have strong feelings about sex work so it’s a complex topic to explore…This project feels like such a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. What is brilliant is how the script weaves together so many different stories – I think audiences might be surprised at how many moments and relationships resonate with them.”

Open Clasp’s first international and most ambitious production to date, Mycelial will also be captured on film and streamed online.

Mycelial is performed at Northern Stage, Newcastle from Friday 20th-Saturday 28th

October.

www.openclasp.org.uk

MUSIC MANDY, INDIANA @ ZEROX

Words: Matt Young

Experimental noise band Mandy, Indiana are a UK/French, Berlin-based four-piece who have tethered the harsher, more industrial sounds of their early singles and EPs from 2019 and coalesced their noises and lyrical obsessions into the much-lauded debut album i’ve seen a way, released in May this year, and they’ll bring their show to Newcastle’s Zerox on Sunday 29th October.

Live, they produce a gnarled mix of dance music beats and amplified sounds with repetitive vocals which sound simplistic, precise and distorted. Their set up is simple(ish); their sound is part NIN, art installation, samples, barked or cooed vocals and abrasive Neubauten thrashing, swimming around in an aural soup of drones. The band’s songs evoke feelings, emotions and textures rather than traditional narrative thoughts – it can be chaotic, visceral and primal. They ebb and flow and transform as each gig progresses making every live show a unique experience. Supporting the headliners are Manchester sibling duo Slap Rash, who also use their sparse electronics, thunderous bass and drums to ground themselves and project a sound far more than the humble twosome they appear to be. Amelia and Huw Lloyd are machine-like, vicious at times and unrelenting live too. It promises to be quite a sweaty, undoubtedly loud and absorbing experience all around.

Mandy, Indiana and Slap Rash play Zerox, Newcastle on Sunday 29th October.

www.mandyindiana.band

VC Pines by Alex Rorison

MUSIC

COLOSSUS @ THE LUBBER FIEND

HEY

Words: Ali Welford

This preview was supposed to be penned by NARC. stalwart Lee Fisher, only for a bout of rotten luck to land him in hospital. He’ll be fine, but we’d best hope he’s fighting fit by the time Hey Colossus visit The Lubber Fiend on Saturday 21st October – partly because a

hefty chunk of those present (myself included) will have discovered them off the back of his recommendations, and partly as I can only imagine how pissed off he’d be to miss one of his very favourite live acts.

Bands don’t come much further up Lee’s street than Hey Colossus. Currently celebrating their 20th anniversary, this ever-morphing beast – built around the twin axis of founders Joe Thompson and Robert Davis – have built a cult following with 14 studio albums, countless gigs and an amped-up yet ever-evolving sound that’s perennially tossed beneath the banner of

‘noise-rock’, for want of a better term. Theirs is an extensive catalogue, yet those seeking an entry point could do far worse than latest outing In Blood, whose dense dive into British lore and folk horror makes for one of their most eclectic yet approachable efforts to date. The best introduction, though, is simply to catch them live – and with two decades of excellence to reflect upon, this jaunt is as good a time as any to hop aboard.

Hey Colossus play The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle on Saturday 21st October.

www.heycolossus.bandcamp.com

MUSIC TEETH OF THE SEA @ THE LUBBER FIEND

Words: Ali Welford

A trio many before me have tried and failed to adequately characterise (“progressive postindustrial neo-psychedelia” anyone?), Teeth of the Sea have won serious underground heft over recent years on the strength of their boundless sound and some impressive fulllengths for Rocket Recordings. Expanded from

their score for a London Science Museum documentary on the Apollo moon landings, latest headrush Hive ought to burgeon that reputation further still – yet it’s their formidable live shows which draw the ravest reviews of all. The band’s latest visit to Newcastle – this time at The Lubber Fiend on Saturday 14th October – offers curious minds a fresh chance to experience their luminant, revelatory sonic expanse; with long-time followers no doubt itching to encounter the likes of throbbing nine-minute odyssey Megafragma in the flesh for the first time.

A hard-as-nails supporting cast sees the return

of Leeds three-piece Coded Marking, whose monotone post-punk and aggressive propulsion impressed mightily on the same stage last summer. Local twin-bassed hardcore trio Disciplinary, meanwhile are frontrunners for the coveted Best Album Title of the Year gong with debut release Porkwind. It rips pretty hard too – though not quite to the level of their volcanic, iron-fisted live onslaught. Arrive early!

Teeth of the Sea, Coded Marking and Disciplinary play The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle on Saturday 14th October.

www.teethofthesea.bandcamp.com

Image by Al Overdrive

stockton

(12-15) October 2023

Festival Pass - £27

A 4 day festival celebration of new music from Africa

MUSIC GET THE BLESSING @ GOSFORTH CIVIC

THEATRE

Words: Michael O’Neill

From the early post-punk transmissions of The Pop Group through to the decade-defining statements of Massive Attack and Portishead, Bristol has long been an incredible (and often overlooked) hotbed for boundary-pushing, genre-defying and era-defining music. Look no further than Get The Blessing, a jazz rock quartet who, coincidentally, boast two former touring members of Portishead, and are bringing their refreshingly singular sound to Gosforth Civic Theatre on Friday 20th October. The quartet initially bonded over a shared admiration of the colossal avant-garde jazz titan Ornette Coleman. Their anything-goes attitude is a brilliant continuation of the innovations brought to life by that aforementioned founder of free-jazz. Recent release Oscillation Ochre, a choice cut from upcoming eight LP Pallett is a brilliant testament to this. Led by a dextrous, pulsing double bass line, the single is a crystalline slab of quality free-jazz, with a steady and taut rhythm laying a foundation for a sea of treated keys, unorthodox guitar-led lines and a heavy dose of atmospheric horns. All in all, it makes for a terrific addition to the fledgling pantheon of quality new jazz which, given Ezra Collective’s recent Mercury Prize win, is finally starting to attract the widespread acclaim it has long been overdue.

Get The Blessing play Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle on Friday 20th October. www.gettheblessing.com

MUSIC THE UMLAUTS @ ZEROX

Words: Ali Welford

My introduction to The Umlauts came at 2021’s Manchester Psych Fest, when a hapless 90-minute line-check saw their performance delayed until after 3am. Turns out fitting nine people onto a tiny stage and getting four synths to work in unison isn’t quite as easy as some of our brilliant sound techs make it look! I left that calamitous show none-the-wiser as to how the Stroud-based collective are actually supposed to sound, yet despite everything (and granted, this isn’t the most conventional sales pitch…) I was completely enthralled. Who were this hyper-creative, multi-lingual rabble, poised to haunt the dreams of engineers up and down the land?

As it turns out, this “trans-European, multi-lingual, art-school, post-punk, techno-inspired, über-group/circus-troop/ diaeresis” (their words) seem at once like the latest in a vintage line of esoteric art pop experimentalists and an electrifying phenomenon unto themselves. Their metamorphosis is yet to be crystallised over a full studio album, but new release Slags nevertheless provides a tantalising snapshot, collecting the best of their Ü and Another Fact EPs alongside a smattering of fresh material. Certainly we should expect extraordinary things when they visit Zerox’s Shooting Gallery on Thursday 26th October – an evening which also showcases SHEIVA, an exciting, non-conformist artist whose experiences as a queer Iranian born and bred in South East London coalesce for what’s sure to be an intriguing, genredefying support slot.

The Umlauts and SHEIVA play Zerox, Newcastle on Thursday 26th October. www.theumlauts.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT GASLIT @ ARTS CENTRE WASHINGTON

Words: Mera Royle

Gaslighting is modern slang which is currently defining a large chunk of youth culture’s growing understanding of what it means to be in an unhealthy environment with someone. A term related to manipulation, power play and psychological abuse. But what is the real-life consequence to this insidious behaviour? In a thought-provoking new exhibition by The Sunderland Indie at Arts Centre Washington, this is exactly what is being explored in the works of artists, writers and activists who have experienced it.

Despite the newness of its name, the exhibition stresses how gaslighting is no new phenomenon. Featured artist and climate activist Helen Redfern, says: “I hope these works, and all the works in the exhibition, will expand the public’s understanding of what it is to be gaslit by the state, throughout history and right into the present.” Her own work draws from her personal experience of a high profile trial, in which she was unable to speak her truth before the jury. Prominently, artist Barrie West examines gaslighting historically and politically, focusing on its presence in relationships during the Second World War. The exhibition invites visitors to learn about its subtlety and vindictive nature, bringing an understanding of how gaslighting impacts individuals and society as a whole.

Gaslit is exhibited at Arts Centre Washington from Tuesday 3rd October-Saturday 11th November.

www.sunderlandculture.org.uk

Get the Blessing

MUSIC TV DEATH @ THE GEORGIAN THEATRE/ THE ENGINE ROOM

Words: Kate Relton

Following a sell-out debut in 2021, Newcastle’s TV Death are set to deliver their signature blend of dark psychedelic punk in North Shields and

Stockton this month. Ahead of the launch of their latest EP, The God, The One and The Devil, the abrasive garage rockers released lead track Village Mentality last month, before they head out on the road for a co-headline UK tour with Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something. The perfect act to share the stage with TV Death, three-piece Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something are known for drawing listeners in with their shapeshifting combination of glam rock guitar and intense dreamlike storytelling, offering fans a night of

otherworldly and kaleidoscopic sound. TV Death fans will be left hungry for more, and their shows give a taster of things to come in their upcoming EP, a multi-faceted story told through five tracks, with accompanying videos and artwork reminiscent of vintage horror movie posters.

TV Death and Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something play The Georgian Theatre, Stockton on Wednesday 18th and The Engine Room, North Shields on Thursday 19th October. www.tvdeath.com

Payal Ramchandani

Saturday 7 October, 7.30pm

Tickets £15/£12.50 concessions

Work in Progress sharing and artists Q&A

Thursday

2 November, 6pm

Tickets Free Booking required

Image by Rhiannon Banks Photography

Image: Maya Yoncali

Image: Luke Waddington

MUSIC HOWAY THE LASSES @ THE GLASSHOUSE

Words: Emily Ingram

There are scores of lockdown projects that are best left firmly in the past, but Howay The Lasses is certainly not one of them. Born in the midst of the COVID-19 chaos in 2021, this show sees singer and accordionist Annie Ball, father and daughter singer-songwriter combination Gareth and Bronwen DaviesJones, and cellist Katie Tertell bring the stories of our lesser-known regional heroines to life, with the production returning to The Glasshouse (fka Sage Gateshead) on Thursday 5th October. This group certainly doesn’t discriminate. With ballads that reveal a range of obscure perspectives, from collier to footballer, academic to engineer, Howay The Lasses is a fitting tribute to the women who built our great region. It’s sure to leave you swelling with pride (and eager to dig into your family tree to find out more about your own lasses of yore). Don’t miss it!

Howay The Lasses perform at The Glasshouse (fka Sage Gateshead) on Thursday 5th October. www.howaythelasses.com

STAGE

PROJECT DICTATOR @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Kate Relton

Totalitarianism, military coups, populism and

clowns – you’ll find them all in Project Dictator at Northern Stage on Tuesday 3rd October. While you might question how exactly you tackle such heavy themes through the medium of clowning, Project Dictator’s audiences are in good hands with award-winning theatre company Rhum + Clay.

Aiming to turn the spotlight on the realities of the world we live in, Project Dictator (Or Why Democracy is Overrated and I Don’t Miss It At All) was inspired by conversations with artists living under authoritarian regimes around the world. A razor sharp, no-holds barred interrogation of the world we live in, the production urges us to consider what part we play in the game.

Described as “beautiful and bonkers”, Project Dictator is the creation of co-artistic directors and performers Julian Spooner and Matt Wells, and promisrs to have you laughing, crying and everything in between thanks to Rhum + Clay’s acclaimed physical theatre and searing social commentary, which promise to be a memorable combination.

Project Dictator will be performed at Northern Stage, Newcastle on Tuesday 3rd October. www.rhumandclay.com

MUSIC ALL STRUCTURES ALIGN @ THE CUMBERLAND ARMS

Words: Ali Welford

A fresh outfit comprised of familiar faces, All Structures Align marks a welcome musical

reunion for Lincoln-based brothers Adam and Tim Ineson – who older readers may recall as two-thirds of cult ‘90s rockers Nub. Issued via Wrong Speed Records, last year’s twin full-lengths – Details and Drawings, and Distance and Departure – showcased a notably revised sonic framework, drawn from the weightlessness, patience and dynamic structures of post-rock as opposed to the full-blooded fuzz of their nascent works. With an extended line-up featuring seasoned stalwarts Oli Heffernan (Ivan the Tolerable) and Neil Turpin (Bilge Pump, Objections), All Structures Align make their North East debut on Saturday 28th October at The Cumberland Arms, heading a stacked bill curated by ever-reliable promoter Endless Window. Making the short trip up from Teesside, Onlooker were a favourite on the region’s punk and hardcore circuits before recruiting Will Reyment, yet the vocalist’s addition has elevated their taut, punchy and fiercely urgent garage attack to an entirely new level.

Cambridgeshire duo Self Love, meanwhile, offer short, sharp jabs of minimalist nihilism, interspersing bass and drum savagery with occasional spurts of synth melody, while Byker newcomers Zilch Patrol (who you can read all about in this issue’s interview) are on hand to open proceedings with cuts from their freshly minted eponymous album. Seeking an offbeat rock show? Look no further!

All Structures Align, Onlooker, Self Love and Zilch Patrol play The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle on Saturday 28th October.

www.allstructuresalign.bandcamp.com

Howay the Lasses

Wed 29 Nov - Sun 3 Dec 4pm - 9pm

Nightfall stargazers near & far, you’re invited on an adventure as magical as a shooting star.

A family friendly, interactive light art trail of beautiful art works, live music, performance, story-telling and magical moments this Winter in Middlesbrough’s Stewart Park.

Tickets are Adults £14.50

Children 16yrs & under £9.50

Under 2s are free but need a ticket

To purchase tickets, for event FAQs and accessibility information visit: www.nightfallfestival.co.uk

MUSIC JOSHUA BURNELL @ TOFT HOUSE/THE CUMBERLAND ARMS

Words: Lily Pratt

“A rising voice on the folk rock scene” is how Mark Radcliffe would describe the transcendental baroque pop of Joshua Burnell, a musician who beautifully combines folklore with fantasy, sci-fi and the supernatural. Bringing his new tour to both Middlesbrough’s Toft House on Saturday 21st October and Newcastle’s Cumberland Arms on Saturday 25th November, Burnell is an artist who resists creative boxes or convention, forever boasting unpredictability and musical ingenuity. His latest album, Glass Knight, is composed of hauntingly searching tracks and ballads of beauty, awash with reverb-drenched guitars, hook-filled melodies and retro synth textures. His music is exciting and his tour will be just that; accompanying Burnell on stage will be bandmates Kat Hurdley, Nathan Greaves, Ed Simpson, Oliver Whitehouse and Frances Sladen, and their performance will contain all the eclecticism and surprises of a dream. Joshua Burnell plays Toft House, Middlesbrough on Saturday 21st October, returning to the region on Saturday 25th November at The Cumberland Arms. www.joshuaburnell.co.uk

MUSIC FRITILLARIES @ CLAYPATH DELI

Words: Lily Pratt

Hailed by RnR magazine as a “thing of beauty”, Bristol-based musician Hannah Pawson is set to perform at Durham’s charming Claypath Deli on Saturday 21st October. Hannah Pawson, the folk songwriter of Fritillaries, has recently released music which ruminates on the intimacy between humanity and the earth, as well as the sinister underbelly of individuality. Her music can be considered to be a breath of fresh air and a window in a dark room, utilising the banjo, guitar and harmonium within her tracks in a way which conveys both a soft sentimentalism for folk but also a desire for originality within it. Folk Radio have even labelled her 2022 album “outstanding”, and the dreamy, searching tracks are indeed soulful evocations of peace which can be found in the darkest, or loneliest, of crevices. Receiving plaudits aplenty, Hannah is clearly a magnificent talent and a rising star in the folk world, lauded for her sublime vocals and melodic sound. Don’t miss this opportunity to see her in such an intimate setting. Fritillaries play Claypath Deli, Durham on Saturday 21st October.

www.fritillaries.bandcamp.com

COMEDY NICO YEARWOOD @ THE STAND

Words: Kate Relton

Let’s be honest, with political chaos, natural disasters and climate emergencies dominating every news headline, we’re all crying out for some light relief. Enter comedian Nico Yearwood, who brings his singular brand of award-winning, irrepressible charm to Newcastle’s Stand on Tuesday 17th October. Hitting the London comedy scene in 2009, Yearwood has made a name for himself with his laidback style winning over audiences and critics alike, and this autumn sees him heading for the North with brand new material. Exploring the quirks and complications of modern life, his latest show Flower Man will showcase his flair for hilarious anecdotes, telling stories of growing up in Barbados, and building a life in London.

Aiming to make the audience think, Flower Man promises to be as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, balancing audience roasts and scripted jokes with self-deprecating storytelling and wry observations on hot topics, from gender fluidity to body positivity.

Nico Yearwood performs at The Stand, Newcastle on Tuesday 17 October.

www.campsite.bio/neeksman

Joshua Burnell by Elly Lucas

MUSIC MARTIN KOHLSTEDT @ THE GLASSHOUSE

Words: Matt Young

On Thursday 12th October, The Glasshouse (fka Sage Gateshead) promise a ‘gig’ which will “immerse you in soundscapes where electronica merges seamlessly with analogue and acoustic, from classical piano to ambient field recordings and score design.” It sounds like a lot, but what’s most impressive is that it stems all from just one man, Martin Kohlstedt. The cutting-edge composer, pianist and producer has been pushing boundaries in electronic and instrumental music since the early 2010’s and his work spans six albums from the past decade, including his latest, Feld, released in March this year.

Kohlstedt describes his work as modular composition and his pieces never take a definitive form, evolving during live performances through improvisation. Through

this his shows interact with the audience, the space and create a changing context making each performance unique. His knack for combining inspirations and influences from fundamentally different worlds turns them into something that feels more like something living body than a processional setlist. Years of collaboration with other boundary pushing musicians and artists makes Kohlstedt unafraid to experiment in real time making for some truly exciting one-off musical events you wouldn’t want to miss on this rare visit to the UK.

Martin Kohlstedt plays The Glasshouse (fka Sage Gateshead) on Thursday 12th October. www.martinkohlstedt.com

STAGE METAMORPHOSIS @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Emily Ingram

Something monstrous is making its way to

Northern Stage this October – and no, it isn’t a kitschy Halloween pantomime. Metamorphosis is a visceral reimagining of Franz Kafka’s timeless novella, adapted for the stage by poet Lemn Sissay (author of the gut-wrenching My Name Is Why, among many other works).  This tale of transformation, alienation and perception is just as pertinent in 2023 as it was in 1915, the year of its original publication. It follows the innermost thoughts of travelling salesman Gregor Samsa, as he awakes one ordinary morning to find himself transformed into an unrecognisable creature of horror and contempt. As a production from Frantic Assembly – an award-winning company with a passion for delivering theatre to all audiences – the show promises to be an unforgettable one. For more insight into the production, join a post-show discussion on Thursday 26th.

Metamorphosis is performed at Northern Stage, Newcastle from Tuesday 24th–Saturday 28th October.

www.northernstage.co.uk

Martin Kohlstedt by J Konrad Schmidt

MUSIC CHIEDU ORAKA @ BOBIKS

Words: Nat Greener

Get ready for an electrifying night as Chiedu Oraka, aka The Black Yorkshireman, hits Bobiks on Friday 13th October. A recognisable figure in Northern rap and grime, Oraka defies genres with raw honesty and social poetry,

creating a unique style that blends intricate lyricism with pulsating beats. He offers an electrifying performance, showcasing his unmatched talent, a knack with social commentary and pushing the boundaries of Northern rap and grime as he reflects on his experiences of the Northern Black experience. Raised on North Hull Estate, Oraka’s last year has been monumental; signing with Marshall’s live booking agency, headlining shows and performing at The Great Escape Festival, he is now venturing onto his UK headline tour.

Chiedu Oraka is a Lockdown Collective

founder and, through ROOM 73, released hits like Men Behaving Badly, Flex and Darcy –which achieved three million streams and dominated Spotify’s Grime Shutdown for 300+ days. War Chant held a top spot on Music Week’s Black Music Chart.

Oraka’s vocals are powerful, and carry the essence of Northern grit, which will translate perfectly into intimate venues like Bobiks. Chiedu Oraka, plus supports AP3 and Robrez, perform at Bobiks, Newcastle on Friday 13th October.

www.linktr.ee/chieduoraka

STAGE

THE FOREST DREAM @ DANCE CITY/SEATON DELAVAL HALL

Words: Helen Redfern

The Forest Dream presents a wondrous tale inspired by the true story of The Forest Man of India, and will be performed at Dance City on Saturday 7th and Seaton Delaval Hall on Sunday 22nd October. Woven around the forest man Jadav’s relationship with the

mystical Aranyani, the Goddess of forests, this multi-dance style theatre work aims to highlight the urgency of climatic trauma that is befalling us due to selfish acts like deforestation and rampant industrialisation. Jadav invites you to be a part of his tribe and his world on one of the largest river islands in the sometimes ferocious Brahmputra river. He invites you to be a part of what he so desperately seeks. Choreographer Payal Ramchandani is a Kuchipudi dancer based in Newcastle with 27 years of experience in this South Indian classical dance form. Her work balances tradition and modernity, exploring identity, the

present and the future, evoking strong emotions and challenging audiences to look into the ramifications of their actions. As the clock ticks irreversibly, Ramchandani’s work is an urgent plea to course-correct ourselves by holding up a mirror to the current and the next generation.

If you’re inspired by and have questions about the performance, get yourself along to the informal post show talk at the Dance City event.

The Forest Dream is performed at Dance City, Newcastle on Saturday 7th and Seaton Delaval Hall on Sunday 22nd October.

www.payalramchandani.com

The Forest Dream by Tom Banks

Hatton Gallery

Matt Rugg, Anatomy V Photo by Jamie Orlando Smith © Estate of Matt Rugg.

MUSIC THE BUG CLUB @ GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE

Words: Michael O’Neill

Heading to Gosforth Civic Theatre on Thursday 19th October, the three groovy peas in a far out pod, Sam Willmett (guitar/vocals), Tilly Harris (bass/vocals) and Dan Matthew (drums) formed The Bug Club in 2016 in the little-known rock ‘n’ roll hotbed that is Caldicot, Monmouthshire, and have since blazed a trail with their witty, tight-knit and singular alt. indie sound which arrived fully-formed on 2021’s magnificent debut Pure Particles and 2022’s Green Dream in F#. Not content to rest on their laurels, the trio have wasted no time in bashing out a third collection of wonderful bangers in the form of (deep breath) Mr Anyway’s Holey Spirits Perform! One Foot In Bethlehem, a brisk 14-track onslaught of sonic kaleidoscopic glory. Interestingly, the entire album was captured in one live performance and is presented in a gloriously raw and ragged near-bootleg form, with a wonderfully muddy and hissy sound mingling with crowd noise and atmosphere. The songs are unsurprisingly rich in melody, harmony and character and truly take on a whole new world of charm and quality for being presented in such an unorthodox manner. It also serves as a solid testament to their power as a trio, with Sam and Tilly’s golden harmonies floating ethereally atop a tight-knit power-trio arrangements. The Bug Club play Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle on Thursday 19th October. www.thebugclub.bandcamp.com

ART & LIT UNLIMITED INTIMACIES @ VANE GALLERY

Words: Mera Royle

Seeing the world in new lights is arguably one of the most fascinating and beautiful purposes of art. This is the reality which is foregrounding hugely inspirational conversations on LGBTQ+ sexuality in an exhibition at Gateshead’s Vane Gallery, running from Thursday 26th October-Saturday 18th November.

Entitled Unlimited Intimacies, this is a show which confidently marks a way forward towards an open, equal society, vocalising Queer identity and visibility. In a gathering of works by UK and international artists, the exhibition uses photographic and documentary artforms to present groundbreaking perspectives, from The Knight’s Move by renowned photographer Tessa Boffin, a piece which reimagines historical and mythological figures as lesbian protagonists, to Phyllis Christopher’s pioneering and radically sensuous depiction of skin and bodily fluids. Of similar prestige is Sunil Gupta’s work, Cruising Delhi In The 80s, a film in conversation with the Indian art historian and gay rights activist Saleem Kidwai, as well as Stuart Linden Rhodes’ exploration into Queer club culture in the 1990s, in context with the HIV/AIDS pandemic and discriminatory laws paramount at the time.

With lots to see and learn, this exhibition creates a space which challenges hetero- and homo-normative notions of gender and sexuality, constructing understandings founded in love and humanity.

Unlimited Intimacies is exhibited at Vane Gallery, Gateshead from Thursday 26th October-Saturday 18th November. www.vane.org.uk

COMEDY JOHN ROBINS @ GALA THEATRE/TYNE THEATRE & OPERA HOUSE

Words: Cameron Wright

You may know John Robins as the winner of the Edinburgh Comedy awards in 2017, or from his sold out national tours. You may know him as the award winning radio host of his Channel 5 radio show with Elis James, or as the devout Queen fanatic who interviews Brian May. Or you may not know him at all. If it’s the latter, you are in for a treat, as the comedian performs at Durham’s Gala Theatre on Tuesday 10th and Newcastle’s Tyne Theatre & Opera House on Saturday 21st October. John Robins is an incredibly prolific comedian who garners rave reviews at every turn, with TV appearances on every comedy show going, he has amassed a career built on sharp, erudite routines that teeter on the verge of cathartic honesty.

His latest tour, Howl, may be his most honest show to date. As a reaction to a myriad of years piling on top of each other, Howl is billed as “not about mental health, but the show is mental health. In all it’s rage, joy, tears, anxiety and humour.”

Expect brutal honesty and openness from Robins as he tackles his struggles and strifes, the mounting and daunting list of issues that grow and grow. Turning the spotlight on his own hardships, insecurities, angers and shortcomings, it is rare to see a performer this vulnerable in their material, and he excels in his delivery of interesting, engaging and candid material.

John Robins performs at Gala Theatre, Durham on Tuesday 10th and Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle on Saturday 21st October. www.johnrobins.com

The Bug Club by Adam Whitmore

COMEDY RIA LINA @ THE STAND

Words: Cameron Wright

It’s rather shocking after her years in the industry that Riawakening is Ria Lina’s debut tour. With years performing on the circuit, Ria will have appeared on all your favourite panel shows, from Richard Osman’s House Of Game to QI, Mock The Week, Live at The Apollo and even a hosting stint on Pointless.

Coming to The Stand in Newcastle on Friday 27th October, the tour is a very open and provocative dissection of the past few years. Before becoming a comedian, Ria’s life was that of a scientist and the comic is now turning this forensic gaze towards the pandemic, as well as a collection of turning points in her life.

As a Filipino comic, Ria’s comedy addresses her experiences in the industry and in life, as well as the importance of diversity, and the need to accept and evolve. The tour tackles her divorce, her ventures into online dating, the meaning of womanhood, motherhood and femininity.

As a hugely revered comic with over two decades of award winning material, this long overdue venture into the touring lifestyle will mark as a defining moment In Ria’s ascent and is one to look out for.

Ria Lina performs at The Stand, Newcastle on Friday 27th October.

www.rialina.com

MUSIC GIGS @ THE STUDIO

Words: Steve Spithray

Manned by volunteers and commemorating its 25th year, Hartlepool’s The Studio venue has

had something of a makeover following a successful crowdfunding campaign earlier this year. The campaign, which also saw local musicians contributing gear and equipment, has meant some pretty heavy investment in the on-site recording studio which has also now been renamed The Mark Pinchen Community Studio, in memory of ‘Pino’, Studio trustee, musician and staple of the Hartlepool music scene who sadly passed way five years ago.

In celebration of the venue’s upgrades, they’ve announced a show by The Lottery Winners on Saturday 7th October, themselves still on a high after new album Anxiety Replacement Therapy saw them top the UK album chart in May. With a recently announced UK tour in November, this could also be the last chance anywhere to see the Manchester band in such an intimate venue.

Lost in the Woods also returns to The Studio on Friday 13th October with their Autumn Gathering event, presenting Mayshe Mayshe, Cosmic Egg and Black Mountain Violets with more still to be confirmed. Finally, on Thursday 19th October acclaimed singer-songwriter Lucy Spraggan will also grace The Studio stage with an exclusive meet and greet opportunity for fans of the singer. Rising to fame through X Factor in 2012, Lucy quickly made a name for herself with her distinct folk pop sound. www.thestudiohartlepool.co.uk

with a dose of magical realism?

In Phantasmagoria, which is performed at Northern Stage from Tuesday 10th-Thursday 12th October, in the hours before a live TV debate, a young activist and a spokesperson for the ruling party meet in an isolated house in a forest with the intention of having some much-needed calm conversation. The script came about from this need to have a conversation, says writer Deepika Arwind. “We are living in a time when everyone has their own reality, based on their social media. When these different realities meet, when we have that rare conversation with someone of opposing ideology, the interactions are usually marked with anger or despair or a sense of ‘I don’t even know how to begin explaining this to you’.”

Shortlisted for The Hindu Playwright Award 2019, the play paints broad, yet strongly relatable strokes of political thought, and appears in the beginning to be pretty straightforward. Till the phantom creeps in, exiting and re-entering, changing form and size, even as the characters discuss their fears and aspirations and navigate clashes of opinion. For the forest is haunted by the spectre of a wild leopard, once caged within the crumbling house, but now free to roam and terrorise at will – but only some can see the beast and hear him roar.

As crowds gather demanding to attend the debate, mounting paranoia and horror collide in an explosive unravelling of political convictions and personal histories. Are you ready to enter into conversation?

Words: Helen Redfern

What would happen if women took the lead in discussing the lofty political issues of the day? And what would happen if that was injected

Phantasmagoria is performed at Northern Stage, Newcastle from Tuesday 10thThursday 12th October. www.northernstage.co.uk

Ria Lina

MUSIC EN ATTENDANT ANA @ THE CUMBERLAND ARMS

Words: Steve Spithray

Tyneside promoters Wandering Oak are bringing French indie evocateurs En Attendant Ana to the Cumby on Wednesday 4th October for a special evening of exquisite jangle pop in support of the Parisian quintet’s third album, Principia, which was released in February this

year.

With nods to French pop (both current and classic) and the group’s continued penchant for 90s British indie pop, band leader and principal songwriter Margaux Bouchaudon’s voice anchors many of the songs on Principia. However, it is the group’s genre defining guitar sound, for fans of The Cardigans and Alvvays, that makes them stand out. On Principia Margaux questions our perception of others and the one they have of us, all with a slightly raised eyebrow and garnished with distinctive French harmonies, gentle sonic experimenting and a healthy dollop of brass. Previous

albums, 2018’s Lost and Found and 2020’s Juillet, both also received broad praise. Support comes from Glasgow’s Sulka, formed in 2017 as a bedroom indie folk project firmly rooted in the DIY ethos and aesthetic, while opening the evening will be a rare outing for Sarah Suri and Duncan Lloyd’s project Nano Kino (plus added Tom English from Maximo Park on the night) with their ethereal euphoria. En Attendant Ana, Sulka and Nano Kino play The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle on Wednesday 4th October.

www.facebook.com/enattendantana

Image by Arno Muller

MUSIC THROUGH THE NOISE @ STAR

& SHADOW CINEMA

Words: Nat Greener

This Autumn, Newcastle will see the return of crowdfunded classical club night Through The Noise, which brings world-class performances which seek to blur the lines between classical and contemporary sounds. After a successful showcase with Sheku Kanneh-Mason back in December, the organisation is back with a

stellar line-up across three unique shows featuring performances from Manchester Collective, Abel Selaocoe & The Bantu Ensemble and Alexandra Whittingham.  October’s event takes place on Saturday 23rd at Ouseburn’s Star & Shadow Cinema, where Manchester Collective’s Rakhi Singh and guitarist Alan Keary present re-workings of Julia Wolfe’s seminal work for nine bagpipes, as well as the music of Bach, Steve Reich and Hildegard of Bingen.

On Thursday 2nd November, genre-defying virtuoso cellist Abel Selaocoe and an all-star band The Bantu Ensemble perform at the Boiler Shop, and Saturday 16th December will see Alexandra Whittingham, an international

classical guitar virtuoso, gracing Star & Shadow Cinema with her astonishing sound. Through The Noise started less than two years ago, using crowdfunding to bring classical music to local communities in their noisenight events. Co-founder Jack Bazalgette looks forward to presenting these exceptional musicians to Newcastle audiences: “We’re so grateful for the committed support of our community of classical fans, who continue to allow us to take international names to community venues around the country.”

Manchester Collective perform at Star & Shadow Cinema, Newcastle on Saturday 23rd October. www.throughthenoise.co.uk

An underground community of sex workers scattered across the globe and rooted in their fight for justice stand together, deciding enough is enough.

Connected by invisible threads that build the power and strength they need to make a change above ground, Mycelial is activism and theatre at its best.

Abel Selaocoe by Diva Garg

MUSIC THE JAPANESE HOUSE @ NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

Words: Matt Young

Everyone in attendance at this gig on Saturday 14th October should be wearing the same hazy summer sun-induced smile that accompanies listening to The Japanese House’s second album, In The End It Always Does. Released in festival season Amber Bain’s sophomore effort is riding a wave of good vibes that the music press has bestowed upon the album’s effervescent production, handled by George Daniel (The 1975) and Chloe Kraemer. The bright and occasionally brittle songs that Bain recites mix sombre stories with lighter, occasionally soaring arrangements and the hooky sing-a-longs belie their lyrical blend of twisted breakups and relationship drama, ultimately finding the positives beyond their bleakness.

The Matt Healy assisted duet Sunshine Baby is a key track on the newest album and likely to feature prominently in the set, although a Healy appearance isn’t guaranteed! In essence the new album, as with Bain’s first, Good At Falling and the preceding EPs, brings a nostalgic feel and a relatable vibe to the songs, and that’s why crowds take them to heart so willingly and possessively. You may even find yourself dancing along to some tracks; where earlier Bain material might illicit a sway at best, the new album has a certain individual swagger that accompanies the beats.

The Japanese House play Newcastle University Students’ Union on Saturday 14th October. www.thejapanesehouse.co.uk

MUSIC STAR & SHADOW FUNDRAISER

Words: Michael O’Neill

The legendary Star & Shadow Cinema has long been a vital bastion of arts and culture in the region. Since they survived the loss of their Stepney Bank venue, they’ve thrived in their new Sandyford base, regularly offering an incredible variety of film screenings, live music, club nights and cultural events. Like most of our vital cultural lifelines, the venue is sustained predominantly from funds raised by loyal supporters, and also from incredible events, such as the glorious sonic banquet of a fundraiser taking place on Saturday 7th October, boasting an incredible line-up of some phenomenal local gems.

Spearheading the line-up are the inimitable and iconic duo Badger, whose brilliantly eclectic and singular bangers have seen them gain some well-deserved recognition from DIY titans Sleaford Mods, who recently hand-picked them to support on their recent UK Grim tour. Also performing are the chameleonic Waves Of Dread, the fledgling desert rock of ZUDZ, local songwriting legend Nev Clay, newbies Marginal Gains, the darkwave stylings of Holy Braille and Steff Mundi. It’s a complete steal too, costing a recommended donation of £7, but the venue also offer a pay-what-you-can option on the door, to ensure that nobody is turned away for lack of funds.

The Star & Shadow Cinema fundraiser takes place on Saturday 7th October.

www.starandshadow.org.uk

STAGE BEYOND CARING @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Lily Pratt

The theatre has often been regarded as the cradle of political and social expression, and in an age where the elderly seem to be more and more neglected, it is most definitely time for their experience within care homes to be enshrined within theatre.

It can be all too easy to ignore the elderly and those who care for them, as care homes are haunting illustrations of how no money can buy or change time, and how nobody can cheat death. The play Beyond Caring “shines a light on often hilarious and hard-hitting experiences and asks crucial questions about ageing, identity and adult care provision”, as described by the playwright, Christina Castling, who continued: “We’re delighted that Beyond Caring will help facilitate crucial conversations about the wellbeing of care home staff. We hope the play will have a lasting impact on audiences, whilst demonstrating how the arts can play a meaningful role in encouraging debate around timely issues.”

The play, directed by Jonluke McKie, will be performed at venues across the North East between Saturday 7th October-Sunday 5th November, and will be a witty yet heartfelt illustration of ageing and the tales of those who care for the old. Watching it should be of paramount importance, not only to understand a key component of human life, but also of the UK’s care system.

Beyond Caring is performed at venues across the region between Saturday 7th OctoberSunday 5th November. Check their website for full listings. www.beyond-caring.co.uk

The Japanese House by Max Barnett

INTERVIEWS MUSIC

MXYM

IT’S ALL SPECIAL BECAUSE IT’S MOMENTARY, AND THE ACCEPTANCE OF DEATH IS WHAT MAKES RIGHT NOW JOYOUS

CLAIRE DUPREE TALKS TO AVANT-GARDE MUSIC MAKER MXYM ABOUT THEIR DEBUT EP, THE VULNERABILITIES OF BEING AN HONEST ARTIST, AND THE DRIVE TO LIVE WITH PURPOSE IMAGE BY TJMOV

North East artist MXYM doesn’t just make music, it’s an intrinsic part of who they are. Growing up, MXYM’s induction came through their parents and a house which throbbed with sound, from classic rock to musical theatre and “weird 80s music”. A deeper connection came during their formative years in college, when the music around at the time wasn’t adequate enough for them to identify with. “I needed to fill that void myself and that’s when I started writing.”

MXYM’s music is honest, intense and immersive; blurring identities and genres – from avant-garde, alternative and goth, to glam, emo, industrial and pop – with an innate creativity and a desire for the listener to be completely engrossed in their creative world. Their music has art at its core, with universal themes (albeit often wrapped in metaphor) and varied musical landscapes shot through with Queer sensibility and style. “Because my music catalogue is quite varied I’ve given myself freedom to not be bound by genre or style, which has given me the perfect playground to see what works for me and what the audience enjoys.”

Previous releases have seen MXYM play with 50s B-movie tropes (Starfire), dark dance (Sixteen), industrial goth (Private In Public) and eclectic pop (Pageant), but their new EP sees them traverse new musical landscapes, in turn revealing far more of themselves as an artist. Memento Mori was inspired by a year of “intense change and uncertainty”, and explores death in its many forms, from the loss of a loved one to the end of a relationship and the deaths of self we endure to become who we are. “The whole thing stems from losing your support net and people you thought you’d have forever.” They explain. Taking grief as a starting point, the EP’s sentiment is something of a darker take on ‘carpe diem’, and all the tracks share a much heavier soundtrack than much of MXYM’s material thus far. Opener Six Feet Deep starts out with intent, an industrial gothic masterpiece which ricochets with punchy beats; recent single Coven is dark and sultry with massive riffs; and Cross To Bear’s bass-driven rhythm is punctuated by angry guitar stabs. Necrophiliac, with its tongue-in-cheek lyrics and toe-curling crunching noises (created by squashing a plastic water bottle, not crushing bones, I was pleased to discover) is paired with a poppy chorus which has ‘ear-worm’ written all over it. As with much of MXYM’s creative output, Memento Mori is a multi-layered beast, evidenced by mid-EP track Punk Narcissus, which shows a softer and more vulnerable side to the artist which wasn’t always easy for them to reconcile. “Although you perhaps can’t tell what I’m writing about, I think you can tell there’s a lot of hurt in Punk Narcisuss and while I’m not verbally so open, sonically I am. And that’s still quite scary. I come from that Joan Crawford school of every time I leave the house I am MXYM; my hair is done, I have some eyeliner on, I’m in an outfit, you’ll never really see the person behind MXYM, so to put a song out that feels so open and hurt and honest is quite scary for me as a performer.”

Closing track La Dolce Morte is a stadium-sized ballad, and cements the intentions behind the EP. “La Dolce Morte is accepting loss will happen and if it wasn’t for the fact that we’ll all die, that things do end, everything that came before wouldn’t have any meaning. It’s all special because it’s momentary, and the acceptance of death is what makes right now joyous.

Memento Mori literally means ‘remember you will die’ –remember that every day you wake up, that’s not a guarantee,

your gift is that day. Don’t take it for granted.”

MXYM admits that dealing with such big themes out in the open doesn’t come naturally; much of their work is cloaked in sweeping metaphors and massive melodies. “I really struggle with getting to the heart of the matter and being honest, and I definitely didn’t achieve that with this EP, I think my voice as an artist is just that abstractness. But this time around there were moments that I’d write a line and it felt too real and I’d have to second guess it, and I think because it’s all abstract and metaphorical, it’s only obvious to me, but it’s scary.” The live arena is not the place you’d expect to see this vulnerability – an MXYM live show is heavy, angry and frequently raunchy. Armed with a synth pad and a laptop, MXYM admits they enjoy the dissonance that comes with shocking an audience. Having come up among the Newcastle drag scene and regularly performing as part of the BonBons Cabaret, their performance style straddles both the Queer and alt. indie scenes, although it wasn’t always an easy marriage. “When I went out on stage I didn’t feel very confident doing very heavy rock music, but I’ve been really surprised at how much Newcastle Queer artists love heavy music in the gay bars. Coming up in the cabaret scene and having to transfer that to an indie music night, I think it’s worked wonders to be a fun performer and really all encompassing. I’ve been able to feel confident to perform in my space and to do an EP that at its heart and soul is so true to the DNA of who me as a person is and the music that makes my spirit soar.”

This confidence is perhaps most in evidence when it comes to the complete worlds that MXYM’s music inhabit. Their use of art, image and identity is influenced by the likes of Grace Jones, Bowie’s Aladdin Sane and Madonna; each song has a colour palette, a mood and in many cases a boundary pushing music video. “As soon as I start writing lyrics, it creeps in bit by bit –this sound, that texture, those trousers, this wig. It all comes out in one piece, it’s never secondary to anything.” North East creative, photographer and filmmaker TJmov is MXYM’s creative partner in crime, enabling them to realise their increasingly out-there visions. “I like to come to him with the stupid ideas and the thing that makes him incredibly talented is he can figure out how to do it. Whereas I’m a big blue-sky thinker, he can magic things up from nothing.”

The absolute distillation of Memento Mori will perhaps best be experienced live, and in typical MXYM fashion an immersive gig is planned at Northern Stage on Friday 13th October. “It’ll be spooky, bleak, fun; there will be a coffin, probably about 1,000 white flowers, bespoke visuals, speciality cocktails. It will be a night like no other and the truest MXYM live experience that you’ll get. If that doesn’t sell it, I don’t know what will.”

MXYM releases Memento Mori EP on 2nd October. Their immersive live experience at Northern Stage, Newcastle on Friday 13th October also features performances from Kkett and Holly Rees.

www.mxym.bandcamp.com

ANDREW CUSHIN

Conducting in our interview while sat poolside in Vienna, preparing to perform at the Wiener Stadthalle arena supporting Louis Tomlinson, Andrew Cushin is certainly living his best life. With his career lurching into action back in 2020, and Noel Gallagher producing his 2021 single Where’s My Family Gone?, the skyrocketing story of Cushin has seen him progress phenomenally over the few years he’s been making music. Having supported acts like Paul Weller, Jake Bugg and Johnny Marr, the 23-year-old songwriter from Newcastle has been honing his craft and fine-tuning his songs, which depict modern life and the tribulations and journeys we all experience, and he’s now gearing up for the release of his long anticipated debut album.

Waiting For The Rain is out on 29th September, and is almost immediately succeeded by a tour up and down the country. “Honestly, I haven’t really written it as an album.” Cushin shares. “I started writing songs when I was 16 and out of all the songs I’ve ever written, this is the cream of the crop. Some tracks have been with me seven years, and gone through lots of different stages and forms. It’s a little out of my comfort zone tweaking some of them or polishing them up and letting them go, the title track is the first song I ever wrote. I remember playing it to my mates and it really feeling important. I think even they knew it was gonna lead to something.”

When reflecting on the new album, which Cushin describes as “a few toe-tappers, a few movers, and the occasional sit down song”, the one word that keeps coming up is pride. There’s a clear sense that no part of this journey has gone unnoticed by the artist, from the album to the tour, Cushin seems highly aware that these insane events are something to be proud of. “If it takes off now, or if go get a normal job, I’m so proud of what I’m doing now. I’m proud of this adventure. We moved house when I was a kid and out of boredom I got my dad’s guitar. At 16 I figured out House Of The Rising Sun, then Bob Dylan and Neil Young became my obsessions, now the ball’s got rolling and it’s all because of that. If it didn’t start there, this wouldn’t have happened. I’m so proud of where I’ve ended up and so proud of my band, they’re fucking good.”

Although many of the tracks are the chorus-heavy, anthemic hits that carry the youthful exuberance of Cushin’s indie sound, tracks like 4.5%, which depicts his father’s struggle with alcohol, feel different and hint at an artist with a maturity beyond his years. “It’s the one I struggle to sing live, it had me in tears in the studio.” He says. “I’ve gigged it for years acoustically, watching it grow with the band into a different song is beautiful. It’s a tough experience to relive each night, but it’s a song people relate to. It’s nice for me to know there’s others out there, I think the fans are helping me with it as much as I’m helping them.”

Andrew Cushin releases Waiting For The Rain on 29th September. He plays O2 City Hall, Newcastle on Saturday 4th November (sold out) and Saturday 16th December.

www.andrewcushin.com

CAMERON WRIGHT TALKS TO THE NEWCASTLE SONGWRITER ABOUT HIS LONG ANTICIPATED DEBUT ALBUM

I STARTED WRITING SONGS WHEN I WAS 16 AND OUT OF ALL THE SONGS I’VE EVER WRITTEN, THIS IS THE CREAM OF THE CROP

TWISTERELLA

JAY MOUSSA-MANN INVESTIGATES THE LINE-UP OF ARTISTS PERFORMING AT MIDDLESBROUGH’S TWISTERELLA FESTIVAL

Award-winning music festival Twisterella returns for its ninth annual event, taking place on Saturday 14th October in multiple venues and spaces across Middlesbrough town centre. As always, the line-up includes an exciting spread of emerging and established artists, with headliners across the five stages including alt. indie rock duo Prima Queen, choppy popsters Dutch Uncles, home-grown rabble rousers Avalanche Party, gritty punk funkers Opus Kink and the dark grrrl power of Venus Grrrls.

The festival exhibits a wide variety of genres and styles across the board. If you’re up for something wacky and wild and feeling in the mood to step inside a 1980s TV check out Adult DVD, a delightfully happy mix of suppressed rage and joy in synthy electronic, boop-boop ting-ting form. Another one to look out for is the dazzling R&B-infused shimmery rock pop of Cathy Jain, whose track Cool Kid was crowned BBC Radio R1 Introducing’s Track of The Week, and with good reason. We also tip great performances from Brighton’s grungy new wavers Ciel, the instantly addictive avant-funk dance of Hang Linton, Welsh hip-hop artist Sage Todz, who raps in both English and Welsh, and the refreshing post-punk math rock-infused band Alien Chicks.

Also of note will be performances from alt. indie punk band Shelf Lives; surf twang from Melin Melyn; seven-piece alt. rock ‘n rollers The Joy Hotel; the Manchester-based sunshine indie of Juice Pops; Spielmann’s towering alternative indie pop rock; acclaimed Aberdeen MC Chef The Rapper; pop rock act Cherym; DIY popsters Heir; emo folk band Suds; Liverpool’s guitar toting quintet Reignmaker; Scottish guitar band Slix; young singer-songwriter Megan Wyn and alt. pop songwriter (and one half of Prima Queen) Kitty Fitz.

Twisterella sees appearances from a glut of local favourites too, such as heartfelt fuzz rock collective Dressed Like Wolves; BBC Tees Introducing front runner Eyeconic; savage dystopian rock band Gone Tomorrow; Hartlepool indie-poppers Marketplace; the honest lyricism of singer-songwriter Melanie Baker; soaring indie pop singer-songwriter Jen Dixon; mind-bending art pop artist Dilettante; genre-breaking ethereal storyteller Me

THE OPPORTUNITY TO BRING SOME OF THE BEST NEW ACTS TO MIDDLESBROUGH AND ALLOW PEOPLE TO DISCOVER THEIR NEW FAVOURITE BAND IS ALWAYS SUCH A THRILL

Lost Me; Newcastle punks Irked; Liz Corney, who is best known for her work with The Cornshed Sisters and Field Music; plus Teesside’s own alt. indie artist Weathership. In addition to the music stages, Twisterella’s very own (un) Conference returns, bringing together key figures from the music industry to offer their knowledge to Teesside’s next generation of artists. The free entry forum event will include experts such as Shakk (BBC Music Introducing), Bradley Kulisic and Pippa Morgan (Singing Light), Lucy Harbron (Gigwise), Hollie Galloway (filmmaker), David Saunders (NARC./Tees Music Alliance) and Shell Zenner (Amazing Radio), and will take place at Middlesbrough Town Hall from 10.30am (finishing at 12.30pm, in time to head to the festival for the first artists).

Co-promoters Henry Carden and Andy Carr are as ever, delighted to be bringing exceptional artists to the town. “The opportunity to bring some of the best new acts to Middlesbrough and allow people to discover their new favourite band is always such a thrill. We’re so excited to be able to Twist again!”

Twisterella takes place at various venues in Middlesbrough on Saturday 14th October. www.twisterella.co.uk

T-B, L-R: Cherym, Prima Queen, Dutch Uncles by Oliver Sangster, Shelf Lives

LUKE ROYALTY

JONATHAN COLL TALKS WITH THE DARLINGTON-BORN ARTIST ABOUT MOVING ONWARDS AND UPWARDS WITH HIS NEW EP

MUSIC

Darlington’s Luke Royalty burst onto the scene back in 2020 with divine, laid-back R&B tunes that expressed a confidence beyond his relative youth. A lot has changed in the short period since; forthcoming EP, 9INE, is his most innovative work to date, and arrives at a time when he’s considering plans for the future and reflecting on what he’s achieved so far. Exactly like his music, Luke is engaging, articulate and doesn’t put a word out of place. He spoke about the music that’s been influencing him recently, and the how that’s inspired him to push against the edges of a typical Luke Royalty record. He’s recently moved to Manchester, but not because he’s forgotten his roots. “It was more to be surrounded by other writers and artists. It was less for the live scene, I’ve never really been a big gig guy. A lot of artists get into music so they can perform, but for me it was always just something that came with it. I enjoy gigs, but I prefer the writing and the creative process.” While Luke may not have a complete affinity for the stage at this point in his young career, it hasn’t held him back. “I have started to enjoy it more, as the gigs have been getting bigger and better, I suppose. I supported Jake Bugg last year on tour, playing in front of 3,000 people every night. I used to get on stage and couldn’t wait for it to be over, but I’ve learned to love the whole experience of the gig. But I definitely prefer the writing and the self-expression instead of having all eyes on me.”

With all that said, as we’re speaking Luke is preparing for a London gig, which will be only his second in the nation’s capital. “It’s alongside some great artists and I’ve not done a full band gig in about nine months. So it felt like the right time. I’m playing with Ethan Carter, who is smashing it, with Mike and Josh. I always look at my band members and see them as such proper performers; real musicianship.”

Despite switching up his home town, as well as his listening and performing habits, the composition of his band has remained a constant. “I’ve been listening to a lot of James Blake and Dean Blunt. I think when people hear the new tunes that they’ll recognise that, without it being too drastic. There is some consistency, and the music still reflects who I am as a person.” The lead single from the EP, Up!, captures this new sound brilliantly. “It’s probably the least weird track from the new EP. I’m proud that I’m not making the same music as I was two years ago; I’m not struggling for inspiration.”

The new record leans more heavily into sampling and production, instead of being geared toward the live experience. It features the likes of fellow North Eastern pop artist L Devine, and was produced in collaboration with Julien Flew. “I’ve learned a lot in terms of production, and it’s come full circle now. I definitely see myself more as a producer, and the next step is being able to inspire other artists in the same way.”

Whether from the stage or in the studio, Luke Royalty continues to be one of the region’s most fascinating emerging artists, and we can’t wait to see what he does next.

Luke Royalty releases 9INE EP on 6th October via Soul Kitchen Records.

www.facebook.com/lukeroyalty

I DEFINITELY PREFER THE WRITING AND THE SELF-EXPRESSION INSTEAD OF HAVING ALL EYES ON ME

Image by Manta

DURHAM BOOK FESTIVAL

JOSEPH SPENCE DISCOVERS WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR BIBLIOPHILES AS THE LITERATURE FESTIVAL RETURNS TO DURHAM

Durham Book Festival will welcome 40 authors to the city for a lively weekend of events, discussions, workshops and readings from Friday 13th-Sunday 15th October.

The festival is book-ended by a couple of very special events. Festival laureate Zaafar Kunial will open festivities by reading from his recent poetry collection England’s Green, as well as present a newly commissioned poem inspired by Durham (Friday 13th, Gala Studio). A real must-attend is a worldexclusive dramatic live reading from Durham author Benjamin Myers’ acclaimed novel, Cuddy, which traces the story of St. Cuthbert through the centuries, told with Myers’ typical aplomb, and created in partnership with Live Theatre director Jack McNamara, and featuring music from The Shining Levels (Sunday 15th, Gala Theatre). Delve further into the life of St Cuthbert during Cuddy’s Corse, a guided walk which will see event goers walk from the Church of St Mary & St Cuthbert in Chester-le-Street to Durham Cathedral whilst taking in the story of St Cuthbert told through fact and fiction (Saturday 14th).

Further highlights include an event with food critic Grace Dent, who will be discussing her new book Comfort Eating, which celebrates the food that we turn to when we crave a bit of nostalgia or carving a slice of time aside with foods that we call ‘guilty pleasures’ (Friday 13th, Gala Theatre). Acclaimed political thinkers Sebastian Payne and Chris Mullin discuss their books and the region’s approaching devolution (Saturday 14th, Gala Theatre). John Murray Press celebrate three of their most exciting debut novels publishing next year, Gender Theory by Madeline Doherty, Cinema Love by Andy Jiaming Tang and The Borrowed Hills by Scott Preston (plus, festival goers get early copies of the books!) (Sunday 15th, Gala Studio).

Broadcaster Melanie Sykes reveals her experiences being diagnosed with autism aged 51, and reads from her book

Illuminated (Sunday 15th, Gala Theatre). And there’s a poetry showcase featuring readings from Mary Jean Chan, Kit Fan and Jen Campbell (Sunday 15th, Gala Studio).

Female characters are put under the spotlight in a couple of interesting events: writers Natasha Solomons and Isabelle Schuler discuss their processes of giving new voices to some of Shakespeare’s female characters in their novels (Saturday 14th, Gala Studio); author Kirsty Logan and graphic novelist Eleanor Crewes discuss their contributions to a collection of short stories for ground-breaking feminist publisher Virago in celebration of their 50th anniversary (Saturday 14th, Gala Studio); and Sunday Times bestselling author Janina Ramirez explores Durham’s medieval history, the female saints who were St Cuthbert’s contemporaries and her ground-breaking reappraisal, Femina, which looks at women who were struck from our historical narratives (Saturday 14th, Gala Theatre). There are opportunities for budding writers to stretch their skills at workshops at Clayport Library: on Saturday, Caro Giles discusses how creativity supports wellbeing and Laura Fish’s workshop looks at approaches for turning history into fiction. On Sunday, poet, novelist and critic Kit Fan explores the myths and mechanics of a novel’s beginning, while poet and filmmaker David Spittle explores connections between storytelling and poetry.

Add to all this readings from Katherine Heiny, Ruth Ware, Nasheema Lennon, Trevor Wood, C Pam Zhang, Sheena Patel, Cecile Pin, Jeanette Winterson, Helen Rebanks, Pip Fallow, Isabel Hardman and Charlotte Van den Broeck.

Durham Book Festival takes place at various venues across the city from Friday 13th-Sunday 15th October.

www.durhambookfestival.com

T-B, L-R: Zaafar Kunial by Geraint Hill, Jeanette Winterson by Sam Churchill, Benjamin Myers

AARON DINNING

Pushing himself to be as open and raw as possible, the new release from Aaron Dinning is nothing if not a statement of intent by an artist looking to be fully and authentically available.  Complicated Art is a six-track EP which serves as proof of further development by an artist already showing both songwriting and musical promise, underlined by his desire to tell personal and real stories. “The EP is all about the challenges of finding love as a gay man and of a selection of some of the stories and truths I’ve had in my life so far,” he explains. “I’m incredibly proud of where I got to on this EP and how open I allowed myself to be.”

Building on 2022’s Defying The Odds single, Complicated Art starts with the Rufus Wainwright-styled piece of operatic piano minimalism of 24, which bursts into a dancefloor pop track and is sprinkled with Dinning’s honest songwriting style. Yet whilst the honesty of 24, and in fact the whole EP, may be the key hook of the release, there were obvious artistic challenges that came with this decision: “The writing wasn’t too bad as it was more like me writing a diary, but I had panics as the EP was getting finished and was closer and closer to being released. I wasn’t sure if I wanted people in the songs to know, or think, that this was about them, or how I felt. But at the end of the day, there’s

so much of my truth and history in the songs, and I don’t think I could write in a different style, so I’m really proud I pushed myself.”

Exploring a number of different musical textures (the acoustic guitar opening of Break Your Jaw through to the more gentle, heartbreaking Daisy Chain), the beating heart of Complicated Art is in its love for pop hooks and catchy melodies. “I think my favourite artists and inspirations have the ability to be brave and to speak their truth and that’s something that I want to be able to do.” Aaron says. “There’s not too much music by, and about, life as a gay man and especially one from a part of the world where there’s a lot of stereotypes about what a man is supposed to be. I think that’s an interesting area to explore and to be open about.”

With plans already in place for the next creative stages of his life, it’s nice to not only see an artist finding strong artistic foundations, but also growing in confidence to explore new ones. “I’ve started developing ideas already about what comes next after the EP, whether in terms of the live shows or in terms of the kind of songs I want to write in the future.”

Though perhaps the best part of Dinning’s evolution is his commitment to his own artistry. “I think more than anything I want to continue to be open and honest, to get braver and bolder and to tell even more of my truth. I’d like to push myself even further.”

Aaron Dinning releases Complicated Art on 6th October. www.facebook.com/aarondinningmusic

DAMIAN ROBINSON TALKS TO THE DURHAM SONGWRITER ABOUT HIS HONEST APPROACH TO SONGWRITING ON HIS DEBUT EP

MORE THAN ANYTHING I WANT TO CONTINUE TO BE OPEN AND HONEST, TO GET BRAVER AND BOLDER AND TO TELL EVEN MORE OF MY TRUTH

Image by Anja Hasselbeck

ISABEL MARIA

STEVE SPITHRAY TALKS TO THE SUNDERLAND SONGWRITER ABOUT THE INSPIRATION BEHIND HER DEBUT EP

MUSIC

Image by Howy White

It seems many young artists from Sunderland have an epiphany moment where music is imparted upon or gifted to them by an influential elder, and 17-year-old songwriter Isabel Maria is the latest in that line. With a love of storytelling since being a small child it was only when her grandfather gave her a keyboard that Isabel began to understand how she could interpret these stories as music. Encouraged by We Make Culture’s Young Musicians Project. Isabel learned how to use her love of language to write songs and the result is her debut EP, The Melodramatic Milers Club, a raw collection of emotive works inspired by walks the singer started taking during the pandemic.

“I used to hate walking when I was younger but during lockdown I started to take to it and at the end of last year I realised how much of a catalyst the walks were becoming for my writing, and that’s when I started to do it with a real purpose for the EP. Most of the places were just off my doorstep – walking in circles around my nearby streets – but I also had the chance to walk in Austria where the snow and the wooden architecture gave me loads of cool ideas, it was just such an interesting place to be creative in.”

And what a lovely EP it is too. Produced by South Shields’ Harbourmaster (Martin Trollope), it is pertinently scenic but also thematic, blending folk, pop and rock with countless sub-genres into six tracks of gentle sonics and surprisingly open and mature songwriting for someone as young as Isabel. “Working with Martin is always a huge pleasure. His kindness and musicianship create such a safe space to grow a song. Martin actually plays every instrument on these recordings. It’s been such a privilege to both work alongside him and watch him do his thing.”

However, that is not to downplay Isabel’s own input and, in

IS

CATHARTIC FOR

fact, she already has a 2023 Northern Writers Award on her shelf at home. “I come up with the progressions on the piano and try and string together whatever other cohesive ideas I have into a concept. All of the songs on this EP were born on the piano.” And, lyrically, is it hard to be that open? “That’s the way it comes naturally. Writing is so cathartic for me and I honestly think it would be harder to write a song that didn’t mean anything to me at all.”

What is also impressive, although not so surprising having spoken to Isabel, is the way the themes and genres in the music intertwine across the six tracks on the EP. “I made a conscious effort to jump genres a little across the project. There’s pop, folk, rock and bits of other things buried in there, alongside some issues and feelings I’ve never addressed musically before. It felt important to keep the piano as the primary line in all of the songs, and I think that’s at least one thing that ties them all together while letting them all shine in their own way too. I think it’s cool that they manage to work so well together, but also that they could still be just as potent on their own.”

Isabel Maria launches The Melodramatic Milers Club at The Ship Isis, Sunderland

on Friday 20th October. www.linktr.ee/isa6elmaria

WRITING

SO

ME AND I HONESTLY THINK IT WOULD BE HARDER TO WRITE A SONG THAT DIDN’T MEAN ANYTHING TO ME AT ALL

ALL BEFORE

CAMERON WRIGHT TALKS TO THE NORTH EAST METALCORE BAND ABOUT REBRANDING AND REDEFINING THEIR SOUND MUSIC

“Before we were who we are now, we were Nephilim. As Nephilim, we wrote stories into our songs. There were these big stories, but they weren’t stories we’d experienced. These epics of battles and wars just weren’t anything new. The lockdown changed our writing. We needed to  change our name, rebrand our identity. There’s 100 bands called Nephilim, there’s only one All Before.”

From the effective experiments with synths and piano instrumentation, to the introspective lyrics or thundering, show stealing drum work, All Before have ensured that their EP So Pass Me Your Hand... is an evolution from their previous sound. The EP sounds deliberately bigger, more textured and nuanced, yet the band are still kicking out harder than ever. With each of the EPs tracks contributing something different, the various styles of metalcore each scratch a distinct itch, both for the listener and for the band. “We’re no strangers to trying different things.” Confesses Tyler, the band’s drummer. “Each of our members has their own unique style. We’ve definitely tried to keep everyone happy, it makes it more interesting for us if there’s different strands of melody or intensity knocking around. Some of the guys are more orientated on the complex,  technically proficient music, whereas some prefer simple sounds that kick and punch. We’ve hit a good balance here, every track shows something different, but shows who we are and what we can do.”

Honing in on the EP’s closer, Daydreaming, Tyler and bassist Jake discuss why the track means so much to them. “It’s got streaks of black metal running through it, as well as shoegaze. With all those atmospheric soundscapes, it’s the furthest we’ve pushed our sound so far. Across the EP  the songs play with

dynamics and emotion more than we have done. There’s light and dark. It’s a sad track about splitting up, but it’s about rebuilding. It’s about those thoughts and worries about the future.”

Another poignant and evident change from the band’s recent gear shift from Nephilim to All Before is the lyricism. Across the EP, the band’s lyrical voice has changed in a way that is far more introspective and open about mental health, and far more aware of the dangers of the mind. It shares honest depictions of emotion and leaves them bare, as crushing fills and searing guitars rain around them. The lyrics are a rally cry to all those in need.

“I think you end up finding metal for a reason, be it anger or depression. I think it’s a way to channel that energy.” muses Jake, as Tyler confirms: “I see metal as an outlet, those heavy songs chill me out because there’s something else being loud and angry so I don’t have to be. When I’m playing through the heavier, faster tracks, I’m most at ease. I want people to feel as free as I do, by moshing and dancing.”

All Before release So Pass Me Your Hand... on 20th October. The band play Trillians, Newcastle on Monday 23rd October and The Georgian Theatre, Stockton on Friday 3rd November. www.linktr.ee/allbefore23

ACROSS THE EP THE SONGS PLAY WITH DYNAMICS AND EMOTION MORE THAN WE HAVE DONE

SUNDERLAND SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

SARAH STORER DISCOVERS WHAT’S ON OFFER AT THIS YEAR’S CINEMATIC EXTRAVAGANZA

Sunderland Shorts Film Festival is back for its eighth year this October, showcasing a variety of local, national and global talent across the city.

Between Monday 16th-Sunday 22nd October, screenings will be held at a number of locations across Sunderland. With over 160 films set to premiere, there’s a wide range of genres and styles to suit everyone.

For those who’d like to get into the nitty gritty of filmmaking, there are opportunities to attend panel discussions with BFI Film Hub North and filmmaker Q&As after some screenings. Industry masterclasses and networking events are ideal for those wanting to take their first steps into the industry and meet likeminded peers.

The opening Social Cinema Screening (Monday 16th, Holy Trinity Church) features shorts from Yorkshire and North East Film Archives which explore social and political issues, from gender equality to climate justice; the Music Video Night and gig from the Young Musicians Project combines music videos from a wide variety of artists including Sparks, Liam Fender, Wolfred and The Union Choir, plus there’s live music from artists taking part in Sunderland’s Young Musicians Project (Wednesday 18th at Pop Recs Ltd.); the Comedy Showcase and Stand-Up Night features live stand-up sets alongside screenings of comedy shorts, with each of the films shown followed by a filmmaker Q&A, giving insight into the creative process behind

them. Felt Nowt provide the live hilarity, with stand-up sets from Lee Kyle, Neil Harris, Kelly Edgar and Jack and Sam (Thursday 19th at Diego’s Joint); Sunderland Shorts x Film Hub North present a Northern Exposure screening in which a group of young and emerging filmmakers have curated a selection of short films from Northern artists (Friday 20th at Arts Centre Washington); DIY Filmmaking Challenge is a new project from Film Hub North as part of the BFI Film Academy, offering 16-25 year olds a chance to practice their filmmaking skills and create original short films in response to the theme of Challenge is the Environment (Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Saturday 21st); and finally, a special screening will shine a spotlight on homegrown filmmakers, championing local talent and gaining an insight into their creative process with post-screening Q&As, followed by the 2023 Awards (Sir Tom Cowie Lecture Theatre, Sunday 22nd). The closing day of the festival will also see a networking event take place at the City Hall.

In addition, there are showcase screenings of short films which cover a vast array of genres across the weekend, with arty and experimental films and horror flicks at Arts Centre Washington on Friday 20th; animation shorts, documentaries, sci-fi and fantasy and drama at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens on Saturday 21st; and more documentaries and drama showcases at Sir Tom Cowie Lecture Theatre on Sunday 22nd. There are a variety of ticket passes available, and the full listings and tickets for screenings can be found on the Sunderland Shorts website.

Sunderland Shorts Film Festival takes place at venues across Sunderland from Monday 16th-Sunday 22nd October. www.sunderlandshorts.co.uk

WITH OVER 160 FILMS SET TO PREMIERE, THERE’S A WIDE RANGE OF GENRES AND STYLES TO SUIT EVERYONE

T-B, L-R: Salvation Has No Name, The Weenies, Chicken Girl, Short Stay, Long Stay

LOST LOT

CAMERON WRIGHT DISCUSSES EMOTIVE SONGWRITING AND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LIVE EXPERIENCE WITH THE NORTH EAST ALT. COUNTRY BAND

“As a person, I’m pretty monotone,” confesses Matt Dunbar, the songwriting force behind Lost Lot. “I’m pretty reserved and one note, until I’m writing, then it all comes out.”

The emotional country stylings of the band combine beautiful, easy melodies with poignant and earnest songwriting that has a striking candour and vulnerability about it. “My favourite songs are where you get an insight into the writer’s life, you get to see them. Writing has become an easy way for me to tap into what I’m feeling, as opposed to what I want to feel or think I should feel. It helps me connect with my most authentic self.” With a style reminiscent of Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit, the truth held in each lyric is paramount to Dunbar’s songwriting. Hunting for a sense of truth in each of the depicted experiences, the songs feel inherently emotive and raw. “They’re all my life, stories I’ve heard or seen. People have really interesting ways of dealing with grief, and it’s something we all experience, something we all relate to. Addressing these topics is what makes life easier. It’s good to open up these conversations.”

With a track like the EPs finale Ghost, or the simple, swelling Bare Bones, it is easy to see how these songs have already connected with listeners. With the instrumental providing the

perfect soundtrack to stories of struggles with mental health, growing up and experiencing life. “People come up to us and say that the songs have connected with them. That’s what they’re supposed to do, and it’s great to see it working!”

While songs like Coffee are captivating through their breathtaking lyrics, the EP is a testament to the whole band. Lost Lot are the band Dunbar had previously been touring as Matt Dunbar & The Autonomous Collective, and a natural evolution saw a rebrand as they got to grips with recording and producing everything themselves, with simple acoustic numbers stretching into the invigorating and dynamic numbers on the EP. “I’ve been playing and recording with the band for five years now, we’re really close. These songs are ours, it really is a group process now, we share the songs.”

With the EP released on 27th October, the launch will be followed by a series of live shows, which is where the band come alive. Dunbar speaks of the importance of live music: “For me, playing live is all about being in the moment. You can’t pre-plan or look back, you have to be in the moment.

Having to create the art right there, getting emersed by it. In the right environment with the right people, you disappear into the music. Live music just makes me appreciate it all. You see people enjoy themselves. The best gigs are those where they just love it, it’s inspiring.”

Lost Lot release their self-titled EP on 27th October.

www.facebook.com/lostlotband

WRITING HAS BECOME AN EASY WAY FOR ME TO TAP INTO WHAT I’M FEELING, AS OPPOSED TO WHAT I WANT TO FEEL OR THINK I SHOULD FEEL

WAVES OF DREAD

MATT YOUNG TALKS TO THE RELUCTANT SHOEGAZERS ABOUT THEIR CATHARTIC DEBUT ALBUM

Newcastle dream pop band Waves of Dread release their debut album, A Bad Dream in A Raging Sea, this month. Its emergence has been a painful process in so many ways, as a literal interpretation of the title might suggest. But with the release imminent there’s also been an opportunity to view things in a more detached way, as cathartic and ultimately healing. I caught up with Nick, singer, songwriter and the person who’s experienced all of the album’s ups and down most closely.

Nick begins by likening the process of making this album to going through therapy. “It was therapeutic on a number of levels. We’d obviously all been in lockdown for the previous year or so before we started recording, so it was good for us as a group to finally be able to do something like that again. On a personal level, I certainly had some stuff to get off my chest. Lyrically it covers a lot of ground, coming to terms with the death of mine and Steph’s mother, relationship issues, as well as my seemingly never-ending battle with my mental health.” Heavy stuff indeed. The context of songs like Cold, Forevermore and Motion feel weightier in light of knowing this, as do a lot of the other tracks to a greater or lesser degree.

Steph, Nick’s sister and co-vocalist, guitarist and keyboardist in Waves of Dread also performs as Steff Mundi, the other album personnel include long-time friends Bob (guitar), Steven (bass – and now permanent drummer), Lucas (drums) and newer member Binho (bass, keys) and appearances from other musicians including Charlotte of Marginal Gains on violin and James Leonard Hewitson on trumpet for the epic opening album track Moon Shows/Sun Shows – which showcases the album’s broader contrast of dark and light perfectly.

With Nick’s home demos whipped into shape by the band, including a couple of older songs worked up as singles, recording the album proper shifted to Harbourmaster

Production Studios with owner/producer/engineer Martin Trollope, someone Nick recommends highly. “He’s great to work with. He gets us. It was important for us to work with someone who is a fan of the kind of music we make.”

So, to the music then. It’s a sound that’s difficult to categorise. There are lots of melodic guitar washes, languid but solid drumming and occasional fuzzy sounding vocals, all of which could be classed as ‘shoegazing’, Twilight and Oyster being the most obvious examples. There are up tempo, angry and indie pop sounds too, adding further colour to the music. Nick’s been quoted before as not recognising some of shoegazy comparisons in his band’s songs, I understand as there’s definitely much more to them and a lot of it is happier sounding.

“Despite the depressing nature of the lyrics, we never had any intention of making a miserable record.” He confirms. “As a band we’ve always been about trying to turn negatives into positives. That’s why we recorded this album.” Mission accomplished on that front, and with the strong return of many original ‘shoegaze’ artists recently, after thirty years being considered a ‘phase’, Waves of Dread can hope to connect with this same appreciative audience.

Waves of Dread launch A Bad Dream In A Raging Sea on Friday 13th October at The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle. www.wavesofdread.bandcamp.com

DESPITE THE DEPRESSING NATURE OF THE LYRICS, WE NEVER HAD ANY INTENTION OF MAKING A MISERABLE RECORD

ZILCH PATROL

Outside of friends, family, ardent Bandcamp enthusiasts and folks at their first (and at the time of writing, only) gig, word of Zilch Patrol’s arrival has yet to propagate among North Eastern music circles. And yet, even at this fledgling stage, guitarist Michael Bridgewater notes that their sharp, mechanised rock is reaching ears in unlikely places…

“Somehow, the few tracks we’ve released have circulated among community and college radio stations. We’ve been played in Massachusetts, San Francisco, South Dakota… even some station in Bulgaria! It’s fun to know that whole college rock scene and hardcore continuum is still going. These hosts are real nerds who’re actually invested in music – it’s not like some Spotify playlist has come and parked us under their noses.”

Vocalist Hannah Bridgewater is equally enthused: “I must admit, I do get a kick from hearing some random American say [affects accent] ‘This is Zilch Patrol! From out of Tyneside, England!’”

While Stateside fans can perhaps be excused, Zilch Patrol (married couple Michael and Hannah, plus bassist John Baldasera) are specifically and proudly based in Byker, and display scant regard for orthodoxies such as generating fanfare, or recruiting a living, breathing human to replace their trusty drum machine. A stalwart of acts such as Shy Talk and Waskerley Way, Michael established the group in 2021 with two principle motivations – to engineer a regimented, machine-like outfit somewhere in the nebula between Big Black and early Cocteau Twins; and to justify the several hundred sterling he’d dispensed in a lockdown guitar splurge.

“I had this romantic idea of actualising the sort of music I enjoy

I HAD THIS ROMANTIC IDEA OF ACTUALISING THE SORT OF MUSIC I ENJOY LISTENING TO

listening to, so I thought I’d record some of the riffs I’d been harbouring for a while,” he recalls. “Once I got rid of the ones which weren’t hard enough, I realised this solo project would make just as much sense being a full band.” There was one crucial snag: “I didn’t want to sing. But I thought melodic vocals would be a contrivance, so as far as technique goes the bar was pretty low…”

“Cheers!” Hannah chimes in.

“Let me backpedal on that!…We do a lot of karaoke, and Hannah’s always been very expressive and dynamic. We were driving to Grasmere for a wedding and listening to The Great Destroyer by Low, and I thought ‘Well, if they can do it and sustain it for as long as they did…’ It felt a bit like asking Hannah to marry me for a second time!”

Bearing a blank band CV, with only experiences at Cosy Joes and The Cluny’s NYE Grafteoke to call upon, Hannah nonetheless integrated with relative ease. “It’s been fun so far!” she insists, making little attempt to mask her surprise.

“Recording was nerve-racking, and I got imposter syndrome before soundchecking at our first gig – I knew I had no idea what I was doing, but nobody else did! – but once we reached the second song I started to loosen up.”

With an eponymous debut album ready to roll, an unflinching beat to keep pace with and further shows in the pipeline, that learning curve isn’t about to let up. On the strength of Compound’s automated groove, Negi Reserves’ relentless riff spiral and the raw speed of Brezhnev’s Moped, Zilch Patrol’s days as a Byker state secret are surely dwindling...

Zilch Patrol’s self-titled debut album is released on 6th October. The band play The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle on Saturday 28th October.

www.zilchpatrol.bandcamp.com

ALI WELFORD UNCOVERS THE EVOLUTION OF BYKER’S NOISE ROCK TRIO

SHOWER OF TEETH

MUSIC

Stepping back out of the shadows, Eternal Gut Rot, the new album by riff-heavy gang Shower of Teeth is as menacing as its title might suggest. Developed as a collection of songs trying to make sense, and elaborate on, recent societal themes, Eternal Gut Rot is an edgy piece of art, knocking bystanders out of the way with its hard edge.

Yet whilst the premise of Eternal Gut Rot may sound like one focused on decay and darkness, there is light at the heart of the album and a sense of distant optimism; something which may well be the centre of the album’s success.

“We started to write ideas during the first lockdown,” confirms Teeths-man Kye Walker, “and really we started with 70 odd riffs which we gradually turned into songs and longer pieces. And whilst there was some dread and fear during lockdown, you can see from some of the song titles that there were also some daft moments when we were writing and developing songs further.”  Taken over ten bangers, Eternal Gut Rot sees Shower of Teeth develop further in their hard rock/punk aesthetics; progressing nicely from such rockets as Vagabondage and Eccies And Accas from earlier releases. Highlights Long Live The New Flesh and Wizard of Loneliness see the band develop their sound into deeper, more expansive moments; pushing their force into more hard edged yet sensitive elements.

“When we worked together in lockdown we really bonded over riffs and also a general spiral into madness, and I think part of that was to change our approach to our music and to try new things and test new ideas – many of which made it through to the album.”

Combining various musical themes and production, though

rooted in heavy grooves, Eternal Gut Rot is a clear progression from a band formed out of a love for heavy yet accessible riffs. “We did try to keep a certain sound with these songs, but we do feel excited and energised both by the songs and also the opportunity to get out and play them live.”

A short tour in support of the album release is already planned. “We’ve got dates in the diary which will include a launch party in Sunderland where we think we’ll play the album front to back.” And there are plans for a follow-up to the album, with new music in the works. “With this album being made in lockdown there were a few delays in one way and another, so we feel we’ve been living with this album for a while and so we’re already developing new songs – which is made even better by the fact that we don’t need to develop songs virtually.”

Another immediate next step for the band is going back and working on earlier cuts from the album, offering further proof that the band are always seeking to improve and develop. “Kye’s a wizard on the guitar,” confirms drummer Dan, “and we were so impressed by all of his ideas so we do want to go back and have a look at what ideas we didn’t get to during lockdown.”

Shower of Teeth release Eternal Gut Rot on 29th September. They play The Bunker, Sunderland on Friday 6th October. www.showerofteeth.com

DAMIAN ROBINSON CHATS WITH THE HARDCORE SLACKER ROCKERS ABOUT THEIR RIFF-HEAVY NEW ALBUM

WHEN WE WORKED TOGETHER IN LOCKDOWN WE REALLY BONDED OVER RIFFS AND ALSO A GENERAL SPIRAL INTO MADNESS

Image by Jordan Embleton

LISTINGS

THE BEST OF THE REST… EVEN MORE ALTERNATIVE MUSIC, THEATRE, COMEDY, ART AND FILM TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT THE NORTH EAST THIS MONTH

MONDAY 2ND OCTOBER

GANG OF FOUR

Revered post-punk band // Boiler Shop, Newcastle

JORDS

London rapper whose skyscraping sound celebrates Black culture in full technicolour // Bobiks, Newcastle

TUESDAY 3RD OCTOBER

HONEYBLOOD

Scottish indie rock artist // Bobiks, Newcastle

THE COMEDY CUP

A unique event of anarchic fun, in which host Gavin Webster invites local comedians to battle it out for the Howay The Laughs trophy // The Stand, Newcastle

THURSDAY 5TH OCTOBER

DAN DONNELLY

Versatile indie rock musician with an impressive pedigree, support from Ruby Kelly and Ozzy // NE Volume Music Bar, Stockton

IDENTITIES

Co-created with women who have experience of breast cancer and those who treat them, Identities unclasps the hidden adventures our boobs go on; the good, the bad and the silly. Also on Friday 6th // Northern Stage, Newcastle

SARA WOLFF

Eclectic songwriter, plus support from folk artist Chris Brain // Cobalt Studios, Newcastle

FRIDAY 6TH OCTOBER

FAILED TO IGNITE

Solo pop-punk artist who utilises loop pedals, guitar and drum pads to present a unique sound, supported by Connection State and Last Case Scenario // The Globe, Newcastle

KATHRYN WILLIAMS & POLLY PAULUSMA

The talented songwriters bring their double-header tour to Newcastle // The Common Room, Newcastle

VANDEBILT

Pop fuelled by danceable riffs and chunky basslines // Pop Recs Ltd., Sunderland

SATURDAY 7TH OCTOBER

FEATURED // A Reflection In Time

A live reading of Ian Giles’ fictional radio drama about the life-long relationship between two male servants who worked for Bolckow and Vaughan, the founders of the iron ore industry in Middlesbrough. The resultant work places gay people at the heart of the narrative, and reinserts Queer people back into dominant histories // MIMA, Middlesbrough

BIG MOUTH COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Ryan Cullen, Jeff Innocent, Kate Martin and Matt Reed // Middlesbrough Town Hall

DAMIAN LEWIS

Actor Damian Lewis presents his roosty rock and roll // The Glasshouse, Gateshead

ESTHER MANITO

In Hell Hath No Fury, Esther Manito is at her most passionate and opinionated // The Stand, Newcastle

HEAVY LUNGS

Noise rock band // The Cluny 2, Newcastle

HILARITY BITES COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Alun Cochrane, Gareth Waugh and Sammy Dobson // The Forum Music Centre, Darlington

MAMABEAR

American indie rock, support from The Casbahs and Joe + Ryan Petitjean // NE Volume Music Bar, Stockton

ROD PICOTT

Acclaimed American singer-songwriter // The Globe, Newcastle

RULED BY RAPTORS

Post-hardcore band, supported by Go Go Midgets and Wyres // Head of Steam, Newcastle

SUNDAY 8TH OCTOBER

BEEHOOVER

Riff-heavy noise rock two-piece // Little Buildings, Newcastle

DIZZEE RASCAL

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of his groundbreaking Boy In Da Corner album // Utilita Arena, Newcastle

WEDNESDAY 11TH OCTOBER

DUBINSKI

Alt. indie quartet, supported by Bugman // The Engine Room, North Shields

FOIL, ARMS & HOG

Renowned comedy sketch group // Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle

THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER

PC WORLD

Industrial punk // The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle

FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER

GASPER NALI

Malawian roots one-man band // Star & Shadow Cinema, Newcastle

JAMIE FARRELL

Pop/rock artist, supported by Red Remedy and Pretty Velvet // The Globe, Newcastle

FEATURED //

Matt Rugg: Organic Form

Corresponding with a major retrospective of Matt Rugg’s work at Hatton Gallery, a selection of original drawings, most of which have never been exhibited before, reveal some of the processes with form and colour at play in his work, with all works for sale. Runs until 18th Nov // Gallagher & Turner, Newcastle

THE SHERLOCKS

Thrilling rock ‘n’ roll band // Newcastle University Students’ Union

SATURDAY 14TH OCTOBER

ENGLAND & SON

One-man play written specifically for the award-winning political comedian Mark Thomas, in which disaster capitalism, empire, stolen youth and stolen wealth merge into the simple tale of a workingclass boy who just wants his dad to smile at him // Northern Stage, Newcastle

FIONA LIQUID & THE CLIQUE

Raucous punky electronica, with support from MXYM, Fashion Tips and Horror Face // The Globe, Newcastle

LAURA BELBIN

Best-selling author and social media comedy sensation Laura Belbin is a brilliant antidote to the unrealistic, sugar-coated portrayal of ‘perfect’ motherhood // The Stand, Newcastle

MAX COOPER

Electronic artist // Boiler Shop, Newcastle

RIVAL SONS

Exciting rock and rollers // NXNewcastle

SWANSEA SOUND

Indie pop-punk, supported by Milky Wimpshake // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

THE JAPANESE HOUSE

Nostalgic indie pop // Newcastle University Students’ Union

YOUTH SECTOR

Brighton five-piece art rockers // Bobiks, Newcastle

SUNDAY 15TH OCTOBER

SUPERSUCKERS

Rebellious high-energy blend of punk, cowpunk and hard rock, supported by The Warner E Hodges Band // The Cluny, Newcastle

TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER

ELLIE GOWERS

Dynamic folk artist, supported by Sam Baxter // Cobalt Studios, Newcastle

SAM BAXTER & MERLE HARBRON

Local fiddle duo Sam Baxter and Merle Harbron are joined by Norwegian/Swedish

fiddle duo Astrid Garmo and Ester

Thunander for a very special night of folk and traditional music from their respective homelands // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

THE ATOMIC BITCHWAX

Riotous rock ‘n’ roll // Anarchy Brewery, Newcastle

THURSDAY 19TH OCTOBER

CHRIS KELLY

Self-described ‘sad song’ musician, with support from Oli Ng and Remy CB // Little Buildings, Newcastle

FRANK SKINNER

The comedy legend brings his acclaimed new show, 30 Years of Dirt, to Middlesbrough // Middlesbrough Town Hall

IKARIA

A love story about finding salvation in someone else. Runs until Saturday 21st // Laurels, Whitley Bay

FRIDAY 20TH OCTOBER

FEATURED //

Candid

After making quite the impression at this year’s Stockton Calling, the Coventry five-piece return for a set of catchy indie rock typified by honest songwriting, searing guitar riffs and irresistible drum beats // KU, Stockton

GREAT NORTH NIGHTS: AFTERLIFE AFTERHOURS

An insightful and captivating evening which delves into the theme of death and the afterlife, featuring a puppet show, live drawing, discussions from experts on Roman curses and magical rites, Bronze Age burials, storytelling, performance and much more // Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle

HILARITY BITES COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Paul F. Taylor, Liam Pickford, Mandy McCarthy and MC Andy Fury // Bishop Auckland Town Hall

PUNISHMENT OF LUXURY

Post-punks // The Peacock, Sunderland

SHOE CAKE COMEDY CLUB

Featuring The Discount Comedy Checkout alongside MC Chris Lumb and more hilarious guests // The Georgian Theatre, Stockton

YUMI & THE WEATHER

Synth-drenched indie pop // Bobiks, Newcastle

SATURDAY 21ST OCTOBER

JO CAULFIELD

Razor-sharp observations abound in Jo

Caulfield’s new show, Here Comes Trouble // The Witham, Barnard Castle

THE SADIES

Canadian country rock band // The Cluny 2, Newcastle

SUNDAY 22ND OCTOBER

CANONBALL STATMAN

Soulful and surreal songwriter // The Waiting Room, Eaglescliffe

GUITAR WOLF

Japanese garage rockers known for their high energy performances and punk rock sound, supported by The Coyote Men // The Cluny, Newcastle

THE ROSIE HOOD BAND

Captivating songwriter whose honest interpretations of traditional folk and poetic original material has received rave reviews // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

MONDAY 23RD OCTOBER

ENGLISH TEACHER

Leeds-based post-punk quartet, support from Alien Chicks // The Cluny 2, Newcastle

KATHRYN TICKELL & THE DARKENING

Northumbrian folk // Gala Theatre, Durham

TUESDAY 24TH OCTOBER

KID CONGO & THE PINK MONKEY BIRDS

The legendary American guitarist and singer returns with his garage psych band in tow // The Cluny, Newcastle

NATURE TV

Soulful indie pop, supported by Joe Ramsey // Little Buildings, Newcastle

RIVKALA

Jazz-inflected with soul, disco and indie rock influences // Black Swan Venue & Bar, Newcastle

WEDNESDAY 25TH OCTOBER

BLACK BALLET: PIONEERS

The award-winning choreographers preview and original works, blending ballet, music and poetry // Gala Theatre, Durham

LISA O’NEILL

Unique folk songwriter // The Fire Station, Sunderland

THE CASE OF CHARLES DEXTER WARD

Based on the HP Lovecraft novel and reimagined for the stage, The Case of Charles Dexter Ward tells of a troubled young man who disappeared from a psychiatric hospital without a trace. A doctor determined to find the truth, no matter how horrifying. Also on Thursday 26th // Laurels, Whitley Bay

TO LIVE A THOUSAND YEARS IN ONE POEM

This solo exhibition from artist Jack Lewdjaw draws on the format of the artists’ manifesto in an attempt to understand something about the future. Runs until Sunday 29th // 36 Lime Street, Newcastle

THURSDAY 26TH OCTOBER

JONATHAN HONOUR

The launch of Jonathan’s new album, Throwback. Support from Ross Alexander Holly, Brass Moonkey and Amelia Boorman // The Globe, Newcastle

FRIDAY 27TH OCTOBER

WREST

Heartfelt Edinburgh indie rock // The Cluny, Newcastle

SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER

CAT RYAN

The art rock group celebrate the launch of their debut EP // Bobiks, Newcastle

ROB CORCORAN

Dublin troubadour // Claypath Deli, Durham

SUNDAY 29TH OCTOBER

FEATURED // Bob Fischer: The Haunted Generation

The author and broadcaster takes a look at the weirder side of his 1970s and 80s childhood, featuring tall tales, jumbled memories, urban folklore and maybe even a song or two // The Waiting Room, Eaglescliffe

MONDAY 30TH OCTOBER

RUDI CRESWICK & NI MAXINE

This split headline tour will feature groovy bass-driven sounds and classic jazz vocals from a pair of artists who are at the forefront of the modern jazz sound // The Cluny, Newcastle

TUESDAY 31ST OCTOBER

CROWLEY

Celebrate Samhain with hard rock five-piece Crowley, plus support Tanith // The Cluny, Newcastle

HAPPY HALLO-QUEER

Mack and Mama Rhi invite audiences to channel their inner monster for a night of cabaret tricks, treats and sexy beats // Alphabetti, Newcastle

REVIEWS

GENERATOR LIVE @ BOILER SHOP, NEWCASTLE (16.09.23)

Words: Jonathan Coll

Generator Live was first established in the summer of 2022, with the aim of championing local talent with performances across some of the region’s most iconic venues. This September’s edition at the Boiler Shop was the strongest iteration yet, with an eclectic line-up all delivering stellar performances.

Generator itself dates all the way back to 1991, with Little Comets’ lead singer Robert Coles making a particular point of thanking them during their sub-headline performance. The local favourites absolutely stole the show, in just the way I hoped they might. They rattled through a setlist which included old favourites Joanna and One Night In October, which took me straight back to an indie club dancefloor in 2010. They also found room for some new material, which sounds exactly as fresh as it did all those years ago.

They were ably supported by the emerging rapper and multiinstrumentalist Dylan Cartlidge, who added the Boiler Shop crowd to his growing fanbase. He turned to his audience to ask for a series of random words, which he’d sculpted into a freestyle rap before I’d returned from the bar. He’s a rare talent, and one you should go out of your way to see.

Numerous other acts, including Me Lost Me, Lizzie Esau, Venus Grrrls, Avalanche Party and Ernie also turned in stellar performances. Hannabiel and the Midnight Blue are another name I’ll be keeping a close eye on. A joyful, effervescent musical collective who rounded the night off perfectly. Benefits, on the other hand, were brimming with righteous anger and thundering instrumentals, and the fact that the two acts were sharing one stage is the perfect distillation of what makes Generator Live so thrilling.

DEVON SPROULE, MARKER STARLING @ GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE, NEWCASTLE (16.09.23)

Words: Lee Hammond

Having played in the area exactly a week ago at The Unthanks’ shindig, it proved a treat to have Devon Sproule back so quickly. Marker Starling opens the show, his sound somewhere between BC Camplight and John Grant, coupled with amusing tales slotted in between songs it’s a charming set to start the night.

Little Comets by Idene Roozbayani

Having already made an appearance during Marker Starling’s set. Devon retakes the stage and regales this incredibly attentive crowd with beautiful stories and even more delicate songs. Deeper Summer, The Big Foot Trail and All Together In The Shadow all stand out, the silent crowd left in awe with each track. The command she has is magical tonight, holding the audience in the palm of her hand. Devon also brings out Maxïmo Park’s Paul Smith for an excellent rendition of You Can’t Help It from her album Colours. As her set closes, it’s tracks like The Gold String and Nobody Tells Me A Thing that continue to captivate the crowd. There is a real effortlessness to her delivery, her passion flowing through each of these tracks. Her backing band provide a delicate undercurrent, with Chris Cummings’ vocals adding to a lot of tracks from Colours. Evenings like these feel rare, there is a genuine delight across the room that is reciprocated from the stage. A truly brilliant show from Devon Sproule.

TELEVISION PERSONALITIES, SLALOM D @ POP RECS LTD., SUNDERLAND (09.09.23)

Words: Elodie A. Roy I always thought of Dan Treacy as the living soul of Television Personalities. But Treacy, though he’s still alive, has sadly been confined to a nursing home for years. A handful of his former bandmates – Jowe Head, Dave Musker, Lee McFadden, Mike Stone, Jeff Bloom – have got back together to perform the old songs.

These are gently crazed tunes, full of light and melancholy joy. The band take turn in singing – occasionally slipping into Treacy’s childish vocal mannerisms. It is infinitely moving to hear again underground hits such as Salvador Dali’s Garden Party, Part-Time Punks, Geoffrey Ingram and Happy All The Time. I notice that TVPs appear to be much less shambolic without their leader – they play a full 90-minute set and manage to sound almost professional, as if not having him in the band any more forced them to play better than they ever did. Together they manage to conjure Treacy up again, although too few people witness the miracle: the venue is half deserted. TVPs were supported by Sunderland group Slalom D – quite an odd choice considering Treacy’s tender aversion for paint by number punk. But they certainly knew how to make people dance.

FINN FORSTER, LIZZIE ESAU, COSIAL @ MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL CRYPT (15.09.23)

Words: Steve Spithray

There were supports, of course there were. Still hot of foot from a recent Maida Vale sesh, Hartlepool’s Cosial aired a couple of new tracks including the Mazzy Star-esque Be That Guy, while Lizzie Esau’s rocking but equally country-ish The Enemy also helped warm things up early doors. But tonight’s BBC Introducing sponsored show was all about one person.

For the last few years there has been a folk rock shaped hole in the Teesside music scene which is now finally ready to be filled. Celebrating the end of a UK tour, Finn Forster and his band are now confident enough to open with long-time fan favourite Circles quickly followed by their first new track of the set, the instantly catchy On My Mind, another upbeat relationship romp. It’s a marked move away from the Paulo Nutini stylings of yore into full heartlands rock balladeering. Most recent single Can’t Back Down already sits snugly in the set like an old friend and finishing with another newie, Grey Skies, is a similarly confident move.

Returning for a cover of James Brown’s It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World, a stunning solo rendition of Over & Over Again and a crowd pleasing Stay Right Till The End wraps things up in some style. There was a time nobody knew what to do with Finn Forster, but now is his time to shine.

DEXYS @ O2 CITY HALL, NEWCASTLE (10.09.23)

Words: Damian Robinson

Taking to the stage in a red and white stripped sailor outfit, and having recently released the imaginative Feminine Divine album, there’s clearly no slowing down of Kevin Rowland’s creative and performance stimulus. Playing The Feminine Divine album in full, Rowland and his five-piece band perform as if they were half a century younger; still bursting with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to use music as a vehicle to connect and emote. The trip-hop styled first set closer Dance

With Me highlights a first half where Rowland’s voice, and stage-acting, showcases a uniquely Dexys show; equally heartbreaking and performative as it is spontaneous and joyful.

A second half ‘greatest hits’ set pounds harder still, with Plan B and I’ll Show You standing out until the final flurry of Come On Eileen, Geno and Jackie Wilson (complete with an ‘in-joke’ reference to Jockie Wilson) combine to equal a trio of songs as good as anything you’ll find in British pop.

The tender Carrickfergus, soundtracked by images of Dexys throughout the years, and a knowing nod to the passage of time, is a heartbreaking end to a performance by an artist known for always putting everything they’ve had into their art. A genuine original. Superb.

JOHNNY MARR, COURTNEY DIXON @ MIDDLESBROUGH EMPIRE (25.08.23)

Words: Damian Robinson

Based on tonight’s performance, the two (or so) year transformation of Courtney Dixon from singer-songwriter to savvy pop star is almost nearing completion. Developing into a combination of glam pop with the sweetest of melodies, Dixon in both her songs and performance continues to reach newer heights and develop greater confidence. Standing out tonight with recent pop banger Stop This Party, Dixon swaggers and shimmies to the catchy undercurrent of her blend of pop. It’s seriously good and a fitting warm-up for tonight’s headliner. Blazing on stage to the pocket-rocket of Armatopia, what tonight shows is that Johnny Marr’s ten-year plus stack of solo tunes sits well inside of past, and better known, hits. An early rendition of Panic may prove tonight’s highlight – though the one-two combination of Ariel and New Town Velocity come pretty close – if not ‘just’ for the way they allow Marr to demonstrate serious guitar and songwriting skills. A lovely version of Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want and a belting performance of fan favourite Easy Money also provide evidence that Marr really has got one of the best back catalogues in the business.

Finn Forster by Tracy Hyman

Future Islands by Victoria Wai

DEERHOOF, LOTS OF HANDS @ POP RECS LTD., SUNDERLAND (24.08.23)

Words: Dominic Stephenson

Geordie-via-Leeds quintet Lots of Hands were on support duties for Deerhoof, and it was surprising to see how young they are. They’re part of a new lineage bridging post-punk into sprawling post-rock, and paint this merger with the use of flute and saxophone, boisterous basslines and delicate vocals. Although still honing the exactitudes of their sound, they emit a wholesomeness which will take them a long way. The term ‘cult following’ gets thrown around a lot but can best describe noise pop pioneers Deerhoof. Nearly three decades into their career and with the same line-up since 2008, the quartet are still finding new ways to divulge in mercurial experimentalism. Zig-zagging rhythms and erratic song structures are their benchmark and there was plenty of that, as they trampolined between sugary power pop, jittery garage funk and everything in between. Ribbed basslines and lustrous guitar solos texturise this mosaic, and you can see why the manic drumming of Greg Saunier has influenced John Dwyer of Osees, amongst infamous others. He interjected with a dry witted monologue to announce they’d be playing a few songs from their 19th and most recent LP, which is the first to be recorded fully in a studio and also the first to be sung entirely in bassist/vocalist Satomi Matsuzaki’s native Japanese. This included the characteristic My Lovely Cat!, as fluttering vocals and choppy melody wrapped up this bubbly avant-rock outing. Playfulness is the blueprint for this band and from this dazzling show, you can see why they’re still beloved by so many.

FUTURE ISLANDS @ MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL (28.08.30)

Words: Leigh Venus

After kicking off with For Sure and Hit The Coast from their sixth studio album, a swift look at the crowd confirmed the usual fifty-fifty mix of adoring fans and baffled newbies.

The Baltimore synth-poppers have been infused with performance art since their inception in 2006, these abstract roots brought to vivid life through lyricist and all-consuming front person Sam Herring’s incredible presence; drenched in sweat almost immediately through his wildly dynamic dance moves, Herring is pure, unfiltered raw emotion, his astonishing gyrations bolstered by a warm, rich wave of synthy goodness from the band, his lyrics deftly balancing the profoundly

personal and the soaringly universal.

As the Future Islands first-timers looked on agog, the band forged a surfeit of new fans with hits Ran and Seasons, alongside newer bops like last year’s King of Sweden (cryptically announced with “this song is about why they’re called plans, not directions”) and a stellar triple-encore with Long Flight, Tin Man and Thrill, the last song digging back down to their roots and the conflicting feelings of isolation and affirmation inherent to small-town life.

Nothing less than hypnotic – and often incandescently beautiful – while Future Islands aren’t quite the Marmite of bands, they are certainly an acquired taste, and from the conversations overheard afterwards from the first-timers, it’s clear many will be heading back for a second helping.

VERITAS FESTIVAL @ TRILLIANS, NEWCASTLE (27.08.23)

Words: Damian Robinson

For rock and hardcore fans, you can’t really get better than this year’s Veritas Festival. Filled with purpose-driven rock, the eight band line-up proves to have much to offer for all rock fans, regardless of specific favourite flavours of the genre. Openers St Buryan, Redwood Grove, Belcarra and Dutch Elm all deserve huge credit for both their sets and maturity to play a little earlier in the day than they should.

By the time Ruled By Raptors appear, the atmosphere is in overdrive, with the band morphing into an ultra-powerful outfit complete with standout tune Algebra. A quick turnaround sees local heroes Kkett blaze into their half-pantomime-half-punk show filled with as many laughs as hard riffs. Standing out with new track, the delightfully titled Obsessive Carrier Bad Disorder, Kkett are on fine form – partly due to the rumble from their two duelling basses. All of which proves a fine tune-up for the superb musicianship of Hivemind; filled with pop-flavoured energy, the band sparkle with a sound that may catch national attention with a little bit of luck and the right management. A handover to headliners, the exceptionally powerful Ten Eighty Trees, sees the trio blazing through whatever energy anybody has left and standing out with their most recent single, Little Sparks.

TRACKS

REVIEWS OF SINGLES AND EPS BY NORTH EAST ARTISTS. WANT YOUR MUSIC FEATURED? EMAIL NARCMEDIA@GMAIL.COM

(PLEASE TRY TO GET IN TOUCH 8-6 WEEKS AHEAD OF THE MONTH OF RELEASE)

SIMON TAYLOR KARMA EP

Words: Lily Pratt

Newcastle’s Simon Taylor releases his new EP, Karma, in which he draws upon the lyrical ancestry of artistry greats such as Leonard Cohen and Serge Gainsbourg. Judgement Day is a soft yet rousing track and ruminates on “What you gonna do when they come for you?” in a dynamic ballad of rock and folk.

Taylor’s tracks feature beautifully silky vocals and assured percussion, which both propel his tracks and give warmth to them. Like An Angel captures a Leonard Cohen-esque element, as the confluence between song and poetry within Taylor’s EP makes it a poetic and musical masterpiece.

Released: 06.10.23

www.simontaylormusic.com

THE PALE WHITE A NEW BREED EP

Words: Tom Astley

The Pale White return with a new six-track EP full of firework distortion, whiplash mood swings, beautiful melodies and a perfectly captured wildness. For a three-piece, the sound on the EP is kaleidoscopic. There are moments where myriad guitar parts all meld, lead howls over layers of fuzz, subtle chorus whorls, that evoke the complex cornucopia of Siamese Dream.

There are moments where chord sequences confound the ear, and a couple of lyrical moments which mirror the self-aware wryness of the Arctic Monkeys, but these are offset by the band’s penchant for the quiet-loud-quiet grunge aesthetic. This bend of sounds makes each song a self-contained rock opera with enough intricate sonic nooks and crannies to keep you exploring for multiple listens.

Released: 20.10.23

www.thepalewhite.com

MAIUS MOLLIS REST OF MY LIFE

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

Leeds-born, North Shields-based Maius Mollis has been garnering a lot of positive attention with a string of excellent single releases, showcasing her immaculately melancholy writing. Rest Of My Life is more full-blooded than her previous releases, with bursts of Greenwood-ish hooks circling around Mollis’ exceptionally candid lyrics.

Her voice is front and centre, and it cuts a vulnerable shade, almost conversational in tone, breaking beautifully in moments of emotional intensity: Kim Deal is an immediate reference point. Strikingly, Rest Of My Life sounds great, making spacious, subtle and nuanced use of guitar, drums and bass. A total earworm that wouldn’t sound out of place on daytime radio, and a real achievement. Maius Mollis is a great songwriter and it’s exciting to anticipate where she goes from here.

Released: 13.10.23

www.linktr.ee/maiusmollis

PIT PONY ACCIDENTAL DOOM

Words: Matt Young

Long before the release of their acclaimed debut album World To Me and the accompanying and justified plaudits, Pit Pony have consistently been on an upward trajectory. It’s due to hard graft, but I’m sure is equally gratifying in return. Within this praise however come unnecessary judgements from some quarters. Accidental Doom addresses this point head on with singer Jackie commenting on the exposing nature of being centre stage, particularly as a woman in music, and how the mere thought of judgement should be enough to make you think before you speak. Musically, Pit Pony are as adrenaline-fuelled as ever. The quiet intro and false ending in the song’s latter half are playful, but it’s the honesty and energy that sells their message so powerfully.

Released: 13.10.23

www.pitponyband.bandcamp.com

Image by Jon Forster

ERNIE AWFULLY STRANGE

Words: Matt Young

Songwriter Joe Earnest Allen, the ‘Ernie’ in this particular project, has a prolific output. It feels like the stories he tells in song are pouring out of him and each successive release adds more colour and character to his musical world.

Awfully Strange is a nostalgia-tinged tale of wayward drunken antics, youthful misadventures tempered with regret, both in song/dream form and maybe given the passage of time too. The sweeping slide guitar and lush strings wrap the song into that rose-tinted, half-remembered holiday gauze and as it builds the song’s rousing finale powers home with bells clanging. You can definitely hear how he earned his recent Sam Fender support and recently signed with EMI/Gravity when he has so much to offer.

Released: 12.10.23

www.erniethechef.co.uk

CHARLOTTE FORMAN BABY OF MINE

Words: Niamh Poppleton

Charlotte Forman’s latest single was written in honour of her friend who lost a child to stillbirth, and it’s a heart-wrenching, jazz-inspired piece – a morose tale of grief and loss. Reminiscent of Adele rhythmically, and similar vocally to Lady Gaga’s slower tracks, Baby Of Mine is a heartbreaking song that leaves you numb and hurting. Simultaneously, it reminds us of music’s purpose: to make us feel.

Accompanied by sonorous and slow piano keys that set the mood from the track’s first seconds, she describes the part of life that feels void and empty – a missing piece that’s hard to put into words. It’s a visceral track describing the all-consuming emptiness of child loss and how the grief never truly leaves you.

Released: 20.10.23

www.linktr.ee/charlotteforman

WILLIAM CAWLEY DOMESTIC BLISS EP

Words: Niamh Poppleton

Durham musician and producer William Cawley’s distinctive EP, Domestic Bliss, is a psychological analysis of society spanning a number of genres. Opening with One More Before Tea Time, William’s incomparable vocals are teamed with loud guitar strings and a syncopated drumbeat, as he yearns to have the opportunity to create “one more song before teatime” Lead single Sunday Boyfriend is a study of online dating profiles and a discussion of the human desire to not be alone. Whitey Weekend teams a Beatles-esque melody with anatomical parts of 90s punk rock, whilst questioning the culture of society expecting us to “find someone”

Overall, Domestic Bliss is an interesting, creative conversation covering an extensive range of topics – a unique debut for William Cawley.

Released: 27.10.23

www.facebook.com/william.g.cawley

INDIA ARKIN

143

Words: Nat Greener

India Arkin’s 143 is a rock evolution that surprises with deep vocals and a catchy guitar hook. Initially indie-sounding, it morphs into a rocky/bluesy track around the 30-second mark, showcasing Arkin’s musical versatility. Her soulful lyrics resonate with listeners whilst remaining effortlessly sophisticated in her delivery.

Arkin’s transition from fine art to indie singer-songwriter is fascinating, reflecting the artistic evolution in 143. A glimpse of her idiosyncratic soundscapes on this latest offering makes you eager to explore more; 143 hooks you in with a unique blend of vocals and genre versatility, resulting in a must-listen for music enthusiasts seeking a fresh, melodic and engaging experience. Dive into Arkin’s discography and discover one of Newcastle’s most exciting emerging talents.

Released: 13.10.23

www.indiaarkin.com

KERRIN TATMAN OFFERTORIUM

Words: Michael O’Neill

The second single from their upcoming live album Requiem For A Fading World, Offertorium is a sprawling and vivid seven-minute piece which incorporates piano and incredible solo soprano from Emily Brown Gibson. The piece is rich in narrative, with Kerrin’s dextrous arrangements being brilliantly realised by the addition of live strings, creating a rich bed of sound for the intricate and complex narrative at play. Although this is only a portion of what promises to be an engaging and sprawling narrative, there is still a great sense of character and development within the lyrics, allowing the piece to truly stand on its own. All in all, it’s an immaculately crafted, engaging and imaginative hybrid of folk, classical and chamber music.

Released: 05.10.23

www.kerrintatman.co.uk

GONE TOMORROW CAROUSEL

Words: Michael O’Neill

Hailing from Stockton, this acclaimed indie alt. rock quintet have been steadily grafting away over the last couple of years, releasing a prolific streak of singles and supporting local titans like Benefits. Carousel is a brilliant endorsement of why they’ve come so far in such a short span of time.

Much like this year’s previous transmissions Matador and Lifelines, Carousel further finds the band fine-tuning their brutal, refreshingly singular and pummelling sonic assault, with some incredible production allowing the tight-knit arrangements to truly shine. There’s shades of the unorthodox creativity of Gilla Band but with the melodic and anthemic chops of classic alt. rock, and it is another brilliant statement from a gifted unit.

Released: 06.10.23

www.linktr.ee/gonetomorrowband

ZUDZ SUM EP

Words: Tom Astley

Zudz’s propulsive EP Sum is a four-track masterpiece of fuzz in perpetual motion. I previously described Yellow Chariot as an absolutely gorgeous punch in the face of a track. But in the context of the EP, it opens a door to a really intriguing mix of explosive noise and delicate melodic moments. Bound For Old Glory, in between bouts of wah-wah riffage, has some Abbey Road Macca-esque belted vocals. Richard Roll On Home has a 70s country blues rock feel, rolling over a 6/8 rhythm. The EP really broadens out the musical colours beyond the band’s self-professed ‘leftfield punk rock’. Zudz aren’t leftfield. They are a whole landscape painting of adjoining fields that make perfect sense together. This is a must-listen EP. Released: 27.10.23

www.linktr.ee/zudztree

PHANTOM PARTS I’VE SEEN IT ALL BEFORE

Words: Lily Pratt

Phantom Parts’ I’ve Seen It All Before is an eclectic rock ballad. The track is both exciting and original, with a sound which differs from other rock hits. The guitar and drums seem to be working overtime and the track is flooded with pulsating guitar riffs. The somewhat haunting voice in the song acknowledges a change in self and asks another “to do the same” There is most definitely an element of angry punk to the track, which can be most strikingly heard through the hungry guitar solos and everengulfing drum beats. This track will scratch any nagging itch you have for new fresh rock sounds.

Released: 06.10.23

www.phantomparts.bandcamp.com

DEMOS

WE WANT YOUR MUSIC!

IF YOU’RE AN UP AND COMING BAND OR MUSICIAN, AND WOULD LIKE YOUR MUSIC REVIEWED IN OUR DEMO SECTION, EMAIL A TRACK TO NARCMEDIA@GMAIL.COM AND TELL US MORE ABOUT YOURSELF!

WORDS: TOM ASTLEY

DEMO OF THE MONTH

Damian Mills – Conscious

Damian Mills’ acoustic pensive track plays out as an occluded, cryptic mini-masterpiece. Supplementing a strong vocal and complementary acoustic guitar picking which provide the backbone of a strong folk-inflected song, is an orchestration that gets more complex in subtle ways that continue to take the listener by surprise.

Snippets of distorted vocals panned hard left and then hard right, drenching tails of reverb, bleeding out into maudlin moans and whispers a quiet howl of an electric guitar, possibly with ebow, that gives it the sound of a clarinet. The result is a song that requires multiple listens to fully unpack the complexities of the sounds behind this straightforward and impactful song. www.instagram.com/damianmillsmusic

Breakaway NE – Whirlpools

There’s an unpretentious straightforwardness about the stripped-down three-piece rock of Breakaway NE. Alumni of the Jesmond rock project, aimed at getting people back into playing music, it’s encouraging to hear a band making music for the enjoyment of getting together.

Whirlpools has a slightly disjointed quality to it. Slower verses, double-time drums in instrumental choruses featuring a classic rock (not quite) 12-bar blues riff. This means it’s hard to place the structure, but each element of the ensemble is clear, concise and fresh, meaning that when that riff jumps in, the listener is given a spark, a little taster of what this group can do. Long may their musical conversations continue. www.breakaway-ne.bandcamp.com

Logan Jai – Remember

Logan Jai’s debut single Remember manages to capture a dramatic, almost musical theatre quality in just the sound of searing vocals and piano. The track builds this aesthetic in its brief two-minute run time through dark, unrelenting lyrics aimed squarely and accusatorily at an unnamed ‘you’. This is a

breakup song – it’s angry, it’s aggressive (with F-bombs aplenty) and, as Logan explains, is aimed at empowering audiences who have been subjected to toxic behaviour from partners.

This song feels like more of a snippet of some longer, musically interconnected saga, than a demo of a self-contained song. It starts and it ends, but it feels like the song needs to continue on. Bring on full reprises, brass sections, duets and codas!

www.instagram.com/loganjaii

Seventh Heaven – Epiphany

Seventh Heaven have a healthy influence from the more sophisticated end of the grunge spectrum, there’s elements of Pearl Jam and perhaps Alice In Chains. The track barrels along, perfectly structured, with some gorgeous pauses and drum fills. The whole song is confident and brash, loud and assured. It’s great. But the stand-out component is the vocals, which stand out in this track for all the opposite reasons. There’s none of the expected posturing, belting histrionics of grunge hall-of-famers, or even of contemporaries like Hayley Williams, though there’s perhaps subtle points of comparison

with both in Steph Mackey’s vocal take. The vocal stands out through its unadorned musicality. Melodic without being melismatic, the lyrics have a sincerity to them that rise above the powerful distorted guitars.

www.seventhheaven.band

Jake Major – Ventures Through Space and Time

The dial on Jake Major’s Delorian is firmly stuck slap bang in the middle of the 1980s. Or more precisely, in that decade’s image of the future. It’s a strange(r) thing how the sound of the future – of Vangelis’s future-LA city scape, a significant reference for Major – has become the nostalgic sound of the past (The future of the original Blade Runner – 2019 –is now the past… and the real 2019 was arguably more dystopian than Ridley Scott’s belching flame stacks). Major clearly loves the soundworld he is emulating here. A polyphonic morass of squelch that is expertly held together. A tsunami of square waves oscillating through the stratosphere. It’s all perfectly realised, and an excellent companion piece for a future-past nostalgia trip.

www.jakemajor.hearnow.com

ALBUMS

THE JOHN POPE QUARTET CITRINITAS (NEW JAZZ & IMPROVISED MUSIC RECORDINGS)

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

4.5 / 5

SMOOVE AND TURRELL RED ELLEN (JALAPENO RECORDS)

Words: Robert Nichols

The Northern funksters’ seventh studio album is a real triumph. Gateshead’s Smoove And Turrell wear their social conscience firmly on their rich and opulent melodic musical sleeves on Red Ellen, an album that looks backwards to seek words and notes of hope, comfort and inspiration. Kicking off with a gospel choir and showering us with positive funky vibes, The Light makes a soulful platform for John Turrell to showcase his mighty vocals and truly let the love shine in. It is a towering opener.

This is a theme reaffirmed in the infectious boogie of single IGOTCHA, the uplifting Joy! and underlined in the vibrant Geno’s Discotheque. A shame it is fictitious, but a high flying chorus line will have you dancing on the ceiling at home, just like the flamboyance of magnificently bowl-haired keyboardist Mike Porter in the live setting.

Formed back in 2007, Smoove And Turrell have lit up many a festival and concert hall, but they are far more than just a live force, they have recorded a quality body of work in the studio over the years. They’re a mature force and can reign it all in to be mellow and reflective. Porter adds his striking synth appeal to the moving tribute of Mary’s Song. Electronica, a big feature of previous release Stratos Bleu, and modern beats are interspersed through the funk, soul and Northern soul revival of this collection. Empty Bottle Serenade finds John Turrell crooning in heart rending fashion. John, also lead songwriter, penned this as a tribute to founder member/producer Smoove’s late father. A jazz guitar solo from Lloyd Wright adds another dimension.

The musicianship is outstanding throughout. The arrangements ever thoughtful and allowing variance but work together as a unified whole, stamped throughout with groove and dance-ability. A rich harvest of outstanding songs climaxes to the rhythm of the Jarrow marchers with mighty anthem Red Ellen, an early female Labour politician and people’s champion who turned words into deeds and actions; Ellen’s humanity ripples and resonate down the decades. With Red Ellen, Smoove And Turrell are soulful and inspirational and primed to move mountains. Catch them in their live glory at Sunderland Fire Station on Saturday 14th and Forum Music Centre, Darlington on Friday 20th October.

Released: 27.10.23

www.smooveandturrell.com

ALSO OUT THIS MONTH

The Streets – The Darker The Shadow, The Brighter The Light (679 Recordings, 20.10) // Pip Blom – Bobbie (Heavenly Recordings, 20.10) // Sufjan Stevens – Javelin (Asthmatic Kitty Records, 06.10) // Maria Uzor –Soft Cuts (Castles In Space, 13.10) // The Goat Express – S/T (Communion, 06.10) // PAWS – S/T (Ernest Jenning Record Co, 27.10) // Wild Nothing – Hold (Captured Tracks, 27.10) // Metric – Formentera II (Metric Music International, 13.10) // Taking Back Sunday – 152 (Fantasy Records, 27.10) // Upchuck – Bite The Hand That Feeds (Famous Class Records, 13.10) // Adulkt Life – There Is No Desire (Jabs Records, 06.10) // Maple Glider – I Get Into Trouble (Partisan, 13.10) // Laura Misch – Sample The Sky (One Little Independent, 13.10)

// Israel Nash – Ozarker (Loose Music, 20.10) // Sparkling – We Are Here To Make You Feel (Moshi Moshi, 27.10) // Marta Del Grandi – Selva (Fire Records, 20.10) // Teeth of the Sea – Hive (Rocket Recordings, 06.10) // The Drums – Jonny (ANTI-, 13.10) // Caleb Nichols – Let’s Look Back (Kill Rock Stars, 13.10)

Newcastle’s John Pope Quartet hit a number of genuinely sweet spots on their modern, mellifluous and melodic take on Blue Note Jazz. Double bass player extraordinaire John Pope has put together an extraordinary cohort of musicians to realise his joyous vision, including Jamie Stockbridge on expressive saxophones, Faye MacCalman on tenor sax and clarinet, Graham Hardy on trumpet and flugelhorn and Johnny Hunter on drums.

Citrinitas zips with a pleasing spontaneity and joie de vivre. Recalling Mingus at his most irreverent, the eight songs traverse a spectrum of moods with a consistent emphasis on melody and movement, from more plaintive moments like Shadow Work to truly kinetic opener Free Spin. It all makes for a tremendously enjoyable listen, and embraces brevity rather well in spite of its scope and scale. Released: 06.10.23

www.johnpopebass.co.uk

4 / 5

CAFE MAGRANA

MICHAEL’S BOAT TOUR (BOTTOM DOG RECORDS)

Words: Robin Webb

Durham’s Cafe Magrana release a high-ish concept album in glorious lo-fi bedroom recorded pyjamas, traversing an imaginary seascape of emotional knots notched and unravelled. It has all the highs and lows of any decent nautical adventure played out amongst the sheets of any love lorn mind. I mean, I could keep this going but that bedroom won’t tidy itself.

It is low-tech, self-recorded and the vocals could be a little higher in the mix, but nothing takes away from the superbly indulgent song-smithing of these local kids. Catchy, masterful layers that I’d love to explore more, and I can see that live is the way to hear them spread their home-spun triumph, cracking stuff!

Released: 20.10.23

www.cafemagrana.bandcamp.com

CMAT CRAZYMAD, FOR ME (AWAL)

Words: Stephen Oliver

Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, otherwise known as CMAT, has created a second album which seeks its inspiration from a break-up of a long term relationship. As a listener you go through the three stages of ‘this guy sucks’, ‘what have I done wrong with my life’ and finally the acceptance and ‘getting on with the rest of your life’. There is a degree of anger and passion, however lyrically this is an accessible album.  The storytelling through each track has influences ranging from country to Jim Steinman’s Meatloaf, however, musically it keeps its light and indie feel. There is even room for some fiddles on the final track, perhaps flagging up some Irish roots too. It helps an album that is full of musical hooks finish on a high.

Released: 13.10.23

www.cmatbaby.com

GOAT MEDICINE (ROCKET RECORDINGS)

Words: Luke Waller

The history of experimental Swedish fusion collective GOAT is most mysterious, winding its way back decades to Korpilombolo, near the Finnish border. Yet only eleven years after recording their debut, fifth album Medicine is ready to be administered. Medicine marks an introspective return to the folk rock roots of the band, with the eerie sounds of flute piercing through lead-heavy guitar riffs on numerous tracks. Nevertheless, GOAT’s cosmopolitan instrumentation shines through brilliantly in moments, especially in the Indian-influenced TSOD, preceding the wah-wah-sodden rocker Vakna. Though featuring vocals throughout, Medicine is very much shepherded by its instrumental aspects. Marking the confluence of Dead Can Dance and Uncle Acid, GOAT’s new album is a musical adventure in which to lose oneself all too easily.

Released: 13.10.23

www.goat.bandcamp.com

GAZELLE TWIN BLACK DOG (INVADA RECORDS)

Words: Matt Young

Listening to Black Dog is akin to having an amorphous grasp on reality. Dreams, or more accurately, nightmares melt together. Visions are never fully revealed. The unsettling rhythms and organic seething, beats glitching, turn the listener inside out. This is very much a headspace album full of viscera and examined psyche.

The performances (songs) explore childhood fears, adult anxieties and then come full circle into fears for Elizabeth Bernholz’s own children as she narrates and warns. There’s a purging here of sorts, after looking externally for so many years, this album is highly personal but still doesn’t stint on the dark satire, pitch black ideas and unpicking of guts. You can see this translated live when Gazelle Twin play The Glasshouse (fka Sage Gateshead) on 16th November.

Released: 27.10.23

www.gazelletwin.com

THE DAVID TATTERSALL GROUP S/T (BELLA UNION)

Words: Elodie A. Roy

David Tattersall has been writing sparse, brilliantly candid anti-folk for about twenty years now. This is his first album for Bella Union, and his new songs sound very much like those he wrote with the Wave Pictures. He keeps returning to his favourite themes – moonlit nights and neon signs, long journeys, friendships and gently doomed love affairs. Every song is an autobiographical miniature, a story. Tattersall and his friends, old and new, play gracefully vulnerable music – in the vein of the Modern Lovers and the Silver Jews.

Tattersall’s songs are almost too delicate for this world and defiantly out of time – because there is no other way. And I have the greatest admiration for the fact that he’s never given up.

Released: 06.10.23

www.davidtattersall.bandcamp.com

TEEN JESUS AND THE JEAN TEASERS I LOVE YOU (DOMESTIC LA LA)

Words: Matt Young

Kicking off with the raucous duo of I Used To Be Fun and Treat Me Better, this new Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers album explodes out of the gate. Showcasing their slamming musical powers and harmonic group vocals, coupled with wry self-deprecation and compassionate lyrics, the band have widened the panorama of their sound and seem more confident across the range of material.

They explore vulnerabilities on the duet Salt featuring The Grogans, fixated adoration in title track I <3 You and regret on Never Saw It Coming. Band dynamics, personal relationships and camaraderie all feature strongly. Laughs and recording chat litter the album adding genuine colour and context. There’s so much fun on this record, a joy of performing and Lights Out is another banger amongst many.

Released: 06.10.23

www.teenjesusandthejeanteasers.net

THE GASLIGHT ANTHEM HISTORY BOOKS (RICH MAHOGANY RECORDS)

Words: James Hattersley

I’ve waited ten long frustrating years to get new material from New Jersey’s The Gaslight Anthem. Listening to History Books for the first time is like an ex reaching out in the dead of night – there’s a melancholic wistfulness, the excitement that you used to know, and the trepidation of what this means and where it’s all leading.

A natural evolution of their established sound, the album boasts what we’ve come to expect – occasional blasts of heavy rock riffs sandwiched between thoughtful and heartbreaking tenderness. Extremely personal lyrics explore themes of mental health and recovery, yet don’t forgo the sing-along quality TGA have become synonymous with. Despite a more sombre approach, History Books is a celebration. Man, it’s good to be alive.

Released: 27.10.23

www.thegaslightanthem.com

THE MENZINGERS SOME OF IT WAS TRUE (EPITAPH RECORDS)

Words: James Hattersley

And you know what they said? Well, Some Of It

Was True is the latest album from Philly’s rapscallions The Menzingers. Continuing the ever successful marriage between punk rock and folk storytelling, this album brings you into the rehearsal room, sits you upfront and whispers sweet nothings into your ears.

It contains everything you love about the band –the anthemic sing-alongs, the heartfelt touching moments and of course the personal and rollercoaster of emotions lyrics. It’s truly fantastic how The Menzingers have become elder statesmen for navigating your 30s and beyond, which is best displayed on the lead single There’s No Place In This World For Me.

Consistency has its comfort, and this album has that in spades. Don’t ever change.

Released: 13.10.23 www.themenzingers.com

HOLLY HUMBERSTONE PAINT MY BEDROOM BLACK (POLYDOR/ DARKROOM/GEFFEN)

Words: Caitlin Thomson

Humberstone’s debut album is a quiet explosion of feeling, as intimate as whispers in a dark room. A cohesive project filled with blues, car crashes, bones, moons and space. Loneliness and love twist through each well-crafted track, complemented by a gorgeous production: crackly tracks, percussion heartbeats, guitars, reverb and Humberstone’s quiet rasp glides over it all. Solitude spills from lyrics on Ghost Me, and self-aware apology Antichrist is thick with voice distortion and guilt. Romance is infused into the bassline of 1997-Romeo-and-Juliet-esque ballad Swimming Pools, while Into Your Room is layered with celestial keys, synth and riffs. Standout Cocoon describes a bad mental health patch with soft acceptance, the music expanding its wings before folding back in on itself expertly.

Released: 13.10.23

www.hollyhumberstone.com

MARY LATTIMORE

GOODBYE, HOTEL ARKADA (GHOSTLY INTERNATIONAL)

Words: Ali Welford

Weaving webs of hypnotic splendour from an ambient drone foundation, harpist and composer Mary Lattimore’s singular mastery of her craft knows few equals across the experimental and alt. folk spectrums. Though its roots remain in improvisation, the six serene, shimmering pieces which make up Goodbye, Hotel Arkada morphed during an “uncharacteristically measured” two-year process, which also welcomed guest contributions from Slowdive vocalist Rachel Goswell, ex-Cure man Lol Tolhurst and abstract guitarist Ray Montgomery, among others. The results largely forsake the timeless meanderings which made predecessor Silver Ladders such an entrancing trip, yet no structural walls can contain the air of celestial tranquillity only Lattimore can summon. Five albums in, the L.A. resident’s spell remains bewitching and wholly unbroken.

Released: 06.10.23

www.marylattimoreharpist.bandcamp.com

5

GOTTS STREET PARK ON THE INSIDE (BLUE FLOWERS)

Words: Ikenna Offor

On the strength of two well-received projects over the last five years, Gotts Street Park have inarguably established themselves as staunch stalwarts of the post-grime scene. Pulsing with warm grooves and infectious rhythms, the Leeds-based trio’s retro-modern sound keenly merges electronic and organic elements in a canorous blend of vivid melodies and ingenious loops, proffering an evocative aural experience steeped in vibey catharsis.

On The Inside, their long-awaited debut LP proper, harnesses this knack for vicarious intuity with aplomb: Rosie Lowe’s velveteen balladry on Summer Breeze strikes a scintillating balance between angsty and sultry, whilst elsewhere, an understated Enny waxes emotional over Mountain’s mellow backbeat. An indelibly satisfying triumph – one that cements these innately soulful jamsters as the real deal.

Released: 13.10.23

www.linktr.ee/gottsstreetpark

GENN UNUM (LIMINAL COLLECTIVE)

Words: Ali Welford

Amid the slew of post-punk debutants penetrating our consciousness with each passing month, nobody could accuse Brighton-based GENN of failing to stand out. Indeed, the tension which fuels unum lies in their sense of otherness – namely the day-by-day challenge of assimilating within an adopted hometown.

Shunning taut genre tropes, the quartet instead seek equilibrium in individuality, embracing their Maltese roots (‘Genn’ itself is Maltese for ‘frenzy’) and engaging with social issues such as the ongoing abortion ban blighting the nation. Showcasing rich dynamism and a bountiful jazz sensibility, unum leaves ample space for future exploration, yet when its melange of influences coalesce – as on the likes of Calypso and Wild West – it makes for an engrossing, eminently encouraging entrance.

Released: 06.10.23

www.genntheband.com

VANISHING TWIN AFTERNOON X (FIRE RECORDS)

Words: Ali Welford

Since debuting with 2016’s Choose Your Own Adventure, Vanishing Twin have occupied a worthy musical niche – namely that in the absence of a new Stereolab album, we might as well enjoy the next best thing. Even against this somewhat cynical framing, however, the band’s fourth full-length feels like a significant breakthrough.

Concocted by a slimmed creative core of vocalist Cathy Lucas, percussionist Valentina Magaletti and bassist Susumu Mukai, Afternoon X is a masterclass in minimal kosmisch; playful, audacious and remarkably self-assured; driven by curiosity and a process which values the journey over the destination. It makes for a frequently surprising, wholly engrossing experience – by some distance the group’s most singular, experimental and best record to date.

Released: 06.10.23

www.vanishingtwin.co.uk

MIXTAPE

WORDS: MICHAEL LUKE

I’m Michael Luke, I founded the Tees Valley International Film Festival, which is an event different from any other of its kind in the world. From the start, we aimed to build a film festival for the people, designed around fun and entertainment but with a major emphasis on learning. The long term goal being to kickstart a new generation of creatives, of all ages and backgrounds, across all aspects of the craft of filmmaking. The events that make up the festival are entirely unique and the initiatives we’ve designed to help achieve our long term goal are groundbreaking. Check out the TVIFF Scholarship and our Schedule of Events on our socials and website to find out more. Here are a few of my favourite tracks. www.tviff.co.uk

THE DOORS THE CHANGELING

I am a massive fan of The Doors. So much so that I visit Jim Morrison’s grave in Paris every year on the anniversary of his death. There are a group of us from all over the world that meet there every year, so my annual pilgrimage isn’t as sad as it might sound. The Doors have been a massive part of my life since I discovered them at the tender age of thirteen, so it would be wrong of me to start a playlist without a Doors song. The Changeling is the opening track from the LA Woman album which I also believe to be the finest opening album track of all time.

SUEDE HEROINE

As a teenager I was always drawn towards lyrics, and I think Brett Anderson from Suede is one of the best lyricists in modern music. I love the imagery of this song. The lyrics are filled with beauty and romance, invoking thoughts of a young man mourning the loss of his first love, but as the song develops it becomes clear that the protagonist is not pining for a lost love, he’s in withdrawal and is pining for heroin. The metaphor of drug as lover and addiction as love, and the wordplay of the title are nothing short of poetic genius.

NIRVANA LITHIUM

Check out Nirvana playing this song at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards. I

don’t think I’ve ever seen a better stand alone live performance.

U2 ONE

Not the coolest band in the world…but who cares. A good song is a good song. If someone put a gun to my head and told me to pick my favourite song, it would be this one. It has everything. The emotion in this song is palpable.

THE BEATLES A DAY IN THE LIFE

I think the production on this song is exquisite, and John Lennon’s voice as the song moves out of the dream sequence is breathtaking. The murder of John Lennon was one of the greatest tragedies of modern times and, in my opinion, this song underlines his genius more than any other. A true epic.

THE BEACH BOYS GOD ONLY KNOWS

It always struck me that a song of such beauty as this, which extols complete and total devotion from the protagonist to their subject, begins with the line “I may not always love you”. I’m a big fan of The Beach Boys. They were the first band I discovered that were around before my lifetime and I was only ten years old when that happened. It was hearing the Jive Bunny songs in 1989 that turned me onto early rock and roll and music from the 1960’s. Readers of a certain age will know what I’m talking about. Readers

under a certain will be googling ‘Jive Bunny’ right now.

DANNY WILLIAMS MOON RIVER

Easy listening is a guilty pleasure of mine, and there are many songs from the genre I could’ve picked for this playlist but this one sums up everything I like about the Gods of easy listening, like Burt Bacarach and the writer of Moon River, Henry Mancini. The sweeping strings, the exquisite vocals and the deep emotion. The song’s first outing was on the soundtrack to Breakfast at Tiffanys but it’s this slowed down, underplayed, vocal-led version by Danny Williams that gets me.

THE DOORS THE END

Just like my musical passions, this playlist starts and ends with The Doors. I love albums that have a continuity to them, albums that take you on a journey. Where each song fits like a jigsaw piece into the next and if you were to hear those songs on their own or in a different order, it just wouldn’t feel right. The End by The Doors provides all of that in one song. An eleven minute behemoth that isn’t just a musical journey, it’s a tour de force that takes in themes of love, murder, sex, loss and Tolkien-esque poetic imagery. Does the song speak of the end of love or the end of life? That’s up to the listener, but I can think of no better way to end my playlist.

Soft Structures

New Exhibition

19 September 2023 – Spring 2024

Soft Structures reflects on the invisible threads and undocumented connections that underpin creative lives and communities. Through drawing, painting, video, installation, textile and ceramics, we present newly commissioned artwork by Ian Giles and Fiona Larkin, alongside pieces from the Middlesbrough Collection held at MIMA.

Free entry. Centre Square, Middlesbrough TS1 2AZ

Ethel Guymer, Bulbs . Date unknown. Oil on board. Middlesbrough Collection at MIMA