PREVIEWS

Image: Dylan Cartlidge

MUSIC

DYLAN CARTLIDGE RELEASES YELLOW BRICK ROAD EP

Words: Claire Dupree

Here in the North East we’ve long been wise to the talents of Dylan Cartlidge. The Redcar rapper and multi-instrumentalist has been gaining fans across the pond as well as in the UK, with BBC 6Music and Radio 1 support, not to mention climbing the US Alternative Radio Chart.

Dylan’s passion for music and skilful genre subversion is at the fore of his new Yellow Brick Road EP, due for release on 14th August. The title track is a funky groove-laden paean to overcoming fear and self-sabotage, while recently released single Cheerleader tackles self-esteem and not conforming to stereotypes, complete with Dylan’s trademark lyrical manipulation, fast beats and hip-shaking rhythms.

Dylan’s ability to touch on raw subjects with sensitivity and poise is just one of the things that makes him so special; a deft lyricist, unafraid to lay his soul bare, his music demonstrates a profound respect for what’s gone before while being unafraid to rip it up and start again. This EP is surely only the start of what’s certain to be a stratospheric career, get on board now.

Dylan Cartlidge releases the Yellow Brick Road EP on 14th August via Glassnote Music www.dylancartlidge.com

BIFF: Russia's contribution to this year's festival

STAGE

BIFF: THE GLOBAL HEARTBEAT OF A SMALL

Words: Helen Redfern

Since 1965, the Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance (BIFF) has been bringing together artistes and admirers of dance, heritage and culture from all over the world. For more than 50 years, they’ve been joining nations together through the power of dance, and this year is no different.

OK, so it will be different in format to Billingham’s celebrated dance festival: the global pandemic has meant performers and audiences are unable to unite this year in person to experience the joys of live dance theatre. However, Artistic Director Olga Maloney and the festival’s organisers have come up with an extra special project that brings people together in a novel way that will “bring a sparkle into people’s lives during these uncertain times.”

The Global Heartbeat Of A Small Town is a collaboration between BIFF and Balbir Singh Dance Company, and will showcase dancers from across the globe performing live from their own kitchens and living rooms. United through the love of dance, followers of the festival can view performances that provide a special insight into their unique cultural heritage from Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, France, Georgia, Japan, Mexico, Northern Cyprus, Peru, Russia and the UK on the BIFF Facebook and Twitter pages.

Expect as always lively movements, colourful costumes and mesmerising skills as this wonderful virtual festival takes place from Saturday 1st-Sunday 9th August, concluding with a video montage of the community artwork created throughout The Global Heartbeat Of A Small Town project.

The Global Heartbeat Of A Small Town is broadcast via BIFF’s Facebook and Twitter pages from Saturday 1st-Sunday 9th August. See the website for full listings www.facebook.com/billinghamworlddancefestival www.twitter.com/BillFest www.billinghamfestival.com

Bisola Bella as Mary Seacole, image by Eliot Smith Dance

STAGE

ELIOT SMITH DANCE: SEACOLE + NIGHTINGALE ONLINE PERFORMANCE

Words: Helen Redfern

When it comes to research and development, North East contemporary choreographer Eliot Smith is second to none. He’s insatiably curious. Each time he creates a piece of work, he listens, learns and immerses himself in the back story. Only then does he lean into the choreography. “It has been a continued passion of mine to look at historical contexts with fresh eyes,” explains Eliot Smith, “to show their relevancy today, and allow the characters involved to speak through the medium of dance.”

In his latest project, due to the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, the artistic director of Eliot Smith Dance has moved beyond live dance performance to create SEACOLE + NIGHTINGALE, a multi-media presentation of the nursing legacy of Mary Seacole and Florence Nightingale that shines a light on today’s NHS frontline staff. Inspired by the lives of heroes past and present, this interdisciplinary documentary is a new departure for Eliot Smith and his company, and will combine music by composer Adam Johnson, original artwork by Bernadette Koranteng, a poem by children from Seaton Sluice Primary School, and interviews with Trevor Sterling from the Mary Seacole Trust, David Green from the Florence Nightingale Museum and staff from Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, intertwined with passionate performances by Eliot Smith Dance.

Filmed in some of Britain’s most beautiful forests, you can expect natural beauty, courage and devotion.

SEACOLE + NIGHTINGALE will premiere free of charge from 7.30pm on Thursday 13th August via Eliot Smith Dance’s website www.eliotsmithdance.com/ seacoleandnightingale

ART & LIT

VAGABONDS BY RICHARD BAKER

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Emerging from a pit of sadness and despair, Middlesbrough band Wraiths forged their own form of self-styled ‘hell metal’, drawing on influences from Black Sabbath to Acacia Strain in order to portray some of the darkest recesses of human consciousness. Fusing together a raging maelstrom of formidable and unforgiving riffs, the likes of their 2012 EP provided intense shockwaves of full-blooded doom rock.

Now, former drummer Richard Baker has reflected on his experiences as part of the band to bring his first book, Vagabonds, to fruition. It’s a gritty collection of true stories from his time in Wraiths, as they took their visceral and raucous shows on tour across the UK. The anthology documents some of the realities of life on the road as a band grasping for success, from sleeping on floors and bathing in swimming pools to arguing with promoters to get paid. This is a first-hand look at what it’s really like to be a band with big dreams on the road.

Vagabonds is published on 1st August in both a limited edition paperback with exclusive artwork and as an eBook.

MUSIC

NICE GUY RELEASE DEBUT SINGLE, FAKE LEATHER

Words: James Russell

Fake Leather is the debut single from Nice Guy, a four-piece alt. rock outfit hailing from the land of the Tees.

Expertly crafted vocals sit atop pulsating drums and raw, frenetic guitars to create an indie rock anthem that is as refreshing as it is banging. This one promises to go down a storm with the sweaty masses once gigs return. With inspiration coming from unlikely places, such as “those gold necklaces that said ‘fuck the Tories’” and “Deirdre Barlow’s neck muscles”, Fake Leather has more in common with The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys and Maximo Park than the power of an aging soap star’s neck, which is ultimately a good thing. Recorded and produced by Goosed Records’ David Todd and Nigel Crooks, this is an exciting introduction to Nice Guy, who bear all the hallmarks of a force to be reckoned with in the indie rock world.

Mathematics, recorded and produced by Teesside’s Luci Saint, is the perfect B-side to Fake Leather, and leans towards stripped-back melancholy over indie dancefloor-filling madness. This feat is deftly achieved without compromising the style or personality of this versatile and talented bunch of Smoggies.

Nice Guy release Fake Leather on 2nd August www.soundcloud.com/weareniceguy

The Creep Void by Graeme Baty

MUSIC

THE CREEP VOID RELEASE NEW SINGLE, SICK OF ANGELS

Words: Claire Dupree

The Coronavirus pandemic has basically screwed up every band’s plans so far this year, and The Creep Void are no exception. The Washington-based alt. rock band had been gearing up to release new single Sick of Angels back in May, but due to obvious complications the release was put back and plans put on hold. It’s now finally getting an airing, and it’s been more than worth the wait.

The band’s trademark fuzzy riffs are in attendance; a rollocking rock tune, it’s a thrilling four and a half minutes of energetic vocals, propulsive rhythms and spirited melodic guitar lines which hardly let up. The band recorded the track just before lockdown at Blaydon’s Inheartstudios. “The song itself is quite self explanatory. [There’s] a lot of bad stuff going on in the world. The song is about those people who exploit the bad stuff for their own personal gain. Influencers, social justice warriors, people who try to police other people if they don’t agree with their opinion. They portrait themselves as angels when in fact they are nothing but self indulgent parasites feeding on the misfortune of tragedy.”

The Creep Void release Sick of Angels on 22nd August www.soundcloud.com/thecreepvoid

MUSIC

GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE GIGS

Words: Claire Dupree

As we all know, it’s pretty tough to be a live music venue or performance space right now, and it’s even harder for those who additionally have charitable elements to their businesses. Gosforth Civic Theatre, which is run by disability arts organisation Liberdade, have more hurdles to face than many, but with a typically forward-thinking attitude and dedication to their customers and those they support, they’re taking tentative steps back towards doing what they do best.

Safety is at the forefront of their concerns, of course, so their newly announced live gigs (which kicked off in late July) are taking place in the intimate courtyard space outside the venue on Friday tea-times. Their support of local artists continues, and has seen performances from folk duo Janice Burns and Jon Doran, blues guitarist Memphis Gerald and Shields frontman Rich Sutton take place already, with many more exciting acts to be announced for August.

Their indoor cafe will reopen at the beginning of August, with all safety measures taken into account, and the live shows are free to attend but tickets must be booked in advance (available weekly, keep an eye on their website and social media – @GoCivTheatre – for updates).

As CEO Rob Huggins explains, GCT’s priorities are geared towards creating a comfortable and supportive space for all to enjoy. “Like all arts organisations we want to change the world, we want to bring people together to create understanding, we want to decide what is the new normal by being extraordinary, and we want to shape our community by telling our stories and providing a home for everyone to enjoy. This is who we are, we will survive, we will support those that need us, and we will open our doors again for everybody to come together.” www.gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk

MUSIC

KEMA KAY RELEASES NEW EP, NOT ANYMORE

Words: Claire Dupree

Not content with receiving major plaudits for his performance in Ken Loach’s I, Daniel Blake, writing and producing his debut solo theatre show, Shine, at Live Theatre last year (where he became an associate artist) as well as working with young people to develop songwriting and rapping skills to build their confidence, Kema Kay unveils yet another project which further demonstrates his talent.

The Newcastle-based rapper’s new EP, Not Anymore, takes the listener on a journey through Kema’s life; from facing adversity, racism and tragedy, Kema’s eloquent lyrics describe how he’s overcome the trials of his life to become a confident and self-assured young man. The title track’s rhythmic beats and stabbing strings are a particular highlight: “They used to count me out and that used to bother me, but not anymore”. The EP switches between genres, from grime to hip-hop, pop and Afrobeat; Let’s Drive shows a softer side, while Standard’s whispered intro belies the barely restrained anger of the lyrics and Woes’ glitchy synths and honest introspection demonstrate Kema’s lyrical prowess.

“There’s a lot of unexpected songs on the EP. People will get to hear a side of me they haven’t before.” Kema says of the release. “The passion, the anger, the sadness, the happiness, the fun, the loss, the gain. I’m letting the audience into my world. More than I ever have before.”

Kema Kay releases Not Anymore EP on 9th August www.facebook.com/kemakayofficial

Laurie Shepherd

MUSIC

LAURIE SHEPHERD RELEASES NEW SINGLES

Words: Claire Dupree

Continuing her impressive work ethic, this month sees the release of two new singles from Newcastle songwriter Laurie Shepherd as she builds up to an album release in the autumn.

An artist whose connection to the region’s landscape is an intrinsic part of her sound, it comes as no surprise that first single Wild Land is an evocative ode to longing for nature – something we can likely all identify with given our recent confinement. Drawing on imagery of the ancient forests which once covered the British Isles, gentle strings and soft piano sounds underpin Laurie’s wistful vocals. She says of the song: “I think there are many good things about technology and the modern world, but I also think it can have a numbing effect on us. Cities are great, and they can be also be wild places, in a different way, but we need that other kind of wildness. It’s part of what makes us human.”

Footsteps, due for release later the month, changes tack entirely although is no less affecting. A paean to the Suffragettes and the fight for equal rights, handclaps provide rhythm as a funky guitar line carries the track to a chorus of multi-tracked vocals.

Laurie Shepherd releases Wild Land on 5th August, followed by Footsteps on 19th August www.laurieshepherd.co.uk

COMEDY

THE STAND ON DEMAND & LIVE SHOWS

Words: Claire Dupree

Over the last few months we’ve all had to get used to adapting our lives and reassessing our expectations of the things we love. Some are better at this than others, of course, and when it comes to Newcastle comedy club The Stand, the idea that ‘necessity is the mother of invention’ has never been so apt.

Since lockdown began The Stand have been livestreaming stand-up comedy every Saturday night, with top flight comics and local favourites performing from their homes. In addition, from both the Newcastle venue and their Edinburgh headquarters they’ve masterminded ‘behind closed doors’ livestreams and have managed to bring the warmth, energy and laughs you’d enjoy in a room full of strangers directly onto your computer screen. They’ve handled the challenges they still continue to face with ingenuity and aplomb.

The Stand have also recently launched an On Demand website, which hosts exclusive content from brilliant comedians available to rent for a few quid. Currently available (although regularly updated, and not everything is available forever) are shows from Miles Jupp, Carl Hutchinson, Matt Reed and Jonny & The Baptists.

From August they’ll also be bringing actual real-life live comedy back to their Newcastle venue, the intimate shows will be hosted in their outdoor courtyard and will feature local favourite Carl Hutchinson. Check out the venue’s website and social media pages for more info on tickets.

While it’s hoped live performance may return in a safe and controlled way very soon, we get the feeling The Stand aren’t done innovating just yet. www.ondemand.thestand.co.uk www.thestand.co.uk/newcastle

MUSIC

TO KILL A NATION RELEASES NEW EP

Words: Beverley Knight

Ground-breaking novel 1984 by George Orwell was revisited by musical project To Kill A Nation during lockdown, where the phrase ‘The Destruction of Words’ called out to him, and was selected as an ideal title for his new EP.

Commencing three years ago, the Billingham producer’s canon already boasts an EP, Homeland, and debut album This Is All We Have. There’s a wide range of influences cited, including New Order, Nick Drake and Bill Callahan, and a keenness to soak up and interpret as many genres as possible. All recorded at his home, The Destruction of Words is To Kill A Nation’s most personal creation and a reflection of his mood captured in art.

Starting with a nod to Air’s percussion, As The Sun Goes Down focuses on its brass leading to the denser arrangement of The Darker Side Of You, with its brooding guitar work and strings. Touch The Light shows its understated style, while Hold The Fear has an animalistic feel. The instrumental EP ends with the aptly titled We Are Falling Apart, layering samples and alien-like effects. All five tracks together present a luxuriant ambiance.

To Kill A Nation releases his new EP, The Destruction of Words, on 28th August www.facebook.com/tokillanation

Pit Road with Telegraph Poles and Lights © Norman Cornish Limited

ART & LIT

BOWES MUSEUM REOPENS

Words: Nicola Owen

Barnard Castle’s beautiful Bowes Museum will once again reveal its treasures to the public as they reopen on 1st August. The hugely popular Norman Cornish painting exhibition has been extended to January, so if you haven’t caught the art of one of the famous Pitman Painters yet you have a few more months to visit. The collection includes a number of previously unseen pieces and tells the story of the artist’s enduring career.

The museum also has a contrasting exhibition by the 19th Century Pre Raphaelite school which is enticingly described as an “exploration of the world of medieval myths and legends and of tales of heroic deeds and chivalric honour”. Work by Rossetti, Millais and Burne Jones depict knights who were, for the most part, lovers as well as fighters. Running until mid-September is a commercial exhibition from Judy Hurst’s intricate illustrative works, and winning entries from the Bouts Art Competition for young people will be on display in the grounds.

The museum continues to engage a younger audience with events planned throughout August which include a bird and bunting workshop, a knights and dragons craft event and a day of Medieval Mayhem where kids and adults can create their own shield and coat of arms.

Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle reopens on 1st August www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Salt Market Social by Kathryn Fergus

EVENTS

SALT MARKET SOCIAL

Words: Claire Dupree

Delayed or postponed events are hardly news these days, but for Salt Market Social they’ve had to wait practically an entire year until they were finally able to throw open their doors. An industrial landmark on North Shields Fish Quay, the former Cosalt Factory will now be home to a street food, craft beer and music emporium which seeks to support the best of the region’s independent traders.

Opening for their first weekend from Friday 14th- Sunday 16th August (and again over the bank holiday weekend from Friday 28th-Monday 31st August), Salt Market Social will feature much-loved North East food pop-ups including taco makers Lobo Rojo, Pan Asia, Med Head and Hatch 76, plus crafty brews courtesy of North East breweries including Wylam, Errant, Northern Alchemy and Allendale among others. Given the large space their industrial setting affords them, it’s a perfect location for socially-distanced fun, and punters are encouraged to book their 90-minute time slot in advance (although walk-ups are available). Entertainment is provided in the form of DJs, and we’re assured live music is on the cards in the future.

Co-founder, Jim Mawdsley (who eagle-eyed readers will know from his former job as CEO of music support agency, Generator) says: “After the last few months we all need something to look forward to, and we’ve worked hard to make the space as exciting and safe as possible. People can feel reassured that our social distancing measures and hygiene protocols are right up there with the best. We’re lucky that we have a huge space, so haven’t had to compromise on the experience and atmosphere we want people to get from our Socials, so it’ll be a lot of fun.”

Salt Market Social takes place at 1 Liddell Street, North Shields Fish Quay from Friday 14th-Sunday 16th and Friday 28th-Monday 31st August www.saltmarketsocial.co.uk

STAGE

MEAT FACTORY @ ALPHABETTI THEATRE ONLINE

Words: Eugenie Johnson

Shirley Dobson is a proud businesswoman. She’s the owner of a payday loans company, Dosh Ltd, and she’s won both North East Business Woman of the Year 2016 and the National Business Award 2019 (oh, plus she was awarded an OBE too, you know). So, what’s next for Shirley? Well, she’s getting back to the grind (perhaps a bit more literally than intended).

A darkly satirical play, Meat Factory follows Shirley as she embarks on her next undertaking. She’ll be pitching to the government and her fellow big-wig business buddies to help launch the latest business proposition as part of Quick ‘n’ Easy Meat-Based Products (and if you’re thinking that ‘meat-based’ is quite vague, you might want to hold on to those suspicions).

Originally a short play featuring in the 2015 award winning performance The Rooms, Meat Factory is now being reimagined as a short film, working alongside videographer Adam Goodwin. An online performance will be available on Alphabetti Theatre’s website indefinitely from Wednesday 19th August, so it’ll be possible to join Shirley in a virtual meat-based venture.

Meat Factory is screened via Alphabetti Theatre’s website from Wednesday 19th August www.alphabettitheatre.co.uk

MUSIC

MINI MISH MASH ONLINE

Words: Claire Dupree

Despite recent circumstances, Darlington’s Tracks music collective have kept true to their ethos of giving musicians in Teesside a helping hand, from organising livestreams during lockdown to serenading shoppers with busking sessions from some of the region’s finest musicians.

One of Tracks’ key successes is in making music accessible to all, and they’ll continue in this vein with Mini Mish Mash, a virtual family-friendly festival which will be livestreamed via Facebook and YouTube on August Bank Holiday Sunday. Mish Mash was an initiative launched last year which saw music and entertainment take over Darlington’s Market Square. While the location may be different, the festival still puts musicians at its heart, with local artists paid to either perform exclusive shows or deliver workshops.

The event opens with a singing workshop from Claire Willmer, followed by a family-friendly hip-hop workshop with rising local rap star Kay Greyson, who will also perform some of her music. Further performances will come from Darlington’s foot stomping gospel blues band The Deadseat; gypsy jazz group Andy Lawrenson Trio and headliners Los Capitanes, whose high energy Spanish-influenced sounds will delight music lovers of all stripes.

Mini Mish Mash is broadcast via the Tracks Facebook and YouTube pages from 3.30pm on Sunday 30th August www.facebook.com/tracksdarlington www.bit.ly/TracksTube

Crimson Bloom by Peter Grant

MUSIC

CRIMSON BLOOM RELEASE NEW ALBUM

Words: Laura Doyle

Sometimes, in searching for a new sound, we find ourselves instead rediscovering old favourites. Crimson Bloom’s new album is ideal for anyone hankering for the 90s’ resurgence of 60s’ guitar rock. They’ve been busy since their eponymous debut back in 2018, and now are ready to unleash its follow up, Finer Times In Other Worlds.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it is clearly North East indie pop band’s motto; refining their equal parts psychedelic/jangly sensibility to produce sure-fire results. Their mellowed approach to some of modern life’s most irritating quirks is good for those of us who are mad, but also don’t want to raise our blood pressure too much. For those who were around back in the day and want to reminisce, or those who wish they’d been born a decade or two earlier, Crimson Bloom is worth a look in for some authentic vintage rock vibes.

Crimson Bloom release Finer Times in Other Worlds via Lovestone Records on 14th August www.crimsonbloom.bandcamp.com

NewBridge Project - image by Uma Breakdown

ART & LIT

THE NEWBRIDGE PROJECT LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE AND CREATIVE CALL OUT

Words: Claire Dupree

The NewBridge Project’s goal of creating a dynamic and welcoming place for pioneering contemporary artists in the North East extends to the virtual world as well as the physical. While their studio spaces in Gateshead and Newcastle are currently closed they’ve been busy revamping their website and planning ahead for future work.

Launching in August, their new website will more accurately represent the work and ethos of the artist-led organisation, and will feature newly commissioned digital artworks by six local artists ranging in medium from audio pieces to toolkits for artistic development and video and prose works. Visit the site to see exclusive work from Uma Breakdown, gobscure, Rebecca Jackson, Imo Jeffes, Lady Kitt and Rosie O’Grady.

In addition, NewBridge Project are on the hunt for new artists to work with on their Collective Studio development programme for early-career artists, recent graduates and creative practitioners. Providing space to test out ideas and experiment with the support of a critically engaged community, The Collective Studio offers an invaluable opportunity for people of all backgrounds, with the project running from October 2020 to August 2021. See the website for more information. www.thenewbridgeproject.com

ART & LIT

REOPENING ARTS VENUES ROUND-UP

Words: Claire Dupree

August will mark the reopening of some of our region’s arts venues as lockdown restrictions are eased; while many venues (particularly those who usually host performances) remain closed, our region’s museums and galleries are tentatively welcoming back their customers.

You’ll find information about reopenings and exhibitions peppered throughout this issue (including at Bowes Museum, Laing Art Gallery, Pineapple Black and Jam Jar Cinema). In addition, Tyne & Wear Museums & Archives have published reopening dates for their venues including South Shields Museum & Art Gallery (13th August), Shipley Art Gallery (23rd August), Discovery Museum and Great North Museum: Hancock (both 1st September), with Hatton Gallery hoping for an autumn reopening. Life Science Centre will reopen on 1st August with their new Dino Experience LEGO exhibition; BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art will open their ground floor gallery on 10th August which continues to show the Abel Rodriguez exhibition; Ouseburn’s Biscuit Factory reopens on 1st August, where their excellent Contemporary Young Artist Award exhibition continues; Sunderland’s Museum & Winter Gardens are in the process of a phased reopening; The Word in South Shields is open for return and collection of pre-booked books; while Stockton’s ARC have committed to an early September reopening.

Musicians keen to work off their lockdown rustiness can book rehearsal space at First Avenue Studios (1st August) and Polestar (27th July) in Newcastle; while Bunker Studios in Sunderland, Rocking Horse Rehearsal Rooms in Durham, Stockton’s Boom Boom Rehearsal Rooms and Redcar’s Backstreet Studio are all currently now open.

This is, of course, a work in progress list, so keep an eye on your favourite local venue, museum, gallery, cinema or art space to see what they’re up to. And if they’re not opening yet, consider how you can help spread the word of their online content – they need your voice now more than ever.

MUSIC

LUCI SAINT RELEASES FALSE IDOLS EP

Words: Kristopher Cook

Self care is at the crux of the new EP from musician and producer Luci Saint; self care and camaraderie in the face of isolation. Last year’s Something You Want was a quality introduction from this iteration of the Teesside producer, an animated mix that made use of the expansive space provided – on False Idols you’re getting a bit of a 180, with a lot more emphasis placed on the current state of mind of the lad himself.

The EP’s title track could easily find its way onto a Chase & Status record circa 2011 — a stomping DnB banger that doubles up as a PSA against the need for artificial role models. Vibe heavy Ragnarok is a whisper at the end of the world, Saint’s interpretation of relationships and the limitations that come with strings attached. EP closer What You Saying is probably the most direct of the trio, one which imprints a hypnotic, reeling feeling.

False Idols is in many ways a coping mechanism for Luci Saint; a way to express himself without borders in hope of inspiring others to follow suit when going through the ringer that is anxiety and depression – you know, personal shit, the kind most tend to keep concealed on their person at all times – making for an honest and relatable listen.

Luci Saint releases False Idols EP on 31st July www.soundcloud.com/lucisaint

Workplace Gallery Online

ART & LIT

TRANSMISSION @ WORKPLACE GALLERY ONLINE

Words: Nicola Owen

Imagine for a moment if you will the haunting sound of Joy Division echoing through the ghost of a damp and decaying concrete building; this gives some idea of what awaits you with Transmission, an eclectic and vibrant group exhibition hosted online in the now digital depths of what was the Get Carter car park in Gateshead.

More formally known as Trinity Court, the brooding Brutalist masterpiece was demolished in 2009 to make way for a much less foreboding but bland and branded precinct of shops, community facilities and a cinema. The regeneration of the crumbling Trinity Court into Trinity Square also included the erasure of 34 Ellison Street which was Workplace Gallery’s first exhibition space. The space has now been resurrected through clever technology and visitors can log on to enjoy new and recent work by artists Simeon Barclay, Marcus Coates, Jennifer Douglas, Louise Giovanelli and Laura Lancaster.

Now based on Gateshead’s West Street (although currently not open to the public), Workplace was initially founded out of the Northern artist led scene by Paul Moss, Richard Forster and Miles Thurlow. From its Gateshead base the gallery rapidly became the leading commercial and contemporary art gallery outside of London and regularly takes part in major international art fairs, collections and exhibitions worldwide. Their evident ability to evolve and innovate is what makes the gallery, and this exhibition, such a thrilling prospect.

Transmission is available to view via Workplace’s website until Saturday 5th September www.workplacegallery.co.uk/viewing-room/ transmission

Artwork by Tuhutzs

ART & LIT

TUHUTZS @ PINEAPPLE BLACK

Words: Claire Dupree

Middlesbrough’s Pineapple Black gallery will welcome a new solo exhibition from Saltburn artist Tuhutzs this month, taking a sharply critical look at our wasteful habits.

A collection of nine oil works on calico, the artist’s work is typified by bold, bright blocks of imagery which when exhibited together create a large-scale depiction of throwaway culture, from the bewildering variety of food packaging and the inevitable bin it’ll end up in. Tuhutzs (aka Karl Bauer), explains his concept: “The subject matter on each changes though the content ranges from hamburgers, soda drinks, bins, tropical landscapes and faces. Throughout the work my narrative of choice is always an expanded view of subliminal culture; present objects we interact with, without much thought as to why. I feel a need to produce the element of ‘cool’ in my work, picking a range of items that feel genuinely culturally cool and presenting them, allowing the viewer to question why such subject matters have been chosen.”

The paintings were created over the last two years, and in bringing them together in one exhibition Tuhutzs hopes it’ll give the work a new perspective. “It is practically impossible not to produce some form of waste multiple times per day from something you interact with or consume. We are victims of design, choice, private profiteering and unstable global management.” He says. “We all require basic food and water, but do we really need the thousands of options and designs, left solely upon an end choice that is: what can you afford to buy?”

Tuhutzs’ exhibition takes place at Pineapple Black, Middlesbrough from Friday 31st July-Saturday 8th August www.tuhutzs.com www.pineappleblack.co.uk

MUSIC

THE UNATTESTED RELEASE VERSUS EP

Words: Laura Doyle

There are few obstacles that can’t be beaten with a little bit of a can-do attitude – and a can-do attitude is just what Newcastle-based hard rock band The Unattested have. They’re not about to let a measly national lockdown get in the way of the release of their new EP, Versus.

It’s not immediately clear who they’re up against, but if their foe is unproductivity, it’s safe to say they’ve kicked its backside. Versus got a headstart in the studio: their new vocalist found her feet there alongside some drum tracks, but the rest had to be recorded and produced at home. The result is perhaps a bit more rough and ready than it otherwise would have been; operatic vocals lie over grimy guitar hooks and gritty bass in Zombie Boogie, while We Drew Blood gets spruced up for the EP release and it’s a glo-up not only in production (goodbye boxy echo-chamber, hello crystal clear tunes) but also in confidence. The Unattested look like they’re finding their feet, ready to jumpstart their music ASAS (As Soon As Safe.)

The Unattested release Versus EP on 14th August www.soundcloud.com/theunattested

Suzanne Hart

ART & LIT

ICE CREAM & INDIE MUSIC BY SUZANNE HART

Words: Nicola Owen

Durham writer Suzanne Hart’s debut novel Ice Cream & Indie Music is published this month, and it’s likely to strike a chord with musicians and music fans alike.

The novel takes us on a journey with Charlie, a small town Norfolk girl whose life revolves around school, work and watching her favourite band, Projects. To celebrate the end of her A-levels Charlie and her friends Ryan and Dot agree to accompany the band on their tour of the UK. In true indie style the trio buy an old ice cream van to travel, sleep and live out of and go on to realise their teen dreams of touring the UK while supporting their rock star idols. Naturally, feelings between the trio begin to complicate matters.

Suzanne’s experiences as a bass player in “umpteen groups who did two rehearsals at First Avenue and were never heard of again and bands who played two towns in the same month and declared it a national tour” make her highly qualified to write about the trials and tribulations of being a fledgling band attempting to make their name. “They say write about what you know, and owning a bass gets you into almost any band for a good couple of months until the rest of the band realises you can’t actually play it,” Suzanne laughs.

In order to promote the book – and since a traditional meet and greet at a book shop is out of the question under the current circumstances – Suzanne has taken the ingenious approach of sending the book itself on a tour of the North Eastern venues played by the band in the novel. People are invited to take a copy and read it and then pass it to a friend once finished and share a photo of their roaming tome on Instagram.

Ice Cream & Indie Music is published on 28th July. Follow the book’s tour on Instagram @ suzannehartwrites www.suzannehart.org

MUSIC

VICTORIA OWSNETT RELEASES NEW SINGLE, THRONES

Words: Laura Doyle

Remember the HBO series Game of Thrones, where everyone battled to the death for the right to sit in a spiky chair? Then it turned out everyone who was fighting for the spiky chair was a bit of a knacker, and you were probably better off chilling at the Wall or riding horses through the desert? That’s kind of the moral of Gateshead artist Victoria Owsnett’s first foray into her new solo project (she’s also a member of synth popsters AXLS).

Thrones is a delightfully sparkly electro pop tune, with deep bass beats chiming off Owsnett’s quietly assertive vocals. Of course, the song is significantly less grisly than George R.R. Martin would make it, but it thankfully doesn’t fall into juvenility. It can be so easy to regress when considering things like popularity contests, but Owsnett’s conclusions – that no one is any better than anyone else beyond a fancy facade – are suitably uplifting and mature. If you’re going to sit down in the middle of quarantine and work out some thoughts via the medium of music, then you could do worse than the personal breakthrough of Thrones.

Victoria Owsnett releases Thrones on 5th August www.facebook.com/victoriaowsnett

EVENTS

TYNE THEATRE & OPERA HOUSE ONLINE EVENTS

Words: Caitlin Disken

If you’re missing an evening out at the theatre, then look no further than the Tyne Theatre & Opera House’s online events. Following on from their livestreamed events in July, the venue are back this month with a new schedule which will be broadcasted on Twitch and YouTube, filmed direct from the venue.

Kicking off on Saturday 1st August with Live From The Tyne: A Geordie Sing Alang, the streamed events will be broadcast as part of the theatre’s fundraising campaign to secure their future. Although the streams are free, donations are encouraged.

Saturday 8th August sees a particular highlight, as an evening of comedy returns to the venue. First livestreamed in July, this follow-up show will see the return of host Carl Hutchinson alongside revered local comedians Jason Cook, Brennan Reece, Rachel Jackson, Scott Bennett and Phil Ellis for a fabulous night of comedy. The brilliant Chris Ramsey will also feature, making this an event you don’t want to miss. www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

S.O.S by Evelyn De Morgan (1914) © De Morgan Collection, courtesy of the De Morgan Foundation

ART & LIT

WILLIAM AND EVELYN DE MORGAN: TWO OF THE RAREST SPIRITS OF THE AGE @ LAING ART GALLERY

Words: Jamie Taylor

When you consider art history’s great power couples you might think of Gilbert and George or Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. You might not think of the rather unassuming Evelyn and William De Morgan. Described by Sir Edward Pointer, President of the Royal Academy as “the rarest spirits of the age”, this exhibition at Newcastle’s newly reopened Laing Art Gallery explores what made the duo so special.

It seems somehow apt that the work of Evelyn De Morgan heralds the reopening of the Laing. Painted in a very different time in response to a very different danger, her work is replete with a relatable sense of hope. Lux in Tenebris is a striking example which greets you as you enter her section of the exhibition. Its glowing portrayal of a women, shinning through the darkness to offer us peace, is a reassuring reminder that there are better times ahead.

While William’s work doesn’t carry the same socio-political message of Evelyn’s, his designs are pure arts and crafts escapism. His father was a famous mathematician and his influence can be felt through the geometric patterns of the ceramics. Another influence was Thomas Bewick, whose History of British Birds can be seen alongside the swan plates that it inspired.

William and Evelyn De Morgan: Two of the Rarest Spirits of the Age is on show at Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle from Monday 10th August to Saturday 26th September www.laingartgallery.org.uk

ART & LIT

NO SHOW ART SHOW @ PINEAPPLE BLACK

Words: Eugenie Johnson

You’re a student in the creative arts. You’ve been working throughout college or university to perfect your own style and develop your specialism in a particular medium, all leading up to that final show where you can display your finest work. And then COVID-19 happened. Suddenly, there’s no final show any more, no chance to proudly display what you’ve achieved like those who came before you.

Well, despite the challenging conditions, there is still a chance to see works from final year college and uni students across Teesside. Launching on Friday 14th August and running until Saturday 5th September, Middlesbrough’s Pineapple Black gallery celebrate their reopening by hosting the No Show Art Show (see what they did there?), providing a showcase for rising creative talent from the area.

Featuring work submitted through an open call to students in the Tees Valley, a broad spectrum of creative media will be on display, from fine art to fashion, textiles to music. Plus, as Pineapple Black is one of the largest gallery spaces in the region, social distancing at this real-life, physical exhibition will be a piece of cake (but rest assured that they’ll have all of the necessary health and safety precautions in place too). The students will get the exhibition they’ve all been working towards, and you’ll get a glimpse of creative ‘ones to watch’ in the process.

The No Show Art Show takes place at Pineapple Black, Middlesbrough from Friday 14th August-Saturday 5th September www.pineappleblack.co.uk

ART & LIT

CORNERSTONE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE LAUNCH WEEKENDER

Words: Claire Dupree

Darlington residents and artists Louise Maddison and Pete Nicholson have keenly felt the loss of a permanent, dedicated arts centre in the town and the community spirit such a place can nurture. When the opportunity came up to take over the old Marks & Spencers building, they jumped at the chance to occupy the massive shop unit and repurpose it to serve the needs of the local arts community.

Despite the considerable challenges lockdown has presented, Cornerstone Community Arts Centre is now ready to become a hub of creativity run, as Louise so succinctly puts it, “by the people, for the people”. The centre will have multiple, flexible gallery spaces, performance space, areas for teaching and workshops and will host several artist studios, not to mention housing community radio station Darlo Radio. Plans for an outdoor stage and onsite cafe are also in the works.

To celebrate the centre’s completion, a launch weekend will take place over the August bank holiday, featuring exhibitions from artists including The Northern Echo’s cartoonist Cliff, aka John Longstaff; illustrator Brian Lee; mother and daughter artists Mary and Merlyn Griffiths; sculptor Andy Boylett and Darlington film company Broken Scar Productions will screen their short film, The Curator. Throughout the weekend a variety of events and workshops will be on offer, with a multitude of artists demonstrating their craft.

The launch of such a space will be a real game changer for artists based in Darlington, providing a creative home for practitioners and art lovers alike.

Cornerstone Community Arts Centre’s launch weekend takes place from Friday 28th-Monday 31st August at 70 Northgate, Darlington www.facebook.com/cornerstoneartsdarlington