FEATURE
MUSIC
Faithful Johannes performing at Base Camp, Middlesbrough. Image by Keavey Gamwell
BASE CAMP MIDDLESBROUGH’S BASTION OF DIY SPIRIT KEPT MUSIC FANS ENGAGED WITH NEW INITIATIVES AND EVENTS, CARMEL RAMSEY TALKS ABOUT ADAPTING AND REACTING Base Camp’s return after lockdown saw the transformation of our vast warehouse space into a new sit-down bar that hosted weekly gigs, films, quizzes and comedy clubs throughout the summer as well as art and photography classes. The sprawling Grade 2 listed building in the heart of Middlesbrough’s historic district has always been a versatile space but we were able to make the sheer size of the place work to our advantage with an impressive socially distanced set-up. Stand out moments included the reopening event, Not Leeds Festival, which saw nine artists play over the Bank Holiday weekend. It was not only the bands’ first live shows since March, it was also the first time many of the audience had socialised in more than six months and the atmosphere was just incredible. Like every venue, we’ve had a nightmare adjusting to the constantly changing rules and regulations. The table service, the extra cleaning, the logistics involved in putting on an event have all been really challenging, but we are lucky to have the most amazing team who just took everything in their stride and made every event a massive success. There were some very special memories created at Base Camp this year and I’m very proud of the fact that we didn’t have a single case of Covid linked to the venue. The fact that we managed to keep everyone safe gives me huge hope for next year, despite the restrictions we will no doubt be operating under. As the recipients of Arts Council funding, Base Camp’s future is secured for 2021 and although things are going to take a long time to get back to normal, it’s in our nature to have big plans in the pipeline. We’re working on some really exciting events for next year that will happen both online and in a physical space once we are allowed to play out again. We’ve got some properly ground-breaking collaborators on board and one way or another 2021 is going to be our best year yet. Watch this space!”
www.facebook.com/basecampboro
SMOOVE & TURRELL: VANDEBILT
Vandebilt are a band from Sunderland, they are electronic disco in nature with a hint of indie and pop. Their tunes are insanely catchy and upbeat. Vandebilt are Smoove & Turrell’s official support band but it won’t be long before we are supporting them when they get a record deal! www.smooveandturrell.com www.vandebilt.bandcamp.com
BIGFATBIG: ZELA
If 2020 is anything to go by, ZELA will have taken over the world by 2023. Five amazing singles deep since March and showing zero signs of slowing, they’re a huge talking point of the North East music scene, and rightly so. We can’t wait to see them blow up in the coming months. www.facebook.com/bigfatbig www.facebook.com/thisiszela
TAUPE: YEAH YOU
Yeah You are the daughter-father duo of Elvin Brandhi and Gwilly Edmondez. Improvised wild pop-dada with electronics and distorted vocals. Total anti-stasis. Must have seen them 10+ times live and every time is a new approach and sound world. www.taupe.bandcamp.com www.yeahyou.bandcamp.com
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