NARC. #205 May 2024

JAMES LEONARD HEWITSON

MARRAPALOOZA

FAST BLOOD

JODIE NICHOLSON

SUNDERLAND SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

As Constant Readers will know, last month we celebrated our 18th birthday. It can be easy to settle into a rhythm in any job, and while the day-to-day rigmarole of research, writing, corralling and cajoling is easy to find comfort in, it’s also quite nice to shake things up a bit. Which is what we’ve done this month!

Within this edition you’ll come across a few new features that aim to dive a little deeper into our subject matter; from artists giving detailed rundowns on their releases, to curators talking about the things that make their events stand out. We’ve expanded our interview and feature section, all with the purpose of giving you more reasons to get out there and interact with our amazing North East music and cultural scenes. I hope you find your new favourite thing in our pages, that’s always our goal.

Aside from faffing about with words (the technical term for my job), I’ve spent the past month attempting to break out of my weather-related funk (seriously, will it ever stop raining?!), mostly by daydreaming about new trips and planning a few little local mini-adventures. There really is no better place than the North East for new discoveries; I will report back on my various wanderings next month!

Editor

Claire Dupree

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David Saunders

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El Roboto

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Cover Image

Amelia Read

Live

Photography

Jamie Huntley / Thomas Jackson / Victoria Wai

Contributors

Jake Anderson / Jade Mia Broadhead / Matthew Brown / Laura Doyle / Lee Fisher / Nat Greener / Lee Hammond / James Hattersley / Tracy Hyman / Ben Lowes-Smith / Matthew McDonnell / Lena Moss / Robert Nichols / Michael O’Neill / Stephen Oliver / Ikenna Offor / Adam Paxton / Niamh Poppleton / Kate Relton / Tommy Robertson / Damian Robinson / David Saunders / Dawn Storey / Linsey Teggert / Luke Waller / Robin Webb / Ali Welford / Maria Winter

PREVIEWS

4 HIGHLIGHTS

Some of the best events in May, plus find out what’s online at narcmagazine.com

6 PREVIEWS

Live shows from GoGo Penguin, The Rifles, The K’s, Long Knife, Nora Brown, Snapped Ankles, The Hightowns, Scott Hepple, Dossers, SK Shlomo, The Lottery Winners and more; theatre including The Olive Boy at Laurel’s/The Customs House, Kontemporary Korea at Dance City, Moby Dick and Liberation Squares at Northern Stage, and you have already survived at Live Theatre; stand-up comedy from Richard Herring at ARC, Zoe at Tyne Theatre & Opera House and Your Aunt Fanny at The Stand; and exhibitions including Franki Raffles at Baltic, Drawing Attention at Hartlepool Art Gallery and North East Emerging Artist Award at Seaton Delaval Hall

necessarily

31 MULTILINGUAL LIBRARY

32 VICE KILLER

33 JODIE NICHOLSON

34 THE BOUNDS

35 THE LATE SHOWS

36 ELAINE PALMER

37 A STONE’S THROW FESTIVAL

38 SUNDERLAND SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

39 GEORGINA GALE

JOANNE COATES

STOCK IMAGE

42 LISTINGS

The best of the rest…

45 LIVE REVIEWS

Reports of live shows from The Hives, Saint Saviour, Thundercat, Objections, Pet Needs, The Zutons and more

48 TRACKS

Reviews of local singles and EPs from Big Romance, HMRC, Hekla Goodman, Martha Hill, Mike Hebden, ROMM, Cows Lying Down, Cora Manchester, Caitie, Bryan, Living In Shadows and William Cawley

50 DEMOS

Demo reviews of Kirk/Bogart, The Orion Trio, Moss, Monkie Mind and Spelk

51 ALBUMS

Featuring new releases from Arab Strap, Myriam Gendron, Frank Turner, Mdou Moctar, Bat For Lashes, Group Listening, Ibibio Sound Machine, girli, How To Dress Well, DIIV, Yaya Bey and more

54 MIXTAPE

Ahead of the release of her new remix EP, alt. folk artist Ceitidh Mac and collaborators Sam Grant, Frankie Archer and Jayne Dent choose some of their favourite remixes

28 JAMES LEONARD HEWITSON

Linsey Teggert talks to the modest pop songwriter about his idiosyncratic new album, obscure influences and feeling at odds with local identity

PREVIEWS

MAY’S DIVERSIONS INCLUDE A CELEBRATION OF FEMINIST PUNK, A VEGAN FOOD AND TRADERS MARKET, A DOUBLE HEADER FROM TALENTED NORTH EAST PLAYWRIGHTS AND EXPLOSIVE LIVE SOUNDS

ART & LIT UNTIL AUGUST 4

NORTHERN STARS PORTRAITS

Renowned artist Rob Rez’s new exhibition features many of the artists supported by arts promotion charity Northern Roots, including rappers Kema Kay and Kay Greyson and founders of the Voices of Virtue Gospel Choir Mathapelo Imarhiagbe and Chinyere Igun.

Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle www.instagram.com/robrezart

ART & LIT THUR 2

JOANNA MANOUSIS

The British-American artist known is for her monumental and intimate-scale sculptures in glass, mirror and mixed media. New exhibition Iris Obscura presents an innovative exploration of mirrored glass as a medium for artistic expression. Runs until 24th May. Abject Gallery, Sunderland www.joannamanousis.com

MUSIC THUR 2

LOOSE ARTICLES

Promoters Summer Fruit Records and Little Miss Music Promo seek to platform the North’s rock music talent, especially from women and marginalised genders. Expect a raucous performance from Manchester’s high-energy feminist punks Loose Articles, plus Queer rage from Newcastle’s Gaydar and Teesside’s indie grunge band The Wednesday Flowers.

The Georgian Theatre, Stockton www.loosearticles.co.uk

EVENTS FRI 10

CELEBRATING SUBCULTURES

A big screen production of Don Letts’ documentary Two Sevens Clash: Dread Meets Punk Rockers, which also features a Q&A hosted by music journalist and author Nige Tassell and founding member of Dexys Midnight Runners Pete Williams, plus a DJ set from Letts.

The Exchange 1856, North Shields www.theexchange1856.com

MUSIC SAT 11

NEW UNIQUE SOUNDS FROM THE NORTH EAST

Collective Tyne & Weird bring a dose of infectious energy and superb North East talent to their eclectic line-up which features joycore quartet Kkett, alt. popster OsakaJO, dread pop artist Infinite Arcade, Geordie rapper Jack Fox, Afropop and R&B singer Sisi, psych swamp funk band Solcade and Queer pop/art punk artist MXYM. Cobalt Studios, Newcastle www.cobaltstudios.co.uk

EVENTS SAT 11 TYNESIDE VEGAN & MUSIC FESTIVAL

Nearly 60 stalls featuring a wide range of traders and groups, including crafts, artisan creators, sweet treats, gifts, clothing, accessories and more. Ideal for those who are both curious about veganism as well as those looking for ideas and plenty of great food! Northumbria University, Newcastle www.facebook.com/northeastanimalrights

ART & LIT WED 15 JONNY BAINBRIDGE

The Gateshead-born artist exhibits his new collection of paintings entitled, As Within So Without. The theme examines the recurring familiar forms, mechanisms and similarities between the microcosm and the macrocosm and our place, as human beings, within it. Runs until 22nd May.  Bottleworks, Newcastle www.facebook.com/jonnybainbridge.art

Kay Greyson by Rob Rez

Don Letts by John Behets

Kkett

COMEDY

SAT 18

JESTERVAL IS CURIOUS

Join Jesterval and Curious Arts for an unforgettable night of comedy with some of the best LGBTQIA+ comedians on the circuit. A night packed with camp fun, side-splitting jokes and witty one-liners. Hosted by Cal Halbert and featuring Louise Young, Bethany Black, Connor Read and Nicola Mantalios. Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle www.gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk

Abdullah Qureshi, Chris I, 2022, acrylic and Indian ink on watercolour paper, 112x76cm

ART & LIT WED 22 WE WERE NEVER MEANT TO SURVIVE

Pakistan-born artist Abdullah Qureshi’s work is rooted in traditions of abstraction, incorporating gestural, poetic and hybrid methodologies to address autobiography, trauma and sexuality, through painting, filmmaking, and immersive events. Runs until 15th June.

Vane Gallery, Gateshead www.vane.org.uk

STAGE THUR 23

SARDINES & PERSONAL BEST

Alphabetti presents a double header of short plays from two of the North East’s most exciting new playwrights, Emily Ash and Jude Nelson, with scores created by award-winning folk artist, Ruth Lyon. Also on Friday 24th May. Alphabetti Theatre, Newcastle www.alphabettitheatre.co.uk

MUSIC THUR 23 TALISK

Redefining genres and breaking stereotypes, Scottish band Talisk utilise just concertina, violin and guitar to present an energetic and explosive sound which pushes musical boundaries and offers audiences an unparalleled live experience. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton www.talisk.co.uk

EVENTS FRI 24

QUEER DIARY

A handful of brave Queer folk – former misfits, goths, punks, emos, nerds and glee-clubbers – come together as grown-ups to share their younger selves’ innermost thoughts, re-telling tales from their formative years in the name of nostalgia, solidarity and celebration. Gala Theatre, Durham www.galadurham.co.uk

MUSIC SAT 25

THE LOVELY EGGS

Releasing new album Eggsistentialism this month, loveable indie punk rock duo The Lovely Eggs return with what promises to be a live show filled with psychedelic beauty, sneering punk and mind-melting garage rock. The Grove, Newcastle www.thelovelyeggs.co.uk

MUSIC FRI 31

RE:VULVA

Taking aim at hyper-masculine culture, four talented local musicians – Janice Burns, Holly Clarke, Cathy Geldard and Amy Thatcher –present virtuosity, strength and power in a language that is unashamedly and vibrantly female.

Cobalt Studios, Newcastle www.revulva.org

NARC. E-ZINE

Check in on the twelve edition of our multimedia E-ZINE, and discover exclusive videos, playlists, mini-documentaries, sound clips and much more

NARC. TV

Catch up on all the episodes of NARC. TV, our YouTube programme featuring live music and interviews with North East artists +

INTERVIEW: LUKE CHAMBERS

We talk deepfakes and AI with the researcher in Artificial Intelligence Law at Northumbria University, who will be one of the panellists at the next Science Speakeasy at Newcastle’s Life Centre on Thursday 16th May

SIX OF THE BEST: SCOTT HEPPLE

As the Newcastle psych rock artist prepares to release his new album, he offers up an enchanting and revealing Six of the Bests

Image by Darren Andrews

MUSIC

THE LOTTERY

WINNERS @ KU/INDEPENDENT

Words: Maria Winter

Get ready for a double dose of electrifying energy as The Lottery Winners gear up to rock the stage at two epic shows with a twist.

The Leigh-based indie pop four-piece are bringing their signature sound to Independent in Sunderland on Saturday 18th and KU in Stockton on Sunday 19th May, and will be offering music lovers an unforgettable experience with two performances on each day comprising of an acoustic set and Q&A in the afternoon and a full band evening show (the acoustic set in Stockton happens at sister venue The Social Room).

The Lottery Winners are currently taking the music scene by storm with their most recent album Anxiety Replacement Therapy, which reached number 1 in the UK album charts and saw the band collaborate with the likes of Frank Turner, Shaun Ryder and Boy George (and how could we forget their team-up with Nickelback on the now infamous Rockstar Sea Shanty from 2021). Having recently been named as one of Q Magazine’s 12 Most Exciting Acts In The World Right Now, North East music lovers get two chances to witness them in action.

The Lottery Winners play Independent in Sunderland on Saturday 18th and KU/The Social Room in Stockton on Sunday 19th May. www.thelotterywinners.co.uk

MUSIC BEAU

WANZER @ THE LUBBER FIEND

Words: Matt Young

This month the oft-described ‘weirdo’ electronic artist Beau Wanzer sets his controls to minimal at The Lubber Fiend and brings with him all the lo-fi gusto his twisted mind can conjure. With grim humour and a gritty, horror cinema sound he will be echoing through the venue on Saturday 25th May as he wanders through his vast back catalogue and seemingly never-ending list of aliases and collaborations, including a dark ambient outing on last year’s Samhain (Side A) mixtape for Noods Radio. Wanzer’s live shows primarily focus on oscillating between slowed vocal delivery and experimental beats, enveloping listeners in the soundtrack of his world. It’s not solely moody atmospherics or sound design noodling however, there’s a wide swathe of nifty industrial EDM-influenced excitations to get a body shaking, if not legitimately dancing! Opening the night are in-house moody bros FOUND DEAD (Sam Booth and Jon Cornbill) and the main support comes from Slack’s Radio resident Ultimate Junk, whose many mixes on the station give context to Beau’s sound. Get there early, huff the noxious musical aura, and witness something atypical in the Toon; another fine addition to the Lubber’s long, long list of wonderfully esoteric offerings. Beau Wanzer, Ultimate Junk and FOUND DEAD play The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle on Saturday 25th May.

www.beauwanzer.bandcamp.com

ART

& LIT

FRANKI RAFFLES @ BALTIC

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

From Saturday 11th May until Sunday 17th November, Baltic will present the first major retrospective of photographer, feminist and social activist Franki Raffles. Raffles documented the lives of women internationally, predominantly in Scotland, but also across China, the Caribbean, Zimbabwe, Ukraine and Georgia.

Raffles’ photography focuses on women’s lives and their work, addressing issues such as gendered violence, activism and disability. Raffles’ approach is of soft, sympathetic portraiture, focusing on the minutiae of everyday existence to tell a larger story.

The exhibition, Franki Raffles: Photography, Activism, Campaign Works, will concentrate on her prolific output from 1984–94 when she produced around 40,000 images and will bring together photographs, many shown publicly for the first time, alongside archive material contextualising her work.

Raffles life was cut tragically short when she died in childbirth at the age of 39, and since the end of her life, her work has been archived and displayed at the University of St Andrews. This Baltic retrospective allows a rare opportunity to see her work outside of Scotland.

Franki Raffles: Photography, Activism, Campaign Works is exhibited at Baltic, Gateshead from Saturday 11th May until Sunday 17th November.

www.baltic.art

The Lottery Winners

ART & LIT DRAWING ATTENTION @ HARTLEPOOL ART GALLERY

Words: Michael O’Neill

artistic expression.

Drawing Attention is at Hartlepool Art Gallery from Saturday 18th May-Saturday 24th August. www.culturehartlepool.com

STAGE MOBY DICK @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Niamh Poppleton

An incredible coup for Hartlepool Art Gallery, Drawing Attention: Emerging Artists In Dialogue is a touring exhibition presented by The British Museum which offers a broad plethora of artistic feats from their extensive archive. The gallery was chosen as one of three locations to host the exhibition across the UK, following a national application process, and will be on display at the gallery from Saturday 18th MaySaturday 24th August.

MUSIC ROULETTE FESTIVAL @ INDEPENDENT

Words: Tommy Robertson

Artworks on display date as far back as the 1500s; expect to see some of the freshest, up-and-coming artists getting their first major exhibitions alongside celebrated artists including Mary Delany, Andy Warhol and Barbara Hepworth to Édouard Manet. A wide range of techniques and practices are represented, including drawings using makeup on face wipes by Sin Wai Kin, to a drawing made with chalk collected from the white cliffs of Dover by Josephine Baker. To ensure the region is rightfully represented, the Museum have collaborated with The Northern School of Art to ensure that some of the region’s upcoming artists are featured, along with a selection of works from Hartlepool’s own fine art archive (curated by the Hartlepool Young Producers), with works dating as far back as the 18th Century. By pairing all these works together, the exhibition aims to create a vivid testament to the undying staying power of

Titularly inspired by the ‘gamble’ of genres taking place, Roulette Festival at Sunderland’s Independent promises a varied and eclectic mix of both new and established North Eastern talent on Saturday 4th May. A brand-new festival curated by students of Northern Academy of Music Education, a division of Sunderland University, the group behind the event intend to give back to the music scene within the city, as well as further nurturing a sense of community considerate of selfexpression and musical individuality. Taking place at centrally located Independent, the multi-stage venue will be host to an exciting array of local acts, spanning indie surf band Calvoas, captivatingly memorable rock ‘n’ roll group Pretty Velvet, hardcore metal band Divine Image, and upbeat singer-songwriter twins Twayn, alongside Lily Mac, Labyrinthine Oceans, Rascal, Ruby Kelly and more. The wide span of musical genres ensure a day where all audiences can discover some great local music.

Roulette Festival takes place at Independent, Sunderland on Saturday 4th May. www.independentsunderland.com

Inspired by Herman Melville’s classic, a creative depiction of Moby Dick sails into Northern Stage from Tuesday 21st-Thursday 23rd May. This atmospheric reimagining of the original nautical novel consists of a talented cast, including Guy Rhys (The Witcher/Mary Queen of Scots) as Captain Ahab and Mark Arends (Mr Bates vs The Post Office) as Ishmael.

A powerful tale ensues, as Captain Ahab incites his crew to enact revenge on the white whale, Moby Dick, for his lost leg. Created by the innovative theatre company Simple 8, Moby Dick brings to the fore matters of revenge, addiction and the power of nature for the audience to ponder.

Enhancing the maritime microcosm that exists only on that stage, the set consists of a dark, earthy colour palette and hues of blue and green – the deep depths of our underwater world – while carefully constructed scaffolding makes for a unique depiction of the hull of the boat, the Pequod. In an imaginative and fast-paced approach, complete with authentic sea shanties, this award-winning production questions the nature of human integrity and brings the audience face to face with the dangerous personalities of power-hungry leaders.

Moby Dick is performed at Northern Stage, Newcastle from Tuesday 21st-Thursday 23rd May.

www.northernstage.co.uk

Suede by Dean Chalkley

Drawing Attention, Image by Charmaine Watkiss

MUSIC FAMOUS LAST WORDS SHOWCASES @ THE GREEN ROOM/ INDEPENDENT

Words: Michael O’Neill

Teesside-based promoter Famous Last Words are a helluva busy bunch, with two equally stacked line-ups gracing two of the most sacred local venues. It’s always glorious to see

the local music community continue to thrive thanks to prolific promoters like these, seeking out some of the finest fledgling talent from across the region.

Kicking things off at Stockton’s Green Room on Saturday 4th May, showcasing a now sold out headliner from quintet Dossers, in anticipation of their single Trash. It’s a stacked support line-up too, with End Credits, The Hazy Janes and Tin Ribs rounding off a solid serving of frenetic fury. A similarly tantalising arrangement is in place for Sunderland’s Independent on Saturday 25th May, with a scorching headliner from Wigan-based quartet The Lilacs, who are staging a UK tour in the run up to a prestigious

headliner at Manchester’s iconic O2 Ritz. Support is once again pretty great, with turns from Red Remedy, Blackout The Arcade and Swindled. All in all, these two shows are a wonderful testament to the staying power of the DIY music community throughout the North, and a glorious insight into some future musical icons.

Dossers, End Credits, The Hazy Janes and Tin Ribs play The Green Room in Stockton on Saturday 4th may, and The Lilacs, Red Remedy, Blackout The Arcade and Swindled play Independent, Sunderland on Saturday 25th May.

www.flwevents.co.uk

11TH MAY

Dossers by EnA photography

FILM

HANNA TUULIKKI: AWAY WITH THE BIRDS @ BOWES MUSEUM

Words: Niamh Poppleton

Hanna Tuulikki has described her work as “revealing mnemonic topographies: the land encoded in the song and the lore embedded in the land”. Intrigued by the ways in which certain cultures mimic the world around them within their musical endeavours, her

film Away With The Birds is a deep dive into the representation of birds in Scottish Gaelic song. This outstanding film will be screened on Saturday 11th May at the Bowes Museum, followed by a performance lecture discussing themes of the work and discoveries made, and takes place as part of the museum’s current Murmurations exhibition, which runs until 23rd June.

Tuulikki believes that human language has evolved from listening to the sounds of the biosphere and imitating them. Through this short film, she expresses these beliefs through a powerful depiction of musical harmony with

birdsong. The film combines black and white footage that delineates the lasting power of nature with the vivid colours of footage that depicts an eerie, yet heavenly, performance of songs that are almost ghostly in their beauty. Throughout, waves rippling and birds singing unite with soothing harmonies to reveal the intriguing power and immense beauty held by the natural world, and the multitude of species that live alongside us.

Hanna Tuulikki: Away With The Birds is screened at Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle on Saturday 11th May.

www.hannatuulikki.org

Suede by Dean Chalkley

STAGE LIBERATION SQUARES @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Laura Doyle

If your government strategy sounds like it was lifted straight from a Philip K. Dick dystopian crime novella and now has an entire Amnesty International report outlining its human rights violations, it probably isn’t a very good strategy. The ‘Prevent’ programme has garnered criticism since its introduction, which

only ramped up after its 2015 amendment, becoming a hot topic for human rights activists internationally. It can be difficult to imagine the kind of pressure it puts on innocent civilians who may be unfairly profiled, which is why Liberation Squares is an important story to tell for those who haven’t been on the receiving end of a Prevent referral.

Inspired by graphic novels, hip-hop, pop culture and real-world activists, the three heroes of Liberation Squares, which is performed at Northern Stage on Friday 24th May, live typical lives for teenage Muslim girls, with their own hopes and aspirations for their futures. But

they’re about to learn a hard lesson about the society in which we all live: that freedom of speech ain’t so free if someone doesn’t like what you say. Worse still – you may be judged on what you might say or do, with no evidence other than the colour of your skin, your religious beliefs, or your political affiliation. It’s a difficult lesson to learn when you should be worrying more about your GCSEs – but it’s not too late for us to learn the same.

Liberation Squares is performed at Northern Stage, Newcastle on Friday 24th May.

www.northernstage.co.uk

MUSIC THE MYSTERY GUEST TOUR @ GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE

Words: Nat Greener

Embark on a musical adventure like never before as The In The Round Mystery Tour rolls into Gosforth Civic Theatre on Friday 17th May. Prepare for an evening where musical boundaries blur and creativity knows no limits. The show will feature the spellbinding talents of Americana Award winner Lady Nade, whose fusion of folk, soul, jazz and blues has had audiences and critics alike in raptures; Scottish/American Daisy Chute’s banjo, guitar and piano-based songs walk a line between traditional folk and Americana; while Cornwall’s Hollie Rogers’ powerful vocals and sincerity have won her considerable critical acclaim. As the artists perform on stage in turns, this event promises to be an eclectic fusion of melodies, harmonies and raw emotion. Adding a touch of local flavour to the mix, Newcastle’s own revered songwriters Martha Hill and Ruth Lyon join the line-up, bringing their unique sounds and stories to the stage.

From the intimate in-the-round setting, these dynamic artists will showcase their magic, inviting you to immerse yourself in a world of sound and sensation. Whether you’re drawn to soulful serenades, folk-infused melodies, or powerful ballads, there’s something for everyone to discover and savour.

Lady Nade, Daisy Chute, Hollie Rogers, Martha Hill and Ruth Lyon play Gosforth Civic Theatre on Friday 17th May.

www.gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk

MUSIC SNAPPED ANKLES @ THE CLUNY

Words: Lee Fisher

You should know by now that Wandering Oak always bring the good, good stuff and so it is with this excellent gig at The Cluny on Friday 10th May. Snapped Ankles have been at it for more than a decade, ‘it’ being a gloriously wonky, percussive storm that mixes up Neubeat rhythms, choppy post-punk tunes and rushing electronics. They grew out of art shows and squat parties and other unlikely propositions, often clad in their woodwose suits, and have now released a handful of albums and singles, mostly through Leaf, the most recent being a wonderful EP of Blurt covers (which perhaps tells you something about where they’re coming from). I first saw them on a painfully hot day in a painfully hot tent at Supernormal Festival where they performed a set that used log-based percussion to chop up cult movies live, and my mind undid itself.

Kiran Leonard is a fine choice of guest act, a peripatetic artist (both stylistically and in terms of labels) who is constantly changing up his creative practice and seems happiest when setting himself new parameters within which to work. He’s just released his first song-based album for a while – Real Home, via Memorials Of Distinction – and he’s touring with a new band that features members of caroline, Shovel Dance Collective and Historically Fucked, which sounds like very fine band indeed. Snapped Ankles and Kiran Leonard play The Cluny, Newcastle on Friday 10th May. www.snappedankles.com

STAGE THE OLIVE BOY @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Lena Moss

Up-and-coming comedy star, writer and performer Ollie Maddigan brings his critically acclaimed “crude but compelling” comedy show, The Olive Boy to the North East this May. Based on Ollie’s real life adolescent experience following the sudden loss of his mother, The Olive Boy tackles themes of grief, love, hope and identity. The one-man show, first performed in 2021, has grown with praise and popularity following a month-long sell-out run at Edinburgh Fringe in 2022.

From relationships, to escapism, to… olives, Ollie Maddigan explores whether there are any cut-corner coping mechanisms to combat grief. With a delicate balance of humour and sadness, The Olive Boy takes you on a journey through the complexities of early adulthood – tinged with all the expected awkwardness, swelling emotions and life-changing transformations.

Gaining rave reviews across the board, don’t miss this coming-of-age story of self-discovery when it comes to various venues across Northumberland and Tyneside this May.

The Olive Boy is at Laurel’s Theatre, Whitley Bay on Friday 10th-Saturday 11th, Alnwick Playhouse on Wednesday 15th and Customs House, South Shields on Thursday 16th May. www.theoliveboy.co.uk

Lady Nade by Alec Bowman Clarke

by Joerg Baumgarten

MUSIC PHAZED OUT FESTIVAL @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Laura Doyle

As a wise fake substitute teacher played by Jack Black in an early 2000s movie once said: “You’re not hardcore unless you live hardcore.” Phazed Out Festival is a new venture here to help you live up to that mantra. On Saturday

11th May, three of our finest music venues in the Ouseburn – The Grove, The Cluny and The Tyne Bar – will be taken over by the all-new festival that focuses on established names and up-and-comers from the hardcore and alternative music scene – so it’s a must-go for all fans of the genres. The headline slot goes to staples of the New York hardcore punk scene, Sick Of It All. They’ve probably got enough material from their (almost) 40 year career to pack out the entire day, but this year does mark the 30th anniversary of landmark album Scratch the

Surface, and it’d be neat to see them celebrate such a milestone. Also performing will be Sheffield new(er) kids Rough Justice, who just celebrated the release of their debut record Faith In Vain, HC faves Street Soldier, a reunion set from Boston punks Lock & Key, explosive riff-meisters Negative Frame, Scottish alt. hardcore band Bitterwood and many, many more.

Phazed Out Festival takes place at The Grove, The Cluny and The Tyne Bar, Newcastle on Saturday 11th May.

www.phazedout.co.uk

Discover art

places

Discover contemporary art in National Trust properties across the North East in 2024.

nationaltrust.org.uk/north-east

MUSIC GOGO PENGUIN @ WYLAM BREWERY

Words: Cameron Wright

“Everything is going to be OK” are important and necessary words. In the hubbub of life’s myriad of obstacles, obligations and obscenities, it is imperative to take a step and remind yourself that everything is going to be OK.

It’s a phrase minimalist jazz trio GoGo Penguin are keen for you to adopt, as it’s the title for their recently released album, which they’ll be performing tracks from at Wylam Brewery on Sunday 12th May. GoGo Penguin have been putting out records for over a decade, constantly refining their blend of delicate, piano-driven instrumentals. From the jazz inspiration of their earliest records, their virtuosity was blatant. Luscious landscapes of sound wash over the listener as beautiful, twinkling piano passages flow across the ether, with a double bass and drums anchoring each piece, adding a depth and control to the tracks. With each release, their vision and scope has grown, and they are at their most cinematic on Everything Is Going To Be OK. Born out of recent years’ hardship, the album marks a new chapter for the band as they emerge anew, with a new drummer and new record label. Bursting with hope, optimism and heart, never has their sound been such an overflow of awe and adventure.

Always emotive and inspired, GoGo Penguin are a band that love creating, sharing and playing,

and that sense of play has never been more apparent.

GoGo Penguin play Wylam Brewery, Newcastle on Sunday 12th May. www.gogopenguin.co.uk

COMEDY

ZOE @ TYNE THEATRE & OPERA HOUSE

Words: Jake Anderson

Newcastle’s beautiful Tyne Theatre & Opera House will play host to the eccentric and completely dog obsessed character of Zoe Best, who will take to the stage on Friday 10th May for a night of humorous anecdotes and audience banter with her show Zoe Explains It All.

Zoe prides herself on channelling the mundanities of working life, flexing both her Bag For Life collection and her love for a good quality worn fleece, and local quiz hounds may know Zoe as one of the hosts of one of The Cumberland Arms’ monthly quiz nights.

If you have any questions that you’ve always wanted to ask but you didn’t want to be seen as stupid, or perhaps something that has always bewildered you, Zoe has got you covered. Zoe Explains It All will be the perfect time to ask, as the show has been described as an immersive comedy experience. For one night only, Zoe is asking that audience members email their questions to zoebestanswers@gmail.com, and questions will be read aloud during the show and answered, in what promises to be an interesting and quick witted display of comedic talent.

MUSIC

JON LANGFORD & THE BRIGHT SHINERS @ THE CENTRAL BAR

Words: Lee Fisher

Jon Langford is an artist, writer, cartoonist, musician, anti-capital punishment campaigner and proud Welshman. He has been in at least twenty bands over his 45 years as a musician – including of course The Mekons, where this all started, but also The Three Johns, The Waco Brothers, Men Of Gwent and, fleetingly, Sisters Of Mercy. He’s probably formed another three since I wrote this.

Perhaps his latest is the wonderful Bright Shiners, who include Tamineh Gueramy, Alice Spencer, and John Szymanski, perhaps Jon’s most regular collaborator outside Mekonworld. They’ve just released their debut album Where It Really Starts on the reliably excellent Tiny Global label, to brilliant reviews, and it’s one of the best of his career, soulful and intimate and full of surprising sonic touches. It’s a gem. And thanks to Hapless Museum Worker, we get to see them on Tyneside, a Central Bar gig on Saturday 18th May which promises to be very special even by Jon’s standards.

Jon Langford & The Bright Shiners play The Central Bar, Gateshead on Saturday 18th May. www.facebook.com/jonboylangford

Zoe performs at Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle on Friday 10th May.

GoGo Penguin by Emily Dennison

MUSIC THE K’S @ KU

Words: Matthew Brown

Warrington’s Brit-rockers, The K’s, are set to captivate audiences at KU, Stockton, with an acoustic performance on Saturday 11th May, marking a pivotal moment celebrating the release of their debut album, I Wonder If The World Knows. This intimate show promises fans an opportunity to experience the band’s

dynamic energy in a stripped-back setting, offering a stark contrast to their usually electrifying live shows. For those yet to encounter The K’s impassioned bangers, now is the time to catch up on a band that has, in the last year alone, sold out a UK tour, played the Albert Hall Manchester and graced festivals including Reading & Leeds.

Having opened for Liam Gallagher and supported James, The K’s bring a depth of experience from grand stages to the intimate ambiance of KU. This set will feature tracks from their debut, including the emotionally

charged singles Lights Go Down and Hoping Maybe, both anticipated to shine in acoustic retellingsand revealing new dimensions to their already profound narratives. Fans can also anticipate unplugged renditions of tracks such as Sarajevo, Glass Towns and Got A Feeling. This promises to be a unique invitation to see the band in an intimate backdrop ideally suited for nuanced storytelling.

The K’s play KU, Stockton on Saturday 11th May.

www.theks.band

STAGE

YOU HAVE ALREADY SURVIVED @ LIVE THEATRE

Words: Matthew Brown

Coming to Newcastle’s Live Theatre from Thursday 23rd May-Wednesday 5th June, you have already survived is a captivating solo theatre show by artistic associate gobscure, in a celebration of resilience and connection with the natural world. This poignant production takes the audience on a journey along the River Usk, exploring its historical and personal significance to gobscure, from the site of Britain’s last insurrection in Newport to the inspiring wilderness of its source. The show seamlessly blends personal narrative with broader socio-political themes, highlighting key moments like gobscure’s first childhood poem, their defiance at a punk gig, and encounters with nature’s resilience like the ancient Defynnog Yew and the red kites’ comeback. This narrative is interwoven with elements of Welsh heritage, such as the right to play and post-traumatic growth, illustrated through the metaphor of the river that has shaped gobscure’s existence.

Accompanying the live performance is an immersive installation in Live Theatre’s studio space, featuring a mix of film, poetry banners and a collage of original songs and soundscapes. This multimedia approach enriches the storytelling, offering a sensory exploration of gobscure’s vast and varied inner world. This show and installation promise to forge universal connections, bringing audiences a message of hope, survival and transformation.

you have already survived is performed at Live Theatre, Newcastle from Thursday 23rd May-Wednesday 5th June. www.live.org.uk

COMEDY

YOUR AUNT FANNY’S TIME OF THE MONTH @ THE STAND

Words: Nat Greener

Get ready to unleash your inner laugh monster; Your Aunt Fanny are about to drop their latest comedic bombshell, Time Of The Month, at The Stand on Tuesday 14th May. As the North East’s favourite girl gang takes the mic, prepare for a comedic whirlwind that have had critics raving.

Your Aunt Fanny aren’t your ordinary comedy troupe; they’re a force to be reckoned with, serving up humour hotter than a freshly brewed cuppa. With their razor-sharp wit and unapologetic charm, it’s a laughter marathon where the only finish line is your abs giving out! Time Of The Month marks the crew’s first regular comedy night, and serves to further cement the regard they’re held in. Giving audiences an opportunity to revel in their own brand spanking new material, the monthly shows will also feature sets from two stand-up pros. To round the night off, Bryan Does Food provides scran to wrap your chops around before the hilarity begins. With reviews raving about Your Aunt Fanny’s comedic genius and inclusive atmosphere, Time Of The Month promises to be a side-splitting extravaganza. Don’t miss it.

Your Aunt Fanny’s Time Of The Month takes place on Tuesday 14th May at The Stand, Newcastle. www.yourauntfanny.co.uk

MUSIC

EARTH BALL @ THE LUBBER FIEND

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

The Lubber Fiend has, rightfully, become a well-respected hub of experimental and improvisational music in its short life-span, showcasing the best international artists working within these disciplines.

As a happy continuation of this trend, Earth Ball will grace the venue on Sunday 26th May.

Comprised of experimental rock pedigree from the Pacific North West, Earth Ball release their inaugural LP on Upset The Rhythm on 17th May. The group are comprised of Isobel Ford, John Brennan and Jeremy Van Wyck, all seasoned musicians who have collaborated and toured with artists as diverse as Deerhoof, Wolf Eyes and Raven Chacon. Debut single A Need To Cool Down applies kosmiche rhythms to Sonic Youth dynamics to make for a blissful, disorientating punch to the gut. It’s a record of refined feedback and motorik rhythms, as transportative as it is disorientating. They will be joined on tour by critically acclaimed improvisational drummer Chris Corsano, who has collaborated with everyone from Bjork to Jim O’ Rourke. This promises to be a pretty special evening of mesmerising improvisational music, and a must for any fans of avant-garde composition.

Earth Ball and Chris Corsano play The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle on Sunday 26th May. www.earthball.bandcamp.com

Your Aunt Fanny by Jessie’s Whimsical Photography

COMEDY RICHARD HERRING @ ARC

Words: Jake Anderson

If you are squeamish like me, reading the description of Richard Herring’s upcoming night at ARC would’ve made your toes curl. The comedian, known for his show Talking Cock as well as old-school delights like Fist of Fun alongside comedy pal Stewart Lee, experienced a cruel twist of fate when he

LIVE MUSIC

discovered his right testicle had grown quite large. Diagnosed with testicular cancer, Herring found himself in hospital “getting his murderous gonad removed”. Six years later, Herring intends to get back on stage to talk ‘bollocks’ in his new stand-up show Can I Have My Ball Back?, which will find itself in Stockton on Friday 24th May.

Herring has kept himself busy since he last performed stand-up. In 2020 he was crowned the winner of daft TV game show Taskmaster, and over lockdown he maintained his podcast Richard Herring’s Leicester Square by streaming it live over Twitch, engaging his

audience with his satirical wit. Known for his dry delivery and somewhat off-the-wall approach, his return to stand-up will undoubtedly provide an evening full of hilarity and is certainly one for those that are interested in finding out whether a “murderous gonad” is a worthy prize on Taskmaster…

Richard Herring performs at ARC, Stockton on Friday 24th May, returning to the region at The Stand, Newcastle on Monday 17th June, and The Witham, Barnard Castle on Friday 5th July. www.richardherring.com

STITCH A MINI BANNER WITH BIANCO PERRY, 8TH MAY, 6-8PM

MEAD MAKING FOR BEGINNERS, 22ND MAY, 6-8PM WORKSHOPS

ART & LIT NEWCASTLE POETRY FESTIVAL @ NORTHERN STAGE

Words: Niamh Poppleton

From Thursday 9th-Saturday 11th May, Newcastle Poetry Festival will convene on Stage 2 of Northern Stage. The festival is brimming with readings, writing workshops and panel discussions to entertain the mind and soul, revolving around the theme: In/Out of Place.

Highlights include a celebration of poetry which explores language, the environment, art and pop culture, with writers Harry Man, Jane Burn and Linda France; Nostalgia: Architectures of Longing, a lecture with musician, poet and T.S. Eliot Prize winner Anthony Joseph, that reflects upon the ways in which memory, longing and nostalgia can shape the nature of a poet; there’s a study on women poets in translation; Poetry Live returns with eager enthusiasm from many, with poets such as Carol Ann Duffy and Imtiaz Dharker, accompanied by chief examiner, Tony Childs – this is an especially useful event for GCSE students, however anyone is welcome to attend.

Several workshops will be taking place to allow the poet inside you to bloom and thrive; Eco Poems and Non-Human Perspectives is an inventive workshop which allows attendees to seize the opportunity to write from the perspective of an animal or an object from nature. Tickets range from £12 to £24, depending on the days you attend.

Newcastle Poetry Festival takes place at Northern Stage, Newcastle from Thursday 9th-Saturday 11th May.

www.newcastlepoetryfestival.co.uk

MUSIC THE BREATH @ COBALT STUDIOS

Words: Michael O’Neill

Nestled away in the heart of the Ouseburn, Cobalt Studios have steadfastly affirmed themselves as one of Newcastle’s, and indeed the North East’s, finest gems in the world of music events. From their now-iconic Fresh Thursdays through to their commitment to showcasing the most diverse and enthralling artists from the world over, and this class line-up on Friday 31st May is no exception to the rule.

Headliners The Breath consist of duo Ríoghnach Connolly and Stuart McCallum; fresh from the release of their third LP Land of My Other, over a solid body of work the duo have built up a reputation for crafting vivid and engrossing songs which channel stream of poetic consciousness and rich soundscapes which coalesce to conjure up a glorious world of sound. Support comes from local singersongwriter Liz Corney, a founding member of local legends alt. pop outfit The Cornshed Sisters (and touring keyboardist for Field Music). Her forthcoming solo project channels existentialism, change and communication struggles through the prism of Motown, Queen, Abba and the Carpenters. The bill is rounded off with a solo set from local singer-songwriter Nicky Rushton. It’s another cracking line-up of brilliant songwriting talent, in one of the finest creative spaces in the Toon to boot!

The Breath, Liz Corney and Nicky Rushton play Cobalt Studios, Newcastle on Friday 31st May. www.thebreathmusic.com

MUSIC

THE RIFLES @ KU

Words: Matthew Brown

Indie rock aficionados are in for a treat as The Rifles gear up to electrify the stage at KU, Stockton, on Saturday 18th May. This much-anticipated gig marks their return to Teesside after nearly two decades, coinciding with the launch of their seventh album, Love Your Neighbour. The Rifles, who burst onto the scene in 2005 with their compelling garage rock ‘n’ roll vibe, reminiscent of The Jam and peers like The Kooks, continue to hold a special place in the hearts of indie music fans.

With a history rich in critical acclaim, including nods from NME and BBC Radio 1’s Zane Lowe, the band’s journey from their debut album No Love Lost to the intimate The Rifles Unplugged, recorded at Abbey Road studios, showcases their dynamic evolution.

The Rifles are set to deliver a night to remember at KU, a venue that has witnessed performances from indie guitar icons such as Arctic Monkeys, The Enemy and many more. Adding the Chingford outfit to this illustrious list marks the latest in a long line of established names to crack the boards at the iconic Prince Regent Street venue, continuing its legacy as a pivotal stage for premier indie music acts.

The Rifles play KU, Stockton on Saturday 18th May.

The Breath by Paul Husband

EVENTS

SCIENCE SPEAKEASY: FAKE OR FACT @ LIFE SCIENCE CENTRE

Words: Matthew Brown

As Artificial Intelligence weaves its way ever deeper into the fabric of daily life, Newcastle’s Life Science Centre is poised to pull back the curtain on the technology’s darker, more deceptive underbelly with their upcoming event, Fake or Fact, taking place on Thursday 16th May. This edition of the Science Speakeasy series will spotlight the increasingly indistinct lines between reality and AI-generated falsehoods, just as the UK braces for its next general election.

Attendees will engage with a distinguished panel, including Luke Chambers, a researcher in Artificial Intelligence Law at Northumbria University, and Daniel Jolley, a social psychologist who studies conspiracy theories at Nottingham University. The experts will unpack the ramifications of deepfakes and AI-generated disinformation, particularly when it comes to their worrying impact on global politics and personal security.

This timely discussion highlights the critical need to discern the real from the artificially fabricated as AI technology becomes more embedded in everyday activities, from interacting with voice assistants to navigating systems reliant on facial recognition and automated decision-making. With the 2022 Royal Society Report underscoring the public’s struggle to identify deepfakes, this event offers a vital platform for navigating the complexities

of a world increasingly dominated by AI. Science Speakeasy: Fake or Fact takes place at Life Science Centre, Newcastle on Thursday 16th May. www.life.org.uk

MUSIC NORA BROWN @ THE CLUNY 2

Words: Lee Fisher

There are prodigies, and then there is Nora Brown. Still not twenty and with three excellent albums on Jalopy Records to her name, she’s been playing banjo and guitar since she was six and learned at the knee of some of the best Appalachian traditional musicians around (surprisingly for someone steeped in this music, she’s from NYC not South Carolina). There are YouTube clips of her barely in her teens playing mercurial, electrifying banjo tunes like it ain’t no big deal (check her version of Hares On The Mountain with a full band, it’ll knock yr socks off). Brown has also been playing and recording with Chicago fiddle player Stephanie Coleman for a few years, a brilliant player in her own right (she’s the record holder for most ribbons won in the renowned fiddle contest at the Appalachian String Band Music Festival), and what the two of them create together is timeless and magical. And they’re coming to Newcastle on Wednesday 29th May, a typically brilliant Jumpin’ Hot Club booking at Cluny 2. If you’re a fan of that high lonesome sound – and if not, why not? – you don’t want to miss this. Nora Brown plays The Cluny 2, Newcastle on Wednesday 29th May. www.norabrownmusic.com

MUSIC LONG KNIFE @ THE LUBBER FIEND

Words: Matt Young

Notorious Portland, Oregon hardcore punk band Long Knife will bring their powerful garage rock sound and dive bar aesthetic to The Lubber Fiend on Tuesday 21st May on a rare UK tour. As a band immersed in early 80s American hardcore, they rip open everything from classic rock to Japanese hardcore to create a unique heavy sound all of their own. Since 2014’s Possession EP they’ve run roughshod and ruthless through the last decade with a trio of albums and numerous singles that combine scathing, blistering energy, and brutally aggressive musical tones with throat-tearing vocals. Fans of the genre and bands like fellow PDX hardcore legends Poison Idea will know what to expect, as the quartet pummels their way through a set of classic and newer material drawn from their entire catalogue up to the most recent Curb Stomp Earth album from 2022. The night also promises to include some top-notch supports still to be announced at time of press, so do yourself a favour and get along early, support the bands and smaller venues and experience the whole sweaty, sleazy event first-hand.

Long Knife plus support TBA play The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle on Tuesday 21st May.

www.longknife.bandcamp.com

Nora Brown

MUSIC SONGS

FROM NORTHERN BRITAIN @ THE GEORGIAN THEATRE

Words: Michael O’Neill

Now in its eleventh instalment, the Songs From Northern Britain all-dayer returns to Stockton’s Georgian Theatre for another offering on Saturday 18th May, replete with local icons and fledgling tunesmiths. For a tenth of the ticket cost to see [iconic American singer’s name redacted] and the [backing band of said musician redacted] at [local sports stadium name redacted] you can feast on an incredible banquet of sonic splendour.

The line-up, presented Tees Music Alliance and The Kids Are Solid Gold is a staggering one, headlined by York’s finest quintet BULL, fresh from the release of their killer LP Engines of Honey. The line-up also features the region’s foremost iconic punk supergroup Irked, poet and stand-up comedian Cooper Robson, Maxïmo Park’s six-stringer in chief Duncan Lloyd, and the likes of Twayn, Girls.Speak. French, Day Sleeper, Saint Sappho, Blackout The Arcade, Chat, Grave Faces and The Larches. The legendary Vic Galloway (of BBC Scotland and BBC 6Music) will once again be compering the day, which is guaranteed to be another iconic instalment of a vital and essential addition to the region’s festival calendar, boasting the variety and quality that reinforces the strength of the North as a powerhouse of musical talent.

Songs From Northern Britain takes place at The Georgian Theatre, Stockton on Saturday 18th May. www.thekidsaresolidgold.co.uk

MUSIC THE HIGHTOWNS @ VARIOUS VENUES

Words: Lee Fisher

The Hightowns are a relatively recent outfit but also a supergroup of sorts. Ben Holland and Pete Moffat are best known for Winter Hill Transmission, who won a lot of love a few years back before calling it a day. They’re both playing acoustic guitars and singing gorgeous harmonies in a band that also includes Neil Hopper (double bass) and Katja Roberts (violin) from the marvellous Tyneside-meets-French Quarter jazz band The House of The Black Gardenia, and Tom Bacon – another Winter Hill alumnus – on drums.

The Hightowns came about through Ben and Pete’s deep affection for the Everly Brothers and it shows: their debut album Stories In The Walls (which they’re self-releasing on 4th May) is soaked in that gorgeous harmony style, which fits beautifully with the small-town storytelling of the songs (they’ve cited John Prine and Jake Thackray as influences, which is always a good sign). Katja’s mother is the acclaimed Finnish photographer Sirkka-Liisa Konttinen and it’s her work that has influenced the charming album art by Ben and also perhaps the content of the songs too. Recorded live in Thropton, the album is a warm, melodic affair and it’s getting a warm, melodic launch gig to boot. The Hightowns will be joined by the divine Brick and Americana-tinged songwriter

Sam Shields at North Shields Catholic Club on Saturday 4th May for what promises to be a fine old time.

The Hightowns play North Shields Catholic Club on Saturday 4th, The White Room in Stanley on Friday 10th, and Two by Two Brewery in Newcastle on Saturday 18th May.

www.thehightowns.bandcamp.com

STAGE

SOULS & CELLS @ DANCE CITY

Words: Maria Winter

On Friday 10th May, embark on a mesmerising journey through movement and emotion as the poetic dance duo Akeim Toussaint Buck and Crystal Zillwood share their evocative production Souls and Cells at Dance City. Weaving together stories, song and ritual, prepare to be spellbound by an evening of fluidity and grace, as these talented artists weave together a tapestry of creativity.

Developed by the two contemporary dancers who met while training in Leeds, the duo’s performances represent the passion and connection that brought them together.

With each step, Akeim and Crystal explore the depths of human experience, delving into the intricate connections between souls and the very essence of our being – our cells.

Join the duo at Dance City for an evening of poetic exploration, that will linger in your memory long after the final curtain falls.

Souls & Cells is performed at Dance City, Newcastle on Friday 10th May.

www.dancecity.co.uk

Souls & Cells

STAGE KONTEMPORARY KOREA: A DOUBLE BILL OF K:DANCE @ DANCE CITY

Words: Matt Young

The vibrant world of K:Dance is showcased at Dance City on Saturday 18th May with a special double-bill performance as part of the National Festival of Korean Dance 2024. Now in

its seventh year, the festival works with leading artists from the Korean contemporary dance scene.

Tomorrowisnowtodayisyesterday (TiNTiY) by choreographer Sung Im Her explores the over-saturation of (social) media and sharing in society by using the ideas of skits, memes, challenges and trends. It examines the fun but also often darker undertones that can lead to alternate truths, fake news, conspiracies and a level of unease facing society. With stark staging and club-like music by duo Husk Husk, dancers move between individual and shared experiences and identities.

The second performance to feature is Flight from choreographer Cheol-in Jeong’s Melancholy Dance Company. This piece uses flight as a jumping-off point, figuratively if not quite literally, as humanity expresses itself, desiring to overcome the limits of ambition and capability. Expanding our reach through art, using the body language of its two dancers to overcome limitations together, it’s something that cannot be achieved alone.

Kontemporary Korea: A Double Bill of K:Dance is at Dance City, Newcastle on Saturday 18th May.

www.dancecity.co.uk

Coming up at The Glasshouse

Sunday 12 May Split the Air by Martin Green: Performed by Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Sunday 12 May

Daniel Erdmann’s Thérapie de Couple

Saturday 18 May Jodie Nicholson

Saturday 25 May Nubiyan Twist

Sunday 26 May SARĀB

Thursday 6 June Elle Chante: Accessible Dreamscapes

Thursday 13 June

Faye

MacCalman: Invisible Real

Image by Sanhoon

MUSIC SCOTT HEPPLE AND THE SUN BAND @ THE LUBBER FIEND

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

After an exceptionally successful 2023, which saw the release of a brilliant debut album Ashes To Wildflowers and an extensive European tour, Newcastle psych rockers Scott Hepple And The Sun Band are set to release second album Lammas.

Recorded with Maximo Park’s Duncan Lloyd and mastered by Carl Saff (Sonic Youth, Ty Segall), Lammas is a heavier record than its predecessor, leaning into the group’s more abrasive influences. This is apparent on opening song Junction, which has more in common with garage music of the 1960s than it has with The Incredible String Band. The record isn’t without room for tenderness; Killing Days is a Kevin Ayers-esque ballad that displays the group at their most vulnerable. With its preceding two singles, Sun And Moon and Junction, the band will take to the road for another extensive tour of the UK and Europe, sharing the stage with renowned rock acts Love and Acid Mothers Temple in places as far flung as Switzerland and Czechia.

Scott Hepple And The Sun Band release Lammas on 3rd May. They play Newcastle’s Lubber Fiend on Friday 17th May and Gosforth Civic Theatre (with Love) on Wednesday 24th July.

www.scottheppleandthesunband. bandcamp.com

MUSIC SK SHLOMO: BREATHE @ THE GLASSHOUSE

Words: Tommy Robertson

Following an OFFIE-nominated run at the Royal Albert Hall in London and winning a Fringe Award in Edinburgh’s 2022 nominations, non-binary songwriter, beatboxer and looping champion SK Shlomo brings their acclaimed BREATHE show to The Glasshouse on Sunday 5th May.

Somewhere between a play, concert and a rave, the show is an autobiographical account following a series of tumultuous years for the performer, and details how musicality led them through these difficult times in a profound way.

At the forefront of this narrative, portrayed through both story-telling and music, the one-person show is a celebration which highlights Shlomo’s versatility and resilience. Alongside the performance, the new album sharing the title of BREATHE soundtracks the rave-centric atmosphere of the show, putting a deeply emotionally charged experience within the soundscape of the story.

As an artist, SK Shlomo is best known for their beatboxing talents which have brought them international acclaim, performing alongside Björk, Imogen Heap and Ed Sheeran, the latter being brought out during their Glastonbury set. Following this dabble into the mainstream, a period of introspection and ultimately recovering, it was rave culture and music that ultimately had the healing power to allow SK Shlomo to return to the stage.

SK Shlomo: BREATHE is at The Glasshouse, Gateshead on Sunday 5th May. www.skshlomo.com

ART

& LIT

NORTH EAST EMERGING ARTIST AWARD @ SEATON DELAVAL HALL

Words: Claire Dupree

No matter your discipline, making it in the art world can be a daunting prospect, and gaining a platform big enough to propel you to the next level is often untenable to emerging artists. The North East Emerging Artist Award aims to change that, by showcasing and supporting the work of early career artists and giving them a huge outlet – the National Trust’s Seaton Delaval Hall – to showcase their work.

A joint endeavour by curator Matthew Jarratt and the National Trust, the North East Emerging Artist Award is now in its third year and aims to showcase site specific contemporary art in an historic context. Following a call-out for artists in Autumn 2022, eight shortlisted proposals were voted for by visitors and three artists were presented with bursaries and mentoring to realise their ideas. From Wednesday 15th May-Sunday 23rd June, work by sculptor Rachel Blackwell, fashion and textile specialist Jacob Goff and multi-talented audio artist Wambui Hardcastle will go on display at the Northumberland venue, and once again visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite shortlisted proposals from the third year cohort at the same time.

The work displayed aims to challenge visitors’ perceptions of the National Trust site, by encouraging viewers to consider the site’s environmental importance, the work of its volunteers and to imagine the future of the hall itself, adding further delight to what is already a stunning property to visit.

The North East Emerging Artist Award is at

Scott Hepple And The Sun Band by David Hall

INTERVIEWS

IRKED

A FORTHRIGHT YET DETERMINEDLY VIBRANT SOUND HAS MADE IRKED AN INSTANT HIT ON THE REGION’S LIVE CIRCUIT

ALI WELFORD CHATS WITH HELEN WALKINSHAW FROM THE NORTH EAST PUNKS ABOUT THEIR DEBUT EP

Don’t let talk of their debut EP fool you – Irked are no band of novices. In fact, in preparation for this piece I was struck – nay, horrified – by the number of previous articles where I’d lumbered them with the dreaded tag of ‘supergroup’. Perhaps I’m being harsh on myself; after all, I could have labelled them ‘scene veterans’.

It’s reassuring, at least, that vocalist Helen Walkinshaw’s own characterisation isn’t that far removed: “It’s a bit of a Frankenstein’s Monster!” she offers, on a quintet whose collective CV includes Blóm, Weekend Faithful, Biscuit Mouth, Frankie & The Heartstrings, Pet Crow, Cave Suns, Tough Tits, Shy Talk and Pure Graft, among others. “We’re all bringing our insights from other bands and wanting to try different things from those projects. We were originally going for something more angular, but instead it’s ended up being pretty straight-up punk. I don’t know whether that’s simply through laziness, but it was definitely accidental!”

First established by Simon Hubbard (guitar) and Zach McDade (drums), Irked quickly expanded with the addition of long-time cohorts Helen (vocals) and Mike Hill (bass), with Sean Kenny (guitar) also recruited having relocated from Derby. “Hub and Zach had the name before the rest of us came along,” Helen reveals. “Everyone knows the assignment when they join a band called Irked – you’re huffed! – but the guys know what they’re doing and if we make mistakes we can usually iron them out. I don’t think Zach would mind me saying they play a lot better now than when we formed Tough Tits!” Brisk, fiercely direct and stripped of all fat, a forthright yet determinedly vibrant sound has made Irked an instant hit on the region’s live circuit, bolstered by slots alongside the likes of Big Joanie, Part Chimp and Hey Colossus. Indeed, as Helen

recalls, it was a show with the latter in Manchester which ultimately – if indirectly – brought about the release of this month’s eponymous EP, following the 11th hour withdrawal of original distributors Scene Report (a situation that’s likewise affected fellow North Easterners Fast Blood).

“Joe [Thompson] and Chris [Summerline] from Hey Colossus run Wrong Speed Records, and they offered to pick it up,” she reports. “The EP was only ever supposed to be demos, but we were getting to the point where we could no longer get away without having anything released! Sean and Mike recorded and mixed it all at the Off Quay Building, and Joe and Chris decided it was too good not to put out. They’re taking our album forward next year too.”

It’s not hard to hear why they reached that conclusion. Having already tackled creeps in local music scenes and the perils of navigating unwanted attention with raucous singles Backstreets and Move, the release offers further thrills in Snakes’ urgent take on sleep paralysis and the “repetitive gibberish” (and, it must be said, ravishing hooks) of Crippling Empath. Lanzarote, meanwhile, is a tongue-in-cheek document of social and political change, explored through the markers of Helen’s family holidays in the ‘90s and ‘00s (“My Dad’s since come to see us and informed me we actually went to Fuerteventura,” she admits “It’s a bit late to change now!”)

With plenty more in the tank and no shortage of topics to rile them up, there’s every chance this assemblage could prove its members’ most enduring and far-reaching pursuit to date. Irked’s eponymous debut EP is released in May through Wrong Speed Records.

www.irkedband.com

PEONY

DAMIAN ROBINSON DISCUSSES THE NOISE AND CHAOS OF MODERN LIVING WITH

Opening with their thunderous single Low Low Low, the debut album by local guitar gods Peony is anything but subtle. Driven by a pounding bass rumble and crashing drum rolls, Low Low Low is a serious statement of Royal Blood-inspired ferocious rock and screaming lyrics. A subtle aside about modern life this is not; this is an intentional piece of art focused on the noise and chaos of modern living.

“We really tried not to be obvious with the record,” comments guitarist and vocalist William Rees (one half of the Peony duo which also includes percussionist Ryan Gray), “but when we got into the studio a lot of what is on the record poured out of us, so it’s potentially a lot more raw and spontaneous – both in terms of music, lyrics and singing than we originally intended.”

Supported by two additional singles – the Queens of the Stone age vibey Varmint Rifle, and the glam/funky guitar powered Man II Uomo – Vast Animals is a tour de force of the rock genre; mixing glam with 1970s sounding classic moments. It’s one heck of a debut.

“We went into the studio with Chris McManus from Blank Studios and with his help we became more and more confident with the sounds and the songs as we went on. Before we knew it we’d recorded most of the songs in only a few takes and, not that we realised it at the time, but when we listened back Chris really helped us capture a sound and an energy that we’re really proud of. We were a little nervous about capturing our live sound onto a record, but we’re really happy with what we have.”

MUSIC SHOULDN’T BE FORMULAIC AND PERFECT, IT SHOULD BE RAW AND REAL AND FULL OF EMOTION

ROCK DUO PEONY

A growing reputation for a diverse, almost jazz-style, approach to live music added extra thoughts to the recording: “When we play live we like to mix things up and change the textures of songs, this keeps us interested and makes sure that every live show is unique and that we have a certain energy and tight-rope style to playing live. Live music should be exciting and raw; but that does add challenges when it comes to recording – it’s almost like you’re recording the version of each song as they appear today, knowing that they might change tomorrow. But that’s part of the fun, music shouldn’t be formulaic and perfect, it should be raw and real and full of emotion.”

Real, raw and full of emotion are almost the perfect tag lines for Vast Animals – an album full of lyrics about rebelling and a genuine intention to reach for the artistic heavens. Plans to get out and play live to tour the album are already in place (“though to be fair we’re not sure how well we’ll replicate the recordings as we’ll want to play the songs as if we were playing them for the first time”), as are thoughts about the next batch of songs (“we had such a good time with Chris and feel like we’re really developing as a band, so there’s ideas already developing”) but the immediate steps are to enjoy the moment, keep developing as musicians, and focus on the overall intent. “It’s great to have an album, it’s great to play live, but it’s maybe even better to enjoy the creative process with a friend and to share that with others. That’s the main aim. Everything else is a bonus.”

Peony release Vast Animals on 1st May. www.peonyduo.bandcamp.com

Image by Sammy Jetter-Kell

I. NAKHLA

DAVID SAUNDERS TALKS TO THE MULTI-DISCIPLINED ARTIST ABOUT THEIR EXPERIMENTAL AUDIO PERFORMANCE WHICH EXPLORES OUR THROWAWAY CULTURE

Unless you live under a rock or in denial, then you may be aware that the Earth is in trouble. Pollution is affecting our environment and one of the drivers of that is waste and wastefulness, something that will be explored in an experimental audio production coming to ARC, Stockton on Thursday 30th May.

WASTE is brought to you by I. Nakhla, an artist who works on the fringes of music, computational arts and sculpture. “I trained as a sculptor, and I feel lucky to have learnt how an art practice can be a conversation between object, subject and space. My computer is sort of my studio, which means software and programmes are often the site in which construction happens. I’m interested in how musical and computational practices can challenge more traditional, or galleristic, conceptions of place-making and exhibition. My default is almost always music and words: wherever I have my body, I can practise.”

It’s the sonic element of I. Nakhla’s practice that will be on show in WASTE, and their early influences can be traced back to dance music, as they explain. “As a teenager I listened to industrial drum and bass and dubstep – before I ever made art or music. Producers like Noisia and Icicle in the early 2000’s made me associate gritty electronic music with the sweatier places and states of mind I was growing into – with protest, dirt and community.”

The project came to fruition as a result of ARC’s open call to artists for their Make New Work programme in Autumn 2023. It’s support that I. Nakhla says is vital for artists like them. “Artists need funding and support to legitimise our careers and share experiences. ARC is a unique institution in the way it wants to play with the boundaries of theatre and community artwork.”

WASTE saw I. Nakhla speak to the local community to produce work that responds to what is on their minds. “These conversations are ongoing, and it’s been really informative

A LOT OF PEOPLE FEEL PRETTY POWERLESS IN RELATION TO THEIR EXPERIENCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION STAGE

learning about people’s different experiences of ‘waste’ whilst keeping the project non-party political. What I’ve learnt so far is that a lot of people, regardless of background or political position, feel pretty powerless in relation to their experience of environmental degradation, and often unheard by those who make the structural changes.”

For the final instalment of WASTE, I. Nakhla, alongside two selected creatives from the Teesside area and two Make New Work mentees, will present their research as an experimental audio performance, which will encompass music, words, field recording and catchy melodies. It challenges the narratives that determine what is classed as ‘resource’ and what as ‘waste’, and discusses who or what can be wasted.

I asked I. Nakhla what they think drives society’s attitudes to waste and if our throwaway culture is beginning to change? “One position could be that if we live in a society where profits are driven by consumption, then until politicians give big businesses and manufacturers financial incentive to minimise the waste that comes with continued consumption, then we won’t see significant change. I wish there was a different logic I could appeal to. In reality, there is no ‘away’ that we throw things.”

The final instalment of WASTE takes place at ARC Stockton on Thursday 30th May. A streamable record, documenting some of the audio work will be available via the end measure Spotify account.

www.linktr.ee/i.nakhla

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MARRAPALOOZA

WORDS: CLAIRE DUPREE

Inspired by the can-do attitude of the 90s punk scene, promoter David Littlefair (aka Portions For Foxes) is passionate about the creativity and passion that sparks from the DIY underground scene. “We can’t have a music and arts scene that’s solely the preserve and hobby of idle rich types with trust funds. We want to make something special that’s of and for our DIY community and that feels inclusive.”

The second iteration of Marrapalooza, the multi-venue weekender taking place in the Ouseburn Valley on Friday 17th-Saturday 18th May, has been programmed by Littlefair alongside Flat Four Records founder Hannah Couch and Tyne & Queer’s Beck Carol, with the forging of connections and the

MARRAPALOOZA HIGHLIGHTS

One thing we aim to do with our festival is bring together our alternative and grassroots scene with the North East’s brass band tradition. One of my favourite things this year is that we get to give a platform to Redhills Youth Brass Band, they’ll be early openers at the Cluny. See them!

Ex Vöid are just incredible songwriters in an indie pop tradition that’s somewhere between The Lemonheads and Belle And Sebastian. We organised a few gigs for their previous band Joanna Gruesome, which were absolutely incredible. One of the most innovative musicians and songwriters in the UK right now, never mind the North East, Me Lost Me has picked up plaudits all over the country for her futuristic blend of psychedelic electronica and traditional folk. Dilettante plays an incredibly intricate

building of communities in mind. “We want to have a bill that includes some of the leading lights of our music scene and also provides opportunities to people that are just starting out. I’m hoping that some of the bands we put on can meet some newer bands from other parts of the country. That’s a huge part of why we do this and why we try to make so much space for smaller bands from out of town.”

Super Furry Animals’ Gruff Rhys, Teesside rabble-rousers Benefits, Durham punks ONSIND and heartfelt songwriter

The Lake Poets head a roster of bands that’s inclusive and exciting. Here, the team offer up a few must-see artists from the extensive line-up. www.marrapalooza.co.uk

Simultaneously obnoxious and euphoric mix of dance punk, funk and breakbeats, Hang Linton is one of the most intense and interesting artists in the UK. You will be impressed. Mascaras Lies are a riotous two-piece from Middlesbrough that remind us of Death From Above 1979 at their best and are guaranteed to rip Little Buildings to shreds. Incredibly awesome avant-garde rock funk band Fashion Tips have developed a reputation for causing rooms of randoms to dance their backsides off. Feeble Strength make music that sounds like the 90s never ended; a sort of Mackem version of the Weakerthans or Superchunk.

Gruff Rhys

Me Lost Me by Amelia Read

Ex-Void by Jody Evans

FAST BLOOD

Hell hath no fury like a punk band scorned. Releasing new music for the first time since 2022’s single Pulling Teeth, Newcastle’s Fast Blood are dropping their debut album Sunny Blunts on 3rd May, and they are angry.

There have been a few iterations of the band over the years but there is now stability. A core four who are pushing themselves to their most ambitious and aggressive selves; railing against personal demons and coping with an ever degrading and disappointing society. Frustration simmering to a fever pitch gave birth to this album. Guitarist Dave Hillier started writing the songs back in the peak bad times of 2020 to prevent himself from going completely insane, channeling his love of 90’s emo/ hardcore and break-neck punk to bring a blend of the Descendents, Texas Is The Reason and Samiam to the fore. Of the album, Dave says: “At the risk of sounding like a proper cheese ball, it’s quite a journey. I don’t think one song sounds the same. It’s quite up and down.” And yet, there is a cohesive vision – abrasive, hook-laden, fast punk with a direct lineage to their previous work.

A prime example of Sunny Blunt’s unbridled rage comes in the form of lead single Sexual Healing – a criticism of societal double standards. “I’m annoyed that I still hear in this day and age the term ‘slut shaming’.” Says singer Abi Barlow. “It just

THERE’S A LOT OF SONGS THAT ARE ANGRY ABOUT THINGS THAT I CANNOT CHANGE

pisses me off, because if women want to have sex with whoever the fuck they want, then they should be able to do that, because men certainly can. There’s a lot of songs that are angry about things that I cannot change, but I can whine about it.”

The last few years have brewed cynicism and hardened Abi to the world, and there is sheer exasperation with the modern world laced throughout the album, such as Small Town, which brings to light the small mindedness that still exists despite how connected we are. “In every small town, there’s always going to be great people with great attitudes and morals but I’ve heard many shitty things about people who’ve never gone anywhere else, they’ve just lived there for a long time, not accepting of anything that’s new or different. I am from a small town and I’m not an arsehole. Well, I’m not an arsehole in that way.”

What Sunny Blunts has been able to capture is a band pushing themselves in every aspect – guitars that blast through a sea of riffs, drums and bass that never let up, and a singer digging deep, pushing past anxiety to deliver guttural screams. Hitting harder and heavier than ever before, the relentlessness and unforgiving nature of Fast Blood’s album is its strength. An album not pulling any punches by a band being exactly who they want to be. Dave sums it up nicely: “As you get older, you just give a shit less. You just don’t give a fuck anymore.”

Fast Blood launch Sunny Blunts at The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle on Sunday 5th May.

www.fastblood.bandcamp.com

JAMES HATTERSLEY DIGS INTO THE FILTH AND FURY BEHIND THE INDIE PUNKS’ DEBUT ALBUM

JAMES LEONARD HEWITSON

LINSEY TEGGERT TALKS TO THE MODEST POP SONGWRITER ABOUT HIS IDIOSYNCRATIC NEW ALBUM, OBSCURE INFLUENCES AND FEELING AT ODDS WITH LOCAL IDENTITY IMAGE BY AMELIA READ

“I’ve always found it more comfortable to be modest about everything,” states James Leonard Hewitson. “I think the self-deprecating thing is something I did as a teenager to sort of make friends, then it filtered into this artistic project.” For several years, the Hartlepool-based singer-songwriter has been making a name for himself with his wry brand of self-effacing slacker pop and collage-like sonic palette. His second album, More Pop, finds James embracing the 80s, and his more romantic side, albeit with a healthy dose of cynicism.

“I was listening to a lot of Sparks and New Order and stuff like that,” he recalls. “I had this job over lockdown, where I’d drive around in a little van and collect those rental e-scooters, changing the batteries and taking them back to the warehouse if they needed repairing. I had to listen to music that would get me through it, and that’s where the 80s came in.”

James references the pandemic several times when discussing his new record, but it’s to be expected given that his debut album Only The Noise Will Save Me was released in 2020, and

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the lion’s share of More Pop was born throughout lockdowns. We’ve been treated to various tasters at different intervals over the last two years, a slightly erratic timeline but one that somehow fits James’ impulsive approach to songwriting.

“None of the songs were written with the idea that they would all form one body of work; that’s why it’s called More Pop – it’s just another collection of songs. They’re just songs with choruses that are influenced by different periods of pop music,” he explains in his typically dry fashion. “I’d love it if there was some mad concept or deeper meaning, but most of the songs were written over pandemic times where it wasn’t possible to think long-term.”

He’s doing the modest thing again, of course. While More Pop is indeed “a collection of songs underpinned by sounds of popular music from the 60s to the 80s,” it’s a bloody brilliant one at that. Take Stable for example, the first taster we were treated to a few years back. It’s an infectious slice of pop genius with some of the most wonderfully witty lyrics you’ll ever hear. “I’m emotionally unavailable, I’m just doing what I can to keep myself stable” he sings languidly over skittering drum beats and pinging synths. Then there’s added Sparks-esque falsetto and psychedelic freak-out for good measure.

The 80s influence and a sense of romantic yearning are at play on the likes of Sideways and Disco In August, the latter being a surprisingly slinky hazy disco cut, which you can imagine was influenced by the trip to Berlin James describes, where he worked with a producer named Daniel Schaub.

I THINK THE SELF-DEPRECATING THING IS SOMETHING I DID AS A TEENAGER TO SORT OF MAKE FRIENDS, THEN IT FILTERED INTO THIS ARTISTIC PROJECT

There’s also another unexpected and rather obscure influence that has heavily impacted More Pop. “Speaking of the 80s, someone who got me started on this whole artistic journey is this artist from Peterlee called Eddie Huntington. I think he works at Stockton Council now, but he ran the drama club at my primary school and the first performance I did to a live audience was through this drama club. He was a pop star in the 80s but he was heavily marketed in Italy and the Soviet Union.” This all might sound a little bizarre, but a quick google search confirms this story. “He did this album called Bang Bang Baby (genuinely), and there’s this song on it called USSR, the synths on it are terrible but brilliant.”

Obscure 80s pop aside, one of the things James does best is pay homage to legendary crooners like Scott Walker and Harry Nilsson, particularly on album closer She Makes The Rain Go Away, his take on a retro love song.

“I suppose over the pandemic I must have felt quite lonely and a bit gutted,” he laughs. “Maybe it was a lot of the way movement was restricted, it made me yearn for that romance sadly. I kind of wrote about it cryptically and directly through these songs. With She Makes The Rain Go Away I wanted to do something a bit like Scott Walker, but I think it turned out as if Jonathan Richman was trying to sing a Scott Walker song. My writing is very much a what-pops-into-my-head technique, and I was driving and it was raining really heavily. I love that song, I think it’s proper weird in the context of now.”

There’s something about James’ sound that could only come from growing up in a faded North Eastern town – those ironic observations on everyday life. He still lives in Hartlepool, though he sometimes feels the way his Hartlepudlian roots are described can seem a bit of a gimmick. “It’s a shame, but that’s how it sort of starts to feel, within the context of the North East, everything is so Newcastle or Middlesbrough-centric, so being from somewhere a bit smaller can almost feel gimmicky.

“Hartlepool itself though...God, where to begin? It just kind of does what it wants, it votes how it wants, you can’t tell it what to do. It’s totally its own thing, I just happen to be from here. I don’t know if I’m someone who leads with the whole local identity thing, it’s just a fact about me.”

With More Pop, James has created a near-perfect idiosyncratic pop album, cementing his status as one of the most astute songwriters around right now. When asked about goals and hopes for the record, you expect a typically self-deprecating response, so it’s a surprise to hear him speak with the sort of self-belief his music rightly deserves.

“What I want people – in the North East or whatever – what I want people to realise...is that I can really fucking write. If they didn’t believe me the first time, believe me now. I can write music, I can write songs, and I’m good at it.” Well said.

James Leonard Hewitson releases More Pop on 31st May. He plays The Head of Steam, Newcastle on Saturday 1st June and The Green Room, Stockton on Friday 14th June.

www.linktr.ee/jamesleonardhewitson

GIFT FESTIVAL

WORDS: CLAIRE DUPREE

Taking place at venues in Gateshead from Friday 3rd-Sunday 5th May, GIFT provides audiences with a vast array of creative experiences, including performances, talks and workshops. From big ideas and themes to intimate performative forays, the beauty of GIFT lies in its variety. “I’m always keen to encourage artists to use GIFT as a space to try out new ideas, or do something a bit differently,” organiser Kate Craddock explains. “I am drawn to artists who are interested in connecting with audiences and participants and making new connections

GIFT FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

We are kicking off the first full day on Friday 3rd May with a workshop from Sung Im Her, an extraordinary choreographer and dancer at the top of their game, called Moving Cloud (for theatre). The workshop will focus on exploring Sung Im’s techniques as a movement director – something they are in high demand for at the moment.

On Saturday 4th May, amazing dance artist Akeim Touissant Buck is leading a Beatmotion Practice workshop – a chance to play and improvise vocally and physically. Also on Saturday 4th, award-winning show The Talent by Action Hero and Deborah Pearson is a one-woman tour de force by performer Gemma Paintin, and will be BSL interpreted by the brilliant local BSL interpreter and performer Faye Alvi.

Throughout the three days of the festival, a group of local participants aged 60+ will be rehearsing with returning artists (and festival favourites) Bertrand Lesca and Nasi Voutsas for the final show of the festival, aptly titled The Beginning. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the participants get involved as the chorus for the show, as well

through the festival.” While the ‘international’ in the event’s title is an important facet, Kate explains that local performers are also key to its success. “By platforming local artists in GIFT, they have the opportunity to try things out in a supportive

GIFT does – it brings artists together to share their practice and

Scott Turnbull and Tessa Parr are hosting our Little GIFT workshop for family audiences where kids will have the chance to get creative with overhead projectors, and felt tip pens and create their own Teeny-Tiny-Cinema experience. Also, Ziza Ngabonziza Patrick is sharing a new work in progress performance – the first 45 minutes of a stunning durational piece at an early stage of development in the gorgeous setting of St Mary’s Heritage Centre.

For those who are up for a more intimate encounter, I strongly recommend Manual, Je Suisse (or not) and This Endless Sea – all of which will transport you to another world, and are guaranteed to make you see the world around you in a very different light.

This Endless Sea by Chloe Smith

The Beginning by Marie Charbonnier The Talent by Action Hero & Deborah Pearson, image by Ana Viotti

MULTILINGUAL LIBRARY

WORDS: CLAIRE DUPREE

Having found a permanent home in Gateshead’s former Gloucester pub, Kittiwake Trust’s Multilingual Library is welcoming people from all over the world to be part of their community.

“In Gateshead there are more and more people coming from different countries around the world who need a place of sanctuary, a place where they can relax, knowing that no-one will berate them for speaking their own language,” explains Amina Marix Evans, founder of Kittiwake Trust.

Rather than feeling incongruous, the old pub setting is very welcoming – the big wooden bar houses a friendly librarian and hot drinks, the banquette booths provide cosy private spaces for

small group language lessons or just a comfortable place to read. There are over 20,000 books in 120 languages and the library is not only multilingual, but also multifaith, multicultural and multifunctional. “It’s aimed at everyone with an interest in books, languages, reading, tea, friends, acceptance and biscuits. The thrill people feel when they see their language on the shelf – sometimes after years without seeing their language in print – is a joy to behold.”

Forthcoming events include clandestine performance piece Manual, part of GIFT Festival (2nd-4th May), a day of celebration and information about Roma culture (16th May), and games, poetry and music during The Late Shows (18th May).

www.multilinguallibrary.org.uk

VICE KILLER

LUKE WALLER DISCOVERS HOW THE COUNTY DURHAM BAND FUSE

DIFFICULT SUBJECT MATTER WITH VIBRANT MOODS

ON THEIR LATEST EP

From start to finish, you can hear the heritage which fostered Vice Killer’s upcoming EP. Keep On Fighting On is steeped in the legacy of County Durham’s striking miners – a history which continues to stir painful memories and still affect the lives of many today. But it is also a history which is testament to the resilient power of community spirit. These two sides shine through on Vice Killer’s first-class sophomore release: bright, optimistic and vibrant moods act in tandem with – not in spite of – often bitter subject matters.

“Bands like The Clash and Redskins have had a massive influence,” says singer, rhythm guitarist and songwriter Thomas Low Gilling. “Their songs were often written with very strong subjects such as war, poverty and racism – but musically are very upbeat.” This artistic influence is clearest on title track Keep On Fighting On and leading single Marlene’s In Trouble. Whilst the former, in all its jangly exuberance, explicitly concerns headstrong opposition to Thatcher’s government – especially in and around the band’s native Peterlee – Marlene’s In Trouble relates the tale of a girl struggling with addiction. “I always people watch and wonder what is going on in someone’s life,” says Thomas. “But you never know what people are going through – this song was lyrically about that. Again, it’s quite upbeat, and bands like The Velvet Underground would tackle similar topics, but their songs wouldn’t give that away musically.”

A fantastic display of Thomas’ charismatic voice, Marlene’s In Trouble adopts a classic feel, featuring sprightly solos by guitarist James Langan – almost conceivably the work of George Harrison reincarnate. Alongside the song is a music video with an appropriately vintage air, shot at a local show and around Tynemouth. However, accompanying second single The Dark Side Of The Railway (Sunny), is a more involved video. From chip shops to Doc Marten dancing, it’s a jubilant companion to

I ALWAYS PEOPLE WATCH AND WONDER WHAT IS GOING ON IN SOMEONE’S LIFE. BUT YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT PEOPLE ARE GOING THROUGH

the tale of a railway worker visiting his girlfriend every night. “I wanted to recreate a couple making their way to a Northern Soul night, and it was shot at the Easington Welfare Hall, which is the hub for our area.”

Exemplified by the EP’s heavier closing track, crowd favourite Naples Street, Vice Killer maintain an exceptional standard of performance. “We are a better live band now from when we recorded the first EP; we used to record using a click track which would lose the energy of the song,” says Thomas. “Our recording process is all live now, and then we’d add guitar tracks over the top. So, there are some subtle mistakes on the EP, but I think it has so much more character and I hope it resonates with the listener.”

Since their formation three years ago between former schoolmates Thomas and James – alongside James’ brother Jack (bass) and Lewis Muir (drums) – their first shows and debut EP Alone, In This World in the summer of 2021, Vice Killer have steadily worked towards where they are now. Keep On Fighting On is a formidable successor – and there is more on the way.

“We recorded our debut album last year, and then the EP was a last-minute recording session in the December… The album is the same direction with similar messages and stays with a certain concept throughout. We can’t wait to finally release it.” Vice Killer release Keep On Fighting On on 2nd May. The band play A Stone’s Throw festival on Saturday 25th May. www.linktr.ee/vicekiller

JODIE NICHOLSON

TOMMY ROBERTSON

TALKS TO THE TEESSIDE SONGWRITER ABOUT THE CHALLENGES AND SUCCESSES AROUND HER NEW ALBUM

“Safe Hands is, ultimately, an album centred around self-trust and is a personal reminder to believe in myself more,” states Jodie Nicholson, whose rise in the region’s alt. pop scene has garnered much acclaim, particularly following the self-release of her debut album, Golden Hour, in 2019. Referring to her new project, Safe Hands reflects the ethos she adopted during its creation: “The concept of being in ‘safe hands’ really spurred me on throughout the process and became my holistic outlook on the whole project, so it felt very fitting for the album’s title.” This personal approach is echoed through the production and writing credits, with Nicholson crafting the project on her own. I was curious to know how Jodie approached this sense of solidarity in her craft. “I don’t think I anticipated how challenging it would be, physically and mentally, to go in head-first and throw myself in the deep end like that, but it’s very rewarding listening now knowing I actually did it and the music’s being received so well. To me, creating this album was really about carving my name as a producer, challenging myself in the way I record my own music, and keeping as much of the album’s creation rooted in the North East.”

It’s clear Nicholson isn’t afraid of hard graft, but with the achievement of new skills comes additional pressures. “Writing for this album was the first time I’ve really felt pressure to write ‘good’ music and prove that I was progressing as an artist, and not because other people were telling me to, it was totally self-inflicted.” Speaking on her changing relationship with creating music following the release of her debut, it’s clear that creating a follow-up to such a successful era is accompanied with some baggage. “Once you have music out, there’s always something to compare new releases to. There was quite a prolonged period where I didn’t write, because all the far-ahead planning that comes with releasing music, particularly an album, and those inner monologues and pressures we put on ourselves as artists can make it quite an isolating, overwhelming

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THE CONCEPT OF BEING IN ‘SAFE HANDS’ REALLY SPURRED ME ON THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS AND BECAME MY HOLISTIC OUTLOOK ON THE WHOLE PROJECT

experience.”

The resulting release is produced to lean heavily into themes of escapism and nostalgia, touched by soft synth tones and atmospheric instrumentation to support the wistful notes of the music. Inspired by musicians like Matt Corby, Lucy Rose and Tori Amos, Jodie notes: “They’re artists where I’ve maybe followed every release and particular songs or albums remind me of a chapter in my life, where I was, what I was doing then. I can listen to them with that teenage excitement and it’s a feeling I’m definitely trying to capture more in the way I consume and create music now. I think taking the reins with production really helped me unlock that feeling within my own music.” Heading to Gateshead’s Glasshouse to perform the album on Saturday 18th May, she reveals: “The Glasshouse have played a huge part in my development as an artist in recent years, and much of this album came together at the Summer Studios residency last August. There’s something really magical about playing new music live for the first time and seeing what resonates with people; quite often, the song you least expect will take on a whole new meaning in a live setting and connect with people in a way you never imagined. The power of music is a really beautiful thing! Performing Safe Hands there for the first time with the band will be such a full-circle moment.”

Jodie Nicholson releases Safe Hands on 10th May. She performs at The Glasshouse, Gateshead on Saturday 18th May. www.jodienicholsonmusic.com

THE BOUNDS

LAURA DOYLE TALKS TO NORTHUMBRIAN WRITER STEWART PRINGLE ABOUT HIS DARK TALE OF RURAL DIVIDES, EXTREME VILLAGE SPORTS AND A TUMULTUOUS UPHEAVAL IN THE HEAVENS ABOVE...

The year is 1553, the true Golden Age of English football. It’s the Allen Valley Whitsun Game, and men will die today. The introduction to The Bounds throws up more questions than you’ll ever get answered – unless you go to experience it yourself. This is Northumberland writer Stewart Pringle’s first production with Live Theatre, and he’s keeping his cards well close to his chest.

“I’m trying not to give too much away, because I think one of the fun things about this play should be how it keeps shifting and changing, and how the audience are thrown into the same dark, terrifying night as the characters. It’s certainly true that the Allen Valley’s Game that Percy and Rowan are playing is really only the start of a great and tumultuous unravelling of their lives. The earth is shifting beneath their feet, and in the heavens above them too…”

Pringle’s interest in flash points – “moments in history in which everything changes, irrevocably and forever, but you can only ever see them in the rear view mirror, when the flow of time and history begins to fall into a pattern” – has fed the creation of The Bounds: part football, part history, part comedy, blended to become more than a sum of its parts.

“I knew very little about football when I started writing this, and still don’t know a huge amount. Football in the 16th Century wasn’t much like the modern day game at all, and to be honest we don’t know huge amounts about it. The game you see in The Bounds is a composite of ancient Whitsuntide games and the modern sport. It’s the pies, the chants, the scarfs from the modern game alongside the days-long mud-splattered ultraviolence from the Tudors.”

Stewart Pringle has put his heart and soul into the construction of this play – and it was an intensely personal venture from the very beginning. “It had to be set in Allendale, where I grew up. This is a story forged from that landscape; the fells and bogs that fringe the Allen Valleys, that wild countryside, local weirdness

STAGE

IT’S A NORTHUMBRIAN STORY. IT’S A LOVE LETTER, OF SORTS. JUST A PRETTY DARK AND STRANGE ONE

and local pride. It’s a Northumbrian story. It’s a love letter, of sorts. Just a pretty dark and strange one.”

Live Theatre pride themselves on producing new shows from new talent, making it the perfect first home for The Bounds before it’s taken on to a London run at the Royal Court Theatre this summer. “It’s a total dream to be making this at Live, and with artists of such an incredibly high calibre. [Artistic Director/Join CEO] Jack McNamara is an incredible artist and human, who is making that place into the most incredible, diverse, political powerhouse. He’s light years ahead of us all in ambition, drive, compassion and sense. His Royal Court is going to blow everyone away.“

With its roots firmly in the North East, it’s fitting that The Bounds features a largely North Eastern cast. “Authenticity is always important, but I’ve got to say this has all been part of Jack’s vision for the show. He said, ‘This is a Northern show, it has to be made with Northern artists’. And he’s so right. I’m sure we could find some amazing actors in London with ‘Accents: Geordie’ on their resume, but that’s not the same as proper North East talent. I know what that incredible audience is like in Live – they’re canny as all hell, they can smell what feels real and what feels like an act. Then we get to take these incredible creatives down to the flippin’ Court! I just hope Sloane Square’s ready for them…”

The Bounds is performed at Live Theatre, Newcastle from Thursday 16th May-Saturday 8th June. www.live.org.uk

THE LATE SHOWS

IF YOU LIKE…

UNIQUE ART

British-South Korean paper artist Yvette Ja’s Moon Light Guide Night installation showcases the artist’s stunning skills of map folding, origami, paper cutting and book binding at The Find in the Ouseburn; resident artist Dan McBean exhibits his limited edition fine art prints in aid of Music v Cancer at Flea Circus; puppeteer Marc Parrett’s The Ballad of the Underwater Daughter comes to life with puppets, machines and an exhibition at Newcastle Arts Centre; Castle Fine Art gallery discovers the artwork of comedian Billy Connolly; and enjoy art after dark, as visitors to Hancock Gallery are invited to win treasure and crack secret codes.

SOCIAL COMMENTARY

Design Feminisms Research Group create a massive mixed media manifesto using clay, fabric and photographs at Northumbria University’s School of Design; ROOTED promises an evening of connection, community and climate hope at The Biscuit Factory, with a life-sized book shop made of an eco material found in fungus; Just Building Bridges at 36 Lime Street is a new photography exhibition by Newcastle-based sanctuary seekers, tackling subjects of social and climate justice; African Lives In Northern England invite visitors on a short guided walk to discover the lives of Africans in the city, including Ida B. Wells, Muhammad Ali, Ira Aldridge and Martin Luther King Jr.

EVENTS

WORDS: CLAIRE DUPREE

Newcastle and Gateshead’s free late night culture crawl returns on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th May, with a vast array of creative and cultural activities to engage with.

In addition to the usual eclectic programme, there are also five brand new artist commissions supported by Creative Central NCL, each inspired by their location. Digital artists Multiminded and illustrator Deborah Snell animate the Grainger Market with clever projection mapping; there’s micro poetry performances from Dearest Haley and video projection and immersive soundscapes from Tim Dalling, Jeremy Bradfield and Faye MacCalman at Blackfriars; artist Theresa Poulton is inspired by African American dancer Pearl Primus’ powerful protest dances to produce a large-scale, text-based, polychromatic painting at Dance City; and multimedia artist Emma Tominey’s interactive augmented reality art trail reveals The Common Room in a completely new light.

No matter how you like your fancy tickled, there’s something for you. Here’s a few suggestions… www.thelateshows.org.uk

MAKING STUFF

Make your own linocut or drypoint print with The Biscuit Tin Print Club at the Ouseburn studio; there’s more printmaking at Incubate, who will showcase modern techniques including laser projection and electric metal etching; make your own coaster with Maling Pottery, inspired by the award-winning tiled wall at Hoult’s Yard; create a handmade Sew Peace heart and discover how to tackle textile waste at Gateshead’s Green Heart Collective; have a go at zine making during a drop-in workshop at Mosaic Tap; learn about urban architecture, make a marble run with cabinet of curiosity or try block printing at Farrell Centre.

A BIT OF EVERYTHING

There’s improvised music, life drawing, print making and artists’ studios to explore at Cobalt; enjoy Mexican-themed music, food and drinks plus eco-minded participatory arts workshops at Ouseburn Farm; at Gateshead Library create a leaf collage or print work with Ali Wilkes, personalise a tree-themed air freshener, enjoy an exhibition on nature and birdsong by Mike Collier, plus live music and drinks from the bar; there’s medieval revelry, fine ale, music and storytelling at Newcastle Castle; dance the night away at Newcastle City Library’s silent disco, enjoy board games and creative activities or check out Hazel Plater’s Toon Fans United exhibition.

Pearl Primus performing (c) BaronÔÇöHulton Archive, Getty Images

Moon Light Guide Night

ELAINE PALMER

DAVID SAUNDERS TALKS TO THE NORTH EAST SONGWRITER ABOUT FINDING INSPIRATION IN THE LANDSCAPES AND STORYTELLERS OF AMERICA ON HER NEW ALBUM

Elaine Palmer is a country-inspired artist whose background of being raised in a secluded, rural setting is very similar to that of many great Americana songsmiths and storytellers and, like it did with them, ignited her creative spark.

”I grew up in a small village on the North Yorkshire Moors which is quite isolated and we would get shut off in the winters with snow, no electricity. You become very connected to the seasons and nature. We were free to explore outside as children, swimming in the river, working on the farm. It allowed us to develop alongside nature at our own pace. The bleak beauty of the Moors becomes part of you and never really leaves.”

The Stateside dynamic of Elaine’s music came from family ties and the music she listened to growing up, as she goes on to explain: “I was really into great songwriters and voices from the beginning. Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen for their incredible lyrics; Nina Simone, Janice Joplin, Neil Young, Nick Drake and Jeff Buckley for their unique, expressive voices. I have family who live in Arizona and have spent my life travelling back and forward, meeting musicians, performing and listening to country music there.”

Taking the space and awe of childhood and filtering it through the styles of America’s great songwriters, Elaine began writing and performing from the age of 15. She has since gone on to establish herself as one of the region’s finest performers, releasing several solo albums and touring the UK extensively, sharing stages with the likes of KT Tunstall, Patty Griffin, Courtney Marie Andrews and Paolo Nutini along the way. Her latest eight-track release is entitled Half Moon Rising and showcases Elaine’s heartfelt, husky vocals, containing notes of Stevie Nicks, Chrissie Hynde and Bonnie Tyler, as well as a range of warm country sounds, from the windswept ballad feels of A Love Like That to the soft roadhouse rock of Let Me Fall and the Cohen-esque songcraft of final track The Last Dance.

I WAS REALLY INTO GREAT SONGWRITERS AND VOICES FROM THE BEGINNING

It’s a release that sees Elaine doing what she does so effectively, drawing from both sides of the Atlantic. For the recording, she worked alongside producer and engineer Mike Butler (Norah Jones, Ray LaMontagne, Phoebe Bridgers and The Pretenders) at Half Moon Lodge up in the San Diego hills, an experience that she explains resonates throughout the recording. “I’ve been to San Diego many times but the lodge was out of the city in the hills so we had that beautiful space in the trees. I explored as much as possible while I was there too, played a show in Encinitas and met more amazing musicians, drove out into the desert with some incredible people to Jacumba Springs. It all shapes the record. You can hear their lives in the songs.”

Bringing things back closer to home, Half Moon Rising will be released via North East music companies (and trusted collaborators), Butterfly Effect and Wipe Out Publishing, something that Elaine is thrilled to be doing. “John Esplen from Wipe Out has been there throughout my entire career as a mentor and a friend. I released my last album on Butterfly Effect which was the first album I’d put out on vinyl. Stephen who owns the label is just a massive music enthusiast and a genuine person. I love working with independent companies where we are all singing from the same song sheet!”

Half Moon Rising is released 17th May. Elaine will be performing at The Waiting Room, Eaglescliffe on Sunday 12th May and The Globe, Newcastle on Friday 17th May. www.elaine-palmer.com

A STONE’S THROW

IF YOU LIKE…

HEADLINE ACTS

Friday 24th will see the official opening of the festival at The Exchange 1856 with a special performance from post-punk revivalists White Lies, the cult indie rock band have courted considerable acclaim for their explosive sound. The top spots on Saturday will include performances from the likes of indie group Sundara Karma, who have been praised for their nostalgic and anthemic guitar rock; Edinburgh’s Vistas, whose hook-filled melodic rock is a cinematic delight; Essex outfit Bilk bring their highly acclaimed fusion of angst-fuelled indie, rap and heaviness to the festival; and Dutch artist Pip Blom and her band present guitar-driven anthems and synthy delights.

TOURING TALENT

Expect to see many of these acts on the festival circuit this year. Another Sky’s progressive and anthemic guitar-fuelled sound has earned them legions of fans; Australian indie rockers Teenage Dads fuse psych pop into their sound; there’s punky pop vibes courtesy of sounds mint; bass supremo Ben Ellis has shared the stage with the likes of Iggy Pop and Marc Almond; groove-infused trio Alien Chicks explore everything from jazz and rap to bossa nova and math rock; plus charismatic rock ‘n’ rollers Car Boot Sale; the self-described “post-something” Cucamaras; surfy indie act Dutch Criminal Record; exciting indie punks Lip Filler; and indie folk duo Quiet Houses.

MUSIC

WORDS: CLAIRE DUPREE

Multi-venue festival A Stone’s Throw are ramping up proceedings for their second year, with a considerable expansion, big-name headliners and an admirable ethos of championing local and touring acts. Taking place on Saturday 25th May (with an opening show the night before featuring indie specialists White Lies), the festival will see nine venues across Tynemouth and North Shields host a huge variety of live music, and there’s even an open-topped bus to take you in between venues!

“We definitely feel like we’ve been able to curate a beefier line-up this time around.” Says festival founder Anthony Thompson. “Our long-term ambition is for the event to be focused around the country’s next gen of touring talent; we want future superstars to have passed through North Tyneside by performing at A Stone’s Throw, that’s something I think we’ve delivered this time around.”

Here, we pick out a few shining stars from the extensive line-up. www.astonesthrowfestival.co.uk

EXCITING UP AND COMERS

Shining a light on the next big thing is the festival’s mantra, and the line-up is peppered with artists that will soon be filling venues much bigger than these. At the top of our recommendations list is DIY pop newcomer Downtown Kayoto, whose sound blends Britpop, garage, hip-hop and pop to beguiling effect. Also worth checking out are jazz/funk/punk fusion sextet Opus Kink; the soulful and diverse sounds of Birmingham-based Sipho.; anthemic angsty rockers Gen And The Degenerates; young prodigy mustbejohn, who draws influences from house, garage and rap; and garage/ dream pop band Trunk.

LOCAL GEMS

Local artists who are likely to have top billings include sophisticated anti-pop artist Ruth Lyon; captivating Teesside musician Finn Forster; alt. indie pop band Cat Ryan; and cheeky high energy quartet The Peevie Wonders. We also tip big things for the likes of enigmatic alt. folk rock act The Early Purple; pop-tastic twins Twayn; Polish-born Teesside-bred rapper Eyeconic; introspective indie pop artist Cosial; alt. folk rock musician Callum Pitt; ukulele maestro and masterful songwriter Borrelle; Newcastle rockers Crux; the angular punk sounds of Swine Tax; and reggae rock hybrid Rum Jungle.

White Lies

Pip Blom by Sanja Marusic

SUNDERLAND SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

LENA MOSS CHATS WITH FESTIVAL DIRECTOR CHRIS J. ALLAN ABOUT THIS YEAR’S

Sunderland Shorts Film Festival is gearing up for its ninth edition, taking place from Wednesday 8th -Sunday 12th May. Festival director Chris J. Allan talks about the journey of the festival so far and how it’s grown. “The festival started back in 2015 as part of Sunderland’s partnership with Washington DC and has since grown into an event that every year has strived to bring the best new short films to our audiences here in the North East. As part of that journey, we are proud to have become a BIFA Qualifying Film Festival. We’re passionate about showcasing the best films from across the country and around the world, whilst also shining the spotlight on local filmmaking talent.”

The festival consists of five days of cinematic celebration across Sunderland city centre. Chris outlines what to expect across the week. “Our opening night takes place at The Fire Station where we have a fantastic showcase of shorts including star performances from Mark Rylance and Joanna Lumley, as well as local BAFTA nominated comedy Where It Ends. On Thursday we’re at the historic 17Nineteen, with a live gig from Amateur Ornithologist followed by a screening of music videos. For the rest of the week we head to The Royalty Theatre, with a great range of workshops and screenings, mostly split by genre and spanning horror, animation, sci-fi, documentary, comedy (including live stand-up from Felt Nowt) and more. We close out on Sunday with our final event which is our North East Showcase championing work from local creatives.” The programme features a host of films produced in the North

IT’S SO REWARDING BEING PART OF THE EVERGROWING FILM AND TELEVISION COMMUNITY HERE IN THE NORTH EAST

CELEBRATION OF SHORT FILMS

East by local talent. Chris explains why it’s so valuable to support regional filmmaking. “As well as our North East Showcase event, we’ve got regional talent represented in pretty much all categories and in all genres across the week. It’s so rewarding being part of the ever-growing film and television community here in the North East – particularly with the developments happening within Sunderland right now. Having this opportunity to champion local filmmakers on the big screen is more important than ever, especially in addition to Q&As, masterclasses, workshops and networking opportunities for those looking to get into and develop in the industry.”

All submissions for the festival go through a reviewing process, resulting in an exciting and varied selection of films for festival audiences to enjoy. Chris elaborates on what the Sunderland Shorts team look for in a submission. “Every film we show at the festival goes through a reviewing process where our team judge all submissions on criteria including direction, writing, cinematography, originality and creativity. Even though we enjoy sharing films with recognisable stars and industry accolades, we’re equally keen on showing first time and low budget filmmaking too. A good story from a creative voice is always the driving factor for us.”

Explore the full, diverse line-up on the Sunderland Shorts website. “There really is something for all film fans and those curious to learn more.” Says Chris. “If you haven’t been to a short film festival before I’d recommend picking a screening of a favourite genre of yours and giving it a go, you might just discover some new favourites!”

Sunderland Shorts Film Festival takes place at various venues in Sunderland from Wednesday 8th -Sunday 12th May. www.sunderlandshorts.co.uk

L-R, T-B: Mr. Rabbit, Onward Ye Costumed Souls, My Week With Maisy, The Oracle

GEORGINA GALE

KATE RELTON DISCOVERS THE VARIED STYLES AND SOUNDS ON THE FOLK POP SONGWRITER’S DEBUT EP

Just a few months after watching her captivate listeners at an intimate gig in Newcastle, it’s exciting to see Georgina Gale’s career moving into high gear with a debut EP due for release on 10th May.

“It’s been a great year, I met so many amazing people. Meeting and working with producer Tony Brown has been really cool, it feels great to work with someone who totally gets your sound and ideas.” She enthuses.

Signed by North East label Sapien Records, Gale’s new EP Did You Run? marks the start of her work with a full band. “Meeting and working with a band has definitely been a highlight. They’re awesome people, playing with them is such a good feeling and gives me so much motivation.”

Did You Run? is a six-track collection of styles, influences and sounds, showcasing Gale’s emotive blend of indie, folk pop and Americana. Fans are already clamouring for more after the release of lead track Yellow Line, a gut-punch of a song that’s everything you want to sing along to when life knocks you off your feet. Whether you’re feeling vulnerable and delicate, or you want something to soundtrack a little righteous post-break up anger, Did You Run? has a track for you.

“The songs on the EP do range in genre influences, my inspiration comes from a lot of different sounds,” says Gale. “4 In The Afternoon is a fairly big bandy indie/alt./rock song which was probably my favourite to create.”

Growing up in Cumbria, Gale is now based in Newcastle and has found a fierce network of support and encouragement for her music in the North East. “After living here for almost two years, I have noticed a real support and thriving energy from female artists. They seem to be doing so well and it feels like there is a real support from the Newcastle music scene and community.”

MUSIC

DID YOU RUN? SHOWCASES GALE’S EMOTIVE BLEND OF INDIE, FOLK POP AND AMERICANA

A mark of her soaring popularity, Gale’s EP launch is booked at one of her favourite Newcastle venues. “I am so excited for my EP launch at Zerox. If you know me, you know I’m always convincing my mates to go there on a night out or to watch the bands, so I can’t wait to play there. Also it’s a gig with the full band which I’m always buzzing about!”

After selling out her first headline gig at Mosaic Tap in March, Gale’s irresistible charm and ability to move seamlessly through a range of genres is amassing a fanbase that are sure to follow her wherever she goes. Discovering the live music scene in Cumbria when she turned 18, Gale says she quickly fell in love with being on stage. “I don’t come from a very musical family so any influence growing up came from listening to albums in the car or going to gigs and becoming obsessed with the feeling that being around live music gave me.”

Following on from the EP launch and a festival appearance at A Stone’s Throw Festival on Saturday 25th May, it feels like Gale is on the cusp of a breakthrough. “My dream venue would be Glasgow O2 Academy. I know that sounds a bit random but it’s the first venue I went to to see a band. My Dad always said it would be a cool full circle kind of moment if I was to play there!”

Georgina Gale releases Did You Run? On 10th May. She performs at Zerox, Newcastle on Saturday 18th May and A Stone’s Throw Festival on Saturday 25th May. www.georginagale.com

Who’s

JOANNE COATES

LENA MOSS TALKS TO THE NORTH EAST-BASED VISUAL ARTIST ABOUT HER WORK WHICH EXPLORES CLASS ISSUES

FACED BY WOMEN IN RURAL AREAS

Visual artist Joanne Coates brings her new body of work, Middle Of Somewhere, to Baltic where you can experience it for the first time from Saturday 11th May to Sunday 17th November. The work follows on from Joanne’s previous photography series’ Daughters Of The Soil and Lie Of The Land which explore issues faced by women in the countryside, of which class is a central theme. Joanne considers why she chose to revisit these topics. “I wanted to explore the relationship between people and places – but specifically young women, in rural areas. There’s a statistic that states that around 57% of young people have to leave rural areas, and I really wanted to address what the factors that led to this were. I think housing or lack of social housing is certainly one of those reasons, but also a feeling of being trapped in this place with little access to services, other communities and other young people. Currently, access to affordable housing is bad for everyone, whether you’re in a city or in the countryside, and I think this work speaks to those wider issues too.”

Joanne’s work consists predominantly of photography, but Middle Of Somewhere also utilises installation and sound to enhance the experience. She describes what an important role these additions play. “When someone comes into an exhibition, I really want to create that experience of understanding for them. These additions alongside the gentle, intimate, quiet photography bring you into a different space, with little hints that will tell you about the current situation in those places. Using voice recordings and audio allowed me to raise important statistics or issues, whilst not compromising on showing the subjects in an empowered way.”

Joanne elaborates on how topical concerns like climate change and the cost of living crisis are markedly intertwined and significant in this work. “Sometimes when we talk about

I HOPE IT BECOMES CLEAR THAT WHEREVER WE’RE FROM, WE ALL HAVE SOMETHING IN COMMON IN TERMS OF WHAT WE’RE FACING

climate, especially politically, we leave out certain groups –whether that’s people of colour, people who live in rural areas or working class people. However, for movements to progress and for change to happen we need these discussions to be inclusive, particularly of young people whose futures, often in relation to where they can live, are particularly informed by climate change and the cost of living crisis. These conditions are changing the course of what they had planned for their lives.”

The exhibition title plays on phrases often used to describe rural spaces like ‘the middle of nowhere’, or ‘the back of beyond’. Joanne explains her decision to confront that use of language. “I was thinking about the impact these phrases have on our identity, and the sense of worth and pride we feel about those places. What we’re saying when we use these phrases is that those places are unimportant or decentralised. Yet, they’ve always been important throughout the history of land and class politics and, crucially, they’re important because people that live there feel connected to them. I hope that people who come to see this work leave with questions about why these beautiful places are not taken seriously, and with a wider understanding of the challenges that are being encountered there. I hope it becomes clear that wherever we’re from, we all have something in common in terms of what we’re facing.”

Joanne Coates’ Middle Of Somewhere is exhibited at Baltic, Gateshead from Saturday 11th May to Sunday 17th November. www.joannecoates.co.uk

scared? Upper Dales, Middle Of Somewhere, 2023 © Joanne Coates

BEHIND THE MUSIC: STOCK IMAGE

TEESSIDE SYNTH MAESTRO AND ALL-ROUND MAN ABOUT TOWN MIKE ELLIOTT PREPARES TO LAUNCH HIS NEW EP, MODERN LIVING, AT MIDDLESBROUGH’S CAFE ETCH ON FRIDAY 18TH MAY. HERE, HE EXPLAINS THE SOUNDS, INSPIRATIONS AND THOUGHT PROCESSES BEHIND THE TRACKS ON THE RELEASE. WWW.LINKTR.EE/STOCK_IMAGE

WORDS: MIKE ELLIOTT

I always think that by making music that I relate to, other people will hear it and it will relate to their lives as well, but more often than not I find out I’m a weirdo and no one else even thinks about the things I think about, so I’ve probably just created something exposing how strange I am, as I usually do. Either way, I hope you give it a listen and enjoy it.

OVERTURE

ABC open their album The Lexicon of Love with an orchestral overture, so I thought I’d make myself seem really trendy by referencing an album all the kids are listening to. It’ll probably put most people off with its pretentiousness, but I’ve never tried to appeal to the masses, as you can probably tell by the size of the venues I play and my streaming income. £1.80 so far.

MODERN LIVING

I used to do daft things when I was drunk, and people would just laugh it off, but as the years go by, the laughter is dying. It’s difficult because I still think I’m really funny, but there’s nothing sadder than a man in a pub laughing to himself. Instead of drinking, I think it might be time to start spending my weekends posting pictures of myself on walks like everyone else seems to be doing these days.

WHAT’S MY NAME

Remember how exciting it is when you’re young and get your first romantic partner? At 32 years old, it’s just a slog of trying to fit your entire personality into a few pictures of yourself and a brief bio about how you like/dislike pineapple on pizza and that you love your dog or whatever. I went on a few dates with a girl last year, and eventually she said she didn’t know what she wanted. She was even older than me, so I hope she makes up her mind soon, or she’s gonna end up in a classic Miss Havisham situation. (I am aware she was just saying it to be nice, but that’s not as compelling for song lyrics.)

5 4 ME

There was talk about a four-day working week a few years ago, but it all seems to have quieted down now. I hope the music takes off because it’s a grim prospect, selling my life away to a company so that the boss can go and buy his third house. I’ll get a message from my mates who don’t work when I’ve woken up on a Monday asking what I’m up to, and they’ll tell me they’ve been at a party all night. The trade-off to that, I was told, was that because I work full-time, I can afford holidays and nice things, but because of the cost of living crisis I don’t even get that. All through my childhood I knew school was a waste of time, and I was right! Can’t believe they got me to believe it wasn’t as I got older.

LISTINGS

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

THURSDAY 2ND MAY

FOLKISH EXPLOSION

Folk rock band Driven Serious head up a line-up which also includes Ramble Gamble, Lost Lot and Ruby Kelly // The Cluny 2, Newcastle

KATHRYN WILLIAMS & WITHERED HAND

The duo celebrate the release of their recent collaborative album // Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle

LEWIS BUXTON

An average guy’s guide to making new friends, with award-winning poet and performer Lewis Buxton // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

RAISING ROMULUS

Midwest emo outfit, plus support from Blame Yourself and Falchion // The Green Room, Stockton

TISH

Screening of the lovingly realised documentary about photographer Tish Murtha. The event includes a Q&A with her daughter, Ella // The Common Room, Newcastle

FRIDAY 3RD MAY

KELLY EDGAR

Get ready for a comedic rollercoaster with Kelly Edgar’s stand-up extravaganza, I Don’t Think You’re Ready For This, Kelly, in which she explores the perplexing duality of being both juvenile and past it all at once // Alphabetti Theatre, Newcastle

ROSALIE CUNNINGHAM

The first of two dates in the region (the other is at Stockton’s Georgian Theatre the following day) for the prog rock artist, supported in Newcastle by Druidess and in Stockton by Stolen Dead Music and Rudi Betamax // The Cluny 2, Newcastle

SWINDLED

The indie five-piece play a special stripped-back set to promote their new acoustic EP, Leave The Big Light On // The Ship Isis, Sunderland

TOM GRENNAN

The In The Park Festival welcomes Platinum-selling singer-songwriter Tom Grennan to the first day of the family friendly festival, which also sees a performance from Brooke Combe // Leazes Park, Newcastle

SATURDAY 4TH MAY

GRAYWAVE

Dreamy shoegaze with powerful vocals // Head of Steam, Newcastle

HILARITY BITES COMEDY CLUB

Featuring Michael Fabbri, Alfie Joey, Mad Ron and Andy Fury // Forum Music Centre, Darlington

MARJOLEIN ROBERTSON

A surreal hour of stand-up // The Stand, Newcastle

OCEANS OF KINDNESS

An exploration of the cumulative power of words, creativity and kindness sparked by childrens’ imagination. Runs until 13th June // Shieldfield Art Works, Newcastle

RODDY WOOMBLE & ALMOST NOTHING

The Idlewild frontman’s new project // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

QUEER IN THE CITY

Exploring Newcastle’s LGBTQIA+ heritage through archiving and zine-making, centering the community’s voices and stories to ensure experiences are represented for years to come // Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle

SUNDAY 5TH MAY

RAG’N’BONE MAN

The second day of celebrations of the family friendly In The Park Festival sees multi-award winning artist Rag’n’Bone Man take the headline spot, alongside 5onger, Red Rum Club and Liam Fender // Leazes Park, Newcastle

TUESDAY 7TH MAY

MUCH ADO ABOUT DYING

Hosted by Dr Kathryn Mannix, the film’s director Simon Chambers will be on hand for a special Q&A to discuss the irreverent movie about looking after his madcap gay actor uncle whose life starts to mirror King Lear. Also screening at Star & Shadow Cinema on Thursday 16th // Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle

WEDNESDAY 8TH MAY

WILLY MASON

Transcendent songwriter whose songs brim with conviction and passion // The Cluny, Newcastle

THURSDAY 9TH MAY

LIVE & LOCAL

Multi-genre night featuring The Keemons, The Last of the Fallen Angels and No Ripcord // Forum Music Centre, Darlington

TRINITY FOLK CLUB

A staple event on the North East’s folk scene, run by Bill Elliott and Ken Tonge, singers/musicians welcome. 1pm-4pm // Seventeen Nineteen, Sunderland

FRIDAY 10TH MAY

CLUB PARADISE

The North East indie rock outfit strip back their synth-laden 80’s-esque anthems, performing their music as never heard before. Support from Ice Road Trucker and Flynt // Alphabetti Theatre, Newcastle

CITRUS

Zesty Newcastle-based indie folk rock band launch their new EP. Support from Steff Mundi // Head of Steam, Newcastle

THE ROOM – WITH GREG SESTERO LIVE! Interactive screening and live commentary of the infamous cult classic, The Room. Also screening on Saturday 11th // Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle

TURNER: ART, INDUSTRY & NOSTALGIA

The exhibition includes over 20 works by Turner and explores the rise of steam power and industry in Britain. Runs until 7th September // Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle

SATURDAY 11TH MAY

FUNDRAISER FOR GAZA

A night of music and solidarity with proceeds going towards Gaza Aid Direct, and featuring performances from Multilingual Choir, Late Girl, Ceitidh Mac and DJ Omar // Star & Shadow Cinema, Newcastle

THE VOLUNTEARS

Alt. rock five-piece, supported by Checkmate and Breakaway NE // The Globe, Newcastle

WE TIBETANS

Much-loved Teesside alt. rock four-piece // The Georgian Theatre, Stockton

SUNDAY 12TH MAY

FRESH FROM THE FRINGE

Two of the most critically-acclaimed shows of last year’s Edinburgh Fringe, including Krystal’s debut stand-up show which finds the humour in escaping a house-fire, death, tragedy and mental illness, and Next Up Biggest Prize In Comedy award-winner Sian Davies // The Stand, Newcastle

STAR & SHADOW CINEMA MARKET

Bric-a-brac, arts, crafts, second hand clothes, books, collectibles, household items and a treasure trove of bounty to discover! 11am-3pm // Star & Shadow Cinema, Newcastle

FEATURED //

VHS Diaries

A rare public screening of a deeply personal documentary in which filmmaker Niyaz Saghari explores how the banning of video tapes in Iran in the 1980s led to the development of a remarkable underground subculture of illegal tape trading. Followed by a Zoom Q&A with the filmmaker // Star & Shadow Cinema, Newcastle

MONDAY 13TH MAY

ROTTEN SOUND

Ferocious approach to death metal and grindcore. Support from Escuela Grind // Head of Steam, Newcastle

TUESDAY 14TH MAY

BOB LOG III

One-man crown prince of punk blues, supported by Pink Poison and Thee Gatesheadcoats // The Cluny, Newcastle

FRIDAY 17TH MAY

LIAM FENDER & THE VOICES OF VIRTUE GOSPEL CHOIR

An exciting collaboration combining Liam’s striking melodies and the powerful voices of gospel music // Boiler Shop, Newcastle

LITTLE COMETS

North East rock royalty // Pop Recs Ltd., Sunderland

NORTH EAST HEROES

Curated by best-selling local author LJ Ross, this collection of photographs by Donna-Lisa Healy features real-life heroes who represent the unique spirit and heart of the North East. Runs until 23rd June // Biscuit Factory, Newcastle

SEANN WALSH

Observational comic // Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle

SATURDAY 18TH MAY

MICHELLE BRASIER

Reform is a cautionary tale of an online scam and the urge to empathise with, understand and become the emergency contacts of those who have done us wrong // The Stand, Newcastle

SUNDAY 19TH MAY

MINAMI DEUTSCH

Kosmiche band from Tokyo, supported by Karkara // Star & Shadow Cinema, Newcastle

TUESDAY 21ST MAY

CUPID

A play about love, self acceptance and what Valentine’s Day is for or can be. Also on Wednesday 22nd // ARC, Stockton

WEDNESDAY 22ND MAY

NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY BA FINE ART DEGREE SHOW

The culmination of three years of student-artist learning on Northumbria’s BA (Hons) Fine Art degree. Runs until 26th May // Baltic, Gateshead

DARSOMBRA

Trans-apocalyptic galaxy rock band, supported by Stinking Lizaveta and Burnt House // The Lubber Fiend, Newcastle

FRIDAY 24TH MAY

BOO HEWARDINE

Folk pop songwriter // The Greenhouse, Tynemouth

DEAN MCPHEE

Transcendent psych-fuelled guitarist // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

JOIN THE DIN

International ensemble that embodies the vibrant and exploratory nature of the contemporary UK jazz scene // Cobalt Studios, Newcastle

VISTAS

Part of a small series of intimate shows, the Scottish indie rockers play a festival warm-up ahead of their Live At Leeds appearance // Independent, Sunderland

SATURDAY 25TH MAY

CATHERINE BOHART

Hilariously twisted second come of age saga // The Stand, Newcastle

SUNDAY 26TH MAY

FLEA, HANDMADE AND VINYL MARKET

Sister Shack present a market featuring twenty local traders selling an array of pre-loved and handmade items // Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle

THURSDAY 30TH MAY

MARQELECTRONICA

Deep house and electro pop artist, supported by Stock Image, Buzzilla and Sam Thomas // The Globe, Newcastle

FEATURED // The Zombies

The iconic rock band celebrate their 60 Years on Tape tour. Expect performances spanning their famous 1965 hit She’s Not There to tracks from 2023’s Different Game album // Playhouse Whitley Bay

FRIDAY 31ST MAY

ALISTAIR JAMES

Heartfelt songwriter, supported by Jay Moussa-Mann and Seventh Heaven // Cafe Etch, Middlesbrough

DEAD GIRLS RISING

Furious coming-of-age punk cabaret show about surviving a violent patriarchy. Also on Saturday 1st June // Northern Stage, Newcastle

IMPROV CLUB

Improv lovers, seasoned performers and curious newbies are welcomed into a night of laughter, drama and spontaneity // The Cumberland Arms, Newcastle

MURASAKI DUO

Part of the Newcastle Piano Festival, featuring the internationally renowned Murasaki Duo // Jesmond United Reformed Church, Newcastle

By Stewart Pringle

REVIEWS

THUNDERCAT @ O2 CITY HALL, NEWCASTLE (29.03.24)

Words: Ikenna Offor

Flanked by a decidedly spartan two-piece, Thundercat strides onstage flaunting a hefty Ibanez six-string, its lengthy neck extending well beyond his diminutive frame. Gloriously draped in his signature Akatsuki trench, the double Grammy-winning polymath born Stephen Bruner might cut an ostensibly parodic figure to the causal punter, but adepts know that this cartoonish theatricality belies a Jedi-esque prowess on the bass.

Things get off to a spacey start, courtesy of the lonesome cosmic drift of Lost in Space/Great Scott, its anomalous harmonies gently waltzing underneath Bruner’s wistful falsetto. There’s an overtly palpable chemistry between the trio, more akin to family than just bandmates –a Phish-level interplay that’s most keenly felt during tonight’s many improvisational bursts.

Musical chops aside, a substantial nub of Bruner’s zany charm lies in his flair for anecdotal digressions – most notably, Dragon Ball Durag is introed via a sincere shoutout to late great manga titan Akira Toriyama, whilst elsewhere, Tokyo’s synth funk bounce triggers a geekout on soul legend Leon Ware.

The night closes with the evergreen smash that is Them Changes. Its mercurial mid-70s Stevie Wonder vibes and that iconic opening sample aside, Bruner pitches this heartbreak anthem so perfectly, you’d be forgiven for thinking its opening line was part of the soul canon – a resplendent finale that falls just shy of levelling the place entirely with the utter heft of its swamp-plunging bassline.

An indubitably astounding experience in every fathomable category, and then some. The laws of chance suggest that something should’ve gone wrong. Not here.

SHOVEL DANCE COLLECTIVE, DAWN TERRY @ THE LUBBER FIEND, NEWCASTLE (12.04.24)

Words: Lee Fisher

Dawn Terry – performing for the first time in the guise of Zarya –preceded her set by paying tribute to a very recently lost friend, adding an incredible poignancy to a performance that was always going to be heavy with melancholy. Performing in near darkness, with just a guitar and mixing desk, Terry told us stories of space exploration and vast voids, full of loneliness, loss and deep space, more Solaris than Star

Wars, picking out simple, repetitive figures on the guitar throughout above the thrum of the ship’s engines. Simple and powerful.

As Shovel Dance Collective somehow squeezed onto the Lubber Fiend stage – nine musicians, often with more than one instrument (from hammered dulcimer to harp, trombone to banjo) – I was reminded once again that although the discourse around their music can be quite academic and earnest (which isn’t to say this stuff – the decolonising and queering of traditional folk – isn’t vital), the music itself is raw and wild and absolutely rousing. Drawing from traditional music across the UK and beyond, vocals and instruments were swapped, songs were explained, voices raised in anger and solidarity, sadness and joy. This is powerful medicine, friends, and a perfect example of why folk music is so absolutely vital. They finished with a glorious a capella take on Hanging Johnny, arranged across the front of the stage with the good people of the Lubber bellowing along and it was balm for our very souls.

OBJECTIONS, E’SPANIEL, BOY LATEX @ STAR & SHADOW CINEMA, NEWCASTLE (28.03.24)

Words: Lee Fisher

The magnificent members of Unit Ama are back in the gig promotion game, using their collective Rolodex (ask your nan) to call on some of the UK’s best underground acts. Like Boy Latex, who supported UA recently but bring a very different energy tonight – more abstract, perhaps less in your face, but no less impressive. It’s really exciting to anticipate where they’ll go next. E’spaniel are returning local heroes, it seems, although new to me, and while their brand of literate, jangling indie pop isn’t quite my thing these days, they’re really good at it, especially on the songs that have plenty of Go Betweens in their DNA. Objections were absolutely terrific tonight, a band that despite their very self-deprecating manner are absolutely at the top of their game. They’re as taut and wiry as Shellac (and honestly that accomplished), with Turps’ ‘Charlie Watts does hardcore’ drumming, Joe’s bewildering oscillator guitars and Claire’s breathtaking nimble, propulsive bass and vocals that are fierce but vulnerable, hints of early eighties post-punk outfits like The Raincoats. We get most (all?) of their debut album (Optimistic Sizing, just out on the inestimable Wrong Speed Records), and a bass rendition of the theme from The Wire. They create a maelstrom of post-this, post-that, post-everything brilliance and then they’re gone, all grins and ‘aw shucks’ humility. Magnificent.

Thundercat by Victoria Wai

PET NEEDS,

GENERATION

FERAL IRKED, PAGEANT MOM @ THE GEORGIAN THEATRE, STOCKTON (16.04.24)

Words: Laura Doyle

I’d been waiting since 2019 for my and Norwich punks Pet Needs’ schedules to align, until finally our paths crossed in Stockton. Three supports on a sleepy Tuesday night was a bold choice, but the acts themselves are more than deserving of respect. After a little kerfuffle finding parking, we only caught the denouement of Pageant Mom. What we did see was thoroughly enjoyable: a classic blend of emotional sulk and loud angst. Irked followed, their between-song politeness inversely proportional to their anarchic punk beats. I still don’t know if their opening song had any lyrics or if it was just one long, pained scream. Main support, solo singer-songwriter Generation Feral, had much softer vibes, although her ukulele-driven witty take-downs of social injustice were just as biting.

The Stockton crowd may have been small, but they welcomed Pet Needs to the stage with all their might – and the love went both ways for their first Teesside audience. Beautifully complex deep-dives into the human psyche splattered with Modern Artsy references were on the bill, and their record-quality live sound demonstrated that Pet Needs more than deserved their Top 20 Album Chart position for February’s Intermittent Fast Living. If you’ve dabbled in spinning anything from their surprisingly extensive back catalogue, it’s well worth the effort to give their live shows a go – because that’s where Pet Needs really shine.

THE ZUTONS, CASINO @ WYLAM BREWERY, NEWCASTLE (16.04.24)

Words: Lee Hammond

The long-awaited return of The Zutons has finally arrived. With a new album on the horizon, tonight presents a chance to hear a chunk of it before it’s officially released at the end of the month. Fellow Liverpool band Casino open, and their funky Scouse-laden grooves have this sold-out crowd dancing along in no time. Their hooks draw you in and quickly become infectious ear worms, in many ways matching The Zutons’ upbeat sound.

The Zutons finally take to the stage, opening with the ever-brilliant

Zuton Fever, which kicks off a nostalgic set laced with brilliant new tracks. Recent singles Big Decider and Creeping On The Dancefloor are both exceptional, Dave McCabe’s familiar knack for a hook that doesn’t leave you for days is second to none. These new tracks hold their own against a raft of old favourites, with Pressure Point, Dirty Dancehall, You Will You Won’t, Why Won’t You Give Me Your Love and of course Valerie all featuring tonight.

At times, the band needn’t have bothered trying to sing, as the crowd takes over in deafening fashion. The Zutons remain undeterred, deftly proving that their back catalogue is as popular as ever, and new album The Big Decider is set to catapult them back into view. A truly brilliant show tonight from a band who still have so much to give.

HOLIDAY GHOSTS, DOG YEARS, SPIDER NOISES @ THE CUMBERLAND ARMS, NEWCASTLE (08.04.24)

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

Spider Noises, aka Jake from the terrific Pink Poison, is a very interesting preposition. Delivering weird, impressionistic narratives with this level of earnestness might be a recipe for disaster, but Jake’s vivid, dense songwriting is as idiosyncratic as it is entertaining, walking the tightrope between gallows humour and genuine pathos.

Dog Years are often billed as indie pop veterans of the scene, but I think this undersells them somewhat. Tonight, they present a set of corkscrewing, kaleidoscopic compositions that have more in common with the likes of Quasi or Grandaddy than the C86. They oscillate between out-and-out aggression to docile melancholy effortlessly, and there’s a captivating sense of control to the chaos.

Holiday Ghosts’ retro-rock stylings don’t reinvent the wheel, but they do present a fresh, modern perspective on a well-worn formula. Densely lyrical songs about landlords culture and late-capitalism are delivered with a propulsive bounce: the engine room of the group being the relentless rhythm section, the concise sweet songs held together with melodic, McCartney-esque bass playing. Single Big Congratulations, which sounds like a lost Veronica Falls song, gets the most rapturous response of the evening, topping of a grin-inducing hour of breakneck indie pop.

The Zutons by Jamie Huntley

YOWL, PET ROCK, RED TUB @ THE CUMBERLAND ARMS, NEWCASTLE (08.04.24)

Words: Matthew McDonnell

Upon seeing the members of Red Tub grace the stage, decked in denim jackets, combat boots and a considerable amount of hair gel, I had prepared myself for the tried and tested three chord combo that had served the punk bands of the 70s so dutifully. As it turns out, this reservation was completely unwarranted. Halfway through one of their songs, the guitarist broke into a blistering guitar solo that would make Steve Vai look up from one of his many excessively stringed guitars. This combined with some excellent harmonies, breakdowns and playful hooks prove what a versatile and tight band they really are.

Pet Rock provided an instant throwback to the pop-punk and Midwest emo sound of the 2000s. All of their songs are imbibed with this sort of joyful exuberance and youthfulness that you can’t help but feel nostalgic for. The way that the guitar shimmers and swells then crashes under waves of reverb is a delight to listen to and instantly compelling. There is an eeriness in the way that YOWL frontman Gabriel Bryde commands the stage so effortlessly. Unlike many of their post-punk contemporaries, they marry melody and darkness perfectly. Not a note is wasted; these songs are carefully crafted and considered. From the brooding and sinister sound of Weedkiller, to the gentle acoustic number A Birthday With David, YOWL’s sound is the perfect example of less is more; subtle yet calculated, restrained yet undeniable.

THE HIVES @ O2 CITY HALL, NEWCASTLE (28.03.24)

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

Hives singer Pelle Almqvist is in gregarious spirits tonight, stopping to ask the audience “Do you like the way we look? Do you like the way we sound? Do you like our relationship with reality?” It’s the last question that quietly reveals the group’s MO and appeal. Broadly unchanged for thirty years, the Hives’ brand of hyper-melodic garage rock has fallen in and out of fashion, but its appeal and their charm has been unwavering. Where their peers of the early noughties have imploded or become more introspective, the Hives have maintained their incredible, and relatively ego-less,  commitment to doing one thing incredibly well and

having loads of fun along the way.

I can’t remember the last time I was at a show that prompted a mass sing along of a bassline, but here we are. Songs from their new record

The Death Of Randy Fitzsimmons are greeted with as much warmth as the old hits. It’s testament to the strength of the material when song as well known as Main Offender are flippantly blazed through early on, and sit shoulder to shoulder with brilliant new songs like Bogus Operandi. Where the tone is one note, the energy of the show and relentless quality of the material makes the show zip by, the mark of true rock ‘n’ roll alchemy.

SAINT SAVIOUR, AMELIA COBURN @ THE GEORGIAN THEATRE, STOCKTON (28.03.24)

Words: Dawn Storey

Tonight the Georgian Theatre hosts two of Teesside’s finest vocalists, both of whom are promoting new LPs.

Amelia Coburn was recently belittled by an ignorant man on the internet for ruining her folk songs with her “lower class” accent. It’s his loss. Not everyone could hold a crowd’s interest for an entire set accompanied by only a ukulele, but her crystal clear vocals and timeless storytelling have everyone engrossed, especially after an amusing introduction to Dublin Serenade. Every track she plays from debut album Between The Moon And The Milkman is compelling, as is the control she has over her delicate voice, and Please Go Gently is a real tearjerker. She exits to a rapturous reception and no doubt many will return for her headline show with a band in June.

Saint Saviour is an equally captivating presence, as are her excellent band. Becky herself switches between piano, synths and harmonium throughout the evening, but it’s her beautiful voice which is the most mesmerising instrument. At times there are hints of Kate Bush and Natasha Khan, but they are fleeting and allow her own unique magic to shine through, particularly on an emotional performance of For My Love. Songs from new album Sunseeker are well received and Morning Bird is especially lovely, with the summery Better Than That another highlight.

The Hives by Thomas Jackson

TRACKS

ROMM THIS KINDA LOVE

Words: Matt Young

Navigating complex and toxic relationships that you’re not prepared for or warned about as a young woman is a frightening prospect. ROMM’s clearly voiced anguish, frustration and heartfelt yearning about this only serve to make her lyrics and emotions all the more relatable. This Kinda Love is a piano-led track, deftly played by Nadeem, ROMM’s brother, making this a real family effort. You can just about hear some echoes of her musical influences, the pop balladry of Alicia Keys or Nora Jones for instance, but she soars vocally with her own style. Modern love can be a hazardous place to negotiate but it appears the ROMM knows what she wants, there’s a determinedness and strength on display that impressively pushes through while maintaining a sweet sound.

Released: 17.05.24

www.instagram.com/rommsmusic

CAITIE TRAGIC

Words: James Hattersley

A lot can be determined by the opening line of a song. In this case “once upon a time” has never sounded so whimsical and equally as devastating. Tragic, the latest single released by pop singer-songwriter Caitie, careens through the rollercoaster of a shattered teenage friendship. Dreamlike synths undercoat the sugary sweet vocals whilst moving at pace, as reminiscing has become too painful and can’t be dwelled on for long. While the chorus is catchy, upbeat and enthralling, there is a joyful sorrow, with a hint of malice.

We’re not privy to what happened, however through this fantastical atmosphere and coupled with witty writing, it begs for us to reflect on our own friendships. Bittersweet melancholic pop at its finest.

Released: 10.05.24

www.instagram.com/caitiexmusic

(PLEASE TRY TO GET IN TOUCH 8-6 WEEKS AHEAD

MARTHA HILL FOOTBALL

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

Football is the first single in two years from Martha Hill. Hill has taken complete ownership over this tune by playing and producing everything, while working with engineer John Martindale.

The unusual visual metaphor of dilapidated objects is a compelling one and a really great hook. The downbeat chorus, with its Cate Le Bon-esque “oohs” and “aahs” floats mellifluously over skittish rhythms. The song concludes with a pleasing key change packed with pathos; the sweet refrain “it’s all right to feel like you’re falling apart” is comfortingly melancholy, and it’s melancholy that is Hill’s strongest suit, finding beauty in the most prosaic of places. Given the context in which it was produced, a completely DIY affair by a multi-talented instrumentalist, it’s an absolute triumph.

Released: 03.05.24

www.facebook.com/marthahillmusic

BIG ROMANCE DOGFIGHT

Words: Matthew Brown

With a visceral surge into grunge territory, Newcastle’s Big Romance’s latest single, Dogfight, marks a distinct departure from the vibrant punch of their previous single Sickener to embrace a deeper, more melancholic sound.

Under the deft production of Paul Gregory (Lanterns On The Lake), the track masterfully balances a raw, edgy vibe with professional polish, belying the band’s relative newness on the scene. With screeching guitars and ferocious drums cutting through dense, reverb-laden landscapes, Dogfight aptly captures the essence of a panic-fuelled outburst, making it an anthem for anyone overwhelmed with frustration. This track is a must-listen for fans of Nirvana, Fontaines D.C. and IDLES, and it’s one that really shows Big Romance as a band hitting their stride.

Released: 24.05.24

www.linktr.ee/bigromanceband

LIVING IN SHADOWS CAST AWAY

Words: Adam Paxton

It’s always nice to feel like the musical and lyrical content of a song synchronise in a way that they feel almost one. Not just in terms of their actual sonic qualities, but in terms of what they’re trying to accomplish. Cast Away is a song about pushing your boundaries and making positive changes, about not being afraid to walk the path less taken. It is therefore only fitting that the music does exactly this, remaining interesting and inventive throughout, with unconventional timing and phrasing, whilst still supporting the vocals. Rarely does a song as inventive as this also feel as cohesive and free of gratuitousness. In Cast Away, Living In Shadows have a single that practices what it preaches, while remaining a genuinely good track in its own right.

Released: 03.05.24

www.livinginshadows.bandcamp.com

MIKE HEBDEN SHE LOOKED AT ME

Words: Matt Young

Opening with bouncy lounge soul vibes is a promising start, but then the storytelling lyrics begin, uttered with little emotion and beyond cringe most of the time.

The lyrics detail a pretty hackneyed male fantasy, making eye contact with “your every desire” across the room, even though you’ve been warned by a random guy she’s “trouble”. For some men it must seem like a plausible scenario, but is it? “I said you look the type who has a law degree. She said, ‘Take a ride and break the law with me, tonight.’” It’s a cliché of potential red flags – on both sides, I might add! Okay, it’s melodramatic and although cursed with poor lyrics could be forgiven, maybe, if the overall feeling wasn’t unfortunately so flat.

Released: 03.05.24

www.twitter.com/holamiguel

COWS LYING DOWN MY FRIEND SOUTINE

Words: Niamh Poppleton

Newcastle-based band Cows Lying Down add another introspection of human nature to their catalogue, with their latest release My Friend Soutine. Under a facade of cheerful instrumentation mixing guitar strums and slow drumbeats, is a sombre tale of historical truths. Woven between vibrantly stunning descriptions, the lyrics relay the life of Chaïm Soutine – a Jewish French expressionist painter hunted by the Nazis. The juxtaposed upbeat music and solemn story mirrors the distorted nature of Soutine’s paintings. Dark yet vivid depictions of people and landscapes are stitched between each line. In an amalgamation of folk, pop and rock, in which Cows Lying Down convey an account of human strength and dignity that maps out the perseverance at the centre of mankind’s existence.

Released: 01.05.24

www.cowslyingdown.com

CORA MANCHESTER FORBIDDEN LOVE

Words: Niamh Poppleton

Following November’s debut EP You Haven’t Seen The Last of Me, Cora Manchester proves her titular prophecy true with the release of Forbidden Love. From the culturally ingrained star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet to modern TV interpretations, prohibited love infuses human history and is integral to understanding our desires and emotional capacity; Cora beautifully expresses these concepts in a song blanketed in eerie wonder. Sombre tones, reminiscent of Lorde, meet classic orchestral instruments, crashing drums and twinkling bells. An enchantment is cast over the listener as you become immersed in Cora’s vocals and lyrical allure. Forbidden Love captures the cries of lovers lost, unrequited love and the melancholy that accompanies loving somebody you can never have in one fell swoop.

Released: 24.05.24 www.coramusic.com

HMRC BOOTS ON THE GROUND

Words: Matthew Brown

Boots On The Ground by HMRC delivers a ferocious blast from Newcastle’s post-post-punk scene, echoing the disenchanted spirit of the mid-1970s, one that almost thrusts us right back into the throes of the Cold War.

A must-listen for fans of brutal punk favourites Benefits, this track features blistering drum work and tantalising bass lines from the very start. HMRC narrate the grim tableau of a passive UK populace too subdued to challenge governmental control, that is until a cancelled holiday sparks outrage. The persistent warning “bombs are overhead” evokes a reflection on the current outbreaks of war in Europe and potential global conflicts. HMRC’s sound is a raw, powerful protest, articulated with a cynical wit, perfect for our troubled times.

Released: 10.05.24

www.youtube.com/@HMRC-theband

BRYAN UNRULY EP

Words: James Hattersley

Loudly haunting, Bryan’s Unruly EP is an open wound. Wrought with sadness, the duo use atmospheric lo-fi to dive into tough topics; from addiction to searching for meaning to justify this cold and callous world. Taking musical queues from Radiohead, songs begin with a lingering guitar, joined by an ensemble of harrowing synths, robotic drums and a forlorn vocal, you’re immersed in a dark wood of despair.

Tinhead is a traumatic tale of how delicate we are as human beings, with Downtrodden pondering how easily we forgot our history and humanity. I Don’t Believe In You will torment your soul with its blasphemy and Unruly reflects on youth and ageing. An aching wail for those who need it the most.

Released: 16.05.24

www.instagram.com/bryan.theband

HEKLA GOODMAN LAST CALL

Words: Ben Lowes-Smith

Hekla Goodman’s Last Call is an unusually brilliant thing; pure pop music that takes its influence from fairly disparate sources. Hekla’s vocal performance is indebted to country pop, Shania Twain was an immediate point of reference on listening. The heartfelt vocal performance is backed by fairly modern production qualities, as minimal, pulsating rhythms are Jackson Pollock’d across the track. Clocking in at just under three minutes, it’s a fairly valiant attempt at a modern pop song and is wonderfully produced and contemporary without riding the zeitgeist. It’s a genuinely memorable song that wouldn’t sound out of place on prime time Radio 1.

Released: 17.05.24 www.heklagoodman.co.uk

WILLIAM CAWLEY POV POP EP

Words: Adam Paxton

This is a fun, inventive EP. Simple riffs, layered with deceptive harmonies on 2 Girls get things off a strong start. 5 ft 10 is a fun jaunt, the opening riff sounding something like if The Smiths wrote Pretty Vacant. The lyrics echo another great band in The Buzzcocks. Natalie continues this feeling, and it is executed well. Regine Or_ ends the EP on a strong note, with a great riff driving the song. Some strange production choices do plague the song, and there’s a sense across the EP that some of the songs could benefit from a slower tempo, to allow them to breathe. Nevertheless, this is a solid, extremely fun EP. It may not be high-concept or groundbreaking, but I defy you not to have fun with it.

Released: 24.05.24 www.linktr.ee/williamcawley

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: MATT YOUNG

DEMO OF THE MONTH

Moss – True (feat. Oui Bee)

True begins with incredibly sparse trip-hop style beats and a prowling synth, coaxing out an ethereal voice provided by singer Oui Bee, in due course. It’s a vocal that’s conspiratorial and hushed, reminiscent of Beth Gibbons at times, and soon this pleading, almost sorrowful sound gives way to an almighty howl. The gnarly feeling is wild and raw with anguish. The questioning refrain “How am I supposed to love you?” twists, sung over and over, its meaning turned inside out as the music gets rockier and heavier.

There’s an unpinning of distrust here by the song’s closing bars, and an almost resigned acceptance that this is how life is now. The collapse at the end into ringing silence leaves you slightly bereft, an effective way to bring the listener on board in solidarity and seeking more. www.facebook.com/mossmusicpage

Kirk/Bogart – Nothing But You

Nothing But You is a smooth, cool-sounding tune with a laid-back vibe that belies the ‘end of the road’ infused lyric. Singer Jordan Kirkup and producer Sam Palmer, aided and abetted by Dan Smiles (keys) and Mick Henderson (bass) all give the song a hazy structure for Kirkup’s words to meander across with the lightest of touches. There’s a lugubrious tone throughout but the whole thing feels too short, too slight in places despite some nice Gothic pop melodies and the slightly paranoid feeling soundscape the quartet produces. www.linkin.bio/kirkbogart

Spelk – Lying Doug

Forget Drake and every other rapper, this song is the real place to get your musical beef. I’ve no idea who Doug is, only that his conspiracy-fuelled lies are laughable but that’s hardly relevant as the song throws just about every style and influence there is into

the mix and turns out a cautionary warning about his lies! There are Ian Dury-type vocals that turn into huge bellows, metal riffing, repetitive snare hits, Primus silliness, and then just a little over halfway through a riff that’s kind-of-a-bit-but-not-quite-like the opening of Pulp’s Babies. It’s exciting. Ultimately it seems like we’re almost chastised for not opening our eyes to the obvious stubbornness of Doug’s lies, and I think that’s fair, on balance. www.instagram.com/spelkband

The Orion Trio – Movin’ Around

Name-checking iconic cities in the style of Route 66, but only a little less iconically, this ode to hitchhiking around the USA is based on the reminiscences from the early 1970s of songwriter and singer Watts as he reflects on this particular part of his past. It’s a typically rootsy feeling narrative song coupled with a classic driving song feel. The nostalgia for Americana is palpable, even if some of the experiences, in hindsight at least, were a little

skin of the pants in their execution. He survived to retell his tales though, and this is a better artefact than an album full of faded photos.

www.wattsie.bandcamp.com

Monkie Mind – Ocean Road

This brash barmy ode to the fantastic tastes of Ocean Road curry houses in South Shields erupts in a blitz of power punk pop that never lets up. Characteristically exuberant, it features melodious vocals accompanied by hard and fast riffs and pounding drumbeats as the trio belts through is upbeat tempo with humour and raw energy. The group’s sound is bright, fun and rarely serious, even though it’s obvious that they love what they do and are passionate about the results. In short, it’s a raucously good time and yes might be very tongue-in-cheek, in that down the pub with your mates way, but that’s not to be dismissive in any way.

www.linktr.ee/monkeymind

Image by Stomp Photography

ALBUMS

4 / 5

YAYA BEY TEN FOLD (BIG DADA)

Words: Ikenna Offor

Buoyed by an intoxicating blend of soulful reflexivity and sonic exploration, Yaya Bey’s sophomore album Ten Fold charts an immersive journey through the complexities of love, identity and self-discovery. Armed with crystalline vocals and arrestingly nuanced lyricism, Bey deftly weaves relatable tales steeped in vicarious emotionality, inviting listeners into her world with sincerity and acuity.

ARAB STRAP

I’M TOTALLY FINE WITH IT DON’T GIVE A FUCK

ANYMORE (ROCK ACTION)

Words: Ali Welford

With reformations now commonplace and new music increasingly an expectation, more and more acts are experiencing a second wind sustainability problem. Having returned with one of their finest ever records in 2021’s As Days Get Dark, Aidan Moffat and Malcolm Middleton now find themselves with the same quandary experienced (with mixed results) by fellow ‘90s veterans Slowdive, Sleater-Kinney and Ride: how to maintain momentum and relevance once the glow of the glorious comeback has worn off. Seemingly conscious of its predicament, I’m totally fine… is defined above all by its determination to resist rehashing old ground. It’s still a record which sounds singularly and unmistakably like Arab Strap, yet one propelled by the whims of its creators rather than any temptation to play to a crowd – be it old-timers or new generations swept up by their resurgence. Certainly, the electronic experimentation that’s formed a key component in their makeup ever since The First Big Weekend is embraced like never before – from the seductive throb of lead single Bliss to glitched-up standouts Summer Season and Strawberry Moon. For all the embellishments and alt. pop flourishes, however, it’s Moffat’s razor-focused lyrical gaze which carves this eighth effort a unique place in the Strap discography. Ever the chronicler of secret lives played out behind closed doors, here he delves into the cold anonymity and squalid depths of online discourse; a culmination of his latter-day tilt from self-reference to wider sociopolitical and technological commentary. It’s a record where limitless possibilities collide with lived reality, where everybody from “self-righteous, self-styled renegades” to “groomers, grifters, Nazis and rapists” squabble for supremacy, sucking the oxygen which once supplied the pillars of compassion, fact and nuance.

It’s a characteristically bleak picture, but it’s the simmering undercurrent of anger which makes these some of Moffat’s darkest turns to date – compounded by an evident love and openness towards spaces which now feel tainted. It’s a headspace epitomised by the album’s unwieldly title, as well as its supreme opening numbers: “You’d think I’d riot. You’d think I’d cry. Instead I sit here fucking numb” Moffat laments on Allatonceness, before Bliss’ damning final verdict: “We built another world, but history and hate prevail”.

Released: 10.05.24

www.arabstrap.scot 4 / 5

ALSO OUT THIS MONTH

The Lovely Eggs - Eggsistentialism (Egg Records, 17.05) // Rachel Chinouriri - What A Devastating Turn of Events (Parlophone/Atlas Records, 03.05) // Martha Rose - Close to Close (Millions and Mansions, 31.05) // Jessica Pratt - Here in the Pitch (City Slang, 03.05) // Normil Hawaiians - Empires into Sand (Upset The Rhythm, 03.05) // Cowtown - Fear Of... (Gringo Records, 31.05) // Mary Lattimore and Walt McClementsRain on the Road (Thrill Jockey, 10.05) // Jim White & Marisa Anderson - Swallowtail (Thrill Jockey, 10.05) // Kamasi Washington - Fearless Movement (Young, 03.05) // Villagers - That Golden Time (Domino, 10.05) // Big Special - Postindustrial Hometown Blues (SO Recordings, 10.05) // Knocked Loose - You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To (Pure Noise Records, 10.05) // Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard And Soft (Darkroom/ Interscope/Polydor Records, 17.05) // Maya Hawke - Chaos Angel (Mom+Pop, 31.05) // Carlos Niño & Friends - Placenta (International Anthem, 24.05) // Kings of Leon - Can We Please Have Fun (Polydor Records, 10.05)

From the hypnotic lament that is Crying Through My Teeth to the vaunted affirmations of East Coast Mami, Bey’s narrative chops shine with authenticity and vulnerability, showcasing her sublime versatility. Sonically, the mellifluous bedrock of jazz-flecked R&B and electro filigrees provides the perfect foil for Bey, girding her poetics with layers of texture and atmosphere. Essential listening for all craving actual substance over empty posturing.

Released: 10.05.24 www.yaya-bey.com

5 / 5

EX-EASTER ISLAND HEAD NORTHER (ROCKET RECORDINGS)

Words: Lee Fisher

A decade and five albums in, Ex-Easter Island Head have made their masterpiece (which isn’t to say all the other records weren’t great too). Norther takes all the elements that make their music so remarkable – Reichian minimalism and repetition, a playful approach to their instruments (mallets and Allan keys rather than plectrums) – and distils them into something truly exhilarating, a weather-informed collection of songs that run from the hypnotic, dancefloorfriendly title track to the gamelan-esque rhythms of Easter and the vocal manipulations of Magnetic Language.

What’s so delightful about EEIH is that their innovations (whirring motors, modified pick-ups and the rest) never get in the way of making music which is joyous and alive with possibilities. This is a rich and rewarding listen.

Released: 17.05.24

www.exeasterislandhead.bandcamp.com

5 / 5

MYRIAM GENDRON MAYDAY (THRILL JOCKEY)

Words: Lee Fisher

Those of us utterly captivated by Myriam Gendron’s first two albums have been waiting for this album for years. Another underground artist finding a perfect home on Thrill Jockey, Gendron builds on the incremental developments of Ma Délire – particularly the inclusion of sparing, often quite radical, instrumental elements – to give us her finest yet. Marissa Anderson and Jim White appear again, and there’s some astonishing sax from Zoh Amba on the stirring closer Berceuse. But ultimately it’s about that guitar – all liquid flow, gently propulsive – and that voice, a singularly beautiful expression of sweet melancholy that shares a cadence and depth with fellow Quebecois Leonard Cohen. It’s hard to pick favourites on an album quite this great, but La Belle Francoise is a real heartbreaker.

Released: 10.05.24

www.myriamgendron.bandcamp.com

/ 5

FRANK TURNER UNDEFEATED (XTRA MILE RECORDINGS)

Words: Lee Hammond

This is Turner’s tenth solo album and one which sees him on typically fine form, hopping around a variety of genres whilst retaining his signature style. No Thank You For The Music, Do One and The Leaders are all excellent examples of Frank at his angry best. However, it is Somewhere Inbetween’s darker tone that really brings the track to life, which compounds the anger that characterises the majority of Undefeated. Despite its undeniable melancholy, the themes of being grateful, Turner’s pride in his achievements and his gritty determination fuel the end of the record in style, with the hope-filled crescendo title track, which builds from its delicate opening to a bombastic end. Another brilliant record from Frank Turner.

Released: 03.05.24 www.frank-turner.com

4 / 5

GROUP LISTENING WALKS (PRAH RECORDINGS)

Words: Robert Nichols

Musical collaborators Paul Jones and Stephen Black, aka Sweet Baboo, invite you to join them on an album of sublime sonic perambulations. Following a couple of long players of reinterpreting, this time it is all original composition. Using woodwind and ambient electronic wizardry interspersed with field recordings we explore with a wide-eyed wonder. Experience a jaunty, breezy New Brighton wander, or deep dive into the concrete and palm trees of a utopian Milton Keynes Shopping Building, while Frogs sounds like a 70s spy thriller theme. Stephen cites the influence of sax player Sam Grendel and his partner in design takes those playful or bewitching woodwind tunes and showers them in ambience or post-modernist synths.Take a walk on the dialled-in side with Group Listening.

Released: 10.05.24

www.grouplistening.bandcamp.com

/ 5

IBIBIO SOUND MACHINE PULL THE ROPE (MERGE)

Words: Tracy Hyman

Pull The Rope captures the essence of Ibibio Sound Machine, but with a more crafted, mature sound. Empowering and uplifting, their trademark infectious Afrobeat-fused electro pop is laden with rhythmic intricacies, hooks and riffs.

There is the observational Political Incorrect, an insight into anti-social media and its effect on human interactions. Then, there are songs which advocate female empowerment and self-worth, such as the groove-laden Got To Be Who U Are, complete with futuristic synths.

Stand out tracks Pull The Rope and Fire both have a repetitive simplicity in their tribal chant, edgy and funky. Fire is hypnotic, its rhythms pulsing forwards, calling you to the dancefloor. Pull The Rope is an astute record to move your feet to.

Released: 03.05.24

www.ibibiosoundmachine.com

3.5 / 5

HOW TO DRESS WELL I AM TOWARD YOU (SARGENT HOUSE)

Words: Matt Young

After experimenting with both pop and noisier forms on the most recent brace of releases Care (2016) and The Anteroom (2018), Tom Krell aka How To Dress Well took a long time out. He returns with a reflective album that harks back to his musical origins. It combines deftly selected weighty samples and a deep philosophical approach within the transcendent music. Individual tracks will stand out to each listener; the noise-inflected Crypt Sustain and expansive sound of Song In The Middle got me, and featured artists lend their perspectives too. Ultimately, Krell wants everyone to find their truth, their perceptions widened by his music much like his 2010 debut Love Remains aspired to, before spawning a generation of glitchy, trap artists with less lofty goals.

Released: 10.05.24

www.howtodresswell.com

/ 5

BETH GIBBONS LIVES OUTGROWN (DOMINO)

Words: Matt Young

You know Beth Gibbons right? She provides ethereal, otherworldly vocals and lyrics with Portishead, Rustin Man, and guest features over the past thirty-plus years, but this is solo Beth –her long-awaited debut.

It comes as the result of a lot of goodbyes. Family, friends, her former self, and it’s intensely personal and vulnerable. Floating On A Moment, the first single, evokes memories of Portishead’s Mysterons but transforms it into this new era facing mortality, motherhood, sadness and more. Rather than feel oppressive however, the songs on Lives Outgrown are richly drawn reflections of overcoming the bad moments. Pacing is key with Reaching Out, For Sale and Beyond The Sun increasing tempos, triumphantly building up to album closer Whispering Love and feeling renewed hope in the future.

Released: 17.05.24

www.bethgibbons.net

3 / 5

BAT FOR LASHES THE DREAM OF DELPHI (MERCURY KX)

Words: Jade Mia Broadhead

Whilst Natasha Khan’s previous record Lost Girls looked to a nostalgic past, this one looks to the future with the birth of her first daughter, Delphi. It’s very much a concept album, but unlike her career highlight The Bride, it’s one that focuses more on the feeling than the song.

Ethereal vocal harmonies run throughout, from the title track opener, but words are scarce. It’s essentially a collection of widescreen soundtrack instrumentals and tracks like the piano-led Her First Morning, which are beautiful but ultimately the soundtrack to a movie only Natasha has seen. For the most part, our only clues lie in the titles. It’s extra frustrating that when she does finally treat us to a pop song, Home, it’s quite brilliant.   Released: 31.05.24 www.batforlashes.com

ISOBEL CAMPBELL BOW TO LOVE (COOKING VINYL)

Words: Robin Webb

A subtle smash in the chops from Isobel’s latest release, is a rather lovely musical gathering round the neon campfire, pristinely sung and – if you listen closely – there is menace in them there words. Taking a simple folkiness and infusing it with hints of psych electronica, occasional Indian refrain as in Second Guessing or Americana in Bow To Love reminiscent of her days working with Mark Lanegan, this mix of styles really stands proud when the motorik 4316 is quickly followed by a balmy Dopamine slipping us into understated shoe-gazed feedback.

Cathartic intentions suffuse throughout with lyrics covering love, toxic masculinity and being a misaligned cog in the social media machine all gives the album an air of deserved and respectable maturity.

Released: 17.05.24

www.isobelcampbell.com

4.5 / 5

GIRLI MATRIARCHY (BELIEVE)

Words: Stephen Oliver

Milly Toomey releases her sophomore album as girli and it is a wonderful expression of self. Whilst the upbeat sounding electronic music ticks over pleasantly enough, it is the quality of the lyrics that are really striking. The listener is exposed to an authentic and personal exploration by an alt. pop artist who understands how to write a catchy memorable song.

Going beyond the representation of LGBTQIA+ issues are songs about relationships, sexuality, self-doubt and wellbeing. Within a single song girli is able to discuss the emotional highs and lows of relationships, overthinking the situation and the crisis of confidence that results. Combining a self-aware exposition within a fresh pop sounding framework has resulted in powerful and enjoyable conversation about identity.

Released: 17.05.24

www.girlimusic.com

DIIV FROG IN BOILING WATER (FANTASY)

Words: Matthew Brown

DIIV’s Frog In Boiling Water emerges from a period of personal and professional tumult. This record embarks with the immersive In Amber, setting a dense atmospheric tone that characterises the album. The single, Everyone Out, showcases the band’s knack for blending shoegaze with post-industrial elements, standing out for its replay value amidst an array of dense sonic landscapes. Zachary Cole Smith’s vocals, while hushed, sometimes blur a little too into the background, demanding keen attention to fully appreciate. This choice, however, enhances the album’s ethereal quality, meshing with the overarching themes of grappling with a daunting future. Frog In Boiling Water is an exploration of persistence and resilience, marked by a meticulous fusion of breakbeats, haunting guitars and reflective lyrics. Released: 24.05.24

www.diiv.bandcamp.com

4 / 5

MDOU MOCTAR FUNERAL FOR JUSTICE (MATADOR)

Words: Luke Waller

Moctar’s story is the stuff of legend. From building his first guitar from bicycle parts in a mining town of his native Niger to becoming the international face of desert blues, Funeral For Justice marks a new chapter in an incredible tale.

This album, Moctar’s seventh, follows 2021’s groundbreaking Afrique Victime and answers it with a politically-charged barrage, embracing a heavier and speedier edge. Entirely sung in Tamasheq, Funeral For Justice deals with the painful legacy of French colonialism in West Africa, with palpable anguish in the strident sound of distorted guitar. Throughout, the four-piece demonstrates spectacular musical prowess across the board. However, Moctar’s unique and masterful style is truly a thing to experience, warranting his epithet: ‘Hendrix of the Sahara’.

Released: 03.05.24

www.mdoumoctar.com

AMEN DUNES DEATH JOKES (SUB POP)

Words: Matthew McDonnell

Amen Dunes started out its life, primarily, as a folk project. While there is still a faint remanence of those original stylings on Death Jokes, overall this album marks a big departure from those roots. By embracing sampling, voice modulation and even EDM drum beats, Damon McMahon has created something unlike any of his previous work. The use of everyday conversations and laughter interspersed throughout the album creates a psychedelic, almost alien feel, as if we are eavesdropping into the lives of others.

Despite all this, everything you’d expect from an Amen Dunes album is still here. Mellow instrumentals, poetic imagery and those signature staccato vocals are a constant throughout the track listing, anchoring the more experimental aspects of the songs.

Released: 10.05.24

www.bedroomdrum.com

MIXTAPE

WORDS: CEITIDH MAC, SAM GRANT, FRANKIE ARCHER & JAYNE DENT

As if having a successful album in recent release Seabird wasn’t enough to prove alt. folk cellist Ceitidh Mac’s superb talent, she’s now enlisted a talented group of pals to create a series of masterful remixes of some of the songs, in a newly released EP due out on 17th May. Re-imaginings and collaborations come courtesy of Sam Grant (aka Rubber Oh), Jayne Dent (Me Lost Me) and Frankie Archer, all of whom wax lyrical here on some of their favourite remixes. www.ceitidhmac.com

CEITIDH MAC

GREENTEA PENG/NIGHTMARES ON WAX

TOP STEPPA V2

One of the first people I saw playing live after Covid was Greentea Peng at Latitude Festival. It reminded me of the power of collectively experiencing live music, and hearing live music through a sound system! I listened to her music a lot since then and enjoyed this Nightmares on Wax Remix.

ROZI PLAIN (HIRO AMA)

CONDITIONS

I love the original of this track by Rozi Plain. I think this remix really catches the warmth and dreaminess of the track. It’s got a euphoric build to it and still keeps the original as a thread with Rozi Plain’s vocals still shining through.

SAM GRANT

THE GENTLE PEOPLE

JOURNEY (APHEX TWIN CARE MIX)

Any tracks from Aphex Twin’s 26 Mixes

For Cash could be chosen. For some he’s quoted as saying “I never heard the originals...I don’t want to, either.” Bold remix attitude. This particular track was a favourite – an amazing work in its own right.

DONNA SUMMER

I FEEL LOVE (MEGA MIX)

This remix is glorious. The original is already nailed down, so Cowley just made it longer! Perfect... with added psychedelic seasoning!

FRANKIE ARCHER

SAMARIS

GÓÐA TUNGL (DJ ARFI REMIX)

I listened to the original of this song so much in the early 2010s and only heard this remix a few weeks ago. I know the original inside out so hearing the weird bendy chords DJ Arfi made my brain feel odd in the best way.

GOJIRA

BORN IN WINTER BUT IT’S TOXIC BY BRITNEY SPEARS

The unexpected but perfect lovechild of my teenage pop and metal obsessions.

JAYNE DENT

TASHI WADA & YOSHI WADA

FANFARE (JULIA HOLTER ‘UNEARTHLY BIRD’ REMIX)

I adore the original piece, and I love Julia’s approach to remixing it here because it feels like a completely different track – she doesn’t just arrange it, it’s more like a new work in response to the original. She takes this dense wall of sound and carves away at it like a sculptor before adding completely new vocal parts, taking it to another realm entirely.

BAS JAN

ANGLO SAXON BURIAL GROUND (LONE TAXIDERMIST REMIX)

I love this remix because it’s so playful and unexpected. The catchy vocal hooks are repeated incessantly like ritual chants over this amazing mixture of video game like SFX and spooky club music, like Stonehenge is melting or something.

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