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FOR OUR SECOND BIRTHDAY NE VOLUME MAGAZINE PRESENTS AN EXCLUSIVE STRIPPED-BACK SHOW!

Wire at Georgian Theatre, Artist Spotlight: Stockton! The Golden Age Of Nothing! Post-Mortem of Kings Of We Speak to The Amazons as Leon at Metro Radio Arena! They Head to The Cluny! WE’RE LISTENING! Stockton Calling 2017!

ISSUE #21 APRIL 2017 Review of Cherry Head, Cherry Heart’s New Album! FOLLOW NE VOLUME ON SOCIAL MEDIA And much, much more!

PICK UP OUR FREE NORTH EAST MUSIC MAGAZINE! LET’S GET EVEN LOUDER NORTH EAST VOLUME!!!!!

NEWS! PG.24 Fleecetonbury Festival! WELCOME! PG.26 Stockton Calling 2017! Gig Preview: Thank you so much for picking up NE PG.5 Volume music magazine - the magazine The Real Thing at Longlands! PG.28 NE Volume Magazine 2nd Anniversary Gig! produced by local music fans, for local PG.6 40th Anniversary Gig: music fans. I can’t believe it’s coming up Angelic Upstarts at Independent, to our second anniversary! It’s been a real Sunderland! INTERVIEWS! rollercoaster ride over these last 22 or so months, but I wouldn’t have it any other PG.6 Gig Preview: PG.32 Samantha Durnan! way. I feel proud to be able to help the The Nightingales at The PG.34 Cattle & Cane! local music scene, and I hope you really Westgarth Social Club! do appreciate what we do. Anyhow, in this PG.35 Pulled Apart By Horses! month’s edition we chat to Cape Cub Gig Preview: PG.7 PG.39 Billy Bibby & The Wry Smiles! and Samantha Durnan as they prepare Andy Jones at The Looking Glass! to play our second anniversary gig at the PG.41 The Amazons! Westgarth in Middlesbrough; we provide Gig Preview: PG.10 you with our honest opinion of Kings of The Galileo 7 at The Westgarth Social Club! Leon at the Metro Radio Arena, Marsicans GIG REVIEWS! at KU Bar and more; we keep you up-to- PG.11 Gig Preview: PG.44 Kings Of Leon date with what’s happening in the region The Band For Disease Control & at Metro Radio Arena! this month including: The Nightingales Prevention at Jumpin’ Jacks! at the Westgarth, Wire at the Georgian PG.45 Stornoway at Sage! Theatre, Laurence Jones at the Cluny and PG.12 Gig Preview: more; Teesside band The Golden Age of Laurence Jones at The Cluny! PG.46 Dutch Uncles at The Cluny! Nothing are put in the spotlight, and so much more. Just to remind you, if you’ll be PG.47 Marsicans at KU Bar! running a gig or bringing any new material ARTIST SPOTLIGHT! out in April/May then please email our team at [email protected] and we’ll PG.14 Artist Spotlight: The Golden Age Of Nothing! ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS! do all we possibly can to include a review/ news piece in our May edition which will PG.52 Feva, Catalyse, Juice & Albert, be released on Friday 28th April. FEATURES! Matt Dunbar, Tyne Dock Sound PG.19 Uncovering the Georgian Bureau, Cherry Head, Cherry And thank you so much for your support Theatre’s Past! Heart! this year, it really does mean the world to me. PG.21 Redcar Ska Festival! PG.22 Hit The North Festival! PG.56 - APRIL GIG LISTINGS! Lee Allcock Editor PG.23 Record Store Day! NE Volume Magazine

All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers. The opinions expressed in NE Volume belong to the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of NE Volume or its staff. NE Volume welcomes ideas and contrbutions but can assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. NE Volume holds no responsiblilty to incorrect content supplied in adverts. NE VOLUME NEWS GIG PREVIEWS: REJOICE! USE NE VOLUME EASTER WEEKENDER AT THE STUDIO, TO PROMOTE YOUR GIGS AND/OR YOUR BUSINESS! HARTLEPOOL Hartlepool gig-goers will be spoiled with Easter treats this month as The Promote your gigs and your business to more Studio hosts a trio of top nights. And than 16,000 music fans in the North East! as a former Wesleyan chapel, the promoters noted they’re: “expecting This magazine, with a readership of 16,000+, is a fantastic punters to rejoice at the line-up”. The tool for local gig promoters and businesses to market CONTACT weekend kicks off with a funky Good themselves to local audiences. NE Volume is a North East Friday thanks to the smooth grooves magazine delivered FREE to a range of communities in the and vibes of Newcastle-based funk North East - covering Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, jazz ensemble, King Bee. Cool, casual, Darlington, Redcar, Newcastle, Sunderland, and many more. and convincing sums up the sublime Our next issue will be out on Friday 28th April so get in sounds produced by this eight-piece GIG PREVIEW: band. It’s King Bee’s first appearance touch now to get involved! EDITOR: LEE ALLCOCK back in Hartlepool since their sell-out SUB-EDITOR: DAMIAN ROBINSON show at the town’s Wintertide Festival. Our prices start from £65.00! We produce LISTINGS: EMILY HOOK THE REAL King Bee will be appearing on Friday adverts in eighth, quarter, half, full page and 14th April, supported by Thank Funk double page spreads. If you would like a full CREATIVE: TOM BROWN For That and DJ’s taking the groove NE Volume advertising pack sent out, please - THING into the early hours. Continuing the contact [email protected] busy bees theme, that’s exactly what Contact information or call us on 01642 237348. AT THE LONGLANDS Saturday at The Studio will be with Email: [email protected] | Phone: 01642 237348 the welcome return of the Gemini Our trained journalists can write your copy while our www.nevolume.co.uk/contact CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH Reunion #3. This resurrected club professional designers can help to put your adverts together. night plays homage to Hartlepool’s Written by Thomas Anderson So whatever your requirements are, we are here to help! much-loved 90s indie-venue The Gem, Magazine designed by Tom Brown Graphic Design. For quotes on Design and Consultancy services contact Tom Brown at: 70’s soul legends, The Real Thing will with a full set from Joy Division tribute [email protected] | www.tbgraphics.co.uk be hitting The Longlands Club in act Transmission, followed by indie Middlesbrough on Friday 12th May for classics. Easter Sunday is as eclectic as what is a highly-anticipated event. With it gets with The Studio hosting its Big such iconic pop hits as ‘You to Me Are One celebration featuring some of the newest and hottest musical talent NE Volume is a proud supporter of Everything’, it’s certain to be a night to remember. Supporting will be M-Town around. Shamu, Naughty Boys and LET'S GET SOCIAL! - one of the biggest motown and soul Promoting the event are up-and-coming Cabin Colour are already confirmed, tributes in the UK right now. Expect Teesside promoters, ‘Special Brew with more acts to follow. It will be chart-toppers all the way from the 70’s to Promotions’ who brought Neville Staple colourful, chaotic and probably a little the 80’s in one of Middlesbrough’s most from The Specials down to the same bit crazy. If you can’t wait till Easter, anticipated and unique old-school events club just last month - an event that was The Studio plays host to one of the to date. highly praised in the local area. The Real North East’s most promising talents The Real Thing absolutely smashed the Thing event will be just as booming with on Friday 7th April, when local lad 70’s soul scene and rose to the top of the the passionate determination of both the James Leonard Hewitson performs UK charts multiple times. bands and promoters. with his band. Expect sing-a-long tunes They’ve been touring the UK for over If I was you I’d definitely think about tinged with bitter sweet observations 40 years now and are well-renowned for getting an advanced ticket for £20.00 (plus on 21st century life and living. With putting on an entertaining and enthralling booking fee), as at the time of writing the a friendly welcome guaranteed and live show - and their Middlesbrough date event is already half sold-out. Nobody cheap drinks prices, it’s time to ditch ‘MvC Live Sessions and Signed Memorabilia Auctions fund will be no different. wants to run the risk of missing out on the chocolate eggs and head down to FOLLOW US TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE state of the art cancer equipment/initiatives into the NHS It will be a night of euphoric sing-songs what could be Teesside’s biggest soul The Studio to enjoy this year’s Easter and vital awareness campaigns’ NORTH EAST MUSIC SCENE! WWW.NEVOLUME.CO.UK and good vibes; well suited for veterans event this year. Uprising. Published monthly by NE Volume. Printed by JAK HQ Limited (www.jakinc.uk) For ticket information please head to www.musicvcancer.com of the 70’s and 80’s music scene looking Tickets can be bought now at the Unit 4 Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY. [email protected] Longlands Club or at seetickets.com. Facebook.com/thestudiohartlepool. For more information please contact [email protected] @musicvcancer | /musicvcancer for a nostalgia kick.

4 5 NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS

40TH ANNIVERSARY GIG: GIG PREVIEW: ANGELIC ANDY UPSTARTS JONES AT INDEPENDENT, AT THE LOOKING GLASS, SUNDERLAND STOCKTON Written by Tyler Marriott Written by Jake Brown Photography by Adam Parkin Photography by John Balloten Born in the North of England, Andy has With the world seemingly in political been highly impressing audiences all uproar is this the perfect time for a over the UK and beyond with his unique rowdy, politically-charged punk band to brand of incredible musicianship and take to the stage? Well if you think the passionately observed acoustic songs. answer is yes then you’re in luck. Take the originality of Duke Special, the Come Friday 14th April, legendary old fashioned cheekiness and wit of South Shields punk heroes Angelic GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: George Formby, the melody of old music Upstarts will take to the stage at hall, the Flamenco of Spain, a fabulous and Independent in Sunderland as part of breathtaking vocal range and dress it all their 40th anniversary tour, in what up in a sharp suit and flat cap and you promises to be a special evening. THE SPEAR OF have the inimitable, Andy Jones. Through a The Upstarts were founded in the succession of critically-acclaimed albums, late 1970s in the North East by local including debut record ‘The Road To lad, Thomas ‘Mensi’ Mensworth. NIGHTINGALES Santiago,’ the singer-songwriter has been Somewhat cult heroes in punk, they DESTINY + BLUE ORCHIDS on a mission to refine his sound into are widely regarded as pioneers of the AT GEORGIAN THEATRE, something that is original, and is Andy Oi! punk sub-genre. They achieved + YEAR OF BIRDS Jones. He derives all his inspiration from great support in the punk scene with STOCKTON something we have all felt or, at least, their anti-fascist stance and socialist AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL known the pain of - love. Andy really working class beliefs, and created songs shows true emotion when performing, Written by Thomas Anderson that resonated with their young, feisty CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH and because of this he’s certain to pull audience helping them to build up a Photography by Adam Parkin Written by Rebecca Schott on your heartstrings. Though Jones large following. Renowned track, ‘The Iconic punk rock veterans, Spear of Destiny uses Spanish cities as the crucial core Murder of Liddle Towers’ - regarding Down by the Jetty and Big Figure playing various festivals. The Mancunian will be invading the Georgian Theatre on centre for his live performances and the controversial death of Tyneside man Promotions present a night of post- post-punk legends, Blue Orchids will also Thursday 27th April in their first Stockton lyrics, he has, in-fact, performed in and Liddle Towers at the hands of the police punk at the Westgarth Social Club in be lending their distinctively eerie and yet tour date since 2014. And it couldn’t have around the cities of Spain, gaining the - was named in Mojo magazine’s list of Middlesbrough this month. Two leading upbeat musical talents to the lineup. The come at a better time; with the theatre only crucial knowledge and feel of a place the best punk songs of all time. The bands from the alternative, post-punk band were on hiatus until 2012 but they just re-opening it is bound to be a glorious a mighty musical team of punk-era legends, that his music desires. As a seasoned live Upstarts’ legacy and influence has lived movement, The Nightingales and Blue first came onto the punk scene in the comeback. Armed with such important as well as professional composer Steve Allan performer, a veteran when it comes to on in new artists and they continue to Orchids, are due to play at the event 1980s when they released their double post-punk hits as ‘Never Take Me Alive’, Jones covering on keys. For the Stockton the stage, Andy has graced the limelight inspire bands and artists four decades with support from the local garage A-side, ‘The Flood’ and ‘Disney Boys’. The it is very easy to see why the band have show, the band will be pulling songs from with many great artists and musicians after their emergence. For example, lo-fi band, Year of Birds. Back in 1979, the band brought out their latest album, ‘The produced such a cult-like following over the their entire three decades of discography: alike treading the same boards as artists in 2009 punk and Upstarts fan Jamie Nightingales were formed in Birmingham Once and Future Thing’ last year and have years. The band was put together back in with a variety of fan favourites sure to be on as diverse as Duke special, Vin Garbutt, T sampled vocals from their Angelic and released their debut single ‘Idiot continued to record and tour since then. 1983 after frontman Kirk Brandon left post- show such as ‘Wheel’, ‘Liberator’, ‘The Last The Lightning Seeds, The Human League, Upstarts Live album. Strength’ in 1981. The band established Middlesbrough-based alternative band, Year punk outfit Theatre Of Hate, and newly Man Standing’ and of course a selection of and more recently, Jake Bugg. However, he Whilst many punk bands had their time their distorted post-punk sound from the of Birds will also be playing a supporting set created Spear Of Destiny smashed the tracks from their latest record, ‘31’. Kirk has achieved his first taste of music in the art in the sunshine and quickly fizzled out, start of their career. Despite splitting up on the night. punk scene throughout the 80’s - appearing already sold out his very own fan festival of creating music for radio and TV, which Angelic Upstarts continue to excite in the late 1980s, The Nightingales came Tickets are priced at £11.00 in advance and on a range of iconic television shows ‘Westworld’ this year, so this tour will be allowed him to expand his creativity to and thrill audiences up and down the back onto the music scene in the early can be bought at seetickets.com, or they’re such as Top Of The Pops. The charismatic another big one. If you do get yourself just about suit everyone’s taste. country. It’s safe to say they haven’t lost 2000s and their ability to create powerful, £13.00 on the door. This incredible night frontman even proclaimed them as: “the down to the newly renovated venue this Held at the rather quaint the Looking any of their fire. gritty music has not faltered. Since their celebrating alternative music in a great local best rock band in the world”. month expect a great turnout and an epic Glass in Stockton-on-Tees, an evening Tickets, priced at £10.00 (plus reformation, the group have released venue starts at 7:00pm on Sunday 30th Kirk has been leading Spear Of Destiny performance. with Andy Jones on Wednesday 5th April booking fee), are available from eight albums, including two live, and have April. Under 16s must be accompanied by for over 30 years now and definitely has Tickets, priced at £13.50 in advance, are will see a Northern lad show what he’s independentsunderland.com. toured Europe and the USA as well as an adult. experience on his side. On the night expect available from teesmusicalliance.org.uk. made of. And, it’s free entry.

6 7 prince regent st. stockton-on-tees www.kubar.co.uk

Bank Holiday Saturday 1st April Sunday May 28th The Smiths Ltd Kings of Lyon Amazing Smiths tribute No1 Kings of Leon Tribute

Easter Sunday Special: Saturday 10th June Hip Hop Hooray The Who Vs The Jam 8 piece band, specialising in Hip Hop Double tribute night

Bank Holiday Sunday 30th April Sunday 27th August Kazabian Antarctic Monkeys No1 Kasabian tribute official Arctic Monkeys tribute

Saturday 13th May Saturday 7th October The Clashed The Fillers A live tribute to The Clash No1 Official Killers Tribute Band NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS

ANNOUNCEMENT: ALBUM LAUNCH GIG: CLEVELAND THE BAND BAY, FOR DISEASE EAGLESCLIFFE LAUNCHES CONTROL & NEW MUSIC NIGHT Written by Jake Carr Smith PREVENTION For those in the Stockton area looking AT JUMPIN’ JACKS, for some live music on a Saturday night throughout April, and the coming NEWCASTLE months, be sure to head to The Written by Rebecca Schott Cleveland Bay in Eaglescliffe as they Photography by Jo Barrop launch their new night,‘Saturday Night Speakeasy’. Sitting alongside popular To celebrate the release of their second nights ‘Blues at the Bay’ and ‘Jazz at the GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: album, ‘Human Versus Devil’ The Band Bay,’ which are set to play host to acts for Disease Control and Prevention are such as Two Blue, Sugar B’s and Mojo holding a launch party at Jumpin’ Jacks in Roller in the coming weeks, the new THE GALILEO 7 Newcastle this month. Throughout their GREG RUSSELL career, the band have received praise night showcases even more of the area’s top local talent. AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL from Tommy Kessler (Blondie guitarist) As owner Peter Rafferty emphasises: after they covered a Blondie song in “This new night will give us the CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH & CIARAN their own style and have received both opportunity to feature bands and national and international airplay in music that don’t fit into our regular Written by Adam Hutchinson the US and across Europe. Their first Blues and Jazz themed nights.” And The Galileo 7 is the latest brain child ALGAR self-titled album was released in 2014 this is most certainly the case as the of former Prisoners and The Solarflares and showcases the group’s ability to Saturday speakeasy’s April 1st showing frontman, Allan Crockford. AT ARC, STOCKTON construct eerie punk tracks, such as is set to feature Teesside-based sleaze The duo have worked their fair share on ‘Pert Plastic’ and ‘April of the Fool’, The bands’ charming DIY ethic and Written by Thomas Anderson rockers, Blood Moon Bandits. They’re garage rock sound combine to give the folk circuit now, and the boys have but also upbeat songs like ‘Words on a Receipt’ and their single ‘11:59’ that a band who are fresh off the back them a platform in which they have the Up-and-coming folk prodigies, Greg rightly made a name for themselves are guaranteed to get you dancing at of advancing to the next round of opportunity to tour their acclaimed Russell and Ciaran Algar will be playing after headlining such venues as the Jumpin’ Jacks this month. Since their Bloodstock Open Air Festivals ‘Metal back catalogue. the ARC in Stockton on Friday 7th Clonter Opera Theatre and festivals debut album and some singles in 2015, to the Masses’ competition, and are The four-piece released their debut In 2008 the band re-united - performing April for what is a highly-anticipated gig. such as The Headland Folk Festival. After they released two heavy punk singles soon to be releasing their debut music ‘Are We Having Fun Yet?’ in 2010 to all songs they became famed for in the Armed with an array of string meeting six years ago, Gregg and Ciaran last year, ‘Heavy Stone’ and ‘Caution video. This promises to be a great great acclaim with its 70s punk vibe; region - and 9 years on they’re back instruments, the talented folk duo will are now one of the most sought-after Anxiety Attack’, and are back this year night with a band who are moving in and the 14-song body of work gained supporting The Galileo 7 to showcase wow Stockton in a special live night. bookings on the UK folk scene. with their new release. Support for this a positive direction. Moving through the respect of music fans across the their classic sound. The two folk singers from Cheshire This show will be their first ever event comes from Cherry B, Mechanical the month we see a stark difference UK where they have continued to tour. The gig, which takes place at the hypnotize their audiences with a venture into Teesside as they stop off in Mouse Organ and Peesh from Logoz. in acts - highlighting the eclecticism of Since their debut, they have released Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough smooth blend of soothing country-like the North East during their 2017 tour. The Band for Disease Control and the night as a whole - as the 15th sees two further albums which have on Saturday 8th April, is set to be a one ballads and talented instrumentation. It’s a highly-anticipated tour that will see Prevention have also promised a CD Platinum bring their vast arsenal of 60’s cemented them as one of the most to bring together past rockers, punks They’re two-time winners of the BBC the duo headlining events all over the copy of the album for everyone who and 70’s covers, including playing hits exciting acts to have been established and mods around the region in one Radio Two awards, as well as being UK, from Penzance to Sheffield, leaving attends and, if that isn’t a good enough from acts such as The Rolling Stones, in the punk and grunge scene. Exuding long-awaited event. nominees for the Best Duo in 2015, so no stone unturned. reason to come on the night, then I Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly. The with their trademark punk energy, this Both bands are famed in the region are ones to look out for. Let’s give them a big warm welcome don’t know what is? Not forgetting that Big Muddy Jazz and Blues band bring has lead to them putting on some of for expressing themselves on stage Their latest album, ‘The Silent Majority’ when they arrive in Stockton as it’s the band, as well as the support groups, their boisterous sound to the Bay on the most exciting punk performances and exuding raw energy with their was highly regarded in the music press going to be something special. are doing great things for the North East the 22nd of April, and moving into May of recent years. passionate lyricism delivered with a and coincidently their latest live shows This event already looks like it will punk and alternative scene. The album Samantha Holden and her band pay a Supporting the Galileo 7 on their tour harsh backbeat. incorporate a number of tracks from be well-attended, so we suggest launch starts at 7:30pm on Saturday visit on the 22nd to put their own spin is Three Strawberry Mynde who revive Tickets, priced at £8.00 in advance the album. buying your tickets now to avoid 29th April at Jumpin’ Jacks in Newcastle. on an array of classic hits. a classic mod sound. Forming in 1997, (plus booking fee), are available from However, on the night expect a range disappointment. Tickets, priced at £10.00 Tickets are priced at £5.50 and can be So support live music and pay the they started recording garage songs seetickets.com and wegottickets.com. of melodies from all four of their studio (plus booking fee), are available from bought from seetickets.com. The event is Cleveland Bay a visit! in 1998 and toured the North East albums. arconline.co.uk. extensively before splitting shortly after. over 14s only.

10 11 NE VOLUME NEWS

GIG PREVIEW: WIRE AT GEORGIAN THEATRE, STOCKTON Written by Jake Carr Smith Having recently reopened following a £1.4M revamp, the Georgian Theatre in Stockton is set to host a vast array of exciting artists over the coming months. Amongst their busy schedule, the influential post punk/art-rock band Wire touch down from a string of dates in the US which includes a headline performance at DRILL festival in LA,to play for the people of Stockton on Thursday 20th April, before heading off to perform in all parts of the UK and Europe. GIG PREVIEW: With a career spanning more than 40 years, London-based Wire bring their sizeable back catalogue (16 albums to date) to display an eclectic mix of LAURENCE styles - a formula which was earned them their reputation as a legendary and well-respected act in their scene. Having played with an influence on JONES megastars including R.E.M, Manic Street Preachers and The Cure - as AT THE CLUNY, NEWCASTLE well as more recent indie favourites Written by Adam Hutchinson Franz Ferdinand and Bloc Party - it Photography by Julian Ro Di Fotografia becomes apparent that this is a major coup for the promoters and Laurence Jones is a young man with a vast the revamped venue and lays down future ahead of him. The singer-songwriter a statement of the quality of acts the has managed to put his own twist on Georgian Theatre will play host to in blues rock with passionate lyricism and the near future. vocals to encompass a genre pushed out With a line up consisting of 75% of the limelight in recent times. Laurence past decade. In summer 2014, Laurence original members, the band have revives the sound once made popular by took on a Blues Caravan tour of 10 stayed true to what they believe in Clapton and Stevie Ray with great success, European countries which saw his songs and continue to release albums of managing to tour the country with his grow into something more than the simple unique and interesting music which notably unique sound. album tracks they started out as - they challenges the listener. From their Born just outside of Liverpool, the artist soon became part of many people’s lives debut offering ‘Pink Flag’, (an album has been playing guitar from the age of 7 around the world. This year sees Laurence which ranked on Rolling Stone which led to his interest in the freedom return to the UK touring circuit with magazines 500 greatest albums of all of improvisation in blues music. With a a series of shows around the country time), to the most recent release’ growing interest in the blues genre, he including Newcastle’s The Cluny on April Silver/Lead’,Wire have developed continued to play music, releasing his 29th. There is no doubting that, although a formula which maintains their critically-acclaimed debut album ‘Thunder Laurence has been releasing music for the recognisable musical stamp whilst in the Sky’ in 2012. Following the success past 5 years, the young Liverpudlian has a allowing every release to express of this, he has since released four other whole vista of opportunities ahead of him. itself in a way which has not become bodies of work which have all received His show at The Cluny is certainly one clichéd or predictable. recognition from the blues community. not to be missed by any Northern fans of Tickets are priced at £15.00 (plus Jones has toured continually; establishing blues rock. booking fee) and are available at himself as one of the most exciting blues Tickets, priced at £12.00 (plus booking fee), teesmusicalliance.org.uk. rock acts to have been produced in the are available from thecluny.com.

12 NE VOLUME ARTIST SPOTLIGHT NE VOLUME READERS’ THOUGHTS

“What could we be doing as fans and music supporters

‘Social media the hell out of it! to better promote local Flyers too just to keep it old school.’ James Temple, North Tyneside music?”

‘Nationally the North is ignored and we need a cultural makeover like Manchester or Liverpool.’ Angie Grieves, Newcastle

‘The venues need their own sound engineers who know the building and set it up properly. Usually all you get is loud drums and bass with little clarity and so it comes off as unprofessional in too many venues.’ ARTIST SPOTLIGHT Kris Burgess, Darlington ‘We need to get a major national festival “In today’s Instagram sponsored take of the perfect world, up here. We have Leeds, then nothing THE GOLDEN AGE until T in the Park. I feel like we get forgotten about and if we had one we this record might just prove to be the grittier antidote” would showcase local talent.’ OF NOTHING Ava Tindale, Teesside and the Cure have been common. Whilst ‘David Saw the Angels’ is theme’d around Written by Damian Robinson personal happiness seemed to be a long way the death of David Bowie and ‘When Photography by Gillie Hatton off for the band, acclaim seemed to follow We Die, There’s Nothing’ focuses on Happily ever after seems a phrase well them everywhere they went. Alzheimer’s. suited, if not slightly ironic, when used Now, the newly supplemented outfit (four- The singular focus for the album, both in alongside Teesside psychedelic goth rock piece) are set to push their musical vision into theme and in sound, and the pursuit of READERS’ THOUGHTS outfit, The Golden Age of Nothing. an even sharper focus through the release appropriate songs seem to have pushed WITH STEPHANIE THOMPSON The (then) trio’s well-respected 2014 debut of their new album ‘Monuments’, which further than before. Wilkinson admits that EP ‘The Green Room’ introduced the band will be released on April 21st. Promising numerous tracks were shelved during the ‘The popular venues are always strongly - gaining considerable critical press to be a concept album of sorts, Wilkinson recording process as they searched for going to get people in so it’s about and fan approval. Initial acclaim focused on has described ‘Monuments’ as being about perfection. However, and finally moving to supporting the smaller ones.’ Jess Taylor, Billingham the morbid, intense and personal lyrics of the theme of loss and what is left behind a conclusion of the ‘happily ever after’ intro, frontman Graeme Wilkinson which were once something has gone; essentially an this collective vision has produced a clearer examination of the material world and the direction for the band, one which aspires deemed as, amongst other things, similar ‘Start a band and get out there.’ to the sentiment and depth of Nick Cave confrontation of personal fears. In today’s to be a little less poppy, a little darker and ‘If you like an act, leave good David Thompson, Middlesbrough in their search for meaning in a world Instagram sponsored take of the perfect a little more meaningful. Speaking to NE feedback online.’ where it is not always obvious. Spanning a world, this record might just prove to be Volume, Wilkinson advised us that his Trish O Connor, North Yorkshire further two EPs and one long player (2015’s the grittier antidote. Pre-released tracks vision for the band was: “to try and pull the ‘Ghosts Destroy Us’), the band continued ‘Sleepwalkers’ and ‘When we Die There Is listener in a bit more”. To support the new Nothing’ both demonstrate the depth of album, the band have promised a couple of ‘Download the tracks their journey to the heart of darkness by and get your hand in your constructing an impressive body of work; thought, and sound, of the new material. video releases before its release. A few live pocket for the live gigs.’ the sum of which has helped to shape Though keen not to provide too much insight shows will also support the album’s release Jenny Hatch, Hartlepool the Golden Age’s identity as an intense, into each track, instead allowing the listener to with Wilkinson pledging that the band will ‘Turn up to gigs that you were thought-provoking, meaningful, creative find their own meaning, Wilkinson has shared play some of the newer tracks and, in the going to go to even if you don’t team. More recent musical releases have stories behind some of ‘Monuments’ tracks. spirit of their new focus, drop some of the feel like it on the night. There’s seen a shift in press attention and a focus These stories provide an interesting insight more poppier material. nothing worse than playing to into the broad interpretation of what ‘loss’ To keep up-to-date with The Golden Age empty rooms to make you want onto the (guitar-led) musical soundscapes to give up.’ produced by the band, which have been can be, and what it can mean, and challenge of Nothing please head to Facebook.com/ ‘It really just comes down to Jason Atkins-Scaife, Newcastle said to be moody, claustrophobic and the listener to investigate issues from different thegoldenageofnothing. getting off your backside and sentimental. Comparisons to Interpol perspectives. ‘Idiot Lament’ focuses on Brexit, going to gigs.’ Adele Brotton, Darlington

14 15 Groundup Music Presents SNARKY The North East’s most intimate Blues venue!

Blues At The Bay 31st March - DVD 7th April - Two Blue PUPPY 14th April - Alex Fawcett Band 21st April - Sugar B’s 28th April - Mojo Roller

Saturday Night Speakeasy european 1st April - Adrenaline & Blood Moon Bandits 15th April - Platinum tour2017 22nd April - Big Muddy Jazz & Blues Band 20th May - Samantha Holden Band

Plus HOUSE OF WATERS Jazz At The Bay 6th & 20th April - Tees Hot Club

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YOUNG SONGWRITERS Sun 25 June, 1-3pm, CUCKOO YOUNG 13-19 years FABLAB @ THE WORD Have you ever wanted to WRITERS write your own song but didn’t Saturdays 2-4pm, Ever wanted to create a 3D replica know how? of your favourite movie character, 12-19 years, during term NAtAsHA HAws - a successful jazzy wall art, or maybe you have time only singer-songwriter who has an idea you’d like to bring to life? supported the Futureheads, Jools Have you ever dreamed of being At our FabLab sessions we can Holland and more will help you a writer? Learn new skills and help you with just that! receive feedback in a creative discover your song writing style. and supportive atmosphere! See what’s on at www.theworduk.org supported by /worduk @theword_uk theword_uk NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER

CULTURE CORNER CULTURE CORNER Raindrops to Rainbows ‘HOPE’ Event for Maternal Mental Health Uncovering the Georgian Theatre’s Past: Stockton’s Secrets

the images you see at the event is convey 5th May, with live music from Twister, TMA are still piecing together the buildings John Poulson, who bribed government Photography by enaphotography.com Written by Thomas Anderson a very difficult set of feelings that sufferers The Unsound, Komparrison, plus history by reaching out to locals and digging officials, persuaded the local council to This May will see the UK’s first experience. The same words such as many more. In terms of Raindrops to It’s a big year for the Georgian Theatre. Not into museum archives. From the research flatten the whole of Green Dragon Yard Maternal Mental Health Awareness disconnection, despair, self-hate, guilt, gear Rainbow, it’s a voluntary organisation only have they just revamped the venue, but done already into the buildings history, it’s into a car park. Luckily a preservation week, coordinated by the Perinatal and also strangely happiness kept being that focuses on perinatal mental health. Tees Music Alliance has attracted a £37,000 obvious that there are many stories to tell, all order was placed in the area after the Mental Health Partnership - a small repeated. These emotions are what, with The Founder, Stephanie Addison, grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund for more fascinating than the next. community found out and the Georgian group of health professionals, charity the help of some brilliant subjects and suffered with postnatal depression after the buildings rich history. The Georgian theatre was built in 1766 and Theatre was saved. leaders, mental health campaigners creative input from Lauren Duncan of LD having her second child and found that The money, which is raised by National TMA first made it their home in 1993. Before These are just a few pieces of the puzzle. As and advocates with lived experience Design, I have tried to demonstrate in the there had been very little in the way Lottery players, will be used to fund a then, it was the Nebo Confectionery Factory the project progresses TMA hope to find of perinatal mental illness. The UK images you see exhibited. of support. Through sheer hard work project that aims to engage the public with which was Stockton’s biggest sweet business. out more about the buildings past. Maternal Mental Health Matters “Many thanks must go to Natalie and Albi and pure determination, Raindrops to the Georgian Theatre’s long-standing local Between 1920 and 1972, the factory Ivor Crowther, Head of HLF North East, campaign that the Partnership have been Donnelly, Emily Timofte and Jamie Hill and Rainbows was formed and now offers history. There will be a series of events produced Stockton’s most loved sweet the said: “Thanks to money raised by National planning will run during the first week of family for being wonderful patient models.” a number of peer-led support groups running throughout the year aiming to ‘Nebo Cream’, which was owned by a local Lottery players we’re pleased to support May 2017, as this coincides with World The event, which will be held at Edge Bar for maternal mental illnesses across showcase the Theatre’s past since it was family. The family swore to take the secret the Tees Music Alliance as it continues to Maternal Mental Day on Wednesday 3rd in Stockton-on-Tees, will have a range the North East, including Stockton and built 250 years ago. TMA are calling out recipe to the grave with them, so it was celebrate milestone anniversaries of its May. To celebrate this week, Raindrops of artwork on display from local artists Billingham. Having set up these weekly for locals who can shed some light on the thought that the Nebo Cream was lost own formation and of the historic building to Rainbows has joined forces with LD and photographers, ranging from images peer support groups, which are solely buildings heritage and share their memories forever. However, Alan Dursley, owner of it calls home. Design and EnA Photography to create to paintings, each providing an insight to focused on mothers and their mental of the Theatre’s previous ‘lives’. the Victorian Sweet Kitchen - a retro sweet “This project will delve into archives and a week-long art and music showcase. the thoughts, feelings and emotions on health, Raindrops to Rainbows have TMA Director, Paul Burns, explained the shop in Enterprise Arcade, Stockton - has people’s memories to ensure its history Ian Allcock of EnA Photography said: the journey of a perinatal mental illness recently launched a new joint project idea behind the project: “Our refurbishment uncovered the family’s secret. remains an integral part of its exciting “I first became aware of Raindrops to such as postnatal depression. The event named PopStart - a fathers mental has been planned for a few years now and Alan explained: “We set out on a conquest future.”There are still many untold stories Rainbows in 2016 when I was asked to opens on Monday 1st May, and will include health support group which focuses as part of the preparation work for the to try and make the sweet. We had no recipe, so TMA are reaching out to anyone who shoot a charity gig they had arranged. live music from Marie Marx, Charlotte on new dads with mental illnesses or renovation we began to re-organise boxes no method and I’d never tasted it. So I had to can provide them with any photos, videos I had no prior personal experience Grayson, Freeman, plus many more. During supporting partners through a mental and boxes of items that we’d collected over recruit 12 local people to taste test it. It took or personal memories of the building. The of PND (postnatal depression) but the week, Raindrops to Rainbows are illness. the years. It hit home that we’d captured just short of four months but we finally got project aims to bring the whole community had lost a friend to it who felt she providing free workshops; Creative Writing For more information on the services lots of moments in peoples’ lives and that it right.” The local shop launched the sweet together, with an initiative to re-create couldn’t continue her battle. When with Dr Natalie Scott, Creative Art with that Raindrops to Rainbows offer, instead of storing things away we should be last year in June under the name ‘Newbo’ and the theatre in Minecraft to engage a Steph Addison asked if I would shoot Claire Barratt (creator of the popular please visit their official website at: looking to preserve and display as much as it has since become a hit in Stockton High younger audience. The whole archive, images for the HOPE event I was both Claireabella range) and Songwriting with raindropstorainbows.co.uk or contact we could. Thinking further, we thought that Street. Alan will be linking up with TMA’s when completed, will also be preserved honoured and nervous. I have since Marie Marx. You can register for these free the team via email at there must be lots of people who might Lottery Heritage Project, in the form of digitally so that it can be put online as well discussed and researched PND in depth workshops by visiting their Facebook page [email protected]. have their own stories that they can share sweet-making workshops in the Theatre. as creating visual exhibitions within the to gain a deeper understanding. or directly from Eventbrite. with us – maybe they’ve seen a particular Another story uncovered was a political theatre. “What I ‘Hope’ I have done in shooting The closing event takes place on Friday band here or performed here themselves.” scandal in the 60’s in which corrupt architect

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REDCAR SKA FESTIVAL 2017

“it’s great to have him DJ for us”. The Saturday is to be a full CULTURE CORNER Written by Jake Brown day of performances from the best Ska talent in the UK today. The Word - Offering an Extensive Programme of Cultural Events in South Tyneside The Redcar Ska Festival returns this year for what promises There will be slots from bands such as The Hotknives - a Ska to be two days of Ska-filled fun. The festival, more commonly band formed in 1982 but still operating as active as ever today known as RedSka, started last year and is hosted by devoted - and UrangMatang- a Scottish five-piece who mix classics with their own original songs. Headlining on the Saturday The Word, National Centre for the digital sector. The Word also boasts a creativity, and show their profound Ska fan Paul Williams, who is the CEO of Specialized project, will be Reggae legends Dennis Alcapone and Winston Reedy, Written Word, is South Tyneside’s new FabLab – one of only approximately respect for everyone who plays a part along with Mark Simpson who volunteers to help bring the who will be joined by his band The Pressure Tenants. Paul is state-of-the-art cultural venue that ten in the UK – with laser cutters, 3D in their journey though the world of talent to Redcar for this special weekend. “Redcar is a town especially happy to have secured the performances of Reedy boasts a variety of exciting events, printers and vinyl cutters. Put simply, you literature. Together, they lift the lid that’s brimming with potential,” says Paul before adding: “Sun, and Alcapone: “They are massive Jamaican legends. They’re interactive activities and facilities can design something digitally using open on the real world of being a writer. sea and Ska always seems to work.” The first year saw Terry backed by the godfather of Ska, Laurel Aitken’s backing band for people of all ages to enjoy. Until source software and then you get the The angry letters from readers.The Hall, the legendary front man of Ska heroes The Specials, host The Pressure Tenants. It’s an honour to have them with us.” Tuesday 2nd May celebrate the career opportunity to physically make it. There backstage shenanigans.The nightmarish a special DJ set on the opening Friday night. The 2016 festival With Specials frontman Terry Hall appearing last year, this year and achievements of one of the most are a number of taster and introductory personal appearances, and of course, held at Redcar’s Coatham Memorial Hall showcased the best will feature another member of the Specials successful film directors in the world, sessions to the equipment as well as the the nutters. Oh God…the nutters! of local and national talent in the Ska in Roddy Byers who will also feature on the Sir Ridley Scott. This free exhibition workshops. This mucky, multimedia extravaganza, universe. The event raised thousands Saturday night with his band Roddy Radiation features a timeline of his life, movies The Word is also hosting its inaugural which culminates in the sweariest for a great cause in Specialized Project “REDCAR HAS TAKEN A and the Skabilly Rebels. Paul Williams, the and focusses on six of his most famous WRITE Festival! From 21-25 June you game show to ever grace a stage, – a charity that aims to improve the chief organizer of the festival, thinks the titles including Alien, Blade Runner, will be inspired by words alongside a host has already been a huge hit at the lives of teens and young adults with BATTERING RECENTLY, event is important to Redcar and Teesside in Thelma and Louise, Gladiator, Robin of award-winning writers for five days of Edinburgh International Book Festival, cancer through the universal power general to keep spirits up in what have been Hood and The Martian. Artefacts from unmissable events. There will be authors’ at Aye Write in Glasgow, at the of music. The event is sure to be a AND THIS EVENT hard times for the area: “This area has been the movies feature alongside purpose- talks, writing workshops, performances, Cheltenham Literary Festival and brilliant two days and a fun day out for GENERATES A BOOST IN so overlooked politically, economically and built replicas and costumes, movie clips songwriting, storytelling, and much more. at Bloody Scotland. Mark and Chris the old and young, Paul noted: “The socially. Redcar has taken a battering recently, and interactive activities, including a The line-up includes acclaimed writer and stand ready, willing and able to lower Friday night will be a warm up of great THE TOWN AND IN LOCAL and this event generates a boost in the town seven foot Alien. comedian Jason Cook who will return to the tone at similar events all over tunes but the Saturday will be high and in local businesses.” Or why not donate a lost word at the his South Tyneside roots for a fascinating the world. As part of WRITE Festival energy. It’ll be a great feel-good vibe BUSINESSES” A two-day Ska extravaganza jam packed with Lost Dialects exhibition? Language and and interactive Q&A session. The Word is running a fantastic True whilst doing some good for others in local and national talent with a few legends words evolve but this exhibition looks Budding writers and comedians will be Stories competition which involves you the process.” of the genre chucked in for good measure is exactly what to reignite an interest and use of words inspired by Jason as he delves into how submitting a 500-word true story to The organisers are keen to replicate their fundraising efforts Redcar needs to chase away the gloomy atmosphere brought that were long used in local shipyards, he got into comedy and everything you writer, Michael Chaplin. All submissions again this year. The Friday night, as it was last year, will feature on by a tough 2016 for the locals. And as Redcar hopes to mines and street games. Be sure to try need to know about his career so far, will be read with 10 people invited multiple DJ sets including one from Bristol’s Ska Train to recover from the setback of the SSI closure Paul wants his out the interactive activities. including the hit sitcom Hebburn. The to a seminar to receive feedback and get you in the mood for two days of skanking and nutty festival to play an important role in the areas resurgence: “I The Word celebrates the written word Customs House Executive Director, Ray advice to shape and polish each story. dancing. The special DJ set this year will come from none want to continue bringing good music to a wonderful area”. in all forms and this includes coding. Spenser MBE will be hosting the Q&A It promises to be a uniquely valuable other than Andrew Shim - a self-confessed Ska nut and star With his perfect mix of “sun, sea and ska”, the future looks ‘Coding is the New Word’ week takes session where he will ask the questions learning experience. of much loved film and TV drama, This Is England. The film bright for the festival. Redska takes place on Friday 21st and place from Wednesday 5th April and you all want to know the answer to. To view The Word’s extensive that celebrated the 1980s heyday of Ska has become a cult Saturday 22nd April. Tickets for Friday, Saturday, or both days boasts a range of free workshops Award-winning duo Mark Billingham and programme of events or to book classic, especially in the Ska community, and the appearance are available now from wegottickets.com/f/10616. for people of all ages interested in Chris Brookmyre will come together tickets visit www.theworduk.org. of Shim will surely bring a smile to faces of many a Ska learning more about a career in the to celebrate the capricious spirit of veteran. “Andrew’s a busy busy man,” says Paul before adding:

20 21 NE VOLUME FEATURES NE VOLUME FEATURES

HIT THE NORTH FESTIVAL RECORD STORE DAY 2017

Liverpool Sound City and Live at Leeds flourish and now Not all record stores are beaming with positives, though. Written by Adam Hutchinson Written by Callum Thornhill it’s time for Newcastle to have its very own inner city Martin Yule, manager of Hot Rats, Sunderland stresses the SSD Concerts’ Steve and Paul Davis, Keith Armstrong festival”. However, this isn’t the first time the region has Record Store Day in the UK will take place on Saturday 22nd concern that: “There are problems with it. Record companies of Soul Kitchen Music and Management and Katherine seen a festival try to offer rising and established acts; in April this year and it will once again see fans flock to their tend to be pricing things too high. They tend to bring out too Monaco of Famous 4:15 have all worked together previous years festivals such as Down To The Woods have local stores to pick up limited edition releases. Everything much stuff now. I think they brought out around 700 items to create a North East day festival flourishing with offered a similar display of talent with no great success, from limited edition singles and live versions of iconic last year, which is far too much for small independent shops established artists and rising Northern talent. Hosted yet the response to Hit The North’s line-up has been tracks to remastered copies of classic albums and best-of- making sure they have a copy of each.“But yeah! It is a really inside 14 of the region’s greatest venues, Hit The North nothing short of remarkable and a true testament to the compilations will be available on the day. With many record good thing and vinyl is selling better than ever - especially since is set to have 116 acts play over one day in the heart of connection between local artists and their regional fans. collectors in the region, the independent stores around the I opened this shop in about 1993. I am selling more now than Newcastle City Centre. The exciting day offers intimate This year’s festival announcements have certainly been North East are gearing themselves up for what is set to be a I ever sold before, which is bizarre. No one expected that to shows at venues such as The Boilershop and Think ones receiving mixed reviews amongst regular festival- hectic day and a busy post-event aftermath. Callum Thornhill happen.” Richie Lattimore, owner of RPM Music in Newcastle, Tank?, which is in complete contrast to the 02 Academy goers, with the Reading and Leeds line up being perceived spoke to some of those taking part in Record Store Day also sees the positives and negatives of Record Store Day, but so there’s really something for as lacking by fans and juxtaposing this 2017 about how they feel about the one day celebration. leans towards the positives, explaining: “We have done it every everyone. The event boasts a the phenomenal TRNSMT billing, but Hit Stockton-on-Tees’ Sound It Out year since it started. A lot of shops like us line-up challenging small festivals The North seems to have only received Records has been on Yarm Street for wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Record Store around the nation with previous “WE’VE SEEN EVENTS gratification from music fans around the almost twenty years, and see Record Day. I can see where the people who criticise NME cover stars Slaves topping LIKE LIVERPOOL SOUND region. The event is highly anticipated to Store Day as a positive. Tom Butchart “RECORD STORE DAY it are coming from in certain angles, but you the stellar list of acts. Alongside be one the greatest day festivals of this said: “I suppose we are for it, really. We TAKES PLACE ON have to see the positives as well. It gets loads Slaves at the top of the bill are CITY AND LIVE AT LEEDS year alongside the likes of Live At Leeds have been in support of it since we of people coming to the shop and it makes DMA’s, The Hunna, Nothing But who share a similar line-up. There is no got involved with Record Store Day SATURDAY 22ND APRIL people aware of independent shops. When Thieves and award-winning grime FLOURISH AND NOW IT’S doubting the one element that will allow eight years ago. The benefits of Record it started, it was an incredibly tough time for artist, Lethal Bizzle. Not only TIME FOR NEWCASTLE the festival to live up to the heights it is Store Day are advertising - we have THIS YEAR AND IT shops like ourselves. It is down to shops to does Hit The North offer fans the perceived to is the people of the North lots of people that come who did not WILL ONCE AGAIN SEE make it what it is. Some shops abuse it a little opportunity to see some of the TO HAVE ITS VERY OWN East. In the region there is a strong even know we were here and we have bit and use it to make money. It is a day to recent success stories of British community of local music lovers with a been here for almost 20 years. Since FANS FLOCK TO THEIR celebrate record shops for what they are. music, it also offers a platform for INNER CITY FESTIVAL” firm belief in supporting small artists from Record Store Day last year we have We have a great day - we have DJs, live music, an array of acts aspiring to follow around the region. In the past, the region had many people return and I think LOCAL STORES TO PICK giveaways, tombolas, cakes and it is a massive in the footsteps of those topping has allowed artists such as Maximo Park, they will come back time and time success. “The past three or four years have the line-up. The people behind the festival said: “We Whitesnake and Dire Straits to be thrusted into the again.” Al Palmer from Newcastle’s UP LIMITED EDITION been our busiest days ever and if people want book bands for most of the leading venues in the city limelight and Hit The North goes to give these acts a Beatdown Records is also a fan of the RELEASES” to get involved get in touch! We are always so we thought we’d take things one step further and larger platform to which they can be present themselves event, saying: “We are very much in the looking for more DJs and bands to come host a cross-city festival for the bands of tomorrow”. to the supportive North East public and become the for camp as it brings coverage from down on the day.” So, all in all, it seems that the These acts include The Pale White, The Night Café and next breakthrough act.Hit The North is set to take place media that wouldn’t normally give us any time. The Chronicle region benefits majorly from Record Store Day and, despite previous NE Volume Bands To Look Out For in 2017 on Friday 28th April in Newcastle City Centre and is tend to get involved - as do local radio. People feel included. the negatives, it is a successful celebration of both music and act, Plaza. The diverse line-up is set to unite lovers of certainly an event not to be missed by any music fans. “We always get a load of new regulars from the event who independent record stores. all genres encompassing acts from the world of hip Tickets for the day festival, priced at £32.50, are available came here for the first time, so that is nice. A year later you So please head on down to your local record store this hop, indie and grime. Talking about the festival, Steve from seetickets.com. More acts are set to be announced see faces of people you saw last year. There are loads of good Record Store Day and support independent businesses. Davis of SSD Concerts said: “We’ve seen events like very soon. releases, too. So, yeah! It is definitely a good thing.”

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FLEECETONBURY FESTIVAL 2017

left by last year’s festival. Music (super) enthusiasts Nev and Written by Damian Robinson Michelle, alongside team mate Geoff Thompson, have curated If you have similar opinions about live music as I do, I’d guess a festival made up of 38 of the best unsigned bands in the that you find the current state of the UK festival scene pretty country including headliners Dead Sea Skulls, Billy Bibby & the repulsive (?). Wry Smiles, and Tom Hingley. Just as important to the music No longer the leading example to the world, as it most is the experience each Fleecetonbury attendee feels with the certainly was for 20 years from the late 1980s, it’s a fair event - a point that Nev was clear to make when NE Volume comment to suggest that the UK festival circuit is now caught up with him: “What I can promise is that we’ll make saturated with overpriced, badly managed events which put sure that no bands overlap. It can be heartbreaking if you go glamping first, commerce second and music third. to a show and your two favourite bands play at the same time, If you’re looking for a place to take a selfie in your new so we’ll make sure that if someone buys a ticket for 38 bands, designer sunglasses then a festival is the place for you. If they’ll have the opportunity to see all 38 bands.” you’re looking for a place to check In an attempt to build on some of the out new bands, listen to their music successes from last year, Fleecetonbury 2017 and meet people who have an interest will also offer a stage specifically for acoustic and a passion for music, then perhaps “WE’LL MAKE SURE THAT music, with Nev keen to use the 90’s rave a festival is not the place for you. culture as inspiration: “After a big night out It’s not all doom and gloom though, IF SOMEONE BUYS A on the Saturday, the rave scene used to have and to paraphrase Mr Cohen, there TICKET FOR 38 BANDS, loads of chill out areas on the Sunday where are cracks in the darkness and there people could still listen to music but it would are places where light gets in. THEY’LL HAVE THE be a bit more relaxed. We’ll be setting up an Music lovers will always find great acoustic stage on the Sunday for the same places to hear great music. Of those OPPORTUNITY TO SEE reasons, and hopefully people can enjoy the great places Northallerton’s Fleece ALL 38 BANDS” bands and listen to good music.” Inn and the Town Hall is right up with Keen to promote every band, not just the the very best. Led by husband and headliners, the Fleece team are happy to wife team Nev and Michelle Craggs, the Fleece and the Town provide an opportunity and a platform for new and unsigned Hall have become two of THE places to play in the North bands. It’s an opportunity that is well received by the bands East, particularly for unsigned, up-and-coming bands. and music fans alike. At last year’s festival NE Volume observed To build on its increasing following, last year saw the that every band playing each day hung around for the full day, Fleece create the ‘Fleecetonbury’ Festival - a two-day chatting with festival goers and supporting all of the other event showcasing the very best unsigned bands in the UK. bands on the bill. Headlined by the Sherlocks and the Spitfires, the event Fleecetonbury is one of those rare festivals that makes music proved so successful with bands and fans alike that the lovers, rather than glampers or t-shirt sellers, happy. See you owners of the Fleece decided to bring it back again this year there. Fleecetonbury Festival takes place between Fri 14th – - only this time bigger and better. Sun 16th April. Tickets, priced at £24.75 for Friday only and Adding one more day to its duration, Fleecetonbury 2017 Saturday only, or £37.80 for the full weekend, are available plans to be an even stronger event than the benchmark from seetickets.com.

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STOCKTON CALLING 2017 THE PURNELLS’ FAREWELL GIG

been full of passionate people working together to support Written by Martin Sharman ‘Walkaway’. John Power’s cracked vocal is wearing its age Written by Thomas Anderson beautifully, with its gentle rasp more Rod Stewart-like every new music, and we’ve been very blessed to be a part of You don’t need the observational skills of a sparrowhawk year. To my eyes, ARC’s undercard is the strongest on offer Some very sad news comes from Stockton this month, that.” to notice the urban festival is now as much of a thing as - I’d be happy installing myself at the side of the stage with a as beloved indie blues rockers The Purnells hang up their The Georgian gig on Saturday 29h April commemorates the festival festival, with conurbations up and down the pint or two and not moving all day. Supporting Cast are Neon instruments in a final send-off gig at The Georgian Theatre. a commendable nine years of The Purnells. They will be country deciding to hold their own multi-venue shindig. Waltz, bringing new meaning to the word “Northerner”, as This comes after a nearly a decade of touring from the playing alongside female-fronted alternate pop outfit Spearheaded by old hands such as Brighton’s Great Escape, they travel all the way down from John O’Groats to deliver theatrical and energetic four-piece. Serinette, as well as six-piece Middlesbrough rock band Be Liverpool Sound City, and Live At Leeds, it didn’t take long their arch, theatrical rock. Chris Helme, otherwise known The Stockton-born band started like any other important, Quiet Shout Loud - a band that supported The Purnells before those in the region began to sit up and grab a bit of as The Seahorses’ frontman, is a superb troubadour whose historical matter - over a few pints in the local pub. Back at their first ever gig. This isn’t the first time that they’ll be the action for themselves. Now in its eighth year, Stockton evocative voice and material is reminiscent of ‘50s balladeers in 2007, frontman and harmonica looney Stu Blackburn blowing the roof off Stockton’s biggest venue. After wowing Calling has steadily increased the pulling power of its bill - whilst still remaining contemporary. Further attractions met up with their drummer, Ricky. They’d been in a band their home town at the Stockton Weekender in 2013, the transforming from a Royston Vasey-esque bunch of locals in include reverb enthusiasts Cape Cub, hair enthusiasts Glass together 10 years previously and over a few drinks boys had a memorable album launch night at The Georgian 2010 to being topped by household Caves, and enthusiasm enthusiasts, Abel decided to start up something new. in 2014. They gained local press exposure too for their names here in 2017. Let’s get the big Raise The Cain. An eclectic lineup is to be Since their birth, The Purnells have latest release ‘Black Dog Laughing’ (2015) - guns out of the way first. Milburn found at Edge - if any band were to win the performed at countless venues a tightly-produced and unique record with “THE GREAT THING dramatic vocals and bluesy breakdowns. headline KU Bar, bringing their South fictitious award for best-looking, hardest- all over the North East and have “TEESSIDE’S SCENE HAS Yorkshire scalliness out of retirement ABOUT URBAN FESTIVALS working and weirdest-sounding in the become somewhat of a cult hit in There may be new projects on the horizon, to the apparent delight of many a region, Velvoir would be a shoo-in. Cattle & the local scene - they’re renowned ALWAYS BEEN FULL OF and all members will continue working as punter. Perhaps more well known IS, YOU DON’T HAVE TO Cane headline the Georgian Theatre - their for their energetic and flamboyant performers. However, the band have made it for catalysing the noughties Sheffield melding of Americana and folk continues to live performance. “We like to create PASSIONATE PEOPLE clear that as of April, The Purnells will be no TREK MILES BETWEEN more. Stu left us with some strong parting scene than their actual music, clearly beguile, and each year the band spread their our own strangeness at gigs. We find WORKING TOGETHER TO there is massive pent-up demand STAGES” wings a little further. Kingsley Chapman’s the weirder we act the more the words: “Do whatever music you do with for a Milburn re-run, for which the latest project The Murder delivers romantic audience comes along for the ride. SUPPORT NEW MUSIC” passion and throw yourself out there, and boys are quite happy to cater. The artifice, modest threat, and Morrissey-esque I love the whole performance of a get on with people. Support other bands ludicrous and derivative The Shimmer Band support; notable aspiration; Teessiders Mouses are noisy in the vein of 90s US live show, especially since introducing and promoters as much as you can - we’re selections from the KU undercard are Freak, optimistically garage, and Crows (there’s an animal connection to this stage props and masks. I love how it can all in the same boat and there are some taglined a “one-man Nirvana” (wasn’t that Kurt Cobain?), and that I just can’t put my finger on) are gothic and devastating. unsettle some people,” explains frontman, Stu. As many brilliant people out there. The Georgian gig is going to be a The Pale White, who know their way around a decent bit of We’ve only gone through half the bands on half the stages and may remember, The Purnells performed at Stockton real walk down memory lane, full of the madness we enjoy! psychedelic indie. already I want to be in three or four different places at once. Calling last year and have played countless iconic shows The night’s going to be emotional for us, but fun, and we Battling for the climax of one’s evening at ARC are everlasting The great thing about urban festivals is, you don’t have to trek in venues all across the North East and beyond - playing hope to pack the Georgian and go out in style. Thank you Scousers, Cast. Springing from the ashes of The La’s back in miles between stages, or indeed brave oceans of mud, so it’s alongside bands such as Mouses, The Broken Broadcast, for listening and supporting us over the years, and I hope the early ‘90s, over 20 years later there’s clearly great demand easy to catch the bands that you want to see. Or, pick a venue Cellar Door, and The Bluetones just to name a few. Stu you can all make it for one more party!” from a whole new generation wanting to experience the at random, pull up a stool and make yourself comfortable. Reminisced: “Every gig is memorable. We’ve played loads So are you ready for a night of nostalgia? Then head to cheerful innocence of pre-Blair Britain, and what better to Wherever you choose, it’s going to be one heck of a ride. of amazing venues and festivals with some fantastic bands, the Georgian Theatre, Stockton on Saturday 29th April. soundtrack such a noble desire than Cast’s cheery ditties? For further information regarding the full venue and band line- so every gig has meant something. For me, supporting Tickets, priced at £6.00 in advance (plus booking fee), There’s a new album on the way this year, but there’s no up please head to stocktoncalling.co.uk, where you can also The Bluetones was a highlight, but as a band I think we’ve are available now from the Green Dragon Studios and doubt that the audience will be wetting themselves in pick up your tickets (at time of writing). always loved a good festival. “The North East music scene teesmusicalliance.org.uk. Tickets OTD are priced at £8.00. anticipation of such jangly pop classics as ‘Finetime’ and is still such an exciting place. Teesside’s scene has always

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Cape Cub to Headline the Start of our 2nd Anniversary Celebrations! As part of our 2nd anniversary To you, personally, what’s the best thing music has always had a subtle cinematic celebrations, Teesside band Cape Cub have about playing live? vein to it too. kindly offered to put on a special stripped- Feeling the songs come to life and having back show at the Westgarth Social Club people sing the words back. It’s as simple as What can gig-goers expect from your “IT’LL BE THE FIRST TIME in Middlesbrough for you fantastic music that, and nothing comes close. intimate gig in the renowned Westgarth lovers, and NE Volume readers, so our Social Club? Editor Lee Allcock caught up with Cape What’s your favourite thing about playing The Westgarth gig is going to be really fun Cub frontman, Chad Male to speak about shows in the region you were brought for us as it’ll be the first time that we’ve THAT WE’VE PLAYED A the gig, Teesside, and new music. up in? played a proper stripped-back acoustic Teesside has had to face a fair share of show. It’s going to be intimate, a little bit Having formed just three years ago you’ve adversity. Whether it’s been job losses, scary and fun all at the same time. No already managed to gain airplay on the likes unemployment, the tired clichés (see projections, no confetti… it’s going to be of Radio One, so how does that feel? Kingsley Chapman’s latest exhibition as it’s simple and all about the songs. I can’t wait. PROPER STRIPPED-BACK It feels great to have had the support of brilliant) and the general two fingers from Radio One, definitely. It’s the kind of thing the national press; we’ve tended to be first You’ve played the Westgarth before to a I thought about when I was 14, starting in the firing line for one reason or another. sell-out crowd...what was that like? my first band, and listening to Zane Lowe Yet there is so much cool stuff going on, It was awesome. It was our first ever sell- ACOUSTIC SHOW” in the car. I’ve got to say it was never the and I’m super inspired right now to be out show and in front of a home crowd ‘be all and end all’ though as the goal has from here. So to get back to your question, and we had a beautiful night. always been to keep doing this at the best my favourite thing about playing shows in level I/we possibly can, and if anything like the region I was brought up in absolutely I hear you’re also going to be adding some Radio One happens, then it’s just a nice has to be the simplicity of getting everyone fairy lights to the stage for the occasion... validation that things are headed in the in one place to share that same moment. Yeah, fairy lights and maybe something else right direction. And in that moment everything outside of - you’ll have to see. those four walls ceases to exist. And for In a previous interview with ourselves you 45 minutes no one can touch us. Not the And finally, what do you have planned for mentioned that you only really expected band, not the audience. It’s awesome and the remainder of 2017? your friends to turn up to your gigs...so makes me proud of our region and the New music is currently in the mixing stage how does it feel to be playing to strangers people in it. - we’re very close, and that’s all I’m saying right across the UK? for now. It’s an insane feeling. It’s one thing playing at Marske is a beautiful part of Teesside...has home in front of everyone you know, but the scenery had much impact, do you think, Cape Cub, with support from Teesside to then go to a city on the other side of on your lyrics? artist Samantha Durnan, will play the the country and see just as many people It’s had a big impact, yeah. There’s a Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough turn up and be into what you’re doing,it’s vastness on that coastline, a coldness, on Friday 12th May as part of our 2nd the biggest buzz you could imagine. beauty, and a sense of space that I’ve always anniversary celebrations. Tickets are just tried to capture in the music. That sense £5.00 (plus booking fee) and can be found of geographical and physical isolation is be searching ‘Cape Cub’ on seetickets.com. nothing but inspiring. As a result of this, the

Photography by Matthew Lawson

28 29 plUS GUESTS

SAT 24 JUNE DALBY FOREST NR PICKERING, N YORKS

TICKETS: 03000 680400 BUY ONLINE: FORESTRY.GOV.UK/MUSIC INFO: ElbOw.CO.UK NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Jodie Canwell

EVE CONWAY THE RADIO SET “You never know what’s going to come “To achieve authenticity you need to write running out of your little mind” about what you know and from the heart” Darlington Artist, Eve Conway is set to bring out her new Recording an EP at Bella Union, acquiring a number of BBC single ‘Hunger’ on Saturday 15th April so Rebecca Schott Introducing radio plays, and gaining 1200 Youtube views in a short caught up with her to find out more. space of time, North East band The Radio Set are creating a buzz. SAMANTHA DURNAN Drummer Russ Charnock chats exclusively to Lee Allcock ahead of What’s your favourite thing about creating music? the release of their debut single. The release and the anticipation of what to create next - you “I looked out onto a sea of over 50,000 people and the never know what’s going to come running out of your little How does it feel to be played on BBC Radio Newcastle Introducing mind onto paper. Also working around people that maybe you two weeks in a row? atmosphere was fantastic” wouldn’t have even met if it wasn’t for music. It was truly awesome. I listen to BeatSurrender and BBC Radio As part of our two-year anniversary How was the recording process? Did you What has been your favourite North East Newcastle Introducing every week, usually dancing around the celebrations Teesside singer-songwriter, come across any problems? gig to date and why? Did you look up to any other female musicians when growing kitchen cooking burgers and annoying the neighbours with my awful Samantha Durnan will be playing at the Surprisingly the album has been really I’ve played some great gigs, however last up? And who do you look up to now? singing. Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough easy to record but I’m a bit of a control year I was asked to headline the Stockton Etta James was my big love (apart from Britney Spears, but on Friday 12th May alongside Cape Cub, freak when it comes to the production of Fireworks display, playing original music. let’s not talk about that). Etta James continued throughout my How did the ‘Bella Union’ EP come about? so Lee Allcock caught up with her to my music. I wrote and recorded all of the I looked out onto a sea of over 50,000 teenage years as my strong love and still to this day. But a big We had an amazing opportunity to record at Bella Union Studios in talk about her new album, supporting Ed music parts and sent them over as stems people and the atmosphere was fantastic. influence I feel at the moment is NAO - I think her uniqueness London as owner Simon Raymond really liked our demo. We saw Sheeran, and intimate gigs. to James and we would then re-record It’s so satisfying when people appreciate is something extraordinary. it as a way to raise our profile and was also an excuse for one of us them to get the exact sound we wanted. your music and performance. (who shall remain nameless….OK it was Karen) to spend a fortune You’re set to release your new album James would then spend time on the What has been your favourite performance to date? in Camden Market. ‘Want To Wander’ very soon, so can overall mix and master. You’ve supported the likes of Ed Sheeran, Singing at the highest point in Paris at the Sacreè Courè. There you tell our readers a bit more about it The Hoosiers, and Beverley Knight during was a crowd of all nationalities and everyone just started What was the recording process like? including the sound you’ve gone for, lyrical What’s your personal favourite track on your career. Did they give you any useful singing back to me. I could never replicate that feeling, it was I always find being in the studio exciting; from recording the guide content, and where it was recorded? the new album and why? advice? insane. track to arguing over who is going to push the single note on the I’ve gone for an acoustic, atmospheric and It has to be ‘The Last Word’ which I will Keep doing what you do best. At that time synth and thus get the recording credit! I was impressed that Iggy B soulful sound. I let myself go when I was be releasing alongside the pre-order of Ed Sheeran was gigging everywhere! He Could you tell us a bit about your new single, ‘Hunger’? (engineer at Bella Union) insisted the drums were recorded totally writing and found I was subconsciously my album on the Sunday 9th April. I always kept doing what he did best and he hasn’t ‘Hunger’ is about friendship and also love and hate and power live (no quantizing allowed). writing hidden meanings relating to write my songs with my acoustic guitar, but done to bad, has he? It’s pretty much been – it covers a lot of emotions. For me, personally, I enjoy a good previous experiences to life in general. once in the studio I go down a completely the same advice from every successful power song to walk to so I wanted to create one. It’s a huge Which is your favourite track on the EP? An example is when I sing ‘I Want to different route. I write a lot from feel musician I’ve met which is to keep going sound and there’s almost a hint of satisfaction. Oh, tough question. I love all the songs and my favourite changes Wander’ in a track from the album, not instead of pen to paper. I had a lot of and don’t give up. depending on my mood, the time of day and whether you ask me necessarily meaning ’let’s go for a wander’ creative energy and excitement when What are your plans for the rest of the year? straight after spending 8 hours in a confined space trying to mix it but let’s just go with the flow, and see working on this song and hopefully people Tickets for our 2nd year anniversary gig, I’ve got so many amazing festivals and gigs coming up such as (it won’t be that one!). I love my off beat hi-hats at the start of ‘Can’t where I end up. I recorded the album with will share that same feeling! priced at £5.00, are now available from Stockton Calling (15th April), and Evo Emerging (27th May)! Give You Up’ and Nathan’s driving bass on ‘Invisible Girl’ (and those James Henderson. Not only is James a seetickets.com. The capacity is just 60 so Then I’ll be finishing my degree in June, releasing another single, fills are great fun to play). good friend but also my previous guitar The Westgarth 2 is a very intimate venue... we’d suggest you book them early to avoid and you never know what the next step after that may be. teacher from the age of 8 .He’s done an is that the type of gig you prefer? disappointment. The ‘Bella Union’ EP will be released this month and will be unbelievable job and it’s been a pleasure I love to perform in an inmate setting as it For further information about the release please head to accompanied by an EP Launch on Saturday 20th May at Jumpin’ working alongside such a talented friend, gives people a chance to really listen and Facebook.com/eveconwaymusic. Jacks, Newcastle. Tickets are available from the venue or from the musician and producer. appreciate your music. band via Facebook.com/theradioset.

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Photography by Steve Gullick

CATTLE & CANE DAN OWEN “We’ve experimented with different “I can’t wait for that gig” instruments/sounds on our new album” Shrewsbury-based singer-songwriter, Dan Owen heads to Teesside band, Cattle & Cane are set to release their new album so Newcastle this month so Jack Dodsworth caught up with him Rebecca Schott caught up with band member, Helen Hammill. for a little natter. PULLED APART BY HORSES Where do you take your inspiration from when writing music? Dan, I was actually able to see you perform last year at As most artists would say I think personal experiences are where Gateshead for Birdy’s Beautiful Lies tour and the entire event we find most of our inspiration, as well as observations from what’s was flawless. What was it like to perform with Jasmine? “We played the Cluny one time and there was a stage invasion” going on around us. Joe loves film soundtracks and we all love lots She was a really great person to tour with as she’s really laid of different kinds of music too, so that definitely helps during the back and easy to get on with. Her fans have been amazingly Pulled Apart by Horses are returning to The tour comes to Newcastle on Friday line between music becoming a fashion writing process. welcoming to me, and still come out and support me at my own the North East for a show at Newcastle’s 7th April. Do you have any stand out statement. Obviously it is a great thing to gigs whenever I’m passing by. I really couldn’t have asked for Think Tank? on Friday 7th April. With moments from North East shows? be interested in new music and keeping an Would you say your music has changed much since the beginning? more. Singing a duet with her every night really was incredible. latest album ‘The Haze’ out on March Yeah! Lots really. We have played there eye out on new music and what is coming If so, how? 17th, bassist Robert Lee spoke to Callum quite a lot and it’s a great place to come through, but I often feel that people collect Our sound has matured for sure. We’ve experimented with What are your main inspirations for your music? Thornhill ahead of the show. and play. People seem to get into the bands as a trophy and act as if they have different instruments/sounds on our new album ‘Mirrors’ and we’re I like to write about things that are happening to me and around shows - we played the Cluny one time and their finger on the pulse because they really excited to share it with everyone! me in life - like things I see or times that I go through together You’re heading out on tour – is the live there was a stage invasion and I remember are into this band and they kind of forget with friends. It is more like a way of keeping a diary for me. show something you put all of your focus kids getting up and throwing each other about other bands they really got into in How does it feel to be releasing your brand-new album? into? off the stage. One minute Tom was in the the past. When you start listening to music So exciting! We’ve spent so much time on it and we’re so happy So you’re playing Think Tank?, Newcastle on Tuesday 4th Yeah, definitely! I think that when we crowd and the next he was gone. You for appearance sake and to try and prove with how it’s turned out! We recorded it over in Belgium and Malta April...what’s it like playing in the North East? Do you feel it started out we didn’t have any intentions couldn’t quite tell where the band ended something, you might as well not bother. last year with a brilliant producer called Luuk Cox and he’s really has different crowds from other places/feel there is an overall to do anything in a particular way and it and the crowd began.That is how we feel brought out the best in our new songs. different mood within the crowds? just kind of happened for us. A lot of the about the shows - it is not necessarily You mentioned that there is an abundance I can’t wait for that gig. Every time I have played there it has been passion depends on the crowd and we that someone is coming to see us and of music in certain cities, so what are the You’ve got two shows in the North East coming up including a great crowd. I get way more into it when the crowd are loud have been lucky along the way. I don’t just stand there. We are all there and in it shows you look forward to when you get Stockton Calling and a date at the Sage! Will you be doing anything so that is what I am hoping for! know why or what it is, but at our gigs I together. The crowd is all part of the show. the schedule? special for these gigs? look out into the crowd and people are We are excited for every show no matter We always have something up our sleeves for our local shows! We From all your songs, ‘Made To Love You’ seems to be the one going crazy. It is infectious to see that Do you see any difference between where it is. I wouldn’t really want to like to keep it fresh and interesting, but you’ll have to wait and see! that trends the most...do you have a favourite song to play live? happening and it makes us play the way crowds in the North and the South when categorise a place or a city because the Our last local gig was a sold out show at The Middlesbrough Empire Or one that you especially love? that we play. I guess we are all creative you tour? best thing is it can be completely surprising. at Christmas and North East crowds are always so good to us, so ‘Made to Love You’ is probably one of my favourite songs to people as well and we came to Leeds Definitely. I guess the biggest difference You can worry about going to a big city we want to make sure we make these gigs as special as we can. sing because it’s about one of my closest friends. I also have to to study art and design so the creative is that certain cities, particularly bigger thinking it could be tough, or go to a mention ‘Little Red Rooster’ though because I throw everything process, whether it be writing, recording ones like London, become saturated with smaller city and worrying no one will turn What’s your favourite thing about North East crowds? I have at it and then collapse in a heap when it’s over - that is a or demoing, is really enjoyable. But at the music for whatever reason. It is harder to up, but the great thing about being in a The atmosphere at North East shows is always electric! There’s so satisfying feeling! end of the day, I think we know that our engage with those people who are kind band is that it is so unpredictable. It always much love there and we feel very lucky to come from where we job is to entertain people and put on good of desensitised to it in a way, whereas the surprises you what can happen at a show. do! Dan Owen plays Think Tank?, Newcastle on Tuesday 4th April. gigs. Without people being interested and more Northern and working class you Tickets, priced at £8.80 (including booking fee), are available coming to the gigs we wouldn’t have the go the more enthusiastic and engaged Tickets, priced at £13.20 in advance, are Cattle & Cane’s new album, ‘Mirrors’ will be released on Friday 28th from seetickets.com. luxury of being able to write and record crowds are. I always get a bit concerned available from seetickets.com. April but you can pre-order it now from pledgemusic.com. albums. to not do it myself, but there is a fine

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Photography by RSImages

THE SKAPONES BILLY BIBBY AND THE WRY SMILES “We try to be a busy energetic group encouraging audience participation and interaction” “The Sherlocks headlined last year and look at them now”

Darlington-based band The Skapones are (I like ‘Tees Valley Calypso’) and reworking of What has been your favourite gig to date The future is looking very positive for The humour of the band comes across the set? well-known for playing fantastic covers, a couple of tracks from a local band some and why? Billy Bibby, the former Catfish and the in the video for ‘Substitute’, which is a I think we don’t try any tricks; we just but they’ve now moved into the world of the guys were in and we think it will be a The favourite gig? Ooof that’s a toughie. Bottlemen guitarist, with new releases very funny and surreal take on the song. make sure the songs are as tight and of originals. Lee Allcock caught up with nice compilation. Selling out The Forum in our home town and tour dates that will keep him (and Where did the idea come from? professional as possible. fromtman, Paul Williams to discuss original was a highlight. We have been lucky to play the Wry Smiles) busy for the rest of The last riff our guitarist made on the music, their debut album, and gigs. Where will the album be recorded? And some fantastic gigs. I think for the size of it, 2017. Damian Robinson caught up with track sounds quite country so we all Will you be coming down to see some why did you choose there? the atmosphere and occasion, our set at the Billy just before the release of his new said that we needed to get my brother, of the rest of the festival? And if so, are At the moment you’re rather well known as The album will be recorded at The Forum O2 Academy, Newcastle edges it. We played single and his headline appearance at our manager, Stephen to be walking there any acts you’re really interested a Ska covers band, so why have you decided Music Centre in Darlington. So being a there five days before The Specials graced this year’s Fleecetonbury festival. down the street with a cowboy outfit in seeing? to create your own original tracks? mainly Darlington-based band it’s an easy the same stage. It was as part of a Teenage on. We just wanted to embarrass him Velcro Teddy Bears we really want to We’ve started our own original album choice. Why? Well we’ve recorded our last Cancer Trust event and went down a storm. The new single ‘Substitute’ has just been really. Then the idea just expanded see and the Tyrants as well. because I feel we have good musicians and two tracks there with Chris Davison the We saw The Specials there a few days later released and is gaining great press as from there and we all ended up wearing guys who know how to write music and I’m engineer who helps make it a real relaxed and we were very humbled to realise we’d a strong indie/country/rock track. You cowboy outfits. We are professional on Finally, what does 2017 look like for doing a lot of lyrics. We want to create the affair. We sold the place out last year. We shared the same stage as these guys and must be happy with the strong reaction stage, but outside of that we try to take Billy Bibby and the Wry Smiles? Skapones take on our 2Tone influences in also want to support the Forum as it’s other legends previously. the press has been giving it? life not so seriously. Hopefully more of the same - more our own right, plus we love a challenge. Darlington’s main one good music venue Yeah, definitely, I think it’s been the best touring and then some festivals. Our and needs all the support and money it can And finally, do you have any interesting reaction so far. Our last single ‘Are You You’ll be headlining the Saturday new single ‘Always Something’ will be What can listeners expect from your debut to keep it open. It’s a no brainer really. stories from recording/touring that you can Ready’ was out about 5 months ago, night of the Fleecetonbury Festival released at the end of March and then album in terms of sound and lyrical content? share with us? and since that time we seem to have in Northallerton. Are you looking we’re back in the studio with more 2Tone has a massive influence on us and What can people expect at a Skapones gig? Well, we did a gig in Germany and we built up a fanbase which is growing and forward to the festival? material being released towards mid- we are unashamedly 2Tone. We’ve also Especially now you’re moving into creating bought some mock pistols for the show growing. Yeah, definitely. It’s got some great acts year. been likened to US ska band The Mighty your own original material... (gangster thing we did) and I didn’t realise on it, and people we’ve played with a lot Mighty Bosstones in our sound, which A Skapones gig is a great night out we that our sax player slipped two of them The sound of the track feels a little like over the last few months, so it’s always Billy Bibby and the Wry Smiles play of course was a real big honour. Hints of think. We try to be a busy energetic group into my case and I’d gone through customs Thin Lizzy meets The Flying Burrito good to catch up with people you enjoy Fleecetonbury Festival, Northallerton reggae and a stray into a trad ska territory encouraging audience participation and with them in there! I only realised when I’d Brothers... is this more in-line with the watching play. It’s a good step up for us on Saturday 15th April. Tickets, priced will also be the flavours of the day. Lyrically, I interaction. We will always continue to blast unpacked. That could have been tricky. direction you see the band taking? to headline this festival which is a really between £22.50 for a day and £35.00 personally write about things that affect me. out our fave 2Tone covers forever as we Yeah, I hope so. The songs I was writing good platform for emerging artists. The for the weekend (plus booking fee), are I hate injustice of all kinds so there’s bits of love them, but will intersperse at times with To find out more about the Skapones, before I had the band together were a Sherlocks headlined last year and look available from seetickets.com. More anti-tory sentiment, tales of unrequited love the originals, eventually. Our shows are a and to keep up-to-date with how things bit softer and a bit more acoustic, but at them now. information about their ‘Substitute’ and and broken relationships and even a bit on celebration of a great time and great genre are coming along with their debut original now that we have the band together ‘Always Something’ tracks can be found Smash Hits magazine. A collection of urban of music. We are on a popularity wave at the album, head to Facebook.com/theskapones. the sound is getting heavier. What can our readers who have never at billybibby.com. dilemmas, sling in a couple of instrumentals moment which is really nice. seen you play live before expect from

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SCOTT MATTHEWS NEWTON FAULKNER BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL “I’m very grateful for what music “I like singing about stuff that either "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” loudest crowd out there" has given me” matters to me, or that I think is funny, Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Wolverhampton born singer-songwriter, Scott Matthews heads to Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite the Georgian Theatre, Stockton this month so Lee Allcock caught or that I care about” Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7thTHE April so Damian Robinson AMAZONS caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, up with him to speak about working in the industry for 10+ years, After over 10 years of success, Newton Faulkner had a chat with caught up with him. and touring. what to expect at the gig, and playing alongside the likes of Dave Robyn Wainwright about his new role as a support act in his “We’ve always wanted to show you don’t need to come from a Grohl. upcoming tour. You’re bringing your ‘Here You Are - the Best of Tour’ to You’ve just released your debut album, so what kind of reception Gateshead. As yourbig most city recent albumlike ‘HereManchester You Are’ focuses or hasLondon it received soto far? be noticed” Over the years you’ve played international sell-out tours with Are you excited about the tour? both on the songs that have influenced you and the songs Really great. There has been so much positive feedback and it’s respected artists such as Bert Jansch, Robert Plant and Alison Kraus, The tour should be fun as I’ll be playing a couple of new bits. I’ve thatReading’s have The become Amazons your are greatest quickly hits what canDo we you expect have a particulargreat method to hearfor which songsAs an are up-and-coming personal favourites. band, do I’m you really think Foo Fighters, Rufus Wainwright and Tori Amos. But who would you been either headlining or doing festivals for years now, so the idea frombecoming the show?one of the biggest bands to writing your tracks? happy that people haveReading understood provided where good I’m opportunities coming from for with say was your favourite artist you’ve ever toured with and why? of doing support is exciting. The fact that there is going to be a Igrace always 2017. play A asthrowback many of tothe the hits rock live as I can.I When have a younever-ending are pileit, of with half-finished the themes of heartbreakyour music andto be acceptance heard? and maturity. I wouldn’t say I have a favourite as such because every drop of bunch of people there who are not there to see me, and I have to luckylegends enough of old, Theto have Amazons had quite are exactly a few hits youideas. must I’ve accept started to write tracks at home It’s a scene that has definitely built up a experience I’ve preserved has its own magic. From watching Bert impress them, is exhilarating. thatwhat thethe fans2017 want music to scene hear needs. them Aand fresh I like playingwhich them.we usually I will draw fromThe whentour seeswe’re you stoppinghuge amountat many since different we started. UK cities...are It’s been Jansch play the most extraordinary guitar to hearing Rufus sing alsoand excitingbe doing young a few band, songs their off music the ‘Here is full You Are’putting album, stuff buttogether as as athere band. any I usually places you haven’ta combined been before?effort over the last couple of like the angels, Tori being so captivating, witnessing Dave Grohl You have previously stated that you: “felt like you’d grown up a theof earth-shattering album reached riffs No. and 4 inmelodic the charts, guitar the fansbegin know songs them on an as acoustic I’m guitar really or looking a forwardyears to between playing atthe The bands Cluny like having ourselves heard teaching us all how to be a bona-fide rock god! These are treasured bit.” Do you feel that this new maturity is going to be reflected in wellsolos. as Bringing the older sounds ones. of Led Zeppelin piano. If they don’t work sothat many stripped great things aboutand Sundara that venue! Karma, Newcastle and a number is a beautiful of memories that are very precious and to be amongst those iconic your music? and Nirvana, their single ‘In My Mind’ is a back, they never will. Thencity. it’s I justplayed a case a Sofar of Soundsgreat therepromoters, last year artists which etc wasto make incredible. figures at such an early stage of my career has rubbed off in such a I would think so. I tend to just be pretty honest with whatever is Youperfect seem example to really of debut enjoy record being releasedon stage and tryingperforming these songs live. on with the band, seeing something happen in our town and I think positive way for me as a performer and songwriter. going on in my life album-wise and you can chart what’s going on Isthis playing summer. live Robyn your Wainwrightfavourite part managed of being a musician?if they fit, the other boysDo writing you thinktheir you’llown trywe’re do any getting touristy there. things We’ve whilst always on wanted the tour? through the albums quite accurately, I think. I wouldn’t have that Ito really have enjoya little playingchat with live. them When during I am their on the stageparts andhearing arranging the the songsWell wetogether. had a good lookto show around you on don’t our needlast tour to come so this from time a Your Georgian Theatre date will be a very intimate affair. Do you any other way. I wouldn’t do it unless I was doing it for the right crowdbusy tour sing schedule, along to which the songsincludes it’s coming a great feeling. When I give we will have to visit somebig citydifferent like London attractions. or Manchester We visited to be prefer intimate gigs? And what can gig-goers expect from your reasons. I like singing about stuff that either matters to me, or that outto Newcastle to the audience on Tuesday and 8th they April. give back it makesYou havea fantastic a strong fan-baseQueensferry in Newcastle... in Edinburghnoticed. last time we played which was Georgian show? I think is funny, or that I care about. night where we can all forget about our troubleshow does and forthat a feel? beautiful. We haven’t actually been to the Angel of the North, so If push comes to shove then I’d have to say the intimate gigs are coupleYou have of a hoursvery specific have fun. focus I like and to genre make it a partyIt feels vibe. great. My dad andwill his haveside ofto the take a trip Afterup there this thistour, time what around! is next for The more rewarding for the soul. To get to see and hear the audience in ‘Human Love’ was accused of having a more mainstream ‘vibe’. with your music...has that always been the family are all from here so I was up a bit Amazons? such close proximity is an at times overwhelming experience and How did you feel about that reaction? Youcase? tend to bring your tours to the North Eastwhile of I wasEngland growing up. WeYour love music Newcastle career has We’rehad some going pretty to be amazingreleasing moments our debut so far, it’s where I can gain a clearer understanding and a greater sense of It was a conscious decision. I thought, I’m with a big label, I should quiteNot at a all!lot. It’s What taken do many you yearsenjoy the most aboutas athe place ‘up - north’lovely people but and what you’ve would got a you sayrecord is your in favouritethe summer moment which towe’re date? excited purpose in how my music can connect. There’s also nowhere to actually see what happens if I take a step back and see what’s going crowd?and various bands to find our feet great scene up here too. My favourite moment about.is getting After playlisted that, we’ll on be BBC deep Radio into 1festival just hide, so the occasion becomes a challenge I try to thrive on. The on. I wanted to do something that sounds really big and exciting. It’ssonically. just a Before great Thecrowd. Amazons I must we say, were the North East crowd must because I felt so happyseason that lots which of people is always like a mefun weretime forgoing to Georgian Theatre ticks all the right boxes for me and I can’t wait Production-wise, there’s loads of really fun stuff on it. If anything, its beexperimenting the loudest on crowd the more out there.electronic A lot of your shows for thisbe listening tour are to sold my music!us. We’veIt was gotan amazing Reading feeling.& Leeds, Isle of to meet some new faces - especially as it’s my first visit – and greet possibly got too much stuff on it. But I think that was a reaction to side of things. We were well into M.I.A and out. Did that come as a shock? Wight, Great Escape and Live At Leeds some old friends. I’ll mainly be playing songs from my new record ‘Studio Zoo’ which was so purist - there was nothing that wasn’t Finally,similar artists,what doesbut we the found immediate out pretty future bringWe’re for you just and really can excited Finally,to come is thereout on anything confirmed you want toat thesay tomoment the people and loads coming more ‘Home Part 2’ as well as a few favourites from my previous four sang or played live, which I hadn’t done before. wequickly look it forwardwasn’t for to us. some We went new back material to in 2017?the road and meet everyone.to see I guess you? if we to announce, including some abroad which albums. Imaking have a music full year influenced of touring by thethe stuff world, that but I amhadn’t making visited time most of theseYou’re places in for multiple a fun night!we There can’t waitwill be for. sing-songs and some Newton Faulkner will support Amy McDonald on this tour, and toinspired write us new to picksongs up forinstruments an album in to the be releasedtimes in over 2018. the last two yearsswearing, it would but you’ll have a great time! Scott Matthews plays the Georgian Theatre, Stockton on Friday 7th the tour will reach Newcastle City Hall on Tuesday 11th April. first place; it was the natural thing to do be a big shock, but it feels like a natural The Amazons play The Cluny, Newcastle April. Tickets, priced at £12.00 in advance (plus booking fee), are Tickets, priced from £26.40 in advance (including booking fee), are Tickets,and it’s worked priced outbetween for us £24.19so far. - £48.38, areprogression available from for us and a Tickets,sign people priced at £7.70on (including Tuesday 8thbooking April. Tickets,fee), are priced available at available from teesmusicalliance.org.uk. Tickets OTD are priced at available at theatreroyal.co.uk. sagegateshead.com. are connecting with the music,from thecluny.com. which is £8.50 in advance (plus booking fee), are £14.00. everything. available from thecluny.com.

40 41 Tynedale Park Adult day tickets Corbridge start from £35

••• Plus many more over 3 stages ••• 7th & 8th July 2017 Adult day tickets from £35 Tickets at corbridge-festival.co.uk NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS

resurrected. It’s a huge accolade for a have listened for much longer than his support act, I know, but I truly believe 15-minute set. WHITE LIES Cameron has something special and will SOHAM DE Harri Endersby from Durham, hit the music world by storm this year. partnered by her husband on guitar, got His music on the other hand was very a slightly longer set time. I’d assumed + Alexander Cameron experimental, with heavy 80’s influences. + Harri Endersby that Harri was of Nordic descent and, The only negative thing I could say being a sucker for things Icelandic, was at O2 Academy, Newcastle is that the two other band members + Diji Solanki at the looking forward to hearing her play. almost become lost as Cameron has But she is in fact English, and sings her 23/02/2017 such a great stage presence. Mining Institute, Newcastle traditionally Northern-inspired folk Written and photographed by After a short interlude, up stepped the songs with a locally accented voice with Rhiannon Banks band everybody had been waiting for. 26/02/2017 the occasional hard vowels that is just With the release of their new album plain beautiful. just days earlier, White Lies could have Written and photographed by Another twenty people would have White Lies are back and brought their filled the set with their new material Wayne Bordoli been a packed house, but it was a good much-loved music to the O2 tonight for but instead they mainly played all their turnout for Soham De’s first headliner what was a fascinating and insightful night. old favourites to make sure that the I’ve always had a soft spot for out-of-the- in Newcastle. I hold admiration for Managing to make it to the venue by the crowd was satisfied including hits such ordinary venues and often the price paid solo performers stepping out on the skin of their teeth (due to storm Dorris) as ‘Death’, ‘Farewell to the Fairground’ is a below average audio in exchange for big stage: they always appear small and the band did arrive (just a little bit later and ‘Big TV’ that had the whole visual experience. Thankfully, this was not in the immensity of the hall Soham than scheduled). audience singing as one. the case at the Mining Institute where became a dot on the blue soaked Support act, Australian Alexander The atmosphere tonight was electric, we were treated to a visually sumptuous stage but soon filled the void with his Cameron, brought something very with a nostalgic buzz around the older event and a room-filling sound that was resonant percussive guitar style and his different to much of the music that is songs. Coming back on for their encore perfect for the gentle intensity of three husky, slightly throaty vocals. around at the moment. To everyone’s to play three of the fans favourites, and excellent performances. Covering many difficult subjects, his surprise, and with obvious whispers ending on a high with ‘Bigger Than Us’, Diji Solanki, a last minute stand in for the songs hide no emotion but it’s not around the crowd, the audience were in I honestly don’t think the audience wonderful Eve Simpson who was a late dour or depressing and the listener awe because Alexander Cameron had a wanted the night to end as the set pull out due to illness, performed his self- can only go along and be wrapped up huge sense of David Bowie. seemed to fly by; but I guess that just penned soulful ballads with an unassuming in the twists and be twanged, stretched His style of dress, mannerisms and shows that you are having a good time. quiet joy. Punctuated with percussive and beaten in a melodic catharsis. Now movements on stage were so like clicks and tuts (beatbox style) and with managed, and with a deal coming up, I Bowie it was almost like he had been his interesting guitar playing I could expect him to do well.

a progressive start to the show. Synth- together, that music that moves you soaked ‘Muchacho’ was a highlight from doesn’t need to be square-jawed and KINGS OF LEON ‘Walls’ and to hear it projected in front sensible, the ‘Ways strike a chord in their of 11,000 people gave it a new lease of STORNOWAY audience by proving that their entire life. Naturally, it was the likes of ‘Sex on catalogue comprises of lovingly arranged, at Metro Radio Arena, Fire’ that the fans wanted to hear most, at Sage, Gateshead deeply emotive, brilliant songs. Neither but after publically stating they hated pessimistic nor miserable, the Stornoway’s Newcastle performing it nowadays, it was tucked 27/02/2017 have always been able to create songs neatly into the setlist and no major fuss that have that hard to capture blend of was given to it. 24/02/2017 Written and photographed by sadness and joyfulness wrapped together. Complementing the music was a Damian Robinson Live, lead singer Brian Briggs delivers a Written and photographed by massive electronic backdrop featuring vocal similar in style and substance to Callum Thornhill mesmerising imagery and lights, which Tim Booth - using howls and spikes to were hidden behind a slick curtain Some memories, the ones you want to forget, never seem to leave. For me add emotional force to his emotive lyrics. Kings of Leon brought their Walls world when Caleb Followill played a handful that would be the memory of someone Backed by some serious musicianship, tour to Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena of acoustic numbers including ‘The important who was there one moment the band offer a depth of sound which tonight to a loving reception. The packed Runner’. Soon he was joined again by and gone the next. It’s the memory of includes pianos, violins, mandolins, arena hosted the renowned Nashville brothers Nathan and Jared as well as a breakup, and the worst kind, the kind I banjos, polystyrene and hammers. Three band who played hits stretching back cousin Matthew on stage to close the never saw coming. acoustic tracks provide the heart of the as far as 2003 and as recent as latest show with emphasis and passion. As I’ve matured I’ve come to evening, ‘Josephine’ is beautiful, but an album, ‘Walls’. The mixture of tracks were ‘Closer’ stood out as a ghostly echo understand that not all memories of a almost acapella version of ‘Get Low’ is performed beautifully; and those who crept around the Arena as the night breakup need to be forgotten. Some spellbinding and is credited with a worthy, were lucky enough to have tickets for the gradually came to an end. ‘Come break ups can, in fact, be the most and lengthy, ovation. Tight, brotherly, four- show will agree that everything from the Around Sundown’s’ ‘Pyro’ received an mature and sensible thing for adults piece vocal harmonies with lyrics ‘Keep signature Followill vocals to the stunning emphatic reception, but it was Kings who love each other, but want different dreaming, gotta play to be in the game, stage set-up made the band’s three year of Leon’s arguably biggest hit ‘Use things out of life, to do. when you’ve got a goal, when you’ve got absence from the city worth it. Somebody’ which stole the show. Belted Along a similar train of thought, and a plan, there’s still time’ seem so painfully Kicking off, quite ironically, with ‘The End’, out before a roaring rendition of ‘Waste after almost 12 years together, nice ironic and sad. Kings of Leon stayed somewhat hidden a Moment’, it saw Kings of Leon cement guys Stornoway brought their breakup There are no tears. We don’t want tears. under the red stage lights until three their status as one of the greatest rock tour to the Sage for the start of But we do want memories, the good ones, songs into their set. Adding an eerie, bands of the 21st century. what would be their last ever shows. the ones that will never seem to leave. mysterious vibe to their live set-up, it was Proving, as they have across their time

44 45 NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS

Moving on, the intelligentsia finally have a passionate drums and eery Ian Curtis- boy band to call their own, and their name esque vocals. What caught my eye straight DUTCH UNCLES is Dutch Uncles. Clad in matching navy THE BLINDERS away was Frontman Ollie, who was bigging blue bomber jackets, their appearance and up local band Mouses in one of their sound has never been more focused than it T-shirts. Hang on a minute...but wasn’t + Slug is tonight. As precise and indecipherable as + Casual Threats Mouse’s singer Steve in the crowd? That’s the workings of a Swiss watch, Dutch Uncles when it all came together like a jigsaw at the Cluny, Newcastle manage to forge great swathes of hypnotic + Swily Chill at KU Bar, puzzle. Halfway through ‘Suarez’ Steve funk from songs which confound any attempts jumped up onto KU Bar’s stage railing from 02/03/2017 of categorisation, or even to understand the Stockton the dance floor. He balanced up there for a musical theory that lies behind them. Usually few seconds, before making a majestic leap Written and photographed by it’s the bass that gives the game away, but 03/03/2017 onto the stage with Casual Threats. His Martin Sharman Robin Richards’ low end is precise, persistent cameo was perfectly timed, as he wobbled and absolutely inscrutable. And therein lies the Written by Thomas Anderson about the stage in an epic duet. Sunderland scenesters Slug have been Uncles’ singular flaw. Photography by Sam Edge But it was The Blinders that really blew accompanying the Uncles for a few dates At the risk of appearing to be a clueless the roof of the place. Their sound is raw, around the country, so this represents heathen, their songs can be too clever for Tonight, The Blinders invaded Stockton in feral and yet royal: their live performance something of a homecoming gig for them. their own good. At one point Duncan Wallis a memorable night of disorderly political primal and out of control. The punk-like If you close your eyes the Field Music says something about: “that’s the trouble with post-punk. energy and disobedience carried on until influence is undeniable, but projected playing songs with no chords”, and he’s on the The whole of KU Bar was already bouncing the end of their set. Halfway through their through a distorting prism of wayward funk, money. You can’t often sing-along, you certainly from the moment the band room opened. single ‘Swine’, the lead singer crouched fuzzy breakdowns, and undeniable sleaze. can’t learn the chords and busk anything Local indie heroes, Swilly Chill had the on the stage railing, looking down at KU At one point they break out into what they play, and apart from the more scriptable crowd moving as soon as people had begun Bar, whilst singing the psychedelic boat I am reliably informed is a facsimile of a lyrics like ‘Babymaking’, it’s difficult to know pouring through the door. Their earthy rock trip song from Willy Wonka and the ‘70s porn movie soundtrack. Nice. ‘Greasy what he’s on about which is a shame, because ‘n’ roll vibes had everyone jumping, and Chocolate Factory. I can still hear ‘There Love’ is a highlight, with its jittering Talking I’m sure there’s just as much enjoyment in they were a very strong start indeed. It’s is no hope!” ringing in my ears from the Heads-esque arrangement shifting gear the lyrical content as there is in the music. worth mentioning that at this point Steve chorus, in which the singer drifted through effortlessly between 80s electronica and Nothing can match the Dutch Uncles if you from Mouses sneaked into the crowd, in a the crowd. The Blinders set finished how it heavy riffing. There’s a track from what Ian wish to engage one’s brain and hips equally seemingly innocent manner. started - abrupt, violent and with no f***s Black calls his unfinished second album, and and simultaneously, as I did tonight. Usual suspects, Casual Threats crashed into given, as they threw their instruments into on the evidence of tonight it should be hotly stage next in yet again another North East the speakers and stormed of the stage. anticipated indeed. post-punk explosion of droning guitars, Fantastic.

perhaps an arena with pyro. The band track that has everyone coming together soon slowed down, however, elegantly and dancing as one. WITH placing recently released slow song, MARSICANS Next up charistmatic Hartlepudlian, ‘Long Night’ in the middle of their set, James Leonard Hewitson made his way with the vocalist (Jayden Seeley) left + James Leonard Hewitson onto the stage.The DIY musician has CONFIDENCE alone on stage to perform a story most a somewhat drowsy yet passionate personal to the singer. Lyrics such as: demeanour, which shows through “I remember the nights when’d you + Lost State Of Dance the styling of each of his tracks. at Think Tank?, Newcastle lie with me, When we’d talk and we’d His performance is brimming with touch and fall asleep” certainly turned At KU Bar, Stockton personality; from the jolly verses of ‘Shy 03/03/2017 heads, with the focus of the audience Of Hard Work’, to the dreary yet hopeful zoned in and swaying - a direct contrast 11/03/2017 choruses of ‘Care Less, Love Less’. The Written and photographed by to the previous pop-punk anthems. Written by Thomas Anderson room isn’t near as energetic now but Elara Christie Later, the music soon turned back up Photography by Sam Edge everyone stops to listen to James - he’s and the audience started to immediately the sort of artist you just take in. With only one full length studio album jump along - creating a worthy pit For the second week running, KU Bar have It had been a suspenseful wait for and a lengthy UK tour, it isn’t surprising that trapped the entire room. It is not booked a phenomenal line-up of original headliners Marsicans, but when they that the newly-formed pop-punk band surprising that the set felt short, despite bands. And tonight, Marsicans journeyed up arrived they truly took the roof off With Confidence turned ears as soon playing for around an hour and a half, from Leeds to show us how it’s done. the place with a genuine high-quality as they got off the plane from Sydney, as the night drew to a close playing the Local legends, Lost State Of Dance performance. The Leeds four-piece put Australia. Kicking it off with the infamous upbeat song, ‘Waterfall’. whizzed onto the stage first. These everything into this night, you could tell. song title, ‘Voldemort’ from their debut Wrapping the set up, during the encore Hartlepool lads are by far my favourite on There was no holding back as they tore album ‘Better Weather’, the room began the band turned to a less recent song, the local circuit right now. The thick 80’s up the venue with a beaming display of to spin as it transformed into a circle ‘London Lights’ which was released on synth blends together with sparkly guitars, feel-good indie-pop bangers. These boys pit with a lot of teenage-angst and their previous EP ‘Distance and Keeper’ chilling vocals and bouncy drums; and their know how to put on a show, and you grins from both the audience and the - a hard-hitting song about asking for concoction of galactic and psychedelic can see that they enjoy it. They sung band. Not only did the band manage to help during tough times. Overall, With sounds pierces the atmosphere. The room of good times, girls and good friends; capture the audience, they presented a Confidence certainly lived up to their is already starting to bounce with energy. bringing the night into a positive end, and show that defied the small venue and expectations and put themselves onto The band’s sound is almost heroic, as they launching the streets of Stockton off into low lights, making up for this with their the top of the map of up-and-coming get KU Bar ready for battle. They finish a euphoric weekend. own theatrics. It is not hard to imagine bands, undoubtedly leaving fans wishing smoothly on ‘Dancefloor’ - a euphoric With Confidence in a larger venue or for more.

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FEVA CATALYSE JUICE & ALBERT MATT DUNBAR TYNE DOCK SOUND CHERRY HEAD, ‘Waiting Room’ 'LED' Single Review ‘Phantom (Femme Fatal)’ 'Home' EP Review BUREAU CHERRY HEART Written by Damian Robinson Single Review Written by Damian Robinson Single Review ‘Soldiers Of Love’ ‘Tarred & Feathered’ Northumberland based singer- Written by Thomas Anderson Picture yourself left stranded in a city Written by Nathan Douthwaite Album Review Album Review songwriter, Matt Dunbar began his Photography by Daniel Stark centre on a night out, after the clubs musical career as part of cult local Written by Damian Robinson Written by Damian Robinson have ended and your friends have Newcastle duo Juice & Albert have just group Mad & The Hatters before I’m going to get a little bit carried gone home, and it’s just you and your dropped their latest single, ‘Phantom Someone claiming that Justin Bieber The new album from eclectic Teesside they disbanded in 2013. Following away with this one, as ‘Waiting desire to carry the party onwards. (Femme Fatal)’, and their third release is cutting edge should not make great alt-pop duo Cherry Head, Cherry a three-year spell in University, Matt Room’ by Feva (made up of members Slightly susceptible to offers, sees them delve into the depths of dance music. But Mark Gibson does, Heart took about three years to write returns to music with the release of from Durham Band The Castells but never lacking in confidence, stronger and more mature production. and that may just be the reason he is and piece together - a fact that meant his debut solo EP ‘Home’. Opening and Newcastle band Hazels) is an these next few hours could lead ‘Phantom (Femme Fatal)’ follows becoming a standout character in the its creation was designed in stages and with the words: “I’m sick of people absolutely incredible track and has you anywhere. Hopefully that’s up from the duo’s locally-acclaimed local dance scene. ‘Soldier of Love’, inspiration drawn from a collection of telling me how to live my life”, ‘Home’ been on a loop on my Spotify ever somewhere sensible, but you know it second single, ‘Wait In the Dark’ and the new album from Mr Gibson, or places rather than a single focus. Perhaps proves to be a lush record of folk rock since it landed in my inbox this month. probably won’t be. Well Teesside band, it definitely follows it up strongly. ‘Tyne Dock Sound Bureau!’ (TDSB) it’s this diversity of influences which gives songs that display considered personal Is there any wonder why though? Catalyse’s new single ‘LED’ may be The ghostly guitar tones emulate to his friends, cleverly sequences the record, purposefully, a mixture in reflections alongside disciplined music The indie rockers have produced an the perfect soundtrack to that feeling. early Wytches music and parallel the eight of his tracks together into sound that spans several musical styles production. Stand out tracks ‘Bridget energetic, down-to-earth anthem Taking its form in a loud, distorted, singles title; the vocals sound crisp and a single, continuous, piece. Highly including gospel, acoustic, pop and soul. Jones Diary’ and ‘Just a Dream’ offer that turns your play button into a alternative rock feel, the sound of the professional, with elements of Alex conceptual in its vision, and similar Heavily designed as a concept album, layers of gentle instrumentation highly addictive substance. The overall track promises a look inside what it Turner (Arctic Monkeys) and Tom in musical style to, say, ‘My life in though not formally presented as one, which provide a strong foundation for rhythm is rigged, earthy and upbeat means to know what you want, and Ogden (Blossoms); and the drums are the Bush of Ghosts’, ‘Soldiers’ is the record follows a couple as they Dunbar’s sensitive, Jeff Buckley-esque with the vocals uplifting, powerful and how you’re going to get it, and not simplistic, in a way that they keep the produced using cut and paste spoken travel across Europe - initially running vocals and his thoughtful, big picture moving. The blunt, in-your-face lyrics being afraid to tell anyone. pace of the song and don’t try and word samples blended across away from something before eventually questions raised in the song writing. tell a frustrated and relatable story Opening gambits: “I just want to stay take over the track. It has western atmospheric rhythms from the dub, finding contentment in themselves. ‘Bridget Jones Diary’ offers the most of being stuck in an unsatisfactory up cause I’m not tired/ I got tired overtones and the track would fit house, dance, EDM, reggae and 2-step Interestingly, tracks produced later in the structured narrative on the record period of your life. It’s filled with a eyes but my brains wired. You don’t perfectly onto a modern day western worlds. The result sounds unfinished, albums creation provide subtle themes with an argument against machismo, sense of anxiety and dread, yet with know me/ but I know you/ don’t film. It’s also an extremely scenic track strange and schizophrenic - it also about the refugee crisis - offering a sense recklessness and: “f****** around in a passionate essence of hope that expect a lot /I just came to change that transports you into a world that sounds like nothing else in dance of how it feels like to be unwanted or bars”. With its clever lyrical insights, things are going to get better in time. the world” showcase both the Juice & Albert are trying to create. The music. Using psychedelic themes displaced. As has been a constant in the orchestral backing and multi-tracking Coming in at three minutes and two certainty of the main character and final outro to the song is an interesting (‘Dolly Takes an Acid Trip’, ‘Do You duo’s career, intelligent lyrics provide both vocals it sounds less Bob Dylan folk and seconds, the only complaint I have is also the acknowledgement that they one as it becomes very gothic and Dream in Stereo’, ‘Supernature’) as wit and thought provocation. Though more Paddy Macaloon/Prefab Sprout how short the track is. The insanely may, well, not be like other boys. draws in classic horror sounds - sound the basis of its concept, the art-dance never overtly political or judgemental, folk - which is to say folk disguised catchy chorus has me begging for A riff-heavy guitar background you would signify with the film, IT. record explores the possibilities of their thematic and metaphoric approach inside of a pop melody. The remaining more. Feva are ones to look out provides the track with a well- And the haunting fairground music dance music and takes the listener becomes an important part in joining 4 tracks, particularly ‘Moment in Time’ for this year and are a real force to constructed, and cleverly produced, that warps around the listener’s ears on a journey which fleetingly reminds the record together; especially with the and ‘Here Comes the Brave’ are more be reckoned with. They’ve already musical feel which is close in sound actually adds a fantastic twist to the you of the KLF, Daft Punk, Massive changing sounds of each track which alter traditionally acoustic singer song-writer, secured slots with huge bands such as to both the sleezier elements of track. Juice & Albert have really struck Attack, Green Velvet, Kraftwerk, from early indie in sound right through maintaining the insights of ‘Bridget Manic Street Preachers (and will be Kyuss and the onslaught feeling of gold with this track: it’s well produced Pet Shop Boys and (Violator era) to synthesised pop. The final combination Jones Diary’ and ‘Just a Dream’, but playing Stockton Calling this month) Royal Blood. and has a serious professional element Depeche Mode. It also makes you of the mixed sounds and the constant being stripped, almost, right back to just so I’m expecting big things from them. This is a great song for moments to it (proving that D.I.Y can still give feel that it should be dressed up for a narration theme give the record a very a voice and an instrument. As a debut Definitely check out their new single when you’re feeling special and want off great results), yet it’s also fun and a night out at the coolest, naffest, place modern feel both in its concept and EP, this is a great place to build from. to get a taste for what they’re about, to tell the world. pleasure to listen to. A duo who have in town. Conceptually and musically sound. Cherry Head, Cherry Heart Quick footnote to my favourite lyrics: and then get yourself down to one of For further information about the blended nostalgic tones with modern this is an album that aims high and may have taken three years on this, but “I’ll have to work at Dixons if I finish the shows as I guarantee these guys new release please head to facebook. melodies, Juice & Albert are gaining a delivers higher. it’s been well worth the effort. It’s both with a third”. Brilliant. are going to be huge. The single is now com/CatalyseBand. strong cult following and are definitely For further information about the thought-provoking and fun at the same available to download on Spotify and ones to watch. For further information regarding release, or to take a listen, please time. For further information about the at soundcloud.com/fevaband. Listen to the single now at soundcloud. Matt and this release please head to head to mixcloud.com/mr_x7 . album, and to purchase a copy, head to com/juiceandalbert. Facebook.com/Mattdunbarmusic. cherryheadcherryheart.com.

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• Okkultokrati. • An Evening with Ian McCulloch. • Open Mic. Quayside, Newcastle. • Mini Mayfair: House of Classic Rock. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £7.00. Sage, Gateshead. • The Folk Sessions. City Hall, Newcastle. APRIL 2017 GIG LISTINGS • Pigs Ear. O’Gradys, Redcar. The Empty Shop HQ, Durham. Free. • High Time Live Limited Presents: Kovic. Friday 7th April Saturday 1st April Monday 3rd April • Flame Squad presents: Jaded Eyes + • Bon Jovi Forever. Riverside, Newcastle. £8.00. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. • Adrenaline + Blood Moon Bandits. • Xero. Trillians, Newcastle. • Two Blue. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. Traits + Hung Like Jack + The Fucking Forum Music Centre, Darlington. • Platinum.

Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. • Wolf Eyes. Sage, Gateshead. • Tees Music Alliance Presents: Glorious. £12.00 Adv. • Nearly Noel + Acoustic Weller. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. • Antiseptics + Sixed. Musiclounge, • SJM Concerts Presents: You Me At Six. Scott Matthews. The Venue, Northallerton. £6.00 OTD. • Whirling Dervish presents: £10.00 Adv, £12.00 OTD. Stockton. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £32.62 Adv. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £12.00 Adv. • Pistoleros. Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. Lost in the Crowd + Bruto. • The Fountains. Vulcan Inn, Winlaton. • British Sea Power. TSOne, Middlesbrough. Free. • Romeos Pistols. The Tavern, Blyth. Free. Tuesday 4th April Sunday 9th April Riverside, Newcastle. £16.00. Friday 14th April • Stuntmen. O’Gradys, Redcar. • Amelia Coburn. • Dan Owen. • SSD Concerts Presents: Palace. • Arrows of Time + Velvoir. • Sound Cartel. ARC, Stockton. £8.50 OTD. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.50. • 14-16th: Fleecetonbury Festival, • Ezio. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £12.50. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £11.00. Trillians, Newcastle. Northallerton. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. • Louis Berry. Wednesday 5th April • Darlington R’n’B Club Presents: • Dave Ridley + Russ Tippins. • Duo Goodfella. • Stockton Calling. Riverside, Newcastle. £12.32. • Open Mic Night. Red Butler. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. Saltburn House, Saltburn Various Venues, Stockton. • The Smiths Ltd. KU Bar, Stockton. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. Free. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. £12.00. • Telepathy + Zaum + Kylver. • Revolver. • Full Tilt. Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £7.00. • Space Hoppers. • HE & Research Presents: • Tom Whitton Charity Fundraiser: Billingham Catholic Club, Billingham. Sunday 16th April Future Grooves ft. Northern Monkey Fizzy Fish. • Sunday Sessions. Quayside, Newcastle. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. • Alex Fawcett Band. • UK Rock Legends. Brass Band. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. £7.00. • The Troubleshooters. • Girospcope ELO + ELP + Genesis. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £6.00. • Twister + Without a Word + Nephilim. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Swine Tax. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Bigfoot. Trillians, Newcastle. • Andy Jones. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Folkworks: John McCusker Band. • Dean Palmer. Monday 10th April • Ian Campbell. The Looking Glass, Stockton. • Dirty South. Trillians, Newcastle. Chaplins, Sunderland, Free. Sage, Gateshead. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. • New Model Army. • Shiver. O’Gradys, Redcar. • Acoustic Night: Reece Hanrhan • The Hybrids. Legacy, Sunderland. Free. • The MuffinMen ft. Denny Walley. • Grip. St. Peter’s Club, Byker. Free. Riverside, Newcastle. £22.00. • Greg Russel + Ciaran Algar. + Dan Wilkinson + Gary Sanders • Cousin Matthew. O’Gradys, Redcar. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.00. • Jumpin’ Hot Club Presents: • Riley’s Live Buskers. ARC, Stockton. £10.00 Adv. + Andrew Yeadon. • Bornvillains. • The Sex Pistol Experience. Rebecca Pronsky Duo + Bridie Jackson. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Pulled Apart by Horses. Musiclounge, Stockton. Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. The Tavern, Blyth. £12.00. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £11.00. • Acoustic Night. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £13.20. • Colin Hay. Sage, Gateshead. • The Flying Oysters. • The Grumpies + Bad Co. • The Moondogs. Billingham Catholic Club, Billingham. Cosy Dove, Newcastle. • Big Sister. Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. Tuesday 11th April Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. • Twin Hears + Like A Wookie. • SSD Concerts Presents: Toseland. • 13 Cities. Station Hotel, Loftus. • Ashes of Iron. Trillians, Newcastle. • IKON: The QFX 25th Anniversary. Trillians, Newcastle. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00. • Amy Macdonald. • Doggone Daddy. • The Blueflies. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £17.43 Adv. • SJM Presents: Frances. • Billy Ocean + Yolanda Brown. City Hall, Newcastle. £33.00 Adv. Saltburn House, Saltburn Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. • Sunday Sessions. Quayside, Newcastle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. £13.50 Adv. Sage, Gateshead. • Folkworks: The Shee. Sage, Gateshead. • Local Band Night: Ol’ Glory Sunday 2nd April Monday 17th April • The Force. + Gram Baker. Thursday 6th April Wednesday 12th April • Shawn James. Trillians, Newcastle. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. £5.00. • Vodun. Trillians, Newcastle. • Tees Hot Club. • Acoustic Night. Cosy Dove, Newcastle. • Bury Tomorrow + Grossfaith • Jack Bowden + The Flames. Saturday 8th April • Angelic Upstarts. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. • Remembering Fred. Sage, Gateshead. Independent, Sunderland. £10.00. + Black Peaks + Any Given Sunday. • Alex Fawcett Band. • Busker Variety Night. • The Brand New Cadillacs. • Riley’s Live Buskers. • Good Friday: Frog On The Tyne 4pm Riverside, Newcastle. £17.50. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. Musiclounge, Stockton. Station Hotel, Loftus. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. + Alcatraz House 9pm. • Richard Ashcroft + Black Grape. • Acid Reign + The Souls of Jack Ketch. • Bloodstock BOTB. • EQ. Billingham Catholic Club, Billingham. • Desmerelda + GoGo Midgets. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. O2 Academy, Newcastle. The Cluny, Newcastle. £14.00. Trillians, Newcastle. Free. • The Galileo 7 + Support. Trillians, Newcastle. • PINS + Baby in Vai + Yassassin. Saturday 15th April • Tees Music Alliance Presents: • Kossoff: The Band Plays On. Westgarth, Middlesbrough. £8.00 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £9.00. Thursday 13th April • The Stumble + Oil City Connection. Wolf People. Customs House, South Shields. £17.00. • Real Friends. • Fickle Lilly 4pm + Good Souls 8pm. Redcar Citizen Club. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £10.00 Adv. • Camerons Road Crew Presents: Riverside, Newcastle. £15.40. • Busker Variety Night. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. Phil Campbell + The Bastard Sons. • Steve Ballantyne Band. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Craig Davies. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. • Tees Music Alliance Presents: Tuesday 18th April The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. • Purple Rain. • Blistered Molly. Legacy, Sunderland. Free. Good Music Club with Colin Holt. • Mutilated Judge + Deatbus. • Open Mic. Quayside, Newcastle. • SSD Concerts Presents: The Amazons. City Hall, Newcastle. £24.50 Adv. • BoomChang Presents: McDade The Masham, Stockton. Free. Trillians, Newcastle. £5.00. • Whirling Dervish Presents: Arcane 39 The Cluny, Newcastle. £8.50. • Nathan Fake. Greatest Hits Vol 1 Album Launch + • Sunday Sessions. Quayside, Newcastle. • Chris de Burgh and Band. + Sister Strange + Singapore Safehouse. • Call Off the Search. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00. George Borowski ft. Mora. Sage, Gateshead. TSOne, Middlesbrough. Free. The Tavern, Blyth. Free. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00.

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• Kimera. • Fast Forward Promotions Presents: • Tees Music Alliance Presents: Elmfield Social Club, Hebburn. Free. Spear of Destiny. The Purnells Final Show. APRIL 2017 GIG LISTINGS • Idolise. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £13.50 Adv. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £6.00 Adv. Wednesday 19th April • The Twisted Dolls + Tanx The Britannia, Houghton Le Spring. Free. • Red Hot Chilli Pipers. • Zack Hammond. • Acoustic Night. + Lost State of Dance. • Ashleigh Humble. ARC, Stockton. £22.50 Adv. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. Cosy Dove, Newcastle. Musiclounge, Stockton. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. • Whirling Dervish presents: • Valentine Promotions Presents: • Rendevouz. The Robin, Jarrow. Free. Swilly Chill + The Retrobutes Laurence Jones + Auld Man’s Baccie. • Laetitia Sadier Source Ensemble • Gasto Promotion Presents: £5.00 - 12TH MAY 2017 + Batsch. The Sagtchi Sugiyama Band • Six O Six. Legacy, Sunderland. Free. + Michael Poole. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.00. Sage, Gateshead. + King Size Voodoo Traveller. • Oasis and Jam tribute. TSOne, Middlesbrough. Free. • Classic Clapton. Redcar Citizen Club. WESTGARTH SOCIAL CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH • Eastside Events Presents: Forum Music Centre, Darlington. £10.00. The Tavern, Blyth. Free. • Heistz. Trillians, Newcastle. • DVD. Billingham Catholic Club, Billingham. The Toasters. • The Casinos. • Ocean. O’Gradys, Redcar. • The Kooks, 02 Academy, Newcastle • Samantha Holden Band. • The Quireboys. Station Hotel, Loftus. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £8.00. The Spring Gardens, North Shields, Free Friday 28th April • Showhawk Duo. • Jump the Gun. Riverside, Newcastle. £22.00. • The Persuaders. The Cluny, Newcastle. £15.00. Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free. • Led Zeppelin Masters. • Mojo Roller. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. Saltburn House, Saltburn • Riley’s Live Buskers. • Plugged Out: Ashleigh Humble. City Hall, Newcastle. £39.00. • Trappist. • Pek and Wanley The Three Tuns, Gateshead. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Cleadon. Free. • Boneshakers. The Normanby, Middlesbrough. Free. Houghton Rugby Club, Houghton, Free. • The Casinos. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. • Tees Music Alliance Presents: • Cortney Dixon Thursday 20th April The Spring Gardens, North Shields. Free. Bryan Adams Experience. The Black Bull, Boldon, Free FOR OUR SECOND BIRTHDAY Sunday 23rd April Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £6.00 Adv. • Ian Campbell NE VOLUME MAGAZINE • Tees Hot Club. • Chevrons. O’Gradys, Redcar. PRESENTS AN EXCLUSIVE Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. • The Gig Cartel presents: • Solothus + Seprevation + Decrepid • Urban Voodoo Machine. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Cleadon, Free STRIPPED-BACK SHOW! • Whirling Dervish Presents: LiveWire – The AC/DC Show. + Live Burial + Uncoffined. The Cluny, Newcastle. £15.00. • Easy Tiger. Legacy, Sunderland, Free Trillians, Newcastle. £6.00 OTD. • SSD Concerts + Soul Kitchen Present: • Scratch. GET YOUR TICKETS AT Mr Bigfoot + Moon Rover + Alien8. The Cluny, Newcastle. £15.00. www.seetickets.com TSOne, Middlesbrough. Free. • Pilgrim + Kikamora. Trillians, Newcastle. • Cortney Dixon + Louisiana Grace. Hit The North. Elmfield Social Club, Hebburn, Free. • Wire. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. £36.00 Adv. • Scratch The Surface Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £15.00 Adv. Saturday 22nd April • Ben Poole + Mitch Laddie. • Rap RnB Paul Longstaff. The Runhead, Ryton, Free. • Busker Variety Night. • Record Store Day. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.00. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Jonny Sax Musiclounge, Stockton. Live Music at Various Record Stores. • Patent Pending. • Desilva. O’Gradys, Redcar. Westoe, South Shields, Free. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. £13.50 Adv. • Northern Soul Night. WANT TO • Elektriqa Live Presents: • Two Blueband. Sunday 30th April Timmy Trumpet. Saltburn House, Saltburn • St George’s Day: Clash City Rockers Forum Music Centre, Darlington. £3.50. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Big Muddy Jazz & Blues Band. + Rigid Digits. • Punk Pop Disaster. Trillians, Newcastle. • Tees Music Alliance Presents: ADVERTISE IN • Bloodstock BOTB. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Mojo Hand. The Suggestibles. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £7.50 Adv. Trillians, Newcastle. Free. • Sabella + Social Room + Unspoken Monday 24th April + Jacob Lynch. • Duo Revolver. • Los Campesinos. Friday 21st April Musiclounge, Stockton. • Tees Music Alliance Presents: Alabama 3. Marine Hotel, Seaton Carew The Cluny, Newcastle. £14.00. • Plugged Out Presents: • Borderland. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £20.00 Adv. • Stephen Mordue • The Nightingales + Blue Orchids Ashleigh Humble The Voyager, South Shields. Free. • Orkestra Mendoza. Sage, Gateshead. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Cleadon, Free. + Year of Birds. GET YOUR GIG OR Westgarth, Middlesbrough. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Cleadon, Free. • The Graham Henderson Experience. Wednesday 26th April Saturday 29th April BUSINESS OUT THERE • Sugarstone. Station Hotel, Loftus. Billingham Catholic Club, Billingham. £11.00 Adv/£13.00 OTD. FROM AS LITTLE AS • Tadpole Pie. • The Springsteen Sessions. • Acoustic Night. Cosy Dove, Newcastle. • Northern Soul Night. • Michael Kiwanuka. Sage, Gateshead. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £14.00. • Michael Chapman + Ehud. Musiclounge, Stockton. • The Missing Cats + The Horizontal Men. • 21st-22nd: RedSka Festival, Redcar. • Saichi Sugiyama Band. The Cluny 2, The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £14.00. • “Live” by the Sea Featuring John The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. £65.00! • Sugar B’s. Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. Newcastle. £10.00. • Riley’s Live Buskers. Bramwell (I Am Kloot) + Dave Fidler. • Whirling Dervish All-Day Seshun III. • Tees Music Alliance Presents: • SPE Presents: Sex Pistol Experience. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. The Spa Hotel, Saltburn. £12.00. TSOne, Middlesbrough. Free. The Wytches. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. £14.06 Adv. • Sleeze Sisters. • Rabble Rousers. Thursday 27th April CONTACT LEE AT Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £7.50 Adv. • SKA Toons. The Voyager, South Shields. Free. The Ivy House, Sunderland. • The Big Chris Barber Band. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. £3.00. • Busker Variety Night. • The Band for Disease Control and • Shiver. Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Free [email protected] Customs House, South Shields. £21.50. • Scratch the Surface. Musiclounge, Stockton. Prevention Album Launch. • Keeping The Rave Alive The Stone Trough, Gateshead. Free. • Dave Arcari. The Cluny, Newcastle. £6.00. Jumpin’ Jacks, Newcastle. £5.50 Adv. 02 Academy, Newcastle

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