WWW.NEVOLUME.CO.UK

AT NEWCASTLE’S WOLF ALICE 02 ACADEMY! WE’RE LISTENING! AUTOBAHN AT KU BAR! LUMIERE FESTIVAL DURHAM! ISSUE #28 NOV 2017 WE INTERVIEW CHRIS JERICHO! POST-MORTEM OF SPARKS IN NEWCASTLE! FOLLOW NE VOLUME ON SOCIAL ANDREW JOHNSON’S LATEST EP! ARTIST SPOTLIGHT - THE SKAPONES! MEDIA SONGS FROM NORTHERN BRITAIN AT THE GEORGIAN THEATRE!

PICK UP OUR FREE NORTH EAST MUSIC/CULTURE MAGAZINE! LET’S GET EVEN LOUDER NORTH EAST VOLUME!!!!! NEWS! FEATURES! WELCOME! Thank you so much for picking up PG.5 Gig Preview: PG.23 Business Spotlight: KU Bar, The Selecter/The Beat Stockton! NE Volume magazine - the magazine at 02 Academy, Newcastle! produced by local music and culture fans, PG.24 Songs From Northern Britain! for local music and culture fans. PG.6 Gig Preview: So I had a little think in October about Autobahn at KU Bar, Stockton! PG.25 Grave Festival! how I can further help local bands/ artistes and businesses and I’ve decided PG.7 Gig Preview: INTERVIEWS! that, from around January, I’ll be setting Blackbeard’s Teaparty at The Hut, up an NE Volume podcast whereby I’ll be Goathland! PG.26 Milburn! speaking with those involved in the local PG.27 ! music scene on a weekly basis (with the PG.10 Gig Preview: interview aired online and posted in this The Cravats at Westgarth Social PG.28 Wolf Alice! magazine). If you’d be interested in joining Club, Middlesbrough! PG.30 The Darkness! me at the NE Volume office for a little chat please email me at info@nevolume. Gig Preview: PG.12 Profumo! Into Tomorrow’s Upcoming Gigs! PG.31 co.uk. Anyhow, so here’s what to look out for this month. In this edition we chat PG.32 Embrace! PG.13 Gig Preview: to Wolf Alice as they prepare to play the Out of the Shadows at Teesside SU! PG.39 Holy Moly & The Crackers! 02 Academy; we provide you with our honest opinion of Twister at The Georgian PG.40 Mythra! Theatre in Stockton; we keep you up-to- CULTURE CORNER! date with what’s happening in the region PG.16 Theatre: GIG REVIEWS! this month including: Autobahn at KU Mother’s Bloomers at ARC! Bar in Stockton, Byker Grave Festival at PG.46 Sparks at Boiler Shop! in Newcastle, and Out of the PG.17 Comedy: PG.47 Twister at The Georgian Theatre! Shadows at Teesside SU; in our culture John Bishop at Metro Radio Arena! section we preview the Idea Home PG.48 The Pretenders at City Hall! Show at MIMA in Middlesbrough, and so PG.18 Art: much more. Just to remind you, if you’ll Exhibition of Hidden be running an event or bringing any new Photography at Abject Gallery! /EP/SINGLE REVIEWS! material out in November/December/ Crease, St. Buryan, Swears, January then please email our team at Event: PG.50 PG.20 Tomorrow Is Lost, Jack Fox & [email protected] and we’ll do all Durham Lumiere Festival! The Harbourmaster, Andrew we possibly can to include a review/news Johnson piece in our December edition which will ARTIST SPOTLIGHT! be released on Friday 1st December. PG.52- NOVEMBER GIG LISTINGS! PG.22 The Skapones! Lee Allcock, Editor - NE Volume Magazine

Venue box office opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-4pm (Thurs 12pm-6pm) • Ticket Prices Subject to Booking Fees 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 ticketweb.co.uk • seetickets.com • gigantic.com • ticketmaster.co.uk 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 PREVIEW: THE USE NE VOLUME SELECTER TO PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS/BAND/LOCAL BUSINESS! + THE BEAT AT 02 ACADEMY, NEWCASTLE Promote your events, band and your local Written by Adam Urwin business to more than 16,000 music and Photography by John Coles culture fans in the North East! Think of stand-out 2-Tone bands from This magazine, with a readership of 16,000+, is a fantastic CONTACT across the years and The Selecter tool for local gig and event promoters, bands and North and The Beat probably come to East businesses to market themselves to local audiences. NE Volume is a North East magazine delivered FREE to mind. The two iconic bands are on a range of communities in the North East - covering a co-headlining tour of the UK and Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington, Redcar, are stopping off at Newcastle’s 02 Newcastle, , and many more. Our next issue GIG PREVIEW: Academy on Saturday 18th November will be out on Friday 1st December so get in touch now EDITOR: LEE ALLCOCK to bring their sensational Ska sound to get involved! LISTINGS: EMILY HOOK back to the North East. Both bands have been busy in the recording studio BUILDING producing new with tracks that We produce adverts in eighth, quarter, CREATIVE: TOM BROWN half, full page and double page spreads. - are consistent with their hits from If you would like a full NE Volume across the years. The Selecter, with advertising pack sent out, please contact Contact information BRIDGES a new studio album released on 6th [email protected] or call us on 01642 Email: [email protected] | Phone: 01642 237348 October 2017 titled ‘Daylight’, features 237348. AT THE STUDIO’S www.nevolume.co.uk/contact their latest single, ‘Frontline’, which has already made it onto the BBC Our trained journalists can write your copy while our UPCOMING GIGS IN Radio 6 music playlist - a sure sign of professional designers can help to put your adverts together. So whatever your requirements are, we are MIDDLESBROUGH the quality of the album. The Beat also released their fourth studio album, here to help! Magazine designed by Tom Brown Graphic Design. For quotes on Design and Consultancy services contact Tom Brown at: Written by Lee Allcock ‘Bounce’, on 30th September this [email protected] | www.tbgraphics.co.uk year featuring Ranking Roger.This is a The chances are that most Teessiders partnership between bands, and close don’t know that there is a music venue awesome repertoire of the legendary friends, that is set to do great things in Linthorpe that has hosted 45 gigs in satirical , Jake Thackray. On his once again. This isn’t the first time NE Volume is a proud supporter of the last six years. And that venue is called latest album, ‘The Lost Will and Testament they’ve played together. As recently as The Studio at Toft House, located on The of Jake Thackray’, Watterson presents to last December, both bands played live LET'S GET SOCIAL! Avenue, hiding behind the Middlesbrough the world a collection of songs that Jake from Maida Vale for Steve Lamacq’s Little Theatre Club. Following a sell-out gig never got around to recording. The first Christmas Ska Party on BBC Radio 6 by Attila the Stockbroker in December weekend in December sees the impeccably -a special venue for two special bands. 2011, ‘Building Bridges at the Studio’ tight folk-rock trio, The Jon Strong Band, Their presence in 2-Tone music is was set up to showcase poets, political return to action after a long lay-off. They’ve as important today as it ever was. In and folk singers who had toured with RY Cooder, Van Morrison, the current political climate, it seems previously not appeared in this area before. Robert Palmer, Talk Talk, Danny Thompson appropriate that the two bands, just The man behind Building Bridges, and Clannad. With original members Roy like they did 30 years ago, are out Leigh Sayers, who describes himself as: Whyke on drums, Duncan Waller on bass there among their fans, delivering their “an independent loss-making part- and Jon Strong on dazzling acoustic guitar iconic sound. With over 30 shows time promoter of unpopular music in and booming, passionate vocals, this could on this tour including visits to New Middlesbrough” told me: “People still be the tightest three-piece band you will Zealand, Australia and Scandinavia both come up to me after gigs and say, ‘What see all year. The highly respected local bands are back and ready to go. FOLLOW US TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE NORTH EAST ‘MvC Live Sessions and Signed Memorabilia Auctions fund a great night - I didn’t even know this songwriter, Pete Davies, provides support. The Selecter and The Beat play state of the art cancer equipment/initiatives into the NHS place existed”’. November sees the For further information about upcoming Newcastle’s 02 Academy on Saturday and vital awareness campaigns’ MUSIC AND CULTURE SCENES! WWW.NEVOLUME.CO.UK first-time visit to Middlesbrough for the gigs at The Studio at Toft House, The 18th November. Published monthly by NE Volume. Printed by JAK HQ Limited (www.jakinc.uk) terrifically talented John Watterson. His Avenue, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough head to Tickets, priced at £28.65 in advance, www.musicvcancer.com Unit 4 Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY. [email protected] single-minded mission is to keep alive the mltmiddlesbrough.org.uk/studio. are available now from seetickets.com. For more information please contact [email protected] @musicvcancer | /musicvcancer

4 5 NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS

GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: GEM ARTS’ BLACKBEARD’S NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS TEAPARTY

Photography by Pallab Mondal + DOOMFOLK AT

GemArts is flying through their Autumn/ THE HUT, GOATHLAND Winter season; featuring world-class Written by Wayne Madden musicians from the UK and abroad, and incredible collaborations between Indian classical, Bollywood and , while also It’s not often that you’re able to talk delivering workshops with community about something new in the review groups and schools across the region. world - so often is it the case that Continuing throughout this month, bands and venues have such a rich GemArts Riverside Ragas presents an tapestry of history woven into the out of this world performance from fabric of their scene - but it’s a delight rising star Debasmita Bhattacharya (Fri to be able to say that this performance 3rd Nov) on Sarod, accompanied by one is a first, both for The Hut as a live of the UK’s top Tabla players, Gurdain GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: music venue and for Musicport who Rayatt, at Sage . Picking up the are presenting the affair. Close to the Sarod at the age of 6 was not without its North Yorkshire Moors, ‘Lighthouse challenges, but Debasmita’s dedication Nights’ will be bringing a fantastic and skill can be seen in her performances, AUTOBAHN XSLF community feeling to every event, and the accolades and awards she has which promises not to disappoint on already received. Audiences at Riverside + ABEL RAISE THE CAIN AT COWPEN CLUB, its maiden voyage.Blackbeard’s Tea Ragas enjoy captivating concerts from Party is no stranger to the circuit, as leading lights of the Indian classical music + MOSAIC SUN BILLINGHAM one would expect, with appearances scene, with free pre-concert talks and at Glastonbury and Cambridge Folk masterclasses from those in the know. AT KU BAR, STOCKTON Written by Kyrie Morris Festival just two notable additions. Join GemArts from 7:00pm for an Written by Thomas Anderson Their most recent album, ‘Reprobates’, in-conversation before XSLF will be taking to the stage of was released in 2015, with tracks like at 7:45pm. Working with Durham Leeds-based post-punk outfit, Autobahn, Billingham’s Cowpen Club on Friday 17th ‘The Devil’s Doorbell’ and ‘The Ballad University’s Musicon concert series, will be hitting Stockton this month November for what promises to be an of William Kidd’ you’d be forgiven for GemArts welcomes an accomplished when they take over the iconic KU Bar, energetic evening of live music. thinking it bore a striking resemblance musician, Josh Feinberg (Tue 14th Nov) in a dark and dramatic winter gig. This Belfast punk rock band, Stiff Little Fingers, to Scottish Pirate metal (yes, that’s a to the beautiful surroundings of St Chad’s will be the bands’ second to last gig of crashed onto the music scene in the thing) act Alestorm. Arrrr-lass (and College. Josh is one of the best-kept the month in support of their epic and 1970s, in which time they released four I hope my editor allows me to keep secrets of the Hindustani music scene. highly-anticipated second album, ‘Moral Sun adds sparkly and funky melodies to albums before going their separate ways. that in there), Blackbeard’s Tea Party Beginning his training in and Crossing’, which will be premièred in their often soulful tracks which makes Years later in 2013, former band members have a much more folk-orientated western classical jazz at an early age, their hometown at the beginning of the for a memorable live experience. Also Henry Cluney and Jim Reilly, along with sound but do indeed talk of the Josh made the move to Sitar in his teens. month. Expect gloomy yet strangely supporting is local Teesside band, Abel bassist Ave Tsarion, joined forces to form Snide Remarks, Newcastle’s LoGOz pirates and their infamous kin. Known and loved by top musicians uplifting hooks and rhythms along with a Raise the Cain, who will be coming back XSLF. The band is set to play an array of and Leeds four-piece, Guttersluts - all of The latter track should not be and audiences alike, he represents the Joy Division-esque musical soundscape, to the live scene with a vengeance since Stiff Little Fingers material from the first whom have built themselves a respectable similarly confused with the band future of sitar and the growing diversity layered on top of that distinct new-wave releasing their latest album, ‘For Strangers three albums, in which Cluney and Reilly reputation throughout the North East Running Wild, who also released a of Hindustani music. Josh has a fresh vocal tone. Only’. There’s truly nothing quite like were both involved in producing. Tracks and are mutually influenced by the likes song about William Kidd. For a bonus approach to sitar with something unique The first support act of the night an Abel gig. Combining epic orchestral that fans can expect to hear include of Sex Pistols and The Ramones. Bassist point at your next pub quiz, Kidd was to say. For truly global, forward-thinking is Mosaic Sun - an up-and-coming instrumentation with dramatic and ‘Barbed Wire Love’, ‘Nobody’s Hero’, ‘At Ave Tsarion said, “Both on the road and a Scottish sailor who was executed music, GemArts and Jazz North East alternative-groove-indie band from memorable choruses, they’re a band that the Edge’, ‘Alternative Ulster’ and more. in the studio, we share that Belfast affinity in 1701 following piracy in the Indian invite Sandrani to The Jazz Café (Fri 24th Newcastle. Their latest EP, ‘Living in the makes you shut up and listen. Overall, it’s XSLF will also be performing music from that makes XSLF what it is – real, raw Ocean. Nov). An ensemble fusing classical Indian Future’, was released in August and, a tight and exciting line-up for local music their ever-growing catalogue of originals, a and rockin’. Personally, I love blasting out Traditional rock and tunes with a hard Raag and folk song with Western-style although not getting a massive amount fans to sink their teeth into. combination which is sure to make for an tunes to such enthusiastic rockers who folk edge, Blackbeard’s Tea Party are grooves, African music, and improvisations, of exposure in the public eye, it’s Autobahn play KU Bar, Stockton on Friday energetic, punk-fuelled evening. appreciate music as much as we do.” supported on the night by DoomFolk. Sandrani make music that is both exciting nothing short of brilliant. The five-piece 24th November with support coming Revellers can expect great things as the XSLF will play Billingham’s Cowpen Club Blackbeard’s Teaparty and Doomfolk yet easily accessible for all. has a unique and iconic sound that is from Abel Raise the Cain and Mosaic Sun. band will be bringing along three support on Friday 17th November. Advance play The Hut, Goathland on Saturday To find out more and to keep up-to-date very different to most bands on the Advance tickets, priced at £5.50 (including acts to help warm the crowd up for tickets, priced at £10.00, are available from 25th November. with all GemArts’ events visit circuit right now. Although using the booking fee), are available from their hugely anticipated set. The line-up wegottickets.com. Tickets OTD are priced Tickets, priced at £10.00, are available www.gemarts.org. common uplifting indie hooks, Mosaic seetickets.com. will include Teesside-based punk rockers at £12.00. from musicportfestival.com.

6 7 THE HAMBLETON GROUP BUSINESS CENTRE, FLECK WAY, THORNABY, TS17 9JZ TEL: 01642 763322 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am - 4:00pm NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS

GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEWS: FRET! FAST FOWARD + LOVELY WIFE PROMOTIONS’ + SNAKES DON’T UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS BELONG IN ALASKA AT TRILLIANS, NEWCASTLE Written by Adam Hutchinson Established in 2016, Teesside- Written by Wayne Madden promoters Fast Forward Promotions Photography by Chris Moody are continuing to thrive - and they have a number of special gigs lined up Saved from closure not long ago, it’s for you to get excited about. First up, difficult not to smile when I see another they will be bringing garage rock group gig scheduled at Trillians. Promoted as an The Fallen Leaves to the Westgarth evening of Ting, Sanatogen, & Buckfast, it’s Social Club in Middlesbrough on unlikely to be the first or last time you’ll Saturday 4th November. With 13 see this trio of performers. Snakes Don’t years of experience under their Belong in Alaska describe themselves GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: belts, The Fallen Leaves have toured as ghetto-tech space-rock psych. I’m extensively around the UK, performing not sure I even know what that is, but their diverse back catalogue and I do credit them for being named after THE CRAVATS managing to thoroughly entertain their a quote in one of my favorite video OMD fascinated fans with each performance. games of all time. And, being honest, if + TURNING BLACK LIKE AT SAGE, GATESHEAD Next up for the promoters, and on they didn’t name themselves after that their 40th-anniversary tour, nostalgic reference, then it’s a real coincidence LIZARDS + PELLETHEAD Written by Caitlin Thompson act Penetration will be headlining that the output they produce sounds the Westgarth on Saturday 18th as monastic and coral as the games’ + YEAR OF BIRDS New-wave pioneers Orchestral November. With a vast back catalogue original soundtrack. The questionable Manoeuvres in the Dark, colloquially to perform, their latest tour is set attire of Lovely Wife aside (by their own AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL known as OMD, first rose to to celebrate all of the band’s work admission), the tracks are considerably CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH prominence in the early 1980s with and is sure to be one to remember heavier and more sonically assaulting synth-pop classics such as ‘Electricity’ for their local fans. The promoters than their predecessors. If you’re a fan of Written by Kyrie Morris (1979) and ‘Enola Gay’ (1980). will then bring The Len Price 3 to sludge, doom or whatever Opeth have The band’s success culminated in a the same venue on Friday 24th managed to invent, this is a sound you Brighton-based punk connoisseurs, The his show a further three times across contribution to the soundtrack of cult November. The 3-piece, who recently will adore.If the Beach Boys had been Cravats, are set to make an appearance the coming years, as well as producing favourite ‘Pretty in Pink’ (1986) with ‘If featured on BBC 6 sessions alongside born in the 90s and grown up listening at Middlesbrough’s Westgarth Social multiple singles and two albums. Now, You Leave’ (1986), a song specifically Supergrass, has continually toured to Kurt Cobain and the Smashing Club on Saturday 2nd December. It 40 years later, they’re still producing new written for the movie, charting at around the region, gathering a loyal Pumpkins they probably wouldn’t have will be the third time that Teesside has material as September 2017 saw the number four on the Billboard Hot 100. promote excellence through music. Since fan-base who has supported the band been very successful surfers - and they had the pleasure of playing host to the release their new LP, ‘Dustbin of Sound’. Despite splitting in 1996, OMD its opening, the venue has attracted a since their formation. Expect catchy also probably would have sounded like band, who’ll be accompanied by some It’s safe to say that The Cravats are well announced their reunion in 2006 and number of talented international acts and hooks performed to an enthusiastic Fret! Their sound is mirrored on the extremely talented support acts. and truly back. Their raucous, sax- have remained a fixture of the British served as a reminder to all of the passion Middlesbrough audience. And finally, fact that they can produce the collective It’s been 40 years since The Cravats fell drenched sound is as staggeringly unique music scene ever since – with ‘The for music that exists in the region. for the promoter’s last gig of the assault of a large truck impacting with under the influence of the punk rock now as it was all those years ago, and will Punishment of Luxury’ (2017) charting Despite the unflattering perception of year, they’ll be going out with a bang the hard shoulder. There are moments of scene in a Birmingham club. In 1977, be sure to leave revelers buzzing with at number four in the UK upon its the North East that undeniably exists as they bring rock outfit The Filthy surprise, at one point during ‘Freeman’ I Barbarellas was a hot spot for energy. Gig-goers can also look forward release. In support of their latest album, in certain quarters, the talent keeps Tongues to the Westgarth on Saturday felt the band were about to break into emerging talent - it was here that the to sets from three critically-acclaimed OMD are scheduled to perform at the on flowing and the crowds don’t die 9th December. The Edinburgh-based ‘Heart Shaped Box’, but I realised that likes of The Prefects and Suburban Studs punk rock bands - Turning Black Like Sage, Gateshead on Wednesday 22nd down – having critically-acclaimed bands act shows real passion and conviction their brutal sonic is only matched with graced the stage, both captivating and Lizards, Pellethead, and Year of Birds. November. This isn’t the first time, consistently returning to the region is during their live performances and this a tinder and unique female vocal that inspiring their audience. Two years later, This will be an evening of live music which either, that the band has performed in proof enough of that.The North East set will prove to be no different. haunts as it flickers like a light in the The Cravats recorded their first session will undoubtedly quench Teesside’s thirst the North East in recent years having region is a hub of musical exuberance Tickets for all of Fast Forward darkness. for the John Peel Show on BBC Radio for punk. also played the Sage in support of and it’s only a matter of time before Promotions’ gigs can be found online Catch Fret, Lovely Wife and Snakes 1 and were duly offered a recording Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, are ‘English Electric’ (2013).Located on people begin to notice. at fastforwardpromotions.co.uk where Don’t Belong in Alaska at Trillians, contract with Small Wonder Records. available from seetickets.com or the the south bank of the and Doors open at 7.30pm with tickets, you can also find out more about the Newcastle on Tuesday 7th November. John Peel continued to rally his support venue. Tickets on the door are priced at managed by the North Music Trust, priced at £38.10, available from promoters and all of their past and This is a free entry event. for the group who would appear on £15.00. the Sage was designed to inspire and sagegateshead.com. upcoming shows.

10 11 NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS

GIG PREVIEWS: GIG PREVIEW: INTO OUT TOMORROW’S UPCOMING SHOWS ON OF THE TEESSIDE SHADOWS Written by Kyrie Dawson AT TEESSIDE STUDENT Teesside-based music promoters, Into Tomorrow, have announced two very UNION, MIDDLESBROUGH special dates across November. The Georgian Theatre in Stockton will Written by Kyrie Dawson play host to London-based reggae sensations, The Hempolics, on Friday Teesside University will be joining forces 10th and psychedelic-four piece, Syd with North East based charity, ARCH Arthur, on Friday 17th. Into Tomorrow GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: North East, to present what’s been not only stage gigs, but they’re also described as ‘An eclectic feast of music’. building a community filled with ‘Out of the Shadows’ will take place in The like-minded music lovers from across Hub of Teesside University’s renowned the country; whether they be bands, JOHN AYANNA Student Union on Friday 24th November artists, bloggers, reviewers, radio and promises to supply revellers with their presenters or other promoters. They required dose of live music. ARCH North pride themselves on “Bringing the POWER WITTER- East is a registered charity based within stars of tomorrow to Teesside today”, Teesside, offering free and confidential which is exactly what they’ve done this AT NORTHALLERTON support to those who have been affected month. The Hempolics combine the JOHNSON by rape or sexual violence. The charity ingredients of reggae, electro, hip-hop, TOWN HALL has helped thousands of people already, rock and pop, all shaken up to create a AT THE BLACK SWAN, right across the region, and needs your cocktail of sunshine, reflected in their Written by Reece Hanrahan support to continue helping others. Their debut album ‘Kiss, Cuddle and Torture: NEWCASTLE contribution has widely been recognised, Volume 1’. The album has recently been is a powerhouse singer- and in September a member of the team 6Music’s record of the day and has songwriter who has firmly interwoven Written by Scott Forbes and Julian Siegel, she’s also toured with won a National award for their support featured on Liz Kershaw’s All-Time Top himself within the rich fabric of the British through crowd sourcing website Pledge Laura Mvula, Norah Jones, and Anouska of survivors through the criminal justice 30 ‘All Killer No Filler’ chart. In terms musical tradition. Best known as the Music; however, the production process After playing The Jazz Café nearly a Shankar, recorded with Marc Mac and system. The bands taking to the stage are of Syd Arthur, their unique modern frontman of the triumphant Britpop band was met with delays.John Power is now year ago to the day of her date at Ankala and composed for the London Hartlepool’s The Jar Family, Billingham’s twist on psych-rock has captured Cast (who once likened due to play a solo set at the Northallerton The Black Swan, Newcastle is again Symphony Orchestra. Such is her ability Mouses, Stockton’s Head of Light widespread interest across the music to seeing live as a “religious experience”, Town Hall on Saturday 4th November blessed with the sheer talent of Ayanna that she can deftly straddle these many Entertainment, and Newcastle’s Talk Like industry. Their album ‘Apricity’ has been a bold statement from someone who where he’ll be supported by Ross McShane Witter-Johnson. The singer-songwriter musical genres and produce music that Tigers. These four North East acts boast a critically-acclaimed, receiving 4 stars in identifies as an Agnostic), John Power has (previously a member of Vida, a Scottish and multi-instrumentalist has had a not only has soul and originality but wide variety of genres between them, from Mojo, Q and The Guardian, plus a ‘Best also played bass in the renowned indie psychedelic band) and Jack Fletcher. The breakthrough 12 months; after a spell- also its own voice. Last year’s gig was lo-fi to industrial folk, and amongst them Album’ nomination in the 2016 Prog band The La’s (and featured on their best- gig will offer a chance to get up close and binding performance at the Apollo in one of the highlights of the year for The they’ve gained widespread support from Magazine Awards. Support for Syd known hit ‘There She Goes’) and released personal with a British music icon - and Harlem (she had won a scholarship Jazz Café with a packed house meaning various UK-based radio stations including Arthur comes from Middlesbrough’s three successful solo albums. fans should expect to hear Cast hits such to study at the Manhattan School of that moving to Newcastle Arts Centre’s BBC Tees and BBC Radio 6. If you feel like Crease and Billingham/Hartlepool’s Cast completed their long-awaited sixth as ‘Walkaway’, ‘Finetime’ and ‘Alright’ mixed Music), she was nominated for a MOBO other, bigger venue this year will be ingesting this‘eclectic feast of music’, as well Silver Trees. studio album, ‘’, in with songs from Power’s three solo albums award in 2016, impressing everyone met with the same anticipation. And as helping out an amazing cause, then be Tickets for both gigs are £8.00 in April this year after signing to Creation ‘Happening for Love’, ‘Willow She Weeps’ with a stripped-back cello-led version of given that this is a northern exclusive sure to get yourself down to the event advance. The Hempolics gig, running in Management, the new management and ‘Stormbreaker’. Overall, this is a ‘Roxanne’. Ayanna is currently recording for Ayanna, it’s safe to say the feeling’s - it’ll be an evening to remember. Tickets, association with Bonus Grooves, will company set up by Alan McGee brilliant opportunity to see a master of his her debut album following two EP mutual. Ayanna Witter-Johnson plays The priced at £10.00 in advance or £12.00 on take place on Friday 10th November (previously owner of Creation Records, craft at work and drawing from what has releases since 2011 - and those that have Black Swan, Newcastle on Friday 7th the door, are available from eventbrite. and tickets are available from seetickets. the label behind musical legends such as been a memorable music career. Drop in, witnessed her honey-soaked vocals and December. co.uk (search ARCH North East). All com. The Syd Arthur gig, running in Primal Scream, The Jesus & Mary Chain, tune out and relax. ingenious arrangements first-hand will be Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, are tickets purchased will include entry into association with TMA, will take place Oasis and My Bloody Valentine) and Simon John Power plays Northallerton Town Hall eagerly anticipating its arrival. available by calling The Jazz Café on 0191 the University’s Hub Night Club, so the on Friday 17th November with tickets Fletcher. The album was due to be released on Saturday 4th November. Tickets, priced Having recorded with revered jazz 222 9882 from noon Tuesday to Saturday. music doesn’t have to stop when the gig now on sale at teesmusicalliance.org.uk. in 2016 after the band raised funds at £12.50, are available from seetickets.com. performers Courtney Pine, Jason Yarde Tickets on the door are priced at £12.00. does. Doors open at 7.00pm.

12 13 Sunday Market The Quayside, Every Sunday 9am – 4pm

A vibrant and flourishing street market along the river from the Guildhall to Gateshead Millennium Bridge, whether you’re a foodie or fashion conscious, a browser or a buyer the Quayside Market offers fresh and local, traditional and modern, history and culture. There really is something for everyone.

Phone: 0191 211 5512 Email: [email protected] www.newcastle.gov.uk www.twitter.com/Nclmarkets Newcastle-upon-Tyne-Markets

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

SATURDAY 18TH NOVEMBER FRIDAY 27TH OCTOBER BE QUIET SHOUT LOUD FLASH + DANNY DEVON & THE TURQUOISE TRIO A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN

SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER FRIDAY 24TH NOVEMBER FOUR FIGHTERS AUTOBAHN ULTIMATE FOO FIGHTERS TRIBUTE + ABEL RAISE THE CAIN & MOSAIC SUN

SATURDAY 25TH NOVEMBER SATURDAY 4TH NOVEMBER + FLEETINGWOOD MAC THE COURTEENERS A SPECIAL TRIBUTE NIGHT TO DOUBLE TRIBUTE SHOW

SATURDAY 11TH NOVEMBER THE STONE ROSES SATURDAY 2ND DECEMBER + THE STONES ULTIMATE TRIBUTE NIGHT UK’S PREMIER TRIBUTE TO THE ROLLING NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER ART: COMEDY: IDEA HOME SHOW JOHN BISHOP EXHIBITION AT MIMA, AT METRO RADIO ARENA, MIDDLESBROUGH NEWCASTLE Photography by Samuel Levack and Jennifer Written by Meghan Ewart Lewandowski Liverpool comedian, presenter Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art and actor John Bishop returns to (MIMA) launches its autumn season Newcastle this month with his with Idea Home Show, an exhibition that how people live in the UK. A recent report We are continuing this tradition using ‘Winging It’ tour. The comedian has contributes to the urgent debate around by Shelter, ‘Shut out: the barriers low-income this season’s programme to fire up the come a long way since making his TV housing. Open now, Idea Home Show households face in private renting’, highlights debate and to launch new initiatives in debut on the comedy show, The Panel. comedy, Bishop played football at non- Liverpudlian roots, Bishop donated takes a political slant, demonstrating that more than a million households living housing and community building. We are Bishop has starred in a number of self- league clubs Hyde and Southport which £96,000 to the Hillsborough Family how practitioners working between in private rented accommodation are at working actively beyond the gallery, in titled shows including ‘John Bishop’s proved to help the charitable comedian Support Group in acknowledgment art, architecture, design and activism risk of becoming homeless by 2020 because some of Middlesbrough’s most challenged Britain’ (2010/11), ‘John Bishop’s Only during two Soccer Aid matches for of his home town sufferings. The are proposing ground-up solutions to of rising rents, benefit freezes and a lack of areas. These projects include Isabel Lima’s Joking’ (2013) and ‘The John Bishop UNICEF in 2012 and 2016 for . multi-talented comedian returns to homebuilding, actively opposing the social housing provision.“There is an urgent Gresham’s Wooden Horse; working with Show’ (2015). He’s also well known for John’s achievements in comedy began at Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena on corporate interests of the construction need to look at the housing crisis at many residents in North Ormesby; Creative his services to charity. In 2012, Bishop the very beginning when he won Best Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th industry and provoking civic and levels” comments director Alistair Hudson. Age, an initiative involving those living with raised £4.2 million for Sport Relief Male Comedy Breakthrough Artist in November for two dates that are set commercial interest in providing affordable, “It is vital that we re-route development dementia, in partnership with Thirteen; during a five-day, 290-mile triathlon 2010 at the British Comedy Awards. His to be full of laughs from start to finish. good quality, social housing. In February away from a trajectory of profit extraction. our support of design social enterprise from Paris to London, earning him an successes lead him to host a comedy gig Tickets for both of John’s dates, 2017, the government published a white Rather than building to make money we New Boosbeck Industries; and the launch Honorary Fellowship at Liverpool John at The Royal Albert Hall for Teenage priced from £27.50 in advance, are paper titled ‘Fixing Our Broken Housing need to be creating architecture for living. of George Clarke’s MOBIE partnership Moores University for his contribution Cancer Trust using his natural comedy available to purchase now from Market’ in response to growing awareness There is a long history in the relationship with Teesside University.” For further to the arts and charity work.Before talent to aid his committed charity metroradioarena.co.uk. Doors open of, and unrest about, a myriad of issues in among art, architecture, design and society. information head to visitmima.com. embarking on a successful career in work. In May 2014, loyal and true to his at 8:00pm.

THEATRE: EVENT: MOTHER’S BLOOMERS SPIRIT OF THE DRAGON AT ARC, STOCKTON AT THE FIRE STATION, Written by Paul Kemp SUNDERLAND Live performance has paved the way A spectacular live performance will for people of all colours and creeds to mark the opening of Sunderland’s new express themselves and their ideas to a arts hub.The free performance, ‘Spirit world of open-hearted and like-minded of the Dragon’, will be the culmination people. You could argue it’s the very of a £120,000, six-month project re- beauty of art. You could also argue that it’s interpreting the legend of the Lambton simply a recipe for great entertainment Worm and will officially open The Fire After touring their show ‘Drag Me to and a night out that’s both enjoyable and Strength or How to Survive at Your Wit’s Station in Sunderland after a £3.5m have already started across the city in then move to the front of the building Love’, North East based theatre company thought-provoking. End’ - a show all about how we live in a transformation.It will be delivered by preparation for Spirit of the Dragon, led by for a ‘fire show finale.’ The performance Bonnie and The Bonnetes will be Mother’s Bloomers is an exploratory world that can’t slow down. If you’ve ever respected outdoor theatre company Periplum’s three delivery partners – Live will last for about 45 minutes in total performing their new show ‘Our Mums performance platform that champions struggled with anxiety or that sinking feeling Periplum, who were co-commissioned Theatre, Dance City and Sunderland Music and will come after the annual switch- Are Beautiful’ - a show that promises to bold new short works by queer of not being able to keep your emotions by the Cultural Spring and Sunderland Education Hub. Claire Raftery, Artistic on of the Christmas lights. It will be a show us how important our mothers performers - and on Thursday 16th above water, this will be a great watch. Music, Arts and Culture (MAC) Trust. Director at Periplum, said: “Spirit of the mix of local performers and professional were and always be in our lives. November, they will be bringing this The show will also feature visceral and More than 200 local people will be Dragon is starting to come together. performers.” The performance will be a Mother’s Bloomers is priced on a Pay platform to ARC in Stockton. jaw-dropping artistry from performers involved with at least 100 performing We’re delighted the workshops are now mixture of movement, music and drama What You Decide basis, so you can give Starting off the bonanza will be Jon Luke Beth O’Doherty, Virginia Kennard and Jamie in the opening event, which will take underway as they’re a vital part of the and is expected to attract an audience as much or as little as you think the - a singer-songwriter with a penchant for Tansley, with each show bringing across place at the side of, and in front of, project - some of the local stories that of between 1,500 and 2,000 people. show deserves. For further information introspective pieces of music that will have their unique personalities. Expect a deluge The Fire Station on Thursday 23rd we’re told at the workshops will help For further information head to about the performance, or to find out you thinking of warm memories of home. of images and ideas brought forward from November, the same evening as the shape the narrative of the performance. facebook.com/thefirestationsunderland. more about what’s coming up at ARC in Holly Gallagher will also be showcasing subjects ranging from gender identity to city’s Christmas lights switch on in We know now that the performance will Stockton, head to arconline.co.uk. her talent with her performance of ‘Tensile thoughts on marriage. Keel Square.Community workshops start at the side of The Fire Station and

16 17 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER COMEDY: COMEDY: MILTON JONES SUSIE MCCABE AT AT THE STAND, NEWCASTLE Written by Adam Urwin Written by Adam Hutchinson Newcastle prepares to host stand-up Scottish comedian Susie McCabe is set comedian Milton Jones this month as he to return to the region this month as tours the UK with his latest show, ‘Milton part of her ‘Let’s Get Physical Tour’. Jones is Out There’. Susie has been paving her way to Jones’ stand-up success is not just limited success for several years and is to the stage - it spans across TV, radio, and following in the footsteps of her books. To date, he’s made recurring guest Scottish counterparts who have panellist appearances on Mock the Week, seen vast success with their work written several books including ‘Where Do broadcasted on television, such as few years, leading her to build a back missed by any fans of comedy, with Comedians Go When They Die?’, and has Kevin Bridges, who called Susie: “a catalogue of jokes both tried and tested Susie impressing crowds each time she also had various shows on BBC’s Radio 4. the people with more one-liners than they previous tours including ‘The Universe – naturally funny storyteller”. Her on thousands upon thousands around performs with her relatable humour Jones’ wacky one-liner comedy has earned know what to do with. Part 1 – Earth’ (2009),’ Lion Whisperer’ genuine stand-up nature sets her apart the nation. Her upcoming tour, ‘Let’s and witty nature making her a unique him a place on the list as one of the UK’s Jones has also previously won the Perrier (2011), and ‘On The Road’ (2013). from others, with her gifted narrative Get Physical’, will showcase her take on performer amongst the countless top comedy performers, with his surreal Best Newcomer award and is a Sony Expect the unexpected, live among the pieces shining light on the hilarious society’s obsession with getting healthy comedians touring the region. humour and set-ups defining his comedy Award winner and British Comedy Award one-liners, and wear a crazy shirt because going’s on of her past encounters. and will take a humorous perspective Susie McCabe takes to the stage at The and making it appealing in a unique way. nominee. In 2012, Jones’ radio show was also Milton Jones surely will when he takes to With 2 majorly successful solo runs on the nation’s and her own health. Stand Comedy Club, Newcastle on His previous two tours, ‘Milton Jones nominated for the Writers Guild Award and the stage. at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and With each tour different from the last, Sunday 12th November. and the Temple of Daft’(2015) and ‘On he’s just finished its tenth season on Radio 4, Milton Jones will perform at Newcastle sold-out shows across the UK, Susie Susie always cements her status as one Tickets, priced at £11.00, are available the Road’ (2013), were witnessed by providing a proven track record of success City Hall on Saturday 18th November. is a staple of the success amongst of Scotland’s finest talents with her fresh from seetickets.com. Doors open at over 100,000 people and have laid the which he is sure to carry into this new tour. Tickets, priced at £29.00 in advance, are women’s comedy. The Scot has gone comedy - and this tour will prove to be 7:00pm. foundations for his 2017/18 tour to provide Jones has also recorded live DVDs during available from theatreroyal.co.uk. from strength to strength in the last no different.The show is one not to be

ART: COMEDY: EXHIBITION OF HIDDEN CARL HUTCHINSON PHOTOGRAPHY AT ABJECT AT ARC, STOCKTON GALLERY, NEWCASTLE Written by Meghan Ewart Newcastle-born comedian, Carl Photography by Nathalie Daoust Hutchinson, will bring his hilarious award-winning material to Stockton this Abject Gallery in Newcastle is set to host month for what’s set to be a show that’ll an exhibition of hidden photography from have you in a barrel of laughs from start inside the Democratic People’s Republic to finish.The comedian has supported of Korea by Nathalie Daoust. the likes of WWE legend Mick Foley and Photographer Nathalie Daoust’s newest as an individual choice, but as a way of life concealed.“I’ve learnt that things are never fellow Geordie comedian Chris Ramsey project, ‘Korean Dreams’, is a complex forced upon an entire nation. as they seem and that I shouldn’t judge on sell-out UK tours recently, but this series that probes the unsettling vacuity of Daoust deliberately obscures her anyone until I’ve walked in their shoes, headline date gives him the chance to Pub Comedian of the year, highlighting Also, expect witty gags and audience North Korea. Piercing its veil with her lens, photographs during the development stage; or at least taken the time to get to know really showcase his potential. his outstanding commitment and talent interaction from start to finish – don’t these images reveal a country that seems as the layers of film are peeled off, the images them. When I first went to North Korea, Hutchinson started out in comedy in in comedy. The comedian’s debut solo be afraid to get involved.It’s clear to see to exist outside of time, as a carefully are stifled until the facts becomes ‘lost’ in I couldn’t understand why the whole October 2006, having previously been show at Edinburgh Fringe Festival, named how advanced the comedian’s material choreographed mirage. the process and a sense of detachment from country didn’t just rise up and fight for a maths teacher before embarking on a ‘Acceptable?’, was one of the top 10 shows has become through his years on the Daoust has spent much of her career reality is revealed. This darkroom method their rights to freedom after so many jam-packed comedy career. of the Amused Moose Laughter Awards comedy scene so expect to have your exploring the chimeric world of fantasy: mimics the way information is transferred years of oppression and pain. After visiting, Hutchinson’s first achievement, back in 2012. In 2010, he starred in ITV’s FHM tonsils tickled throughout. the hidden desires and urges that compel in North Korea – the photographs, as the however, I now completely understand in 2007, saw him win Manchester’s Comedy Hero and was also part of Tonic’s Carl Hutchinson will perform at ARC, people to dream, to dress up, to move North Korea people, are both manipulated why they can’t,” Nathalie Daous described. Frog and Bucket Beat The Frog World Big Value Edinburgh Showcase in 2011. Stockton on Saturday 4th November. beyond the bounds of convention and to until the underlying truth is all but a blur. The The exhibition preview will take place on Series New Act Competition. He was Carl speaks hilariously with regards to Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, are escape from reality. With ‘Korean Dreams’ resultant pictures speak to North Korean Friday 17th November between 6:00pm also nominated for Leicester Mercury dinner parties with friends, school life and available from arconline.co.uk. Doors she is exploring this escapist impulse not society, of missing information and truth – 9:00pm. Comedian of the Year and Magners marriage – areas a lot of us can relate to. open at 8:00pm. This is a 14+ event.

18 19 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER

LUMIERE FESTIVAL - DURHAM

Written by Samantha Hall feature being the ‘Wheels Of Industry’ (Stu Langley) piece. This interactive artwork was built with the aim to The Lumiere festival is returning to Durham this remind spectators and participants of the energy sources month for the fifth time - and it’s set to be yet at our feet, doing so by inviting guests to board the another unmissable event. Between the 16th and 19th bicycle and pedal on the spot to light up the windows of November, the historical city will be illuminated of a Reliant Robin. Other thought-provoking pieces of with work by artists from around the world, with the past include 2013’s ‘Consumerist Christmas Tree’ the previous Lumiere including artists from Canada, (Luzinterruptus) which aimed to challenge our addiction France, and Australia. The free, city-wide event is to plastic bags and consider the environmental impact produced by Artichoke - a leading arts charity that of our throw-away culture. This was made personal to aims to make exciting and extraordinary art projects the area by using plastic bags that had been donated and events come to life, mainly focussing on turning by Durham locals, really immersing Durham and its public spaces into fantastic, artistic residents in the project. This year, an venues. In 2015, Lumiere shone exciting and touching 3D video will show brighter than ever. With iconic Durham’s public service sector workers pieces such as ‘CLOUD’ (Caitlin “IT’S EXCITING TO SEE on centre stage, revealing the inner life r.c. Brown & Wayne Garrett), of the city and uncovering the stories, ‘Neon Bikes’ (Robyn Wright) and WHAT THE LUMIERE anecdotes, and individuals that interact ‘I Love Durham’ (Jacques Rival), ARTISTS WILL BRING TO with the public on a daily basis. ‘Common it’s exciting to see what the Good’ (Shared Space & Light) will include Lumiere artists will bring to the THE CITY THIS YEAR” 70 participants, from firefighters to city this year. Since the beginning teachers, and will be projected onto the of Lumiere in 2009, Ross Ashton, facade of the Miner’s Hall at Redhills. Robert Ziegler and John Del’Nero’s ‘Crown Of Light’ An extremely busy four nights are expected when has been a major projection piece, projecting images Lumiere comes to town and, although not too much and videos onto Durham’s famous cathedral that shine has officially been announced for the festival (at time of with inspiration from Christianity in the North East. writing), it’s expected to be just as popular as previous This year, however, it has been announced that there’ll years, with 2015 bringing over 200,000 visitors to the be an all-new piece surrounding the cathedral: ‘Methods’ city for the festival. Suitable and exciting for all the by Pablo Valbuena. ‘Methods’ is inspired by the 17th- family, it’s recommended that a constant eye is kept on century art of change ringing - the art of ringing bells small children due to the large crowds that erupt into in numerical sequences that consequently creates Durham’s small and narrow streets.Parking is available brilliant tonal effects. This piece features a collaboration throughout Durham, with a park and ride service with Durham cathedral’s Bell Major (Christopher running day and night. Lumiere is definitely an event that Crabtree) and the Durham Bell team, who have worked can’t be missed. From the spectacular neon lights to the with Pablo to develop the musical score. As well as interactive installments, the extraordinary artistic festival projections, the festival also boasts LED, neon and is one that you will treasure in your memory forever. interactive art, as well as hosting a conference. 2015 For further information head to lumiere-festival.com/ involved a vast range of incredible interactive art, one durham-2017.

20 NE VOLUME ARTIST SPOTLIGHT NE VOLUME BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Photography by Sam Edge

ARTISTSPOTLIGHT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

THE SKAPONES “We were born as Ska boys and we’ll die as Ska boys” KU BAR, STOCKTON “I believe it’s a big part of the Teesside music scene”

Written by Damian Robinson Golding, and engineered by former Special Darlington (Feb 9th) and the other in Written by Reece Hanrahan meeting the headliners/other supports - so former band mate, Jak Benoliel, reflected Mark Adams, the track has the core Ska Edinburgh (Feb 10th). Taking its theme it’s a healthy place to get involved in, plus on his experiences of KU Bar: “KU Bar Darlington 2 Tone and Ska specialists, ingredients of sticking your finger up to from 2 Toners who have loved the genre KU Bar, based on Prince Regent Street we’re all dead nice.”Charles Keen, who has was always the venue to play for any The Skapones, have spent the past few anyone wanting to divide society, whilst for life, Paul added: “The title came from in Stockton, was opened 15 years ago performed at KU Bar in various projects, aspiring local act because you weren’t years ‘quietly’ taking over the Ska world making you dance yourself into a state. our guitarist Mark Wilson and is simply and has steadily gained a reputation as had only praise for the venue: “During the just guaranteed a good gig; you were with their blend of infectious, upbeat, When I caught up with frontman Paul about what we are - Ska boys all our one of the best music venues in the nine years of my time playing in live bands, guaranteed a good night. We played punk-tinged, good time, rock ‘n’ roll. We Williams recently, he confirmed that work lives, from cradle to grave so to speak. North East for both live music and for KU Bar has proved itself to be my ‘spiritual two or three Boxing Day bashes there, say ‘quietly’ as the self-confessed ‘ultimate with Lynval (who is now based in Seattle, We were born as Ska boys and we’ll its various club nights. The venue, now home’ when it comes to gigging. For me, one of which was our reunion and party band’ are, in fact, anything but quiet. USA) had been done remotely and that he die as Ska boys!” Also appearing on owned by Jimmy Beck, has featured KU Bar is one of the greatest venues in (probably) last ever gig and they always Originally created to play the style of had especially gone out and bought a new the album will be ‘Skabilly Yell’, a track legendary acts such as , the North East area. During the early sold out. It was packed from back to music and 2 Tone anthems that the harmonica for the track, which he used to featuring another Specials legend in Mr. Blossoms, Milburn, Pigeon Detectives, days of my musical journey, I had become front every time and you’d be on a members of the band were brought up create the single’s haunting sound. The band Roddy Radiation Byers on guitar and The Enemy, Wolf Alice, The Sherlocks accustomed to playing back rooms of high all night after playing because the on, they’ve since progressed to creating is hoping to grab the Special on his next some vocals. Speaking to Paul, he also and over the years and also pubs to college mates and had no idea atmosphere was always top notch. I’ll their own sounds and foot-stomping tour of the UK to record additional vocals. noted that the band are keen to bring in continues to champion local artists. what difference a professional venue could also never forget our first gig there tunes with the modus operandi of As Paul said: “It’s surreal you know - we ex Bad Manners & Selecter man, Nick I spoke to some people involved in the offer. The first time I played KU Bar, I was supporting Goy Boy Mcilroy. We didn’t making people dance and smile. had pictures of this guy on our bedroom Welsh (AKA, King Hammond) at some local music scene who hold KU Bar very drumming in Randy and the Handstand have a clue who they were at first but Scheduled for release in early 2018, the wall when we were 13.” stage. Summing up their sound, the final dearly in their hearts. KU Bar promoter Band. I will never forget the thud around when we turned up we were all in band’s debut album of original material, Carrying on the maintenance of classic word has to come from Paul: “We’ve and organiser, Simon Shaw, explained the room as I sound checked my bass stitches laughing at their singer, , ‘From Cradle to Grave’, is already gaining punk and Ska principles, ‘From Cradle drawn on some Ska knees up stuff, a the ideas that have made the venue drum - I felt like I had made it! I’ve also backstage (who’s a really funny guy) considerable interest and excitement in to Grave’ will be self-released on the lot of political comment, soul searching a formidable presence on Teesside: “I played with various other bands to which and then they got on stage and totally 2 Tone land, particularly as a result of its bands’ own Cosa Nostra . stuff, and hard-hitting personal stuff – it believe it’s a big part of the ‘Teesside I can say I was a massive fan of, including blew it out of the water. We’ve seen a preceding singles and list of collaborators. Furthermore, it will be produced by has got the lot. Ska, by its own place in music scene’. Myself as a musician before Young Rebel Set, Fly With Vampires and few hidden gems of bands there over Carrying on 2 Tone’s tradition of being a Tinkerman, a specialist in ska, reggae & history and development, is rebel music, I joined the team would always look at Sound of Guns, to name a few. Live music the years.” KU Bar has clearly created genre ‘for the people, by the people’, early dub who has produced a dub remix of the anti-authority, and we’ve tried to maintain KU gigs as the ‘bigger’ gigs in the area aside, KU Bar also offers one of the best some very memorable music moments single releases included the politically- bands’ ‘Midnight Ravers’ track. that.” Watch out for the album to be (amongst a fair few others because club nights around and you will regularly over the years and I’m left with full charged ‘Cost Of A Barrel’, a track Providing an insight into the album, Paul released and the preceding single to drop Teesside has a lot of cool promoters and find me there on a Friday night with a confidence that it will continue to do so. inspired by the Manchester terrorist was also able to confirm that the title track early next year, including their 2 nights venues) because of the opportunities soco and lemonade in hand. KU offers the To keep up-to-date with KU Bar, and attack and focused on the stupidity of ‘From Cradle to Grave’ will precede the of launch parties (Darlington on Feb 9th that can come from supporting/warming best music around during the club night, to see their upcoming gigs, head to hate and fundamentalism. album and will be released on 7” vinyl joint and Edinburgh on Feb 10th). up for bands playing across the UK. with indie bangers and a bit of everything Facebook.com/kubarstockton. Featuring and produced by all-round Double AA side in early 2018. There will To keep up-to-date with The Skapones Bands have gained from just turning up else being played across 2 rooms. There legend of The Specials, Mr. Lynval also be 2 nights of launch parties, one in head to theskapones.co.uk. to the gigs at KU and just talking and really is something for everyone!”Charles’

22 23 NE VOLUME FEATURES NE VOLUME FEATURES

SONGS FROM NORTHERN BRITAIN BYKER GRAVE FESTIVAL 2017

Written by Samantha Hall and heavy sound. The band headlined Middlesbrough’s Written by Adam Hutchinson delight of many metal fans. Combining blast beats, Twisterella Festival on Saturday 7th October and it’s safe hardcore guitar riffs, and harsh vocals, their blend of On Saturday 11th November, a brand new music festival to say that their performance was nothing but incredible. A day of metal music taking place in Newcastle is set to sounds sets them apart from many other peers in a is coming to Stockton - and it’s one that’ll be showcasing With the venue busting with people desperate to get in showcase the nation’s and region’s most popular metal genre which is seemingly reproducible amongst today’s prodigious acts reigning from both Scotland and Teesside. to see the band, seeing Avalanche Party truly was one acts including names such as Geist and Famine taking dense market. Without a shadow of a doubt, the Northern Britain of my favourite musical experiences due to their raw to the stage. Byker Grave Festival will take over The Topping the names from our region are Geist whose music scene is growing and developing into a thing of passion-infused performance that is nothing but the Cluny in Newcastle on Saturday 2nd December. debut album, ‘Disrepair’, has been met with great acclaim pure beauty - and it’s exciting to have an event to actually usual for the band. Similarly, Scottish quartet The Van Over the past few years, day festivals in the North amongst local fans, with ‘Sludgelord’ reviews describing celebrate the success of the North of the country. T’s is a band that definitely can’t be missed. The Van T’s East have been established to vast success showcasing it as “straight up savage from frantic start to grinding Festival, ‘Songs from Northern Britain’, will take place have performed multiple times in the North of England, up-and-coming artists from every genre, most notably finish”. The five-piece act has grafted to become one at Stockton’s Georgian Theatre and Green Room and including playing the Meet The North Festival in Newcastle Hit The North Festival earlier this year and Twisterella of the most successful metal acts from the North East, will boast local favourites Avalanche Party as headliners. back in May. Releasing their latest single, ‘Bittersweet’, on Festival in Middlesbrough just last month. giving a shining light to the fantastic local talent being Tees Music Alliance and The Kids Are Solid Gold have Friday 6th October, the Van T’s’ heavy yet beautiful sound Byker Grave is going to shine light on a genre birthed from the region in recent times. Byker Grave is teamed up to put on an eclectic is unmistakably brilliant. Perfect harmonies heavily represented by growing also set to showcase acts that have yet selection of acts, with those from add to their overall-delightfulness, as local artists who are ‘lacking in to reach the heights of these artists, such the Teesside region including the “WE ARE NOW LOOKING well as their charming personalities that exposure’, with the day festival “AS A GENRE, METAL IN as local lads Exsanguinated and Leeds prosperous Hartlepool band Plaza, definitely stand The Van T’s aside from set to give these acts a platform post-metal act Hundred Year Old Man as well as Luuna, Plastic, Head TO DEVELOP NETWORKING many other bands. to which they can showcase their THE REGION HOLDS A whose debut LP, ‘Black Fire’, was released of Light Entertainment, Michael Andy Carr from The Kids Are Solid Gold music to a larger demographic. DEEP HERITAGE” to critical acclaim on Gizeh Records. As Gallagher, Ridley Wolf, James Riggall, OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE said: “We already have exceptionally strong Topping the list of artists on show a genre, metal in the region holds a deep Tom Joshua and many more. NEXT GENERATION OF ties with the Scottish music scene and this is death metal act, Omnipotent Hysteria. Formed in heritage with a vast amount of fans spawning from the Announced Scottish acts (at time event will undoubtedly help to strengthen 2013, the band has gone from strength to strength with North East. Its harsh and heavy tones have gone to of writing) include Glasgow’s very EXCITING TEESSIDE AND them even further. In recent times acts their first EP, ‘Reforged in the Embers of Monolithic soundtrack the lives of thousands around the area and own Declan Welsh & the Decadent such as Fatherson, White, and Washington Devastation’, acquiring the attention of record label, the up-and-coming talent on display in recent times West, Mt. Doubt, Foreignfox, SCOTTISH ACTS” Irving have made a significant impact here New Standard Elite. Following the announcement of has been nothing but positive, with bands continuing to Vistas and more. Paul Burns from on Teesside and we are now looking to the band signing to the label, they released their full- grow to unimaginable heights. Byker Grave Festival is Tees Music Alliance said: “This month’s event will be develop networking opportunities for the next generation length debut in the form of ‘Abattoir of Slain Deities’ set to culminate all of these people under one roof to the first of what will be a twice-yearly showcase with of exciting Teesside and Scottish acts”.With doors opening to great success, gaining fans from across the nation celebrate the talent from around the UK and help to another one scheduled for next spring. For the inaugural for the festival at 12:30pm, it’s set to be a day full of musical and even acquiring opportunities to play internationally envisage what the future of metal will be. showcase, we have a great line-up in place. And with splendour and one that definitely shouldn’t be missed by in locations such as Portugal. Alongside Omnipotent The event takes place at The Cluny, Newcastle on more acts still to announce, it promises to be a brilliant anyone that has even an ounce of love for music in their Hysteria, and towards the top of the festival billing, Saturday 2nd December with tickets, priced at £12.00, day for the discerning music fan”. Headliners, Avalanche heart. Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, are on sale now is Leeds three-piece metal outfit Famine who have available from thecluny.com, The Cluny, Beatdown Party, are currently kicking up quite a fuss in the music at teesmusicalliance.org.uk. Tickets on the door, if there are become one of the most prominent figures from the Records, RPM Music and Reflex CD Vinyl Newcastle. scene with their powerful music and loveable nature any left, will be priced at £11.00. emerging Leeds metal scene. Touring around the UK This day-festival is one certainly not to be missed helping them create a loyal fan-base from up and down To keep up-to-date with Teesside-based promoters, continuously, they have managed to build a following to for any local fans of metal music with the showcase the country. Recently releasing their latest single, ‘I’m So The Kids are Solid Gold’s upcoming gigs head to which they can now headline across the UK. Following of artists whose futures are dependent on local fans Wet’, Avalanche Party are truly in fine form - and it’s thekidsaresolidgold.co.uk. the release of their ‘Gold’ compilation CD, the band coming to support their art. easy to feel their passion for music through their unique is set to make their return to the North East to the

24 25 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” loudest crowd out there" loudest crowd out there" Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, caught up with him. MILBURNand touring. caught up with him. WISHBONEand touring. ASH

You’re bringing your ‘Here You Are - the Best of Tour’ to You’ve just released your debut album, so what kind of reception 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 your most“It recentfeels album like ‘Here guitar You Are’ focusesmusic ishas coming it received so backfar? around” Gateshead.“One Asof your the most strangestrecent album ‘Here things You Are’ focusesthrown has on it received the sostage far? was a dead swan” both on the songs that have influenced you and the songs Really great. There has been so much positive feedback and it’s both on the songs that have influenced you and the songs Really great. There has been so much positive feedback and it’s Sheffield indie outfit, Milburn, is set to something that developed over time as no idea. We hope our third record, ‘TIME’, Wishbone Ash are set to play ARC, Wishbone Ash, so what’s the story of the strangest things thrown on the that have become your greatest hits what can we expect great to hear which songs are personal favourites. I’m really that have become your greatest hits what can we expect great to hear which songs are personal favourites. I’m really return to the North East this month as we toured the country and were amazed gets a bit of recognition and goes down Stockton this month so Jack Dodsworth behind your success? And is there any stage was a dead swan at a show in from the show? happy that people have understood where I’m coming from with from the show? happy that people have understood where I’m coming from with they play Riverside, Newcastle so Reece at how many people still cared about the well with the faithful. We’re going to try caught up with guitarist Andy Powell to advice you’d give to other bands? Norfolk. That was back in the old days, I always play as many of the hits live as I can. When you are it, with the themes of heartbreak and acceptance and maturity. I always play as many of the hits live as I can. When you are it, with the themes of heartbreak and acceptance and maturity. Hanrahan caught up with the band to band. I suppose we did feel that we had and get on a few festivals next summer speak about their success, pre-gig rituals, I’m not sure every band wants to survive but that was quite shocking. lucky enough to have had quite a few hits you must accept lucky enough to have had quite a few hits you must accept talk about their initial split, their reunion something to offer in the current music and after that we’ll probably take a break and items that have been thrown on as long as us, but for me it was a surprise that the fans want to hear them and I like playing them. I will The tour sees you stopping at many different UK cities...are that the fans want to hear them and I like playing them. I will The tour sees you stopping at many different UK cities...are shows, and growing up. scene. It feels like guitar music is coming and reflect on what we’ve accomplished. stage during a Wishbone Ash gig. when we got this longevity. In terms of How do you relax before going on stage? also be doing a few songs off the ‘Here You Are’ album, but as there any places you haven’t been before? also be doing a few songs off the ‘Here You Are’ album, but as there any places you haven’t been before? back around. advice, it’s important to be adaptable. Do you have any pre-gig rituals? the album reached No. 4 in the charts, the fans know them as I’m really looking forward to playing at The Cluny having heard the album reached No. 4 in the charts, the fans know them as I’m really looking forward to playing at The Cluny having heard What made you feel, originally, that the What has been your favourite gig so far How excited are you for your UK tour? I don’t take success on any level for Above all, I make sure my trouser flyers well as the older ones. so many great things about that venue! Newcastle is a beautiful well as the older ones. so many great things about that venue! Newcastle is a beautiful band had run its course? And what were How did it feel to be back on stage since reforming in 2016? I know you’ve just finished touring over granted, I keep a sense of general are done up. I do like quiet time before city. I played a Sofar Sounds there last year which was incredible. city. I played a Sofar Sounds there last year which was incredible. your feelings surrounding the initial break together again for the initial reunion The pinnacle of the whole comeback in the US… humility and respect for the audiences. I go on stage though and I like to collect You seem to really enjoy being on stage and performing live. You seem to really enjoy being on stage and performing live. up? shows? came last summer when we headlined Yeah, we’re feeling really good. We I don’t pander to the audience, but I my thoughts; I don’t pick up a guitar and Is playing live your favourite part of being a musician? Do you think you’ll try do any touristy things whilst on the tour? Is playing live your favourite part of being a musician? Do you think you’ll try do any touristy things whilst on the tour? We were very young when the band first It was quite strange at first but we ended and curated our own day festival at Don just did our first show last night and, respect the fact that they’ve come out play before going on. Sometimes I might I really enjoy playing live. When I am on the stage hearing the Well we had a good look around on our last tour so this time I really enjoy playing live. When I am on the stage hearing the Well we had a good look around on our last tour so this time split (between 20-22). Looking back, I up doing four nights at the Academy in Valley Bowl in Sheffield. The atmosphere with just coming off a tour, it’s like a to support our music. Bands of our have a glass of wine just to chill myself crowd sing along to the songs it’s a great feeling. When I give we will have to visit some different attractions. We visited crowd sing along to the songs it’s a great feeling. When I give we will have to visit some different attractions. We visited think we just became frustrated that we Sheffield and by the last two, I think we all was incredible. If it all ended again homecoming heading back to the UK. standing might do 10 shows per tour, down because I need to be relaxed out to the audience and they give back it makes a fantastic Queensferry in Edinburgh last time we played which was out to the audience and they give back it makes a fantastic Queensferry in Edinburgh last time we played which was weren’t achieving more and getting the started to relax and enjoy ourselves. tomorrow I’d be satisfied. We know so many of our fans here and maybe bigger venues but fewer shows, because the day is very intense and I also night where we can all forget about our troubles and for a beautiful. We haven’t actually been to the Angel of the North, so night where we can all forget about our troubles and for a beautiful. We haven’t actually been to the Angel of the North, so recognition we deserved - there was a we do this circuit a lot, so it’s a really whereas we’re doing between 25 – 30 have to look after my voice. I’ll be singing, couple of hours have fun. I like to make it a party vibe. will have to take a trip up there this time around! couple of hours have fun. I like to make it a party vibe. will have to take a trip up there this time around! bit of a ‘what’s the point?’ question mark How did you feel about your debut And finally, do you approach anything nice feeling. shows per tour. The way that functions so I have to take care of my vocals. hanging over the band. If we were a little album, ‘Well, Well, Well’, after you had ten different with age? And do you feel time is an economic thing; you have to be You tend to bring your tours to the North East of England Your music career has had some pretty amazing moments so far, You tend to bring your tours to the North East of England Your music career has had some pretty amazing moments so far, older at the time then we may have just years to reflect on its legacy? and experience has been a blessing? How different is it playing in the US playing most nights in a month and Finally, if you could cover any song, quite a lot. What do you enjoy the most about the ‘up north’ but what would you say is your favourite moment to date? quite a lot. What do you enjoy the most about the ‘up north’ but what would you say is your favourite moment to date? disappeared for a couple of years to clear I think I speak on behalf of the band when We’re all a bit more relaxed these days compared to performing in the UK? playing in small venues is something we maybe live, which song would you cover? crowd? My favourite moment is getting playlisted on BBC Radio 1 just crowd? My favourite moment is getting playlisted on BBC Radio 1 just our heads and get perspective. I say that we didn’t spend much time because the band is not the be all and end The audiences are just as similar: love. Bands need to be playing all of the Well, I’m a huge Solomon Burke fan, It’s just a great crowd. I must say, the North East crowd must because I felt so happy that lots of people like me were going to It’s just a great crowd. I must say, the North East crowd must because I felt so happy that lots of people like me were going to reflecting on ‘Well Well Well’. It seems all anymore. We’ve got houses, kids and they’re enthusiastic and they know the time, so my theory is get out there, play especially his song ‘Won’t You Give Him be the loudest crowd out there. be listening to my music! It was an amazing feeling. be the loudest crowd out there. be listening to my music! It was an amazing feeling. How did you get back together? And a lifetime away and we’ve all moved on other general grown up stuff to worry catalogue, the band, etc. The biggest smaller venues, big venues, be flexible, One More Chance.’ I’ve never played it what was it that made you feel that the musically. The ten year comeback was about. That makes the whole process of hurdle in the US is just the distance have humility, and be proud of what you live and it would be an ambition of mine Finally, what does the immediate future bring for you and can Finally, is there anything you want to say to the people coming Finally, what does the immediate future bring for you and can Finally, is there anything you want to say to the people coming band had something to offer again to the more for the fans that were still there and writing and making music a little easier. between shows - you can sometimes be do - that’s the key. to play it live someday. we look forward to some new material in 2017? to see you? we look forward to some new material in 2017? to see you? current music scene? all those young ‘uns that missed us the on the road for 5/6 hours a day so you I have a full year of touring the world, but I am making time You’re in for a fun night! There will be sing-songs and some I have a full year of touring the world, but I am making time You’re in for a fun night! There will be sing-songs and some Getting back together was accidental. first time. Milburn play Riverside, Newcastle on have to really pace yourself. In the UK, What’s the most noticeable thing Wishbone Ash plays ARC, Stockton on to write new songs for an album to be released in 2018. swearing, but you’ll have a great time! to write new songs for an album to be released in 2018. swearing, but you’ll have a great time! We all met up to play at an old friend’s Saturday 18th November. Tickets, priced the only problem is the traffic. someone has yelled out during a show? Wednesday 15th November. Tickets, birthday and decided to do a couple What do you feel is next for Milburn in at £20.00 in advance, are available from I’ve had strange things yelled out of priced at £21.00 in advance, are available Tickets, priced between £24.19 - £48.38, are available from Tickets, priced at £7.70 (including booking fee), are available Tickets, priced between £24.19 - £48.38, are available from Tickets, priced at £7.70 (including booking fee), are available of reunion gigs. At that point it was the coming years? riversidenewcastle.co.uk. Few bands have survived as long or course, but more shockingly we’ve had from arconline.co.uk. sagegateshead.com. from thecluny.com. sagegateshead.com. from thecluny.com. definitely not a comeback - that was Going by the last decade, I have absolutely This is a 14+ gig. achieved as much as the legendary things thrown on stage and at me. One

26 27 NE VOLUME MAIN FEATURE // WOLF ALICE NE VOLUME MAIN FEATURE // WOLF ALICE

“The first time around playing some of those smaller venues we literally played to nobody”

Wolf Alice have just released their second album and head to So what is it like now that you’ve finally released your second Is there someone in the band who does most of the writing or is it album ‘Bambino’ is really good. They’re coming on tour with us and Newcastle this month so Laura Sanderson caught up with the album, ‘Visions Of A Life’? quite an equal contribution? we’re all really good friends so it’s just like being on holiday with all band to talk about playing intimate venues, the reaction to the new We’ve been completely overwhelmed with the reaction. We’ve We all work on every song with all of our heart and soul. There is your best mates. album, and more. been going round the country meeting people; it’s very humbling to some stuff where there is probably more of one person in different meet people who have connected with the record in a short space bits though. There is a lot of Ellie in this album - a lot of ideas came Wolf Alice plays Newcastle’s 02 Academy on Monday 13th You played the Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough this of time and them telling us their favourite songs. from things she had sent over. November with support from Sunflower Bean and Superfood. summer. What made you want to play intimate venues on that tour Obviously it’s very flattering to have the press be into it, but to see Standing tickets have now sold out but balcony tickets, priced at ahead of the album? people who come to the shows enjoying it makes it a special thing. What can fans coming to your Newcastle date expect on your £21.40 (including booking fee), are available from seetickets.com (at A lot of these venues don’t get a lot of bands passing through them. upcoming tour? time of writing). The first time around playing some of those smaller venues we How was the process of making this album different to the first? Obviously we will be playing the new album as well as some of the literally played to nobody but they’re almost designed to be played It was a shorter period of time. We were on the road for two years old bangers. We have a really fun production that we will be putting if they’re packed. Middlesbrough was very good to us the first time while songs were coming to us and then we had maybe about six on. We can’t wait to do it and I tend to think when all four of us we went there so it was on our list to go back to. months in London from starting to really work on it to having it have that feeling behind us there is no stopping us. kind of written and finished and then in the studio. Your whole life Do you prefer playing smaller venues or big festival slots? is working up to that first record and then for a band like us, where Which bands do you love at the moment that you’ll be listening to I’ve played small shows and been like “this is sick!” but I’ve played you’ve got to do the next one in a shorter period of time, problems while travelling on tour? festival shows, like the pyramid stage at Glastonbury, where I’ve just can arise but we’ve been lucky because the process was quite I’m into the new Grizzly bear album and I’m revisiting the Father been in complete awe of it all. smooth and organic. John Misty album ‘I Love You, Honeybear’. The new Superfood

28 29 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Simon Emmett Photography by Dee Chaneva

BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” loudest crowd out there" loudest crowd out there" Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, caught up with him. THE DARKNESSand touring. caught up with him. PROFUMOand touring.

You’re bringing your ‘Here You Are - the Best of Tour’ to You’ve just released your debut album, so what kind of reception 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 your most“It’s recent different album ‘Here You becauseAre’ focuses southernershas it received so far?never protest” Gateshead.“We spent As your about most recent a year album building ‘Here You Are’ a focusesportable, has professional-qualityit received so far? recording studio” both on the songs that have influenced you and the songs Really great. There has been so much positive feedback and it’s both on the songs that have influenced you and the songs Really great. There has been so much positive feedback and it’s kingpins The Darkness know someone with his credentials. He wasn’t North East. We play rock ‘n’ roll to Newcastle band Profumo will release portable, professional-quality recording agreed and came up from Sheffield one that have become your greatest hits what can we expect great to hear which songs are personal favourites. I’m really that have become your greatest hits what can we expect great to hear which songs are personal favourites. I’m really all about resurgence – they catapulted a control freak, or on a power trip, he primarily a working-class audience and their new EP, ‘Cosy Catastrophe’, this studio around ourselves that allowed us morning with this ancient German violin from the show? happy that people have understood where I’m coming from with from the show? happy that people have understood where I’m coming from with glam into the 21st century back in just had such boyish enthusiasm. He had that’s what it’s all about. It has gone off month so Lee Allcock caught up with the to record wherever we could capture the and did the track in a couple of hours. I always play as many of the hits live as I can. When you are it, with the themes of heartbreak and acceptance and maturity. I always play as many of the hits live as I can. When you are it, with the themes of heartbreak and acceptance and maturity. 2003 with their chart-topping album, the same vibe as we had. in all kinds of strands and tangents over band to find out more. best sounds and gave us all the time we I think we paid him with a big barrel lucky enough to have had quite a few hits you must accept lucky enough to have had quite a few hits you must accept ‘Permission to Land’, and returned the years so it’s something that you can’t needed to get the sound we wanted. of Hobgoblin and then went off to see that the fans want to hear them and I like playing them. I will The tour sees you stopping at many different UK cities...are that the fans want to hear them and I like playing them. I will The tour sees you stopping at many different UK cities...are in full force after a six-year hiatus in How did the creative process differ really describe. ‘Cosy Catastrophe’ marks a stylistic shift Grumbling Fur - what a great day. also be doing a few songs off the ‘Here You Are’ album, but as there any places you haven’t been before? also be doing a few songs off the ‘Here You Are’ album, but as there any places you haven’t been before? 2011, subsequently releasing three working with Adrian as opposed to from your last EP, ‘Brutalism’. What new One of the standout tracks is ‘Silly Season the album reached No. 4 in the charts, the fans know them as I’m really looking forward to playing at The Cluny having heard the album reached No. 4 in the charts, the fans know them as I’m really looking forward to playing at The Cluny having heard studio albums.‘Pinewood Smile’, The other producers? I know the band has a distaste for ideas or influences prompted the change Is Over’, which has a real ‘Tango In The You’ve undergone a few line-up changes well as the older ones. so many great things about that venue! Newcastle is a beautiful well as the older ones. so many great things about that venue! Newcastle is a beautiful Darkness’ fifth studio effort, has just hit Basically, we laid tracks at the same time Southern Trains, so I have to ask, how is in sound? Night’-era Fleetwood Mac atmosphere. while making this EP. Could you tell us city. I played a Sofar Sounds there last year which was incredible. city. I played a Sofar Sounds there last year which was incredible. stores - and the band will be heading – separated by partition but in the same the transport system up here? I think it was the combination of the How did that song come together? more about how the new members Paul You seem to really enjoy being on stage and performing live. You seem to really enjoy being on stage and performing live. to Newcastle this month to give fans a room. We were in an old chapel, in a It’s different because southerners never band absorbing a much greater range ‘Silly Season Is Over’ is weird in that it’s Gardner (keys) and Ant Simpson (bass) Is playing live your favourite part of being a musician? Do you think you’ll try do any touristy things whilst on the tour? Is playing live your favourite part of being a musician? Do you think you’ll try do any touristy things whilst on the tour? taste of the new record on stage. Frankie big room, so we could still see and hear protest. That’s why we did the ‘Southern of influences and having a much greater essentially a bedroom demo Ben did on joined? I really enjoy playing live. When I am on the stage hearing the Well we had a good look around on our last tour so this time I really enjoy playing live. When I am on the stage hearing the Well we had a good look around on our last tour so this time Poullain, the band’s bass guitarist, spoke and feel each other and we caught the Trains’ track because everyone grumbles ability to make the sounds we wanted his own that we ended up polishing a We’d known Paul for a while and he’d crowd sing along to the songs it’s a great feeling. When I give we will have to visit some different attractions. We visited crowd sing along to the songs it’s a great feeling. When I give we will have to visit some different attractions. We visited to Jake Graham about the new album, energy, which is what we wanted. about them but no one actually goes on record. A lot of the stuff on ‘Cosy little bit. What I remember most clearly provided some keys on ‘Brutalism’ as a out to the audience and they give back it makes a fantastic Queensferry in Edinburgh last time we played which was out to the audience and they give back it makes a fantastic Queensferry in Edinburgh last time we played which was the addition of Rufus Tiger Taylor to the public. Corporations and big companies Catastrophe’ is the sound of Profumo is removing this nightmarish key-shifting consultant. With the sad demise of Yellow night where we can all forget about our troubles and for a beautiful. We haven’t actually been to the Angel of the North, so night where we can all forget about our troubles and for a beautiful. We haven’t actually been to the Angel of the North, so line-up, and what touring the North East What did Rufus Tiger Taylor add to the make up the rules, and the customer as we’ve always had in our heads but harmonica solo that he had instead of Creatures whilst we were recording, I couple of hours have fun. I like to make it a party vibe. will have to take a trip up there this time around! couple of hours have fun. I like to make it a party vibe. will have to take a trip up there this time around! offers the band. writing of ‘Pinewood Smile’ which makes doesn’t get good service anymore. It’s have only now managed to inflict on the the middle-eight. I think the fact that we think we became Paul’s new outlet for it unique to the other records? impossible to complain anymore; there’s listening public. mostly left the demo track alone means cruelty to MicroKorgs. You tend to bring your tours to the North East of England Your music career has had some pretty amazing moments so far, You tend to bring your tours to the North East of England Your music career has had some pretty amazing moments so far, What was the inspiration behind I’d say Rufus added edge, virility, mischief, just massive frustration, they take the that there’s a lot more ‘space’ in the mix Ant was a good friend of the band who quite a lot. What do you enjoy the most about the ‘up north’ but what would you say is your favourite moment to date? quite a lot. What do you enjoy the most about the ‘up north’ but what would you say is your favourite moment to date? ‘Pinewood Smile’? and playfulness. He contributes a lot piss out of you, charging you more and You’ve described the new EP as than elsewhere on the record which volunteered his services when a vacancy crowd? My favourite moment is getting playlisted on BBC Radio 1 just crowd? My favourite moment is getting playlisted on BBC Radio 1 just This was us channelling in fun again, but that’s the thing, we all do. Everyone more and nothing ever changes. It all ‘capsized yacht-rock’ in reference to the makes it sound a little Tango-esque. as bassist came up. There’s always a worry, It’s just a great crowd. I must say, the North East crowd must because I felt so happy that lots of people like me were going to It’s just a great crowd. I must say, the North East crowd must because I felt so happy that lots of people like me were going to really. It’s the first time since the has to contribute a lot for a band to be stems back to the idea that we’re all just production. How did you get such a hi-fi I think, about bringing a friend in because be the loudest crowd out there. be listening to my music! It was an amazing feeling. be the loudest crowd out there. be listening to my music! It was an amazing feeling. beginning of the first album that we’ve fresh, inventive and relevant. There are rats; we have to climb on top of each sound whilst recording and producing The single ‘Golden Fleece’ also includes it’s quite awkward to get rid of them if been able to tap into that euphoric no hiding places; you can’t be half-arsed other to get to the top, and it makes no yourselves? string parts contributed by Simon Clowes they suck but luckily Ant turned out to be Finally, what does the immediate future bring for you and can Finally, is there anything you want to say to the people coming Finally, what does the immediate future bring for you and can Finally, is there anything you want to say to the people coming energy, which is the hardest thing to do. when you do this kind of thing. one happy. ‘Capsized yacht-rock’ is a bit of an in- (May Days in Barcelona). How did he stupidly good and we actually ended up we look forward to some new material in 2017? to see you? we look forward to some new material in 2017? to see you? joke about how we were going for this become involved in the EP? re-recording a few parts we’d finished so I have a full year of touring the world, but I am making time You’re in for a fun night! There will be sing-songs and some I have a full year of touring the world, but I am making time You’re in for a fun night! There will be sing-songs and some How did you find working with Adrian Is there anything unique about playing The Darkness will arrive in the region sumptuous and madly expensive sound We’d seen Simon play as May Days a they’d have his bass-playing on them. to write new songs for an album to be released in 2018. swearing, but you’ll have a great time! to write new songs for an album to be released in 2018. swearing, but you’ll have a great time! Bushby [producer for Muse/Foo in the North East that you don’t find on Tuesday 28th November to play the of major label records made in California couple of times and he blew our heads Fighters]? anywhere else in the UK? , Newcastle. Tickets, priced in the 70s whilst actually recording in off. When we decided that we wanted To find out more about the new release Tickets, priced between £24.19 - £48.38, are available from Tickets, priced at £7.70 (including booking fee), are available Tickets, priced between £24.19 - £48.38, are available from Tickets, priced at £7.70 (including booking fee), are available It was a privilege. He [Adrian] is a lovely I used to visit the ‘monkey hangers’ in at £31.45 in advance, are available now a parish hall in Allendale for very little to have strings on the record he was the head to Facebook.com/Profumoband. sagegateshead.com. from thecluny.com. sagegateshead.com. from thecluny.com. guy, with no ego, which is amazing for Hartlepool so I have memories of the from ticketmaster.co.uk. money. We spent about a year building a only person we ever thought to ask. He

30 31 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

EMBRACE SON OF DAVE “It’s a bit beefier than the first album as we know what we’re doing now” “I had a few tunes put into modern crime drama shows and Netflix Ever popular indie band Embrace make I always feel like Embrace is a little You’ll be returning on stage in the programs including Breaking Bad, Preacher, and Bloodline“ a long-awaited return to the North East unfairly treated by the music press North East this month. Last time you this autumn so Colin McCann caught (ourselves not included of course)… were here you were moonlighting as Blues maverick Son of Dave heads to I found a harmonica in my Christmas you choose this format for the new up with guitarist, Richard McNamara, to There will always be bell-**** who guitarist in Starsailor. How did that Teesside this month so Reece Hanrahan stocking - it was either put there by album? talk about their North East gigs and the write for magazines (laughs). I used to come about? caught up with him to talk about his new God, Santa or Dave. I took to it, became If you have to explain a joke, it isn’t band’s enduring appeal. get upset about it and think ‘what are We shared a bus on a US tour and album, 70s cop shows, and the challenges addicted. They took me to a child funny anymore. I’m not satirising, they talking about, that’s brilliant!’ I became really close. I was asked if I of performing solo. psychologist who asked my parents, I’m advertising. I had a few tunes put So there is a new album in the don’t read the reviews anymore though. could produce their album, which I did. “How long has your son had the blues”? into modern crime drama shows and pipeline…what can you tell us about it? If they get it, they get it. It is what it is. Then they started to ask me to jump in This year has seen the release of your I saw James Cotton perform at the Netflix programs including Breaking The album (‘’) will with a bit of guitar. It’s a lot harder as eighth solo LP…that certainly is an Winnipeg Folk Festival when I was about Bad, Preacher, and Bloodline. I’ve always be out in March. Sonically, it sounds You have a real connection with your they have all these weird chords. impressive repertoire of work. How do twelve, then I knew what the instrument wanted to have a tune used as the theme most like the first album (1998’s ‘The fans. Why do you think you inspire such you decide that you’re ready to start was for. to a TV program. To me, the golden Good Will Out’). The palette is the devotion? What is the future for Embrace? work on a new album? age of the TV show theme song was same as usual, but with added orchestra I think as you say, we’re a bit unfairly We’ll be back with a few secret gigs and It isn’t a whimsical choice - I don’t wait The blues is known for having a rich the 1970s. Maybe one of these will get and brass. It’s like (new single) ‘The treated. So when you meet an Embrace then maybe do some bigger shows in around for the muse to tell me to make history and legacy within music. What picked up eh? Ha ha ha. Maybe I’ll name Finish Line’ - fearless, audacious, and fan, who admits to being an Embrace March once the album is out. Hopefully an album - I put an album out every do you feel that your music brings to the next album ‘Hit Songs for Radio’. It’ll fucking epic! It’s a bit beefier than the fan, you make a really strong bond. We we’ll get a bit of radio play too. As for other year to survive. Without an album, a genre that has had so much come amuse me and my fans while the media first album as we know what we’re have so many people who have met the future, I think the year after next I can’t have a tour. Promoters won’t before? school graduates stare at their screens. doing now! through our concerts and got married we’ll be doing some shows to celebrate book an act unless there’s something to Very few people dig very deep into blues or made lifelong friends or whatever, the 21st anniversary of ‘The Good Will talk about and people won’t come to a music. Once you do, you know it’s not Do you find any challenges in performing The band, still retaining the same lineup, so they really are invested in the whole Out’, so that will be horns and strings show unless they think something new is niche. Swing, jive, boogie-woogie, rock solo as opposed to being beside a full has been going for over 20 years. Has it thing. and choirs and no money! We’ll keep happening. That said, there’s no shortage ‘n’ roll, doo wop…blues doesn’t sit off band? ever felt like the end for Embrace? going at it though, we enjoy it, it’s a of songs to write. The moment I go in a corner; it’s connected to everything Screw -ups mean the song comes Back in 2006, when we took a break, it Do you have any regrets? That World laugh - it’s not like we are going down into the barn, tunes start coming. I hum else. It’s been confused and relegated to tumbling down. If my trousers split, was supposed to be three months but Cup song perhaps… the pit! things into a Dictaphone on a drunken a rack of its own because of the cult of there’s nobody else to distract the that turned into six months, a year, two I regret smoking, and I regret THAT walk home at night and these things pile the guitar solo which made it repetitive audience. There’s also much more years, and that looked like it. Eventually, World Cup song. There is such a Embrace play The Middlesbrough up. In fact, I wish I could be making two and annoying to people for a couple of pressure. It’s physically and mentally we tentatively started working on negative energy around football. They Empire on Sunday 5th November. albums per year. It’s hard work, but fun decades. I don’t just dust it off and wheel more challenging and it’s challenging for things again. It was a slow progress came to us and pretty much said ‘We Tickets, priced at £22.00 in advance too. But I don’t have the time or money it out again, I’ve lived off the stuff since I the audience too. which gradually ramped up towards the need a World Cup song from you, as including booking fee, are available from to do that. was a kid because of the harmonica. end (2014’s self-titled comeback album). nobody else will do it!’ It was at the seetickets.com. Son of Dave plays The Green Room, We only had three years off, but it felt end of a very long period of us saying You’ve been described as an idiosyncratic Your latest album is called ‘Music for Stockton on Friday 10th November. like seven or eight. ‘yes’ to everything, like the book ‘The bluesman. What was it that initially Cop Shows’ and is a humorous satire of Tickets, priced at £12.50 in advance, are Yes Man’. attracted you to the genre of blues? 70s cop shows. What was it that made available from teesmusicalliance.org.uk.

32 33 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Adrienne Beacco

BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” loudest crowd out there" loudest crowd out there" Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, caught up with him. FOZZYand touring. caught up with him. ASTROIDand touring. BOYS

You’re bringing your ‘Here You Are - the Best of Tour’ to You’ve just released your debut album, so what kind of reception 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 your“This most recent record album ‘Here sounds You Are’ focuses like ifhas it received so far? and Journey Gateshead.“I just As hopeyour most they recent albumplay ‘Here ‘Adieu’ You Are’ focuses every has night it received so so far?I can have a little cry” both on the songs that have influenced you and the songs Really great. There has been so much positive feedback and it’s bothAstroid on Boys the songsare set that to playhave Metro influenced Radio you Whatand the bands songs or artists haveReally had great. the There has overbeen the so muchyears. Whatpositive advice feedback has any and of it’s that have become your greatesthad hits a what child can we and expect it wasgreat raised to hear which by songs AC/DC” are personal favourites. I’m really thatArena, have Newcastle become this your month greatest where hits what canbiggest we expect influence on yougreat as a toband, hear and which songsthose are artists personal given favourites. which you’ve I’m reallytaken on fromIn preparation the show? for hard rockers, Fozzy’s new record is the best, but I honestlyhappy that believe people that havethe understood black album… where I’m coming from with fromthey’ll the be supportingshow? Enter Shikari so Lee how? happy that people haveboard understood ever since? where I’m coming from with Ialbum always and play supporting as many tour, of the rock hits superstar live as I can.this When is our you best are work. Ourit, earlier with the records themes of heartbreakThat’s right, andyeah. acceptance We wanted and someone maturity. who IAllcock always caughtplay as up many with of drummer the hits Biglive Has to I can.We When all haveyou ourare own influencesit, with the and themes of heartbreakWhen we playedand acceptance London Battersea and maturity. Flavor luckyChris Jerichoenough (yes, to haveChris hadJericho quite from a few hits youhave must laid accepta strong foundation for us and on could move us on from our last records and luckyspeak enoughabout giving to have the youthhad quite a voice, a few hits youwhen must it comesaccept to it the honey pot is Flav said to me: “If you can’t blast 200bpm thatWWE) the caught fans want up with to Damianhear them Robinson and I liketo playingthis one them. we wantedI will to haveThe an tour ‘Appetite sees youfor stoppingwe knew at many that it different would be UK a challenge cities...are and thatH & Mthe hoodies, fans want and to 2018. hear them and I like playingsmouldering. them. I Elliot’swill got Thethe signaturetour sees you stoppingyou better at many get differentoff that Throne UK cities...are H.” I didn’t alsoexplain be more doing about a few the songs band’s off sound, the ‘Here their You Are’Destruction’ album, but feel asin that therethere could any places be 6 you haven’tthere wouldbeen before?be conflict. It was deliberate. also be doing a few songs off the ‘Here You Are’sound album, and when but as we getthere to sprinkle any places it you haven’tbelieve been him atbefore? first because he doesn’t thecritical album acclaim, reached and how No. hard 4 in Fozzy the charts, play. the fansor 7 know clear singlesthem ason the album.I’m really So welooking took forward to playing at The Cluny having heard theHow album does reachedit feel to beNo. playing 4 in the huge charts, arena the fanstakes know its own them sound as andI’m becomes really looking what forwardplay tothe playing drums at but The when Cluny I walkedhaving heardpast his well as the older ones. that feeling into productionso andmany if a great guitar things aboutLead singlethat venue! from the Newcastle album, ‘Judas’, is a beautifulis a pretty wellshows as right the olderacross ones. the UK? it is. I suppose we can getso away many with great it asthings aboutdressing that room venue! and Newcastle he was smashing is a beautiful a 220 Fozzy are currently out on tour in solo didn’t fit the song we’dcity. leave I played it out, a Sofar if a Soundsballsy thererock ‘n’ last roll year track which about was betraying incredible. It’s going to be sweet. It’s our biggest tour the different sounding songscity. I throughoutplayed a Sofar Soundshammer there blast last I knewyear which it was was true incredible. and that Yousupport seem of tothe really ‘Judas’ enjoy record. being How’s on stagethe and vocalperforming didn’t feel live. right we’d leave it out. We’ve people and pushing away people you love. Youto date seem and to what really a privilege. enjoy being I don’t on thinkstage and theperforming album are live. kind of a representation of stuck with me forever. JJ from Deez Nuts Istour playing been livegoing? your favourite part of being a musician?left some great songs off thisDo albumyou think as they you’ll tryIs do this any autobiographical touristy things or whilst written on withthe tour? Isanyone playing sees live it youras anything favourite different part ofto being a musician?the members’ influences.Do you think you’ll tryonce do any sat touristyus all down things at whilsta soundcheck on the tour?and IIt’s really awesome, enjoy thanks. playing The live. record When is numberI am on the stagedidn’t fithearing its overall the feeling.Well This werecord had ahas good looksomeone around in onmind? our last tour so this time Iour really regular enjoy shows playing though, live. When we just I amget toon the stage hearing the Well we had a good lookread around ‘The Story on our of thelast Littletour soMole’ this totime us. crowdone on singiTunes along and we’veto the had songs over it’s 10 a great feeling.ten hit When singles I giveon it in my wemind. will have to visit someWe differentwanted to attractions. really write We songs visited which crowddo it in singa bigger along room, to the on songsa bigger it’s sound a great feeling.How When does it I feelgive to be givenwe will the have to visit someThe differentstory is aboutattractions. a Mole We who visited got shit outmillion to viewsthe audience on YouTube and so they it’s great give thatback it makes a fantastic Queensferry in Edinburghmean last something. time we Johnnyplayed actuallywhich waswrote the outsystem to theto a audience bigger audience. and they Plus give I think back it makesopportunity a fantastic to support Queensferryarguably one inof Edinburghon and last he time tried we to played find whichout who was did it. He nightwe’re outwhere touring we cana hit allrecord. forget We’re about really our troublesThe album and for sounds a a little beautiful.more aggressive We haven’t actuallywords beento ‘Judas’ to thebut AngelI have ofa song the North,on the so nightwe’re whereall just superwe can excited all forget to have about the our troublesthe biggest and for bands a in the beautiful.punk/hardcore We haven’t actuallydidn’t givebeen us to any the advice; Angel Iof just the think North, he so coupleexcited thatof hours this tour have will fun. be Iour like largest to make yet it a partyand punk vibe. than earlier records.will have Does to Rich take a trip albumup there about this losing time myaround! mother when I was couplechance toof playhours our have home fun. town I like arena to make - it a partygenres vibe. of the 21st century,will Enter have toShikari? take a trip reallyup there likes this the time book. around! Maybe there was a - and everything is growing. Ward (lead guitarist) have the final say in the young. We wanted a record which let other that’s going to be ridiculous. Weird. I remember swiftly passing deeper meaning, I don’t know. You tend to bring your tours to the North Eastsound of of England a record? Or wasYour this music a collective career has peoplehad some see allpretty sides amazing of us. moments so far, You tend to bring your tours to the North Eastthrough of England a multi-coloured Your H&M music hoodie career has had some pretty amazing moments so far, quiteThat’s agreat lot. Whatnews… do you enjoy the most aboutdecision the ‘up before north’ you all satbut down what to wouldwrite you say is your favourite moment to date? quiteYou’re a known lot. What for detailingdo you enjoy the thoughts the most aboutphase the like ‘up everyonenorth’ in mybut schools what would quad you sayWhat is your can favourite your fans moment expect fromto date? you in crowd?Thanks, we call it the Judas affect. And the the tracks? My favourite moment Youris getting show playlisted at Riverside, on BBCNewcastle Radio will1 just crowd?and feelings of, what you note, is: “a and Shikari was the kingsMy of favouriteit. Not once moment 2018?is getting playlisted on BBC Radio 1 just It’sgood just thing a great is, we crowd.have other I must songs say, on the the North I’dEast agree. crowd I think must the recordbecause is very Iaggressive felt so happy be that on lots Guy of Fawkes people Night. like meAny were plans goingfor to It’sgeneration just a great who crowd.feel unheard I must and say, the North didEast it crowdever cross must my mindbecause I’d be playingI felt so happyShows, that lots music, of people videos, like festivals me were and goingnew to benew the album loudest that arecrowd as good out asthere. or better and very dark but with greatbe listening hooks and to my music!anything It was special an amazing for the feeling. gig? beignored.” the loudest You must crowd be passionate out there. about in a band, let alone beingbe able listening to support to my music!merch It was - all an the amazing wonderful feeling. things a band than ‘Judas’ so it’ll keep getting better, riffs. This record sounds like if Metallica and We love playing the UK and love giving the youth a voice... a band like that in the venues we are. can offer but of a lot better quality than Finally,hopefully. what does the immediate future bringJourney for you had and a child can and it Finally,was raised is there by anythingNewcastle. you want We to saywill toplay the how people we always coming do: Finally,Without what getting does too the political, immediate I think future it’s bringThey for youcaught and the can wave andFinally, nailed is thereit so anythingprevious you want years. to say Not to once the people have I feltcoming this we look forward to some new material in 2017?AC/DC. I think this is whyto we’ve see you? had great loud, intense and like it was our last ever weimportant look forward that if you’ve to some got newa platform, material in 2017?for me it’s pretty sweet. toI just see hope you? they band slowing down and I don’t think it’s IEarly have reviews a full year of ‘Judas’ of touring have been the nothing world, but I amcritical making acclaim time already. A lotYou’re of the in soundfor a fun night!show. There will be sing-songs and some Iuse have it. Usea full it yearfor whatever of touring you the want world, but but I amplay making ‘Adieu’ timeevery night soYou’re I can in have for a fun night!going There to willhappen be sing-songs anytime soon. and some tobut write complimentary, new songs with for the an likesalbum of Guitarto be releasedis based in 2018. on Rich and I bringingswearing, in Johnny but you’ll have a great time! todon’t write let itnew go tosongs waste for - anshout album about to be releasedlittle incry. 2018. swearing, but you’ll have a great time! World saying that it sounded like a band Andrews as a producer. Fozzy play Riverside, Newcastle on Sunday something. We kind of have our way of Astroid Boys support Enter Shikari at Tickets,‘hitting its priced stride’. betweenIs this the £24.19band’s strongest - £48.38, are available from Tickets, priced at £7.705th (including November. booking Tickets, fee), priced are atavailable £16.00 Tickets,thinking andpriced if other between people £24.19 think -the £48.38, areYou’ve available also from supported theTickets, likes ofpriced Trash at £7.70Metro (including Radio booking Arena, Newcastlefee), are available on Sunday sagegateshead.com.record so far? That’s interesting. I’ve heardfrom Lars thecluny.com. and James in advance (plus booking fee), are available sagegateshead.com.same then sweet, let’s be mates. Talk, Deez Nuts, Flavor Flav,from Public thecluny.com. Enemy, 19th November. Tickets, priced at £30.25, I think all bands would say that their new say similar things about their production of from riversidenewcastle.co.uk. Grandmaster Flash, Skepta and are available from metroradioarena.co.uk.

34 35 Saturday 11 November

Saturday 25 November

Saturday 2 December

THE STUDIO - TOFT HOUSE THE HOME OF UNPOPULAR MUSIC @ 7.30pm (doors 7pm) MLT Club, The Avenue, Linthorpe, M’Bro TS5 6SA www.mltmiddlesbrough.org.uk NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Richard Stow

BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” loudest crowd out there" loudest crowd out there" Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Legendary R&B singer-songwriter,BLACK Billy Ocean heads STAR to the Newcastle RIDERS on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite LegendaryHOLY R&B singer-songwriter, MOLY Billy Ocean heads & to the THENewcastle onCRACKERS Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, caught up with him. and touring. caught up with him. and touring.

You’re bringing your“‘Heavy ‘Here You Fire’ Are - the is Best our of Tour’most to completeYou’ve bodyjust released of your work debut thus album, sofar” what kind of reception You’re“I told bringing Tommy, your ‘Here our You Are drummer, - the Best of Tour’ to playto the You’vedrums just releasedloud enoughyour debut album,to wake so what the kind ofdead” reception BlackGateshead. Star Riders As your play most The Middlesbroughrecent album ‘Here You’ve You Are’ got focusesyour new drummerhas it received Chad out so far? You’ve released three albums in four NewcastleGateshead. GypsyAs your folk-rock most recent outfit, album Holy ‘Hereare You harder, Are’ focusesmore worn, hasand it I receivedthink that so far? realised that we’d be tracking the drums Empireboth on this the month songs sothat Damian have influencedRobinson you withand youthe forsongs this tour. WhatReally difference great. There has has years,been so muchcan we positive assume feedback that you and are it’s Molyboth on& The the Crackers, songs that are have preparing influenced for you ‘Salem’and the mirrors songs that! Really great. There has abovebeen soa 12thmuch Century positive familyfeedback tomb and I toldit’s caughtthat have up becomewith the yourband togreatest talk about hits what canhe wemade expect to the band? great to hear which songsalready are beginningpersonal favourites.to write songs I’m really for the theirthat have upcoming become UK your tour greatest so Lee Allcock hits what can we expect great to hear which songsTommy, are personalour drummer, favourites. to play I’m the really drums workingfrom the hard, show? their new drummer, and Chad is a huge force of positivehappy that energy: people havenew understood one? where I’m coming from with caughtfrom the up show? with the band to talk about Why did you decide to happyrecord that the people album haveloud understood enough towhere wake I’m the coming dead. from with theirI always name. play as many of the hits live as I can.he When brings you as aremuch of a loveit, with of connecting the themes of heartbreakIndeed. Ricky and and acceptance I had breakfast and maturity. together theirI always new play album, as many recording of the in hits a medieval live as I can.at When the idyllic you are Vada Studios?it, with And the how themes did of heartbreak and acceptance and maturity. lucky enough to have had quite a few hits youwith must people accept as he does a love of playing while we performed in Japan recently and chapel,lucky enough and playing to have Glastonbury. had quite a few hits youthe must recording accept go? What, so far, has been your favourite You’rethat the back fans on want the roadto hear with them the ‘Coming and I like playingmusic. them. He’s amazingI will in thatThe way tour as sees this you stoppinghe confirmed at many differenthis usual UKgrowing cities...are supply that the fans want to hear them and I like playingVada isthem. an old I will stately homeThe tourtucked sees into you stoppingmoment at many during different a live performance UK cities...are and Underalso be Heavy doing Firea few Tour’. songs With off Black the ‘Here Star You Are’business album, so butoften as breeds there an almost any places you haven’tof lyrics been and before? title ideas. And we’ve all You’realso be set doing to tour a few right songs across off the the ‘Here UK You Are’the idyllicalbum, countryside but as ofthere Worcester. any places It you haven’twhy? been before? Riders’the album (BSR) reached on-going No. touring 4 in the schedule charts, the fansunderstandable know them amountas I’mof cynicismreally looking and forwardbegun to sendingplaying atriffs, The melodies Cluny having and chord heard thisthe albummonth, reached playing 16-datesNo. 4 in inthe total, charts, but the fansblew know us away them - asas did MattI’m Terry,really lookingthe forwardMaybe to playingGlastonbury. at The WeCluny started having and heard andwell musicas the releases older ones. since you formed are frustration. And he has comeso many to makegreat allthings aboutprogressions that venue! back Newcastle and forth. is a beautiful otherwell as than the playingolder ones. your home-town producer. His charisma soand many eccentricity, great things aboutthere that was venue! maybe Newcastle about 50 peopleis a beautiful you trying to take ’s “hardest our songs his own as a player.city. I playedWe’re avery Sofar Sounds there last year which was incredible. date in Newcastle where are you most with the atmosphere ofcity. the I studioplayed anda Sofar Soundswatching there us last in ayear 1000 which capacity was incredible.tent. I workingYou seem musical to really act enjoyon the being planet” on title stage and proudperforming to have live. Chad onboard. There’s a track on your new album called lookingYou seem forward to really to playingenjoy being and why? on stage and grounds,performing completely live. sold us. There were closed my eyes for the duration of the fromIs playing him? live your favourite part of being a musician? Do you think you’ll try‘Who do any Rides touristy the Tiger?” things whilstIn your on mind, the tour? We’reIs playing looking live your forward favourite to Birmingham part of being a musician?problems, as there alwaysDo is you – mainly think you’llloss trysong do any and touristy I then openedthings whilst them on and the it wastour? That’sI really a enjoyfair assessment. playing live. We When believe I am the on the stageYour bandhearing name the was takenWell from we had a good lookwhat around is the ontiger our and last who tour is soriding this it?time andI really Brighton enjoy -playing these arelive. citiesWhen we’ve I am on the stageof confidence hearing the in the songsWell - webut had that’s a good all lookfull! around I turned on around our last to tour the sorest this of timethe workcrowd we sing are along doing to is therighteous songs workit’s a greatand feeling.a collection When Iof give outlaws inwe the will film have to visit someGood different question. attractions. The tiger We is the visited fear of nevercrowd played sing along before to andthe it’ssongs always it’s a great feeling.part Whenof it. Blood, I give sweat, wetears will and have a bit to ofvisit someband different and we attractions.all looked atWe each visited other. It thatout toour the fans audience deserve anda band they that give they back it makes‘Tombstone’. a fantastic Where is theQueensferry band acting in Edinburghthe Boogiemanlast time we coming played inwhich the frontwas door excitingout to the to audiencedebut in a and new they place. give back it makeselbow a fantasticgrease makes theQueensferry song in the end.in Edinburghwas lastprobably time we that played moment which when was I was cannight feel where is committed we can all to forgetauthenticity. about And our troublesoutside and of forthe alaw at thebeautiful. moment? We haven’t actuallyof our beenhomes to in the the Angel USA, of such the thatNorth, the so night where we can all forget about our troubles and for a beautiful. We haven’t actuallylike ‘shit, been this to works’. the Angel of the North, so withcouple that of effort hours comes have fun.hard I likework. to It make has it a partyThis band vibe. consumes whatwill should have to be take an a trip 2ndup there amendment this time to around! our Constitution Thiscouple will of be hours your havebiggest fun. headline I like to tour make to it a partyThe Vada vibe. Studios was oncewill havea medieval to take a trip up there this time around! become a sort of mission statement for illegal quantity of coffee, daily. And mine becomes an almost religious mantra that date, so what can gig-goers expect? chapel above a family tomb, so did the What would you like to say to your fans us,You really. tend to bring your tours to the North Eastgets ofblacker England as I get older.Your music career has getshad trottedsome pretty out as amazing a reason moments any of us so far, We’veYou tend worked to bring hard your for this,tours and to donethe North a Eastlyrical of contentEngland in your newYour album music (whichcareer has thathad willsome be pretty joining amazing you in momentsNewcastle so or far, quite a lot. What do you enjoy the most about the ‘up north’ but what would you sayshould is your have favourite access momentto the assault to date? rifles heavyquite ayear lot. Whatof gigs, do so youwe’re enjoy tight the at themost aboutfeatures the ‘up superstitious north’ practice,but what and would you sayon is the your road? favourite moment to date? Wecrowd? will be seeing you shortly when the This year’s ‘Heavy Fire’ albumMy favourite was really moment thatis getting are present playlisted in theon BBCnever-ending Radio 1 just moment.crowd? When we’re tight we have fun the dark arts — tarot, mementoMy favourite mori, moment Gang!is getting We playlisted like nothing on BBCbetter Radio than 1 just tourIt’s just hits a Middlesbrough,great crowd. I somust what say, can the we North wellEast receivedcrowd must in the musicbecause press. WereI felt so happymass that lotsshootings of people we havelike mein our were country. going to becauseIt’s just a we great can crowd. concentrate I must more say, the on North witchcraft,East crowd hallucination) must because stem from I felt so happymeeting that lots new of people friends like and me catching were going up to expectbe the loudestfrom the crowd show? out there. you happy with the reactionbe listening you saw to for my music!Where It was will an this amazing merry-go-round feeling. take us? thebe the performance loudest crowd than theout music.there. spiritual feelings within bethe listening studios? to Or my music!with It wasold ones.an amazing Join us feeling. for the music and We’re changing the set up from the tour the album? Common sense says “nowhere new” as did it have an influence on your lyrics? let’s make sure we have a good drink at weFinally, did whatin the doesUK back the immediatein March of futurethis bringWe for are you certainly and can pleased Finally, when is our there anythinglong you as want the statusto say quoto the continues. people coming You’reFinally, wellwhat known does thefor immediatebeing influenced future bringAs for a bandyou and we’ve can always Finally,been intois there the anythingthe you bar want after. to say to the people coming year.we look BSR forwardis fortunate to someto have new a cache material in 2017?efforts get validated by ourto see fans you? and the bywe folk look and forward popular to music, some butnew with material your in 2017?magical and mysterious,to especially see you? the ofI have songs a fullthat year our ofaudience touring is the passionate world, but I ammusic making press. time With humility,You’re we allin feltfor a fun night!Black There Star will Riders be sing-songs play The Middlesbroughand some brandI have newa full album, year of ‘Salem’, touring you’ve the world, decided but I amdark making theatrical time craziness You’re of New in for Orleans a fun night!Holy There Moly will & be The sing-songs Crackers and play some Cobalt aboutto write and new expect songs to forhear an every album night to -be releasedconfident in 2018. upon completionswearing, that butwe hadyou’ll haveEmpire a great on time! Tuesday 14th November. to movewrite awaynew songsfrom thefor folkan album genre toand be releasedculture, in 2018. the city where deathswearing, and but the you’ll haveStudios, a great Newcastle time! on Saturday 18th and they love it when we surprise them truly delivered something special with this Tickets, priced at £31.35 in advance create a hard-edge sound. Why was that? spirit world are celebrated in the most November. Tickets, priced at £11.00 withTickets, some priced deeper between tracks £24.19from the - £48.38,three arebatch available of songs. from ‘Heavy Fire’Tickets, is our priced most at £7.70(including (including booking booking fee), fee), are are available available from ITickets, think it pricedwas a naturalbetween thing. £24.19 Our - £48.38, arespectacular available from way: witchcraft,Tickets, voodoo, priced Day at £7.70in (including advance (includingbooking fee), booking are available fee), are albumssagegateshead.com. we’ve released, so expect that. complete body of work fromthus far.thecluny.com. seetickets.com. firstsagegateshead.com. album, ‘First Avenue’, had a lovely of the Dead, Mardi Gras,from jazz thecluny.com. funerals, available from seetickets.com. nostalgic naivety to it. As a band we the ghost stories of the bayou. When I

38 39 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Marta Gabriel

MYTHRA ROB HERON & THE TEAPAD ORCHESTRA “It’s always special to bring our own music home to live audiences” “Rehearsals are for indie bands” North East heavy metal band Mythra got to see so many incredible bands when in his own right, he is a metal fan too Rob Heron & The Teapad Orchestra to listen to my own music. However, will having Paul back do to the sound of prepare to play Trillians, Newcastle we were discovering music as kids back which is important to us. He was surely have one of the most original last week I was at Riley’s Fish Shack the band? this month so Lee Allcock caught up in the 1970s so it’s always special to bring incredibly detailed and focused in the sounds in the UK at the moment. in Tynemouth and they were playing Nothing is a hard task for Paul - he with frontman Vince High to talk about our own music home to live audiences. pre-production stage when we first sent Part rockabilly, part R&B, and a whole that record and for the first few bars is the best drummer in the UK! He Metallica, reuniting after 30 years, and him our demos. Likewise, when we got host of other parts, they’ve gained a I thought: “Cool, what’s this?” Then features on 2/3 of our records, so their latest album. After splitting, you reunited in 2015 for together with him to record in Poland reputation as a unique sounding band I heard my own voice and my toes anyone familiar with those will know your first gig in 30 years. What made you he weaved his magic in a quiet and with a blinding live show. Before their twisted. what he sounds like. I love touring Mythra has been cited as an early want to get back together? unassuming manner and got the best out show at ARC, Stockton we asked with a drummer as it keeps things influence by Lars Ulrich of Metallica. That’s We have Stuart Bartlett, promoter of of us. He is an awesome guy and has been Damian Robinson to catch up with You tend to put out new albums every energetic and gives me space to go off some achievement and it must make you BROFEST UK, to thank for our reunion incredible for Mythra. If Bart had been in them to find out more about their other year, so can we expect one next on performance tangents while there is feel proud… in 2015. Stu originally asked us to do our corner first time around the story of sound and live show. year? someone keeping a solid rhythm behind Metallica are one of the biggest bands on his festival in 2014 but it wasn’t possible. our band might have been very different Yes! I’m not sure when in 2018, but me. the planet so yes, it makes us feel good When he asked again the following year as he puts his band’s first and works his Rob Heron & The Teapad Orchestra the plan is to record in the first half of for sure. Lars wanted to include our we made it happen. Despite being inactive socks off for them! produce quite a unique sound. How the year so keep your eyes out for our Finally, your 7”’s seem to sell out almost song ‘Death and Destiny’ on his 1989 for such a long time, there has been would you best describe yourselves to greatest record yet in the latter half of immediately. Are you going to release compilation album release ‘NWOBHM a continual interest in our music with And finally, what do you have planned for any of our readers who haven’t heard 2018! I have big ideas for it, most of any new pressings soon? Revisited’ but sadly couldn’t get the several re-issues being made available. The 2018? your music yet? which still need to come to fruition. We will no doubt release a new 7” permissions. That album is a collection of audience at our reunion show attracted Our live work continues into next year We coined the term “North Eastern before the next LP, so probably mid his personal music influences and includes people from across Europe, the US and we’re also gearing up to record a swing” for our music as a play on words You’re out on tour at the end of this to late 2018. I do a lot of DJing of 7” a lot of the bands around at the beginning and South America which was amazing. follow-up album in the autumn. We feel from Western swing. We take a lot month, so how are the rehearsals going? records, mainly under the 50s/60s of the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal Offers of European festival shows came incredibly lucky to be able to do what we of influence from early 20th Century Rehearsals? You mean gigs, right? We rhythm and blues bracket, and I want (NWOBHM) in 1979. in immediately and we also hooked up love at this stage in our careers and are American music, including Western only really rehearse if we have a new to produce something that I would with Bart Gabriel (CEO, Skol Records eternally grateful to everyone who turns swing, rockabilly, blues, jazz, R&B, but I record and new material; the rest of play whilst DJing….although I won’t You’ve played around the world, but how and Gabriel Management EU) who up at our shows and buys our music - write my own songs about life here in the time we do enough shows to keep because I don’t like listening to my own does it feel to be playing a hometown gig? subsequently released our Anthology long may it continue! the North of England...hence “North on top of it all. We did a festival in music, but I definitely want to look It’s always very special playing in your album and then produced ‘Still Burning’ Eastern swing”. Ireland last week with a sax player who more closely at that early 60s R&B own backyard. We’ve been fortunate for High Roller Records. Myrtha play Trillians, Newcastle on Sunday had never played with us before and sound including horns, Hammond organ, enough to have played BROFEST UK 12th November where they’ll support US Your last album, ‘Something Blue’, had no rehearsals - and he smashed it! overdriven harmonica and guitar. (held at ) twice What was it like working with Bart on metal outfit, Night Demon. Tickets, priced received great acclaim. A year on from Rehearsals are for indie bands! and the crowds were incredible on both your latest album? at £7.00 in advance, are available from that record, what are your thoughts Rob Heron & The Teapad Orchestra occasions. We were all brought up here Working with Bart was a great trilliansnewcastle.co.uk. when you listen back to it now? Paul is going to be back on the drum play ARC, Stockton on November 18th. and still live in the North East. Newcastle experience. As well as being a label To be honest, I haven’t really heard it stool which, given the nature of your Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, are City Hall and The Mayfair was where we boss and established music producer much since because I don’t really like tunes, I would guess is a hard task. What available from arconline.co.uk.

40 41 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Armley Mills

KING KONG COMPANY LOUISE DISTRAS “We might make some more Commotion Lotion, but don’t tell the monks” “When you have no future the only thing left to do is make your own” Winners of Ireland’s ‘Best Live Act’, the bloody doors off!” Retinas, ears, feet gig at Glastonbury this year, I caught Widely praised as the new face of British You’ve stated in the past that you felt You’ve always had an unshakeable belief creative pioneers King Kong Company and minds will all be at risk of frenzied Primus in London a few months ago, our punk-rock, Louise Distras heads to The your music was a response to being that music can change the world. How have gained a significant reputation for orgasm. keyboard player is still raving about the Cluny 2, Newcastle this month so Reece bullied. What advice would you have for has music formed and shaped your both their music and their live shows. Duran Duran performance at another Hanrahan caught up with her to talk anyone who is young and vulnerable and worldview? Damian Robinson caught up with the Visually, the band is pretty striking, clearly festival we were at. It’s a Bertie Bassett about love and fury, being bullied, and feel they are being bullied? By making me feel less alone, by giving band before their Newcastle show this having an interest in a number of different type of buzz really, all sorts! running away from home. I have no one size fits all advice for me a reason to stay up all night, and month. artistic components outside of ‘just’ the anyone being bullied, but I do have an a reason to wake up in the morning. music. What drives the desire to push so Finally, you have your own brand of beer. Your latest single, ‘Outside of You,’ has ear to lend. Without music a lot of us wouldn’t even So you won an award last year as many different creative elements? What are your brewing secrets? been picked by Team Rock as one of the be here - enough said. Ireland’s Best Live Act. What would There are 12 of us in the King Kong In a word, Buckfast. We launched a best rock songs of 2017. Why do you You ran away from home at a young you say are the key reasons for your Company family and only six of those Buckfast-infused beer earlier in the think this track, in particular, was chosen age. Did this teach you any important Your second album is due to be released consistently good live show? are musicians: one is a dancer, one is a summer in conjunction with the boys for such a prestigious award? lessons? And did you feel you had to sometime in 2018. What can we expect We go to a lot of gigs and festivals and video artist, one is a lighting engineer from YellowBelly Beer. We wanted it I don’t know, but it’s a big compliment! grow up quicker than the average from it when compared to your debut? know what it means for people to put and the rest twiddle knobs and create to be something that would be ideal I try not to think about what other teenager? I’m working on the new album as we their hands in their pockets in order propaganda. The band started as an for festivals. We like Buckfast and our people think and just concentrate on There are things that happened to me speak. I feel it’s a massive progression to fork out their hard-earned foldables unhealthy mix of music and art students. buddies at YellowBelly make beer so writing songs. that made me grow up before I left and a reflection of how I’ve grown as a for a night out. When people go to the That desire to cram a lot of different you don’t have to be a mathematician home, so that’s why I ran away. human being and artist since the release effort and expense of coming to a show, creative elements into what we do is to work out what happened next. After Your music has been described as Feeling voiceless, isolated and ignored of ‘Dreams from the Factory Floor’. I’ve they deserve the best time that we can probably driven by having some skills Commotion Lotion (that was the name channelling ‘anger, into taught me that there is no democracy been road testing tracks this year and possibly give them. We also want to in lots of different areas and secondly of our Buckfast-infused beer) hit the anthems of love and fury for yet another for young people and that when you I’m so happy fans are just as excited as I have a good time when we’re playing because that side of things is also fun. shelves, we were contacted by Buckfast; let-down generation’. What kind of have no future the only thing left to do is am about the new songs. The new album and our excitement and energy seems Lofty creates the images and they can they didn’t seem overly thrilled by our musical legacy would you like to leave? make your own. will be released around May next year to translate to audiences and then they get a bit twisted at times. With it being unholy union, but it was too late by then, I think once you write a song and send it then I’m going to be hitting the road multiply it and feed it back to us. mushroom season you should probably it had all been drunk. It turned out to back into the universe it doesn’t belong Your influences include punk rock and hard – I can’t wait. err on the side of moderation if you’re be very popular. We might make some to you anymore. It starts to mean a bands such as Nirvana. What is it about We’ll see you in the North East of having a cup of mushroom tea before more Commotion Lotion, but don’t tell thousand different things to a thousand these bands that you felt you could draw Louise Distras plays The Cluny 2, England this month. What can we expect? coming to a show. the monks! different people and how people on? Newcastle on Monday 13th November. Our dancer and crowd fluffer, Box-Head, connect is not something you have any I grew up listening to bands like Nirvana, Tickets, priced at £11.00 in advance, are will light the fuse on a stick of dubby Who do you see/look to for inspiration? King Kong Company plays Think Tank control over - it’s a beautiful thing! So I Queen, The Clash, Alice In Chains, Sex available at thecluny.com. electro-rock that will blow the hinges off Our guitar player Aley is heading to see Underground on Tuesday 7th November. never really thought about what kind of Pistols and the Bee Gees! The one thing the most stubborn of inhibitions. Michael St. Vincent next week, a few of us are Tickets, priced at £6.60, are available from musical legacy I’d like to leave; it seems a they all have in common is that their Caine often walks up to us after gigs and going to the Kurupt FM live show next seetickets.com. bit morbid right now. music made me feel like I wasn’t alone says: “You were only supposed to blow month, we really got off on the Justice and that punk rock means being yourself.

42 43 New Year’s Eve 2017 FEATURING

Plus House Gospel Choir 31 December | 8:30 WANT TO ADVERTISE IN Ring in New Year the way A party to end all parties with Candi Staton, House Gospel Choir, great food and drink options, DJs and live performances on the concourse ‘til late. GET YOUR GIG OR BUSINESS OUT THERE FROM AS LITTLE AS £65.00!

0191 443 4661 | SAGEGATESHEAD.COM CONTACT LEE - [email protected] NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS

Heaven’ and ‘This Town Ain’t Being Enough release receiving positive reviews from fans For Both of Us’ are perfectly delivered and critics - and it’s not hard to see why. The with expected panache and slapstick stage TWISTER night began with an exclusive acoustic set for SPARKS VIP ticket holders which saw the band play presence; obviously provocative in the way they challenge the audience to re-consider through their own material as well as covers at Boiler Shop, Newcastle the borders often placed around what pop + Nephilim for a packed out room - showcasing their music is and what it can be. musical ability stripped back to its rawest 19/09/2017 Yet it’s the small but purposeful challenges + Your Illuminations form. The VIP bundle also included a copy of which are most impactful to the evening, their album, ‘Refined State Of Mind’, featuring Written and photographed particularly ‘My Baby’s Taking Me Home’ At The Georgian Theatre, their fantastic new single. by Damian Robinson with its eve-repeating chorus lyric. Initially The band was supported by Stockton heavy slapstick, it’s the lyric repetition which Stockton rock band, Nephilim, and Your Illuminations - Provocative pop music is often reduced allows the song to transcend its presented a pop-rock trio from the heart of Yorkshire to the unhelpful generalisation of being meaning and reveal the songs real intent: 22/09/2017 who hyped up the crowd ahead of Twister’s a prayer of comfort by a dying lover to set. Consisting of frontman Stevie Stoker, any music possessing a pre-mediated, Written and photographed obviously anti-social, attack on established a loved one who’s already passed over. guitarist Jake Grimes, bassist Matt Whitaker by Sarah Smith common norms (pelvis-thrusting Elvis, Similar in content and presentation to and drummer Joe Major, it’s obvious that delinquent Rolling Stones, bisexual Ziggi, Bowie’s ‘Lazarus’, it’s heart-breaking. Twister share more than just a love of music Welcome to the state of mind! Durham- etc.). Dig a little deeper, however, and We see similar phenomena with ‘Sherlock as their chemistry on stage with each other based pop/rock band, Twister, played the you find that many of music’s finest Holmes’ and ‘All I Do is Dick Around’, with is second to none. The show, which was a Georgian Theatre in Stockton to launch provocations used subtle, rather than both songs using deliberately cartoonish well-orchestrated masterpiece from start to their latest single, ‘64 White Lies’. grand, gestures. In the late 90s, Marilyn lyrics and bubblegum melodies to deceive finish, showcased their greatest hits including Following the release of their highly- Manson’s dark, satanic, image shocked, the listener and camouflage central themes ‘Trees’, ‘Monroe’, ‘Feeding Frenzy’, ‘Watch anticipated album ‘Combined State Of but nowhere near as much as David of heartbreak and inadequacy. Over You’ and ‘Trading Hearts’, before the Mind’ at Newcastle’s O2 Academy back in LaCapelle’s iconic image of a Teletubby- The brothers are both masters in blending sensational new single, ‘64 White Lies’, which May this year, the band has since continued hugging, shirt-unbuttoned, supposedly high and low brow art and rewarding an their fans couldn’t get enough of. to blow crowds away with their completely virgin, Britney Spears. audience for staying focused and avoiding For anyone who hasn’t seen this band live I unique sound, playing at venues up and Always looking for a reaction, Sparks’ distractions. can’t recommend going to see them enough. down the UK. The band was even lucky Boiler Shop show proved, as we all Proving that they’ve spent almost half The on-stage chemistry, powerful vocals and enough to have their newest single, ‘64 knew, that the brothers can deliver huge a century provoking us, whether we’ve stunning visuals are on a whole new level White Lies’, played on Kerrang Radio ahead statements in a way few other pop/ noticed or not, this is live pop music in its and I can’t wait to see what they go on to of their launch party in Stockton, with the dance/opera acts can. ‘Number One in most meaningful form. achieve in the coming months.

as much material as possible. The whole outsiders fascinated by both the performance is slick, polished and above destructive and redemptive elements of JARET REDDICK all, extremely enjoyable.Now for the main THE JESUS AND rock ‘n’ roll. Almost six months on since the album’s release, and having toured man himself: Jaret Reddick. As expected non-stop since March, it’s pleasant to from the Bowling for Soup frontman, the + The Lounge Kittens see that the brothers haven’t imploded moments in between songs are just as MARY CHAIN at Riverside, Newcastle or changed their live traditions. Dressed important as the songs themselves. Yes, at Empire, Middlesbrough all in black, performing on a blackened 19/09/2017 there are the expected innuendos, yet the stage, Jim stands alone clutching his whole performance is so much more raw 24/09/2017 mic stand as both a weapon and an Written and photographed and honest, partially due to the stripped emotional crutch while William, off to back nature of an acoustic show but also the right, head down, surrounded by by Zoe Martin Written by Damian Robinson due to Jaret’s anecdotal ramblings. Not only pedals and amps, combines with Jim Photography by Mel Butler In all honesty, I was slightly apprehensive do we hear the stories behind the songs, to produce a riotous soundtrack to about tonight’s show after watching Jaret but the frontman opens up about so much debauchery, honey, deviance, machoism, Reddick’s pop-punk band Bowling for Soup more, such as his struggles with depression Speaking to NE Volume in March, death, and destruction. The focal point, headline a set at Slam Dunk Festival earlier and subsequent weight gain, and how he declared that the perfect outcome for as always, is the sound coming from this year. Despite being known for their had to fire his best friend. However, it’s new Mary Chain release ‘Damage and William’s guitar, with his hooligan-art between-song banter, it wildly missed the not all doom and gloom as the singer Joy’ would be that it “really affected Mary style taking Pete Townshend’s aggressive, Chain fans and music fans in the right anti-establishment form and dragging mark; filled with crude jokes and sexual consistently pokes fun at both himself and way.” Sounding like a formality in a career it into modern times. It’s a style which some of the more rowdy members of the innuendos aimed at younger members surrounded by in-fighting and abuse, the provides the band with both a drone and of the audience, it was possibly the most crowd. Whilst this may not be a show for one thing Mary Chain fans have always a swagger, and on top of which Jim places uncomfortable I’ve felt at a gig. However, the casual Bowling for Soup fan, the setlist been able to rely on is life affecting music. his vastly underrated live vocals, which tonight was completely different - and I was caters for all: from some of their most Equal parts Beach Boys, Ramones, White are particularly stinging on ‘Always Sad’ pleasantly surprised. Armed simply with a famous songs (including ‘1985’) to the most Noise and Phil Spector, ‘Damage and Joy’ with its refrain: ‘I think I’m always gonna piano, sparkly outfits, and an impressive vocal obscure, with Jaret taking requests from proved yet again that very little in music be sad’. Known for their damnation, range, The Lounge Kittens are the first to the crowd. All in all, it’s a performance that is as moving as the sound of Jim Reid debauchery, and aggression, they’re often grace the stage. However, ‘grace’ is possibly showcases Jaret’s witty raconteur skills, his exposing his soul over William’s feedback- never credited for their melancholy. not the most accurate word to describe comfortable interaction with the crowd, heavy, menacing, post-punk, guitar sounds. No one is as affecting as The Jesus and the Southampton harmony trio. Making the and of course his musical ability. Dark, dirty and sexual, the East Kilbride Mary Chain at their best. most of their support slot, they squeeze in brothers prove that they are still furious

46 47 NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS

numbers gathered around the stage - to Get You’. While the band provided an and for good reason. Blood Youth’s set amazing performance with energetic stage BLESSTHEFALL is blistering, and the crowd loves it. The NECK DEEP presence, Hope for the Day, a suicide crowd is the most energetic they’ve been prevention platform, frequently conveyed all night, with onslaughts of crowd surfers their vital message about fighting against + Blood Youth + The NX and stage divers. There is no doubt that + Woes + Real Friends the incorrect stigma of mental health, and this band is set for big things, especially if that ‘it’s okay not to be okay’. They united at Think Tank? Newcastle they carry on storming their way through + As It Is the crowd, creating a beautiful atmosphere the scene. Unfortunately, this sense while selling merchandise to help promote 27/09/2017 of anticipation and excitement doesn’t At 02 Academy, Newcastle the positive message; encouraging people continue. In fact, I’d say there are fewer to seek out the support they need and Written and photographed people gathered in front of the stage for 07/10/17 that they are not alone and that each loved by Zoe Martin the headliners. However, that’s not to say individual mattered. Welsh Band Neck Blessthefall don’t put on an impressive Written by Lauren Thomas Deep, consisting of members Ben Barlow Despite the rain and general gloominess show. Opening with ‘2.0/What’s Left of Me’ (lead vocalist), Dani Washington (drummer), of this autumnal Thursday night, there from 2009 album, ‘Witness’, the Arizona After the recent release of their new Sam Bowden (lead guitarist), Fil Thorpe- is still a queue for Blessthefall when I five-piece storm through a well-rounded album ‘The Peace and the Panic’ on Friday Evans (bassist) and Matt West (rhythm arrive shortly after doors at Newcastle’s setlist from multiple albums spanning 18th August, Neck Deep exploded onto guitarist), performed a total of 19 songs Think Tank? (one of my favourite venues their career. Lead singer Beau Bokan is the O2 Academy stage after outstanding from emotional acoustic to true pop-punk in the toon). The night is kicked off by no stranger to crowd interaction, even support from Woes, Real Friends and As hits which captivated the crowd who cried, local support The NX, who describe jumping into the crowd and leading them It Is. Each support act brought distinctive screamed and connected with each piece. themselves as ‘the new wave of British into a circle pit. Highlights from the set passion to their individual performances Each of the five band members equally party Rock ‘n’ Roll’. Whilst their energy include fan favourites such as ‘You Wear a and interacted with the crowd to create a portrayed confidence and enthusiasm to and commitment to their performance Crown But You’re No King’ and ‘See You fantastic, intimate bond between artist and create an electric show which had everyone is impressive, their whole set would on the Outside’. The only downside is that crowd who were eagerly anticipating the in the room bouncing and singing with be lifted if they could keep up this the set seems slightly short but I expect exciting, imminent arrival of the main act. devotion. They ended their performance with enthusiasm between songs as well. Five that this is something beyond the control Moreover, Neck Deep’s exceptional three emotional acoustic songs, however, minutes before Yorkshire lads Blood of the band.The choice of venue was setlist lasted about an hour and contained they came back for an encore with such Youth are due to take the stage, the perfect for this show: the lack of barrier songs mainly from their new album, power and boldness; it was a truly impressive atmosphere has completely changed; at Think Tank? really allowed for a sweaty, including their latest single ‘In Bloom’, but performance which fascinated every fan who the crowd has clearly shaken off those intimate and energetic show and one that also a few timeless tracks from previous relished every moment. September blues and there are significant fans won’t forget for a while. albums ‘Rain in July’ and ‘Life’s Not Out

that rock stars can get old gracefully stories of love and betrayal in a way and remain purposeful - she’s still not that only Meadowlark could. In the dark, THE content and still angry. Honouring the intimate room lit only with the sultry MEADOWLARK stage light, the talents of Broadley did not past, Hynde dedicates early Pretenders tracks to Honeyman-Scott and Farndon go unnoticed. Every beat of every song PRETENDERS (“we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for + Danny Devon was felt by the talented musician, and the them, but they’d probably be here if connection the two had was apparent. it wasn’t for us”). It’s a nice way of at The Cluny, Newcastle Album track ‘Eyes Wide’ had previously at City Hall, Newcastle demonstrating her charm and insight as been added to BBC Radio 1’s Introducing well as reminding us that The Pretenders 07/10/2017 Playlist, featured on XFM’s Evening Playlist 30/09/2017 were always a dangerous band - a point and also featured on Hype Machines often overlooked by their sugar-coated Written by Meghan Ewart Top 20. The pair, however, kept this song Written by Damian Robinson post debut-album material. Sam Cooke grounded allowing the atmospheric quoting ‘Chain Gang’ is delivered in Glastonbury’s Meadowlark performed production to compliment the lyrics. Outside, pre-show, it’s insightful to watch classic outlaw style, while both ‘Brass debut album ‘Postcards’ beautifully to ‘Postcards’ is the self-titled track from the snarls disappear from the faces of, adjacent, in Pocket’ and ‘Night in my Veins’ their expectant fans at Newcastle’s debut album. Performed midway through North East Calling punk festival attendees demonstrate the full lust and seduction The Cluny tonight. Released in June, the the set, the band delighted their fans with as they realise it’s The Pretenders playing of Hynde; reminding us that the album holds tracks such as ‘Headlights’ lyrics referencing vulnerability and love. the City Hall tonight, not some middle- Pretenders were as much about sexual and ‘Paraffin’ which showcases their ‘I just want you to know, it’s nice to be class claptrap. liberation and good time rock ‘n’ roll as iconic dulcet tones. Having only formed loved’ is an iconic lyric claimed by the band The reaction of the punks perfectly they were about political activism. The five years ago, Kate McGill and Dan to be written in a wooden hut. demonstrates the difference between highlight of the night, ‘I’ll Stand by You’, Broadley have produced a memorable The band was supported by Hartlepool’s credibility and counterfeit in the genre: does a great job of both reclaiming the and breathtaking album. The intimate own Danny Devon. The talented artist sang punks essence, continually exemplified by single from various awful cover versions venue was awash with the talented self-penned songs referencing a difficult The Pretenders, steadfastly being about and also reminding us that the song was McGill’s powerful vocals - and Broadley’s childhood and journeys afar. A mixture individualism rather than conformity to always about our responsibility to play a capabilities to manage percussion on of country and indie music made the set any uniformity in style, sound or beliefs. part in society and look out for others. all levels were apparent to the eager memorable and had the audience gripped. It’s the opening night of their UK tour and Hydne’s emotive delivery is enough crowd. Their stunning tracks, including Meadowlark proved they’re a duo ready to Ms. Hynde is already match fit: playing and to bring tears. The punks were right in ‘See That Day’ and ‘I Could Be the One’, pave the way to the top of the charts and singing like every action could, as it should, giving The Pretenders the respect they proved why McGill gained over 10 certainly left fans in Newcastle wanting make a difference. Her performance, deserved as few bands do it as well. million YouTube views on her channel. more. poised and rebellious, is justification The lyrics held a mature sound telling

48 49 NE VOLUME ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS NE VOLUME ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS

CREASE ST. BURYAN SWEARS TOMORROW IS LOST JACK FOX & THE ANDREW JOHNSON ‘The Everglades’ ‘Forget To Love’ ‘Faith in the Nation’ ‘Insane’ HARBOURMASTER ‘Wildest Wind’ EP Review Album Review Single Review Single Review Single Review ‘The Lower Case II’ Written by Damian Robinson Written by Reece Hanrahan Written by Wayne Madden Written by Reece Hanrahan Written by Paul Kemp Single Review Trent Reznor may be known as ‘ makes busy people look lazy’, yet Crease has exploded onto the Teesside I once described St. Buryan as the SWEARS are one of the hottest new Musical groups are a strange even Mr. Nine Inch Nail might struggle music scene with their debut album, perfect combination of Newcastle bands on the Teesside phenomenon: some bands get Written by Damian Robinson to keep up with Andrew Johnson. Having ‘The Everglades’ - and I must admit, and Sunderland passions - something music scene. Bringing together musical together simply because they’re already released two albums in 2018 they’re one of the tightest three-pieces the fans at St James’ might learn from veterans Joel Clayton (vocalist and looking for something to do and then When the K Foundation burnt a million (his 14th solo album ‘Imaginary Perfect’ around at the moment. Drawing from - and it was such a good statement guitarist), Craig Hughes (bass and there are those bands that work quid they weren’t doing so because they and Cherry Head, Cherry Heart’s influences such as the best parts of that I’m inspired to use it here again. stunning cheekbones), and siblings hard to create something that sounds had too much cash and not enough pop-perfect ‘Tarred and Feathered’), early Chilli Peppers, Soundgarden and Whether it’s because I “get” St Buryan, George (Frank Zappa reincarnated) & effortless. Well, Newcastle space to put it, rather they wanted Johnson returns with a new EP to further lashings of Jimi Hendrix, expect funky or because they “get” me, this band Stephanos (self-deprecating drummer) five-piece, Tomorrow is Lost, proves to challenge conventional thinking demonstrate his creative drive.Kicking basslines, ear-scorching guitar solos and is one of the most refreshing and Louca, they’re a band that is immediately to be the latter. Their debut single, by doing something so extreme that off the EP with a “correct” version of thundering drums. ‘Hedonise’ greets us enjoyable acts I’ve had the pleasure making waves across the region. ‘Insane,’ has just been released and a it forced people to question what the title song (a “wrong” version was as the opening track with a hypnotic to see and hear over the past several SWEARS have been kicking up a fuss host of eager fans - that the band has Western society had become. We’d included on the ‘Imaginary Perfect’ riff while vocalist Jonathan Staff sings months. Regional superiority aside, a around the local music scene and have steadily earned during the first year seen similar provocation in the music record) we’re off with an upbeat, good triumphantly about the ‘disco dynamite’ song like ‘Forget to Love’ belongs in now released the single everyone has of being together – have managed to of the KLF, but none of their earlier time, pop-meets-rock sound.‘Wrong Side of the hedonistic lifestyle of partying all the national attention of music lovers been waiting for, ‘Faith in the Nation’. get their hands on something which, work truly provided an opportunity of You’ maintains the EP’s mid-90s Britpop night. Second track, ‘Amoeba’, has an and is a beautiful combination of rich Frontman, Joel Clayton, had this to say at times, is rather special. From the for us to prepare for the intensity of feel; bouncing along with a sound that Eastern-tinged psychedelic feeling and is keyboard-fused guitar work and catchy about the new single: “The world is run opening of the track, it sincerely their questioning of the space between combines the joyous style of Space with more pensive than our opening banger, beats. Vocally, there’s an Indie quality by egos and idiots, so we wrote this song. surprises me that this is a band that art and commerce.Few bands since a McCartney-inspired popping bassline. while the band mediates on how we about it, but one which still retains the We wrote ‘Faith in the Nation’ around has only been together for a short the KLF have used their style of all-out Demonstrating his ability to write in a should ‘Try to anticipate what might musical energy and positivity that makes the time of the general election so it’s period of time as the song has just as sample bombing mixed with in your variety of styles, Johnson uses the final disintegrate’. ‘This Ride’ features surreal someone who despises indie – that’s a reflection on the feelings of animosity much production value and mastery face, satirical, brutally honest narratives two tracks of the EP to push his sound imagery and a stream of consciousness- me – find it impossible not to sing it stirred up, the impact and prevalence as something you would expect from to challenge and disrupt the status quo. and experiment. ‘King of a Broken Scene’ style lyricism twinned with a brilliant along to the bridge on only my second of social and the mainstream media on a rock band that has been in the And it’s about time we had one. So good is fascinating, with its use of psychedelic sound bite of the late American stand listen. Never let it be said that love cultivating and solidifying attitudes, and industry for a long time. However, news, we do - and they’re from our guitars, wistful lyrics and low in the mix up comedian, Bill Hicks, with one of his isn’t true, and that’s perfectly a way to growing feelings of distrust towards the polished sound and classic rock shores. Jack Fox & The Harbourmaster vocals in a style reminiscent of the Stone most well-known segments about life sum up a song that is like The Kooks governance and the idea of the nation- stylings are marred only by the niggling have created a piece of art which brims Roses/’Butterfly-House’ era Coral. being a ride. The track length for ‘Julie’ meeting Robert Smith, even then if St state.” But how does it sound? feeling that this track is rather generic with humorous contempt at the state of Final track, ‘Lonely No Good’, saves clocks in at a lightning fast 1:42, however Buryan start jumping out of wardrobes I The track starts with an instantly ear- at times and the band could have been the nation and the stupidity of the ‘art’ the best, and simplest, tune to the end this song is definitely quality over probably wouldn’t be surprised. I’ve also drawing bassline and then an out of the a little bit more adventurous. That business. Punk in the way it champions using just a piano, a solo vocal line and quantity and features hilarious lyrics hinted this band should be supporting ordinary guitar riff. It’s tightly constructed being said, this is their first single, and creating your own music and finding a unique narrative. Similar in feel to the such as “Julie’s boobies are the best, heavyweights like New Found Glory and even more tightly produced. It has it’s a good attempt, but I can only hope your own samples, dance in the way Beautiful South’s ‘Song for Whoever’, she’s the number one contender when due to their pop-punk sound, playful a good sense of dynamics and employs that they expand their musical talents that you groove along, and provocative you get the sense of a writer explaining it comes to breasts, and we all like your overtones and infectious energy – some the quiet/loud structure that has become for their next release – they don’t in its Sleaford Mods-esque rhymes, ‘The some of their key defining moments personality too” - showing the band’s of that is more present on this track synonymous with alternative rock. need to play as safe as they have this Lower Case ii’ steps as far away from in a structure which provides the right more humorous side. Final track, ‘Fidget’, than not – but the beauty of this bands’ The lyrical content ponders on the time around. ‘Insane’ by Tomorrow is an art genre as you can when creating blend of silence and space needed when moves along with a Hendrix-inspired back catalogue is that they’re not afraid current state of affairs in a country Lost was released on Saturday 28th something which still needs to be a drawing attention to the lyrics. Picasso wah wah guitar sound and shows the to experiment with sound. gripped by political and social turmoil October as is available now on both part of it. Is this record too idealistic? once defended hard work, arguing that band at their strongest and grooviest. And for the naysayers’, or those in the while Joel sings on the chorus:”I had a iTunes and Spotify. Possibly. But as the K Foundation proved, ‘Inspiration exists, but it has to find you Overall it’s an absolutely cracking first band who think I must have been paid vision but now I’m losing my faith in the For further information about idealism is perhaps one of the only ways working’. Mr. Johnson carries on working, album from the Crease lads. This is by their manager to write such favorable nation”. ‘Faith in the Nation’ is everything Tomorrow is Lost, and to keep up-to- an artist with a real message has to carries on being inspired, and continues definitely one of the strongest debut words, I did find a single criticism within you could want from a first single. date with their touring schedule, head make a difference. to inspire those who chose to listen. efforts to come out of Teesside. this track – it’s far too short. You can listen to the single now on to Facebook.com/tomorrowislost. For further information about the Head to andrewjohnson1.bandcamp. You can purchase ‘The Everglades’ now To listen to ‘Forget To Love’ head to YouTube. release head to Facebook.com/ com/album/wildest-wind-e-p to purchase at musicglue.com/crease. soundcloud.com/stburyanband now. harbourmasterproductions. the EP.

50 51 NE VOLUME NOVEMBER 2017 GIG LISTINGS NE VOLUME NOVEMBER 2017 GIG LISTINGS • Rage Against A Machine. • John Watterson. • GTA Music Presents: Tuesday 7th November The Blues Band. Trillians, Newcastle. Toft House, Middlesbrough. NOVEMBER 2017 GIG LISTINGS ARC, Stockton. £22.00 Adv. • Together PANGEA. • + Alex Cameron. • Uncle Gilbert. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.80 Adv. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Wednesday 1st November • Joe Blades + Mikey Dawson. • Ben Nicky + Jordan Suckley • The Magic Band Play the Music • The Doors Alive. • Harry Manx. • The Hoosiers: The Trick To Life. The Little Tanner, Northallerton. + Ruben De Ronde + Elektriqa DJs. of CaptanBeefheart. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £14.60 Adv. Earthbeat Centre, Saltburn. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Rhythm Emissions. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £17.40 Adv. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Andromeda. • The Loft Boys. £14.10 Adv. The Voyager, South Shields. • Stephen Mordue. • Blue Rise Code. The Railway, Gateshead. Free. The Railway, Gateshead. Free. • + Rat Boy • Fu Fighters. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Fizzy Fish. • Black Balled Band. + Kyle Falconer. Trillians, Newcastle. • Clash City Rockers. • Fret! + Lovely Wife. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Trillians, Newcastle. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. • Rigid Digits. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Trillians, Newcastle. • Andrew Raochford. • Folkworks: Future Traditions. • The Cornshed Sisters. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Drama Club Rejects. • Joanne Shaw Taylor + Dan Patlans. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. Sage, Gateshead. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Ferocious Dog. Trillians, Newcastle. Sage, Gateshead. £18.70 Adv. • Jazz Jam. • Magic Wands O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Folkworks: Julie Fowlis. • Hot Club of Cowtown. • The Hempolics. Empty Shop, Durham. + Behold A Pale Horse. £16.90 Adv. Sage, Gateshead. Sage Two, Gateshead. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Every Time I Die. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Charlie Thomas. Sunday 5th November £8.00 Adv, £10.00 OTD. Riverside, Newcastle. £16.50 Adv. • Lulu. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. Wednesday 8th November • Son of Dave. • Giroscope. Sage, Gateshead. £4.00 Adv/£6.00 OTD. • Nothing But Thieves. • Rise Against + Sleeping With Sirens The Green Room, Stockton. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Folkworks: Martin Simpson. • Black Ice – AC/DC Tribute. O2 Academy, Newcastle. + Pears. £12.50 Adv, £15.00 Adv. • Songs from Northern Britain. Sage Two, Gateshead. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Cutty Bang Variety. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £36.50 Adv. • Gnaw VII + Old Man Lizard The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Day of the Dead Party. £6.00 Adv/£8.00 OTD. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Culture feat. Kenyatta Hill. + Elephant Tree + Cattle + Waheela £10.00 Adv. Trillians, Newcastle. • PigsPigsPigsPigsPigsPigs + Apologies. • Jazz Jam. The Cluny, Newcastle. + HOT SEX FOR BOYS. • Absolute Bowie + Into.The.Deep. • Live Buskers. The Cluny, Newcastle. Empty Shop, Durham. • Fret! + Ghost Guilt + The Noise The Cluny 2, Newcastle. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Deep Purple in Rock. • KILLIT + Paris Dancer + Dox. & The Naïve. • Bessie and the Zinc Buckets. • Inspired Artists Agency Presents: The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Trillians, Newcastle. Thursday 2nd November Empty Shop, Durham. £5.00 OTD. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Blair Dunlop + Brooke Sharkey. • The Lake Poets + The Alan Hull • Feld Music + Warm Digits • Losing Ground + Atlas Run + Local. • The Della Grants. ARC, Stockton. £12.00 Adv. • The Martin Barre Band. Songbook + Trev Gibb. + Barry Hyde + JaZZRiOT. Trillians, Newcastle. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. • The Filthy Tongues + The Clarions. ARC, Stockton. £17.50 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Live Buskers. £12.00. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Jane Weaver. • Wire. • Embrace. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Cahin the Pheonix + Mylton The Cluny, Newcastle. Riverside, Newcastle. £15.95 Adv. Middlesbrough Empire. £22.00 Adv. Sunday 12th November + Seasons Hallow + Paul Longstaff. • Immortal Bird + Moshpig + Yersin. • Pale Kids + Slumb Party • The Good Music Club Thursday 9th November Musiclounge, Stockton. • Unleash the Archers. Trillians, Newcastle. + Proto Idiot + Slurs. with Ellis Rayner. • Von Hertzen Brothers. • Forever Amy. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £11.00 Adv. • Squeeze + 9 Below Zero. Empty Shop, Durham. £5.00. The Masham, Hartburn. Free. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £16.50 Adv. Riverside, Newcastle. £24.75 Adv. • Pat McManus. Sage, Gateshead. • Fozzy. Saturday 4th November • The Folk Sessions. • The Stray Birds + Kari MacLeod. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Anna & Elizabeth. Riverside, Newcastle. £17.60 Adv. Empty Shop, Durham. Gosforth Civic Theatre. • Danny Smith. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Big Thief. • Plugged Out: Jack Bowden. • Torous + Satans Empire + Millenium. • Dakota. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. • Newton Faulkner. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £12.10 Adv. The ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. Trillians, Newcastle. The Burn, Houghton. Free. • Night Demon + Mythra. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • The Anticeptics + Kickback • Jazz North East Presents: • Nick Dixon. • The Flytes. Trillians, Newcastle. £7.00. £25.35 Adv. Generations + Alien 8 + Bull Eris 136199 + Inclusion Principle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. The Cross Keys, Washington. Free. • Jazz North East Presents: + Salsola. Bridge Hotel, Newcastle. £8.00. Friday 3rd November £5.65 Adv. • Magnetic North East: Kathryn Tickell Paul Gowland Quartet Musiclounge, Stockton. • Blake – 10th Anniversary Tour. • Akala. + The Lake Poets + Baltic Crossing. + Noel Dennis Quartet. • Island + Leif Erikson. • Soul Night with Steve Tulip. The Custom House, South Shields. Riverside, Newcastle. £16.50 Adv. Sage, Gateshead. Bridge Hotel, Newcastle. £8.00. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.80 Adv. Empty Shop, Durham. £21.00. • The Small Fakers + Who’s Who. • Great Waves + Mausoleums • Revenant. Saturday 11th November Monday 13th November Monday 6th November The Cluny, Newcastle. + Parallex + Joe Doe Experiment. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. • Left Lane Cruiser + Dave Arcari. • Husky Loops. • Wolf Alice. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Penetration + Uproar. • Clean Bandit. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £7.70 Adv. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £21.90 Adv. • Y&T. The Cluny, Newcastle. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £25.85 Adv. • Many Moons + Sapien Trace • Armed for Apocalypse. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Richard Dawson + MichaelChapman. • Too Many Zooz. Friday 10th November + Singapore Safehouse + James Trillians, Newcastle. £19.70 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. Riverside, Newcastle. £23.10 Adv. • Tygers of Pan Tang. Lewsi Mocket. • Itch. • Hope City Rockers. • Vant. • E-Dojo Gaming Night. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £11.00 Adv. Musiclounge, Stockton. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. The Railway, Gateshead. Free. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £10.00 Adv. Trillians, Newcastle.

52 53 NE VOLUME NOVEMBER 2017 GIG LISTINGS NE VOLUME NOVEMBER 2017 GIG LISTINGS

• Blind Boy Paxton. • Blackbeard’s Tea Party Tuesday 28th November Sunday 19th November Gosforth Civic Theatre. £13.00. + Doomfolk. NOVEMBER 2017 GIG LISTINGS • The Cadillac Three + Brothers • Avenger + Spartan Warrior. The Hut, Goathland. • The Darkness. Osbrone. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Tuesday 14th November • Daniel Romano. Trillians, Newcastle. • Deftones UK. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £31.45 Adv. • Insane Clown Posse The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Kevin Montgomery. Trillians, Newcastle. £21.35 Adv. • Jazz North East Presents: Kapok. + Mushroomhead + Death Blooms. • Giroscope. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Jump the Gun. • Yungen. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. Jazz Café, Newcastle. £8.00. O2 Academy, Newcastle. The Railway, Gateshead. Free. Friday 24th November O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Soul Legends. £25.85 Adv. • Megadeth UK. Wednesday 29th November • Craig Davies. • My Vitriol. Trillians, Newcastle. • HAUS. Sage, Gateshead. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. • Kobra and the Lotus + Brutai. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Live Injection. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £7.70 Adv. • Oberhausen Party ft. Francis Riley • The Vibrators. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £13.20 Adv. £20.82 Adv. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. • BallBreakers. & The Floorboarders. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Nelly. • Black Star Riders. • Suspect Device. Trillians, Newcastle. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Amusement Parks on Fire O2 Academy, Newcastle. Middlesbrough Empire. £31.35 Adv. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Acoustic Weller. £6.50 Adv. + Misty Coast. £31.45 Adv. • John Mayall. • The UK Rock Legends. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • FM. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Keri Watt. Sage, Gateshead. Forum Music Centre, Darlington. • Burn Down Disco. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Worry Dolls. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00. Musiclounge, Stockton. • The Clone Roses + True Order Wednesday 15th November The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Live Buskers. • Folkworks: Jon Boden & The • The Spitfires. + The Adlets. • Enter Shikari + Atlantis Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Andy Nye Music Ltd Presents: Remnant Kings. The Cluny, Newcastle. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £14.60 Adv. + Astroid Boys. Wishbone Ash + Steve Hill. Sage, Gateshead. • FM. • Glasville. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. Thursday 30th November ARC, Stockton. £21.00 Adv. • Brix & The Extricated. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £16.90 Adv. £33.50 Adv. • Japanese TV Club. • Rex Regis. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Elenbak. • Plugged Out: Ian Campbell. • WolfBastard + BastardFace. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Nation in Ruin + Vulgar Dissection The Burn, Houghton. Free. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. Trillians, Newcastle. • The Union Choir ‘Ghost in the • Pumarosa. £5.65 Adv. + Spreading the Disease + IMRD. Sunday 26th November Room’ Album Launch. The Cluny, Newcastle. • The John Fairhurst Band. Musiclounge, Stockton. Monday 20th November The Cluny 2, Newcastle. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Lewis Capaldi. • Findlay Napier. • The Colin Blunstone Band. Saturday 18th November • Marika Hackman. • Funk Soul Social November. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £9.00 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £12.10 Adv. • Day Time TV. Sage, Gateshead. • Weaves. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Blaenavon. • Chris Rea. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Dakesis + Fury. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £9.90 Adv. £8.00 Adv/£10.00 Adv. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. City Hall, Newcastle. • Doomsday Outlaws Trillians, Newcastle. • Lost on Me + Grasscutter • Kasabian. £11.25 Adv. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. • Tyketto. + Saint of Arcadia + Dox. • Live Buskers. + Deadlock Saints. Tuesday 21st November Trillians, Newcastle. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Elenbak. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Chris Rea + C. Macleod. • Milburn. The Railway, Gateshead. Free. • Josh Hodgson. Thursday 16th November Sage, Gateshead. Riverside, Newcastle. £22.00 Adv. • Scouting for Girls. The Ship Isis, Sunderland. Free. • Shawn James & The Shapeshifters. • Little Steven & The Disciples • Big Sister. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Solitary. Trillians, Newcastle. Of Soul. The Cleveland Hotel, Redcar. • Gilmore & Roberts. Trillians, Newcastle. ARC, Stockton. £8.50 Adv. • Gaslighters. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Senser + Credit to the Nation Wednesday 22nd November WANT TO • Photomartyr + Sauna Youth. + Knots. • Pale Seas. The Voyager, South Shields. • Live Buskers. The Cluny, Newcastle. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. Independent, Sunderland. £3.00 Adv. • Jazz Jam. Three Tuns, Gateshead. ADVERTISE IN • The Cactus Blossoms. • Bad Touch. • Jazz North East and GemArts Empty Shop, Durham. • Carl Stacey Project. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. The Cluny, Newcastle. Presents: Sandrani. • Jaws. Head of Steam, Newcastle. • Spreading the Disease. • Guy Tortona Band. Jazz Café, Newcastle. £8.00. Riverside, Newcastle. £11.00 Adv. £3.00 OTD. • Voice of the Town Choir Presents: Trillians, Newcastle. Redcar Citizen Club. Saturday 25th November Soul Struttin’. GET YOUR GIG OR • Dirty South. Thursday 23rd November Friday 17th November Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Offpeak. Gosforth Civic Theatre. £13.00. BUSINESS OUT THERE • Falling Red + Fahran. • Counterparts. • Penetration. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £5.50 Adv. • Martin Stephenson & The Daintees. FROM AS LITTLE AS £65.00! Think Tank?, Newcastle. £7.70 Adv. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £15.40 Adv. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Daddy Long Legs. Sage, Gateshead. • Sonic Boom Six. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Syd Arthur. £12.00 Adv. Monday 27th November The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. CONTACT LEE AT The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • The Selecter/The Beat feat. • Get Hip. £8.00 Adv/ £10.00 OTD. £8.00 Adv/ £10.00 OTD. Ranking Roger. Musiclounge, Stockton. • The Electric Boys. [email protected] • Echobelly. • Bad Sounds + KYKO. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • The Jack Dash. The Cluny, Newcastle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. £16.90 Adv. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £7.70 Adv. £28.65 Adv. Toft House, Middlesbrough.

54 55