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WE’RE THE DECLINE OF MUSIC VENUES! LISTENING! WE REVIEW MADNESS AT METRO RADIO ARENA!

ISSUE #41 FEBRUARY 2019 NEWCASTLE PUPPETRY FESTIVAL! LEONARDO DA VINCI IN SUNDERLAND!

FOLLOW NE VOLUME ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: A FESTIVAL, A PARADE! WE REVIEW OCTOPUS8’S LATEST RELEASE! ON SOCIAL MEDIA SLEAFORD MODS AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL! WE SPEAK WITH DEATH VALLEY GIRLS!

PICK UP OUR FREE NORTH EAST MUSIC/CULTURE MAGAZINE! TO NE VOLUME MAGAZINE WELCOME ISSUE #41! Thank you so much for picking up NE Volume magazine - the magazine produced by local music CONTENTS and culture fans, for local music and culture fans. It’s time to get NEWS over those January blues because gig season PG.7 Du Blonde at The Cluny! is back – and with a vengeance. What’s more, PG.8 The Godfathers at Westgarth! this year we’re hoping to start our own podcast CULTURE so keep your eyes peeled; the podcast will focus on local bands and we’ll also discuss what’s coming up that week/month. PG.12 Newcastle Puppetry Festival! Anyhow, so here’s what to look out for this month. In this edition, Rhiannon Banks chats with Frank Carter as he brings PG.19 Chiara Camoni’s ‘Sisters’ at MIMA! his Rattlesnakes to Newcastle; we provide you with our honest opinion of Madness at the Metro Radio Arena; we keep you up- SPOTLIGHTS to-date with what’s happening in the region this month including The Godfathers in Middlesbrough, Jason Manns in Stockton and PG.20 Artist Spotlight: A Festival, A Parade! Leif Erikson at Independent in Sunderland; in our culture section we preview Newcastle Puppetry Festival, and so much more. PG.21 Business Spotlight: The Vinyl Word! Just to remind you, if you’ll be running an event or bringing any new material out in February/March then please email our FEATURES team at [email protected] and we’ll do all we possibly can to include a review/news piece in our March edition which will be PG.22 Songwriting: Is It Okay to Get Help? released on Friday 1st March. And thank you for supporting the North East’s fantastic music and culture scenes – we wouldn’t PG.24 The Decline of Music Venues! be here without you. INTERVIEWS PG.38 Queen Zee! EDITOR’S PICK: PG.24 PG.39 White Lies! GIG REVIEWS PG.42 Terry & Gerry at Westgarth! PG.43 Mumford & Sons at Metro Radio Arena! ALBUM / EP / SINGLE REVIEWS PG.46 Octopus8’s New Album! PG.47 Fire Lady Luck’s New EP! PG. 9 - SLEAFORD MODS! FEBRUARY 2019 GIG LISTINGS PG.48-51

Lee Allcock - Editor, NE Volume. ISSUE #42 OUT ON FRIDAY 1ST MARCH

Venue box office opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm-4pm (Thurs 12pm-6pm) • Ticket Prices Subject to Booking Fees ticketweb.co.uk • seetickets.com • gigantic.com • ticketmaster.co.uk All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers. The opinions expressed in NE Volume belong to the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of NE Volume or its staff. NE Volume welcomes ideas and contrbutions but can assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. NE Volume holds no responsiblilty to incorrect content supplied in adverts. GIG PREVIEW 1 GIG PREVIEW YOU CAN USE NE VOLUME TO PROMOTE YOUR OWN BUSINESS OR GIG!

Promote your events, band and your local business to more than 25,000 music and culture fans in the North East with our help! INDIGO VELVET NE Volume is a North East magazine delivered FREE to a range AT SURF CAFÉ, TYNEMOUTH of communities in the North East - covering Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington, Redcar, Newcastle, Sunderland, Vibrant indie-pop band Indigo Velvet head to the Surf Café in and many more. Tynemouth on Saturday 16th February in what’s set to be an energetic and spirited headline show. 2018 was a whirlwind year We produce adverts covering various sizes. If you would like an for the band as they secured support slots alongside the likes NE Volume advertising pack sent out via email or post, please of Lewis Capaldi and Marsicans and dropped their latest single use the contact details below. ‘Nineteen’ in December which was received with relish by their fans - and 2019 shows no signs of the outfit slowing down. The Our trained Journalists can write your copy while our dedicated four-piece from Edinburgh are currently basking in praise from Graphic Designer can help to put your adverts together. So music publications across the UK following their sought-after gigs around the country as well their performance on a BBC whatever your requirements are, we are here to help! Introducing session. Support on the night comes from Mayfare, DR JOHN COOPER CLARKE an upbeat indie quartet from Newcastle, and another local band in The Pasolas, a ballsy, ballad-blasting, alternative foursome AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL inspired by Radiohead and The Beatles. RACHEL BYROM

Tickets: £6.00 Advance | Visit: eventbrite.co.uk Renowned punk-poet Dr John Cooper Clarke is set to play the renovated Middlesbrough Town Hall as part of an extension of his latest tour. The ‘original people’s poet’ recently launched FOR REGULAR UPDATES FOLLOW NE VOLUME ON SOCIAL his first collection in 30 years entitled ‘The Luckiest Guy Alive’ which will be at the heart of the evening. He will be joined by GIG PREVIEW various special guests across the tour (still to be announced MEDIA OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE: NEVOLUME.CO.UK in Middlesbrough at time of writing) whilst he discusses his writing process, performs his latest poems and will no doubt delight the audience with classic poems such as ‘Beasley Street’ and ‘Evidently Chicken Town’. There is a chance, a small chance albeit, that some readers haven’t heard of Dr John Cooper Clarke and if you’re one of them, imagine Keith Richards if he decided to dedicate himself to poetry. However, after a few moments of listening to him, as an audience, you’re left feeling NE VOLUME TEAM CONTACT that Cooper Clarke may well have seen more whisky nights and rock ‘n’ roll than all of the Stones combined and turned them Email: [email protected] into verse with a twist of dry and dark wit. During his readings, Editor : Lee Allcock he describes the problems and quirks of Britain with eerie Listings: Emily Hook Phone: 01642 237348 familiarity and irreverent love. Add to this the social conscience Website: nevolume.co.uk of punk and a complete disregard for impressing the literary or Creative: Tom Brown cultural powers that be, and somehow Middlesbrough has the Writers: Rachel Byrom, Katherine Shanks, Stephanie JOHN ADAMS good fortune to host this legendary, sharp and wise raconteur. Thompson, Rosie Murphy, Charlie Richardson, Sam Dobinson, Whilst captivating celebrity fans such as Steve Coogan, Peter Wayne Madden, Tobias Halford, William Brown, Samantha Hall, AT ARC, STOCKTON Hook and Paul McCartney, John Cooper Clarke passionately Stephen Jude, Rhiannon Banks, Damian Robinson, Kyrie Morris. remains a man of the people and his work is a tribute to the ordinary, humorous and indeed sometimes miserable reality We could be about to see some big things from Welsh-born of life in modern Britain. He delivers gritty messages about singer John Adams as he dives straight into the New Year with urban life that have stood the test of time and are even more a seven-week-long tour around the UK. Taking to the stage at relevant today than when Cooper Clarke emerged during the ARC in Stockton as part of his ’No White Lies’ tour, attendees are explosion of punk in the 1970s. Songs, stories and verse will NE VOLUME sure to be treated to some open, heartfelt lyrics and mesmerising form a unique set stripped back by a performer who enjoys storytelling. His music career began busking on the streets, but nothing more than sharing experiences with his audience. IS A PROUD passion and powerful vocal ability have brought him to where Poetry is a vastly underperformed medium at local venues, and Magazine designed by Printed by JAK HQ Limited he is now – an artist in his own right with a wealth of musical this performer is one of the masters. Dr John Cooper Clarke Tom Brown Graphic Design. www.jakinc.uk SUPPORTER OF achievements under his belt. His popular songs include ‘See You heads to Middlesbrough Town Hall on Thursday 21st February. Again’ and ‘Dandelion Wishes’, however, John has already teased STEPHANIE THOMPSON Contact Unit 4 Station Road, ‘MvC Live Sessions and signed memorabilia auctions fund state a new EP for 2019 - and there is no doubt he will showcase email: [email protected] Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY. of the art cancer equipment and intiatives into the NHS and vital some of this new material. John Adams plays ARC, Stockton on website: tbgraphics.co.uk [email protected] awareness campaigns’ www.musicvcancer.com Wednesday 20th February. KATHERINE SHANKS Tickets: £22.50 (+ Booking Fee) Tickets: £10.00 Advance | Visit: arconline.co.uk Visit: middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk

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SAM LEWIS PAUL WELLER + LUCAS RENNEY AT DALBY FOREST, NORTH YORKSHIRE AT INDEPENDENT, SUNDERLAND Paul Weller has just been announced as the first artist to take part in Forest Live 2019. The summer concert series, which heads Nashville born-Sam Lewis, who writes roots-based country music to forests across the UK including Dalby Forest, near Pickering, that moves the soul, makes his way to Sunderland on Friday 8th North Yorkshire, will welcome the iconic artist whose latest release February to play a highly-anticipated show at the Independent. ‘True Meanings’ entered the UK charts at No 2 (it is his fourteenth Lewis puts a great deal of emphasis on the soulful nature of his music solo album and the twenty-sixth studio album of his career). Paul as he lyrically comments on how ‘the world we know is in pain’ but Weller’s versatility and creative edge has connected with fans crafts beautiful, bluesy, upbeat melodies that soothe the mind, the across the generations, making him one of the most significant body, and of course, the soul. In a night that promises to be filled players of the British Music scene over the past four decades. A with human connection, love and hope, you can expect to hear cultural icon, his impact, relevance and popularity with the public, tracks from his latest album, ‘Loversity’, which was released in April fellow musicians and critics alike remains unabated in his milestone FLING 2018 after taking Lewis 18 months to write; ‘Loversity’ received 60th year. Please note: Money raised from ticket sales helps to great critical acclaim from Billboard and Rolling Stone. Support on look after the nation’s forests sustainably, for people to enjoy and DU BLONDE + BE QUIET, SHOUT LOUD! + THE SEAMONSTERS the evening is provided by Lucas Renney who is Sunderland band wildlife to thrive. LEE ALLCOCK The Golden Virgin’s ex-frontman. RACHEL BYROM Tickets: £48.50 (+ £5.35 Booking Fee) | Box Office: 03000 680 400 AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH AT THE CLUNY, NEWCASTLE Visit: forestryengland.uk/music Tickets: £12.00 Advance | Visit: independentsunderland.com. The Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough has a reputation Coinciding with the release of her album ‘Lung Bread for Daddy’, for hosting some great line-ups - and this one is set to be a real Du Blonde, AKA Beth Jeans Houghton, brings her brand of cracker. Yorkshire-based outfit Fling really know how to put on psychedelic punk-rock to The Cluny in Newcastle on Friday GIG PREVIEW a great show, regularly selling out venues in their hometown 22nd February in what will be a powerful homecoming for the GIG PREVIEW of Bradford. When Charles, Jack, Billy, Jake and Sam met they Newcastle-born singer/songwriter. This new album will be her immediately bonded over their love of Bowie and T-Rex and second as Du Blonde and her third in total after her debut under their music reflects the individuality and un-self-conscious the name Beth Jeans Houghton and The Hooves of Destiny. nature of these artists. Their sound is described by the band as The first album, ‘Yours Truly, Cellophane Nose’, garnered wide “wonky pop” and has a whole host of influences driving along critical acclaim and launched her career, sending her from the a psychedelic and groovy guitar-based sound that is difficult streets of Newcastle to the bright lights of LA and leading to to pigeon hole. I’m also sure that their online fan group, the collaborations with, amongst many others, the mighty Red Hot “Flingers” will be out in force on this night. Previous releases Chilli Peppers. A seasoned touring artist, she has performed from Fling have garnered airplay from 6Music, RadioX and Radio at some of the biggest festivals around including Bestival, The 1 and a whole host of praise and plaudits. Their debut album, Great Escape, Latitude and, of course, Glastonbury. And in ‘Fling or Die’, is released on Friday 22nd February, so there’s time 2012 she had the honour of performing alongside Paul Weller to give the new tunes a good listen before the gig. The lads seem on Later…With Jools Holland on the BBC. Her first album using poised on the edge of a real breakthrough and, hopefully, this the name Du Blonde was released back in 2015 and was again THE VRYLL SOCIETY album and subsequent shows will give them the recognition praised by critics. The release, entitled ‘Welcome Back to Milk’, they so richly deserve. Next on the bill is Be Quiet, Shout Loud! was produced by Jim Sclavunos whose work history includes AT THINK TANK?, NEWCASTLE There is a reason that this band play to packed venues and have performing with Sonic Youth, The Cramps and Nick Cave & The HIPPO CAMPUS a reputation that extends way beyond their North East roots. Bad Seeds. The talents of this girl seem to know no bounds as, Liverpool five-piece The Vryll Society embark on their UK tour this Described as “Disco Rock Mentalists”, Be Quiet, Shout Loud! alongside her music, she is also a renowned artist, working as AT RIVERSIDE, NEWCASTLE month and will be making a highly-anticipated return to one of raise the roof on any auditorium and their furiously energetic an animator, photographer, sculptor and film-maker; her skills their favourite Newcastle venues, Think Tank?. Over the past three stage shows regularly blow people’s minds. Finishing off the line- and reputation have led to music video work with LUMP and Hailing from Minnesota, USA, indie-rock four-piece Hippo Campus years, The Vryll Society have discovered and established their own up is Sheffield’s finest indie glitter girls, The Seamonsters. Heavily Ezra Furman too. Be under no illusion that this girl is a soft are a band in fine form. Currently touring their headline show on the sound whilst gaining rewarding experience during support sets for inspired by the sparkle and shine of 80’s synth sounds, combined touch though as often her music burns with anger and energy. back of ‘Bambi’, the band’s latest studio album, they make their way successful bands such as Blossoms and The Coral. Furthermore, with the edge of more modern indie bands like Pulp and The Her lyrics often come straight from the heart of her feelings: to Newcastle’s celebrated Riverside venue this month. Named as one they have played at prestigious festivals such as Glastonbury Wombats, Naomi, Holly, Tassie, Lauren, Ella and Ciara make up “You slay me with what you say and what you do / Don’t try of NPR Music’s favourite new artists of 2017, Hippo Campus have and SXSW as a result of BBC Introducing providing them with a one of the most exciting bands to come out of the Steel City in me, cos I’m not in the mood” - maybe that gives you an idea of earned a great deal of success in recent years, including playing a series platform to showcase their music. The Vryll Society, who released recent years. Their releases have made a real impact, especially the rollercoaster that is a Du Blonde performance. Expect some of acclaimed shows at SXSW which were immediately followed by their debut album in August last year, have a unique style, with in the music blogging community, and their engagement with exclusive performances at The Cluny as brand new material will their network television debut on ‘Conan’. In 2015, Reading and Leeds the cornerstone sound to their music being that of 80’s-inspired their audience through photoshoots, videos and social media be performed on stage, some of it for the very first time, so you Festival beckoned and shortly after the band released their critically psychedelic space-rock driven by undulating bass-lines, embedded has created a solid link between the band and their fans. are guaranteed a special and unique experience. Du Blonde acclaimed EP, ‘South’. Hippo Campus surely are an exciting prospect. grooves and unrelenting drum beats, enveloped by Michael Ellis’ Fling, Be Quiet. Shout Loud! and The Seamonsters head to plays The Cluny, Newcastle on Friday 22nd February. Be sure to catch them on their only North East performance this distinctive vocals. The Vryll Society play Think Tank?, Newcastle on Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough on Saturday 2nd March. CHARLIE RICHARDSON month. Hippo Campus play Riverside, Newcastle on Saturday 16th Friday 8th February. ROSIE MURPHY CHARLIE RICHARDSON February with doors opening at 19:00. SAM DOBINSON Tickets: £8.00 Advance | Visit: thecluny.com Tickets: £11.00 (Advance + Booking Fee) | Visit: seetickets.com Tickets: £8.50 (Advance + Booking Fee) | Visit: seetickets.com Tickets: £16.50 (+ Booking Fee) | Visit: ticketline.co.uk | Ages: 14+

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JASON MANNS & PAUL CARELLA EZIO AT THE GREEN ROOM, STOCKTON AT SAGE TWO, GATESHEAD

Stockton is set to play host to a night of real country soul as LA Cambridge folk duo, Ezio, are set to appear at the Sage Two singer/songwriter Jason Manns and Scottish Americana artist this month for a night of acoustic riffs, blues and jazz rhythm. Paul Carella will join forces to bring a Southern sound to intimate Over the course of their 28-year career, they have released micro-venue, The Green Room. Manns has seen huge success nine studio albums. But what is prominent in their more recent in recent years. With his acoustic flair and natural talent, it isn’t offerings is the sheer skill that they have developed throughout hard to see why his music has been featured in movies and shows their time together, seeming almost second nature to them now including ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘Supernatural’, to name a few. - and they’re also not afraid to experiment. In contrast to their Carella also enters this year on a high following the release of his higher tempo material, their latest album, ‘Daylight Moon’ was fifth studio album ‘Bootleg Vol. 2’ in November. Having previously released in 2016 and features melodies which have a deeper toured in Nashville, there’s no doubt he’ll provide a truly authentic meaning. Audience members should expect to be spellbound as night for Stockton’s country lovers. Each artist alone is extremely emotions run high in ‘Indian’ and ‘Dirty Little Secret’, as well as THE GODFATHERS talented but together they’ll become a powerhouse. Manns and being treated to older favourites such as ‘Angel Song’. Ezio will Carella will play The Green Room in Stockton on Friday 15th play at the Sage Two in Gateshead on Friday 22nd February. AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH February. KATHERINE SHANKS KATHERINE SHANKS Tickets: £15.00 | VIP Tickets: £35.00 There are not many bands that you could see live at The Visit: georgiantheatre.co.uk Tickets: £15.30 Advance | Visit: sagegateshead.com Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough that have the history and reputation of The Godfathers. In their first incarnation in the mid-1980s, established by brothers Peter and Chris Coyne, The Godfathers toured extensively in the UK, Europe and the USA - and it was in the states where they gained their GIG PREVIEW GIG PREVIEW biggest commercial success. Their 1988 single ‘Birth, School, Work, Death’ made it into the Billboard Top 40, back when these things really mattered in both status and bank balance. This achievement gave the band sell-out tours and massive popularity in the colleges and universities of America. Rather than being in the mainstream though, The Godfathers’ mob- inspired image and rock ‘n’ roll-style guitars set them apart from other bands of the era whose clean-cut sound and shiny production values put off many of the more punk-influenced listeners. After numerous tours, three albums with Epic Records and another two with German label Interchord, the band decided to hang up their sharp suits and take a break in 2000. Fast forward to 2008 and The Godfathers came back from the dead with a vengeance, releasing a remastered and JOHN CORABI SLEAFORD MODS vastly expanded version of their debut album ‘Hit by Hit’ and embarking on tours in Europe and the US - they even revived AT THE CLUNY, NEWCASTLE AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL their infamous Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre shows to massive fanfare and the enjoyment of fans old and new. The band truly now have classic status as influencers, with many John Corabi first rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of Nottingham’s unlikely heroes, Sleaford Mods, head to Middlesbrough new punk and rock bands covering seminal classics like ‘This Motley Crue. Hired to replace Vince Neil in 1992, his stay with Town Hall this month to speak some home truths, with their proud Damn Nation’, and they were even cited by Mars Volta asa the band produced the much debated self-titled record of 1994. working-class poetry combined with electronic punk minimalism. heavy influence on their album, ‘Noctournique’. Most recently Projects such as Union and Brides of Destruction followed until Something to be held in high respect is when you can identify what the band released their album, ‘A Big Bad Beautiful Noise’ in Corabi found his home in The Dead Daisies, a supergroup of part of the country a British band is from; with Williamson’s voice 2017 to critical acclaim and have since been a regular fixture musicians who previously performed with groups like Thin so unapologetic and showing pride in his birthplace. The electronic on the gig and festival circuit across Europe. This event brings a Lizzy, Whitesnake, Megadeth and Guns N’ Roses, to name but punk outfit will be promoting their new album scheduled tobe unique opportunity to catch this band without having to travel several. As a vocalist, Corabi has an extensive range, making brought out on 22nd February 2019; the album will be the duo’s fifth halfway across the globe and not only relive the glory days this one vocal performance you won’t want to miss. As a studio effort and is the first to be released on newly formed label, but celebrate the continued success of this unique act. The guitarist, his skill is unprecedented in terms of creating a harder Extreme Eating. What is refreshing to see is that Sleaford Mods still Godfathers play at the Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough rocking sound. Ensured to help you recover from the January keep their live shows simplistic and true to what they are saying and on Friday 8th Feb. CHARLIE RICHARDSON blues in style, John Corabi heads to The Cluny in Newcastle on who they are: there are no smoke machines, stage props or eccentric Monday 4th February, with the intimate nature of the venue showmanship, just their raw, unapologetic talent. Sleaford Mods providing gig-goers with a fantastic opportunity to appreciate head to Middlesbrough Town Hall on Friday 9th March. Tickets: £13.75 (Advance + Booking Fee) this stadium singer in close proximity. WAYNE MADDEN TOBIAS HALFORD Visit: seetickets.com. Tickets: £12.50 Advance | Visit: thecluny.com Tickets: £20.00 + Booking Fee | Visit: middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk

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GRINGO STAR CHART! AT THE CLUNY, NEWCASTLE LEIF ERIKSON FEBRUARY 2019 AT INDEPENDENT, SUNDERLAND Chosen monthly by the NE Volume team. Gringo Star, the Atlanta quartet who have been gigging relentlessly across America, will venture into the European leg of their tour throughout February – and they’ll be heading to Named after a little known Icelandic Explorer, Leif Erikson is a Newcastle to play the intimate The Cluny on Friday 15th. The band from London paving the way for the future of soft indie- American four-piece will be bringing with them a patchwork rock. This month, the five-piece head to Sunderland to play a setlist infused by 60’s psychedelic grooves and garage-rock set of their emotive and socially-conscious tracks. Sure to be ARTIST TITLE mellowed by western tones nodding to illustrious predecessors heard on the night is their latest single, ‘Matter’: a song that is such as Buddy Holly, The Kinks and The Beach Boys. The band’s heavily atmospheric and saturated with beautiful bluesy guitar 1 A FESTIVAL, A PARADE COLD SHOWER discography is made up of five albums and among those is their and only a glimpse into what is expected from their new EP new release, ‘Back to the City’, which was released in August. due for release in early 2019. This gig is an absolute must- PLUMHALL Gringo Star emits an insouciant manner whilst performing see for fans of Kurt Vile, The War On Drugs and Island. Catch 2 DU BLONDE ANGEL + HEATHER STORY AT TOFT HOUSE, their softer sounding music; however, their upbeat songs are Leif Erikson before they set sail on tour as support for Island guaranteed to inject the crowd with energy. The band will head later this year. Leif Erikson are set to play the Independent in 3 QUEEN OF THE OXYGEN THIEVES MIDDLESBROUGH to The Cluny, Newcastle on Friday 15th February. Sunderland on Saturday 23rd February. RACHEL BYROM GHOST // SIGNALS ROSIE MURPHY Tickets: £7.00 Advance | Visit: independentsunderland.com 4 SWEARS SUBLIMINAL Plumhall could almost be considered to be music royalty with their Tickets: £10.00 Advance | Visit: thecluny.com Ages: 18+ impressive history. The duo, comprising of Michelle Plum and Nick B Hall, have a background stretching way beyond the six years 5 JULIE GRANT MARRY YOURSELF they have been writing and performing together. Michelle Plum had great successes with her previous stints in Chumbawamba, Waking The Witch and The Accidental Tourists and has also GIG PREVIEW GIG PREVIEW 1 6 OCTOPUS8 LEAP OF FAITH performed solo, in a support capacity, with such music giants as Texas and Shane MacGowan. Nick B Hall has performed for most of his adult life with the legendary Hall Brothers Band and 7 AQUA VELVAS DOOMSDAY BELL through this outlet has shared billing with Fairport Convention and iconic lead vocalist with The Stranglers, Hugh Cornwell. His session guitar work has seen him take up the mantle for various 8 SAPIEN TRACE BITE THE BULLET bands throughout the world and he most notably performed with Magna Carta on their South Africa tour in 2010. Demonstrating 9 more than guitar strings in his bow, Nick portrayed a musician for SLEEPTAPE NADIR a few episodes of Coronation Street in 2015 too. Since their debut album ‘Thundercloud’ in 2014, the duo has been demonstrating STEVE HARLEY 10 CHARLEA B BREATHE their skill and experience at many shows. Their guitar-based harmonic tunes deliver a taste of rock and indie, soul and blues - and their shows are often packed with punters who know too ACOUSTIC TRIO STEVE FORBERT 11 SICK ROBOT CHOOSE A COLOUR well that they are going to get a great display of guitar prowess AT GOSFORTH CIVIC THEATRE, NEWCASTLE and melodies. 2019 sees Plumhall’s music go from the stage to AT ARC, STOCKTON the big screen as they are set to be featured in the forthcoming 12 THE INTERVALS FREAKY FINGERS Steve Forbert has an impressive history and continues to British indie film, ‘The Runaways’, starring Mark Addy and Tara Founding member of Cockney Rebel, a musical all-rounder and contribute to the music scene. His first major hit was back in Fitzgerald (not to be confused with the 2010 film of the same described by Rod Stewart as “One of the finest lyricists Britain has 1979, his songs have been performed by Keith Urban, Rosanne 13 name that followed the early career of Joan Jett). This movie is FIRES OF FREYA MUDDY WATERS ever produced”; Steve Harley performs at ARC in Stockton this Cash and Marty Stuart, and he has currently released an an adventure film that uses the northern British landscape as a month as part of his acoustic trio. Joined on stage by Barry Wickens impressive 18 studio albums. Throughout his life, he has had backdrop to a heart-warming tale of sibling bonding - and I’m sure (violin and guitar) and James Lascelles (piano and percussion), Steve his share of trials and triumphs. However, through a course of 14 BRUTO SLOW DANCE the music of Yorkshire-based Plumhall will add a great dimension will be performing some great songs from a career that spans over a marriage, divorce, raising three children and fronting an ever- and authenticity. Supporting Plumhall is the very well-respected 45 years. Having released 13 albums and some huge hits such as changing line-up of supporting musicians, Steve has kept true singer/songwriter Heather Story who uses her experiences of ‘Mr Soft’ and the absolutely unforgettable ‘Make Me Smile (Come to his roots and the folk ethos. Steve is still able to mesmerise 15 CHARLOTTE GRAYSON MESMERISE growing up in the North East to craft gritty and melodic tunes. Up and See Me)’, this performance will include both rehearsed songs a crowd with his distinctive voice, acoustic guitar and his She has recently supported huge acts such as James Bay and The and unique improvised pieces guaranteed to get foots tapping trusty harmonica proudly slung around his neck - he lets the Human League, so this is a good chance to catch her before she and certain to both bring back and create new musical memories. purity of his music speak for itself. He has a deep respect for is whisked away to fame and fortune. Plumhall and Heather Story Having performed at Glastonbury three times, Steve and his fellow his fans too and is regularly asked by other musicians how he perform at Toft House in Middlesbrough on Saturday 2nd March. performers bring a level of experience and knowledge to the stage knows so many of his fans’ names. Steve Forbert heads to LISTEN TO THE NE VOLUME ‘NORTH EAST CHARLIE RICHARDSON that’s rarely encountered. Steve Harley Acoustic Trio perform at ARC Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle on Thursday 7th February. in Stockton on Thursday 21st February. CHARLIE RICHARDSON TOBIAS HALFORD Tickets: £8.00 Advance BANDS’ PLAYLIST ON SPOTIFY NOW. Contact: Leigh Sayers at [email protected] Tickets: Dynamic Pricing | Visit: arconline.co.uk Tickets: £15.00 + Booking Fee | Visit: gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk

10 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ NEWS 1. John Boydston 1. Jay Blakesberg NEWS // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 11 CULTURE SPOTLIGHT CULTURE SPOTLIGHT FEB 2019 FEB 2019 NEWCASTLE LEONARDO PUPPETRY DA VINCI FESTIVAL A LIFE IN DRAWING AT SUNDERLAND

Following a sell-out debut in 2017, MUSEUM AND WINTER GARDENS Moving Parts: Newcastle Puppetry Festival is back with a bigger, stronger and more diverse programme for 2019. The Tickets are now on sale for what is one of the debut event won a Journal Culture Award most eagerly-anticipated exhibitions ever to be for ‘Best Newcomer’ and provided a platform held at Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens – for puppeteers and artists, both renowned and Leonardo da Vinci: A Life in Drawing. The exhibition, little known, to present the magic and wonder of this featuring 12 drawings from the Italian master, is part of unique art form to North East audiences. Encompassing a national tour to mark the 500th anniversary of his death. contemporary puppetry and the wider related genres of stop Sunderland is one of 12 UK venues chosen by Royal Collection motion and visual theatre, 2019 promises to provide a broad range of Trust to simultaneously host the exhibition, which will feature a total of events, performances and activities for both adults and families. Spread 144 of Leonardo’s drawings. The exhibition will run from February 1st to over nine days and located across seven venues in Newcastle city centre, May 6th. Keith Merrin, Chief Executive of Sunderland Culture who deliver the much anticipated event boasts 18 ticketed performances,as well as allowing members of the public to get involved through masterclasses, the programme at the museum on behalf of Sunderland City Council, talks and networking events.There is also a real focus here to get the said: “This is an exciting opportunity to see the extraordinary drawings kids involved, as there are specific shows and workshops tailored for of perhaps the world’s most famous artist. The 12 drawings selected children and families to inspire the next generation of puppeteers. The for Sunderland reflect a range of Leonardo’s interests: architecture, event starts on Saturday 6th April with a programme of outdoor theatre music, anatomy, engineering, cartography, geology and botany.” on Northumberland Street, using large scale puppets to wow the crowds A range of artistic projects and programmes, organised by Sunderland in the heart of the city. This spectacular opening will give local culture Museum and Winter Gardens, will complement the exhibition. Jo lovers an opportunity to see the puppets up-close, interact and meet the Cunningham, Exhibitions, Collections and Archive Manager at incredibly talented team behind the event. The opening event will Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, explained: “We’re include two 4-metre-high figures, Pablo and Atharina from using the drawings and the high-profile exhibition as a The Netherlands, who perform on a giant 2-metre ball. catalyst to inspire and educate through a programme Joining them will be Dolly the Giraffe, a life-sized animal of projects and activities for people of all ages.” sure to turn heads on the streets of Newcastle, and This is an exciting There will be a family programme which includes two giant magpies complete with ramshackle nests. Newcastle Puppetry a Leonardo-themed week running throughout The following weekend, on Saturday 13th April, opportunity to see February half-term (February 18 – 22); Leonardo sees a whole day of activities designed for children Festival is back with the extraordinary trails around the Museum and a takeover by and centred in the Ouseburn Valley area just the Dominic Wilcox Little Inventors project outside the city centre. The Cluny 2, Seven Stories a bigger, stronger and drawings of perhaps during the Easter holidays. There will also be and The Ouseburn Farm will host numerous events more diverse programme monthly exhibition sessions for families with both free and ticketed throughout the day. And the world’s most for 2019 children who have additional learning needs or there’s more. Throughout the week, there will be famous artist performances and film screenings at The Alphabetti learning disabilities. An adult learning programme Theatre and Dance City in Newcastle for adults, will include: a free talk by Martin Clayton, Head including award winning international debuts from Merlin of Prints and Drawings at Royal Collection Trust on Puppet Theatre (Germany) and Hop Signor Puppet Theatre Wednesday 27th February at University of Sunderland’s (Greece), as well as collaborations between various artists from Murray Library Theatre (6.30pm – 8.30pm) and then a some of the events. One real highlight of the week, in my opinion, is guided tour of the exhibition by Martin the following day (11am); the screening of the Charlie Kaufman and Duke Johnson-directed a botanical illustration workshop at the Museum on Saturday 27th April movie, ‘Anomalisa’. This feature-length, stop-motion film is a darkly and life drawing classes exploring nude, drapery and theatrical costume comic tale that follows one man’s journey into a surreal and Kafkaesque on Sundays, March 3, 10, 17 and 24 (12.45 – 4.45pm). nightmare. You can catch the screening on Wednesday 10th April at the Alphabetti Theatre at 9.30pm.CHARLIE RICHARDSON Tickets: £2.50 | Under 16s: Free | Visit: sunderlandmuseum.org.uk. Social Media: Follow Hashtags - #sunderlandleo and #leonardo500. Visit: newcastlepuppetryfestival.co.uk.

12 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ CULTURE SPOTLIGHT 1. Join the Parade by 2. Noones Land by 3. Seaside Terror CULTURE SPOTLIGHT // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 13 Compagnie with Balls Merlin Puppet Theatre by Odd Doll COMEDY STAGE

PETE FIRMAN REBUS: LONG SHADOWS AT THE WITHAM, BARNARD CASTLE AT THEATRE ROYAL, NEWCASTLE

Middlesbrough-born comedian/ you can expect to witness Quite rightly, Detective John the hugely successful TV series. NEW magician Pete Firman is his unique punchy delivery Rebus is certainly up there Supporting Ron is another Game bringing his hilarious show, and flawless sleight of hand with legendary fictional sleuths of Thrones veteran in John Stahl EXHIBITIONS ‘Marvels’, to the region this that continues to entertain Sherlock Holmes and Harry who plays Big Ger Cafferty, month as he performs at The and astonish his audiences; Bosch as an icon of crime fiction Rebus’ nemesis and Edinburgh Witham in Barnard Castle on Firman’s exuberant personality all over the world. In twenty- crime kingpin. Add to this BAFTA OPEN FROM Friday 8th February in what’s is highlighted by his spirited two novels since his debut in and Golden Globe nominated set to be an exciting night sense of humour and a 1987, Ian Rankin’s hard-drinking, actress Cathy Tyson and you out consisting of incredible manifested fake arrogance. tough guy detective has topped have one illustrious cast. ‘Long SATURDAY magic tricks accompanied by Firman toured with ‘Marvels’ best-seller lists and has been Shadows’ follows the story of unfaltering wit. Dubbed by around the UK in 2018, adapted for TV and radio. a now-retired Rebus who is 23 FEBRUARY TimeOut as ‘the UK’s leading including performing at the Portrayed on BBC1 by Ken Stott, brought into a new case when comedy magician’, Firman is Edinburgh Fringe Festival, this Edinburgh investigator is the daughter of a murder victim no stranger to television, first yet extra dates have been a character most people know turns up on his doorstep.Rebus: 2019 gracing the screens in ‘Monkey added this year due to popular well. Now, for the very first Long Shadows runs from Monday Magic’ in 2003 and he has demand. So make sure you see time, DCI John Rebus has been 25th February to Saturday 2nd Visit mima.art for information on recently appeared on ‘Tonight what the fuss is about - don’t brought to the stage through the March at The Theatre Royal in at the London Palladium’, ‘The miss this spectacular live show pen of playwright, Rona Munroe. Newcastle.Please note: Expect exhibitions, activities and events. @mimauseful Next Great Magician’, ‘The from Pete Firman on Friday 8th Notably, this production features strong language and dark themes Magicians’ and ‘The John February. Ron Donachie as Rebus; the as Rebus navigates this new Bishop Show’. His new show, RACHEL BYROM audience may be familiar with his mystery, often shadowed by his therefore, is a fantastic way to voice in the role, as he has already murky past. see his jaw-dropping illusions Tickets: £16.00 Advance played the part in all of the BBC CHARLIE RICHARDSON live, fully aware that he is not Visit: thewitham.org.uk radio productions of Ian Rankin’s assisted by TV camera trickery. Call: 01833 631 107 novels and Game of Thrones fans Tickets: Starting at £16.00 Although Firman’s magic is Ages: 14+ may also recognise him from his Visit: theatreroyal.co.uk not necessarily contemporary, portrayal of Ser Rodrik Cassel in

EVENT ESCAPE ROOMS AT LUMLEY CASTLE, CHESTER-LE-STREET

Work is well underway on a new and Castle’s sales manager, Lauren Colledge, exciting visitor attraction at one of the said it is a major development for the North East’s most historic properties – and hotel and for the region: “Lumley Castle’s it’s set to open this month. Over the course charm is that its history – from its medieval of its 630-year history Lumley Castle, at construction to some of the finest Georgian Chester-le-Street, has played host to kings, plasterwork in existence - is evident at every princes, princesses and countless visitors turn.” She added: “The ancient cellars are to the World Heritage Site of Durham the perfect setting for a game which sets City – and now it’s preparing to welcome visitors the task of unlocking the secret of a would-be detectives keen to take part in tragic heroine and we are confident the new a thrilling game to reveal the tragic story escape room will be an asset to the hotel of Lumley Castle’s most famous ghost. and to the wider region.” The escape room Legend has it that, in the 14th century, experience will be open to residents and Lady Lily of Lumley was cast down a well non-residents alike with the option to add by Catholic priests for renouncing her faith an overnight stay, afternoon tea package, or and her ghost has frequently been sighted dinner in the hotel’s highly acclaimed Black by visitors to the castle. Scheduled to launch Knight restaurant at the time of booking. on Thursday 14th February, the hotel has LEE ALLCOCK teamed up with highly acclaimed Escape Rooms Durham to create a new escape Visit: escapedurham.co.uk room challenge, based on Lily’s story.Lumley

14 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ CULTURE FILM EVENT COMEDY YOUNG PICASSO AT GALA THEATRE, DURHAM

A screening of the story of one of the most major cities throughout the documentary influential artists of the 20th Century will including Malaga, Barcelona and Paris take place at Gala Theatre in Durham on because situated in each city is a Picasso Tuesday 5th February. The film, titled museum. During the screening, you will ‘Young Picasso’, documents the early life follow the life of a Young Picasso whilst of Pablo Picasso and how his work created being given privileged access to his the impact that it has had on the world. masterpieces such as the Les Demoiselles This film has been produced and directed d’Avignon which was painted in 1907 by Phil Grabsky, a British award-winning when Picasso was 25 years old. The ANDREW LAWRENCE documentary film-maker who has been documentary will also introduce you to key making documentaries for thirty years. periods in Picasso’s life such as the blue ‘Young Picasso’ is part of his ‘Exhibition period during 1901-1904 and the rose ALE & ARTY 2019 + MICK FERRY + PETER BRUSH on Screen’ project which gives viewers an period during 1904-1906 documenting AT ARC, STOCKTON AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL insight into the lives of artists displayed his prolific life up until his death in 1973. by the world’s leading historians and art ROSIE MURPHY critics. Since the launch of this project A popular beer festival for Friday night promises to be a Starring Andrew Lawrence, debut at the Edinburgh Comedy in 2011, sixteen films have been shown Tickets: £10.00 lovers of both art and ale sell-out with an ‘Ale & Arty’ Mick Ferry and Peter Brush, Festival back in 2009. On TV, in over fifty countries. This film provides Concessions: £8.00 is returning to its home in special edition of Catch 22 Middlesbrough Town Hall’s ‘Big Mick has starred in Michael viewers with a unique experience as you Gala Members: £7.00 Stockton later this month. Comedy Club with Chortle Mouth Comedy Club’ certainly McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow will be transported to three different Visit: galadurham.co.uk ‘Ale & Arty’ is an annual event Award-winning headliner has a cracking lineup for their as well as Comedy Blue and hosted by the Cleveland Simon Lomas, Seymour Mace, first show of the year. Andrew The Comedy Store on Comedy branch of CAMRA at ARC, Phil Nichol and MC Dave Lawrence has been one of Central. Also joining Mick and Stockton. From Thursday Longley. On the final night of Britain’s most subversive and Andy is Peter Brush. A highly- 28th February to Saturday the festival, The Wild Rover intelligent comedians since 2003. distinctive performer and skilful DANCE COMEDY 2nd March, ‘Ale & ‘Arty’ will and the Haverton Hillbillies Collecting plenty of awards and writer of finely crafted jokes, be providing guests with an will be providing a wonderful nominations over the years, Peter unassumingly takes the extensive variety of real ales, musical tribute to The Clash, Andrew won the BBC New stage with a slight bespectacled lagers, ciders and perries to Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan Comedy Award back in 2004 and frame and scruffy hair before try and test (in a special ‘Ale and Johnny Cash to name a few has also appeared on TV’s Live At conquering it with his quirky & Arty’ glass if you’d like, - with promises to reflect ‘The The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s one-liners and original routines, too). There are three nights Good, The Bad and The Ugly’ Comedy Roadshow and Dave’s all delivered in an amusingly of stellar entertainment on of Teesside simultaneously. One Night Stand as a regular on awkward fashion. The show offer each night at the festival: RACHEL BYROM Stand Up For The Week. Joining takes place at 20:30 on Saturday ‘Beatlemania’, one of the most Andrew is Mick Ferry. Renowned 2nd February at Middlesbrough authentic productions of live Tickets available from: as a fine purveyor of lugubrious Town Hall. SAMANTHA HALL Beatles music, takes centre arconline.co.uk surrealism, Mick has quickly stage on the first night where Box Office: 01642 525 199 established himself as one of Visit: you can expect to relive all the most sought-after comics middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk 17 No.1 Beatles hits with on the British and international Tickets: £13.00 + Booking Fee SHUT DOWN STEPHEN BAILEY incredible attention to detail. comedy circuit since making his Ages: 18+ AT DANCE CITY, NEWCASTLE AT THE STAND, NEWCASTLE

Shut Down, developed by to thrill fans of dance and may It’s been a notably successful personal level while bringing acclaimed dance director even encourage audiences year for super-sharp comic, hilarity and fun to the process. STAGE Charlotte Vincent with her to ask themselves: what, Stephen Bailey. Not only did In past shows, Bailey has told theatre company Vincent Dance actually, is a man? Taking place he embark on his first critically side-splitting stories of family WHERE THERE’S MUCK, THERE’S BRAS AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL Theatre, is a brilliant dance on Thursday 7th March, the acclaimed stand-up tour but his holidays, social media and the piece which explores what it show will also be preceded gossipy humour also brought trials and tribulations of single ‘Where There’s Muck, There’s Bras’ is Fox is joined on stage by actor Joey Holden means to be a man. Focusing on by a talk with the company him a recent progression into life – subjects we can all relate a comic, entertaining and informative who does an amazing job of bringing the contradictions, confusions that offers an in-depth look at television, having become to in some way. A long-time journey through the history of Northern some of the aforementioned to life.The and pressures that lie at the the work (booking separate the host of ‘Celebs on the fixture on the circuit, he knows women of note - many of whom you will be show was so popular during the Great heart of the male experience, from the main show) and an Farm’ as well as making a how to please a crowd, and his familiar with, but many that you wouldn’t. Exhibition of the North (where it debuted the piece encourages viewers approximately 15-minute-long number of appearances on open and fun humour is sure This show catalogues their achievements in June 2018) that both dates sold out to consider the struggles that discussion immediately after shows including ‘Celebrity Big to be a hit with the Newcastle and asks the question: were great women -and critics were won over by the show’s men experience in their daily the performance which the Brother’s Bit on the Side’ and audience. If you haven’t seen of the north remembered? Why not? thought-provoking and hilarious content. lives and does so with Vincent’s audience may stay and take ‘Live at the Comedy Store’. Stephen in action before, he’s Kate Fox certainly has been busy lately: As a work of entertainment, this show is trademark dry humour shining part in if they so wish to. The Now he returns up north to well worth seeing so make as a stand-up poet, she has been poet in highly recommended but it also could be through.In a first for Vincent, show starts at 19:30 and will last bring us his brand spanking sure you don’t miss out when residence at Glastonbury, The Great North viewed as a very interesting history lesson who is recognised as one of the for approximately 90 minutes. new show ‘Our Kid’ in which he heads to Newcastle this Run and on Radio 4’s Saturday Live and on how gender affects the history that most important feminist artists Please note that the show is he revisits his Manchester month. Stephen Bailey appears has performed alongside Dr John Cooper is remembered and the history that is so in contemporary dance, the only suitable for ages 14+ due roots, his younger days and at The Stand, Newcastle on Clarke and Hollie McNish. Covering a wide often forgotten. ‘Where There’s Muck, piece is her first work exclusively to strong language and adult the journey to becoming the Tuesday 12th February. range of talented individuals such as Helen There’s Bras’ is on for one night only at with male dancers, showcasing themes. WILLIAM BROWN person he is now. Coupled KATHERINE SHANKS Sharman, Britain’s first astronaut who was Middlesbrough Town Hall on Friday 15th that the struggles of the human with outrageous anecdotes in space a whole 25 years before the much- February. CHARLIE RICHARDSON condition are a universal issue. Tickets: £16.50 Advance and a pinch or two of risqué, Tickets: £14.00 Advance lauded Tim Peak; and Betty Boothroyd, With outstanding choreography Student and Under 18s: £8.00 this show will allow us to get Visit: thestand.co.uk the iconic and sharp-witted first female Tickets: £12.00 (+ Booking Fee) guaranteed, this show is certain Concessions: £13.00 to know Bailey on a more Doors Open: 7.00pm Speaker of the House of Commons, Kate Visit: middlesbrough townhall.co.uk

16 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ CULTURE CULTURE // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 17 COMEDY COMEDY STAGE COMEDY

JAMES MEEHAN JUSTIN MOORHOUSE GOOD DOG THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF POP AT THE HOLE IN THE WALL, DARLINGTON AT THE STAND, NEWCASTLE AT NORTHERN STAGE, NEWCASTLE AT THE EXCHANGE, NORTH SHIELDS Described by critics as a fine that the audience is introduced Are you still feeling the January show will find our loveable/ Multi award-winning stand-up James also picked up an award Justin Moorhouse has been and frequently makes guest balance between comedy to the many other (unseen) blues? Well, don’t worry shambolic ensemble attempt comedian and rising star of the nomination for Best Newcomer touring and entertaining for appearances on BBC 5 Live, and tragedy, ‘Good Dog’ is a characters in the story. The because Paul Richards and his to perform 55 songs in 90 British comedy scene, James for his multi-award-winning close to two decades and has with shows such as ‘7 Day compelling play that uses an play is directed by Natalie Ibu ‘choir’ will help you get back minutes with a whole host of Meehan is heading north to sketch group ‘Gein’s Family been a prominent figure on our Sunday’ and ‘Fighting Talk’. Justin incredibly simple format to tell whose career has won plaudits into the swing of things as they inevitable distractions...what the market town of Darlington Giftshop’ the same year. It’s television screens and radio sets has additionally written and a complex and emotionally- including The Dewar Arts make their way to The Exchange could possibly go wrong? If you this month as he brings his safe to say his performance ever since. Back on the road appeared in his very own sitcom, charged story of modern life in Award for Exceptional Artists in North Shields on Saturday love pop music, witty humour, highly acclaimed set to the in Darlington is one not to be and better than ever, Justin is ‘Everyone Quite Likes Justin’, the inner city. The play comes Under 30, Time Warner Ignite 9th February. Fresh from and enjoy hanging on to the Hole in the Wall for a night of missed. And with tickets quickly set to bring his hilarious new which aired on BBC Radio 4. His from the pen of Arinze Kene, 2, IdeasTap Innovator’s Award two consecutive years at the edge of your seat then this guaranteed hilarity. Described selling out, be sure to grab yours show, ‘Northern Joker’, to The weekly podcast entitled ‘About winner of the Most Promising and the Lilian Baylis Award for Edinburgh Fringe, join award- show is definitely for you. As as “refreshingly nonchalant” by whilst you can. James Meehan Stand Comedy Club in the heart 30 minutes, No more than 45’ Playwright Award at The Offies Theatrical Excellence. Bringing winning drumming comedian The Write Angle recently noted Time Out, James is no stranger entertains Darlington’s Hole of Newcastle later this month. has run since October 2013 in 2010 and considered to be a this vision together are the Paul Richards (“a puppy wired prior to the Edinburgh Fringe to critical praise and with over in the Wall on Monday 11th Perhaps known to many as and continues to feature fellow real rising star of British theatre. wonderfully bleak yet simple on own-brand energy drink, show: “This riotously funny 10 years of extensive touring February with doors opening ‘Little Kenny’ from Peter Kay’s comedians for weekly insights. Arinze’s acting career is also set designs by Amelia Jane you wouldn’t believe he ever show might just be the funniest to his name, he has generated at 19:30. This show will also hilarious series ‘Phoenix Nights’, Justin Moorhouse entertains proceeding apace, with major Hankin and the atmospheric sleeps” — The Swindonian) as hour you spend at this year’s an awful lot. Respected online feature support from several Justin’s acting career was only Newcastle’s Stand Comedy role credits in TV series such as lighting of Zoe Spurr. Good he struggles to control his very fringe. Everyone was in stitches review guide Broadway Baby new acts and established acts just beginning back in the turn Club on Sunday 17th February Eastenders, Hollyoaks, Our Girl Dog will be performed at Stage merry ‘choir’ of comedians in throughout.” LEE ALLCOCK went as far as to claim: “All of performing new material. of the millennium and he has with doors opening at 18:00. and Informer and soon to be 2 of The Northern Stage on their bid to tell you the entire what he has to say is genuinely SAM DOBINSON since made several film and Tickets are priced at £5.00 for starring alongside Anna Paquin Saturday 9th February. history of pop music in just Adult Tickets: £10.00 important and needs to be television appearances including the unwaged and proof must be and Sophie Okonedo in 2019 CHARLIE RICHARDSON 90 minutes – it’s going to be Concessions: £8.50 heard.” And Short Com also Tickets: £3.00 credits on ‘Coronation Street’ shown on ticket collection. American network TV show, difficult, but somebody has to Under 16’s, Students and commented on his: “Razor sharp Visit: hilaritybites.co.uk and Ken Loach’s 2009 British- SAM DOBINSON Flack. ‘Good Dog’ showcases Tickets: £10.00 do it (I’m just glad it isn’t me). Over 60s tickets available timing and cutting northern Call: 01325 466 720 French film, ‘Looking for Eric’. the acting skills of Anton Cross Visit: northernstage.co.uk Packed with special guests from the Box Office wit.” Winner of the Edinburgh Justin is a regular radio host and Tickets: £14.50 (+ Booking Fee) who has the daunting task of and surprises throughout the Call: 0191 258 4111. Comedy Award Panel Prize is often heard presenting shows Visit: thestand.co.uk carrying the whole play on his hour and a half production, Visit: attheexchange.info for ‘Funz&Gamez’ in 2014, on BBC Radio Manchester Call: 0191 300 9700 own; it is through his delivery this gloriously messy singalong

COMEDY ART 1 PHIL NICHOL + SEYMOUR RACE + SIMON LOMAS + MC CHIARA CAMONI’S ‘SISTERS’ AT MIMA, MIDDLESBROUGH DAVE TWENTYMAN AT MIDDLESBROUGH TOWN HALL Middlesbrough’s illustrious art gallery, with historic and contemporary traditions MIMA, will play host to a brand new of celebrating light at the darkest This March sees Middlesbrough Town Hall yet another brilliant comedian taking to the exhibition by Italian artist Chiara Camoni’s and coldest time of year. ‘Sisters’ are welcome ‘Big Mouth Comedy Club’ with a lineup stage. Crackling with childish energy and strange in what will be her first UK solo exhibition. positioned simultaneously as sculptures consisting of funnymen Phil Nichol, Seymour tangents, Seymour is a performer that’s worth the On display at the gallery until Sunday and as events. Their forms shift whilst Race, Simon Lomas and MC Dave Twentyman. admission price alone. Seymour was a regular in 10th February, MIMA has acquired three they are shown, marking the movement Dave Twentyman survived his childhood in Johnny Vegas’ sitcom ‘Ideal’ and was a former City large sculptures from Camoni’s most of time, through the accumulation St Helens by evolving rapid, startlingly-bright Life Comedian of the Year and Breakthrough Act recent series, ‘Sisters’, (iron, glazed clay, of wax. They play with questions of patter. Affable and quick-witted, Dave is a regular at the North West Comedy Awards. Also joining candles, fire, 2017) with support from function, sitting between statuettes and performer at many of the best weekend clubs in Seymour, Dave and Phil is Simon Lomas, a brilliant the first edition of the Contemporary Art candelabras. This approach resonates the country and has also performed at a number comedian who won the biggest cash prize in UK Society’s Jackson Tang Ceramic Award. with the practices and processes behind of music festivals over the years including Leeds comedy history at the Petfringe Comedian of the ‘Sister1’, ‘Sister3’ and ‘Sister4’ are glazed many of the Middlesbrough Collection’s Festival, V Fest, and Download. Joining Dave is year final back in July 2018. Phil Nichol, Seymour clay forms with multi-coloured candles ceramics and jewellery holdings which Phil Nichols. A truly unique performer, acclaimed Race, Simon Lomas and MC Dave Twentyman that are lit during the works’ display, with come from explorations of the politics of actor, award-winning comedian, producer, head to Middlesbrough Town Hall at 20:30 on the subsequent dripping wax forming materials, learning through making and in presenter, writer and musician – there is no end Saturday 2nd March. SAMANTHA HALL part of the piece. They will be shown for many cases a dynamic relationship with to his roaring talent. His energy and enthusiasm one month, during which time different the maker and user or wearer of the work. mixed with his unquenchable thirst to break Tickets: £10.50 (Early Bird Inc. Booking Fee) individuals and groups who represent LEE ALLCOCK boundaries and innovate his work makes him Visit: middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk MIMA’s constituents and communities a truly exciting performer - and his skills as an Ages: 18+ will light the candles in a daily event. This Visit: visitmima.com improviser are unparalleled. Seymour Mace is activation of the sculptures resonates

18 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ CULTURE 1. Arcade Gallery CULTURE // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 19 ARTIST SPOTLIGHT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT FEB 2019 FEB 2019 A FESTIVAL, THE VINYL A PARADE WORD NEWCASTLE STOCKTON-ON-TEES

I hadn’t known about A Festival, A Parade Based in the Fountain Shopping Mall in (AFAP) until a student on my course Stockton, The Vinyl Word has created a revealed himself to be the percussionist for haven for lovers of reading and anything the band a few years ago. After exchanging to do with music. Stockton has progressed information, I was introduced to a Newcastle over the years as a cultural centre of Teesside band deeply ingrained in distortion and alternative with a demand for the arts increasing significantly. sounds and one who have been championed by the That being said, The Vinyl Word is helping to keep North East ever since their formation in late 2015. that demand thriving in the area through their selling AFAP, in the short space of time they have been together, of pre-loved vinyl records, CDs, books and music-related have reached jubilant peaks. They have delivered constant sell-out memorabilia. Shop owner Stephen Thompson developed a love headline performances one after another in such remarkable venues for music with his first precious purchases at the age of ten which as The Cluny and The Mining Institute and have played as headlining consisted of Depeche Mode, Gary Clail and On-U Sound System. slots at prestigious local festivals including Evolution Emerging. He added: “My love for music has grown and deepened with In October 2018, AFAP released their sophomore EP entitled ‘Stay 1 my main obsessions being in electronic music and dance music. Away From Me.’ True to textbook definition, this EP contains five And one of my dreams has been to open up my own business tracks that are all wonderfully composed and executed with a stark where I can share my love for the arts”. Taking advantage of calling to this alternative rock band’s influences. Included in the Stockton Council’s Enterprise Arcade scheme which supports new EP is AFAP’s critically acclaimed single, ‘Cold Shower’ – a distorted independent retailers, he opened up The Vinyl Word in 2018 - and masterpiece that could easily be mistaken for a Mogwai track. his plans do not stop there, as he is hoping to grow his business in “We’re always trying to change our sound and do things order to occupy his own shop premises. Stephen added: “I’m differently,” proclaims George Rowan, the band’s also involved in a variety of musical projects. As a DJ percussionist. “We’ve shifted the sounds from our first too, I will be spinning the decks at various venues EP and moved straight into loud rock territory with across Teesside throughout this year. I’m also an our latest.” Speaking on the topic of 2018, George aspiring producer going by the name of Hall stated: “The highlight for us was our three-week North, focusing on house/techno music, and tour with Sam Fender. We had a blast playing One of my dreams Huntsman for some soothing down-tempo every night and hanging out with Sam and the We’re always trying to has been to open up electronica. I’m also preparing for a number guys.” As the door revolves and a new year of releases so keep an eye out for them as shuffles in, AFAP march in with their raucous, change our sound and do my own business some will be released on vinyl too.” Not cacophonous style to announce their first only is he a business owner that’s invested entry to 2019: a one-off performance at Sage things differently where I can share in the arts, but he’s passionate about the Gateshead – an energised production they my love for the arts music scene in the local area and has seen regard as being their biggest headline show to the positive movement over the last few date. George added: “We are very excited to play years. He noted: “Stockton is now a fantastic at the Sage. We have loads of new material to play location for live music. With the newly revamped and we will be supported by Team Picture, Plaza, and Georgian Theatre, ARC, The MusicLounge and Ku Okay Champ. This is going to be a very special show so don’t miss out!” In case you wondered why AFAP are called Bar, these venues all offer a unique and exciting mix of what they are: “It is taken from The National’s song ‘All The Wine’, live music every week. Also, with the prospect of the return but it also puts us at the top of any list in alphabetical order - a of the legendary Globe coming next year, things couldn’t be more definite plus.” A Festival, A Parade are a spectacle not to be missed exciting in my opinion.”The increase in live music venues feeds as they play at Gateshead’s The Sage on Saturday 9th February. the demand for more music shops and The Vinyl Word looks like STEPHEN JUDE a business that will be a refuge for all you music lovers for years to come. TOBIAS HALFORD Tickets: £8.70 Advance Visit: sagegateshead.com/event/a-festival-a-parade/ For more information: Facebook.com/thevinylwordstockton

20 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ ARTIST SPOTLIGHT 1. Johnny Haynes BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 21 IS IT OKAY TO GET HELP WRITING SONGS? Some artists would have you believe that becoming a songwriter is a gift bestowed upon you from the Gods and I plan to convince you that this is not true.

riting songs is hard work and sometimes a lot of three other writers. Although there are artists who rely on only one trial and error takes place.Some artists don’t receive writer on their albums such as Twenty One Pilots, Stereophonics popular recognition straight away and spend a few and Noel Gallagher, the issue with the music industry is that record albums refining and developing as writers: this was companies want instant results and if you are not making hit after Wtrue for Queen, David Bowie, The National and Snow Patrol, just hit, they want you gone. As a result, there is more pressure on artists to name a few. My point being, if Michael Jackson had to write and a way to relieve the pressure is to get help from other writers. between 110 -120 songs in his career then you’ve got to put in the Going back to the question: ‘Is It Okay to Get Help Writing Songs?’ effort if you want to write songs that will stand out and speak to I believe it is a matter of personal preference and there is no shame others - and sometimes that means getting some help writing songs. in receiving help. The king himself, Mr Elvis Presley, only co-wrote 4 One of the issues that I personally have with songwriters receiving songs in his career - this was no secret and credit was always given. help is when writing credit is not given, and when our perspective Getting help doesn’t necessarily mean working with co-writers, is purposely manipulated to believe that certain artists write all going to Brit school or songwriting camp, it may simply be by asking their own songs independently. There has been an influx of singer- others their opinion who share a similar love of music as yourself or songwriters who are dominating the charts over the past few years developing your writing capacities through studying and research. If such as Ed Sheeran, George Ezra and Taylor Swift. We are lead to you want radio play then doing your research is important as most believe that they receive no help when writing songs when in reality radio stations will have certain criteria you will need, such as song they work with an army of writers and producers regularly. Research length.Being a songwriter myself, there are people who I will trial conducted by Music Week magazine shows that an average of 4.53 my songs on, so learning to take advice can help you see things from writers are used to create a hit single. Hits such as ‘Uptown Funk’ a different perspective. Unfortunately, most writers want to hear started with 4 writers but eventually finished with an astounding that their song is amazing but not all your songs will be - and that’s 13 writers! Personally, there is nothing more disappointing to me alright. Going back to one of the first points I made is that when you discover one of your favourite artists has an army of co- writing is diligent work – it’s trial and error. So is it okay writers. My issue is not that they are receiving help but rather being to get help writing songs? Yes, as long as you misinformed and purposely being lead to believe they have done it give credit. TOBIAS HALFORD themselves. When artists tweet saying that ‘I’m proud of the songs I have written’, it sickens me because, in reality, it was them and

22 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ FEATURE Priscilla Du Preez FEATURE // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 23 why the music venue has declined. These issues, however, can valued at around 1.6 to the euro for almost the entire year. On a be argued as being only part of a larger picture. One point which smaller scale, a few extra pounds is a somewhat insignificant issue may be being overlooked is that, according to an analysis but for venues which work with larger sums of money or from the Institute of Public Policy Research North book a lot of artists, this adds up quite dramatically, in 2017, there is an estimated difference of with the lower value of the pound causing an £691m to arts funding between the North increase of hundreds, if not thousands, of of England and London; this has been pounds necessary to host gigs on a similar further hampered by cuts from the level to what was done in previous current government to arts funding years. This issue gets even worse if THE DECLINE OF in general over several years which the venue works with European has caused a further squeeze on artists on a regular basis: with the the arts. While Arts Minister pound having stayed under 1.2 Michael Ellis did launch a £20m There is an to the euro since July 2017, this fund last year, this is a small means that, in real terms, to book comfort when you consider that estimated difference of a European artist today it costs spending on cultural activities by over 40% as much as it would local authorities has fallen from £691m to arts funding have done in 2000 (and is still £3.25bn in 2009 to £2.17bn in about 20% as much as it would 2017 (a cut of around 33%), with between the North of have been in 2015). None of this MUSIC VENUES... 2017 itself having a further cut is necessarily a sign that music of £152m from what had been venues are in trouble on their own, provided the year before. Combine England and London however, the larger impact of these Why are they closing? that with the gap of £691m, and factors definitely can help to explain the implications this has on music why music venues have struggled to venues in the north turn positively stay in business. Is there a way to stop usic venues are a core part of a music lover’s life. From the issues facing venues are well documented: noise restrictions grim.Further escalating issues are that this problem? Yes: increase the value the humble pub that lets a cover band in once a week to making live music more difficult, an increase in business rates that the cost of living has gone up as a result of of the pound, give further arts funding to the huge stadium that brings in acts as huge as Coldplay, has caused costs to go up dramatically and property development the 2008 financial crisis and Brexit has further venues (especially outside of London) and Iron Maiden and Rihanna, these venues mean a lot to not soundproofing new houses being constructed. These issues negatively impacted the value of the pound. These work with property developers to ensure proper Mmusic fans and few bands can honestly claim that they would have have been documented in a report released in 2018 - which was two factors mean that, in real terms, music venues are soundproofing is part of housing. If you’d be interested in got anywhere without them. Yet music venues have suffered over conducted as part of a consensus of UK live music by the Live working with less money and with money that is worth less than it expressing your views, please email the NE Volume team at info@ the last few years. The core question, though, is why? Many of Music Exchange - and, indeed, these are core issues which explain was even as recently as 2015, let alone in 2000 where the pound was nevolume.co.uk. WILLIAM BROWN

24 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ FEATURE Seth Reese FEATURE // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 25 FRANK CARTER AND THE RATTLESNAKES “This album is like nothing we’ve ever done before”

Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes head those feelings and get it down into your desperately trying to find my way in to Think Tank?, Newcastle this month so music? the world as a father, co-parent and Rhiannon Banks caught up with Frank It’s never an easy process but that is why as a human being. I really hope out of to speak about their new album, mental we do it. I have the responsibility as a anything that this album gives people health and more. lyricist and an artist to essentially try power. and ask the questions that people are The new album is out soon which is scared to ask. I also have a responsibility In terms of the UK tour, what made you really exciting. What can the fans expect to find the words that people can’t; to decide to play small, intimate venues from ‘End of Suffering’? find strength where they can’t in order this time around? It’s hard for me to try and sum it up in to hopefully help them realise that there We thought it would be funny this year just a few words because it’s definitely is a huge power in this. As far as what if we were to play the smallest shows the most important album I have made the fans can expect, this album is like possible and stress our manager out. in my life – and it’s the most personal. nothing we’ve ever done before. When you release a new album all you In the past, I’ve sometimes tried to talk want to do is play those new songs but about society and war and the peril that I had gathered from your Instagram page the problem with doing that is that no surrounds us. And this time, I have tried that this new album would have a lot one knows them. So instead, what we my very best to describe the war that to do with mental health. And like you are going to do is play a couple of the we have amongst ourselves, in our own said, you’re giving a voice to people who new ones but we are using this as a way persons and the war against depression don’t feel like they have one… to really enjoy playing some of our old and mental health problems. It’s a very Life is not an easy ride and that’s songs for possibly the last time. intimate look at essentially a year and what this record is about. I have an a half/two years of my life and all the appearance and reputation for being Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes head things that have happened amongst such a fierce and strong guy who is to Think Tank?, Newcastle on Thursday that. fearless and scared of nothing but, in 21st February. Tickets, priced at £20.00, reality, it’s very, very different. I’m as are available from seetickets.com. It must have been hard for you to uproot insecure as the next person and I’m

26 // MAIN FEATURE // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE Daniel Harris MAIN FEATURE // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 27 DODGY “What struck me most was how much the music industry has changed”

25 years on from its release, Dodgy’s The industry has been turned on its the musicians for homelessness charity ‘Homegrown’ album remains a head… which is such a helpful charity for so centrepiece in the 90s indie catalogue. It has, and I do think that one of the many people struggling to make a living. Introspective and brimming with downsides has been that the quality of melodies, ‘Homegrown’ went on to be streamed music can be particularly poor. And finally, how have the preparations the bands’ breakthrough gold-selling The strongest memory of ‘Homegrown’ been going for the tour? moment, opening up the door for 1996’s was of us all living in North London in a We’ve started rehearsing and it’s quite platinum seller ‘Free Peace Sweet’. shared house, full of optimism about our a nice tour in terms of how the album Damian Robinson caught up with lead band and about making music. We used sticks together and how much of a band vocalist and co-songwriter Nigel Clark to go record shopping, and I worked in album it is, which helps. We’ll be playing to find out about the bands’ plans to a record shop for a while, so music was the full album and we’ll also be bringing tour ‘Homegrown’ and their work in my life. some B-sides out and some other hits supporting homelessness charities. too as well as having Babybird and Tony ‘Staying Out For the Summer’ was the from Terrorvision with us so it should be How does it feel that ‘Homegrown’ has single that really seemed to break the a good night with some good music. hit its 25-year anniversary? album into the big time… It feels like the blink of an eye, to be It did, yes. Though the first time it was Dodgy play Newcastle’s Riverside on honest. Yesterday, I was trying to create released it was October so it didn’t really Friday 8th February as part of their the programme for the tour we’re go with the season we were singing 25-year celebrations for ‘Homegrown’. working up to and what struck me most about. Tickets, priced at £22.00 (including was how much the music industry has booking fee), are available from ents24. changed in that time even in terms of That’s interesting because you’ve got a com. ‘Staying Out For the Summer’ has the way music is distributed and how, as re-recorded version that just came out been re-released and is available now on fans, we don’t physically own the music in January… iTunes, Amazon, and Spotify. we buy now. I look at younger bands (Laughing) We never seem to get the and realise that most of them will need a seasons right. We re-recorded the track second job to fit alongside their band. to be released with proceeds going to

Tickets available from wegottickets.com or by emailing Lee at [email protected] INTERVIEW // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 29 SWEARS DEATH VALLEY GIRLS “We recorded a live session for Black Square Sessions which is going to “We like the non-stop schedule of the road” be available on Amazon Prime video soon”

Middlesbrough band SWEARS are gearing we think sounds good but it stems from What was it like recording the track at Los Angeles-based scuzzy rockers Death don’t want to get too caught up with We love touring and playing every up to release their new single so Lee our collective love for the likes of Queens Prospect Studios? And why did you choose Valley Girls have a reputation for neck- reviews, positive or negative, because night. When we tour we get into a good Allcock caught up with the alternative of the Stone Age, Fidlar, Turbowolf, to record it there? break speed ear-splitting riffs blended you can start to either be complacent rhythm as a band and we like the non- rockers to find out more. Demob Happy, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Last summer, we recorded a live session with pop harmonies. or second guess your own instincts with stop schedule of the road. It does get Badbadnotgood, OutKast, Metz, and for Black Square Sessions which is going to writing songs or trying out new ideas. stressful and you have to take care of Firstly, thank you for actually sending over Bass Drum of Death. Lyrically, it tends to be available on Amazon Prime video soon. Damian Robinson caught up with the yourself so you don’t get sick - and it’s a press kit to go with your latest release be whatever is on our mind at the time Through that, we met Ed Hall who is a total band to chat about their new album, Lead single ‘Disaster (Is What We’re tough to get enough sleep - but we’re (it makes things a lot easier). For those combined with the mood of the song. So babe and was recording the audio for that ‘Darkness Rains’, and their upcoming After)’ has a psychedelic meets pop feel. doing what we love every night and that bands and artists out there who are unsure far, we’ve released one song about political session. He liked us and he was interested tour of the UK. How was it created? makes up for any of the negative sides of what to include in a press kit, can you divisions, one about paranoid delusions of in recording us - and we liked how he made That song was around for a while. of touring. provide them with some advice? grandeur, another on a post-apocalyptic us sound on the live recording. We chose I love the new album with its catchy Before we came up with the final Basically, just write a little bit about the rock-show in a nuclear bunker, and one to record at Prospect as the room we use is melodies and loaded guitars. A few version, we had a couple of different You’re playing Newcastle as one of only formation of the band, the people in the about colonialism. fantastic: you can get a great drum sound months on from its release, how do you versions that we had worked on during five UK dates. Was there a particular band and anything that makes the band from it, the lads that work there are sound feel when you look back on the album? practices until it finally came together reason you’ve chosen to play up here? interesting such as a list of all the things Your new single, and your fifth in total, is and there’s an unlimited amount of fresh We’re very proud of it and happy with one day in a flash of inspiration. Bonnie We’re excited to play Newcastle that you have accomplished and are proud called ‘Subliminal’. So what’s it about? pots. how it all came out. It was a long year of had the lyrics and melody ready to go because we never have. We’d like of as a band. It’s also important to mention Our fifth single, ‘Subliminal’, will be released touring so to find time to work on it was but the band had not clicked on the to think our booking agent chose it what you have coming up i.e. new music on Friday 8th February. ‘Subliminal’ was And finally, what else do you have planned trick, but we made it happen! music until one day the guitar riff and because The Animals are from there and and gigs, links to all your social media/ recorded at Prospect Studios, tracked, for 2019? organ part appeared out of nowhere. we love that band and we also love real Spotify/music and a couple of high-res mixed and mastered by Ed Hall (of AllSilk Loads more gigs, more music, the release The album has been getting rave reviews We jammed on a bit, Bonnie sang and animals and we’re excited to see what photos for publication. Mastering House), and is about the way in of physical forms of music and trying not including a special note in LA Weekly as there it was. kind of animals we’ll meet in Newcastle! which we absorb attitudes and opinions to die. ‘One of the Albums of the Year’. Are you You’re well known in the North East for from an invasive, all-pervasive media which affected by critical praise? You’ll be out touring in early March. Death Valley Girls play The Cluny, your fuzzy, alternative rock sound, but reaches into our lives, distorting our image For further information about SWEARS It does feel great to get good reviews With a reputation for a relentless show, Newcastle on Sunday 3rd March. what artists influence you and why? of ourselves and those around us. and their new single, head to Facebook. and to be on end of year lists, but we’re how challenging is it to maintain your Tickets, priced at £8.00 in advance, are In terms of music, we’re just writing what com/swearsbanduk. also very critical of our own work and dynamic each night? available from thecluny.com.

30 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ INTERVIEW INTERVIEW // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 31 CHARLEA B THE EAST POINTERS “Expect lots of pink and sparkles” “We’re actually in the recording studio right now in Nashville”

North East singer-songwriter, Charlea B, is emotionally-driven song due to the struggles from 19:00. Advance tickets are £5.00 for There’s a reason, beyond their dazzling songs on ‘What We Leave Behind’. Was it difficult to strike a balance preparing to release her debut album, so I have been through the last couple of years adults, £2.00 for children or £6.00/£3.00 on musicianship and hugely entertaining between your traditional-sounding Lee Allcock caught up with her to talk about trying to juggle too much at once and feeling the door. live shows, that Canadian outfit The East Your debut album, ‘Secret Victory’, was instrumental tunes and catchy radio- the emotionally-charged record, the release suffocated. Pointers have connected with audiences JUNO Award-winning. Baring that in ready songs? party and more. What can gig-goers expect at your right across the globe, making new, mind, did you feel that there was added Only when you start to worry about Where did you record the album and why? launch gig? original roots music the hippest, most pressure on you this time around to write genres and rules it can be difficult. The There’s definitely an influence of American I recorded the album at the Middlesbrough At the launch, you can expect some amazing vibrant thing going. The reason? The East another possible award-winning album? writing process is pretty fluent for us singers seeping through your powerful yet College HE Studio’s because my partner, local artists such as Marie Marx, Andi Pointers write about real life, sketching We were really fortunate to have another with tunes and songwriting as we don’t somehow effortless singing style. Do I hear Grant Robinson, has access to them due to Grainger and Katie Briggs who is new to the out its joys and sorrows in vivid strokes. JUNO nominated record with ‘What think too much about where it lands. I hints of Alicia Keys, LeAnne Rimes and even being an alumni. Originally, I was going to ask scene. Expect lots of pink and sparkles too Lee Allcock caught up with the band to We Leave Behind’. I don’t think we put think that’s the way to do it so it always Dolly Parton? someone else. However, my partner wanted (laughing). There will also be free badges on speak about the pressures of making a pressure on ourselves though as the goal feels fresh. Yes, definitely. I’ve grown up listening to a a challenge to produce his first album and the night as well as merchandise you can record, radio-ready tracks and to also find is just to make great records. If they win lot of Dolly Parton, Shania Twain and Carrie I felt we worked well together even if at purchase. out what they have in store for their fans awards it’s just a bonus. And finally, what’s next for The East Underwood. I even have inspiration coming times I wanted to kill him (laughing). in 2019. Pointers? from a lot of 80’s music, such as Madonna What atmosphere are you hoping for? The album reflects on the traditions of We’re actually in the recording studio and Celine Dion, as well as modern What issues did you have? I am expecting everyone to enjoy the night. You worked with superstar East Coast- Canadian Celtic music, where it comes right now in Nashville (with Gordie again). musicians like Jessie J, Ward Thomas and Too many (laughing). The main issue that we Whether it’s the music or the people they bred songwriter/producer, Gordie from, and what it means to the people, After this, we tour the UK and have a few The Shire’s. had in the studio is my guitar playing took are around, I’m hoping for lots of laughter Sampson on your new album, ‘What We but it also strides in new directions for weeks off. And in the spring and summer, more attempts to perfect than expected. and dancing. Also, I’m aiming to be able Leave Behind’. What was that like? Did the band, doesn’t it? Especially in terms we’ll mostly be playing US, Canadian and The superbly written ‘Punchbag’ was an Also, I have not only had a bad infection over to touch peoples’ heartstrings with my you receive any advice? And were there of creating radio-ready tracks... European festivals. emotionally-charged track, so can we expect the last few months which has affected my emotional album. any issues? We all grew up playing trad music, pop more of the same from your debut album, vocals, but I have had unexpected bad news Gordie is amazing; we grew up listening music and whatever else was on the The East Pointers head to Sage, ‘Breathe’? within the family. Charlea B plays Westgarth Social Club, to his records and also followed his radio. Since we started the band there Gateshead on Sunday 3rd February with Oh god, yeah - it’s a fully-blown emotional Middlesbrough on Saturday 9th March. career as a songwriter and producer in were no rules as long as it felt real. As support coming from Balter. Tickets, record because each track in the album is You’re hosting an album launch gig too, Tickets, priced at £5.00 for adults and £2.00 Nashville. He’s a master of songwriting, songwriters, it’s been fun exploring priced at £15.30 (including booking fee), about a milestone in my life or events that aren’t you? for children, are available by contacting trad music and contemporary music contemporary arrangements with are available from sagegateshead.com. have happened in my life that have affected Yes, I am. It’s at the Westgarth Social Club Charlea B at Facebook.com/charleab. which is rare. We wrote ‘Two Weeks’ acoustic instruments. me. Also, the main title track is the most in Middlesbrough on Saturday 9th March with Gordie which is one of our favourite

32 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ INTERVIEW Keith Brown INTERVIEW // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 33 ARE YOU AN ASPIRING MUSIC OR CULTURE JOURNALIST LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCE IN THE FIELD?

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CONTACT: LEE ALLCOCK AT [email protected] THE MURDER CAPITAL nevolume.co.uk “We were creating something at the time that we were proud of”

Five-piece Dublin band The Murder were only making it for ourselves in a way Before even releasing your debut single, Capital make their way to Think Tank?, but people like it and that’s a bonus. The Irish Times called you out as Ireland’s Newcastle this month so Lee Allcock best new rock band. You must be proud NEED A COVER caught up with them to speak about You’ve supported the likes of Slaves, of that? YouTube, their debut single and The Irish Shame and fellow countrymen Fontaines Accolades from other people’s minds can Times. DC. Did they give you any helpful advice? cloud you with a false sense of security DESIGN FOR YOUR And what were those shows like? and in the world of creating music, there’s You headline Think Tank? in Newcastle I’m not sure that we spoke about things nothing more dangerous than thinking on February 6th, so what can gig-goers like that as we’ve been good friends with you’re something that you’re not - in NEXT ALBUM? expect from your live set (in terms of set- most of those bands for a while now so quite a literal sense. Those things are nice list, surprises, stage antics etc.)? we tend to just hang out and have a laugh. for friends and family to read but we do We strive to create something authentic. The Slaves boys were true gentlemen and appreciate the support. Authenticity runs through the formation we had a great time on those couple of and creation of our work and we perform dates. You recorded ‘Feeling Fades’ with Flood GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES with only that in mind. I think this a natural (Warpaint, U2, Nick Cave & The Bad state for us otherwise it would fall to For those of our readers who haven’t Seeds, New Order). What was that like? pieces. listened to your debut single ‘Feeling Did you learn anything from working with Fades’ yet, can you describe the sound and him? Before even bringing out any studio the lyrical content of the release?... Flood is very direct in his communication LOGO, IDENITY & BRANDING // PRINT DESIGN material, you released one live recording in It’s relentless. The lyrics came from a so there’s nowhere the conversation can’t ALBUM COVER DESIGN // SOCIAL MEDIA ‘More Is Less’ which went viral on YouTube. poem I wrote straight after we came off flow. It was a pleasure and a primer for How did that feel? stage after a show in Dublin. I was in the the future. What mattered to us was that we were smoking area writing and coming down creating something at the time that off the show and this emerged quickly. It The Murder Capital head to Think Tank?, we were proud of. It was an immediate holds a different meaning to each listener I Newcastle on Wednesday 6th February. QUOTE: ON ENQUIRY TO reaction to our surroundings, an imagine, however, to me, it’s relentless and Tickets, priced at £6.60 (including booking N3VOLMAG observation of a one-way relationship of craving community. fee), are available from seetickets.com. RECEIVE AN EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT ON sorts (take from that what you will) - we YOUR NEXT DESIGN PROJECT.

Email: [email protected] Visit: tbgraphics.co.uk 34 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ INTERVIEW RASCALTON BUCKCHERRY “We’ve got a soft spot for the North of England” “I love the British Crowds”

Leaders of the new Glasgow scene, band but we don’t really care if we’re music is all about the performance and punksters Rascalton have been gaining honest. More than anything we find that intensity which comes from a show. American rock band Buckcherry head to 02 the loss-leader, making it more difficult for How long have you known your tour significant attention as ones to watch nice comments tend to encourage us Bands like the Libertines meant so much Academy, Newcastle this month so Wayne the artist to keep making music for a living. buddies Hoobastank? And what can you in 2019, with their show-stealing but we’re in a scene in Glasgow at the to us because of their intensity so when Madden caught up with the band to speak say about them? performance at Stockton’s ‘Songs From minute which is full of really amazing it comes to recording what we tend to about pirates, artwork, and UK crowds. What kind of things can we expect from I met them back in 2006 and kept running Northern Britain’ event in November bands. If we’re good enough to be do is record the band playing. Recording the shows? You’ve got a diverse catalogue into them at festivals and, eventually, we proving to North East music lovers that considered as part of the scene then us all individually just doesn’t seem to There’s been a lot of change in Buckcherry so can we expect such diversity onstage? ended up doing shows together in SoCal. they can live up to the hype. Damian we’re more than happy. work and because we know the songs over the years to this point. What are some It depends on which set you’re seeing The singer, Doug Robb, is a downright Robinson caught up with frontman Jack so well we can usually record in only 2 of the constants, musically? as we have different setups for festivals kickass frontman with a solid machine Wyles to find out more about their next You’re back out on the road almost or 3 takes. The one constant, and probably most and headlining shows. One thing’s for behind him. trip to the region. immediately after returning home from important, is Josh’s vision and songwriting sure, though - you’ll get the hits. We’re in a previous tour. How do you remain Is 2019 all about recording for you? in Buckcherry since day one. It’s no secret rehearsals now for the ‘Warpaint’ record I know you’re back for Hard Rock Hell in ‘Songs from Northern Britain’ was quite motivated to put on such an intense We’ll still be out on tour but yeah, our that there have been a few different players cycle and since the musicianship in this November, too. Do you enjoy the British a show… show? plan is to record some more music and along the way - some integral, some not - band is at an all-time high, I’d like to stretch crowds? Yeah, we loved that show. We love During the day on tour, we tend to be capture the sound of the live show but the fact remains: Buckcherry is one of out musically during the segues and solos. I love the British crowds! When they love the North East crowd and Stockton in knackered and we’re not sure if we can we’ve been developing. We’ll always the last successful, uncompromised rock ‘n’ you there’s nothing better. particular, and it seems that the more put such energy into our show, but as tour though as we love it so much. roll bands out there. As a collector, I love your guitar pick northern you get when you tour the soon as the lights go off we just tend to designs and will no doubt be bothering you What’s the long-term goal right now for more fun the crowd it is. We’ve got a switch and we go for it. We’re all best Rascalton play Think Tank?, Newcastle, Releasing a press release in 2008 blaming for some designs on the night. But I’d love Buckcherry? soft spot for the North of England. friends in the band so we spur each on Saturday 9th February with support pirates for the illegally downloading of your to know what inspired you to start creating Getting to share the music we make with other on and our energy on stage comes coming from Strange Bones. Tickets, music was quite funny. Can I ask, though, these little artworks and if you trade or millions of people around the world. Fred Perry’s ‘Subculture’ recently marked from our friendship off it. priced at £9.00 (including booking fee), how do you feel about album sales these collect them yourself with other artists on you down as one of the most exciting are available from skiddle.com. days? Does purchasing music in the “age of the road? Buckcherry head to 02 Academy, punk-orientated bands around. With You’re about to go into the recording streaming” still have an appeal? Sometimes it’s a saying going around the Newcastle on Tuesday 12th February. your reputation growing, how does that studio. How will you capture the For further information about Rascalton Ha, I don’t remember that, but I guess it bus, sometimes a funny movie, or just Tickets, priced at £23.00 (plus booking fee), impact the band? intensity of your live sound? and their upcoming tour, head to doesn’t matter though - all music sales have maybe something as simple as a logo and are available from seetickets.com. It’s a funny one because it’s nice to At first, it took a while to figure out Facebook.com/Rascalton. gone down the shitter. Yep, it’s the “age of signature. I’ve never thought about trading have people say nice things about the how we could record our sound. For us, streaming” and recorded music has become them with other people.

36 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ INTERVIEW Jeremy Saffer 37 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ INTERVIEW QUEEN ZEE “I’m very particular over making sure everything we do is WHITE LIES to the absolute highest standard” “Honestly, we always have a blast in Newcastle”

Liverpool pop-punk band Queen Zee on this one and it has set us up to work And finally, what is your take on British London post-punk band White Lies and Wings’ which is easily the heaviest most looking forward to playing and Head to Think Tank? Underground, with a label in the future. guitar bands at the moment? Do you head to Newcastle this month so Lee song we have ever done. It is the final why? Newcastle this month so Lee Allcock feel that there’s been a decline in recent Allcock caught up with drummer Jack song on the record and the final lyric When you’re playing that many shows, caught up with them to talk about their You’ve recently finished touring with years in terms of both numbers and Brown to discuss musical direction, of it is: “All the bravest boys, waiting honestly, sometimes it’s the things debut album, record labels and Iggy Pop. Dream Wife. What was that like? And quality? lyrics, and Europe. for the world to end” - a nice, if slightly around the gig themselves that get you did they give you any advice? There’s definitely no decline as there are pessimistic way to close an album. But most excited. So we will be playing at Your live shows are known for being It was like a boot camp - I learnt from loads of bands. Technology is making it One of the prominent features of your hey, we have standards to maintain. Vega in Copenhagen which is already raucous affairs, so can we expect your them every night. They really know how easier to exist but it’s just slightly harder last release, ‘Friends’, was the synth and long since sold out. That venue is also debut album to be just as energetic? to marry joyful energetic music with to “do it” in the same way bands used to. electronic elements. Can we expect You’re playing Boiler Shop in Newcastle a dream: they have some unbelievable You should expect no less. Queen Zee a powerful message which is harder By that I mean there’s an overpopulation more of the same from the new album? on Monday 4th February. You’ve chef catering the place who makes you is all about creating chaos. Now, that than it seems. Very often being overly of guitar bands than people who want Or how have you expanded your sound? played in the North East a few times breakfast, lunch and dinner at a level might not always be in a traditional punk political is a bit of a turn off as people to listen to it, so people are less likely to We have definitely expanded our sound throughout your career, so have there that I would pay very good money for. format, but the energy, the vibrancy, the want to escape from the depressing give you a shout. You’ve got to be really but all White Lies albums are heavily been any highlights from your shows in And Boiler Shop is actually one of the explosion of it should always be there; it nature of it all, yet Dream Wife have good, work really hard, be original, be indebted to days spent in studios full of the city? only venues on this tour we have never should be a rainbow Godzilla kicking the made their music so fun and colourful fresh, be the best of the best and most expensive synths so that element also I’m genuinely super excited for this played so I am buzzing to see that too! shit out of you. that you want to scream the words in importantly open minded - but just remains - we have just taken it in new show! It is one of the most welcoming I’m assuming there is a Michelin star opposition to all the bullshit you face. enjoy it. That’s what I do; I love Queen directions for certain songs. There are cities in the world, I think, and whenever chef catering for the day... Why did you decide that it was better to Zee, our record, our shows and all our elements of genres like prog, heavy rock we have played there people have really release your record on your own label Iggy Pop has declared that he’s a fan of fans. and psych rock across this album as well given it their all as well. A Newcastle White Lies head to Boiler Shop, (Sasstone Records) rather than work yours. That must feel a little bit surreal? as the pop music and production styles tour highlight for me it has to be the Newcastle on Monday 4th February. with a label? Totally surreal as the guy is a legend. He Queen Zee head to Think Tank? of the 80’s that we still love so much. time we played at St. James’ Park with Tickets, priced at £27.50 (including We had a few label offers but nothing was friends with David Bowie, he hangs Underground, Newcastle on Thursday Kings of Leon; I’m a huge football fan booking fee), are available from that made us feel at home. I’m very out with The Ramones, and he’s been 21st February. Tickets, priced at £7.70 Something the band has been credited and it was an absolute privilege to be on seetickets.com. particular over making sure everything there and done it more than anyone (including booking fee), are available for throughout your career is the lyrical stage in such an iconic ground. we do is to the absolute highest else. For us to measure up enough to from seetickets.com. content. That being said, what’s one of For further information about standard. As we’re all perfectionists, we make his record collection is something your favourite lyrics from ‘Five’? And finally, you’ll be heading all across White Lies’ upcoming tour, head to felt like we could do it better ourselves pretty special. There is a fantastic lyric in the song ‘Fire Europe on this tour so where are you whitelies.com.

38 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ INTERVIEW INTERVIEW // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 39

GIG REVIEW 1 GIG REVIEW GIG REVIEW GIG REVIEW COURTNEY BARNETT TWISTED WHEEL AT NORTHUMBRIA INSTITUTE, + DETROIT SOCIAL CLUB NEWCASTLE. 21/11/2018 + TOM MOUSE SMITH NE VOLUME RATING  AT KU BAR, STOCKTON Australian indie-rock luminary Courtney 30/11/2018 Barnett began what was to be an exhilarating 18-track set at Newcastle’s Northumbria NE VOLUME RATING  Institute with the lingering tones of her latest album opener, ‘Hopefulness’. Further tracks Manchester rockers Twisted Wheel brought from new LP ‘Tell Me How You Really Feel’ blissful bedlam to Stockton’s Ku Bar tonight. are met with great applause, with ‘Nameless, Supported by two of the North East’s most Faceless’ and ‘Charity’ being two highlights admirable talents, 14-year old Tom Mouse of this hugely triumphant gig. Later in her Smith and Newcastle’s Detroit Social Club, performance, Barnett even pays tribute to the crowd were suitably hyped for the fellow Australian outfit The Go-Betweens, arrival of the Oldham four-piece. It’s clear with an impressive cover of their 1998 hit to see why the lads have such a reputation TERRY & GERRY ‘Streets of Your Town’. Immediately welcomed on the punk-rock music scene, with their back for the start of a three-track encore, gritty lyricism and catchy choruses leaving + HOWLIN’ RIC &THE ROCKETEERS + CHARLIE THOMAS Barnett opens with her second cover of gig-goers arm in arm and baring their souls to the musical Gods. Although a few songs MUMFORD AND SONS the night - an intimate solo performance of AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH Gillian Welch’s ‘Everything is Free’ played from the band’s latest musical venture, to a room converted to complete silence. ‘Jonny Guitar’, made an appearance, their AT METRO RADIO ARENA, NEWCASTLE Courtney Barnett’s performance in Newcastle packed set mainly consisted of tracks from 17/11/2018 was an example of her ability to convey the their 2009 debut album, ‘Twisted Wheel’, 25/11/2018 juxtaposition of her songwriting and instil the much to the crowd’s delight. Fan favourites notion into her live show. As the lights sway such as ‘We Are Us’, ‘Lucy The Castle’ and NE VOLUME RATING  from light to dark, so does the mood - and ‘Strife’ caused the room to erupt into NE VOLUME RATING  so do the lyrics. From the nonchalance of brilliant chaos. This was yet another great her debut album to the social enlightenment gig at one of the North East’s most loved venues. KYRIE MORRIS Birmingham cult skiffle cow-punk audience in some way – chicken dances, of ‘Tell Me’, everything disentangles, and Right, let’s speak about the elephant in to make an arena gig feel intimate - and band Terry and Gerry returned to the train dances, sing-a-longs, and even a the result culminates with a performance to the room immediately here – the stage they managed it again. Performing an North East tonight for a show that Mexican wave were all performed by marvel over. SAM DOBINSON placement. After cancelling four shows acoustic section at the raised stage left really didn’t disappoint – especially in the audience throughout their set. In in their tour due to technical issues and and right of the main platform, this was terms of entertainment value. Opener terms of sheer entertainment value, GIG REVIEW logistical challenges, it was obvious that a truly intimate affair (especially if you Charlie Thomas’ intuitive use of loop Terry and Gerry hit the high-note and tonight’s gig, in terms of production value were seated next to these sections) which pedals and echoing vocals made it feel I certainly hope they’ll be back in the GIG REVIEW anyway, was going to be huge. However, added a different dimension to the night. like he had the support of a backing North East in 2019 – I’ll even practice ONE MILLION placing the stupendous stage in the centre Next time, however, I’d stick to keeping band throughout his dark, vintage, my chicken dance. LEE ALLCOCK of the arena just didn’t have the impact things simple as placing the stage in the alternative American-influenced set. the band’s production team were hoping centre of the arena just didn’t work (as you An excellent storyteller in his own right, PAUL SMITH MOTORS for. Spending half of the evening staring at may have gathered). LEE ALLCOCK track ‘3.55’ was a personal highlight 2 AT THE CLUNY, NEWCASTLE + THE PASTURES + THE GENTLEMAN the back of frontman Marcus Mumford’s and told the true tale of a Teesside BUSKER. THE GLOBE, NEWCASTLE head wasn’t how I’d expected the evening gangster from a bygone era – a story 24/11/2018 to go. Although a charismatic lead singer, the audience listened to intently. Now 29/10/2018 it was difficult to really connect with forget about the storytelling, as Howlin’ NE VOLUME RATING  Marcus and the full band for a lengthy Ric &The Rocketeers performed a foot- NE VOLUME RATING  period as he dashed between mics placed stomping set that was less about the The true King in the North, Paul Smith, at the front and back of the stage, turning lyrical content of their tracks (many of frontman of Maximo Park, made The Cluny With The Gentleman Busker and The Pastures his body to face the two separate sides them romantic love songs) and more his home for the night tonight. Supported warming us up nicely with their blends of of the arena. Now Marcus, and indeed about their distinctive Americana-blues for this solo gig by his backing band, The intense punk-meets-folk sounds, One Million the full band, did try their best to keep sound. Taking American traditions and Intimations - a collective hive of skilled Motors can’t help but hit a home run in front the audience on their side, including blending them with their own high- musicians themselves - it was good to see a of an already ‘on side’ audience. At their best playing hit ‘Little Lion Man’ very early in octane rock ‘n’ roll sound, frontman local lad return to his own back garden - and when relying more on their Replacements their set, but it just wasn’t working. The Howlin’ Ric takes this three-piece to a you could tell he wanted to make his home meets early REM sounds (‘Ghosts’, ‘Radio tour was put in place to promote their different level with his sublime vocal show special for all those involved. Smith’s Electrify’, ‘Let Me Down’), One Million Motors new album, ‘Delta’, which has moved the range – simply stunning. Now it was distinct Northern twang echoes throughout cut a stage presence which mixes The Rolling band in a new direction from the early time for the headliners, Terry and Gerry. his lyrics - something which is rarely seen Stones’ devil may care attitude with an days of ‘Sigh No More’ and its anthem- “Thank you for coming to the best club today - and gives a not so silent nod to his underlying love for a pop melody. Driven by filled songs – a maturity that comes with in Middlesbrough” announces Gerry as Northern heritage which he has never lost. some outstanding guitar work reminiscent of playing high-profile shows across the the band, avidly backed by John Peel in With a good mix of tracks from his various Peter Buck’s combined jangle and thrash, One world. However, the newer tracks seemed their heyday, played a vibrant setting successful albums, it made for a thorough Million Motors are a lively act, melding punk to lack the energy and passion of the likes filled with energy and passion. Playing set-list. Special mentions on the night have narratives with the right amount of pop insight of ‘The Cave’ and ‘Winter Winds’, with the a string of politically humorous tracks, to go out to tracks from his new record, and warmth; theirs is a protest wrapped up audience seemingly disengaged and using including my personal highlight ‘Butter ‘Diagrams’, including ‘The Public Eye’, ‘Silver in smiles. Last year’s hit, ‘Home Away from these songs as a chance to nip to the bar. on the Bread’ which referred to the Rabbit’ and ‘Syrian Plains’. A good rapport Home’, provides the largest cheers of the Now, I’ve been to a number of Mumford miners’ strike of 1984, the band thrived with the crowd on top of the fantastic music evening, but it’s their newer material which and Sons concerts over the years and on audience participation and at every made for a fascinatingly intimate night at sounds more interesting and shows the most I’ve been enthralled by their sets each given moment tried to involved the The Cluny. WAYNE MADDEN promise. DAMIAN ROBINSON time, with the band somehow managing

42 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ GIG REVIEWS 1. Martin Mathers 2. Dave Shaw Adam Barnsley 43 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ GIG REVIEWS FESTIVAL REVIEW GIG REVIEW THE GOLDEN AGE OF NOTHING + PHANTOM RADIO + HORRIBLE PORN AT MUSICLOUNGE, STOCKTON 12/01/2019 NE VOLUME RATING 

If you combined the influences and sounds from tonight’s support acts (act one, Horrible Porn, drone-induced artistic soundscapes in the style of Throbbing Gristle or Merzow; act two, Phantom Radio, emotional 80’s sounding synth meets pop a la OMD or Soft Cell) you may come close to describing tonight’s The Golden Age of Nothing show. Part accessible goth (‘Sleepwalkers’), part heavier guitar moments from the Mary Chain (‘You Wish You Were Bobby’) and part MADNESS pop wrapped in experimental electronics (‘Tiny Failures’), The Golden Age of Nothing combined AT METRO RADIO ARENA, NEWCASTLE are an interesting, intense examination of the darker sounds of the pop spectrum. Slightly remote from each other, the trio is on great 08/12/2018 form tonight, injecting emotion into their playing and performance though, at times, offsetting their good work with self-deprecating remarks. NE VOLUME RATING  Perhaps in need of a boost in self-confidence, The Golden Age of Nothing collective take their music and their playing to interesting places which are “Hey, you!” announces Suggs as he and poses as he’s become accustomed worth visiting.DAMIAN ROBINSON and his team of national ska treasures to, leaving sax player Lee Thompson to make their way onto the famous Metro often become the main focus for the Radio Arena stage with the audience fez-wearing audience – at one point screaming back: “Don’t watch that, during ‘Baggy Trousers’ I thought he watch this. This is the heavy, heavy was about to take off. With the delights GIG REVIEW monster sound…one step beyond.” Lee of ‘House of Fun’, ‘It Must Be Love’ Thompson’s sax blasts straight into the and ‘Night Boat to Cairo’ all making an intro of Madness/Prince Buster classic, appearance in their cleverly thought GOOD FRIEND ‘One Step Beyond’ and we know we’re out set-list, there is absolutely no + CUBS AT LITTLE BUILDINGS, NEWCASTLE in for a night of passion, of enthusiasm, reason for any Madness fan to have and of good old fashioned British left tonight feeling short-changed. 19/01/2018 humour. This is a band held in such Wonderful stuff.LEE ALLCOCK high-esteem in British Pop that they’ve NE VOLUME RATING  played on the roof of Buckingham Palace no less. And during a spell With Little Buildings ending up with a new running from 1979-1986, they released venue after all, the concern for North East 21 top 20 hits which, inevitably, has music lovers now is if the new location is able made them a British pop institution. to transfer the atmosphere of the current With short film excerpts from The venue across with it. Packed out tonight for Sound of Music displayed behind the the return of firm favourites, Little Buildings band throughout the majority of their maintains its tight, tribal atmosphere and set, Madness were in their element its culture for welcoming all bands with from the off and weren’t afraid to play opening arms. Warmed up nicely by spirited a number of high-profile hits such as punksters Cubs, whose straight to the point ‘Embarrassment’ and ‘My Girl’ within hardcore rebellion seems highly appropriate, the opening six songs (this confidence Good Friend blaze through their traditional, comes about from playing some of the in your face set with humour and grace. biggest venues in the world for over Highlight ‘Young Blood’ typifies their burning, 35 years). Never dull and never the intense, three-piece punk sound blazing with same, their set-list is shuffled once intelligence and emotion. Ending their set again tonight and is much different to with the lyrics “Where do you go? We’ve got their last Newcastle appearance, with nowhere to go/ Where do you go?/ We call ‘Cardiac Arrest’ and even ‘Yesterday’s this place home,” Good Friend finish with what Men’ making way for the likes of ‘Bed could almost be a conversation with the venue and Breakfast’ and ‘Driving in My Car’, a itself or a middle finger to those who continue Madness classic paying homage to the to provide minimal support to local artists and good old days of British motoring. venues. Tonight proved just how much we With every single track, Suggs postures need artists like Good Friend and venues like Little Buildings.DAMIAN ROBINSON

GIG REVIEWS // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 44 Bernie McAllister FIRE LADY LUCK SAPIEN TRACE BRUTO NEW ALBUM BY ‘SAID & DONE’ EP ‘BITE THE BULLET’ SINGLE ‘SLOW DANCE’ SINGLE NE VOLUME RATING  NE VOLUME RATING  NE VOLUME RATING 

Fire Lady Luck’s Newcastle’s Starting off with ‘Said and Done’ EP Electro-rock a bass-line which is the most recent dubstep three- bounces along release from the piece Sapien Trace in the gutter like long-running is here to throw Guns N’ Roses’ OCTOPUS8 Sunderland you into their sci-fi ‘It’s So Easy’, ‘Slow alternative/ world with new Dance’ takes on pop-punk band single, ‘Bite the an interesting and may actually Bullet’. Upon first approach in terms ‘LEAP OF FAITH’ be their best appearances, the of trying to combine release to date. artwork sets the modern rock with The band’s fusion of alternative rock and scene for this single with its impressive dark sci- classic rock sounds in the building of a verse and pop-punk is actually done very well, giving fi-infused space theme. Personally, I’m a sucker mixing emo with ska in the chorus. And in the NE VOLUME RATING  them a sound which is familiar while still being for a good bit of synthesizers and this song didn’t main, the combined sounds pay off. And in the distinctive. Their solid songwriting and Lewis disappoint with its intense sci-fi synthesizer main, this is anything but slow. Driven by full-on Thubron’s pleasant tenor voice make every track riffs blowing my mind. The fuzzy bass, heavy guitar licks styled to sound like a Foo Fighters’ After just one listen, this record had me so captured with its very enjoyable to listen to, to the extent that I drums and distinctive yet contrasting vocals classic circa 1998, the real sting of ‘Slow Dance’ infectious hooks that I was enticed to listen to it over and over honestly would struggle to choose a favourite amalgamate together like a well=built space-ray is done in its chorus; a cleverly constructed track from it (though I can see ‘Take Off My Coat’ set for destruction. If you’re a fan of anything wall of sound using heavy pop/rock structures again. This eight-track album was introduced to me with the being a live highlight). With that said, however, electronic and heavy this is something for you. underpinned with dramatic call and response first song, ‘What Really Matters’, which gave me a Gorillas- I feel the EP’s production hampers the material Imaging Rammstein and The Prodigy meeting lyrics. Following Guns N’ Roses and The Foo meets-The Avalanches feel. But what really sets Octopus8 somewhat. I can’t place exactly why, but the EP up at a party on a space ship with Pedulum Fighters’ sound, the reality is that whilst ‘Slow apart is their injections of jazz and classical piano parts. Their feels a bit muted and makes everything feel a driving, and this is what you should expect with Dance’ may not offer anything sonically original, sound is unique, with the combination of genres and styles such bit lacking in energy, even though the material this song. I imagine that this track would take it should be praised for its desire to experiment as hip-hop, trap, chill out, cafe del mar and electronic really and performances clearly has it on display. Still, you to another level in a live setting and will get with well-known rock structures and clearly JULIE GRANT working as a collective piece. The track that stood out to me despite that issue, it’s hard not to enjoy ‘Said and any electro-rock dubstep fan smashing up the aspire to make a hell of a noise, which it does. the most was title track, ‘Leap of Faith’, with its combination Done’ as a whole. You can purchase ‘Said and place. You can listen to ‘Bite the Bullet’ now at You can purchase ‘Slow Dance’ now on iTunes or Done’ now at fireladyluckband.bigcartel.com. soundcloud.com/sapientrace. TOBIAS HALFORD. stream the track on Spotify. DAMIAN ROBINSON of atmospheric classical piano, jazzy saxophone with the ‘MARRY YOURSELF’ SINGLE WILLIAM BROWN strong backing of electronic hip-hop house beats, which works NE VOLUME RATING  perfectly and has strengthened Octopus8’s unique sound; the song features an impressive combination of artists too including ENDEM & LEUM PICNIC SLEEPTAPE Newcastle’s Julie Grant has an Cheryl Martinez, YoungVegas, Leddie Mc and John McGough impressive musical history with on Saxophone. ‘Let’s Get it On’, featuring YoungVegas, has so appearances on live television and much depth to it too - the more I listened to it I kept on hearing ‘ANARCHY IS RELIGION’ ALBUM ‘GIRLS NIGHT’ SINGLE ‘NADIR’ SINGLE radio performances in the late 1980s parts I hadn’t noticed. What is really refreshing to hear on this NE VOLUME RATING  NE VOLUME RATING  NE VOLUME RATING  and early 90s commonplace for her album is the number of instrumental tracks which have been and her band. After a long hiatus, constructed and orchestrated in a way that it takes you on a she and her band have been busy at ‘Anarchy is Whilst several Colossal work. And if you haven’t heard of her journey through the world according to Octopus8. Songs such Religion’ is people in the alternative rock then you have been probably living as ‘Hypnotized’ takes you through a world of 80’s electronic the second local press have band SLEEPTAPE off the grid as reviews noting her sci-fi adventure leading to the dark city streets and alleys of album by North spoken about from Newcastle heavenly vocals combined with strong melodies have echoed grime. There is a clear distinction between each song on this East rap duo, ‘Girl’s Night’ have released through the area. In Julie and her band’s new single, ‘Marry album and a different approach developed for each track, Endem & Leum, being a change in their new single Yourself’, it has backing sounds built with the raw arrangement of showing the artistic abilities of Octopus8, not being content following their Picnic’s musical ‘Nadir’ - and I 2017 release, direction, only promise you this simplistic guitar, bass and drums which is refreshing to hear from with reproducing the same sounds for each song but showing a pop song. What I really respect about Julie is that I feel that this ’Planning half a glance is a band not to continuous creativity. An act that likes to keep their identity song is genuine and is not in any way over-produced. She and Permission’. at their back be missed. her band have had the confidence to keep this song simple and rather secret, all I know about Octopus8 is that they’re based in Now rap isn’t catalogue - or Claiming their without any real need to add flashy production methods and I Saltburn-By-The-Sea and that has created a dark uncertainty of usually my cup of tea but I went in with one appearance at a live show - would main influences are Foals, Lower Than believe that this makes the song more impressive and that the their identity - and I think it should be kept this way. Octopus8 an open mind and I’ll admit - this album underline Picnic’s blatant love of pop (that’s Atlantis and Biffy Clyro, I would say there message is not lost but is carried beautifully into the listener’s have been away for some nine years now and I have to say, I’m blew me away. Endem’s skills as a rapper the clever-infused-jazz kind of pop, not is a lot more to this band and a lot more ears. To listen to ‘Marry Yourself’ head to reverbnation.com/ glad they’re back. are on full display across the album, with the simplistic-bubblegum type). Loosely to come; upon first hearing the song I felt juliegrant1. TOBIAS HALFORD his impressive flow and conviction turning reminiscent of the early 90’s Acid Jazz sound, that I was listening to a band comparable even the occasional goofy moments ‘Girls Night’ focuses its structure on a loose to 30 Seconds to Mars with a big sound You can purchase ‘Leap of Faith’ by Octopus8 now on iTunes or (like discussing how closer ‘Cursed But groove, heavy bass, John Densmore-style that could fill up any arena. Their musical NE VOLUME RATINGS EXPLAINED stream the album on Spotify. Gifted’ was written the night before it was drumming, and supporting light horn moments; backdrop is filled with a lot of depth and is recorded or when the beat drops out in all combining to provide a strong, free-form beautifully recorded, containing heavy and To keep up-to-date with Octopus8, please also head to ‘Ballad of the Common Man’ into something structure for the lovely scat-sounding vocal intense parts while still filling you up with THIS IS AMAZING!  Facebook.com/Octopus8music and give them a like. where you can feel the passion behind from powerhouse, Robyn Walker. Whilst the emotion. Although the song feels short it is TOBIAS HALFORD them). Leum’s fantastic beats also help to lyrics aren’t necessarily anything overly clever - a growing experience with this one as the WORTH A LISTEN!  create an excellent backdrop for Endem’s aside from a humorous pop at a certain type of more you listen to it the more you realise rapping, with their crowning achievement partier - the melodies and musical structure of there are so many different elements to it SO, SO. GOOD EFFORT.  being ‘Diaries of a Sociopath - Page 3’ – it’s the song are; offering an interesting structure – it’s a fascinating listen. You can purchase TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT... a masterclass in storytelling through music which taps loudly enough on the door of pop the single now on Amazon or download it on  that is impossible not to admire. Rap fans, if without losing its jazz coolness or willingness Spotify. You can also keep up-to-date with NOT FOR ME, THANKS...  you haven’t checked this one out yet, get on to experiment. Full of risks and twists, this is an Sleeptape by heading to Facebook.com/ it now! WILLIAM BROWN interesting, if not radically changed, pop single. Sleeptape. TOBIAS HALFORD You can listen to ‘Girls Night’ now on Spotify. DAMIAN ROBINSON

46 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ ALBUMINTERVIEW \ EP \ SINGLE REVIEWS ALBUM / EP / SINGLE REVIEWS // NE VOLUME MAGAZINE // 47 • Broken Hands. • De Staat – Outrageous Contagious Tour. • Motorheadache + Rigid Digits. • The Ramona. FEBRUARY 2019 GIG LISTINGS/// The Cluny, Newcastle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. Head of Steam, Newcastle. £7.00. • Clem Burke and Bootleg Blondie. • Classical Season: Lars Vogt’s • Strange Bones +Rascalton. • The Rattlers. MONDAY 1ST FEBRUARY • Tom Williams. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Appassionata. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.80 Adv. Crook Hotel. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. Sage, Gateshead. • The Man from Mo’Wax. • Hey Beatles. • Junior Turner. • Rob Heron & The Tea Pad Orchestra £10.00 Adv. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. Free. • Fair Port Convention. The Forum Centre, Darlington. Station, Killingworth. Free. + Awkward Family Portraits. ARC, Stockton. The Cluny, Newcastle. • The Faim. • The Classic Rock Show. • Classical Season: A Night at the Think Tank?, Newcastle. £11.00. MONDAY 11TH FEBRUARY Sage, Gateshead. • 4 Bands Showcase Event. Italian Opera. • Slift. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Sage, Gateshead. • Barbara Dickson in Concert. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Classics for Kids: The RNS. • Folkworks: The East Pointers + Balter. Sage, Gateshead. Aviary. Sage, Gateshead. Sage, Gateshead. • Open Mic with Scott Kiers. • A Festival, A Parade. • Endorphinmachine. Flying Scotsman, Forest Hall. Free. Sage, Gateshead. TUESDAY 12TH FEBRUARY O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Jackie Oats. • Skinflint. ARC, Stockton. Crook Hotel. Free. FRIDAY 8TH FEBRUARY • Tom Stade: I Swear To... • Buckcherry + Hoobastank • Oilbirds & The Likkor Men. ARC, Stockton. + Adelitas Way. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £3.00 Adv. • Slipmatt’s World of Rave Presents SL2. • Born Villains. • The Godfathers + Johnny Seven O2 Academy, Newcastle. Sage, Gateshead. Star Inn, Newcastle. Free. + Bones Park Rider. • Magic of Motown. • Allusinlove. Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough. Middlesbrough Town Hall. • Master Musicians: ‘Young Lions of the Think Tank?, Newcastle. £7.70. • Vanderbilt + DeadWetThings. Keyboard’ Anne Denisova. Independent, Sunderland. £3.00 Adv. MONDAY 4TH FEBRUARY £12.50 Adv/£15.00 OTD. • Gazelle + The Red Jets. ARC, Stockton. • Asleep at the Wheel Duo Fest feat. • White Lies. • Kris Barras Band. Independent, Sunderland. £4.00 Adv. Ray Benson & Katie Shore. • Wham Bam Hank You Mam. Boiler Shop, Newcastle. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. WEDNESDAY 13TH FEBRUARY Sage, Gateshead. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • 80’s Vice City Presents: ABBA Night. • John Corabi. • Dodgy. Independent, Sunderland. • Rock School. • Endem & Leum. • Told Ya Once. The Cluny, Newcastle. Riverside, Newcastle. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. The Forum Music Centre, Darlington. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. • Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Carpets. • Enter Shikari + Palaye Royale • Dance for Hope with The Odell. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £10.00. • Russ Tippins Buskers. • Classical Season: Creswick’s Aviary. • David Stoker. + Black Peaks. The Cluny, Newcastle. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Sage, Gateshead. Salt Cove, Tynemouth. Free. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • FM. • Darlington RnB Club Presents: Three Tuns, Gateshead. THURSDAY 14TH FEBRUARY • Toyah. • Daryl Burns. • Shikari Sound System. The Robin Bibi Band. ARC, Stockton. Melton Constable, Seaton Sluice. Free. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. The Forum Music Centre, Darlington. • Igneous. • Indigo Jazz Voices. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. The Globe, Newcastle. • Jarrod Dickerson. • Contains. • Cancer Bats + Bleed from Within • Fair Port Convention + The 4 of Us. Middlesbrough Town Hall. Runhead Bar & Grill, Ryton. Free. + Underside. Sage, Gateshead. • 1977. • Rock School. Think Tank?, Newcastle. Post Boy, Ferryhill. Free. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Cohesion + The Tracies + Plastic Glass. • Ritchie Bee Band. • The Youngun’s. Independent, Sunderland. £3.00 Adv. The Sun, Burnopfield. Free. • Transatlantic Sessions. Middlesbrough Town Hall. • Tom Mitchell & The Borrowed Band. • Aargh Tour: The Joy Formidable. Sage, Gateshead. Poachers Cottage, Newcastle. Free. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £22.00. • Princes if Monte Carlo. • Pretty Weeds. • Sam Lewis + Lucas Renney. The Smiths Arms, Billingham. Free. Red Lion Inn, Whitley Bay. Free. • Wreckmeister Harmonies USA Independent, Sunderland. £12.00 Adv. • Mad Manners. • Jeremy McMurray & The Pocket + Fvnerals BEL. The Bridge Inn, Annitsford. Free. Orchestra. • 1977. • Revolutionaries. Trillions Rock Bar, Newcastle. • The Crimson Skies. ARC, Stockton. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Poachers Cottage, Newcastle. Free. The Smiths Arms, Billingham. Free. • Revolutionaries. WEDNESDAY 6TH FEBRUARY Flying Scotsman, Forest Hall. Free. • Bill Ryder. • Tiny Afro. • Sofistication. • Blackjack. Sage, Gateshead. The Plough, Alnwick. Free. Station, Killingworth. Free. • The Murder Capital. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Jump the Gun. Think Tank?, Newcastle. Star Inn, Newcastle. Free. • Royal Northern Sinfonia. • On The Rocks. • Beyond Blonde. • Syndicate 66. Middlesbrough Town Hall. Big Jug, Durham. Free. White Swan, Ovingham. • Thunder Please Remain Seated Whole Latte Love, Stockton. • Frankie Café. Crook Hotel. Free. • 4 Band Showcase Event. SATURDAY 2ND FEBRUARY • Mugshot. + Dan Reed. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Star Inn, Newcastle. Free. Sage, Gateshead. • Ritchie Bee Band. • The Panthers. • Jarrod Dickerson + J.P Ruggieri. The New Sundial. South Shields. Free. • Russ Tippins Buskers. White Swan, Morpeth. Free. • Open Mic with Scott Kiers. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Big River. Flying Scotsman, Forest Hall. Free. Crook Hotel. Free. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • American Girl. • Three Odd Shoes. • Jan Wobble & The Invaders Big Jug, Durham. Free. • Acoustic Showcase. Blue Bell, Washington. Free. FRIDAY 15TH FEBRUARY of the Heart. • Overdrive. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. SATURDAY 9TH FEBRUARY The Cluny, Newcastle. Market Lane, Newcastle. Free. SUNDAY 10TH FEBRUARY • Gringo Star. • Beans on Toast. The Cluny, Newcastle. • The Dead South. SUNDAY 3RD FEBRUARY THURSDAY 7TH FEBRUARY The Cluny, Newcastle. • Alter-Ego. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Cedric Burnside + Michael Littlefield • Homeboy Sandman & Edan. • Gangstagrass. The Globe, Newcastle. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Flash. & Scott Taylor. • Reggaeton Party. The Cluny, Newcastle. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Lee Houlding: The Spectre Expedition. The Cluny2, Newcastle. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Sage, Gateshead.

48 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ FEBRUARYINTERVIEW 2019 GIG LISTINGS 49 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ FEBRUARY 2019 GIG LISTINGS • Resurrection. • Rabble Rousers. • Russ Tippins Buskers. • Dr John Cooper Clarke. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £8.00 Adv. Crook Hotel. Free. Three Tuns, Gateshead. Middlesbrough Town Hall. FEBRUARY 2019 GIG LISTINGS/// • Willie J Healey. • Mad Manners. THURSDAY 28TH FEBRUARY • 4 Band Showcase. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.80. Station, Killingworth. Free. FRIDAY 15TH FEBRUARY • Simply Dylan. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Blue Rose Code + Joe Ramsey. Sage, Gateshead. • Saltburn Blues Club. • On the Rocks. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Open Mic Night with Scott Kiers. • The Hunna. Saltburn Cricket Club. Star Inn, Newcastle. Free. Flying Scotsman, Forest Hall. Free. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Alt-Shift-J. • The Pale White. Middlesbrough Town Hall. • Mark Nightingale + Strictly Smokin’ • Bear Wire Band. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £8.00 Adv. • Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes. • Jason Manns and Paul Carella. Big Band. Vigilant Inn, South Shields. Free. Think Tank?, Newcastle Georgian Theatre, Stockton. £15.00. • Spikedrivers + Little Criminals. Sage, Gateshead. • Bass Drum Of Death. Redcar Citizen Club. • Lauren Lowes. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £13.20. FRIDAY 22ND FEBRUARY • The Virginmarys + Florence Black. • Leif Erickson. Pumphreys Cellar Bar, Newcastle. Free. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £14.30. • Rushed Rush Tribute. Independent, Sunderland. £7.00 Adv. • Brendan Cole Live: Show Man. • Du Blonde. Three Tuns, Gateshead. TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY Sage, Gateshead. The Cluny, Newcastle. • Classical Season: Vogt’s Brahms 2. • Glass Cactus. Sage, Gateshead. • AndyX. The Smiths Arms, Billingham. Free. • Booker T. Jones. • The Cutty Bang Cabaret Show. • Psychedelic Porn Crumpets Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Sage, Gateshead. Disgraceland, Middlesbrough. + The Mysterines. • Gigeoke: 90s RnB. • Right Digits SLF Tribute. The Cluny, Newcastle. Sage, Gateshead. • JustSO. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Kathryn Joseph. • Beatlemania. Salt Cove, Tynemouth. Free. Sage, Gateshead. ARC, Stockton. • Emo Night. • Red 5. • The Auld Vagabonds. O2 Academy, Newcastle. The Smiths Arms, Billingham. Free. • The Firelight Opera Unplugged. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. WEDNESDAY 27TH JANUARY • Dan Snow. Red Lion, Whitley Bay. Sage, Gateshead. • Smiley & The Underclass. • Black Ice AC/DC. • Ritchie Bee Band. • Polo. Independent, Sunderland. £7.00 Adv. Three Tuns, Gateshead. SUNDAY 17TH FEBRUARY Alexandra, North Shields. Free. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Open Mic Night with Scott Kiers. Flying Scotsman, Forest Hall. Free. • SkaToons. • Doctor Brown & The Groove Cats. • Big Family Northern Knees Up! • We 3 Colonels. • Kurokuma + Bland Monarch Three Tuns, Gateshead. £3.00. Greens, Sunderland. Free. Sage, Gateshead. Poachers Cottage, Newcastle. Free. + Goblinsmoker. Friday 8th March. Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. • Bear Wire Band. NE Volume Presents: • Misunderstood. • This Machine. SUNDAY 24TH FEBRUARY The Crown, Whickham. Free. Big Jug, Durham. Free. Crook Hotel. Free. • Newcastle International Chamber Ghost//Signals • Mike and the Mechanics. Music Series: Vision String Quartet. + Echolines + Holy Braille. • Déjà Vu. • The Addiction. • Riff Raff. Sage, Gateshead. Sage, Gateshead. Little Buildings, Newcastle. £4.00 Adv. Station, Killingworth. Free. The Crown, Whickham. Free. Star Inn, Newcastle. Free.

• Liberty Belle. • Ska Mania. • North Eastern Music Inc. Cornerhouse Hotel, Newcastle. Free. Station, Killingworth. Free. Vigilant Inn, Newcastle. Free.

• Jess Haynes. • Sam Gibson. MONDAY 18TH FEBRUARY The New Sundial, South Shields. The New Sundial, South Shields. Free. • International Teachers of Pop + Beira • Overdrive. • The Cosmic Space Pirates. + Shamu. The Hastings, Seaton Delaval. Free. The Hastings, Seaton Delaval. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle.

• Tube Snakes. • FM. • CHVRCHES. Big Jug, Durham. Free Star Inn, Newcastle. Free. O2 Academy, Newcastle.

• Ma Kelly’s Boys. • Graham Henderson Experience. WEDNESDAY 20TH FEBRUARY Crook Hotel. Free. Crook Hotel. Free. • Old Tom. SATURDAY 16TH FEBRUARY The Globe, Newcastle. • Pulp Function. Greens, Sunderland. Free. ETON ALIVE UK TOUR 2019 • The Rookery. • John Adams. SPECIAL GUESTS SATURDAY 23RD SATURDAY The Cluny, Newcastle. ARC, Stockton.

• Whiskey Shivers. • Steve Aoki. • Russ Tippins Buskers The Cluny, Newcastle. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Three Tuns, Gateshead. FRIDAY 08 MARCH • 23rd-24th February. • Gypsy. THURSDAY 21ST FEBRUARY Rock Against Racism. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. MIDDLESBROUGH The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • Lamont Dazier. Sage, Gateshead. • Blue Oyster Cult + The Temperature TOWN HALL • The Jon Strong Band + Pete Davies. BOX OFFICE 01642 729 729 - MIDDLESBROUGH.GOV.UK Movement. Toft House, Middlesbrough. • Steve Harley Acoustic Trio. SEETICKETS.COM - GIGANTIC.COM ARC, Stockton. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Flash: A Tribute to Queen.

ARC, Stockton.

A CROSSTOWN CONCERTS PRESENTATION IN ASSOCIATION WITH ATC LIVE 50 \\ NE VOLUME MAGAZINE \\ FEBRUARYINTERVIEW 2019 GIG LISTINGS