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NEWS! BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT! WELCOME! Thank you so much for picking up PG.5 Gig Preview: PG.25 Backstreet Studio Redcar! Pete Williams at Westgarth NE Volume magazine - the magazine Social Club, Middlesbrough! produced by local music and culture FEATURES! fans, for local music and culture fans. PG.7 Festival Preview: Now that we’ve been in production for Gorilla Beach Festival at Majuba PG.26 Durham Brass Festival 2018! over three years, we’ve decided that the Beach, Redcar! August edition will include a brand-new PG.28 Waterfront Festival 2018! look so I hope you’ll love it. By updating PG.8 Gig Preview: PG.30 Richmond Live 2018! the design, we’ll be able to include more The Cordovas at Gosforth Civic articles and therefore we can support Theatre, Newcastle! and promote more events too – it’s all INTERVIEWS! good news.Anyhow, so here’s what to PG.10 Gig Preview: look out for this month. In this edition, Fur Dixon’s WTFUKUSHIMA at Shamu! we preview this year’s Waterfront Festival Westgarth, Middlesbrough! PG.33 in Hartlepool; we provide you with our PG.35 Del Amitri! PG.11 Gig Preview: honest opinion of Willowman Festival Folkish Fusion at Majestic PG.36 Eddy Gartry! in Thirsk; we keep you up-to-date with Theatre, Darlington! what’s happening in the region this month PG.39 Will Simpson! including: Folkish Fusion at the Majestic PG.12 Gig Preview: PG.41 The Voluntears! Theatre in Darlington, Pete Williams Status Quo at Middlesbrough Band at The Westgarth Social Club in Town Hall! Middlesbrough and Kinkajous at Gosforth GIG REVIEWS! Civic Theatre, in our culture section we preview Stockton International Riverside PG.44 Coco & The Butterfields at the Vault! CULTURE CORNER! Festival, and so much more. Just to remind you, if you’ll be running an event Culture Spotlight: PG.46 Julie Grant at Surf Café! PG.15 or bringing any new material out in July / Stockton International Riverside PG.47 Willowman Festival 2018! Festival (SIRF) 2018! August/September then please email our team at [email protected] and we’ll PG.16 Event: do all we possibly can to include a review/ Curious Arts Festival! ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS! news piece in our August edition which will be released on Friday 27th July. And PG.20 Stage: PG.50 Joshua Burnell, Rise To Happy Hour At Gala Theatre, Rebellion, Sleeptape, The thank you for supporting the North East’s Durham Endeavours, The Winterhill fantastic music and culture scenes – we Transmission, Toni Sidgwick wouldn’t be here without you. PG.21 Comedy: Ha-Ha Hartlepool Festival 2018! Lee Allcock PG.52-JULY 2018 GIG LISTINGS! Editor - NE Volume Magazine
All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers. The opinions expressed in NE Volume belong to the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of NE Volume or its staff. NE Volume welcomes ideas and contrbutions but can assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. NE Volume holds no responsiblilty to incorrect content supplied in adverts. NE VOLUME NEWS GIG PREVIEW: NECK USE NE VOLUME AT THE GEORGIAN TO PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS/BAND/LOCAL BUSINESS! THEATRE, STOCKTON Written by Sam Dobinson
London-Irish Psycho-Céilidh rockers, Promote your events, band and your local Neck, are set to take over Stockton’s business to more than 20,000+ music and illustrious The Georgian Theatre culture fans in the North East! later this month as they return to the region with a highly-anticipated This magazine, with a readership of 20,000+, is a fantastic CONTACT and once postponed headlining tool for local gig and event promoters, bands and North performance on Friday 13th July. Often East businesses to market themselves to local audiences. linked musically to such celebrated NE Volume is a North East magazine delivered FREE to a range of communities in the North East - covering bands as The Clash and The Pogues, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington, Redcar, many have drawn comparisons. Newcastle, Sunderland, and many more. Our next issue GIG PREVIEW: Backonthetracks.com in the US stated: will be out on Friday 27th July so get in touch now to get EDITOR: LEE ALLCOCK “If The Clash had been born in the involved! LISTINGS: EMILY HOOK Emerald Isle, they might have ended up sounding like this!” Carefully weaving PETE their way between the electricity of We produce adverts in eighth, quarter, CREATIVE: TOM BROWN half, full page and double page spreads. - punk-rock and the melancholy of If you would like a full NE Volume traditional Irish music, Neck manages advertising pack sent out, please Contact information WILLIAMS to master the niche genre known as contact [email protected] Email: [email protected] | Phone: 01642 237348 ‘Psycho-Ceilidh’. Now renowned on or call us on 01642 237348. www.nevolume.co.uk/contact AT WESTGARTH SOCIAL the live circuit of the UK and beyond for their infections tones of Celtic Our trained journalists can write your copy while our CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH punk and incredible live performances professional designers can help to put your adverts which seem to captivate any crowd together. So whatever your requirements are, we are Written by Sam Dobinson they play for, Neck spawned from here to help! Magazine designed by Tom Brown Graphic Design. For quotes on Design and Consultancy services contact Tom Brown at: the densely Irish populated North [email protected] | www.tbgraphics.co.uk At the age of 18, West Midlands-raised London neighbourhood of ‘County bassist Pete Williams was invited by an Holloway’.After initially restricting old school friend to join a yet unnamed their performances to the confines of “new-wave soul group” which would and Roustabouts’ at Tesla Studios; with the London Irish pub circuit, they have soon become the now celebrated guest appearances from Mick Talbot, since broadened their horizon - both group Dexys Midnight Runners. Back on Clive Mellor, Fred Skidmore, Danny musically and geographically - touring LET'S GET SOCIAL! tour with his own band and under his McCormack and Josie Lawrence. The LP viciously across the US, UK, Ireland own name, The Pete Williams Band are was released a year later on 30th March and mainland Europe in recent years. set to return to the North East later 2015.Peter and his band deliver songs of Now a well-respected and raucous live this month with a highly-anticipated mystery, imagination, love, loss, joy and act, they have established themselves performance at the Westgarth Social memory that come down on you like as a monumental festival band, and Club in Middlesbrough.In 2012, Williams a ton of feathers and his performance have over the years performed at released his long-awaited debut solo in the heart of Middlesbrough later some of the world’s largest and album entitled ‘See’ which featured a this month is sure to be a gig not to be most acclaimed festivals, including six stunning guest appearance by friend and missed. Support for the night comes performances at Somerset’s beloved fellow musician Richard Hawley, lending from local artists Thee Strawberry Glastonbury Festival. his hand on guitar. Hawley spoke of his Mynde and Peg Powler. The Pete Williams Neck play Stockton’s The Georgian relationship with Williams: “We can Band plays Westgarth Social Club in Theatre on Friday 13th July. Tickets, smell each other out. Pete smells good Middlesbrough on Friday 27th July. priced at £6.00 per person in FOLLOW US TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE NORTH EAST and is a damn fine man and musician”. Tickets, priced at £10.00, are available advance, can be purchased online at A return to Sheffield was in store for to book online at ents24.com or by georgiantheatre.co.uk or by contacting MUSIC AND CULTURE SCENES! WWW.NEVOLUME.CO.UK Pete Williams and his band in 2014, contacting the venue directly on 01642 The Georgian Theatre Box Office Published monthly by NE Volume. Printed by JAK HQ Limited (www.jakinc.uk) the location in which he would record 242164. Doors for this one open at directly on 01642 606 525. Doors for Unit 4 Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY. [email protected] his second solo album ‘Roughnecks 19:30. this one open at 20:00. For more information please contact [email protected]
4 5 NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS
FESTIVAL PREVIEW: FESTIVAL PREVIEW: NORTHERN GORILLA ELECTRIC BEACH FESTIVAL FESTIVAL
Written by Sam Dobinson AT MAJUBA BEACH,
Back once again for a third year, REDCAR Northern Electric Festival is set to take Written by Johnathan Ramsay Newcastle’s prominent Ouseburn Valley by storm as a celebration of electronic Redcar’s Majuba beach is quickly music and artists hit the North East becoming the North East’s answer this month. With a bigger line-up and to Ibiza with its regular beach parties more venues than ever before, this GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: and festivals - sure, Redcar can’t quite summer’s festival is sure to be an event match the weather of the legendarily not to be missed for the electronic Balearic party island, but it can match music fans of you out there. the atmosphere.Gorilla Beach Festival With a wide range of venues to BODIES ON STONEFIELD is the latest music event set to put explore across the unique and on a huge summer party on Majuba’s rather picturesque setting of Eastern AT THE CLUNY, golden sands. The daylong event, hosted Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley, a more by Gorilla events, will see some of the diverse selection of electronic music is EVEREST NEWCASTLE world’s biggest DJs descend upon the on offer for the people of Newcastle humble seaside town for what is shaping and beyond to savour. From the Cluny + LUMP HAMMER Written by Sam Dobinson up to be one of the biggest events of the 2 and The Cumberland Arms to the summer. Highlights of the day include Tyne Bank Brewery Tap and the Tanners + TONG PO AT TRILLIANS, Born and raised in the small rural town of powerhouse Leeds DJ, rapper and Arms, every venue is within walking DarraweitGuim in Victoria, Australia, four producer, Tom Zanetti. The ‘You Want Me’ distance, allowing the liberty to traverse NEWCASTLE Findlay sisters - Amy, Hannah, Sarah and singer has been a staple of the Spanish the valley to sample the most of what sonic bliss’ all wrapped up in one Holly - join forces to form the progressive party scene for years now after breaking Northern Electric Festival 2018 has Written by Sam Dobinson tightly fitted LP. Supporting Bodies on psychedelic rock outfit Stonefield. And onto the house music scene with his to offer. With artists such as Ceiling Everest are Newcastle-based noise- this month, Newcastle’s illustrious music bouncy rapping and heavy bass rhythms Demons, Me Lost Me, Behold a Pale Come late July, Newcastle’s celebrated rock trio Lump Hammer and a rare gig venue The Cluny will open its doors to four years ago. Since then, Zanetti has Horse, Jennifer Walton, Grey Tapes, rock bar, Trillians, will open its doors for local sludge/psych instrumentalists, the Ozzie quartet, welcoming a night of continued to grow not only as a musician Parastatic, Simon Leeks,Tunnel Club, to welcome three-piece Liverpool Tong Po. On the back of their recently high-octane psych-rock which is not to performance at the One Movement but as an entrepreneur, with his Sleepin’ Dressed In Wires, Ruined My Birthday, and Manchester-based noise-rock released EP entitled S/T (released in be missed. Previously known as Lotah, Festival in Perth the following year. is Cheatin’ entertainment brand running Quest 808 and many more for you to band, Bodies on Everest for a free December 2017 on Inverted Grim Stonefield has over the past decade cut They performed second on the beloved successful club events in the UK and discover - be sure to grab your tickets performance of high-octane chaos Mill), Lump Hammer are back on the their teeth ‘rendering their powerful John Peel Stage on the opening day of across Europe - he’s sure to turn the and head down the valley this month. supported by fellow rockers Lump road promoting their latest effort. New mosaic of proto-psych’ in the confines Glastonbury 2011. Support on the night Gorilla Beach Festival into a party for Northern Electric Festival takes place Hammer and Tong Po.Heading into town material is set to be performed this of their Australian hometown before comes from French garage psych-rock the ages.Veteran Radio 1 DJ MistaJam in the Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle as part of their long weekend with Lump month by fellow Geordie support artists most recently offering their unique take band Slift and Newcastle’s fuzzy three- will also be in attendance, spinning the between Friday 20th and Saturday Hammer, Bodies on Everest describe Tong Po as they perform only their third on psych-rock to the wider world, even piece Cheap Lunch who are both set to freshest new dance tunes as well as some 21st July. Tickets are priced at £6.60 their sound as ‘Dungeon Wave’ and for gig in eight years. Bodies on Everest play touring with Fleetwood Mac in Australia impress whilst opening what is sure to bonafide classics. The host of Radio 1’s (including booking fee) per day ticket those heading down to Trillians later Trillians in Newcastle with support from for a run of three performances back in be a night drenched in fuzzy psychedelic Dance Anthems show, MistaJam has or £11.00 for a weekend pass and this month, expect the loudest of nights. Lump Hammer and Tong Po on Friday 2016. In 2010, the band won the Triple J madness. Stonefield plays The Cluny, over 14 years’ experience of being on can be purchased online at seetickets. After touring extensively over the years, 29th July. Entry to this performance Unearthed High contest with their track Newcastle with support from Slift and the pulse of the UK’s urban music scene; com. Tickets will be exchanged for the band found time earlier this year is free. For more information on the ‘Foreign Lover’ and with the accolade Cheap Lunch on Sunday 8th July with he’s a DJ that knows how to work a wristbands at the first venue you to release their second studio album performance, please head to the official came a period of high rotation on the doors opening at 19:30. crowd and is sure to bring a touch of visit, allowing you to freely move entitled ‘A National Day of Mourning’, Facebook event. Doors for this one open airwaves of one of Australia’s most Tickets, priced at £9.90 in advance class to the Gorilla Beach set. Other acts between venues as you wish. On a tight following on from their debut album at 19:30. And for further information respected radio broadcasters. (including booking fee), can be purchased at the festival include Danny T, Charlie schedule? Just popping in to see a few ‘Burning’ which was released back about the vast number of gigs taking After earning a wider following, Stonefield online at thecluny.com or by contacting Hepworth, Kane Ayton and more. Tickets, friends? You’ll also be able to pay on the in 2015; it’s six tracks and over sixty place at Trillians this month, head to secured a Glastonbury performance in The Cluny’s Box Office on 0191 230 priced from £22.25 (including booking door at each individual event. minutes of unrelenting ‘soul-crushing trilliansnewcastle.co.uk. 2011 after having impressed with their 4474. fee), are available from skiddle.com.
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GIG PREVIEW: VOODOO & THE CRYPTS AT BAR LOCO, NEWCASTLE
Written by Janine Lewis
Brighton-based indie/alternative band Voodoo and the Crypts are heading to Newcastle this month to perform at Bar Loco. The band is made up of four lads: Matt Mitchell (vocals/guitar), Jordan Woolnough (guitar), Sam Webb (drums), and Rob Davies (bass). Voodoo and the Crypts formed in 2015 and have been GIG PREVIEW: thriving in the Brighton music scene, playing alongside talented acts such as JUDAS, Cassia and The Island Club. 2018 looks to be a promising year for the band THE with shows sold out at Manchester’s ‘Band on the Wall’ and London’s ‘Borderline’. They are a well-gigged band with a more complex approach to CORDOVAS synth-pop featuring colourful, retro guitar sounds and tropical melodies as heard in AT GOSFORTH CIVIC their single, ‘Breathe’. The release of their new video for ‘Feeling’ demonstrates THEATRE, NEWCASTLE their attention to detail is not limited KU PROMOTIONS to only their music. The boys describe Written by Janine Lewis PRESENTS themselves as a mixture of 80s dance TH music and 90s psychedelia with textures With new album ‘That Sante Fe is decidedly American, wiring new FRIDAY 29 JUNE of acid house and pop which is definitely Channel’ set for release on Friday life into older influences with hazy shown throughout this track. There 10th August, Nashville-based band harmonies influenced by Grateful Dead HIMALAYAS are clear influences from the popular The Cordovas will be making a stop at and a blend of California’s country- + CATALYSE + THE RECKID indie band The 1975, with shimmery Gosforth Civic Theatre in Newcastle rock in its heyday. The simplicity of SATURDAY 30TH JUNE | THEATRE TIMED SHOW guitar hooks and exploring dark lyrics. this month in what will be their first- their music makes them practically Mitchell’s dreamy vocals and their ever visit to the North East. The band unproduced by modern standards with THE WALL OF FLOYD professional musicality is also enough includes frontman Joe Firstman (vocals/ quiet, articulated drums and a steady ONE OF THE UK’S LEADING PINK FLOYD TRIBUTES to please mainstream radio and more bass), Lucca Soria (vocals/guitar), Jon groove bass. If you were to replace all SATURDAY 7TH JULY | THEATRE TIMED SHOW underground audiences alike. Voodoo Loyd (vocals/keyboard), and Graham their instruments with acoustics, there and the Crypts have proved they are Spillman (vocals/drums). Firstman would still be a solid band as the music capable of producing sing-along anthems formed the band in 2011 before revolves around the harmony of their THE STRAITS UK A SPECIAL TRIBUTE NIGHT TO DIRE STRAITS and raw powerful songs with prominent releasing their full-length self-titled voices - it is boldly unadorned as if it vocal harmonies and huge bass lines; in album and a live album in 2012. were a live performance. If you’re a fan SATURDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER their live performances you can expect a Everyone in the band is a lead of American folk-rock bands like Dawes set of hard-hitting indie rock ‘n’ roll and vocalist as the group is committed and Little Feat then this is a band you TOM CLARKE undeniably danceable grooves. Voodoo to harmonizing, which can clearly will need to see. The Cordovas play at FROM THE ENEMY and the Crypts will be performing at Bar be heard in their striking but tender Gosforth Civic Theatre, Newcastle on TH Loco in Newcastle on Sunday 15th July, ballad ‘I’m The One Who Needs You Thursday 5th July with support coming SATURDAY 27 OCTOBER with support coming from Scruffy Pups Tonight’ from their upcoming record from Jon Wilkins. and Stereohazen. The event is free entry. which was produced by two-time Tickets, priced at £12.50 in advance, KAZABIAN For more information please visit the Grammy Nominee Kenneth Pattengale are available to purchase now at TOP KASABIAN TRIBUTE venue’s website at barloconewcastle.com. of The Milk Carton Kids.Their sound gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk. SATURDAY 24TH NOVEMBER STILL REGARDED AS THE NO.1 OFFICIAL AND 8 U2-2 ACCLAIMED U2 TRIBUTE KU • PRINCE REGENT ST • STOCKTON-ON-TEES TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM SEETICKETS.COM • THE STORYTELLERS, STOCKTON & SOUND IT OUT RECORDS, STOCKTON NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS
FESTIVAL PREVIEW: FESTIVAL PREVIEW: ROCK RIDGE SUMMER BURDON PLAIN, DURHAM STREETS
What’s the word, thunderbird? Well, AT SEABURN the word is that one of the top annual Rock ‘n’ Roll festivals in the North RECREATION PARK, East continues to grow in stature and SUNDERLAND popularity – and that festival is called Rock Ridge. Festival-goers will be One of the North East’s leading music travelling from near and far to soak up festivals has unveiled its biggest line-up this unique atmosphere that’s created yet as it joins forces with the Tall Ships at the event situated at Burdon Plain, Races Sunderland 2018. As start host between Stanley and Sunniside, as the port for the international sailing event, central marquee stands proudly in the the city will welcome 55 sailing vessels field among which campers in various and their crews along with an estimated forms of accommodation can stay. GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: 1.5m visitors, for four days of theatre, The main action is under canvas, as the circus, music and dance, from Wednesday weekender begins. If you like Rock ‘n’ 11th to Saturday 14th July. And Summer Roll, Rockabilly, Jumping Rhythm and Streets – a free annual festival founded Blues, Western Swing, Hillbilly Bop and FUR DIXON’S FOLKISH five years ago by The Futureheads’ most points in between, you’ll love this guitarist and vocalist Ross Millard – is because the Rumble’s got it all. moving from its usual Southwick home The stage is set, and what a stage it WTFUKUSHIMA to Seaburn Recreation Park to be part is, benefitting from expert lighting FUSION AT THE WESTGARTH, of the event. On Saturday 14th July, stars and sound systems. It’s set at just the such as Little Comets and the world right volume that wherever you are AT MAJESTIC THEATRE, MIDDLESBROUGH famous Royal Northern Sinfonia will in the marquee, you can hear as well DARLINGTON be among a packed line-up performing as anyone else. It’s so good to hear Written by Janine Lewis across three stages. Also taking to the that Rock Ridge will include a wide main stage will be up-and-coming North natural-born talent for playing rock with range of genres, with the diversity Written by Sam Dobinson East band The Pale White along with her band WTFUKUSHIMA.Formed in of sounds performed including the Fur Dixon may not be on your radar Photography by Paula Short festival favourites Smoove & Turrell who pounding upright bass of a rockabilly but she should be. The ex-member of 2016, and compromising of drummer This will be a spectacular show, but with describe their music as northern funk, trio, the honking sax in a Rock ‘n’ Roll The Cramps is heading to the North Dusty Watson (The Sonics), keyboardist Folkish Fusion is a continuation of a small enough audience to maintain have spent most of the year touring band, steely guitar of a Stetson-wearing East this month to tour with her band, Paul Roessler (The Screamers, 45 Grave), the philosophy of Folkish Explosion a level of intimacy. Feel free to stay at and will be showcasing their new album, Western Swing band, and the bouncing WTFUKUSHIMA (brilliant name). bassist Dave Provast (Dream Syndicate), that has been a magical happening in the bar and chat with the performers ‘Mount Pleasant’. There will also be sets harmonica of an R&B combo. They’re all The American singer started her career and lead guitarist Bernard Yin (Fuzztones, Newcastle each year for three years – there will be plenty to meet! from Durham punk-rock band Martha there, including some local favourites, when she was 21 years old, performing BellRays), their single ‘Cod’ine’ was - and now the concept is heading to Organisers added: “We’re confident and folk band The Cornshed Sisters, some brought from a distance, and her first single for The Whirlybirds released in 2017 ahead of their debut Darlington’s historic Majestic Theatre that there will be a convivial, warm and alongside shows from bands as far afield other up-and-coming artists. before forming the band The Hollywood album ‘Return 2 Sender’ released this year this month. “We believe in giving original exuberant atmosphere as there has as Norway and New Orleans. The all- If you’re a toe-tapper, foot-stomper, Hillbilly’s. The legendary psychobilly band - it features a solid, hypnotic rhythm and and talented artists the opportunity been for Folkish Explosion for the past female Shake Em Up jazz band will bring thigh-slapper, seated-watcher, standing- The Cramps became fans of Fur Dixon’s Fur’s powerful vocals. The sound is heavily that they deserve to share with an few years.” The full confirmed line for traditional Louisiana style jazz to the admirer, jiver or bopper, or you just work and so they whisked her away to influenced by early rockabilly and the open-minded audience, what they have Folkish Fusion includes Ol’ Glory, The main stage, while Norwegian indie band love the rocking sounds of live music, Europe where she became their first post-glam/early punk scene with which discovered in the way of art. It’s a night Dead Seat, Choral Interlude and Driven Beezewax – who first formed 20 years the Rumble’s the place to be on the bassist. Fur Dixon started her early career in. that is made by the audience as much as Serious. Folkish Fusion is not to be ago – will perform tracks from their most first weekend in August. Fur Dixon is known for exuding The wild rock ‘n’ roll singer will be the acts – an audience that recognises missed so be sure to grab tickets while recent EP, ‘Out of the Window’. Swedish The headline act this year is 80’s chart smouldering energy onstage and played supported by Klammer from West many of the most moving artists are you can. YouTube sensation Gunhild Carling neo-rockabilly band, The Polecats. around 60 shows on The Cramps’ ‘Date Yorkshire, The Shakin’ Nightmares and not heard of by most people” - stated Folkish Fusion takes place at Darlington’s – famous for playing three trumpets Tickets range from evening-only passes with Elvis’ 1986 tour. Despite being GGAllan Partridge from Teesside, when the event organiser. Expect an evening illustrious Majestic Theatre on Saturday at the same time – will be making an to full festival tickets (£15.00 - £60.00). asked to stay in the band, Fur declined she heads to the North East. of only the best and most exciting 14th July. Tickets, priced at £8.00 per appearance with her band, bringing some Pay on door entry allowed is allowed and focussed on creating her own music Fur Dixons’s WTFUKUSHIMA plays at gems of Americana, country, folk and person, can only be booked online at jazz standards along with some unlikely up to 22:00. instead. She went on to front bands Westgarth Social Club in Middlesbrough rock, alongside a 16-piece community ticketsource.co.uk. Doors open at 19:00 pop classics. Summer Streets Festival will For further information about the throughout the 90s, including The Dixons on Sunday 15th July. General admission is choir. The choir will be performing and with the first act on at 19:30. take place from 12 noon to 20:30 on event, including details regarding the full £10.00 and advance tickets can be bought and Blow Up, as well as producing folk collaborating with North East band Saturday 14th July at Seaburn Recreation line-up, head to rockridgeevents.co.uk. at seetickets.com. music.Now Fur Dixon is back to her Driven Serious at the end of the night. Park, Sunderland - and entry is free.
10 11 NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS
GIG PREVIEW: FESTIVAL PREVIEW: FRANCIS SALTBURN TULIP CALLING Written by Sam Dobinson
Head down to Saltburn this July for a QUARTET Saturday full of phenomenal live music featuring acclaimed bands of almost AT THE GLOBE, NEWCASTLE all genres from across the country. On Saturday 14th July, Saltburn House Written by Stephen Jude Hotel opens its doors to Saltburn Heading to The Globe in Newcastle Calling, the town’s annual festival in early August is the locally-produced, of music for a fantastic day of live raised and musically delicious Francis Tulip music celebration.Headlining will be Quartet - a group of young jazz virtuosos Brighton-based psychedelic garage grown from the youth jazz ensembles at punk duo, Skinny Milk. The band has the Sage in Gateshead and further tended just released their new single ‘Blood’ to by Paul Edis. The group formed in 2017 GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: and is currently touring as Male Gaze and immediately made a big impact on supporting Oh Sees, Once and A the North East’s Jazz scene. The quartet Future Band, Flatworms and Kelly comes together in the summer and STATUS QUO KINKAJOUS Stoltz at Castlemania 2018. Also winter for recitals and recordings. When featuring on the bill are Leeds sprung the group are not together, they are all AT MIDDLESBROUGH AT GOSFORTH CIVIC dark post-punk outfit Klammer and dispersed across the world, attending York’s very own rockabilly, garage and their many prestigious music colleges, TOWN HALL THEATRE, NEWCASTLE traditional gum-chewing greaser rock from the United Kingdom to the United ‘n’ roll band Snakerattlers who have Written by Lee Allcock this year signed to Wipeout Music States of America, to perfect and hone Written by Callum Patterson their already amazing assets. Francis Publishing, lining up alongside the likes Tulip Quartet is returning this summer Are you a fan of nu-jazz? Then you of Sleaford Mods, Holy Moly and The with a combination of covers of classic Go on, admit it: you actually quite like definitely don’t want to miss out on Crackers and Avalanche Party to name and contemporary jazz tunes alongside Status Quo. You know all the words to seeing up-and-coming jazz band Kinkajous but a few. Esteemed DJ’s from local some original compositions created by ‘Rockin’ All Over the World’ and you’ve who head to Gosforth Civic Theatre this Psychedelic Music Event Organisation members of the band. Francis, the leader, liked ‘Whatever You Want’ since it was month.Travelling through places where (BBC 6Music), Nick Luscombe (BBC3) and expert party starters Lost in brings influences from modern jazz used in an advert campaign for Argos. borders disappear, Kinkajous give birth and have been acclaimed by Stamp The the Woods will be entertaining the as well as funk and classic jazz and has It’s fine; you’re among friends. I, myself, to an innovative path to nu-jazz. The Wax, London Jazz and CLASH Magazine. crowd all day. Lost in the Wood have stunned many an audience. Joel Brown have seen the Mighty Quo more than London-based quintet led by Adrien Cau More recently, they have been writing curated their very own live acoustic compliments Francis’ melodies with his 10 times and you always leave with a (saxophonist/clarinettist) and Benoît and recording their debut album, which stage, The Come Down Stage, and so incredible piano skills and is influenced by smile on your face. OK, it’s not quite Parmentier (drummer/producer), joined announces a clear turning point for the far, such acts as The Woven Project, the likes of Evans, Monk and many other the same now that blonde rock ‘n’ roll by Maria Chiara Argirò (pianist), Andres band. With an uncompromised identity, Independent State of Mind, Marcus H Jazz giants. Michael Dunlop (electric bass) icon Rick Parfitt is no longer with us, Castellanos (bassist) and Jack Doherty their new material is a mesmerising blend Soiled Warped Freqs, Dale Husband and Matthew MacKellar (drums) provide but Francis Rossi and the rest of the - a steady stream of number 1 albums (keys), conjure passionate, introspective of powerful synth lines with strong jazz and Co and Mimi O’Malley have been the groove and beat that are vital to the boys are still rockin’ and Richie Malone flowed for Quo through the 1970s, as and powerful music that draws from their elements. The album has been recorded at announced to perform.Many more acts ensembles’ mood and colour. Francis is a worthy replacement - he has Rick’s they became one of the biggest bands shared love for jazz and electronica. Old Paradise Audio by Jim McRae (Jordan are set to play Saltburn Calling and will Tulip Quartet is described as ‘the next big guitar parts down to a tee.For those in the country. If you’ve never seen the Their live performances are exhilarating Rakei) and will be mixed by renowned be announced closer to the date. To thing’ by local jazz reviewers and there is of you who don’t know - where have Quo before, don’t let your naysaying yet intimate, reflecting the bands’ Brendan Williams (whose past work find out more please visit the Saltburn certainly something special about the jazz you been? - Quo formed in the late 60s friends put you off - these guys are a outstanding musicianship and versatility. includes releases from the2014 Mercury Calling event page on Facebook. band that the phrase “you must see it to and had their first big hit with ‘Pictures British rock institution and have some They’ve played a number of key live dates Prize-nominated Gogo Penguin). This Saltburn Calling takes place at Saltburn believe it” comes to mind about them. of Matchstick Men’. Ditching their absolute bangers up their collective over the years including London’s Jazz is sure to be an essential and exciting House Hotel on Saturday 14th July, Francis Tulip Quartet will be playing at Carnaby Street chic stage clothes for sleeve. In other words, you’ll like it, you’ll Cafe, Manchester Jazz Festival, Secret release in an already thriving UK Jazz starting at 13:00. The Globe in Newcastle on Sunday 5th their everyday jeans and t-shirts, Quo like it, you’ll la la like it. Garden Party, Rough Trade, U-Percut scene. Kinkajous heads to Gosforth Civic Tickets are priced at £10.00 (including August. The show begins at 19:30 and parted ways with their original keyboard Status Quo plays Middlesbrough Town Jazz Club (FR), as well as tours in France Theatre, Newcastle on Wednesday 25th booking fee) and are available to finishes at 23:00. player, slimming down to a four-piece Hall on Saturday 21st July. Tickets, and the UK.Having previously released July with support coming from Newcastle purchase online at eventbrite.com. Tickets can only be purchased on the and creating the hard-rockin’ boogie priced from £40.00, are available from two EPs, they have gained support electronic outfit, Grey Tapes. Tickets are sure to sell fast so be sure door and they are available at £6.00 each sound that became their trademark. The Middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk (at the from Gilles Peterson (Worldwide. Tickets, priced at £8.00 in advance, are to grab your ticket whilst you can. (£3.00 for students). British public loved it - oh, yes they did time of writing). fm), Jamie Cullum (BBC2), Don Letts available from gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk.
12 13 NE VOLUME CULTURE SPOTLIGHT
Featuring :
Full line up and ticket details at: www.festivaloflaughs.co.uk Lauren patterson, joey page, Paul ‘silky’ white, Jo caufield, martin mor, nigel ng, lou conran, Laurance Clark, Pottervision, George rigden, tom houghton and more ! full line up online !! CULTURESPOTLIGHT Tickets only a tenner per night or a pony for the weekend STOCKTON INTERNATIONAL ‘The world’s best international festival of outdoor art’ One77, 177 york road, hartlepool, ts26 9eq - 01429 862177 RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL (SIRF) Written by Sam Dobinson stated: “At the heart of SIRF are our with the National Centre for Circus dedicated audiences that have been coming Arts, has trained 25 disabled veterans Stockton International Riverside Festival is to the festival for many years and the serious in performance especially for the piece. back once again, poised and ready to take seekers of new trends in street theatre. There’s something for everyone at over the streets of Stockton Town Centre Our hopes for the future of the festival are SIRF18 and with a packed programme early this August, bringing the people of centred round championing and presenting spread across four fantastic days, there’s the North East together to be intrigued, the best international street performances, guaranteed to be an event just for you. entertained, puzzled, moved and made supporting artists and companies to make From large-scale performances to intimate to laugh out loud. SIRF18 is set to take great shows and inviting audiences to shows, fun and quirky family shows to place from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th enjoy and actively participate in events. surprising and immersive evening shows - August and will welcome performers from And, of course, to remain the world’s be sure to head down to Stockton’s Town all across the globe as they head to the best international festival of outdoor art.” Centre later this summer for incredible riverside of Stockton-on-Tees. Stockton International Riverside Festival performances and magical moments for Organised by Stockton Borough Council, is now celebrating its 30th anniversary all of the family. With an abundance of festival organisers have worked tirelessly after debuting in August of 1988 and has exciting activities for all of that family to over the course of the past year in order continually taken inspiration from festivals all get involved with, SIRF 2018 is the perfect to ensure that Stockton International across Europe in such countries as Holland, family day-out. Look out for their ‘Family Riverside Festival 2018 is back bigger France and Spain, to become an outdoor Friendly’ symbol around the festival, and better than ever, noting: “Beneath art spectacular with a focus on international highlighting the performances suitable for the performances lies a hidden year- performers and companies. a family audience, ensuring you don’t miss round programme of planning, technical Launching this year’s festival into orbit is ‘This any of the fun! Stockton International expertise, professional collaboration and Is Not For You’ by Graeae, an epic outdoor Riverside Festival takes place across Council-wide support.” SIRF has over performance paying a moving tribute to Stockton Town Centre between Thursday the years established itself as one of the Britain’s wounded war veterans - men and 2nd and Sunday 5th August and is one of world’s greatest celebrations of outdoor women whose contributions to history the finest cultural events on the North arts. Alan Davey, Chief Executive of Arts often go unnoticed. ‘This Is Not For You’ is East’s arts calendar. Council England spoke very highly of a story of veterans’ fight for respect and For more information on SIRF and the Stockton International Riverside Festival: remembrance, told with heft, beauty and festival’s proceedings, please head online “(SIRF is) The world’s best international wry humour, both on the ground and off to their official website at sirf.co.uk where festival of outdoor art.”In a quote from it, with audio description and signing (BSL) you can find all of the timings, the list of their website, organisers of the festival as integral parts of the production. Graeae, shows taking place, and more.
15 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER EVENT: FOOD & DRINK: CURIOUS ARTS GOSFORTH BEER FESTIVAL FESTIVAL 2018 Written by Sam Dobinson Photography by Tracy Hyman
Following on from two incredibly This August, Gosforth Civic Theatre successful festivals in 2016 and 2017, hosts their biggest beer festival yet with Curious Arts Festival returns for a a weekend of craft beer, live music and third year with the aim of exploring street food. With free entry, thirty taps and celebrating LGBTQ culture from their official website, Curious Arts queer arts culminating in an evening of the best local and national beer on keg through the arts; increasing visibility, state: “Year-round, we offer advocacy for showcase of Liz Aggiss’ work ‘Slap and and cask, street food from some of the dialogue and understanding of the the Queer arts sector and consultancy to Tickle’ at the illustrious Baltic venue. best-loved food trucks in Newcastle, live LGBTQ community. Curious Arts organisations in the cultural and creative Tickets are priced at £12.00 per person bands, family entertainment and even Fourpure, Wild Beer and many more to of upbeat, sonically-diverse and engaging Festival is an annual celebration of sector - commissioning ambitious, diverse- (£8.00 concessions) and are available retro gaming, Gosforth Beer Festival be announced closer to the festival, with a live bands for your delectation, bringing LGBTQ culture across the North led projects and touring arts productions.” to book online at Baltic.art. Whilst the will bring people together from across greater emphasis on keg beers. Food will down the hugely popular Rob Heron and East which champions and develops And much to their credit, they do. This ‘Curious Vogue Ball’ and ‘The Baltic is the area with 2,000 expected to pass be served up across the weekend from the Tea Pad Orchestra, Behold a Pale the LGBTQ cultural offering of the is demonstrated by the events on show Curious’ events require tickets for entry, through the doors of the charity run Tyneside street food powerhouses Scream Horse and Twist Helix, while during the region, increasing opportunities for the at this year’s celebration. Opening the remaining events are free to the general venue from Friday 3rd – Sunday 5th for Pizza and Meat:Stack, alongside exciting day there will be family fun to entertain LGBTQ community as artists, audiences festival’s proceedings on Sunday 1st July is public. Curious Arts Festival 2018 will August. Beer lovers can expect to see newcomer Cubanos with each taking one the little ones while the grown-ups enjoy and participants. As a not-for-profit the Curious Festival Talk, which welcomes take place in various venues across old favourites and new releases from day of the festival. Entertainment this year a pint! Gosforth Beer Festival runs from organisation, Curious Arts ‘strive to LGBTQ North East Youth Support Newcastle and Gateshead between some of their favourite local and national is on another level. Friday will be played out 16:00 on Friday 3rd August to 20:00 on improve the quality of life of LGBTQ service, parents and young people for an Sunday 1st and Sunday 8th July. breweries such as Almasty, Cloudwater, to a backing track of funk, soul and disco Sunday 5th August - and entry is free. communities, their friends and families, open discussion about gender identity and To find out more information regarding Northern Alchemy, Magic Rock, from local DJ Tim McVicar, while there’ll For further information about the event, by promoting visibility and opportunities supporting young people. Closing the 2018 the festival and to purchase tickets, Summer Wine Brewery, Box Social, also be a beer tasting session for the please head to gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk. for audiences and artists.’In a quote Curious Arts Festival is a day of female-led please head to curiousarts.org.uk. Kernel, North Brewing Co, Beavertown, uninitiated.On Saturday, there’ll be a night
COMEDY: EVENT: KIRI PRICHARD MCLEAN WITCH CULTS AT THE + ROB AUTON AT THE STAR AND SHADOW STAND, NEWCASTLE CINEMA, NEWCASTLE
Written by Meghan Ewart Witch Cults, taking place on Saturday 14th July at The Star and Shadow Cinema Comedians Kiri Pritchard McLean and in Newcastle, will feature a series of Rob Auton will headline what promises talks, films, musical performances and the epic poem ‘The Seer Sung Husband’, the line-up to perform her Lovecraftian- to be a hilarious bill at The Stand in even a theatrical piece all themed around and the Circle of Spears theatre group based set of folky electronics and vocal Newcastle this month. Winner of Chortle Awards nomination in 2015. She to the importance of working. He has witchcraft through the ages. The line-up will be performing ‘WITCH’, a play about loops. Other notable performers include The Chortle Awards’ ‘Best Compere’ has made numerous TV appearances been a popular act at the Edinburgh features talks from one of the leading a witch trial based on real evidence. The Georgia Seddon, Peg Powler, Hokano, and ‘Best Club Comedian’ in 2018, including on Russell Howard’s ‘Stand Fringe since 2014 with his performance academics in the field of literature and musical entertainment is of wonderful and and Marcus H. The film programme will Pritchard McLean has talent that has Up Central’ on Comedy Central, ITV’s of ‘Faceshow’ describing his own witchcraft, Diane Purkiss, who will be varied styles. Black Mountain Transmitter, feature two full-length features including not gone unnoticed. Her debut show, ‘Elevenish’ and multiple appearances on work, in past interviews, as: “my shows talking about Scottish witches in the realm the Lovecraftian musical project of James the camp cult classic ‘Simon, King of ‘Hysterical Woman’, first graced the BBC Radio 4’s ‘The Now Show’, ‘The definitely come from an amazement.” of the dead. Local art historian Gail-Nina Robert Moore, returns to Newcastle. the Witches’ and the Italian print of the stage at The Edinburgh Fringe in 2016 News Quiz’ and ‘Ellis James: State of the Kiri Pritchard McLean and Rob Auton Anderson will give her talk ‘Hecate or James last took Newcastle by storm in witchcraft documentary ‘Witchcraft ’70 - such was the demand of this show, Nation’. Performing alongside Pritchard will perform at The Stand in Newcastle the Horned Man – was there a God of 2013 as part of the Unearthing Forgotten (Angeli Bianchi…. AngeliNeri)’ which it then transferred to Soho Theatre in McLean is fresh-faced Yorkshire comic Rob on Monday 9th July. the Witches?’ and organiser, Folk Horror Horrors event at the old Star and Shadow features extra footage not available in June 2017. The British comic is both Auton who The Guardian has described as Tickets are priced at £5.00 in advance Revival’s own Darren Charles, will be and is certain to take centre stage once other versions of the film. The rest of the director and writer for sketch group ‘The Brian Cox of Comedy.’ The comedian and can be purchased from thestand. discussing historical accuracy in cinematic again. The Heartwood Institute is another programme is made up of contemporary ‘Geins Family Gift Shop’ which itself covers a variety of topics including yellow, co.uk where you can also find out more adaptations of early modern witch trials. exciting electronic project. Their most short films by some of the best artists has received accolades including an the sky, faces, prickly lyricism of Bob Dylan, about the range of comedy nights coming Poet and senior lecturer at Teesside recent album, ‘Secret Rites’, will provide working today. Edinburgh Comedy Awards nomination Pablo Picasso, Bruce Springsteen and up this month. Doors open at 19:00. University, Bob Beagrie, will be joining a suitably witchy soundtrack to the event. For further information about the event in 2014 for ‘Best Newcomer’ and a golfing great Arnold Palmer with regards the line-up to perform sections from Local legend Nathalie Stern will also join please head to folkhorrorrevival.com.
16 17 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER COMEDY: EVENT: LARRY DEAN AT THE WALKING WITH STAND, NEWCASTLE DINOSAURS AT METRO Written by Meghan Ewart RADIO ARENA, Scottish comedian of the Year (2013) NEWCASTLE and Live at the Apollo panellist, Larry Dean, will bring his hilarious material Written by Sam Dobinson to Newcastle this month in what’s a show not to be missed by comedy The dazzling £20 million production, creatures including dinosaurs such as the for survival and supremacy depicted fans from the North East. The comic Walking with Dinosaurs, has been seen Stegosaurus, Raptors, and the terrifying in almost cinematic realism.’ It’s the first made his mark in comedy with his encounter of coming out to his strict and has appeared on many shows by over 9 million people in more than Tyrannosaurus-rex which will be prowling must-see live arena experience for debut in 2008 and has earned many Catholic parents. ‘Fandan’ (2017) showed including ‘Comedy Up Late’, ‘Live 250 cities around the world and this the floor of the Newcastle’s arena this audiences of all ages, so book your awards including winning the ‘Amused the comic’s diverse range of talent in from the BBC’ and ‘Live at the Apollo’ July, Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena month.Three individuals are required tickets now...before they become Moose Comedy Award’ in 2016 at writing, instead discussing a story based with Gary Delaney (2017) - he has welcomes the worldwide spectacular, to operate each 1.6-tonne creature and extinct! Walking with Dinosaurs will be the Edinburgh Festival as selected by loosely on sitting in a café with two also appeared on this year’s Comedy starring Michaela Strachan, through its with the latest scientific research now staged at Newcastle’s historic Metro the Comedy Industry Panel - this was murderers - this show became among Central UK’s ‘Roast Battle’ against Sofie doors for the last ever time. implemented into the updated version of Radio Arena between Friday 20th and after his 2016 show, ‘Farcissist.’ The 10 of the best Edinburgh Festival Fringe Hagen. Larry Dean will appear at The With an incredible budget, the £20 the 2007 live production, the creatures Sunday 22nd July with doors opening award-winning show discussed modern shows reviewed in 2017. Since 2015, when Stand in Newcastle on Sunday 8th July million production features ‘new, state now look more realistic than ever! at 18:00 for the Friday showing and at topics including Dean’s life after opening he was shortlisted for ‘Best Newcomer with his brand new show, ‘Work in of the art technology, making this the For those planning on heading down 10:00, 14:00 & 18:00 for the following up about his sexuality, his long-term Award’ at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards, Progress.’ Tickets are priced at £5.00 in biggest and best dinosaur show in the to the Metro Radio Arena this month, two showings. relationship and the current dating Dean’s ability to cover sexuality, Scottish advance from thestand.co.uk where you world.’ With a team of internationally- prepare to be amazed and thrilled as the Tickets start at £29.90 and are available scene. His first show, ‘Out Now’, again themes and working-class identities has can find out more about what’s coming renowned designers working with greatest creatures ever to walk the earth to purchase online at metroradioarena. gave an open and detailed description not gone unnoticed. He also won ‘Bath up at The Stand this month. Doors world-leading scientists, they have return before your eyes. ‘Watch them co.uk and from the booking hotline into the comic’s life, discussing his Comedy Festival’s New Act of the Year’ open at 18:00. impressively created 18 life-sized walk, hear them roar, and see their fight number at 0844 4936666.
EVENT: COMEDY: GEMARTS’ MASALA LAUREN PATTISON AT FESTIVAL HOLE IN THE WALL,
Written by Sam Dobinson DARLINGTON Photography by Anna Miller Written by Meghan Ewart
GemArts’ annual Masala Festival returns Edinburgh Fringe-nominated comedian, to the region once again this month Lauren Pattison, brings her hilarious for a nine-day celebration embracing a set to Darlington with award-winning audiences heard stories of the comic worked alongside some well-known blend of the finest South Asian arts and comedian and host, Andy Fury. Born in being sick as a result of being hungover comics including Sarah Millican, John culture, spread across venues and spaces for everyone to participate in. Dance to Festival vibes. Dabbawal will also be on Newcastle, the young and fresh debutant in supermarkets, tales of Facebook envy, Bishop and Jason Manford. He is also a across the North East. After winning the the Bollywood and Bhangra beat, create hand at GemArts’ Masala Festival Mini brings her tales of break-ups and moving uber getaways after bad dates and an successful novelist with his self-written Arts Council Award in Journal Culture a beautiful silk painting, or get intricate Mela on Sunday 22nd July, serving up from her hometown to the capital, to insight into being a female comic. Despite ‘My Cup Upset’ book following the FA Awards 2017, GemArts’ Masala Festival henna designs, as well as lots of other fun authentic Indian street food for hungry a local audience. Her previous tour being young, Pattison tells of her journey Cup journey from start to finish…he has received yet another well-deserved activities. Entry to this event is free to the visitors. For Dabbawal restaurants ‘Lady Muck’ was Pattison’s Edinburgh from heartbreak and being ‘ghosted’ by wrote the book after visiting a Hebburn nomination, this year in the category of general public so be sure to drop by and opening times and bookings visit Fringe debut and saw her nominated for her boyfriend, subsequently leading to Town FA Cup game and it prompted a ‘Best Event Tyneside’. The culmination indulge in a rather generous selection of dabbawal.com.GemArts’ Masala Festival the Fringe’s ‘Best Newcomer Award’ her online dating struggles and her big successful tour. North East comedians of Masala Festival 2018 is once again South Asian activities from 11:00 on Sunday takes place in Newcastle from Saturday in 2017; she also came third in the move to London. Her relatable and honest Lauren Pattison and Andy Fury will bring delivered by an outdoor spectacular in 22nd July.Take your senses on a very 14th to Sunday 22nd July. ‘Funny Women Awards’ the same year, experiences are proof that her self- their hilarious award-winning material Live Garden. Delve into an enthralling special journey as Masala Festival returns For more information regarding the following on from becoming a finalist in proclaimed ‘unexpected success’ is well to Hole in the Wall in Darlington on mix of South Asian flavours for all the to Dabbawal. Over nine days of the festival, festival, including details of exactly what the BBC ‘New Comedy Award’ in 2016. deserved. Comedian and Hilarity Bites’ Monday 9th July. family. From interactive storytelling and sample the one of a kind festival menu is going on and when, and for booking The ‘Lady Muck’ tour took the Geordie ‘New Act of the Year’ 2010 winner, Andy Tickets, priced at £3.00 in advance, are lively performances to vibrant arts, crafts created by Dabbawal’s talented chefs, soak inquiries, please head to gemarts.org comedian to Australia and New Zealand Fury, will act as host alongside Pattison. available from hilaritybites.co.uk. and dhol drumming, there is something up your surroundings and enjoy the Masala now. for the first time. Local and international Just like Pattison, fellow Geordie, Fury has
18 19 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER
STAGE: ART: HAPPY HOUR AT GALA NAVAL HEROES THEATRE, DURHAM EXHIBITION IN Written by Sam Dobinson SUNDERLAND
Tmesis Theatre’s new production Two of England’s most loved naval combines their unique physicality with commanders will feature in a new hilarious comedy, music and text from exhibition timed to mark the arrival into (1806), and a portrait of Lieutenant Granville “We’ve collated a fascinating collection esteemed playwright and long-term Sunderland of the Tall Ships.Admiral Thompson, a Newcastle sailor who fought of paintings, prints and artefacts about collaborator, Chris Fittock. This month, Horatio Nelson and Newcastle-born on Collingwood’s flagship Sovereign at the Nelson and Collingwood and it seems ‘Happy Hour’, a fast-paced comedy Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood, Battle of Trafalgar. Other exhibits include fitting to time the exhibition for the visit exploring the modern obsession with and poignant show that examines the world delivered with impressive physical skill, heroes of the Napoleonic Wars, will a silver kettle presented to Collingwood of the Tall Ships. Sunderland City Council happiness and success, is making its way and culture of romantic love and was up until comedic acting and depth.”‘Happy Hour’ be remembered at an exhibition at by Newcastle Corporation after Trafalgar, Portfolio Holder for Communities and to the stage of Durham’s illustrious their new play, ‘Happy Hour’, Tmesis Theatre plays at Durham’s illustrious Gala Theatre Sunderland Museum, Library and Winter and a letter written by Nelson on board Culture, Councillor John Kelly said: Gala Theatre as part of a series of UK Company’s most ambitious production to on Wednesday 11th July at 20:00. Tickets, Gardens between Saturday 2nd June and his ship Victory in 1804.A night telescope, “Staging the Naval Heroes exhibition performances. Directed by Elinor Randle, date. Following a 2017 tour, ‘Happy Hour’ priced at £15.00 for adults and £13.00 Sunday 22nd July.The exhibition, ‘Naval reputed to have been used by Collingwood in Sunderland is a great opportunity to The workers on Level 3 are racing gained great critical acclaim, generating several for concessions, can be purchased online Heroes: Nelson and Collingwood’, will at Trafalgar and on loan from the Discovery celebrate our country’s rich maritime against the clock to reach their quota of four and five-star reviews from reviewers. at galadurham.co.uk or by contacting the feature a famous portrait of Nelson by Museum, Newcastle, will also be on show. A heritage, and our city hosting the Tall Smiley Faces, but are they really happy The Stage called the production an: “Expertly Gala Theatre Box Office on 03000 266 artist Lemuel Francis Abbott, painted Wearside connection will be a Sunderland Ships which helps reminds us all of the enough? Can we learn to be happy? And choreographed laugh out loud comedy” and 600. All orders will be subject to a fee of in 1797, and on loan from the National creamware mug, produced at Dawson’s magnificence of sailing ships. can our emotions be bought and sold? journalist for The Review Hub, Peter Jacobs, £2.00. Portrait Gallery, London.Other paintings Pottery in the city in about 1800. The mug The exhibition will be free of charge and The ‘happiness industry’ would have us goes as far as to say: “’Happy Hour’ is a For further information about what’s on show will include After Trafalgar by shows ‘Lord Nelson Engaging the Toulon open between 10:00 and 16:00 Mondays think so…’‘Happy Hour’ succeeds a very hilarious hour of physical theatre that weaves coming up at Gala Theatre this month Frank Mason (1907); A Naval Engagement Fleet of the Mouths of the Nile.’ Shauna to Saturdays and between noon and successful 24-performance national tour of a complex and highly detailed path through please head to the aforementioned by Richard Paton (18th century); Admiral Gregg, Exhibitions, Collections and Archives 16:00 on Sunday. ‘That’s Amore’, a pacey, passionate, hilarious comedy, dance, slapstick and drama… website. Lord Collingwood by James Lonsdale Officer at Sunderland Museum, said: COMEDY: COMEDY: SHOE CAKE COMEDY HA-HA HARTLEPOOL CLUB AT MUSICLOUNGE, FESTIVAL AT 0NE77 STOCKTON Written by Sam Dobinson
Written by Stephen Jude On the back of last year’s successful celebration, Hartlepool’s Ha-Ha Festival After a brief duration of rest, of Laughs is back once more and is set Musiclounge in Stockton will be to bring a weekend of hilarity and belly- continuing its hosting of the Shoe aching laughter to Hartlepool’s One77 Cake Comedy Club this July as the This July’s showing will feature to take place too. Shoe Cake states venue this month. Opening the festival’s renowned club returns to showcase Warrington’s acclaimed funniest MC, that it will be providing a tremendous proceedings is young local comedian its comedic legacy, allowing up-and- Barry Heap, to guest host the show, line-up of laughter and, for those who Lauren Pattison who, in 2017, earned a bring his hilarious set to the people of this month is not to be missed. Ha-Ha comedians to test their skills and and Lukas Kirkby, known as one of enjoy a fizzy, alcoholic beverage, a free nomination for best newcomer at the Hartlepool. He’s an accomplished posh- Hartlepool Festival of Laughs will take providing attendees with a night full Manchester’s wittiest comedian due to his glass of Prosecco upon arrival. Tickets Edinburgh Fringe Festival of that year. boy performer who levels the hilarity place at One77 in Hartlepool between of laughter. The decision has been clever song parodies and sharp puns, will are available for £3.00 online by heading Headlining Friday night is Liverpool’s of Jack Whitehall with his material of Friday 20th and Sunday 22nd July. made internally to redesign the entire end the night. Throughout the evening, a to connect.jokepit.com or they will be Paul ‘Silky’ White who has earned great middle-class tales, even warning “a lot of Weekend tickets are priced at £25.00 dynamic of their ‘First Thursday of the plethora of comedians will take residence available on the night (if there are any critical acclaim throughout his career my material isn’t very relatable!” per person and single day passes are month’ routine as Shoe Cake will now in Musiclounge in Stockton, with names tickets left) for £5.00. This Shoe Cake with the Guardian stating: “White is Closing the festival on Sunday night priced at £10.00 per person. Tickets be encouraging established comedy such as AJ Hill, Andrew Flood, Stephen Comedy Club takes place on Thursday a massively engaging guitar-playing is Northern Irish comic, Martin Mor. are available to purchase online at acts to make their appearance each Armstrong, Chris McGlade and even 5th July and has an 18+ age restriction. stand-up whose instinctive rapport With over 30 years of experience as a ticketsource.co.uk. month - this will include the established more to be announced in due course. Doors open at 19:00, the first act will with audiences makes him welcome professional performer on the UK circuit, All funds raised from this event will be acts playing both regurgitated These acts will be consistent with the be on stage at 20:00, and the night is wherever he goes.”As for Saturday Martin has established himself as one of used to support Families First and the remainders of old material as well as themes of improvisation and stand-up expected to finish up at approximately night’s headliner, comedian, musician the UK’s most popular and in-demand great work they do supporting children entirely new material. comedy, not to forget potential parodies 22:30. and presenter Tom Houghton is set to comedians and his performance at One77 with additional needs.
20 21 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER STAGE: THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG AT THEATRE ROYAL, NEWCASTLE ON NOW Written by Sam Dobinson
Hailed as “a gut-busting hit” by the Schulze-Mittendorff Maria ©WSM Art – Walter New York Times, ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ is en route from the West-End go.” Now playing in Newcastle, ‘The Play Pan through amateurism and personal and Broadway to Newcastle’s illustrious That Goes Wrong’ has enjoyed four years rivalries. This brilliantly funny comedy is Theatre Royal, arriving in the North East of success playing in the West-End and has not to be missed and its run here in the THEN AND NOW early this month. The multi-award-winning earned a range of coveted theatre awards. North East this month is guaranteed to smash hit comedy returns to Newcastle In 2015, the comedy production earned bring a night full of belly-aching laughter THE MUST-SEE EXHIBITION CELEBRATING a year on from its sell-out success in the title of Olivier Award winner for Best - be sure to buy tickets while you can. 500 YEARS OF ANDROIDS AND ROBOTS. January 2017. Written by Henry Lewis, New Comedy and most recently earned ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ runs at Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields of a Tony Award for Best Scenic Design of a Newcastle’s Theatre Royal from Monday INCLUDED IN YOUR TICKET Mischief Theatre Company, ‘The Play That Play in 2017. Mischief Theatre Company 2nd - Saturday 7th July. Goes Wrong’ remains remarkably true additionally wrote the comedy Peter Pan Tickets, starting at £21.00 per person, DEVELOPED BY to its name. The 1920’s murder mystery Goes Wrong which hit London’s beloved can be purchased online at theatreroyal. has earned celebrity endorsements from Apollo Theatre in the winter of 2015. The com or by contacting the Theatre Royal the likes of Joanna Lumley: “We laughed premise synonymous to their production Box Office on 0844811212. Just to until the tears ran down our faces, it has of ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’, featuring note: the performance contains loud to be seen” to Ant & Dec: “The funniest the original cast reprising similar roles explosions. Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4EP life.org.uk show we’ve seen! If you can get a ticket, destructing the J.M Barrie classic Peter STAGE: THE AUDIT AT ARC, STOCKTON
Written by Stephen Jude
There’s a shadow coming from across the seas and it is imposing terror and fear. The vultures are circling overhead, the wolves are snaring and howling, and the question that must be asked is… Theatre as they present ‘The Audit’ – a ‘The Audit’ is priced uniquely in that, how can we weather this storm? story telling how a nation raised their upon booking tickets online, obligatory The global economy is in a hideous voices to protest the true value of money payment is only after the end of the mess; with the recent crash came the and the human cost of greed. Using act and the price is subjective to your powerful outbound tides that, along original text, performance, film, music and feelings and experience for the act. with taking the life of the seas, have animation, ‘The Audit’ is about finding Proto-Type Theatre’s ‘The Audit’ will also taken away the hope of our people. strength, overcoming a world designed be revealing their political commentary The pockets have become redundant to keep us docile, and how collective at ARC in Stockton on Tuesday 10th whilst the products abundant. The rich power can move a mountain. This July. The production will begin at 19:00 and elite are affected the least, and contemporary politics-examining play and seating is on an unreserved basis. there is no sign of finance trickling is Proto-Type’s second theatrical work, Advance tickets can be booked online down the ladder. The middle class are following previous hit ‘A Machine they’re at arconline.co.uk following their squeezed, the poor are suffocating.This Secretly Building’ which was, to quote The “Pay What You Decide” scheme. The month, ARC in Stockton will feature a Guardian: “A smartly intelligent hour-long play will also be British Sign Language magnificent commentary by Proto-Type whizz through the world of surveillance.” interpreted.
22 NE VOLUME ARTIST SPOTLIGHT NE VOLUME BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
ARTISTSPOTLIGHT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT “There’s so much positivity around BACKSTREET STUDIO “We can cater for any scenario, from solo SAINTS OF WAR the North East scene” REDCAR acoustic acts & MC’s to complex band setup”
Written by Rebecca Price Excitingly, Saints of War are just one of When reflecting on the past few years Written by Sam Dobinson The Approved, Krome and The Wainstones, service and ability to maintain a relaxed nearly thirty bands playing the fifth annual of performing locally, they say: “There’s to name just a few.” Along with his environment throughout hire - a factor More bands need to introduce Smithfest in Hartlepool on Saturday 21st a lot more support for artists these Backstreet Studio is a recording and qualifications in Computer Science, Music that is sure to please owner Jonny Phage themselves with a rallying cry: ‘The high July this year, with more names still to be days; there’s so much positivity around rehearsal facility hidden away down Technology and Production, Jonny Phage as he strives to maintain exactly that. chiefs of heavy metal! The bringers of announced online. the North East scene - everyone wants a rather quaint alleyway behind is a working musician. He has for several Other clients have praised Backstreet destruction! The Saints of War!’ is a The £4.00 entry fee guarantees a everyone to succeed’. The Cleveland Hotel - just north of years played in an array of bands, as well as Studio for the range of first-rate much more exciting description than glorious full-day musical pub crawl from Saints of War are, as they say, “always” Redcar’s historic town centre. For the working on solo projects - both original and equipment available to make use of the usual ‘well, we play mostly originals The Clarendon (main stage) to The working on new music, and have past four years, Backstreet Studio has tributes. As a musician, Jonny is completely during recordings and rehearsals. One with a few covers…’. Hops & Cheese (acoustic stage) to the promised that some of their newest been providing quality recording and conscious of the creative processes involved client praised the studio firmly and Saints of War is a heavy rock four- Corporation Club, where Saints of War songs will be introduced at their rehearsal services, and in most recent in making great music, and as well as aiming stated: “Brilliant place to rehearse. Loads piece hailing from Middlesbrough. will be headlining the Heavy Stage. upcoming gigs: “The hope is by our years, have begun to offer PA hire to to provide top quality recordings and of space to dance around, full drum kit Playing together since 2012 (although Having also headlined the festival in Halloween show in Saltburn we will those throughout the region.I spoke to services, he also aims to provide a relaxed and other bits I don’t understand that vocalist Michael is still the new boy, previous years, they’re keen to come back have a full album recorded and ready Backstreet Studio owner Jonny Phage to and comfortable environment for his clients look awesome. Also, they have very having joined in 2016), they regularly again for 2018: “Every year we do this it to launch”. Apart from that, their main find out more about exactly what the to get the best from themselves in their friendly staff!” To find out more key gig across the North East with their has been a blast, and this year’s going to plan for the future is simply that: “we studio has to offer: “The studio has two musical endeavours. Backstreet Studio information regarding Backstreet Studio ‘unique sound’ of ‘melodic vocals be no different,” they said. just want to be on stage doing what we rehearsal rooms, both fully equipped offers two fantastic rehearsal rooms which in Redcar, and to take a closer look at combined with driving riffs, punchy bass As well as their own set, they recommend do best”. Further details for Saints of with drum kits, bass & guitar amps, and allow you to practice without breaking the the fantastic facilities on offer, as well lines, and belting drums’. seeing ‘all the bands on the Heavy Stage’, War and their upcoming appearances a vocal PA with microphones. The main bank and splashing too much cash. Priced as the studio’s recording prices and They draw on a mix of rock influences particularly League of Souls (“one of can be found on Facebook and on rehearsal room doubles as the recording at just £10.00 per hour, rehearsal rooms going rates, follow their social media (‘Zakk Wylde, Rush, Queen, Disturbed our favourite bands to play with - they their website at www.saintsofwar. room, along with a separate isolation include a full backline of quality equipment account on Facebook via facebook.com/ all would be up there’) and so find are amazing”), Krome (“[they] were net – check out the video for their room which can be used for recording and as previously mentioned by the owner BackstreetRecordingStudio. Backstreet that they get compared to many on before us last year and went down most recent single ‘Alone In The Dark’ drums or vocals. We record through an himself, they each feature a vocal PA, two Studio is also available to contact via different bands, although Alterbridge a treat…that will be a set not to be online. analogue/digital hybrid mixing desk into guitar amps, a bass amp and a choice of email on [email protected] and Shinedown tend to be some of the missed”) and Lee Etherington over the For Smithfest, all information can be either Logic Pro or Cubase and have a two drum kits. Over the past few years, or by calling the studio directly on the most commonly mentioned. road on the Acoustic Stage (“Lee has found on their Facebook and Twitter dedicated listening room to help with Backstreet Studio has established a solid telephone number: 07883 340494. They have built a strong name for been a massive supporter of us as people (@smithfestUK) where you can mixing and mastering. We can cater for reputation as one of the region’s finest If you have any questions regarding the themselves for their live performances as well as Saints as a band, so it will be find the full list of acts playing too. If any scenario, from solo acoustic acts recording and rehearsing facilities and has equipment and facilities that Backstreet across the area – not just the standard nice to see him back on stage”). you’ve been to Smithfest before then & MC’s to complex band setups. Past earned its fair share of regular clients. Studios has available then please do get list of rock-friendly pubs, but (according There’s a great positivity and community you know that it’s an event that you clients have included such musicians as With an impressive history of great online in touch via the aforementioned contact to recent Facebook videos) also the spirit around Smithfest, but the band feel really can’t miss – especially if you call Kerrianne Covell, BreMusiq, The Magick reviews, the studio’s fantastic facilities have details and the Backstreet Studios team occasional biker rally. that isn’t something unique to one festival. yourself a North East music lover. Godmothers, The Likkor Men, MC Banks, led many to commend Backstreet’s quality will be more than happy to help you.
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Photography by Daniel Stark
DURHAM BRASS FESTIVAL 2018 - 13TH - 22ND JULY-
Written by Sam Dobinson during the war years and beyond. Original City Centre resounds to the sound of Ivy Benson band member Chrissy Lee Brass with the ever-popular Streets of County Durham’s annual music festival brings her dynamic all-female big band Brass. Street bands from Spain, Serbia celebrating the diverse world of brass featuring many of the UK’s leading female and France will be joined by leading UK is back once more as Durham Brass jazz stars to salute Ivy’s pioneering spirit. bands for two days of high energy and Festival 2018 returns for a ten-day The performance will also include internet brilliant music making on Saturday 21st programme of outstanding music with sensation and Swedish Jazz trumpet and Sunday 22nd July between 11:00 and world-renowned artists. 2018’s festival star Gunhild Carling whose high energy 17:00. Be sure to check them out whilst welcomes a celebration of women and performances and remarkable multi- walking through the city centre! For brass, exploring brass as a genre at instrument videos have been viewed those coming into Durham from outside the cutting edge through live looping millions of times on YouTube. This event the city, Park and Ride is available into technology. Festival-goers can also will take place on Monday 13th July at Durham City Centre: Monday – Saturday, expect the premiere of a new suite 19:00 at Durham’s Gala Theatre. Adult 7am-7pm, and is priced at £2.00 (under inspired by Quentin Blake’s magnificent tickets are priced at £18.00 per person 16s free) per day ticket. Buses also run illustrations for Roald Dahl’s BFG. Now and it’s £16.00 for concessions. Over the every 10 minutes. Please contact 0191 in its twelfth year of existence, Durham years, Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band 374 1702 for more information on the Brass festival is poised to showcase has established themselves as one of the matter. Durham is ‘Totally Brass’ this July a range of ‘international street bands top-ranked Brass bands in the world. The and the county’s annual festival of brass from France, Spain, the US and Serbia band has held multiple illustrious titles, is one not to miss. Events often sell out going head to head in parks across the from European Champions, National quickly so please book in advance to county in this year’s Big Brass Bash, as Champions, British Open Champions, BBC avoid disappointment. Durham Brass well as creating a party atmosphere in Best of Brass Champions to representing Festival 2018 is held between Friday 13th Durham City during the ever-popular England at the World Championships July and Sunday 22nd July and is located Streets of Brass on Saturday 21st and in Holland. The Carlton Main Frickley across various venues local to the county Sunday 22nd July. Opening the festival Colliery will entertain the Gala Theatre of Durham. Tickets are sold individually and paying homage to the women of on Sunday 22nd July at 19:00. Adult tickets for each event. Ticketed event prices brass, is a celebration in tribute of the are priced at £18.00 per person and it’s begin at £16.00, however, there are legendary bandleader, Ivy Benson. Her £16.00 for concessions.A key feature of plenty of free events across the city. all-female band overcame scepticism Durham Brass Festivals are their free To find out more information about the and prejudice to become one of the street performances and this year is no festival and to purchase tickets, head most popular and famous dance bands exception! Durham’s World Heritage Site over to brassfestival.co.uk.
26 NE VOLUME MAIN FEATURE // WATERFRONT FESTIVAL 2018 NE VOLUME MAIN FEATURE // WATERFRONT FESTIVAL 2018
begins in earnest.This year, festival One of our favourite aspects of 2017’s organisers have ensured that there’s festival was the small pockets of hidden something for every taste by producing experiences, such as the Travelling a range of different zones with various Treasury, a caravan with a theatre show activities taking place in each area. The inside. For 2018, the programme looks first, the MainMast Stage, is where we’ll fit to bursting with theatre, sculpture After storming September last year see the likes of The Lake Poets, FIKA, and outdoor live art. Not only can we with a bumper line-up of music, arts and Samantha Durnan, Eve Conway and James expect a packed programme of artist-led culture, and gaining a prestigious ‘Best Leonard Hewitson take to the stage workshops in the Arts Beach, which saw Event Teesside’ nomination in the annual to serenade the days away. Alongside artists directly engage with over 2160 Journal Culture Awards that landed this these popular music acts, there’ll be the children in 2017, but their Quarterdeck spring, Hartlepool Waterfront Festival ever-popular band North Road, as well programme promises to set imaginations is back for its second outing, with the as Hartlepool perennials in the form of alight with what’s on offer. Whether it’s theme ‘Oh, I Do Like To Be’. After seeing Channy Thompson, Sparkle and Miss a 30-foot inflatable sperm whale, or a the line-up, we know exactly where you’ll Toni’s Academy. solar-powered cinema, a selection of want to be this month. theatre taking place in caravans, or a Building on last year’s street food market, pair of giant seagulls there’s sure to be On Friday 20th July, Hartlepool Borough Hartlepool Council have hand-selected something for everyone in this maritime Council has put together a miniature a group of the best street food sellers arts extravaganza. outdoor film festival, with classics such as that the North has to offer. From Seaton Finding Nemo and the Goonies screened to Sunderland, from Teesside to Tyneside, Local artist, Diane Watson, as well as alongside a piece from Hollywood legend the line-up is sure to satisfy even the Bloomin Art, have been commissioned and former CCAD student, Sir Ridley most discerning taste-buds. On top of to produce artwork alongside areas of Scott. Grab a picnic and a cushion and get that, this year they’ve curated spoken- the community to ensure that the festival yourself to Hartlepool Waterfront to see word, acoustic music, and even epic Drag feels part of the Tees Valley, whilst also Boy and Bicycle on the big screen! Theatre-Makers Bonnie and the Bonettes ensuring that art can be for all, in any as their comperes. If you haven’t seen context and in any form. Whether it’s Following the Friday Film Fest, the their smash-hit first show, ‘Drag Me To food, cabaret, music or visual art – there’s festival officially opens on Saturday Love’, then think divas, glitter and neon something for everyone. with a procession from festival friends wigs. Alongside Bonnie and Co. we’re ‘SIRF’ who are arriving in the town to also looking forward to catching Sarah Hartlepool Waterfront Festival will take wiggle, shake and shimmy in a dance and Crutwell, spoken word poet, and Ladies place along the water’s edge between costume extravaganza as they open the of Midnight Blue with their Afro-Latin Friday 20th and Sunday 22nd July. Entry festival with a mini-procession across the percussion and club-like drum rhythms. to the festival is free to the public and no site. And following their grand opening, ticket is required. the Waterfront Festival programme
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Photography by Dan Graham
RICHMOND LIVE 2018 SUMMERTYNE AMERICANA - 3RD - 4TH AUGUST - - AT THE SAGE, 20TH - 22ND JULY -
Written by Samantha Hall say, is history.” Since then, the festival has the mix, with his other project Ronald Written by Rebecca Price Merchant, Sam Alladio, Striking Matches, is available indoors at the Concourse blossomed into something to be incredibly Raygun, and it’s tipped to be a pretty Sarah Darling, Iris DeMent, Davina & The stage: acts include Wandering Hearts, Returning for its 20th year, Richmond proud of - an enthusiasm-filled family- tidy, tidy day. I’ve been to Richmond Live We’re now in July so that can only Vagabonds, Kelly Willis and Emily Barker. The Often Heard, Mel Greggain, and Live is back this summer with another esque event that really brings organisers, before and proper soaked it up with mean one thing – the SummerTyne The all-standing SummerTyne Lounge also Georgie – you’ve also got the chance cracking line-up. Running from the 3rd festival-goers and acts together. I spoke plenty of good music kicking around Americana Festival is back. The Sage in offers some bumper double bill shows – to catch The Rosellys and Arkansas to the 4th of August on the banks of with Matthew Fisher from Darlington and lots of energy from the audience so Gateshead will once again be hosting Robert Vincent Music and Yola Carter on Dave again, this time in the guaranteed the river Swale in North Yorkshire, this band The Circus Villains who are set to hopefully, we can get our own little slice the year’s biggest celebration of the Friday night, and Holly Macve and Jade warm and dry. However, there have been year sees main headliners Jaya The Cat play Richmond Live this August. When of Richmond Live pie.” When speaking American roots, blues, country, folk, Bird on the Saturday. Tickets are priced promises that even more acts are due to and Tom Hingley And The Kar-Pets take asked about how they’re looking forward to Andy Brown about the festival in its and even some of those other purely individually depending on the act and seat, be announced – their Twitter page (@ to the stage alongside a vast range of to the festival and getting to perform current state and what to expect this American musical genres which give but multi-buy discounts become available if SummerTyne) is the best place to see other talented acts from the North among old friends and new he said: “The year, he told me that: “After 18 years, the you a sudden overwhelming craving for you buy tickets for two or more Sage One the new names as they get announced. East and beyond. From The Hoosiers lineup is pretty tasty and full of bands and team took a year off in 2017 for some barbeque pulled pork or Cajun spiced or Sage Two performances. Some years, The festival feeling spreads beyond the to Funeral For A Friend, Richmond Live artists that we know. We’re good friends well needed R&R which means that chicken wings. As usual, the weekend it’s worth picking the band with the best music – the whole surroundings of the has seen a good few acts grace their with Ceiling Demons and really enjoy this year they are celebrating 20 years (Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd July) is name even if you’ve never heard them play Sage will be filled with craft stalls, family stages over the years. Organised and their stuff…I like a Hip-Hop band with a & 20 shows. There will also be a few packed full of top-notch trans-Atlantic before – my personal choice would be Big activities and foodie offerings over the ran by music-loving volunteers, the first bit of grittiness and some live instruments. new aspects to the show and a fantastic musicians, including some big-draw Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys, who play with weekend. Get your skates on (or your ever Richmond Live was held on 26th We’re also surrogate children to Black local and not so local line-up. Friday ticketed events in the main halls and Charley Crockett on the Friday night. specially imported custom-made leather September 1998 and has been running Sheep Frederick Dickens’ frontman, Dave headliners are USA/Amsterdam punk auditoriums, and also not one but two Veteran local roots music promoters cowboy boots, if you prefer) and head pretty much ever since. Speaking to Saunders, and will be lovely for us to play reggae band Jaya The Cat and Saturday free showcase stages to pick from. Jumpin’ Hot Club will once again be down between Friday afternoon and Richmond Live team member Andy at the same festival – it’s a family day out, will see Holy Moly & The Crackers, There are two famous names topping hosting the free outdoor stage of the same Sunday night, over the 20-22nd July Brown, he told me: “In the summer of truly. Another act we’re dead looking Tom Hingley (Inspiral Carpets) & The the bill too; Friday is an evening with name – grab your spot on the hill early weekend. Tickets for each of the main 1998, Mike Jinks was at a meeting of a forward to is Tom Hingley and his tribute Karpets, Ceiling Demons and Martin Graham Nash, showcasing his 50-plus as this is always popular, possibly just for acts can be bought directly from the community-working group (a council-led to the original Inspiral Kar-pets. ‘Joe’ by Stephenson gracing the stages on the year career from The Hollies through the fantastic views of the Quayside alone. Sage website and Box Office, but the box-ticking exercise) and was bewailing the band has been one of our touring glorious banks of the river Swale. This is to Crosby, Stills & Nash (& Young) and Acts playing over the three days include rest of the festival is free to enter on all the fact that local bands really had van (hatchback) anthems and lead us on top of a host of up-and-coming and his solo work – he’s also joined by Sam Gibson, Jinski, Portraits and Gem three days. Exact performance times for nowhere to play; the live music scene in safely down many stretches of Britain’s local bands and artistes.” acclaimed folk artist, Shawn Colvin. The Andrewson on the Friday, followed by the free stages will be announced nearer the Richmond was pretty dismal at that motorway. We look forward to seeing Early-bird tickets for the festival are Saturday night promises Steve Earle & Tom Blackwell, The Rosellys (with Rachel to the event – check social media for time and someone at the meeting asked: some other acts such as Spirit Levellers, now on sale at the fabulous price The Dukes, with The Dukes doubling Laven) and Arkansas Dave on Saturday and further details. “If we gave you a venue, Mike, would The Harringtons and The Voluntears, all of £10.00 for the weekend (free for up as opening act The Mastersons. rounding off with CD Wallum trio, Strange For further information about this year’s you be able to organise a festival?” Like of who we’ve played with before. Add under 12s) and can be purchased from Also performing in Sage One and Two Blue Dreams, Hymn For Her and Curse event, and for all enquiries, please also a fool, he said yes, and the rest, as they our very own guitarist Sam Kennedy to richmondlive.org. across the weekend will be Natalie of Lono on Sunday. Even more free music head to sagegateshead.com.
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SHAMU
“We try to make headphone candy” North East electronic alt-pop outfit Shamu straight away it needed his flow on it. When life. His studio, The Grain in Newcastle, is a are set to release their debut EP this month we played Evo Emerging last year we asked really cool space so it’s just a pleasure to go so Lee Allcock caught up with the band to him to guest on that track and he did and there with him and explore that process. talk about the release, experimentation, and it was sick. When it came to recording the Recording the EP was an exciting back and Northern Electric Festival. track for the EP, it was a no-brainer to get forth of ideas between everyone. him in the studio with us. You’re set to release your debut EP on You’re set to play Northern Electric Festival Friday 20th July, so what can listeners expect ‘Up In Arms’ is also a politically-charged this month, so what can gig-goers expect from it in terms of its sound and lyrical release, so can we expect the EP to be from your set? Will you be playing the EP in content? politically-focused too? full for example? We’ve spent a lot of time exploring and That song is definitely the most politically We will indeed be playing the EP in full as experimenting whilst making this record; direct on the EP – it’s a much more well as some new songs. We’ve spent a lot we’ve tried a lot of new ideas and they’ve outward observation compared to the of time working on how we portray these come together to make something both others. songs live and we love doing it. We’re really expansive and focused. It’s electronic but it’s excited to be part of Northern Electric human. Lyrically, it’s about having to let go of Having listened to the EP, it sounds like Festival again and we haven’t played any something that isn’t good for you, whether you’ve experimented a lot with the drum shows in a little while so it’s going to be it’s your choice or not. It starts off in a place sounds and synthesisers. What was the worth seeing. of desperation and is a journey to a different reason behind that? way of seeing something. We really love exploring new sounds and And finally, what else do you have coming when it comes to production we get a lot up in 2018 that your fans can get excited ‘Up In Arms’, a track we’ve recently played of ideas from hip-hop and electronic music. about? on the NE Volume radio show, features a We try to make headphone candy with We will be heading back to The Grain to verse from Hip Hop/ R&B artist, Sågaboi. loads of little details and interesting textures. record some new stuff, possibly an album. What was it like working with Sågaboi? And We’ve been writing lots since finishing the how did that come about? You worked with producer James Haselhurt EP and we’re excited to see how that takes Us working together was a really good on the new release. What was that like? And shape in the studio. experience for everyone involved. We’d did he give you any advice? played a show together when we were both We’ve worked with James on everything To listen to Shamu’s debut EP, head to just starting out and when we wrote the we’ve recorded so he has an incredible soundcloud.com/shamuisaband on Friday beat and bass line for ‘Up In Arms’, we knew sense of what will make our songs come to 20th July.
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DRENGE DEL AMITRI “Life is so short and you should use your life as fully as you can” “We’ve probably got an album’s worth of material written” It’s been almost three years since we last you and live fully in the moment. In track, each time making slight adjustments Formed in Glasgow in 1983, Del Amitri if there was still an audience? yourself for new material? heard new music from Sheffield-based particular, the song is about when we to the tech. Style-wise, I know we used has released four Top 10 albums and a Not really, no. We just decided the time Not at all. Ian is quite keen on the idea, as sonic pioneers, Drenge. Following a tour were at a friend’s wedding and just let a lot of drive effects pedals to create a string of memorable hit singles including was right. In some ways, not having a new am I, but we’d only put something out if of the country earlier this year, the band ourselves go on the dancefloor - we don’t sound which felt like a buzzsaw or an ‘Nothing Ever Happens’, ‘Always The Last album to tour, and the extra pressures it sounded good and if we thought there arrives back with new single ‘This Dance’, normally dance. More importantly, this is a animal. These were the sounds which we To Know’ and ‘Roll To Me’. Returning that come with promotion, really helped was value. itself an explosive piece of experimental song about the unnecessary manoeuvres felt would grab people’s attention and from a hiatus in 2014, the band continues us to focus on the live show. rock. Damian Robinson caught up Eoin we often make in life which we do to have a feeling of a really horrible nightclub, to sporadically tour and release new Where do you see Del Amitri fitting into Loveless to find out more about ‘This make others feel happy. Sometimes it’s the type of place where you may actually material as and when they chose to do So what’s the motive for the tour this today’s music scene? Dance’, the possibilities of a new album worth remembering that life is so short lose your inhibitions. so. Damian Robinson caught up with year? To be honest, we never felt like we fitted and the next steps for the band. and you should use your life as fully as frontman Justin Currie to talk about their It felt like a good time to get out on the in with any particular scene - and we’re you can without playing a dance to make There’s plenty of images and noise new tour and the band’s future. road, plus we got a good offer where we probably the same now. We were inspired Your new single, ‘This Dance’, is an others feel okay. suggesting you’ve been hard at work in would play a shortish tour in places we by the Postcard crowd, like Orange Juice explosive way to return to the music the studio working on a new album. Is I was just thinking that it’s almost 20 years enjoy playing. Ian, and the rest of the band, and Aztec Camera, but as a band, we scene: it’s an intense-sounding record, and The video is pretty spectacular as well…it that true? to the day since I saw you at Whitley Bay was available so we thought why not. morphed a few times – we were initially possibly even the most intense sound to looks like some crazy Chemical Brothers There’s certainly new music being made, for the BBC live tour… quite a melancholic band and then we come from Drenge to date. Where did style of imagery… yes. It feels a little like we’re playing four- Ha, ha. Yes, it would be. We did a few of There’s a rumour that there will be some moved into being more poppy. We were the idea for the track come from? Perhaps in the past, we’ve been too pure dimensional chess at the moment though those in the 90s and we were usually new material for the tour? too soft for grunge and too early for It was bizarre how the song came about, and sterilised when it comes to our as we’ve been away for a while and hungover. We’ve probably got an album’s worth of Britpop so we were our own entity I to be honest. We don’t normally write videos and visual presentation. After our there seems to be a few more hoops to material written but we’re not sure if it’ll guess. material on a computer, but for some time away we felt like we wanted to come jump through. Streaming has also totally And then I saw you at Newcastle City ever get released. There are some ideas reason Rory wrote his drum part directly back and be more experimental, both changed. When we went away music fans Hall on the last tour, ‘The A to Z of Us of releasing an album on vinyl, but again I always felt you were quite similar to the onto software and we ended up building musically and visually. were streaming but not the general public Tour’. That was such a great show – it was these are just thoughts at the minute. Lemonheads in that regard... the track around the drums, which we – now, everyone’s streaming. It’s good to absolutely packed out with great songs… We’re certainly planning to rehearse 1 Wow, that’s a compliment - thanks. I’m did using the software. When it came There’s a really interesting guitar sound see but it just means we’re taking baby Thank you. We were apprehensive when or 2 new tracks and see if we can make a great fan of that band. He’s a brilliant to recording the track though, we re- on ‘This Dance’ which I couldn’t figure steps as we try to understand everything. we came back in 2014; we came back on them sound good live and if they do, we’ll songwriter. recorded the drum part with live drums, out how it was created. What guitar are quite a large tour and were nervous if probably play them on the tour, if they so the track almost came full circle. you playing and what effects are you ‘This Dance’ is available now. You can anyone would come to the shows. As it don’t, then they may not make it. Del Amitri plays Newcastle City Hall using? see Drenge live this summer at Deer happened, the tour went really well and on Friday 20th July. Tickets, priced from What’s the ‘dance’ you talk about? Off the top of my head, it’s hard to Shed Festival. For more information we settled back in easily. £41.50 in advance, are available from I suppose the dance could be any remember exactly what we used and check out www.drenge.co.uk and theatreroyal.co.uk. moment where you forget what’s around when. We did about three versions of that deershedfestival.com. So the motive was to come back and see So you’re not placing any pressure on
34 35 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS TOFT HOUSE
THE HOME OF UNPOPULAR MUSIC
2 August
(blues band)
18 August + friends
22 September + Pete Davies
6 October feat. Oilbirds + Punk Buddha
7 October WANT TO ADVERTISE IN “Two Little Ducks” A powerful, personal and political spoken word journey. BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL 20 October + Sam Slatcher
"The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” 11 November The Armistice Tour loudest crowd out there" GET YOUR GIG OR BUSINESS OUT THERE Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite EDDY GARTRY 17 November + Avril McCall Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, CONTACT LEE AT caught up with him. and touring. @7.30pm (doors 7pm) - MLT Club, The Avenue, Linthorpe, TS5 6SA [email protected] “I haven’t played close to home [Thornaby] for over 30 years” You’re bringing your ‘Here You Are - the Best of Tour’ to You’ve just released your debut album, so what kind of reception [email protected] www.mltmiddlesbrough.org.uk/studio BluesGateshead. artists As Eddy your Gartry most is recent set to albumplay ‘Heretunes You Are’that havefocuses made thesehas itnights received shine. so far? than a pint of real ale when he got there! Toftboth House on the in songs Middlesbrough that have withinfluenced his you and the songs Really great. There has Thebeen Feelgood’s so much positivewere all feedbackgood-humoured and it’s Werewolvesthat have become of Powys, your so greatest Lee Allcock hits what canYou’ll we beexpect playing at Toft Housegreat to in hear which songscharacters. are personal Wilko favourites.is a born entertainer, I’m really caughtfrom the up show?with him to talk about his Middlesbrough, so what happycan gig-goers that people haveeven understood at home. where He’s bright, I’m coming frank andfrom very with favouriteI always playever as gig many and more.of the hits live as I can.expect When fromyou are your set? it, with the themes of heartbreakfunny at times. and Gypieacceptance Mayo andwas maturity.the vastly lucky enough to have had quite a few hits you must accept Our fans will hear some fantastic lead under-rated guitarist that took Wilko’s that the fans want to hear them and I like playing them. I will The tour sees you stopping at many different UK cities...are alsoWhat be do doing you learna few about songs yourself off the ‘Herefrom You Are’guitar album, playing but from as our specialthere any guest, places and you haven’tplace. He’sbeen a before? truly amazing and devoted theplaying album the reachedblues? And No. what 4 in does the charts,the the fansDutch know guitar them virtuoso, as MichaI’m really Sprenger. looking forwardguitar to playerplaying who at The was Cluny a life-long having blues heard wellblues as mean the olderto you? ones. Plus, there’ll be some explosiveso many and great things aboutadvocate. that Gypievenue! didNewcastle a long spell is a withbeautiful the It’s my source of inspiration, a simple unique drumming from Paulcity. I‘Animal’ played a Sofar SoundsYardbirds there too. last They year seemed which was like incredible. reserved Youroute seem to my to inner-self really enjoy and beinga constant on stage and Recchia.performing There’ll live. be a mixture of old and men to me: well-educated, civil and polite. Issource playing of livelearning. your Blues favourite music part is of being a musician?new material with someDo songs you from think you’ll tryChris do any Farlowe touristy told things the audiencewhilst on thatthe tour? Iabout really communication, enjoy playing live. fraternity When andI am on the stagethe new hearing albums the played alongsideWell we hada large a good lookhe’d around never heardon our anybody last tour perform so this timea Bob compassioncrowd sing along- that tomeans the songseverything it’s a to great feeling.selection When of Iblues-rock give numbers.we will have There’ll to visit someDylan different song as attractions. well as our We band visited did. me.out to the audience and they give back it makesbe two a fantastic sets: one on acousticQueensferry instruments in Edinburgh last time we played which was night where we can all forget about our troublesand a andset onfor electric a guitars,beautiful. drums We etc. haven’t I actuallyAnd finally, been towhat the else Angel do ofyou the have North, coming so You’vecouple playedof hours across have the fun. world, I like but to makewhat it a partyhaven’t vibe. played close to homewill have [Thornaby] to take a trip upup inthere 2018 this that time your around! fans can get excited has been your favourite gig to date and for over 30 years! about? why?You tend to bring your tours to the North East of England Your music career has Twohad somenew albums pretty areamazing on the moments way this so year, far, There’squite a lot.been What a few. do Singing you enjoy with thethe most aboutWhat the memories ‘up north’ from workingbut what with would Tony you saywith is your one electricfavourite and moment one acoustic. to date? They’ll crowd? My favourite moment is getting playlisted on BBC Radio 1 just Doctor Hook band in Holland - they’re McPhee, Dr.Feelgood, Yardbirds and Chris include blues and original songs. The It’s just a great crowd. I must say, the North East crowd must because I felt so happy that lots of people like me were going to beall greatthe loudest blues enthusiasts crowd out despite there. their Farlow do you cherish thebe listeningmost? to my music!band’s It was second an amazing visit to feeling. Edinburgh Festival many pop hits. Another would be playing Tony McPhee told me that he had to and our annual visit to Europe will be Finally,in an English what pubdoes with the Tony immediate McPhee future bringteach for you John and Lee can Hooker Finally,how to is sign there his anything special you want too! to say to the people coming we(Groundhogs) look forward and to Gypie some Mayo new (Doctor material in 2017?own autographs - that’s toan seeimpressive you? IFeelgood) have a full – yearthey’re of bothtouring great the blues world, but I amaccolade. making John time Lee couldn’tYou’re write in forback a funin night!Eddy There Gartry’s will be Werewolves sing-songs andof Powys some plays toguitarists. write newIt was songs the firstfor an time album they’d to be releasedthe earlyin 2018. 60’s. Tony’s a quiet,swearing, thoughtful but you’ll haveToft a greatHouse time! in Middlesbrough on Thursday played together and that was very special. and intelligent man with an explosive 2nd August. Tickets, priced at £8.00 SupportingTickets, priced the Muddybetween Waters £24.19 band - £48.38, takes areguitar available style from and a real bluesTickets, voice. priced He had at £7.70advance, (including are booking available fee), by headingare available to the somesagegateshead.com. beating too, as does the many gigs a love for cryptic crosswordfrom puzzlesthecluny.com. on Facebook event page. Tickets on the door I did in Africa. It’s always been the blues the way to gigs and loved nothing more are priced at £10.00.
36 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS
FORTUNES SONS WILL SIMPSON “After a long time out we decided that music “The original aim was to create a safe space for people to come was always our greatest hobby”” along and immerse themselves in music” Newcastle three-piece rock band, Fortunes Stu: I couldn’t agree more. Nearly 15 years together for a couple of years but never From busking in Middlesbrough to immerse themselves in music - free from was a wise age! So I’m trying to work on Sons, return after quite a lengthy hiatus of making music together and we needed pulled it out, so we really ran hard with it producing music in New York, Will the push and drive of the outside. that in a non-selfish kind of way. so Lee Allcock caught up with the band to get it back, so we got in touch with Hans this time. Simpson has done it all. Lee Allcock to find out why they’re returning, to talk and got him straight in. caught up with him to talk about his And how are things going with the And finally, how can those who have about their comeback gig, and to see what If you’ve been following the live music scene adventure in the world of music, his project in America? supported you in Middlesbrough keep they make of the current North East music You’re playing your comeback gig at The in the North East, what do you make of the recently released album, and how things I’m still sticking to the dream but up-to-date with what you’re doing in scene. Bridge Hotel in Newcastle on Saturday current scene compared to when you were are going in America. I’m learning much more about the America? complexities of the world and how those I’m always interested in learning about 11th August, so what can old fans and new last playing with Fortunes Sons? You started your musical journey by social problems are created. America what other people are doing to make the For those of our readers who don’t expect from your set? Ross: The current scene is great and the busking for money in Middlesbrough is a pretty big experiment that seems world a better place; the more of those remember Fortunes Sons, how would you Hans: It’s coming together so nicely. We are best part is that there’s a lot of genuine and living on a gipsy site which sounds to be running itself into the ground. I’m people in the network the more strength describe your sound? And has it changed bonding more each week and practises are support out there; people want to see like quite a difficult start to life in the working in schools trying to inspire the we have for positive change. If you want since you were last together? so much fun. people do what they love and want to help world of music. You’re now producing next generation of global citizens to take to get in touch or learn more about my Ross: Our sound has improved a lot Ross: We genuinely look forward to going them do it. music in Brooklyn, New York. That’s some control of the world back from the hands story check out musicsavestheworld. through maturity more than anything. We to the studio each week - it’s always fun. difference… of those old slave masters. info - I would love to hear from you. still have our own very unique sound which We enjoy what we do. We’ve also got 3 And finally, what else do you have coming I had gone to get in touch with my Roma I’m also experimenting with blockchain is a mixture of Journey, Van Haley, Boston new songs ready for the set and, of course, up in 2018 that your fans can get excited roots. The Roma have a bad reputation And you’ve just released your album, technology. There are some cool to Def Leppard - all the bands we grew up we’ll be playing some of our old ones which about? in the UK and Europe – it’s one of the ‘Harmful Melodies’ with Death by Tertris. technological innovations coming out listening to, really. people will remember, with the biggest Ross: We have a lot of plans, some of which last standing acceptable forms of racism. How do you find time for it all? these days for self-releasing musicians. The Stu: Massively so. And with Ross really being ‘Take Me Away’. we can’t say yet - sorry. There will be an I was living there and commuting to Time is all we have; it’s just a matter of future is going to be so radically different. finding his voice now we have got back Academy gig in the New Year to follow Middlesbrough town centre to perform. taking it. (Laughing) That’s some good I’m excited. As I say, if you’re interested, together, it’s brought a brilliant new dynamic How did you actually get back together? with our new album release and then we’ll advice right there. We hear it all our lives. reach out! I’ll be there. to how we play. And were you discussing getting back be heavy gigging in 2019. We hope to see When you were living in Middlesbrough Take your time! I met an 82-year-old you also started a community music Asian man recently who didn’t look a day To find out more about Will, and to keep together for a while? a lot of new people and make a lot of new company called Music Saves the World. over 60 and within the first half hour of up-to-date with his American adventure, You’ve been away from the music scene for Stu: It was a conversation over the phone friends on the road! What was the aim of that project? talking to him he asked me what is the please head to musicsavestheworld.info some time now, so what’s made you come with Ross that made me go and find Hans. The project developed out of what I most important thing in life. I told him, now. Please also head to the website if back? Ross: Yeah, I told him we needed to get back Fortunes Sons play their comeback gig at was seeing on the streets and what I people. He looked at me stern and said you’re interested in sharing your own Ross: After a long time out we decided that on the road and he had two weeks to find The Bridge Hotel in Newcastle on Saturday was exposed to in my work at the youth no! The answer is yourself! You look after personal story or if you’d like to help with music was always our greatest hobby. It was us a drummer – we did it in three days! 11th August. Tickets, priced at £5.00 in centre. The original aim was to create a yourself first and then you are able to be Will’s project. never a job to us - we just love playing. It was great. We had wanted to get back advance, are available from musicglue.com. safe space for people to come along and your best self at all times. This old man
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CATALYSE THE VOLUNTEARS “We plan on continuing to work on releasing lots more music” “We have some great new material on the way” Former NE Volume anniversary party would have liked due to the change in You seem to be out playing live as regularly Durham-based band, The Voluntears, are and being represented by Miller Music persevering in the difficult music business house-band, Catalyse, have had an personnel – although, after a small delay, as possible, but you’ve got an important set to play Richmond Live and Hardwick Management. Owned and ran by the we live in today… interesting year with a new line-up, some we were happy with the single and its show coming up at Sticky Fingers soon. Live this year so Lee Allcock caught wonderful hardworking Carrie Hustler, It’s definitely the hardest but most kick-ass singles and high critical praise. release. Are you looking forward to the show? And up with frontman Seamus Edge to talk she has worked with all the greats like exciting business to be in and it’s With the promise of new music and new what can we expect? about the music industry, perseverance, Sony and EMI Capitol, both in the US difficult – you have to be everywhere and The Voluntears’ world. & London. She even helped execute and sometimes you just can’t be for shows on the horizon, Damian Robinson There was a subtle difference in We always enjoy playing Sticky Fingers as one of the biggest sync deals in music obvious reasons. I think more often caught up with the band to find out more. ‘Hangman’’s sound compared with it’s a really cool little venue and it’s one of For those who don’t know The history - negotiating on behalf of Blur than not most creative people/musicians previous releases…is this an indication of a the few places in Middlesbrough still flying Voluntears, how would you describe and ‘Song2’ – so, hopefully, something don’t understand the true nature of It’s been almost twelve months since we slightly new direction for Catalyse? the flag for live music. We’re excited for your sound? great “WooHoo” wise will happen for the game when starting off. I think that personally spoke last. At the time you were ‘Hangman’ had a different sound as a the Sticky Fingers night and we have some We’re classed as indie/rock/alternative us too. We’re very excited to be working by generating more awareness of all gearing up to play at our 2nd-anniversary result of us experimenting with recording great gigs lined up for the remainder of July. but I’d say it was very much to do with with her and definitely feel like the band the negatives to the industry, the music party. How’ve the past twelve months and mixing techniques. As a band, we It’s an exciting run of gigs. whatever we feel at the time of creating. is moving in the right direction. world would be a more guaranteed kind been? have a very clear idea of the sort of We definitely express ourselves and our of place - there would be more longevity The last 12 months have been interesting. music we want to make but we’re still Finally, what do you hope to achieve for experiences through our music, so it You’re playing both Richmond Live and in other artists which, in turn, allows We now have a new drummer, giving the trying to perfect it in recordings. We the rest of 2018? depends on how we feel at the time, or Hardwick Live this year, so what can them to sustain their career much better. band a new direction, with new influences don’t consciously aim for a certain ‘sound We tend not to set ourselves many whatever circumstance we’ve all been festival-goers expect from your set? and some new ideas. We’ve also worked aesthetic’ when recording but find having ‘goals’, but we’ll be happy to just play as through. A lot more energy, a more polished And finally, what else do you have more on the recording and mixing side a more open and creative approach to much as possible to as many people as set than ever, more artistic talent and coming up in 2018 that your fans can get of things recently and, hopefully, that will things, and simply going with what feels possible. Although, at the same time, we It’s been a little while, so what’s a much bigger performance this year, excited about? pay off with our upcoming releases. We’ve right to us, seems to work. definitely wouldn’t turn down a slot at been happening in the world of The for sure. I think, in general, we want to Recording the new album is always Voluntears? commit to our music 10,000% and hope exciting news I feel. We have some been lucky enough to play some really Leeds fest. We plan on continuing to work It certainly has NE Volume and it’s to engage that right with the audience great new material on the way and we’ll great shows over the last year alongside We’ve seen recent social media posts that on releasing lots more music and overall, good to be back in with yourselves. with more diversity and more surprises. hopefully be signing with a new booking that, and all round it’s been a really positive new music is coming…can you tell us a bit just enjoying playing and working hard to We’ve been working very hard this So far while we’ve been touring, we’ve agent this year to bring with it more year for us. more about what to expect? improve everything we do. year focusing on the right sort of had great success in trying to achieve festivals and more tours. Who that is We are very excited about what we’ve got management, along with writing and that. Even when it’s not some people’s will be revealed, I’m sure, in due course. Recent single, ‘Don’t Bait the Hangman’, planned and we’re taking more care and Catalyse play Middlesbrough’s Sticky creating new material too. So, having cup of tea, we’ve always made a new fan Watch this space. seemed to go down really well with the time on every aspect to make sure we are Fingers on Saturday 21st July. For further said all that, we’re very excited to by the end of the show. critics. You must have been pleased? totally satisfied with it. It’s also given us a information about the gig, and to purchase announce that we have brand new For further information about The Yeah. We were pleased with the response greater ability to bring all of our ideas to tickets, please head to Facebook.com/ management in place and I do believe You’re known for being one of the Voluntears, and to keep up-to-date with to ‘Hangman’ because the recording life in a cohesive and professional way - we Catalyseband and message Catalyse you guys will be the first to know that North East’s most hard-working their tour schedule, head to Facebook. process took a lot longer than what we really hope it’s going be good. personally. we are now currently working with bands, but it must be difficult to keep com/thevoluntears.
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adept in cosmic rock, blues and heavy rock. the rockers were always going to win the Though there are plenty of standout war thanks to their more complex, highly- FEDERAL performances, the star of the show tonight THE personal style of song-writing. Pre-main acts is rhythm guitarist Mark Davies who plays support, Dodgy, provide a fine opening 30 a blinder both with his intricate playing and minutes focused on the songwriting skills CHARM also the energy and motivation he provides WILDHEARTS of Clark, Priest and Miller. Goofy one hit both to the band and the audience. Though wonder indie boys they never were, and it’s nice to see them creeping back into the type at The Cluny 2, Newcastle happy to stand, for most of the evening, of discussions which prompted Ian Broudie tucked away at the back, he’s a player you + Reef + Terrorvision 18/05/2018 to produce their debut. Terrovision claim the can’t keep our eyes off. Tracks of the night + Dodgy at 02 Academy, crown for tonight’s ‘best’ band with a heart- ‘Hercules’ and ‘Silhouette’ both provide a stopping show of energy and a relentless Written and photographed musical texture for frontman Tom Guyer Newcastle set-list. Classic tracks ‘My House’, ‘Alice, What’s by Damian Robinson to provide deeply soulful, blues-styled, the Matter’ and ‘Perseverance’ are played impressive vocals. A combination of local 20/05/2018 with the type of passion uncommon in a Two years since they last played Newcastle, lad Eric Burdon’s back of the throat blues band reaching their thirtieth anniversary. Tony and only a few months away from the and Chris Cornell’s soulful emotion, Guyer’s Written and photographed Wright, half Reservoir dog, half Clockwork release of their first album in a few years, vocal is the key ingredient in ensuring that by Damian Robinson Orange, puts on a show that would justify the it’s nice to see the return of blues-rock lyrics about social injustice and class divide ticket price itself. Reef follows such intensity heroes, Federal Charm – albeit with a land a way which sounds personal rather by cleverly offering a different style of rock different lineup. Hitting us straight off with than preacher-esque. Subtle in their delivery, Just when you think that live music is from out and out blitz. Playing only three a double hitting opener of ‘Swing Sinner’ but forceful in their intent, they play a huge overpriced and out of touch with reality, tracks from their fine new album, the band kudos to the promotional team who put and ‘Hercules’, Federal Charm set their stall part in the identity of the band; as is the focus their attention on the good old boy’s on a lineup team consisting of not just American rock style of their first two albums. out early with an up-tempo Black Crowes Yardbird (Plant and Clapton) styled playing two, but four stellar artists at an affordable Bassist Jack Bessant, seen out earlier in the day meets Led Zeppelin combination of cosmic of lead guitarist Paul Bowe who blends price. Billed as the destruction of Brit-rock, skateboarding on Grey’s monument, provides country rock and blues influenced heavy blues playing with intricate guitar leads. Both perhaps the only faux-paus of the evening the central focus for a fine set list including rock; it’s a winning combination in both ‘Stray’ and ‘Concrete creature’ provide an in its mild suggestion of a nostalgia-only ‘Place Your Hands’ and ‘Come Back Brighter’. its boogie-driven guitar sound and its opportunity for Bowe to cut loose with show, tonight’s real celebration focuses Local lads, The Wildhearts, closed the evening. assertive, working-class hero narrative. inspiring guitar playing. With a new album on the realisation that whilst the poppers If you’ve seen them before you know they Displaying a range of tempos and influences with us soon, it’s worth keeping an eye on won the mid-90s chart battle with their gave it their all and were inspirational. across the evening, Federal Charm proves Federal Charm. short-term, trend-heavy, disposable tunes, Same again next year, please.
to what they’re good at, and that’s about seeing Machine Head on World entertaining a crowd and creating Goth day. Loud as hell, dressed head to COCO AND THE an experience whereby there are no MACHINE HEAD toe in black and (quiet possibly) happy barriers between the band and their to live outside of sunlight, the band fans – it’s how it should be. This wasn’t bring the volume and heaviness of hell BUTTERFIELDS a performance where the band plays at at 02 Academy, Newcastle to the metal audience. Their risk of a the audience and the audience passively Springsteen-esque, almost three hour, soak up the show; it worked because 22/05/2018 set absolutely pays off on a North East at The Vault, Stockton each and every member of the band audience which, let’s face it, has been thrived off audience interaction and starved of decent metal and is almost Written and photographed obsessive in their air guitaring and fist 19/05/2018 they knew how to keep a Teesside by Damian Robinson crowd happy: “We often play in London pounding to every riff and drum pound. Written by Lee Allcock but we love coming back here as the When you see grown men pounding Photography by Tom Brown crowds in London are so boring”, California’s Machine Head, unbelievably the floor to the beat of the music you mentioned acoustic guitarist, Tomas close to their 30th anniversary, has long know that this is a show which has With elements of rock, folk, rap, world Twyman. Highlights included an Irish had the type of live show reputation that done all, and more, than it set out to music, hip-hop and even beatboxing - Hoedown, a mash-up of Flo-Rida’s even live music all-stars ACDC might be do. Full, Academy One in radius, circle this gig had everything. The last time I ‘Shorty got Low Low’ with Dizzee jealous of. Known for their turned-up- pits allow the audience to release some witnessed this eccentric five-piece in a Rascal’s ‘Bonkers’, a beatbox/drum-off, to-eleven volume, manic-like intensity, of the emotional energy which comes live setting was some three years ago my personal favourite track ‘Warriors’ and wild crowd devotion, Machine Head from Machine Head’s style of playing. now as they performed an incredible which sparked a mass-singalong in the has become synonymise with an almost Encouraging from the main stage, Robb set on the famous HM Bark Endeavour extremely intimate setting, and one guaranteed exceptional live show and Flynn provides high support to the ship in Stockton as part of Pirate Festival audience member noting that they value for money. Choosing to tour solo high challenge of maintaining stamina (sadly, the vessel has now moved to should have done Eurovision - due to under the moniker of ‘An evening with for the full three hours. Both band and Whitby and is a great loss to the cultural their eccentricity, they would have done Machine Head’, it feels like the band is audience meet this challenge brilliantly heritage of Stockton), and I described the UK proud (no nil pois for us for pushing their risk levels to their outer particularly in set highlights ‘Davidian’ that evening as a ‘symbiotic experience’ once). This was a gig that had everything limits. With no support surely comes the and ‘Bulldozer’. Happy Goth Day - not between the band and the audience – and more and had to be witnessed first- added pressure that the whole show, that this is really goth, but you take the and tonight was no different.Yes, they’ve hand to believe. If you get the chance and the audience’s enjoyment, rests on point I’m sure. With a bit of luck, okay, matured as a band – their sound is tighter to see Coco and the Butterfields live, the performance of your band. What with a lot of luck, Machine Head will and they’re more heavily influenced by don’t miss your opportunity or you will we get tonight is not quiet Dracula and return to the North East very soon. rap artists – but they continue to stick regret it. blood, but there is something compelling
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one-year anniversary of the Manchester keep the audience happy (I don’t believe bombing of May 2017 - “everybody belongs in using covers – if your original music is JAMES here” preaches Booth and fellow bandmates CATTLE & CANE good enough, sing it), it was his original as those in attendance are quick to echo tracks such as the heartfelt ‘I’ve Lived’ about at Middlesbrough the sentiment wholeheartedly. New track to his nana and granddad from Grangetown classic track, they weave their way effortlessly + Alistair Griffin at that really moved me and perfectly set the Town Hall through a combination of new and old. stage for headliners, and Teesside favourites, The timelessness of James’ songwriting is Middlesbrough Town Hall Cattle & Cane. From playing to around 22/05/2018 evident in the magnitude of their emotive 10 people at a small bar in Middlesbrough performances and the reaction of the 08/06/2018 some eight years ago to filling the crowd. As relevant today as they were Middlesbrough Town Hall tonight, Cattle & Written by Sam Dobinson back then, a once underrated band of the Written by Lee Allcock Cane has been on some journey and they Photography by Nigel John Manchester era have now surpassed the Photography by Jodie Canwell should be immensely proud of themselves. title of underrated and have conquered the Accompanied tonight by the talented The seated Middlesbrough Town Hall test of time - not only with their music but The newly revamped Middlesbrough Northern Orchestra, conducted by remained so only briefly as the detection in their passion-driven performances. With Town Hall is the perfect blend of historic Michael Lamb, this was Cattle & Cane of the opening three notes of ‘Waltzing the condemnation of Trump and the NRA and modern, keeping the charm of its in their element – and it was something Along’ instantly brought the previously seemingly a key lyrical feature of James’ gothic exterior and ornate glass ceiling, rather special. The contrast of Cattle & sedate concert hall to its feet - where fans latest effort, ‘Living in Extraordinary Times’, whilst adding modern features to give it Cane’s soft, subtle tones to the crescendo were to remain for the duration of James’ which is set to be released on August 3rd, a whole new lease of life – all in all, it’s a of the Northern Orchestra’s epic sound impressive twenty-one track set. Crowd 2018, all political concerns were set aside as fantastic venue for Middlesbrough and was simply awe-inspiring - and it worked favourite ‘Say Something’ was next and by a powerful performance of ‘Sometimes’ saw a venue that perfectly suited Cattle & together harmoniously throughout. Add in then the audience was unrecognisable to support act Lanterns on The Lake join James Cane’s generally acoustic, laid-back style. a stunning and dramatic lighting show that that of the opening two tracks; so much so on stage for the first of a three-track encore. Opening tonight’s proceedings in the created what looked like a lightning storm, they overtook the role of lead vocalist for Whilst it is all but too easy to overrate a seated venue is ex-Fame Academy star, plus not one but two confetti cannons and much of the song. New track ‘Many Faces’ band that you have great admiration for, I Alistair Griffin. Now, I can’t say I’m a big this was the perfect way to celebrate just drew in one of the loudest sing-alongs see it as no overreaction to say James are fan of TV talent shows, but Alistair is a how far Cattle & Cane has come in under of the night, despite being the inaugural and have been for some time now, one of clearly gifted musician that is passionate 10 years. The North East music scene is hearing for the vast majority of the crowd. the greatest live bands the UK has ever about his music. Although he included a dead some say – well, think again. The message of unity was clear on the produced. cover of The Beatles’ ‘She Loves You’ to
brings the knowing nod of The Beautiful under bill and even play the main stage – and South together with the gentler chorus it was no different this year. Whilst most JULIE GRANT harmonies of The Byrds in a song that WILLOWMAN festivals tend to stick to one genre to avoid is collectively uplifting and inspiring. alienating fans, Willowman does quite the A similar feel takes hold with Grant’s opposite and the acts this year were as at Surf Café, Tynemouth delivery of ‘Excellent Animal’, ‘Hang FESTIVAL diverse as ever. Throughout the day there For It’ and ‘Crash Out She Said’ which 27/05/2018 are all played with precision and blend were a number of fantastic moments as an acoustic/semi electric sound with (Saturday), Thirsk we were treated to the indie-pop synth of Written and photographed intelligent lyrics. ‘Animal’ does a great Opera Comics on the main stage, all-out by Damian Robinson job of showcasing the more electric 16/06/2018 enthusiasm from two-piece all-girl outfit guitar element of Julie Grant, with a Rews who were my stand out act of the day tremendous lead solo and an up-in-the- with their high-energy alternative rock, The With a growing reputation for delicate mix strong riff. Almost Smiths-like in its Written by Lee Allcock vocals, as well as an intimate style of Radio Set playing New Order-esque guitar structure, the narrative of ending animal Photography by Steve White songwriting, the proximity of audience lines in the pouring rain which didn’t seem cruelty would, let’s face it, be approved to artist at tonight’s show feels an ideal to dampen their spirits, Bessie & The Zinc by the great Moz himself.It’s a shame location for matching Julie Grant’s musical Personality, humour, and talent are what Buckets playing upbeat rockabilly music with that we don’t get to hear the brilliant intention with musical delivery.Highly Willowman Festival in Yorkshire has become a few bizarre covers - including tracks by ‘Mother, I’ve Won’, but given that this is personal and thought-provoking, Grant’s famous for over the last nine years and it was Britney Spears and Abba - that they pulled a short set, and all 8 songs fit together key strength (the name reflecting all off with ease, upbeat hip hop/rap/ska/reggae almost perfectly, tonight feels like a real in abundance today across all stages. members of the band rather than the outfit The Dub Pistols playing a high-tempo achievement. If some of the tracks played Booking artists such as The Wailers, Echo and individual) has always been the ability tonight are reconstructed as well in the Bumnymen and Peter Hook & the Light set to really get the crowd going, young indie to create an atmosphere for personal the studio, new release ‘It’s Me But It’s - along with this year New Model Army, Eat band Corella showing how much talent reflection in their audience - a tactic they Us’ should be worth looking forward Static, and N-Trance - the Willowman Festival there is in Manchester at the moment, My achieve tonight both through their choice to – and I certainly can’t wait to hear it. has grown over the years and, with only one Baby playing deep slide blues guitar with of intimate settings and Julie’s confessional site move, has now settled at Hullside Rural stunning female airy vocals over some and authentic narratives. Tonight’s highlight, Julie will also be playing at Arch Sixteen heavy dance beats, and finishing with New ‘Over and Out’, an honest tale of the in Gateshead this month and it’s a free Activities Park at Knayton. The old school mix Model Army with their signature Northern social stigmas associated to ageing (being entry gig so make sure you don’t miss it. of punk, ska and hip-hop is typical of previous ‘left on the shelf’), finds our main singer, Julie and the band thrive in an intimate line-ups which cater to an audience who Soul meets punk sound. It may have rained, and the rest of the Grants, in fine vocal setting so I can only see the Arch Sixteen appreciate the mix of familiar long-established but spirits were high all day in what was a form. Part folk, part pop, ‘Over and Out’ gig being another huge success. acts and festival newbies who pepper the fantastic showcase of incredible talent.
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AND EMMA THE RAGMEN lik
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JOSHUA BURNELL RISE TO REBELLION SLEEPTAPE THE ENDEAVOURS THE WINTER HILL TONI SIDGWICK ‘Songs Of The Seasons’ ‘H.O.P.E’ Single Review ‘Benefit’ Single Review ‘My Eyes Have Witnessed You’ TRANSMISSION ‘Tr y ’ Single Review Single Review Album Review Written by Paul Kemp Written by James Paterson ‘The Winter Hill Transmission’ Written by Damian Robinson Written by Jack Dodsworth Written by Damian Robinson Observant admirers of Toni Sidgwick North East alternative rap duo, Rise to Newcastle rock foursome SleepTape’s Album Review may have noticed certain trends and In 2016, young York-based musician Rebellion, has just released their brand new single ‘Benefit’ tells a tale of Quite how a collection of guys from Written by Janine Lewis themes in the narrative and musical Joshua Burnell embarked on his most new track entitled ‘H.O.P.E.’ and I was pragmatic melancholy atop rich layered Hartlepool can create the sound and structure of her work. Choosing to ambitious quest yet - his goal was fortunate enough to have a listen to guitar. All at once, bright, spacious and emotional resonance of the very best Newcastle-based five-piece alternative return to tales focused on the glass to release his own arrangement of a the new song before its release. Funnily deeply emotional, SleepTape’s signature soul music from early 1970s Sheffield, band, The Winter Hill Transmission, made being half-full, a key strength of Sidgwick traditional song each week, reflecting enough, this is the first track to be sound weaves together a hearty dose Alabama, Muscle Shoals is a question up of Ben Holland (rhythm guitar and is her ability to demonstrate that there the seasons as the following year brought out since the duo’s rebranding of Lower Than Atlantis and the slightest that may take a lot of time to answer. vocals), Pete Moffat (lead guitar/backing is always another half-empty side to the progressed. As of May 4th, fourteen of earlier this year so I was expecting dash of Idlewild - this is noticeably Music fans don’t always like to single vocals), Andy Lofthouse (keyboard/ story. Past single ‘Carry My Heart’ was his favourite tracks have shipped onto something a little different from their present in the broad dramatic scenes out the front person when they talk backing vocals), Neil Reynolds (bass), effective in the way it told the story his latest album and I’ve had the pleasure earlier material - and I was right. From painted by the able and spectacularly about what makes certain pieces of and Tom Bacon (drums) have been hard that although we can get lost in the of listening to it. Josh is a very traditional beginning to end, the whole track has a textured instrumentation of guitarist music stand out as it’s a bit like singling at work to release their new self-titled darkness of the world, the most positive folk singer-songwriter and by that I certain honesty about it that grips you and vocalist Jonathan Lott, guitarist out a centre-forward in a successful album. The Winter Hill Transmission way to live is to stay strong and find mean he has a strong emphasis on vivid and touches you – it’s full of emotion Luke Rogers, bassist Elliot Johnson and football team - we all know they’re began as Ben Holland’s solo project in reasons not to give up. ‘Try’ builds on storytelling within his work - and just and integrity and truly captivates you. the subtle but strong drumming of Dan important but without a decent team 2010. And they say good things come to Sidgwick’s optimistic philosophy with the like traditional folk tales, Josh’s singles are The rap parts are quick, emotional Butterworth. The summery, dream-pop around them they’d not perform as those who wait as, eight years later, the central theme this time being not love, centred on his voice. It’s his narratively and hit hard when coupled with the inspired indie-rock of SleepTape hovers well. Or at least that’s the liberal and band has released their first album with but communication. Telling the story evocative tales that grab the listener softer tones of the clean vocal parts. I above a sea of reverberating riffs, with accepted way of giving praise to a all lyrics written by Ben. The album tells of an uncommunicative relationship, as we’re reeled into Josh’s world as he will say though that I found the clean each rise and fall punctuated by driving, team dynamic. Given the complexity of the tale of break-ups and the longing Sidgwick starts with a half-empty glass carefully and charmingly foretells his vocals a little too Americanised for my punchy riffs and anthemic choruses that ‘My Eyes’…’ musical architecture, it’s felt from lost love with a haunting and and a description of the moments we fables, with the background acoustics liking, and I would have preferred more match poetry with poignancy. ‘Benefit’s’ certainly true that all of The Endeavours atmospheric sound. Opening with their try to reach somebody who finds it amplifying this immersive aspect. For natural, North East tones, but together refrain of “For the many not for the play a part in the success of this record, single ‘Jupiter’, the song is eerie and has a hard to open up. Sparse and ‘Private instance, in his single ‘Robin Hood and Dave Arnett and Matt Kitching have few, universal don’t mean you” and both in arrangement and songwriting, Bowie-esque vibe to it with a space-age Universe’ Crowded House-styled, The Peddler’, we’re lulled into the tale developed a solid harmony that works repeated reminders that “we’re falling yet you can’t get away from the fact theme. Soft vocals swirl around the ‘Try’ begins as an intentionally distant, by fast, rhythmic acoustics; adding a for them. Interestingly enough, there is into those bad habits again and again” that it’s frontman Tony Skillbeck who chords before exploding into a mystical fragile, piece. As our central author pace to the narrative as Josh’s voice more to the title than meets the eye speak to pain, caution and lessons delivers the type of performance that crescendo, leaving a dramatic pause in reframes her challenge, so too does the takes over the story. Both Josh’s voice too. ‘H.O.P.E’ actually stands for ‘hold learned. Though SleepTape is anything transforms a track from very good into between before continuing. Although architecture of the music. Increasing and the instruments merge together on pain ends’ which makes me feel like but cautious - playing with vigour and a solid gold. Passionate, complex and their singles ‘Jupiter’ and ‘Satellites’ suggest its tempo, and offering lovely surprises tremendously to create an incredibly this song represents letting go of those spectacularly well-honed sound - all the emotive, Skillbeck’s vocal range provides Bowie influences, throughout the album, (pianos, hand-claps), ‘Try’ moves into pleasing song that captivates the listener. things in life that cause only pain - a pieces are in place for this quartet to the emotional heart to a record which there are hints of earlier work such a more positive track as the author Listening to Joshua’s folk singles is like cathartic thought that fits perfectly succeed. As vocalist Lott’s voice bellows explores the journey from love at first as Death Cab for a Cutie with softer moves her description of ‘trying’ from being transported to a 19th Century with the tone of the song. over the determined performance sight, to the ultimate realisation of basslines and twinkling keys. There are one of a frustrated annoyance to one Britain - as if the listener is witnessing ‘H.O.P.E’ is a genuinely heartfelt track of his compatriots, the passion, skill knowing that no matter how hard you also folky, chanty sounds with lyrics about of optimistic belief (“You know in that Josh live in a bar or around a campfire that is perfect for people who like and drive of SleepTape are all clearly try, you can’t always get what you want. dandelions, bumblebees and solitaire; moment I’ll be there”). By the end of - and that’s because his singles tell tales their rap raw, honest and filled with defined. If they can stick to these good Soulful beyond expectations, ‘My however, their closing track ‘Matador’ ‘Try’, our author has found the strength of legends like ‘Robin Hood’ and ‘The emotions that define us as human habits, this is a band that will, no doubt, Eyes…’ is maybe the most affecting has a soothing, relaxing sound to it whilst to persist with her quest.‘Try’ again Nightingale’. ‘Songs of the Seasons’ beings. It’s a great first effort from Rise be making their presence felt and piece of American soul to come out accompanied by heart-breaking lyrics. The showcases Sidgwick’s ability to examine simply oozes wit. If you’re looking for to Rebellion and I’m looking forward to voices heard for years to come. of the North East since The Animals. Winter Hill Transmission’s official video a moment of choice and provides an clever, traditional folk tales, then be sure hearing more from these guys in 2018. You can find ‘Benefit’ on all platforms Brilliant stuff. for ‘Jupiter’ can be found on YouTube now. empathetic understanding of both sides. to check out Josh Burnell. To find out more about the duo head now including Spotify, Apple Music and For further information about The Their debut album is also available on Long may the glass remain half full. For further information about Josh and to Facebook.com/risetorebellionuk. YouTube. Endeavours and their new release, head Spotify, Amazon or on their webpage at ‘Try’ can now be purchased at the release head to Joshuaburnell.co.uk. to Facebook.com/theendeavours. thewinterhilltransmission.com. tonisidgwick.com.
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• GeroSchipmann Group. • Soul Addiction. • This Ground Moves. Thursday 12th July The Cluny2, Newcastle. £6.00. The Globe, Newcastle. £10.00. Crook Hotel, County Durham. JULY 2018 GIG LISTINGS • Dead Naked Hippies. • The Whodlums. • Psychostick. Free. Sunday 1st July • Gypsy Unplugged. The Green Room, Stockton. Crook Hotel, County Durham. Think Tank!, Newcastle. £11.00. • Mavis Staples • Mark Hodgson. The Gypsy Rover, Redcar. Free. £5.00. Free. • Komparrison. + Benjamin Brooker. Saltburn House. Free. • Folk & Acoustic Open Mic • The Bullfrog Blues Band. • Lana & the Drivers. The Sitting Room, Guisborough. The Sage, Gateshead. £32.00. The Sun, Burnopfield, Newcastle. £5.00. • Lorraine Crosby. Session. The Georgian Theatre Bar Stage, Saturday 14th July The Station, Killingworth. The Globe, Newcastle. Free. Stockton. Free. Free. • Saxophonics. • The Smokin’ Spitfires. • Break Out. • Melody 5. The Globe, Newcastle. £6.00. • Folkish Fusion. Thursday 5th July The Cluny, Newcastle. £7.00. The Globe, Newcastle. £4.00. Newcastle University Students’ • Mercury (Queen Tribute). Majestic Theatre, Darlington. • The Last Gasp Spasm Band. • Eclectic Bluegraloo. • The Pre Amps. Union. £7.50. Sunderland Empire Theatre. £8.00 Adv. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free. Bar Loco, Newcastle. Greens, Sunderland. Free. • Sunniside Live Festival £24.00. • Julie Grant + Hassle • David Lynch Double Bill: • JAK JAK + Belly Feel + Serfa • Mouth of the Tyne Festival Featuring The Lightening Seeds Friday 13th July + Calum Tordoff. Blue Velvet + Wild at Heart. + French Press. Featuring James Arthur. + Reverend and the Makers. Arch Sixteen, Newcastle. Free. The Cluny2 , Newcastle. Free. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £5.00. Tynemouth. £19.00. Sunniside Gardens, Sunderland. • Eli. • Plugged Out: Music To Your • Tempest. • Siobhan Wilson. • Hellraiser. £55.00 Weekend. The Crown, Whickham. Free. Beers – Andrew Trainor. • Kimera. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Billingham Catholic Club. £1.00. Old Cinema Launderette, Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. Sunday 8th July • Overdrive. Durham. £11.00. • Sunniside Live Festival The Burn, Houghton. Free. Cleadon. Free. Vigilant Inn, South Shields. Free. • Krow. Featuring Soul II Soul. • Steve Plaice. • Jazz Swing Latin Night with • A Dying Reign + Nation In Ruin • Boneshakers. Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. Sunniside Gardens, Sunderland. Saltburn House. Free. Redemption + Holly Rees + Saints Of War + Nephilim. Crook Hotel, County Durham. £5.00. Weekend £55.00. • Bull Frog Blues Band. + Ben Hutchinson + Simon Musiclounge, Stockton. Free. • Tynemouth Fringe Festival. • Jonah Matranga. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free. Carter. £3.00 OTD. • Alzheimers Charity All Dayer. Tynemouth CIU Club. £6.00. Think Tank? Newcastle. £10.00. • Stonefield. Musiclounge, Stockton. • Saltburn Calling. Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. • Mouth of the Tyne Festival. • Staxtonbury Festival. The Cluny, Newcastle. £9.00. £3.00 OTD. £10.00. • Sofar Sounds. Tynemouth. £44.00. Manor Farm, Staxton. • Darren Hayman. • OasisJam. • Palominos. Secret Venue, Middlesbrough. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £12.00. The Station, Killingworth. Free. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free. £10.00. Friday 6th July Saturday 7th July • Amateur Jam Session. • 1977. • The Deputies. • The Artilleries. • Six Nowt. • Plugged Out: Music To Your The Globe, Newcastle. Free. The Big Jug, Durham. Free. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. Think Tank? Newcastle. £5.50. The Crown, Whickham. Free. Beers – Kirsty Forster Duo. • The Backroom Band. • House Disciples. • The Weller Connection • The Mitch Laddie Band. • Plugged Out: Music To Your King’s Prosecco Lounge, Vigilant Inn, South Shields. Free. Bar Loco, Newcastle. + TheWhodlums. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free. Beers – Strange Fruit. Cleadon. Free. • Staxtonbury Festival. • The Swamp Hoppers. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Shamu + The Kingbees. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Cleadon. • The Vellacos + Komparrison Manor Farm, Staxton. The Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. £11.25. Tyne Bar, Newcastle. Free. Free. +TheGrizwoldz. • Rhythm Emission. • Mike Memphis Elvis & His • The Cosmic Dead + Kylver • Open Mic/Ukulele Band. Musiclounge, Stockton. Greens, Sunderland. Free. Memphis Belles. + SDBIA. Monday 2nd July Saltburn house £3.00 OTD. • The Panthers. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. The Cluny, Newcastle. £8.00. • Red City Radio. • Keep It Real Night Featuring • FrankiesCafé. Crook Hotel, County Durham. • Callum Pitt. • Him Off TheViz Presents Think Tank? Newcastle. £8.00. High Tower Temple, The Station, Killingworth. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £7.00. The Dyslexia Society • SykkoDollz + Jolly Joker. • Dead Hands. • Beezewax. Fundraiser. The Otherness. Tuesday 10th July Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. Musiclounge, Stockton. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £6.00. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £5.00. £3.00 OTD. • Staxtonbury Festival. • Dougie Maclean. • Neck. • Mr Airplane Man. Tuesday 3rd July • The Backtrackers. Manor Farm, Staxton. The Sage, Gateshead. £23.00. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. The Green Room, Stockton. £6.00. £7.00. • Beth Macari + Talk like Tigers. The Gypsy Rover, Redcar. Free. • The Grumpies. Wednesday 11th July The Cluny2, Newcastle. £3.00. • Giroscope. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Armortura. • C-Collective. The Station, Killingworth. • NARCFest 2018: AFAP • Live Buskers. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. £6.75. Ku Bar, Stockton. £3.00. Wednesday 4th July • Tony Liddle band. + Penguin + Luxury The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Motel California • STANfest: Stan the Band • Jam Night With Ojay. The Big Jug, Durham. + Nano Kino. • Acoustic Nights. (Eagles Tribute). + TheDjooks + Annie Griffiths. Bar Loco, Newcastle. • Midnite Blue. Various Venues, Newcastle. Free Wilders, Newcastle. Free. Harrowgate Club & Institute Ltd, The Tyne Bar, Newcastle. Free. • Live Buskers. The Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. • Baltic. • Lord Bishop. Darlington. £8.00. • Megan D. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Russ Tippins Electric Band. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £5.00. Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. • Women and Brass Festival. Dun Cow, Sunderland. Free • Acoustic Nights. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • The Straits UK. • Gypsy Unplugged. Gala Theatre, Durham. £18.00. • The Graham Henderson. Wilders, Newcastle. Free. Ku Bar, Stockton. £6.00. The Gypsy Rover, Redcar. Free. Experience. Bar Tutsters, Bishop Auckland.
52 53 NE VOLUME JULY 2018 GIG LISTINGS NE VOLUME JULY 2018 GIG LISTINGS • The Paul Weller Connection. • The Simon & Garfunkel Story. Sunday 22nd July • Plugged Out: Music To Your Sunderland Empire Theatre. Beers – Dave Ridley. The Georgian Theatre, JULY 2018 GIG LISTINGS £23.00. • Deputeys. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Stockton. £6.00. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free. Cleadon. Free. • Losers Club. Saturday 21st July • SummerTyne Americana • Grace Under Pressure. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. Saturday 14th July • Trembling Bells. The Cumberland Arms, • Smithfest. Festival. The Burn, Houghton. Free. • The Strange Valentines. The Globe, Newcastle. Free. • Summer Streets Festival. Newcastle. £10.00. Various Venues, Hartlepool. £4.00. Sage, Gateshead. • Tinny Bennett + Cutting Edge • Whole Hog. Seaburn Recreational Park. Free. • I Am Aquitaine. • Plugged Out: Music To Your • Open Jam Jazz Session. + Katie Adamson + Jacob Diaz Crook Hotel, County Durham. • Tynemouth Fringe Festival Trillians Rock Bar, Newcastle. Beers – Craig Davies. The Globe, Newcastle. Free. Wright. Free. Featuring Clash City Rockers. • Gypsy Unplugged. King’s Prosecco Lounge, Cleadon. • Lickety Split. Musiclounge, Stockton. Tynemouth CIU Club. £6.00. The Gypsy Rover, Redcar. Free. • Honey Trap + Dark Sea Blue The Globe, Newcastle. £3.00 OTD. • Neil Gibson. + Megan Dotchin. • Carlton Main Frickley • Sound Divide. Redwell Inn, Barnard Castle. Free. Sunday 15th July Friday 20th July Musiclounge, Stockton. £3.00. Colliery Band. The Station, Killingworth. Free. • 7 Sins. White Swan, Morpeth. Free. • Fur Dixon’s WTFUKUSHIMA. • Head Of Light Entertainment • Mitch Laddie Band. Gala Theatre, Durham. £18.00. • 101. • Dog in a Box. Westgarth Social Club, + Heather Story The Station, Killingworth. Free. • Born Villains. The Big Jug, Durham. Alexandra, North Shields. Free. Middlesbrough. £10.00. + McCormick Band. • Greg Coulson Band Crook Hotel, County Durham. • The Ballbreakers. • The Casinos. The Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. • Mick Glamz. Musiclounge, Stockton. + Reece Hillis. Sunday 29th July The Station, Killingworth. Free. £3.00 OTD. Redcar Citizen Club. Vigilant Inn, South Shields. Free. • Michael Lion reggae Band. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Skapones. • Voodoo &The Crypts • Jo James Band. • The Jet Rets. Monday 23rd July Saltburn House. + Scruffy Pups + Stereohaze. The Station, Killingworth. Free. Bar Loco, Newcastle. • ZalCleminson’s Sin Dogs. • The Sour Mash Trio. Bar Loco, Newcastle. • On The Rocks. • Boneshakers. • Employed to Serve. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.00. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free. • Audio Jacks. The Big Jug, Durham. Free. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £9.00. • The Beatles Unplugged. The Georgian Theatre Bar Stage, • Musician of the Month. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free. • Eyre Llew & Guests. • Black Rose Wednesday 25th July The Staiths Café, Gateshead. Free. • Go Go Midgets. Bar Loco, Newcastle. (Thin Lizzy Tribute). Stockton. Free. • The Graham Henderson The Cluny2, Newcastle. • The Graham Henderson The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Live Buskers • R.E.M by STIPE. Experience. • Okay Champ + Blom + Anke. Experience. • The Dickies. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. The Tap and Spile, Hexham. Free. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £6.00. The Cleveland Bay, Eaglescliffe. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Kinkajous + Grey Tapes. £11.25. • Stan The Band. • Cult Party + Kumiko. • Assassin. £16.90. Gosforth Civic Centre. • The Pre Amps. The Schooner, Gateshead. Free. Spooker Attic, Westgarth Social The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Thunderstruck £8.00 Adv. The Station, Killingworth. • Swamp Hoppers. Club, Middlesbrough. £7.00. • Michael Head & The Red (ACDC Tribute). • Acoustic Nights. Free. Crook Hotel, County Durham. • Skullduggery. Elastic Band. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00. Wilders, Newcastle. Free. • Stratosphonic. Free. Vigilant Inn, Soith Shields. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £18.50. • Catalyse. • Blame it on: Bianca Del Rio. Greens, Sunderland. Free. • Fabulous Balls Brothers. • South Tyneside Festival. • Northern Electric Festival. Sticky Fingers, Middlesbrough. Newcastle City Hall. £40.00. • F.A.B. Vigilant Inn, South Shields. Free. Bents Park, Tyneside. Free. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £6.00. • Emily Maguire. • Gypsy Unplugged. The Hasting, Seaton Delaval. The Gypsy Rover, Redcar. Free. Free. • Mac the Gunner + Kakara. • Grease Sing-a-long. The Cluny2, Newcastle. £12.00. Monday 30th July Tyne Bar, Newcastle. Free. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Status Quo. • The Force. Thursday 26th July £10.00. Middlesbrough Town Hall. £39.50. Crook Hotel, County Durham. • Act of Defiance. Monday 16th July Think Tank! Newcastle. £16.50. • Sinister Six. • SummerTyne Americana • Hellions. Free. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £9.00. • Mr Airplane Man. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. £6.75. Festival. Saturday 28th July Tuesday 31st July The Cluny, Newcastle. £8.00. • SummerTyne Americana Sage, Gateshead. • The Staiths Café Music Night. • Mad Caddies + Buster Shuffle • The Graham Henderson Festival. • Tiki Night: Ukelele by The Staiths Café, Gateshead. • Plugged Out: Music To Your
Experience. Sage, Gateshead. ParissaZarifi. Free. Beers – Paul Jeans. + Death to Indie + Kahuna. The Black Bull, Bolden. Free. O2 Academy, Newcastle. £23.00. Red Lion, Norton. Free. • Del Amitri. Head of Steam, Norton. Free. Friday 27th July • The James Morrison Quartet. Newcastle City Hall. £43.15. • Holly Rees. • Josh Hodgson. • Iron Maiden. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. Gala Theatre, Durham. £23.00. • Greg Adate & the Paul Dun Cow, Sunderland. Free. • Pete Williams Band. King’s Prosecco Lounge, £55.00. Edis Trio. • Liza Pulman. Westgarth Social Club, Cleadon. Free. Wednesday 18th July Gala Theatre Lunchtime Sessions. Gala Theatre, Durham. £21.00. Middlesbrough. £10.00. • Get Hip. • Martin Black. O2 Academy2, Newcastle. £7.90. • Live Buskers. Gala Theatre, Durham. £5.00. • Dog in a Box. • Revolver Duo. Musiclounge, Stockton. £3.00. The Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Greg Adate & the Paul The Poachers Cottage, Newcastle. The Gypsy Rover, Redcar. Free. • Firelight Opera Duo. • Acoustic Nights. Edis Trio. • Big Sister. The Station, Killingworth. Free. Add your August listings to Wilders, Newcastle. Free. Jazz Café, Newcastle. £10.00. The Cross Keys, Washington. • The Grumpies. nevolume.co.uk/listings now Free. The Old Fox, Gateshead. Free
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