WWW.NEVOLUME.CO.UK OUR TOP 10 NORTH EAST BANDS/ARTISTS TO SEE IN 2018!

WE’RE BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: LIFE OF VINYL! LISTENING! MIXING ART WITH MUSIC, VINYL IN STOCKTON! ISSUE #29 DEC/JAN 17/18 WE SPEAK TO HAPPY MONDAYS! POST-MORTEM OF LIAM GALLAGHER’S TOON GIG! FOLLOW NE VOLUME ON SOCIAL NEWCASTLE/GATESHEAD WINTER FESTIVAL! ECHOLINES‘ NEW ALBUM! MEDIA BOXING DAY BIG ONE AT THE STUDIO, HARTLEPOOL!

PICK UP OUR FREE NORTH EAST MUSIC/CULTURE MAGAZINE! LET’S GET EVEN LOUDER NORTH EAST VOLUME!!!!! NEWS! FEATURES! WELCOME! Thank you so much for picking up PG.5 Gig Preview: PG.25 Business Spotlight: Life of Vinyl! Town Hall Live #2 NE Volume magazine - the magazine at Hartlepool Town Hall! PG.26 Mixing Art and Music at Riverside produced by local music and culture fans, Lounge, Stockton! for local music and culture fans. PG.6 Gig Preview: It’s that time of year again! The Christmas 999 at The Georgian Theatre! PG.27 X-mas Box Festival, Darlington! markets are in full swing, the mulled PG.30 Top 10 North East Artists wine is going down rather nicely, we’re PG.7 Gig Previews: to See in 2018! in the festive spirit... and my designer OniX Music’s December Highlights! has plonked a Santa hat on me, again. December is also a time where we’re PG.10 Gig Preview: INTERVIEWS! spoilt for choice when it comes to Chronic Change at Think Tank? cultural and musical events, but we’ve Underground! PG.32 Cara Dillon! ram-packed this bumper edition so you won’t miss out. In this edition, I pick the Gig Preview: PG.33 Happy Mondays! PG.11 top 10 bands/artists that I truly believe Hutton Rudby Village Hall’s Red Fang! Highlights! PG.36 you should see live this year; we provide PG.37 The Twang! you with our honest opinion of Wolf PG.12 Gig Preview: Alice at the 02 Academy; we keep you Pete Fij at The Sitting Room! PG.38 Nathalie Stern! up-to-date with what’s happening in the region in December and January Cape Cub! PG.43 including: Town Hall Live #2 in Hartlepool, CULTURE CORNER! The Filthy Tongues at the Westgarth and Event: GIG REVIEWS! Vinyl at Riverside Lounge in Stockton; PG.16 in our culture section we preview the Newcastle/Gateshead Winter Sløtface at KU Bar, Stockton! Festival! PG.48 NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival, PG.49 Liam Gallagher in Newcastle! and so much more. Just to remind you, if PG.17 Comedy: you’ll be running an event or bringing any Bill Bailey at Newcastle City Hall! PG.51 Wolf Alice at 02 Academy! new material out in December/January/ PG.20 Art: February then please email our team at Kalpana’s Warriors at Bamburgh ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS! [email protected] and we’ll do all House, Newcastle! we possibly can to include a review/news Echolines, Miss Danby & The piece in our February edition which will Event: PG.54 PG.23 What, Parallax Skies, Stephen J. be released on Friday 2nd February.And Ghost Dances at Theatre Royal! Mordue. Bob Douglass & The from everybody here at NE Volume, we Frequency, Be Quiet Shout Loud! wish you a very Merry Christmas and a ARTIST SPOTLIGHT! Happy New Year. PG.56- DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS! PG.24 Phase! Lee Allcock - Editor - NE Volume

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: TOWN HALL USE NE VOLUME LIVE #2 TO PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS/BAND/LOCAL BUSINESS! PLAZA + PARA ALTA + MAX BIANCO + MORE AT Promote your events, band and your local HARTLEPOOL TOWN HALL business to more than 16,000 music and culture fans in the North East! Written by Thomas Anderson

This magazine, with a readership of 16,000+, is a fantastic CONTACT Following on from the success of their tool for local gig and event promoters, bands and North first event in September, Hartlepool East businesses to market themselves to local audiences. Town Hall will be hosting their second NE Volume is a North East magazine delivered FREE to ‘Town Hall Live’ on Friday 22nd a range of communities in the North East - covering Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, Darlington, Redcar, December, featuring a selection of Newcastle, Sunderland, and many more. Our next issue GIG PREVIEW: popular home-grown artists including will be out on Friday 2nd February so get in touch now EDITOR: LEE ALLCOCK Plaza, Para Alta, Max Bianco and to get involved! Gra4ce. Opening up the event will be LISTINGS: EMILY HOOK psychedelic and dream-pop singer- FORTIES TO songwriter, Gra4ce - a fantastic and fresh We produce adverts in eighth, quarter, CREATIVE: TOM BROWN half, full page and double page spreads. - artist from Hartlepool that brings dark If you would like a full NE Volume techno influences (think Aphex Twin) advertising pack sent out, please contact Contact information NOUGHTIES into the bright world of dream-pop. [email protected] or call us on 01642 Email: [email protected] | Phone: 01642 237348 The next act on the line up is Max 237348. FEAT. BARRY HYDE www.nevolume.co.uk/contact Bianco, a member of the inventors of AT JUMPIN’ JACKS, industrial folk and proud Hartlepudians, Our trained journalists can write your copy while our The Jar Family. He will be performing professional designers can help to put your adverts his solo work which, although slightly together. So whatever your requirements are, we are NEWCASTLE different from his work with The Jar here to help! Magazine designed by Tom Brown Graphic Design. For quotes on Design and Consultancy services contact Tom Brown at: Barry Hyde, frontman of the critically- Family, still has that distinct industrial [email protected] | www.tbgraphics.co.uk acclaimed Sunderland-born indie band, The folk vibe that we’ve all grown to love. Futureheads, is due to play a special date The act up before the headliners will be on Tuesday 5th December at the iconic none-other than local indie band, Para and intimate Jumpin’ Jacks (above the Dog Alta, whose latest release ‘Home to NE Volume is a proud supporter of and Parrot) in central Newcastle. You’ has hit over 100k listens on Spotify Unlike his other North East tour dates a year since Barry’s debut solo release, in a short space of time. Headliners, LET'S GET SOCIAL! (now sold out), this show won’t be your ‘Malody’, a melancholic and calmer step Plaza, are a gritty and grungy math- ordinary solo acoustic gig. On the night, back from his work with The Futureheads rock group from Hartlepool that have Barry will be headlining an event that will that saw the artist gain notoriety in the risen to prominence in the North East include six up-and-coming songwriters music world in the noughties. Although his recently; regularly selling out shows who will play the audience through the new material is often the forefront of his across the region as they showcase decades, starting from the suave 1940s solo shows, that’s not to say there won’t their mind-bending psychedelic set of to the new indie-wave of the 2000s, with be a few Futureheads’ classics thrown complex guitar riffs and melancholy Barry of cause covering the latter. in there for good measure. With much melodies to an enthusiastic audience. Ellie Sunderland will be covering the 40s, more entertainment to be announced, This is the second Town Hall Live in the Durham finger-picking hero Connor it’s definitely going to be an unforgettable quarterly event series, with plans already Thomas will be taking care of the 70s, and night. It’s also advised to get your tickets as underway for number three following Heavy Jets frontman Rhys Breen will be soon as possible as the event is heading for the success of their first show. In terms covering the 90s. a sell-out. So head down to Jumpin’ Jacks, of the venue, it’s a fantastic bespoke live FOLLOW US TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE WITH THE NORTH EAST ‘MvC Live Sessions and Signed Memorabilia Auctions fund In terms of Barry’s set, it’s rumoured Newcastle for a night filled with nostalgia. entertainment venue in the heart of state of the art cancer equipment/initiatives into the NHS that he has something a little different in Tickets, priced at £5.00 in advance, are Hartlepool with an impressive capacity MUSIC AND CULTURE SCENES! WWW.NEVOLUME.CO.UK and vital awareness campaigns’ store for gig-goers, as well as obviously available from seetickets.com. Tickets on of 400. Tickets for this one are priced Published monthly by NE Volume. Printed by JAK HQ Limited (www.jakinc.uk) playing some of his usual fan favourites the door, if there are any left, will be priced at just £5.00 and can be purchased at www.musicvcancer.com Unit 4 Station Road, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DY. [email protected] and solo work. The show comes just over at £7.00. hartlepooltownhalltheatre.com. For more information please contact [email protected] @musicvcancer | /musicvcancer

4 5 NE VOLUME NEWS NE VOLUME NEWS

GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEWS: 999 ONIX MUSIC’S + SUPPORT AT THE DECEMBER GEORGIAN THEATRE, STOCKTON HIGHLIGHTS Written by Rebecca Schott Written by Kyrie Morris Photography by Howy White This coming January, celebrate the New Year with classic punk rockers, The North East is home to some of 999, as they take to the stage of The the most talented and awe-inspiring Georgian Theatre in Stockton as artists, but people often forget the part of a string of gigs across the UK, important role that music promoters Germany, and Poland. Forming back play behind the scenes - and that’s in the 1970s in London, the band where OniX Music comes in. OniX celebrated their 40-year anniversary Music is a management, production and in early December last year and are development agency based in the North still performing with the same raw GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: East of England. Priding themselves on punk vigour as they did 40 years ago. their professional approach, the team are The band were quick to establish dedicated to the growth and nurture of themselves as a strong force to be some of the finest Northern musicians TOMMY ARTICLE XI involved with cutting-edge alternative reckoned with amongst the punk scene across London and released music. The agency has an extensive their self-titled debut album in 1978, + FAVOURITE ANIMALS history with gig promotion, spending the two years after their formation. SCOTT AT BRIDGE HOTEL, last three years booking and managing The album features their renowned tours throughout Europe with various (SPACE) AT THE CLUNY, bands such as Grime, Secrets of the hit single, ‘Emergency’, which has NEWCASTLE received critical-acclaim over the Moon and Crippled Black Phoenix. band’s career, having featured in NEWCASTLE Now, OniX is looking to spread its Has there ever been a more exciting Mojo magazine’s list of the best punk wings as it branches out further into Written by Kyrie Morris time on the UK jazz scene? With new singles of all time. the world of music promotion.Their and immensely creative young musicians Throughout their career, the band passion for music is combined with their Singer-songwriter and long-term record constantly appearing all around the has toured most of the world, playing unique ability to adapt their craft to producer, Tommy Scott, is heading to The country, it’s became apparent that it’s is music that offers grand-sweeping sold-out shows to ecstatic punk suit any individual artist, making them a Cluny in Newcastle on Thursday 14th tough for promoters to find a slot for ensemble passages that frame generous lovers across Europe and America promotion team that musicians will be December, armed with a catalogue of everybody they’d like to bring to the spaces for individual voices to be heard. predominantly with the band having lucky to have on their side. This month old and new material sure to leave gig create hit records as well as charting region. One solution is to assemble as One of those voices belongs to completed 36 UK tours and 15 tours is shaping up to be an exciting time for revellers hyped. over 35 times, it’s no wonder that Scott’s many as possible in one package, and saxophonist Cath Roberts, whose own across the US. Expect a night of heavy the promoters as they’re set to present The Space frontman was born in sales are soaring well above the million that’s what Jazz North East are doing 10-piece, Favourite Animals, forms the 1970s punk-rock with one of the best an array of events. On Saturday 9th Liverpool in 1964 and grew up in one of mark. for their final concert of 2017 when other half of this astounding double bill. and longest running British bands December, Independent in Sunderland the less privileged areas of the city. He Fans can expect to hear a variety of they will bring 14 musicians from the The music builds on areas Cath had from the punk scene who continue to will play host to Driven Serious, developed an interest in music from a material, including iconic Space hits such Leeds, London and Manchester scenes explored with her quintet Sloth Racket. prove that punk still has a place in the Hivemind and The Gentleman Busker in young age and made himself known to as ‘Female Of The Species’ and ‘The to the Bridge Hotel on 10th December With the doubling in size of the group, 21st century. Support for the event what’s set to be an eclectic feast of folk the local music scene through playing in Ballad Of Tom Jones’, alongside some and present them mixed and matched the spice, the riffs, and the bluesiness comes from three North East-based and hard rock. The following weekend various Liverpudlian bands such as The of Scott’s selected solo material. Not into two large groups, Article XI and all getting cranked up to a higher level, bands that are making waves across will see Stockton’s Musiclounge filled Substitutes and Hello Sunset. But it was only this, but the Space sensation will Favourite Animals. with improvised passages that move the punk scene: Snide Remarks, The with the noise of Pastures, Pink Tide, the forming of his band Space in 1993 be accompanied by Satin Beige on cello Article XI, which, not surprisingly, from intimate whisperings to a glorious Hangmen, and Kickback Generation. The Phosphenes and Mallura on Friday which would see his career catapult and added backing vocals - a concoction includes 11 of the players is led by cacophony. Jazz today is so amazingly 999 will play at The Georgian Theatre 15th December, with a slightly heavier into success. The Liverpool indie band that’s sure to result in an atmospheric guitarist Anton Hunter. Unlike most diverse that no single concert could in Stockton on Friday 19th January line-up the following evening of the 16th, made waves throughout the UK and live set, bound to leave the North East big band projects, where the leader possibly encompass all the different 2018. Doors open at 7:00pm. including Fallen Mafia, CSOD and Final US almost immediately, leading Tommy crowd wanting more. begins by writing the compositions approaches, but this double bill is as close Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, Coil - a combination that will surely Scott to become known as one of the Tommy Scott will be taking to the stage and then presents them ready-made as you could get. are available from georgiantheatre. provide gig-revellers with their fix of world’s most renowned and in-demand of The Cluny, Newcastle on Thursday to the musicians, Anton started with Tickets, priced at £8.00 in advance co.uk. Tickets on the door, if there are live music. producers of all time. Influenced by such 14th December. considering each of their qualities as (£6.00 for concessions), are available any left, will cost £13.00. For more information on OniX Music greats as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, Tickets, priced at £10.00 in advance, are improvisers and then built the material from seetickets.com or Reflex CD in and their events, visit their website now and famed for his consistent ability to available from seetickets.com. around those elements. The result Newcastle. at onix-music.com.

6 7 � om all the volunteer team at Mvc

We’d also like to thank The Grand Hotel Hartlepool, the artists, sponsors, NE Volume Magazine and everyone else who has supported the MvC Live Sessions this year.

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GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEW: BOXING DAY THE FILTHY TONGUES BIG ONE + KLAMMER AT AT THE STUDIO, WESTGARTH SOCIAL HARTLEPOOL CLUB, MIDDLESBROUGH Written by Callum Thornhill Photography by Gary Hughes The core members of The Filthy Tongues includes Martin Metcalfe (vocals and Hartlepool’s Boxing Day Big One guitar), Derek Kelly (drums) and Fin returns to The Studio for their annual Wilson (bass) and they’ve been making post-Christmas knees up to keep spirits music together since the eighties. In a high. In recent years, nationwide success colourful career, they’ve worked and stories such as Plaza (Reading and toured with Blondie, Ramones, Chris Leeds Festival) and Future Horizons Frantz & Tina Weymouth, Vic Chesnutt, (Arc Tangent Festival) have entertained GIG PREVIEW: GIG PREVIEWS: New York Dolls, Big Audio Dynamite, the masses, so it is a perfect end of the Aztec Camera and many more. In the year gig to prepare yourself for 2018. late 80s and early 90s, as Goodbye Once again having four main acts, but Mr MacKenzie, they were on the cusp adding a DJ set from Newcastle’s Ink CHRONIC HUTTON RUDBY of great things in the UK and Europe and Dub adds further depth to what before record company wrangles, and has become an annual pilgrimage for a shift in direction, saw them morph North East music fanatics. CHANGE VILLAGE HALL’S into Angelfish, tour the States and bring James Leonard Hewitson, Michael the singing talents of Shirley Manson to Gallagher, Lost State of Dance and AT THINK TANK? UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS the fore.With Manson then leaving to Gufra pad out the line-up and each go global with Garbage, Metcalfe & Co offer something in the same ballpark, UNDERGROUND, Hutton Rudby Village Hall has, over the returned to the UK, recording further but at the same time progressively past 5 years, quietly been establishing in their former guise before forming Isa different to their predecessor. NEWCASTLE a reputation for putting on a handful & The Filthy Tongues and releasing two Hewitson’s first band, Arcs and Trauma, of good quality live gigs alongside all albums, both of which received five star played Reading and Leeds Festival in Written by Rebecca Schott reggae, blues, and classic rock. the normal events that make for a reviews.In 2016, the band released their 2010 and since then he has been a Chronic Change write music every other vibrant village hall. Their tag line is ‘little striking comeback album, ‘Jacob’s Ladder’, constant presence in the North East This December, alternative North East- day and often record in their very own village attracts big names’ and they’ve which received an array of positive music scene. With catchy tracks and based five-piece Chronic Change are home studio. And, after the release of been successful in booking artists that is a compelling live performer, drawing reviews from the mainstream music entertaining on-stage antics, he is a set to play at Think Tank? Underground their debut EP in November last year, larger venues would envy; attracted comparisons with Richard Thompson, press. Vocalist, Metcalfe, summarises the character full of good vibes. in Newcastle to celebrate the release the band are back with new music. With by the ambience of this fantastic Jeff Buckley and Martin Simpson, album perfectly as: “pleasingly grotty and Gallagher released his debut EP, ‘House of their new single, ‘Satisfied’, which was their music being so wonderfully diverse, Teesside/N.Yorks hall. December sees amongst others. He was winner of more than a bit gothic. All based around Music’, earlier this year and has since recorded at Blast Studios. The band who’s to say what it will sound like? So the unique Duke Special (real name Fatea’s Male Artist of the Year in 2014 dark neo-feudal Edinburgh”. The album supported everyone and anyone across describes themselves as “pioneers of new the only way to find out is to get yourself Pete Wilson) come to the hall as part & 2016. Amy is one of the UK’s most title track incorporates stunning string the region including Kele from Bloc music” that take inspiration from various to Think Tank? this December. Support for of a national tour to promote his prolific contemporary songwriters. sounds juxtaposed with their heavy Party. Lost State Of Dance’s blend of genres and bands including the likes of the event comes from Welsh band New new album, ‘Hallow’- a setting of the She has co-written with many artists, sound and raw, gritty lyricism. It evokes synth-pop is certain to do nothing but The Doors and Grateful Dead. Forming Columbia and two North East-based poems of Michael Longley. It is hard to chiefly Ed Sheeran, for which she the sound and imagery of Nick Cave or infect you and keep the upbeat, festive back in 2016, the band were quick to bands: Lost in the Crowd and Carabiniers. categorise Belfast born Pete Wilson; a gained a Grammy (as co-writer of Tom Waits but is very much music of atmosphere going ahead of Ink and release their first EP, simply called ‘The Chronic Change will play Think Tank? varied career has seen collaborations ‘Thinking Out Loud’). An artist in her their own making. Post-punk Leeds-based Dub. Gufra’s comeback this year was EP’, around six months after forming. The Underground, Newcastle on Saturday with - amongst others- Divine Comedy, own right, with five solo albums to her band, Klammer, are the support group eye-raising after time away from writing six tracks are all very tongue-and-cheek; 23rd December. Clannad and Foy Vance, appearances credit, she has been described as ‘the on the night. The Filthy Tongues play the and releasing music under that name. they are humorous, entertaining, and Tickets, priced at £7.00 in advance, on Top of the Pops & ‘Later’, numerous new Joni Mitchell’. Expect an evening Westgarth Social Club, Middlesbrough With a fanbase stretching all corners witty whilst still managing to be prime are available from wegottickets.com. festivals and writing musicals on Brecht. of carefully crafted songs with deep on Saturday 9th December, with doors of the country, what they lack in age examples of some of the great pioneers To hear about more gigs organised by The support act, Dan Donnelly, has emotional impact and a spellbinding live opening at 7:30pm. Tickets can be bought and general experience they make up of music that the North East has to offer. promoters Northern Soundz Music a big following locally and also a long performance. on line from seetickets and direct from for with lo-fi DIY vibes that have all the The band says that EP tracks ‘Filthy Girl’, Promotions please head to Facebook. friendship with Duke Special. Expect a For further information about both the venue. For further information hallmarks of slacker rock. ‘Animal’ and ‘Persistent Cowboy’ are com/Northernsoundz1. And to purchase night where your musical perceptions gigs, and to purchase tickets, head regarding promoters Fast Forward Tickets for this one are priced at £5.00 their “go to songs,” with each upbeat Chronic Change’s new single head to will be shifted.January sees Luke to huttonrudbyvillagehall.org.uk/ Promotions’ other upcoming gigs, head to on the door. track drawing influence from genres like musicglue.com/chronicchange. Jackson and Amy Wadge return. Luke forthcoming-events. fastforwardpromotions.co.uk.

10 11 NE VOLUME NEWS

GIG PREVIEW: CANDI STATON AT SAGE, GATESHEAD

Written by Kyrie Morris

Legendary soul and R&B artist, Candi Staton, is flying in especially from the US for what’s set to be a New Year’s Eve party like no other. The star will be heading to the North East for an exclusive one-night-only performance at the Sage, Gateshead on Sunday Kalpana’s Warriors at Rivington Place, 2016 ©Zoe Maxwell, courtesy of Autograph ABP 31st December. Candi Staton was born in Hanceville, Shahidul Alam Alabama and started her professional Kalpana’s Warriors career at the tender age of 12 where GIG PREVIEW: 1 Dec - 11 Jan she sang alongside such greats as Sam Open Wed - Sat, 11am - 5pm Cook and Aretha Franklin. This was the beginning of a journey that would PETE FIJ Artist Talk on 8 Dec, 6pm see her nominated for five Grammy Abject 2 Gallery, Bamburgh House, Market Street awards and inducted into three Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6BH different Halls of Fame throughout AND TERRY www.abject.gallery her colourful music career. The ‘first lady of southern soul’ began her solo career back in 1968 and has BICKERS gone on to release a commendable 29 albums over the past 45 years. AT THE SITTING ROOM, Some of her most famous material includes floor-fillers such as ‘Young GUISBOROUGH 2014 and was followed by the release Hearts Run Free’ and ‘You Got The of their critically-acclaimed record, ‘We Love’, which saw her return to the Written by Kyrie Morris Are Millionaires’, in July 2017, with the mainstream charts in 1991 after her latter receiving over 10,000 Kickstarter collaboration with The Source. The Pete Fij and Terry Bickers are set to pledges and rave reviews throughout the club-style dance hit, ‘You Got The stop off in the Northern town of UK. Critics have compared the duo to Love’, sold over 2 million copies and Guisborough on Thursday 1st February such greats as Johnny Cash, The Velvet is considered as a seminal classic of for what’s certain to be an event not to Underground and Simon & Garfunkel. that era. be missed. The Sitting Room, known for With Bickers’ gentle acoustic strums Ticket holders will also witness the its intimate atmosphere, will play host and electric licks all wrapped up in spectacle of the House Gospel Choir to the duo in what will be the venue’s lush melodies, which are accompanied who will be accompanying Candi. The first live music event of 2018. Singer- beautifully by Pete Fij’s worn out yet choir merges outstanding singers with songwriter Pete Fij is a former member soothing tone, the pair are a force to be DJs, live keyboards, bass and drums of bands Polak and Adorable, whilst reckoned with. If you’ve not yet heard to create an atmosphere and a sound Bickers has a history with alternative of them then give them a listen – they’re that will raise the roof and is sure to rock group, House of Love. Now the pretty special. MOJO had this to say get the audience dancing. pair have joined forces to create their of the two-piece: “Minor Key, acoustic Candi Staton will perform at the Sage, own unique material, which has been introspection done so beautifully it’s as Gateshead on Sunday 31st December. described as everything from ‘sweet’ to if they’re singing to one another in the Tickets, priced at £60.00, are available ‘darkly and poetically beautiful’. dustlight of a pub back room.” from sagegateshead.com. Guests also The pair have released two albums Pete Fij and Terry Bickers will be at The have the option to include a three- using Kickstarter alone, the world’s Sitting Room, Guisborough on Thursday course meal with their ticket for an largest funding platform for creative 1st February. additional £39.00. projects. Their debut album, ‘Broken Tickets, priced at £8.80 (including booking Heart Surgery’, was brought out in fee), are available from wegottickets.com.

12 BOILER SHOP PRESENTS

The Transports Monday 22 January, 7.30pm, Tickets: £20 michael GIRA (swans)

+ OKKYUNG LEE

John Smith FEBRUARY 20 BOILER SHOP NEWCASTLE Sunday 4 February, 7.30pm, FEBRUARY 21 KOKO LONDON Tickets: £15 TICKETS: TICKETWEB.CO.UK / DICE.FM

Cara Dillon Thursday 19 April, 7.30pm, Tickets: £20

Gala Theatre Box Office: 03000 266 600 www.galadurham.co.uk NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER COMEDY: BILL BAILEY AT NEWCASTLE CITY HALL Written by Adam Urwin

As comedians go, Bill Bailey is somewhat of a veteran on the stand- up circuit - he’s seen it all. And the comedian, whose talents know no bounds, returns to Newcastle with his ‘Larks in Transit’ show in the New funny sense of humour. Bailey has been doubt that this will be a wild show, to Year. Over the years, Bill Bailey has touring the comedy scene since the 80s, say the least. Fans of Bailey are in for a had success across the entertainment with 7 tour DVDs to his name since 2001. treat when he returns to Newcastle in industry and has become famous for his The titles – as wild and mad as his comedy 2018 and must be warned that if he can obscure comedy which incorporates his - include ‘Part Troll’ (2004) ‘Cosmic Jam’ handle Donny Tourette on ‘Buzzcocks’, endless talents as a musician to create (2005) and ‘Dandelion Mind’ (2010). then he can handle a very Northern hilarious songs and musical parodies. In comparison to his previous tours, crowd. Away from the stage, he has made guest ‘Larks in Transit’ seems like a pretty tame Bill Bailey will perform at City Hall, appearances on shows such as ‘Have I title. And this could be down to the show Newcastle on Saturday 3rd February. Got News for You’, ‘Room 101’ and in being made up of twenty years’ worth of Tickets, priced at £31.50 in advance, 2002 became a long-term team captain touring tales bringing together discussions are available from theatreroyal.co.uk. NEWCASTLE / GATESHEAD’S WINTER FESTIVAL For telephone bookings and enquiries, on indie quiz show, ‘Never Mind the on politics, philosophy and how the world Parks. Nothing encapsulates the heart and Parks as being: “A hugely popular event has changed over the years. 2017 alone please call the venue on 08448 11 21 21. Written by Samantha Gregory Buzzcocks’ where he was an immediate imagination of Christmas than magic and and one that we are extremely proud success due to his odd but brilliantly has been a bit of a wild year, so there’s no This year’s NewcastleGateshead Winter enchantment - and the return of Enchanted of in Gateshead. Through fantastic Festival will yet again boast an eclectic mix Parks promises to do just that. With its artistic ideas and creations, each year it of events for visitors of all ages. As part brand new creative team, Saltwell Park will brings together people from across the of the NewcastleGateshead Initiative, it be transformed into a magical wonderland region for six nights to enjoy an amazing aims to bring together the knowledge and where it will bring to life the myth and festive spectacle. With the mysterious EVENT: experience of a varied task force in order legend of Ursula Wailes in The Inventors’ and exciting theme developed around to provide a culturally diverse project Ball. The newly-appointed creative team, this year’s event, Enchanted Parks THE CUTTY BANG for all to enjoy. Apart from the usual Lorna Fulton (Creative Producer) and 2017 promises to be another magical panto-style theatre productions to relish Susan Mulholland (Creative Writer), will be experience for visitors of all ages.” To CABARET SHOW VI AT in, and the traditional Santa’s Grottos to joining veteran Enchanted Parks organisers continue the literary nature of the festival, endure, the festival will be hosting a range Vikki Leaney (Senior Festival and Events Seven Stories have announced their own MUSICLOUNGE, STOCKTON of events to explore and enjoy as the Manager at NewcastleGateshead Initiative), season of events to capture the heart and Written by John Paul McQue festive season approaches.With the aim of and Karolynne Hart (Cultural and Arts imagination of visitors. Seven Stories, the attracting visitors from within and outside Programme Officer at Gateshead Council) National Centre for Children’s Books, So what exactly is The Cutty Bang? Is it an the Newcastle/Gateshead area, the to bring this park to life.Impressively, Lorna is the only place in Britain dedicated to open mic cabaret show or is it a relentless Winter Festival promises a program full of has over 20 years’ experience in curating and saving, celebrating and sharing our rich quiz with no prizes or even right or wrong culture, creativity and excitement. From will be working with artists and designers to literary heritage for children. Featuring a answers? Musicians, performers, poets Norse mythology and Bollywood Jazz curate the art installations, performances, ram-packed poetry programme, brand and artists are invited to perform and to the ever-alluring Christmas markets lighting and sculptures in and around new fun themed weekends, a one-off participate under the eternal Malcolm Previous editions have seen Chris Stewart, voices in his head - sure they eventually and the varied yuletide celebrations, this Saltwell Park. Equally impressive is Susan special concert for babies, and a line-up of Hardee caveat. Audience members, either aka ‘the master in alabaster’, in action with got the best of him, but we soldier on. seasonal festival promises something for Mulholland’s repertoire. Having written storytelling and creative workshops led real or imagined, will have their knowledge audiences sat back aghast to personal Danny Falana, the Las Vegas lounge singer, everyone. The intention of seducing us theatre productions and theatre-related by a host of inspiring authors, playwrights of dead darts players and dead horses revelations. The thinking man’s Daniel Kitson also crooned his way through the hits away from our cosy, warm sofas whilst works for over ten years, her work for and illustrators – there really will be tested until a small knitted character was last seen shooting down an audience as both ladies and gentlemen swooned we subject ourselves to yet another Northern Stage is remarkably notable. something for everyone to enjoy. screams accusatory profanities, bringing an interruption with a torrent of sedimentary under his magnetic glare. Think Andy showing of Home Alone (which, by the Such a collaboration of expertise will So don’t be putting away those festival uncomfortable halt to proceedings. rock-based put down’s without missing a Kaufman meets Bob Mortimer meets a way, can be subjected to on a grandiose mean the show should be nothing short wellies just yet, wrap up warm and Live colouring in, dadaist poetry recitals beat. Ryan Siddall, aka ‘Bugman’, on his last young Frank Sinatra for one night only. scale as part of the festival, on the big of spectacular, I’m sure. In previous years, explore the magic and traditions from along with the anointing of popes happen visit belted out a full set of sublime post-punk The Cutty Bang Cabaret Show VI takes screen, alongside live performances by Enchanted Parks has proven to be a around the world at NewcastleGateshead more often than not. Expect to see a fur masterpieces, literally jaw dropping! I suggest place at Musiclounge, Stockton on Sunday the Royal Northern Sinfonia) could be massive success and has played a key part Winter Festival. suited polar bear setting the world to you check out Anoracksicks from Burglarize 10th December and it’s free entry. feasible with what is on offer. However, in the festival. Gateshead Council Cabinet For more information about the festival rights, a bum ghost attempting to explain This! and Pylons after Pylons from Volley The event is perfect for fans of Arthur there is one event which is sure to lure Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, please head to newcastlegateshead.com/ his crisp-based fetishes and a man singing Chimp. Matt West, aka ‘Ian West’, delivered Cravan, Jacques Rigaut, Julien Torma & us into the cold and that is Enchanted Angela Douglas, has described Enchanted winter-festival. an ode to his bag of wind. an amazing set despite the screaming donkey Jacques Vache.

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NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER ART: COMEDY: KALPANA’S WARRIORS PATRICK MONAHAN + AT BAMBURGH HOUSE, SUPPORT AT TUNED IN!, NEWCASTLE REDCAR Photography by Zoe Maxwell Written by John Paul McQue NEPN and Breeze Creatives will present Patrick Monahan will make his way to Kalpana’s Warriors, a photographic Redcar this month for a Christmas exhibition by leading international the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), which the sparse conditions of Kalpana’s home comedy spectacular. As seen on BBC photographer Shahidul Alam, as part of began in 1977 soon after the Bangladesh where she slept on the floor on a straw One’s ‘Let’s Dance for Sport Relief’ Freedom City 2017. Kalpana Chakma state came into being, continues to this mat. Shahidul Alam said: “I wanted the and ITV’s ‘Splash’, Pat is a regular on was a vocal and charismatic leader who day in spite of a peace treaty negotiated portraits to be burned onto the straw the UK comedy circuit and has been Magners’ Comedian of the Year in 2007. Comedy Festival 2012 Comedian of the campaigned for the rights of indigenous in 1997 between the state and the pahari mats by a laser beam to remind the extremely popular for a long time thanks As seen on ITV’s ‘FHM Comedy Hero’, and Year, a finalist in the Comedy Store’s people in the Chittagong Hill Tracts people. Amnesty International reports viewer of the fires deliberately set by to his chatty, friendly style and hilarious having performed at the highly-respected Costa Light competition in 2011 and area of Bangladesh. She was abducted that more than 100,000 pahari have been the authorities who had burnt the pahari storytelling. Not only one of the biggest Big Value Comedy Showcase in Edinburgh she is a previous winner of the much from her home at gunpoint over 20 displaced by the conflict. There have been villages – something that Kalpana was names on the comedy circuit, Pat is also in 2011, Carl performed his first solo hour sought-after Peter Ackermann Comedy years ago by a military officer and multiple reports of human rights violations, protesting about in her last confrontation highly in demand as a studio warm-up, at the 2012 Edinburgh Festival where it was Award - an award for outstanding two members of the Village Defence massacres and the razing of entire villages with the military.” Alongside the portraits, working on shows such as ‘Friday Night shortlisted in the Amused Moose Awards comedy performances, awarded annually Party and has never been seen again. by Bangladeshi forces. The portraits of a series of prints explore the internal with Jonathan Ross’ and ‘The IT Crowd’; and received outstanding reviews from all of by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Through this powerful installation, using Kalpana’s warriors – those who have displacement of the paharis and the and he’s often seen on-screen on ‘The the major festival press. This show, which takes place on Saturday photographs printed on large straw mats, refused to let go of her memory and legacy arrival of the government-backed Bangali Paul O’Grady Show’ as well as appearing Hosting this merry gigglefest is Abi Roberts 16th December, will also feature Monty the acclaimed Bangladeshi photographer, – were created using laser etching on straw settlers. The exhibition will run between on various Comedy Central programmes. who exploded onto the stand-up comedy Burns and Anth Young. artist and activist Shahidul Alam attempts mats. This innovative technique, developed Friday 1st December and Thursday 11th Joining Pat we have multi-award winning scene in 2011 after a number of years Tickets, priced at £20.00 (which also to break the silence surrounding her specifically for this exhibition, is rooted in January with an artist talk taking place at comedian Carl Hutchinson, having won as a musical and cabaret performer. She includes a hog roast) are available from disappearance.The ethnic conflict in the everyday realities of the people and 6:00pm on Friday 8th December. the Beat The Frog World Series and was a finalist in the prestigious Harrogate Tuned In!, Redcar and seetickets.com.

EVENT: COMEDY: DEAR ESTHER JON RICHARDSON AT SAGE, GATESHEAD AT NEWCASTLE CITY HALL

Written by Paul Kemp Written by Adam Urwin

Over the last twenty years, video games Everyone’s favourite OCD comic, Jon have gone from strength to strength Richardson, makes his way to Newcastle with the medium finding its place in the this month on a nationwide tour with annals of cultural history and managing his new show, ‘Old Man’. to mix, rather easily, with other forms Jon Richardson might look like a man of entertainment. The upcoming UK with youth on his side, but don’t be tour of Dear Esther is a great example fooled by that youthful face as he’s truly of this, with the video game platform an old man trapped inside a young man’s to say, Richardson is an incredibly driven taking the rubbish out to Trump, there set to harmoniously blend with live body. Anecdotes from fellow stand-up individual and has continually kept himself is always something worth complaining performance when the show comes to the preconceptions of video games. And exciting prospect.The event takes place and friend, Russell Howard – his old flat busy in the entertainment industry. In about. Breakout the Werther’s Originals the Sage, Gateshead this coming January. of course, the game has been edited to on Sunday 21st January from 8:00pm. mate – including charging an itemised 2011, he took over as a team captain on and your most colourful cardigan, the Dear Esther is an ethereal, dramatic go with the performance aspect.It sounds If you want to go see the show, tickets bill for cleaning their apartment, are a ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’, a show which has old man is about to take to the stage. indie game that delves into the idea of like it’s going to be a unique experience are on sale now and you can obtain clear sign of this ‘old-before-his-time’ also evolved into ‘8 Out of 10 Cats Does Jon Richardson will perform at City Hall, human nature. It’s a far cry from FIFA for fans of video games or orchestral them by calling 0191 443 4661 or mentality. With early success through Countdown’ (2012), arguably one of his Newcastle on Saturday 9rd December. or Skyrim and its artistic potential has performances. And what’s more is that by heading to sagegateshead.com BBC’s New Talent Comedy in 2003, greatest successes outside of stand-up. Tickets, priced at £23.50 in advance, bled into the world of classical music this will be the first time in its history where you can also find out further Richardson went from strength to On stage, Richardson has 2 DVDs to his are available from theatreroyal.co.uk/ as it’s being played live in front of an that the Sage will be showing a live playing information about this unique event. strength in the realms of comedy which name, ‘Funny Magnet’ (2012) and ‘Nidiot’ whats-on. For telephone bookings audience alongside an orchestra, singers of a video game. It’s safe to say, however, Tickets are priced at £19.90 (£15.60 for included success at the Edinburgh Fringe (2014). His gripes with the world are a and enquiries, please call the venue on and a composer. It’s a truly eclectic idea that the same goes in many venues across concessions). Festival and on radio, with shows on common theme among his shows and ‘Old 08448 11 21 21. that bends the mind as well it does to the UK, making this break in tradition an both BBC Radio 6 and 5 Live. Needless Man’ is set to continue this trend. From

20 21 NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER NE VOLUME CULTURE CORNER COMEDY: DANCE: THE DISCOUNT COMEDY GHOST DANCES AT CHECKOUT + JACK THEATRE ROYAL, GLEADOW + RIVKA NEWCASTLE UTTLEY + CALLUM Written by Paul Kemp OAKLEY + TED HANKY Photography by Jane Hobson AT MUSICLOUNGE, should have.The Discount Comedy Checkout Young and lively comedian, Callum Oakley, Christopher Bruce’s seminal work as headline the night with their not to be missed made his TV debut in 2012 and has choreographer of Ballet Rambert will be STOCKTON improv show. The super quick-witted troupe continued to delight audiences up and celebrated in February at the Theatre Who knows, it could inspire a whole new performance is British neo-classical has an almost telepathic connection with each down the country on the comedy circuit. Royal in Newcastle, as the famous generation of dancers. composer, Ilan Eshkeri. Written by John Paul McQue other as they turn your seemingly innocuous He’s another future star promising to bring company will be taking the stage with As well as ‘Ghost Dances’, theatre-goers As well as the performance, on suggestions into breathtaking fits of laughter. the funny!Ted Hanky will host the night. ‘Ghost Dances and Other Works’. will get to see a double bill of newer Wednesday 7th February, the Theatre The meteoric rise of the Shoe Cake Jack Gleadow swept the board this year with The self-proclaimed ‘fan of the bush’ will no Many working contemporary dancers performances as rising star Ben Duke Royal will also host an artist talk where Comedy Club has been nothing less than a whole host of awards and accolades. His doubt be whipping out his magic asparagus would cite ‘Ghost Dances’ as a piece will unleash his new dance theatre piece members of the public can join members spectacular! Quickly becoming a byword main influences are Lee Evans, Lee Mack, and entertaining the Stockton crowd that inspired them during their formative entitled ‘Goat’. Inspired by the life and of the cast for an event which is sure to for new and exciting comedy, stale gong Frank Skinner and Tim Vine and it surely won’t with feats of magic, pulling techniques and years. It’s also considered to be the most music of soul legend Nina Simone, some of be informative and engaging. shows and overpriced pro nights crumble be long before he is held in the same regard, cringe-worthy tales from his childhood. famous and influential work to come her best songs will be performed onstage ‘Rambert: Ghost Dances and Other by the wayside as a mix of established acts and rightly so. Rivka Uttley is another hidden This spectacular comedy show takes place out of Rambert in its long and illustrious in what is bound to be a treat for Nina Works’ will run from Tuesday 6th to and new exciting talent rock the minds gem and she goes way beyond her persona of at Musiclounge, Stockton on Thursday existence as a dance company. The fact Simone fans and newbies alike. Thursday 8th February 2018 at 7.30pm, of audiences in side-splitting line-ups in cat-lady and crochet enthusiast. Her stories 7th December. Tickets, priced at £6.00 in that it’s coming to the North East is a Third in the triple bill will be a performance with a matinee performance taking place Stockton and Hartlepool.This Xmas weave subtle nuances and are intertwined advance, are available from skiddle.com. great chance for dance and performing of ‘Symbiosis’, a new piece from the at 2:00pm on the Thursday. edition, in Stockton, once again looks to with killer punchlines as they take you on an Tickets on the door are priced at £8.00. arts students across the region to go and internationally-acclaimed choreographer, Tickets, starting at £12.00, are available deliver everything that a great comedy night unexpected yet hilarious journey. see this important piece of dance history. Andonis Foniadakis. Scoring the from theatreroyal.co.uk. ART: SOFIA STEVI AT BALTIC, GATESHEAD Written by Paul Kemp

The BALTIC in Gateshead will be seeing out the old year and welcoming in the new with the debut public exhibition from artist Sofia Stevi. Sofia Stevi was born in Greece in 1982 and studied art in London at Central Saint Martins. She is also the co-founder of Fokidos, an artist-run space where Stevi curates and hosts events regularly. Sofia’s work usually takes the form of different. You might find yourself stood concessions (students, unwaged and paintings and sculpture. Her style is in front of these pieces of art for a few 60+).The exhibition will be on display playful with a hint of innocence, and she minutes at a time, lost in its playfulness. from Friday 15th December and will run plays with colour in such a way that lets As well as the exhibition, Sofia Stevi herself until Sunday 22nd April 2018, giving you you into her mind as both an artist and will be holding an artist talk on Friday plenty of time to go and discover this as a person. 15th December to kick off the exhibition. talented artist. Her use of shape blends the ideas of She will be discussing everything from And keeping in mind that this is Stevi’s abstract form and concise objects in her inspiration, processes and what she debut exhibition in the UK, I thoroughly such a way that it throws you off in the hopes to achieve in the future. If you enjoy recommend you go and experience this best way possible. It’s an aesthetic that getting under the skin of an artist and new art for yourselves. has wide appeal as well as a certain their work, I thoroughly recommend you For further information please head to fringe quality that makes it refreshingly attend. Tickets cost £4.00, or £2.50 for balticmill.com.

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Photography by Steph Clayton

ARTISTSPOTLIGHT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT “I think the greatest achievement is managing “A strong element of the music fan community PHASE to keep Phase going” LIFE OF VINYL still prefer vinyl instead of downloads”

Written by Kyrie Morris outpour of positive reviews throughout to be: “I think the greatest achievement is Written by Damian Robinson the ‘hook’ which we use to create, and Whether a lover of vinyl, record players, the region, as well as been described by managing to keep Phase going, despite all recall, memories. An independent study by music memorabilia or books, Life of Vinyl From Larissa in Greece to the northern renowned singer-songwriter Alan Clayson of the obstacles throughout the years”. Growing up as music fans I’m sure some, Manchester University earlier this century clearly sets out its mission to encourage city of Newcastle, Phase sure have a story as: “A wondrous reconciliation of the instant And continue they will, as the lads are if not all, of our most cherished memories found that fans of music tend to favour their music lovers to take their time and really to tell, both geographically and musically. familiar, and a vista into the unknown.” Their ready to celebrate the 7-year anniversary entered, and remained, in our consciousness hearing and touch senses. This may explain listen to, and touch, music in an environment Formed around the sheer talents of second full-length album, ‘The Wait’, was since the release of their critically because of the sounds we were hearing at why we spend so much time in record stores; which has clearly been designed for music Thanos Grigoriou, Damos Harharidis and released on 19th April 2014 and was met acclaimed debut, ‘In Consequence’. the time of the activities. Perhaps the reason essentially we like to hear new sounds and lovers, by music lovers. Knowledgeable, Vasilis Liapis, the alternative progressive- with mutual hype and excitement. As well as Fans can expect the album to aire we have such a vivid memory of our school touch new items (like records). New music is customer friendly and witty, the Life of rock four-piece have employed a sound their body of distinguishable material, Phase with much more maturity, as the band disco, or the first time we got drunk, or our important to us, not only because we enjoy it, Vinyl team are an interesting bunch as that has drawn comparisons to such have much to be proud of. Over recent have grown even more in strength and first football match is not because of the but also because new, and interesting, sounds proved by the conversation we struck up artists as Anathema, Porcupine Tree, The years, they have received airplay on the BBC comradeship over recent years. They’re activity itself, but because of its soundtrack. stimulate our brains and create memories with Debbie about diverse music interests Tea Party and Alice in Chains. The band from their prolific DJ, Tom Robinson; not to set to celebrate in what they consider to For me, it tends to be the soundtrack that that we enjoy recalling. When I caught up with such as new vinyl’s to the store (“Frank played an array of shows intermittently mention being featured in Billboard, achieving be the most appropriate way: “On stage I remember first when recalling those Debbie Cockerill, the manager of Stockton- Sinatra and Sam Smith”), the first records from 2003 up until 2008, when they #42 in the ‘Uncharted’ chart and #12 in with good friends.” A range of merch will memories. In the three examples I chose, based super record store, Life of Vinyl, she she bought (“10cc’s ‘I’m Mandy Fly Me’ and released their debut digital single the ‘Fastest Rising Act’ chart. Geography also be available to commemorate the for instance, that would read Bowie’s ‘Let’s made a similar correlation between (some) first LP Deep Purple’s ‘Machine Head’”) and ‘Perdition’ under Microsoft’s ‘Playlist Seven’ poses no threat to the four-piece. From occasion, including items such as a digipack Dance’, Whighfield’s ‘Saturday Night’ and music lovers and their preference for: “tangible, how to look after newly acquired LPs (“No campaign for the release of Windows all the safe territories in the world, Phase CD with alternative artwork, and T-shirts Springsteen’s ‘I’m Going Down’ (some analogue products over digital music,” extremes in temperature, keep records 7, a collaboration that frontman Thanos completed a tour of the Middle East in 2011, branded with Phase’s past tour landmarks tracks worth sticking in my mind, one referencing her belief that a strong element standing straight up, use clear sleeves and Grigoriou considers to be one of Phase’s becoming the second international rock and dates. And no celebration is complete not so much). According to Dr. Richard of the music fan community still prefer make sure the stylus on your record player proudest achievements. ‘Perdition’ is band to ever play there, The Gorillaz being without a gig, so Phase will be heading to Huganir, memories are created as a “vinyl instead of downloads, books instead is never worn down”). For fans of music regarded as ‘a first of many’ and is notably the first. Frontman Thanos emphasised the Newcastle on Thursday 21st December response to having experiences and the of e-Books, as well as comics and artwork. driven by their touch and feeling senses, the tune that made the difference. It’s importance of the gig, and why it felt so where they’ll be taking to the stage in Red way that those experiences are processed Having something tangible to feel and look at locations like Life of Vinyl will always be the first song the band finished writing, special for the band: “A life-changing moment Bar, located at Northumbria Institute 2. through one (or more) of our five senses is certainly important to a certain section of more important than almost any type of the first song the band rehearsed and was the Syrian gig, because it was at the Gig revellers can expect a nostalgic (sight, taste, hearing, smell and touch). Our music lovers”.Welcoming and friendly, with a store; and more emotive than downloading the first song they played live. It’s widely beginning of Phase getting to know people evening laced with punk rock and senses stimulate our neurology and create great soundtrack to increase the likelihood of music digitally. The next time you’re looking regarded as the track that truly snares there that had to flee their homes after their revisited riffs, a combination that is sure to memories, therefore the greater we sense forming strong memories, Debbie has designed to create some lasting memories we’d the essence of Phase, gracefully capturing country mates turned on each other - it summon an electrical atmosphere from something the more memorable that Life of Vinyl to be more than just a record recommend you headed on down. Life of the characteristics of their unique style. had a massive impact on us.”Regardless of the get-go. Don’t miss out. experience becomes. As music fans, it’s likely store but: “a place music lovers can go and fully Vinyl is located at The Hambleton Business The release of their debut single was these amazing accomplishments, Grigoriou For further information about Phase and that we favour our auditory senses to ‘the immerse their senses in the record buying Centre, Fleck Way in Teesside Industrial closely followed by their first album, remained humble in acknowledging what he their upcoming Newcastle date head to other four’, meaning that the soundtrack experience”. The instant gratification of a digital Estate. For further information please head ‘In Consequence’, which received an considers the band’s greatest achievement Facebook.com/Phaseband. we hear during our experiences becomes download isn’t to be championed in this store. to lifeofvinyl.com.

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Photography by ENA Photography Photography by ENA Photography

VINYL AT RIVERSIDE LOUNGE, STOCKTON X-MAS BOX FESTIVAL, DARLINGTON

Written by Laura Boland difference to sitting in one of Stockton’s dinghy pubs Written by Rebecca Schott the Darlington music collective, Tracks, with help from with ‘Wizzard’s’ ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ Darlington BID, put on two shows last December, Festive If you’re a big fan of music, art, and are over 18 years of blaring loudly in the background. The line-up includes Celebrate the Christmas season in Darlington by Folktown and Darlo Ho-Ho-Ho. He says: “Both events age, then Stockton offers the perfect night out for you. headliners from South Yorkshire, Late Night Legacy, with heading to a showcase of some of the finest performers attracted crowds of around 200 and introduced people, Music/art event, ‘Vinyl’, is held at Riverside Lounge on support from Lost in the Crowd and Hartlepool’s Abbey in the North East at the X-mas Box Music Festival. who might not normally come out to watch live music, a monthly basis and includes original bands and music- Burns kicking the night off.There will also be a chance Following on from the success of the Music Box Festival to what was going on in the local music scene.”Now this related art and photography. for folks to stock up on those final Christmas prezzies over the last two summers, the Darlington-based year, teaming up with Fifth Arch Brewery, Butterfly Effect “Music and art go so well together, you know?” Says Ian as there will be photography and artwork for sale as festival returns for a Christmas special this month Records and the two venues, David is aiming: “to try and Allcock who co-organises and promotes ‘Vinyl’ along well as visiting artists and crafters Dianne Bowell and and will feature an array of acts including indie bands, bring a little seasonal cheer to the town.” Although the with Lauren Duncan. “‘Vinyl’ was born out of a charity PEG Creations showing their wares.‘Vinyl’ in January will synth and electronic acts as well as acoustic and folk Christmas event will still be bringing the same level of night we did back in May for Raindrops to Rainbows be held on the 26th and is set to be an amazing night. performers.X-mas Box Festival will be taking place quality North Eastern music, the X-mas Box Festival aims (a perinatal mental health charity doing great work on The fantastic North Yorkshire based alternative hip-hop across two venues in Darlington town centre, with an to differ from its summer counterpart, Music Box. David Teesside with families affected by postnatal depression). group, Ceiling Demons, are headlining the event and acoustic ‘Rooftop Grotto Stage’ noted: “The main difference [between the Riverside Lounge loved what are supported by The Rhyme Molesters at Hash Bar and two more upbeat two events] is the vibe of the festival as we did and asked us to consider and Consept&D6ixS. “There is specially stages at Avalon: the ‘Winter “IT’S REALLY we’re aware that people either want lovely running a regular live event so we commissioned artwork from locally Wonderland Stage’ and the ‘Retro angelic sounds or disco/party bangers got our collective, creative heads “MUSIC AND recognised graffiti artists plus some Yuletide Stage,’ with each stage IMPORTANT THAT at X-mas, so that’s been reflected in the together and ‘Vinyl’ is the result.” amazing photography too,” Ian tells me. offering a different music genre SMALL TOWNS LIKE programming”. Stephen Gill from Butterfly ‘Vinyl’ is a free event, so it won’t ART GO SO WELL “Can you tell we are excited about with even more variety within Effect Records added: “It’s really important leave you staring at your bank this?” he adds. ‘Vinyl’ is run by people their impressive respective line-ups. DARLINGTON CONTINUE that small towns like Darlington continue balance with a deep feeling of TOGETHER” who are passionate about both music The ‘Winter Wonderland Stage’ to showcase its original artists as well as despair and regret. The event is and art. And as gig-goers themselves, promises an “enchanted outdoor TO SHOWCASE ITS bringing other acts, doing well in the region, a win-win situation for everyone: they make sure that everything is exactly utopia” of indie music. Some of the ORIGINAL ARTISTS” to its venues. It makes us part of what is a the public doesn’t have to pay to get in, the bands get how they’d want it to be if they were best up-and-coming indie acts in thriving North East scene.” paid a decent fee for gracing Riverside Lounge with attending. It’s early days for ‘Vinyl’(December will be its the North East will be playing at the seasonal festival Owner of Fifth Arch Brewery and Avalon, their presence, and it offers the artists a platform 5th night), but despite it being a fairly new event they including The Circus Villains, Abel Raise the Cain, Sonder Dave Johnson, says: “We’re absolutely blessed with a for their work. “The feedback we are getting from already have some great acts lined up to take part.‘Vinyl’ Minds, The Broken Broadcast and The Dead Seat. Back great choice of local talent” and that after the success musicians, artists, photographers, and gig-goers is is a breath of fresh air for Stockton, as it gives locals inside at Avalon, you will find the ‘Retro Yuletide Stage’ of Music Box over the last two years, “It [made] perfect absolutely amazing,” says a very proud Ian. access to something that wasn’t really available in which will have a more synthetic vibe inspired by sounds sense to unleash X-mas Box”. As well as the range of If you’re wondering what to expect from a night at Stockton before. When I asked Ian what he’d say in of the 80s and electro-pop. The line-up consists of Twist music, promises have been made of festive decorations, ‘Vinyl’, doors usually open at 7:00pm and the first band around ten words to convince people to attend he said: Helix, Ronald Raygun, Lost State of Dance, Shamu and Christmas film projections, seasonal food and drinks is on by 8:30pm. The event usually has three different “Vinyl’ is different: it’s music and art together, and it’s The Shooting Of. However, if chilled-out cosy acoustic and other seasonal surprises. And if that wasn’t enough, bands playing their original material (covers aren’t free, so come and be part of ‘Vinyl’.” performances are more your vibe then you can head there’s an after-show party at Hole in the Wall just across allowed) and there’s usually a mix of local artists and If you find yourself free on Friday 15th December or over to Hash Bar. The intimate ‘Rooftop Grotto Stage’ the town centre to complete a perfect evening of music photographers that display their work, providing the Monday 26th January then why not find your way down is described as a “secret festive hideaway”, with soft and festivities. The X-mas Box Festival takes place on creatives of the North East with another outlet to to Riverside Lounge in Stockton for a brilliant live folk and pop performances to come from Ridley Sunday 17th December with doors opening at 4:00pm. showcase their work to the public. ‘Vinyl’ in December gig experience and get your hands on some fantastic Woof, George Boomsma, Eve Conway, Danny Devon, Tickets can be bought online via Skiddle for £5.00 or are is on the 15th of the month and will make a delightful artwork? Aubrey Esme, and Anna Stephens. David Saunders from £8.00 on the door. This event is for over 18s only.

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NE VOLUME MAIN FEATURE // TOP 10 NORTH EAST ARTISTS 2018 NE VOLUME MAIN FEATURE // TOP 10 NORTH EAST ARTISTS 2018 NE VOLUME’S TOP 10 NORTH EAST ARTISTS/BANDS TO SEE LIVE IN 2018 Written by NE Volume Editor - Lee Allcock #2 CAPE CUB #3 MOUSES #4 VELVOIR This wasn’t an easy decision as there are so many fantastic artists/bands Teesside-based indie pop band Cape Cub, This lo-fi duo from Billingham know exactly Newcastle’s Velvoir are, well, how can I put together by Saltburn’s Chad Male, have how to put on a live show, with frontman put it - they’re different. With their artsy coming out of the North East at the moment and my list could have been come on leaps and bounds since their Steven Bardgett typically jumping into the and unique take on the human condition, 50+. But after a long, hard think here are the top 10 North East artists/bands formation. Having received over a million crowd to scream at the top of his lungs and they’re well-known for their mind-bending Spotify plays for tracks such as ‘Keep Me drummer Nathan Duff always playing with performances that will have you questioning that I personally think you should see live in 2018: in Mind’ and ‘All I Need ‘, I’m expecting big vigour and ferocity. your own existence. things from them this year – especially with their new line-up.

#5 AVALANCE PARTY #6 THE VOLUNTEARS #7 SAMANTHA DURNAN Everything about Avalanche Party is chaotic. Surely one of the most hard working bands The Teesside songstress, whose vocals are Their name, image and sound are a hectic the North East has to offer, the blues-tinged always flawless, never fails to pull on the mix of garage and punk rock that has crept rockers from Durham have continued to heart strings. She may have been a major its way out of the North Yorkshire Moors perform at some of the biggest events and part of the Teesside music scene for quite into the sleeping public domain. They’re venues the region has to offer, including the some time, but I’m just waiting for her anthemic, simplistic and loud in all the right 02 Academy, Times Square and Hardwick to receive the recognition she so truly places. Live. deserves. #1 THE PALE WHITE #8 FEVA #9 TWISTER #10 TWIST HELIX These Newcastle garage rockers have supported the likes of The Newcastle indie rockers Feva, who will Twister are another band who have The synth-pop outfit from Newcastle support The Pale White at Riverside in worked their socks off to make a name draw on inspiration from their North East Libertines this year and also played main stage at Hardwick Live. Newcastle in January, will also play a sold-out for themselves across the North East. And surroundings, and goings-on, in order to gig at Jumpin’ Jacks in December; showing having recently played a packed Georgian create powerful narratives that North East They’re set to play their biggest headline gig to date as they head immense popularity and I can only see their Theatre in Stockton, it’s only a matter of music lovers can relate to, such as the closing popularity growing throughout 2018. time before North East music lovers stand of art spaces. to Riverside, Newcastle in January. up and truly listen.

Front cover and The Pale White: Photography by Daniel Stark | Cape Cub and Samantha Durnan: Photography by Jodie Canwell 30 Mouses: Photography by Hana Marie Photography | Twist Helix: Photography: Paul Murray Media. 31 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL BILLY OCEAN NATALIE MCCOOL "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” "The North East crowd must be the “You’re in for a fun night!” loudest crowd out there" loudest crowd out there" Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Multi-instrumentalist, Natalie McCool heads to The Cluny 2, Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Legendary R&B singer-songwriter, Billy Ocean heads to the Newcastle on Thursday 16th March so Nathan Douthwaite Sage, Gateshead on Friday 7th April so Damian Robinson caught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, Sage, Gateshead on FridayHAPPY 7th April so Damian Robinson MONDAYScaught up with her to discuss her new album, the North East, caught up with him. CARA DILLONand touring. caught up with him. and touring. You’re bringing your“I ‘Herewould You Are love - the Bestto ofbe Tour’ able to to You’vebring just releaseda genuine your debut album,sense so whatof kind of reception You’re bringing your ‘Here You Are - the Best of Tour’ to You’ve just released your debut album, so what kind of reception Gateshead. As your most recent album ‘Here You Are’ focuses has it received so far? Gateshead. As“We your mostwere recent pretty album ‘Here much You Are’ focusesat the hasforefront it received so far? of rave culture” both on the songs that have influencedtraditional you and the songs music Reallyto thegreat. There masses” has been so much positive feedback and it’s Asboth part on of the their songs ’24 Hour that haveParty influencedPeople’ tour, you blameand the it on songs the drugs! Really great. There has Inbeen the 80sso much I was positivepretty much feedback stuck andin the it’s Overthat have 20 years, become Cara yourDillon greatest has risen hits to what canfloating we expect about in my headgreat that toneed hear a voice. which songsSo much are personal of the real favourites. meaning ofI’m Christmas really Madchesterthat have become veterans your Happy greatest Mondays hits are what can we expect great to hear which songs60s really,are personal apart from favourites. the likes I’m of Orangereally becomefrom the one show? of the finest exponents Songs always take me by surprise.happy that Two people havehas understood been lost andwhere it has I’m become coming such from a with setfrom to thevisit show?the North East as they take to Do you have a favourite trackhappy when that people haveJuice, understood Echo and where the Bunnymen I’m coming and from New with ofI always traditional play Irish as many songs. of She the brings hits herlive as I can.songs When on you this are album I’ve knownit, with since the themesI was of heartbreakmassive commercial and acceptance enterprise. and I maturity.wanted theI always Stage playof Newcastle’s as many of O2 the Academy hits live on as I can.performing When you live? are it, with the themes of heartbreakOrder. But youand know,acceptance I was listening and maturity. ‘Uponlucky enougha Winter’s to Night’ have hadtour quiteto the a Sage, few hits youeleven must years accept old and had totally forgotten my children to know and sing songs like Fridaylucky enough8th December. to have Kyrie had Morris quite acaught few hits youWe must sort acceptof went out and we took the to everything really, from The Velvet Gatesheadthat the fans this want month to so hear Damian them Robinson and I like playingabout them.them untilI will I found myselfThe tour humming sees you stopping‘O Holy at Night’many differentand ‘ The UKWexford cities...are Carol’ upthat with the frontman fans want Shaun to hear Ryder them for a and little I like playing‘Bummed’ them. album I will out andThe played tour it insees its you stoppingUnderground at many to different The Doors UK andcities...are Northern caughtalso be up doing with aher few for songs a little off chat. the ‘Here You Are’them album, while bakingbut as with mythere children any placesone lazy you haven’tinstead been of ‘All before? I Want For Christmas’ and chat.also be doing a few songs off the ‘Here You Are’entirety album, - and but I hadn’t as listenedthere to any ‘Bummed’ places you haven’tSoul. been before? the album reached No. 4 in the charts, the fansSunday know afternoon. them as It’s almostI’m likereally the looking songs forward‘Santa to Baby’. playing at The Cluny having heard the album reached No. 4 in the charts, the fanssince know we left them the studioas inI’m 1988. really I had looking to forward to playing at The Cluny having heard Yourwell asnew the album older ‘Wanderer’ ones. has been rise to the surface when theso manytime isgreat right things - about that venue! Newcastle is a beautiful It’swell been as thethirty older years ones. since the release of listen to it again, learn it againso many and it great was like,things aboutManchester that venue! has always Newcastle been a is renowned a beautiful gaining critical acclaim, including a 4-star they just find me. city. I played a Sofar SoundsYou’ve there been lastan active year whichartist for was over incredible. 2 your debut album, ‘Squirrel and G-Man wow! It’s pretty good. So city.yeah, I Iplayed just treat a Sofar Soundslocation there for lastspawning year whichmusical was talent. incredible. In your reviewYou seem in the to Guardian. really enjoy How being have onyou stage and performing live. decades. What artistic aspirations still Twenty-FourYou seem to Hour really Party enjoy People being Plastic on stage Face and themperforming all as one live. body of work and I enjoy opinion, who is the best artist to be born foundIs playing the reactionlive your to favourite the album part and ofis being a musician?And what inspires your originalDo you think you’ll tryremain do any for touristy you? things whilst on the tour? CarntIs playing Smile live (White your Out)’.favourite How part does of it beingfeel a musician?the lot of it. Do you think you’ll tryfrom do any the touristycity? things whilst on the tour? criticalI really acclaim enjoy playingimportant live. to When you? I am on the stagecompositions? hearing the Well we had a good lookI’m aroundextremely on critical our last of tourmyself so (possibly this time to toI really be hitting enjoy the playing road again live. Whenas part Iof am your on the stage hearing the Well we had a good lookGod, around I think onThe our Hollies last tourhave gotso thisto be time Icrowd am absolutely sing along thrilled to the with songs the response it’s a great feeling.I feel Whenlike I’ve Isuddenly give foundwe willa new have place to visit somea fault) different and I never attractions. like listening We visited back to my anniversarycrowd sing celebrations?along to the songs it’s a great feeling.Happy When Mondays I give have playedwe somewill have iconic to visit someManchester’s different bestattractions. ever band. We And visited Graham we’veout to had the to audience ‘Wanderer’. and When they wegive sit back it makesin my a headfantastic where lyrics andQueensferry melodies flow in Edinburgh vocals last as timeI will wepick played pick pick. which I’m wasall about I’mout not to thejust sayingaudience this becauseand they I’ve give got back a it makesfestivals a fantastic and venues throughoutQueensferry the years, in EdinburghNash last and time all that we crewplayed are which just out was of this downnight whereto record we an can album all forget I always about think ourto troubleseasily and naturally,for a especiallybeautiful. when We I am haven’t actuallythe song been and tofeel the that Angel it must of thetransport North, so tournight to where promote, we butcan it’sall moreforget exciting about andour troublesfrom Glastonburyand for a to Fuji beautiful.Rock in Japan. We haven’t Is actuallyworld! been to the Angel of the North, so myselfcouple “well, of hours if I like have this songfun. Ithen like surelyto make it a partyout for vibe. walks as nature is willso inspiringhave to fortake a trip youup thereto a different this time time around! and dimension. bettercouple than of hours ever now. have The fun. Mondays I like to are make it a partythere anyvibe. particular gig thatwill sticks have into your take a trip up there this time around! someone else out there will appreciate it the soul. ‘The Leaving Song’ was inspired by Music is a sacred art for me: it’s healing playing better than ever and we’re all getting memory? Thirty years is a pretty special anniversary. too”.You tendHowever, to bring I would your be tours torturing to themyself North Eaststories of myEngland mother told meYour about music her career great has andhad therapeutic some pretty both amazing to the moments artist and sothe far, alongYou tend better to than bring ever. your We’re tours a lot to older, the andNorth EastRock of in EnglandRio stands out massively;Your music it was career our has Canhad gig-goerssome pretty expect amazing any additional moments so far, ifquite I tried a lot.to imagine What dogetting you amazing enjoy the reviews most aboutuncles the emigrating ‘up north’ to America.but what‘The Lakesidewould you saylistener is your and favourite so I hold moment myself to to really date? high Iquite was goinga lot. toWhat say wiser do you but enjoy yeah, we’rethe most just aboutfirst the time ‘up in north’ Brazil and it butwas whata pretty would mad you saysurprises is your fromfavourite your momentset? to date? allcrowd? the time - that’s a dangerous path to go Swans’ is about the refugeeMy and favourite migration moment standardsis getting playlistedand do my on absolute BBC Radio best at 1 alljust ascrowd? daft. So yeah, it’s a lot more enjoyable and time! We should have onlyMy been favourite there formoment We’reis getting going playlisted to do stuff on thatBBC we Radio haven’t 1 just down.It’s just a great crowd. I must say, the North crisisEast crowdthroughout must the Mediterraneanbecause I felt and so happytimes. that lotsI’ve beenof people very luckylike me to werehave sunggoing on to weIt’s just appreciatea great crowd. what we’reI must doing say, now.the North fourEast dayscrowd and must we ended upbecause there forI felt nearly so happy played that lots since of 1982;people stuff like like me ‘Freaky were Dancing’going to be the loudest crowd out there. how easy it is to tar all withbe thelistening same tobrush. my music!a wide It was range an amazingof interesting feeling. and successful be the loudest crowd out there. two weeks. Our gear wentbe missing listening and to my music!and It the was likes an ofamazing that. We feeling. are pulling out a ‘Wanderer’ is made up of original projects, but I suppose I would love to be As well as your debut album, your other we should have been playing with George few songs off the first album and some of compositionsFinally, what doesand covers the immediate of traditional future bringYou’ll for yoube bringing and can your ‘UponFinally, a Winter’s is there anythingable you to want bring to a genuinesay to the sense people of traditional coming recordsFinally, what from doesthroughout the immediate the years future bringMichael for you but and we can ended upFinally, playing is with there A-Ha anything the you singles want that to saywe tohave the never people really coming done ballads.we look How forward do you to pick some which new songs material you in 2017?Night’ tour to the region.to What see canyou? we music to the masses some day. havewe look equally forward as interesting to some titles. new From material in 2017?and had this completely madto see time you? there, so since the early 80s, so it’s going be a pretty cover?I have a full year of touring the world, but I amexpect making from time the show? You’re in for a fun night! There will be sing-songs and some ‘Madchester’I have a full yearto ‘Bummed’, of touring would the youworld, but I amthat making will always time stick out!You’re in for a fun night!special There mix. will be sing-songs and some Everyto write time new I complete songs for an albuman album I have to this be releasedChristmas in 2018. is so importantswearing, to me and but our you’ll haveCara a great Dillon time! plays the Sage, Gateshead sayto writethat the new emerging songs 90sfor anrave album culture to be released in 2018. swearing, but you’ll have a great time! terrible fear that I may never find enough family. I was keen to record a Christmas on Friday 8th December. Tickets, priced influenced your choice in album names? You’ve been an influence for many bands Happy Mondays will play Newcastle‘s greatTickets, songs priced to make between another £24.19 album. - And £48.38, arealbum available that fromwould captureTickets, the true priced essence at £7.70at (including £24.00 in bookingadvance, arefee), available are available from Yeah,Tickets, absolutely! priced Webetween were pretty£24.19 much - £48.38, at arethroughout available from the UK, includingTickets, Oasis priced and The at £7.70 02 (including Academy bookingon Friday fee), 8th areDecember. available whensagegateshead.com. the time comes round to record of Christmas; one that spokefrom to thecluny.com. the sagegateshead.com. thesagegateshead.com. forefront of rave culture and ecstasy Stone Roses, but who wouldfrom you thecluny.com. say was Tickets, priced at £33.75, are available from it’s always because I have so many songs listeners of a time of reverence and magic. pretty much shaped the way for all of that - your major influence in the 1980s? ticketmaster.co.uk.

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

You’re“Our bringing yourroots ‘Here Youare Are absolutely - the Best of Tour’ into the tiny,You’ve just stinkyreleased your punk debut album, club so what realm” kind of reception You’re“I hungbringing your about ‘Here You with Are - thesome Best of gloriously Tour’ to funnyYou’ve just charactersreleased your debut back album, so in what the kind ofday” reception PortlandGateshead. Oregon’s As your finest most recentriff slingers, album ‘Hereart You form. Are’ focuses has it received so far? on an emotional level and 2) Gateshead. As your most recent album ‘Here You Are’ focuses has it received so far? Redboth Fang, on the are songs stopping that offhave at influencedThe you and the songs Really great. There has Canbeen keep so much their positive shit together feedback enough and it’s bothThe Twang on the are songs set tothat play have Newcastle’s influenced you wereand the a permanent songs sourceReally of inspiration.great. There has Whenbeen so growing much positive up, I was feedback pretty obsessedand it’s Middlesbroughthat have become Empire your thisgreatest month hits so what canTo we my expect ears, the album isgreat your to most hear which songsto stay are together,personal favourites.go on tour, I’m and really keep thatO2 Academy have become this month your greatest so Kyrie hits Morris what canI guess we expect the fact that bothgreat me to and hear Jon which songswith are listening personal to favourites.bands like I’mNeds, really Carter, Jakefrom Carr the show?Smith had a little chat with ‘radio-friendly’ work, yethappy still thatmaintains people havemaking understood more wheremusic. I’m coming from with fromcaught the up show? with frontman Phil Etheridge were bringing songs to happythe table that meant people haveMondays understood etc. wherewith my I’m brother coming orfrom some with vocalistI always andplay bassas many player, of Aaronthe hits Beam, live as I can.that When ‘rough-around-the-edges’ you are it, with thefeel. themes How of heartbreak and acceptance and maturity. Ito always chat aboutplay as their many upcoming of the hits tour live and as I can.I When was always you are trying to writeit, with a betterthe themes of heartbreakJungle or house and acceptance tapes with and my maturity.mates. aboutlucky enoughthe tour to and have all had things quite Red a fewFang. hits youimportant must accept do you feel melody is in A lot of your music videos feature you luckypast experiences enough to havein the had North quite East. a few hits yousong must than accept him. He’d write an ‘Ice Cream If it gave me goose-bumps and spoke that the fans want to hear them and I like playingheavy them.music? I will The tour sees you stoppingguys chuggingat many differentmany cans UK of cities...are Pabst Blue that the fans want to hear them and I like playingSundae’, them. ‘Push I will the Ghosts’The or tour whatever sees you stoppingabout at my many life, differentthen I was UK having cities...are it and You’realso be stopping doing a fewoff atsongs The off the ‘Here You Are’I think album, it is butparamount! as there Melody any doesn’t places you haven’tRibbon been but before?the beer is (sadly) pretty alsoTen yearsbe doing have a passedfew songs the offworld the by‘Here You Are’and I’dalbum, think but f**k, as I’d betterthere up any my places game. you haven’tabsorbing been as before? much as I could. Middlesbroughthe album reached Empire No. during4 in the your charts, UK the fansmean know pop, them but it as is whereinI’m really the hookslooking forwardimpossible to playing to atcome The Clunyby over having here heard in the thesince album the release reached of No.your 4 iconicin the debutcharts, the fans know them as I’m really looking forward to playing at The Cluny having heard tourwell aswith the Mastodon, older ones. but how important lie, and music without hooksso many is greatmostly things aboutUK. How that venue!will you Newcastle adapt to isthis? a beautiful wellalbum, as ‘Love the older it When ones. I Feel Like This’. As part of your ‘Love Itso When many I greatFeel Likethings aboutWhen that performing venue! Newcastle live, you isseem a beautiful to have is it to you to play these slightly smaller lost on me. Slayer is fullcity. of Ihooks. played You a Sofar SoundsHa! We’ve there beenlast year dealing which with was that incredible. since You must be excited to get back This’ anniversary tour, you’recity. I played set to a takeSofar Soundsa knack there for lastinfecting year which the whole was incredible. crowd stagesYou seem for headlineto really enjoyshows? being on stage and canperforming sing ‘Angel live. of Death’ or ‘Raining the very first time we ever came to Youon the seem road to and really celebrate enjoy being such onan stage and toperforming the stage live.of Newcastle’s O2 Academy. with your undeniable energy. Of all your OurIs playing roots live are your absolutely favourite in thepart tiny, of being a musician?Blood’ right now, I’m sureDo ofyou it. think Or you’ll tryEurope! do any touristyThe first things tour whilst we ever on thedid tour?over Isachievement? playing live your favourite part of being a musician?What are your past experiencesDo you think of you’ll trymaterial, do any touristy ‘Cloudy things Room’, whilst is one on ofthe the tour? stinkyI really punk enjoy club playing realm, live. so When it feels I am very on the stage‘March hearing of the theFire Ants’Well by Mastodon.we had a good lookthere around we had on lotsour lastof people tour so coming this time up IYeah, really we’re enjoy all playing super excited.live. When We I am on the stageplaying hearing to North the East crowds?Well we had a good lookmost around renowned on our crowd last tour pleasers, so this but time naturalcrowd singfor usalong to beto ablethe songsto keep it’s playing a great feeling.For almostWhen Iall give the mostwe successful will have to visit someto us different before attractions.or after the We show visited saying, crowdowe a lotsing to along our mateto the Ian songs Richards it’s a great feeling.I remember When I agive few yearswe before will have we wereto visit someis there different any particularattractions. song We visitedyou enjoy showsout to likethe audiencethat. It’s hard and tothey describe give back the it makesbands, a fantasticno matter how brutal,Queensferry I can in Edinburgh“Hey, last we time know we youplayed guys which love was PBR. We outfrom to the the O2 audience Academy and venues they giveas he’s back it makessigned, a fantastic and I’ve no idea Queensferrywhy, but we in Edinburghplaying last the time most? we played which was differencenight where explicitly. we can Theyall forget have about a very our troublesalmost and guarantee for a you willbeautiful. be able We to haven’t actuallycan’t get been that to overthe Angel here, ofbut the we North, brought so nightalways where believed we incan us allas forgeta band about and he our troublescame andand forplayed a this littlebeautiful. festival We on haven’t the actually‘Cloudy been Room’ to the is kindAngel of of our the odeNorth, to aso similarcouple energy,of hours but have I guess fun. Ithe like thing to make it a partyfind vibe.hooks. will have to take a trip youup there 40 of this our time country’s around! shittiest beers couplewas instrumental of hours have in getting fun. I likethis totour make it a partyriver undervibe. this archwaywill and have this to lad take in a trip clubup there in Brum this timethat wearound! used to go to back about a small club is you can feel the and we made sure they are nice and together. a band called the Metro Sect came up in the day called the Steering Wheel. breathYou tend of tothe bring crowd your on toursyou and to theyou North EastLet’s of talk England about the MastodonYour music tour. career Red has warmhad some from pretty being amazing in our trunkmoments all day.” so far, You tend to bring your tours to the North Eastto us of after England the show sayingYour he music digged career has Somehad some of the pretty best amazing nights of moments my life were so far, feel,quite I adon’t lot. What know, do more you actual enjoy danger.the most aboutFang the and ‘up Mastodon north’ onbut the what same would bill you sayWhen is your I’m favourite in the UK moment I prefer to ciders!date? quiteAs a band, a lot. youWhat have do theyou unique enjoy theability most aboutwhat the we ‘up were north’ doing. Hebut then what invited would you sayspent is your in there, favourite so it’smoment great thatto date? that crowd? just seems to fit. WhatMy is itfavourite like sharing moment Andis getting in general, playlisted I’d onrather BBC drink Radio a 1 just crowd?to infuse honest, gritty lyrics with an us back up to play his clubMy favouritenight at the moment trackis getting now playlisted soundtracks on BBC other Radio people’s 1 just DoIt’s justyou apay great much crowd. attention I must to say, the the rock North aEast bill crowdwith those must guys? Dobecause you feelI felt their so happy regional that lots delight. of people We like can me get were plenty going of to It’sair ofjust poetic a great sensitivity crowd. I- mustit’s somewhat say, the North RedEast Rooms,crowd mustwhich we endedbecause up I feltplaying so happy nights that lots out. of I peopleguess ‘Either like me Way’ were is goingthe to press?be the Andloudest if so, crowd are you out pleased there. with success has paved the waybe listening for bands to my music!PBR It herewas an at amazinghome. feeling. beof athe beautiful loudest contradiction. crowd out there. Can you a couple of times. One beof thelistening nights to it my music!track It was that an changed amazing our feeling. lives and you the reception your latest album, ‘Only like yourself to make an impression in tell us a little bit about where you find was us and the Rev on the bill, and it can kind of see what it means to people Ghosts’,Finally, what has doesreceived? the immediate future bringthe for rock you scene?and can Finally, is there anythingRed you Fang want play to sayThe to Middlesbrough the people coming Finally,your inspiration what does to the produce immediate such futureclassic bringdefinitely for you and felt canlike the startFinally, of is something. there anythingwhen you wantwe play to sayit, which to the is people always coming pretty Thewe look older forward I’ve got to the some less newI’ve paidmaterial in 2017?I think we are a perfectto match! see you? I Empire on Friday 8th December. wetracks? look forward to some new material in 2017? to see you? special. attention.I have a full I wasyear so of proudtouring of the the world, but I amdefinitely making timeappreciate theYou’re success in for they a fun night!Tickets, There pricedwill be sing-songsat £16.50 inand advance, some are IThat’s have avery full kindyear ofof you,touring though the I’mworld, sure but I amThe making Twang timehave been comparedYou’re in forto athe fun night! There will be sing-songs and some accomplishmentsto write new songs we for made an album with ‘Only to be releasedhave in had, 2018. and the fact thatswearing, they arebut you’ll haveavailable a great fromtime! themiddlesbroughempire. tomany write would new beg songs to differ!for an Ialbum guess tomost be releasedlikes inof 2018. The Stone Rosesswearing, and Happy but you’ll haveThe a great Twang time! play Newcastle’s 02 Academy Ghosts’ that I read almost no press at interested in passing some of that along co.uk. of the early songs were written about Mondays throughout the years. Are on Friday 15th December. allTickets, - it felt priced irrelevant between to me. £24.19 I do -like £48.38, it areto available us, but fromI think really Tickets,almost anypriced band at £7.70 (including booking fee), are available Tickets,my mates priced and nights between out £24.19in Brum. - £48.38,I arethere available any particularfrom musicalTickets, influences priced at £7.70Tickets, (including priced booking at £24.95, fee), are are available available whensagegateshead.com. we make music that connects to is going to find successfrom if they thecluny.com. are 1) sagegateshead.com.hung about with some gloriously funny that you feel helped youfrom achieve thecluny.com. your from seetickets.com. people since that is the point of this Making music that connects to humans characters back in the day and they sound? If so, who?

36 37 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Gregory Nolan Photography by Phyllis Christopher

OTHERKIN NATHALIE STERN “Our main brewing secret is not to let the band anywhere near “I’m really intrigued by fairytales and spooky things” the actual brewing process” Newcastle-based folk-infused artist Nathalie pagan/animal mysticism-derived and a bit progression come about? Stern plays Empty Shop, Durham this psychedelic. HP Lovecraft is a given, of In truth, I became bored with my own Irish garage punks, Otherkin, have been the energy to put on a show; I think it’s We’ll be doing lots and lots of touring month so Reece Hanrahan caught up with course - also Angela Carter, Sarah Waters, music! I realised that the songs didn’t really making serious waves this year with the because the music is so energetic and in 2018 as that’s where we feel most at her to speak about her musical influences, and comics such as Beasts of Burden and represent anything that I was feeling at the release of debut album, ‘OK’, and their we feed on that. We’re always motivated home. Aside from gigging, I imagine we’ll fairytales, and writing music. Saga. time and I wanted to have fun with music growing reputation for their exciting to put on a good show as people have get cracking on album two as well and again. By moving away from the idea of live shows. Ahead of their 3rd trip to paid good money for a ticket and I’d feel we’ll possibly put out some new tunes. Your music has been described as ‘dark folk- How old were you when you began to adhering to certain song structures (verse/ the region this year, Damian Robinson like we’ve cheated everybody if we just drone-electronica.’ Do you feel this is an write music? chorus etc), I allowed myself to play around caught up with the band to find out stand there and play the songs while Finally, you have your own brand of appropriate way to describe your music? I joined my first band when I was 16 but it with sounds instead of worrying about where they take their motivation from, staring at our shoes. beer. What are your brewing secrets? I think that’s pretty accurate – I coined it! took me a couple of years before I started writing “proper songs”. what fuels their passion and how to Or are you not allowed to share those I’ve been writing folk-infused music for most writing songs myself. I think the first song I brew the perfect pint. You played Newcastle in September with us? of my years and it took a darker turn a few wrote was ‘Leach’ for my band Candysuck You’ve stated that you’re planning on and then you’re back in the region in We do! It’s called OK IPA and the thing years ago when I introduced a MicroKorg back in Sweden. I’d meant for it to be called releasing an album next year. How is You put on one of my favourite shows December visiting Tynemouth’s Surf is absolutely bangin’. Our main brewing to my set up. That’s what brought the drone ‘Leash’ but my school English failed me at progress coming along with that? And could of the year so far with your gig at Think Cafe as part of a 3-month tour. What secret is not to let the band anywhere element as you get some gut-wrenchingly the time! you tell us more about it? Tank? Underground back in March. Was can we expect from the Surf Cafe near the actual brewing process, amazing sounds out of the Korg by just It’s going very slowly, I’m afraid. I’m recording the gig as memorable to you as it was show? haha. Our role is to drink it - it’s a big pressing one key. Do you feel that the process of writing your it at home and I keep getting distracted by to me? Wild, unbridled mayhem! We actually responsibility but someone has to do music has changed as you’ve matured as the cat and awesome new TV shows. Joking Thanks for coming to the gig. I requested to play there specifically it. We’ll try to save some cans for the What are some of your musical influences an artist? aside, I’m still new to the home recording remember that as it was a Monday because we saw our mates (and great Surf Cafe! when it comes to creating your sound? Definitely. When I first started writing set up I’ve got and it’s taking a lot of time night in Newcastle! There wasn’t many band) the Pale White put on a show I’m inspired by so many artists that don’t music I always used guitar as the basis for every time I go in to record, which, after a people there but it was a great show there recently and it looked incredible! Otherkin play Tynemouth’s Surf Cafe particularly sound like me - such as Neko the song, adding a vocal melody to it. I did full day’s work, means that I only get a few anyway. We always have a good time on Friday 8th December. Tickets, priced Case, Tom Petty, Bjork, Krzysztof Komeda that for years until I swapped it out for the hours in. I know it’ll get quicker, I just have in Newcastle - it’s a great city and the Your new album ‘OK’ has been out for at £7.15 in advance (including booking – but the theme is that they all seem to MicroKorg only a few years ago. I found to get over this hump before it will become locals are good craic. Up the Toon! about a month, so how’s the response fee), are available to purchase now at speak straight to my heart, and that’s how I that I struggled to write guitar-based music easier and more enjoyable. Let’s just say that been so far? seetickets.com. write my music. There’s no theory involved anymore and moved into more vocal-based it will take the time it takes and at some You’ve got a reputation for putting on The response has been fantastic. People at all, only pure feeling. If it feels right, then writing, experimenting with harmonies and point in the near to mid-future, there will be consistently energetic and intense live are really getting onboard with the ‘kin To find out more about Otherkin, and it’s a keeper. different vocal effects. an album out with a bunch of songs on it. shows. What fuels the motivation to put and it’s class to see so many people to keep up-to-date with their tour on such an intense show? And how do singing the songs back to us at our schedule and releases, please head to Do you draw on anything else other than Your sound has progressed from being Nathalie Sterns plays Empty Shop, Durham you maintain your standards? shows. otherkinok.com where you can also music when writing? more traditionally folk to transcending on Sunday 17th December. Tickets are It comes from the music, I suppose. purchase ‘OK’ now on both vinyl and I’m really intrigued by fairytales and spooky those restrictive barriers into something priced at £5.00 on the door. Even if we’re wrecked and tired from How do you see 2018 going? And what CD. things – particularly anything nature/ more experimental. How did this travelling we always manage to summon are your priorities for the year?

38 39 GOSFORTH CIVIC

THEATRE AND new year's eve PARTY SAT 31 DECEMBER EARLY BIRD4 TICKETS FOR £30 £10 GROUP OFFER FREE GLASS OF FIZZ WITH EVERY TICKET

0191 284 3700 | gosforthcivictheatre.co.uk NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by Jodie Canwell

TOM MOUSE SMITH CAPE CUB “I’ve played a few times at Tim Peaks Diner” “The whole sound has been completely filled out and the Tom Mouse Smith has already packed and of course The Charlatans. before I go on. Once I’m on stage though live set just feels better than ever” more into his 13 years of living than most I just love it. of us manage in our lifetimes, including In terms of your own music, what’s next? Reigning from the North East, Cape Cub session afterwards too if everyone is up You’ve recently released ‘Flowers’ and shunning Simon Cowell and supporting I’m about to record a new song called And what about The Charlatans, are you are going from strength to strength. They’re for getting merry. the response to it has been amazing. Do James Bay, Catfish and the Bottlemen, ‘What Do You Expect?’ at a really famous a big fan? currently working with a new line-up and you ever think you’ll get used to all the Shed Seven and Madness. Next up on the studio in Bristol called Real World I am, I really enjoy their material. In the are gearing up to perform a Christmas You’re also playing some other northern positivity coming from fans every time you to-do list is supporting The Charlatans at Studios and I think that will be a fantastic past I’ve covered ‘The Only One I Know’ headliner at The Georgian Theatre, gigs before the end of the year. So what do release new music? their O2 Academy gig in Newcastle, so experience. I won a competition to and ‘Just When You’re Thinkin Things Stockton so Samantha Hall caught up with you find so special about playing up here Thank you. It’s been really nice. No, I won’t Damian Robinson caught up with Tom record at the studio when my song was Over’, which I think are both great songs. frontman Chad Male to find out more. in the north? ever get used to the positivity. I sit there to hear his thoughts on music, inspirations picked to be played. I’ll release the track I’ve supported them before in Manchester The north’s just mint, isn’t it? We’ve got the night before a track gets released just and playing large venues. on Facebook, iTunes and Spotify when it’s at the launch of their last album ‘Different So you’ve got your Christmas gig at The our own little corner of the world up here praying that people are going to be into finished. It’s really about having fun though Days’, so I played in a shoe shop and then Georgian Theatre in Stockton coming and we’re an incubator for great things. it. For me, music comes from a deeply For some of our readers who are yet to and not taking things too seriously. I may at the Lowry. up where you’ll be playing alongside Tom People really get behind their own and the personal place, so giving it away is hard. hear your music, how would you describe be playing some shows in the summer, Joshua, Llovers and A Choir of Ghosts. Are gigs show that, I think. We always have a My head’s full of anxiety and expectation your sound? but I’m not allowed to say what they are That’s amazing. So you’re pretty good you looking forward to that? And how do nice response from our home crowds and and everything in between. So the second It’s mostly an acoustic pop sound, similar just yet. friends with the lads? you feel about the line-up? they’re always first on the list for when someone says something nice I’ll take it in to say Sam Fender or James Bay. I idolise Yeah, quite well. I’ve played a few times at That gig is going to be a really special we’re choosing to play gigs, hence this little both hands! their music and try to make my music And then the big show, supporting The Tim Peaks Diner also. one for us. We took a pretty big chunk of run of northern dates. sound close to theirs. Charlatans. Are you excited? this year out to just rehearse, rehearse What have you got lined up for the future Absolutely. I’ve played the Newcastle 02 And you’ve done some shows with local and rehearse. We’ve had a bit of a shift in And you’ve just won the Alan Hull Award! for Cape Cub? They’re both well-respected singer- Academy a few times and I really enjoy favourite Barry Hyde also… line-up too, with the addition of two good Congratulations! How does it feel to be Well, ‘Searchlight’ has just come out, the songwriters with great voices. Would you playing there - it’s an amazing venue and I have, yes. Barry has been giving me music friends joining us on bass and keyboards. recognised for your incredible songwriting second single through LAB Records, and like to sing as well as them or play guitar it will be an amazing experience. I can’t lessons. He’s a great teacher and I love The whole sound has been completely talent? the third single is due out in 2018. Next as well? wait. Who wouldn’t enjoy playing at the his music. filled out and the live set just feels better It’s insane! Like, I sit there writing songs all year also brings a boat load of live shows, A bit of both to be honest as they’re both Academy? It’s one of my favourite venues than ever. To round off this new chapter the time and producing them up, and then more new music and with all that, this brilliant musicians and players. I’m working to play. Tom will play with The Charlatans at the of the band with our own Christmas gig I put them online and they just do their thing should stay full steam ahead. Thanks hard to try and improve my own playing O2 Academy, Newcastle on Tuesday 5th at the Georgian on the 23rd December, thing. You don’t ever expect to get awards for all your support guys; you’re doing a and singing. You’ve performed in large venues for a December. Tickets, priced from £31.85 right before Christmas, is just great. The or anything. It’s super, super humbling and a stellar job. while now, but do you get nervous before (including booking fee), are available from supports are phenomenal too and every lovely surprise to be honest. If anything, And are they both the people whose a show? seetickets.com. You can find out more one of them are from the North East and I hope I can use whatever platform I get Cape Cub play The Georgian Theatre, music you listen to the most? Most of the time I get more excited than about Tom by heading to Facebook.com/ are either a good mate or a band we’ve from it to showcase what an insane place Stockton on Saturday 23rd December. I do play their music often, but I enjoy nervous. But sometimes, if it’s a really TomMouseSmith. gigged with. It’s a big North East love in, the North East is for new music. Tickets, priced at £9.00 (including booking Shed Seven, Catfish and the Bottlemen large venue, I might feel a bit of nerves and will probably be a big North East fee), are available from georgiantheatre.co.uk.

42 43 NE VOLUME INTERVIEWS

Photography by M Brady

DEAN JAMES & THE BLACK DOGS

“Being tenacious is definitely the best quality you can have” HOS_NORTON_78MM X 114MM ADVERT.pdf 1 15/11/2017 11:58 North East band Dean James and The world is a really important place, And finally, what can your fans expect The Black Dogs have just brought out full of great things, but what we get fed from you in 2018? their new single ‘Another Way’, so Lee via the media and through government 2018 is a bit of a crossroads for me Allcock caught up with Dean to speak sources is that we’re on the edge of the musically as the older I get the less about the new release, the state of the 3rd world war; the poor have crippled motivation I have to keep playing world, and what he has in store for our benefits system; the world is as other things, like kids and work, 2018. poisoned with chemicals and smog etc. consume any last vestige of energy I I’ve been working in mental health for have left. The thing is, I’m so passionate For those of our readers who haven’t a long time and all I see is trauma and about playing that I’ve started to hate come across Dean James and the Black a broken society and it’s time to try to my day job as it’s keeping me from being Dogs before, can you describe your change that. I don’t have any answers a musician. This year the band (the Black music in a few sentences? to this complex situation, but I’m Dogs) and I parted ways as they had Originally I was an acoustic solo act but passionate to try to make a difference their own musical projects going with

for the last couple of years, I’ve gone just by putting my head above the a release of an album and subsequent C all electric with a full band sound. In parapet and speaking about it. tour. Through the falling apart of the a nutshell, Dean James and the Black Dogs, I met a young man called John M Dogs are Blunge (blues grunge). What advice would you give to other Timney who has been playing the circuit songwriters that are just starting out? for many years. I’ve played a few duo Y You’ve just released your new single, I’ve seen so many great bands split gigs with John this year and he agreed CM ‘Another Way’, so what is it all about? because of creative differences, to join the band – and we are currently

‘Another Way’ is me trying to make having to chase the dollar and be in forming a new team of Black Dogs to MY sense of the way the world is – cover bands, or they just end up sick do a small set of promotional gigs for especially with terrorism. All I’m seeing because they don’t feel they are getting the release of my new album, ‘TRUTH’, CY is killing from all sides and we need to anywhere. To even scrape the courage in March 2018. John has also recorded, CMY find another way to sort our differences just to play your songs outside of your played all the instruments and co-

out. The video that comes with the bedroom is the biggest step, but being produced the new album for me and it’s K single looks at what war, in general, tenacious is definitely the best quality sounding massive! does to mankind. It’s an anti-war song you can have. Be confident in your in essence. own ability and believe that someday The new video for ‘Another Way’, by it’s going to be your turn to get an Dean James and The Black Dogs, can be It’s obvious that you’re not happy with opportunity to get that big gig. viewed now on YouTube. the state of the world we’re living in at the moment...

44 ATTILA THE STOCKBROKER + support act UNCLE PAF

#2 30 Dec - 8pm FRI 22 DEC DOORS 7.30PM £5 ‘a radical force of nature’

PLAZA PARA ALTA MAX BIANCO Legendary Punk Poet & Musician GRA4CE TICKETS: £7 online, £8 on door

THE GLOBE • 11 RAILWAY STREET • NEWCASTLE • NE4 7AD hartlepooltownhalltheatre.com • www.theglobenewcastle.bar • NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS

With a powerful sound and impressive stage greats. Yes he’s arrogant, but he’s forthright lighting, Numan’s music held the audience and plainspoken attitude is endearing. And GARY NUMAN in thrall. No longer the jerky android of the LIAM his feelings of sheer love, regret and fragility past, Numan now moves with fluidity and are hidden behind what some people may grace. From a crouching stance ready to see as an egotistic façade (listen to ‘For at 02 Academy, pounce to a yearning arms in the air stance, GALLAGHER What It’s Worth’ on debut solo album ‘As Numan contorted around the microphone You Were’, a song about cheating on his Newcastle and glided the length of the stage with the now ex-wife Nicole Appleton, and you will energy of a man half his age.In shapeless at Metro Radio Arena, fully understand what I mean). Since Oasis 09/10/2017 grey garb with a shock of black hair and split some eight years ago, Liam has had to his trademark eyeliner, Numan held the Newcastle often live in the shadow of brother Noel Written by Hayden Snapper stage. His band of accomplished musicians who the media have often noted as ‘the Photography by Capture NCL wore similar post-apocalyptic grey garb and 01/11/2017 talent’, ‘Oasis’ brains’ and even ‘the main produced throbbing, grinding riffs, thumping Gallagher’, but Liam is definitely back with A stage washed in blue with smoke beats and a heavy industrial synch rock Written by Lee Allcock a vengeance. Of course tonight’s show at billowing. A crowd of black-clad Numanoids that illustrated the constant innovation of Photography by Mandy Naumann Newcastle’s biggest venue, the Metro Radio eagerly waiting. To cheers and whoops of sound from his array of albums. A rip-roaring Arena, was set up to showcase Liam’s brand delight from a devoted crowd, Gary and his version of ‘Metal’, followed by songs from When you personally think of a music new material but that didn’t stop him from rag tag band of musicians entered the stage. his 2013 album ‘Splinter (Songs From a legend who do you think of? Bowie, creating a nostalgic show that included a Eerie electronics filled the venue as Numan Broken World)’ was met with delight by the Prince, Lennon, Hendrix or Kurt Cobain number of Oasis classics including the likes began his performance of Dystopian gloom audience. His most recent album ‘Savage’ maybe? Some might say (Oasis pun of ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Star’, ‘(What’s the Story?) and environmental melt down. ‘We live showed the Eastern influences he has intended) that Oasis are a legendary Morning Glory’ and ‘Cigarettes and Alcohol’. in a Wind Swept Hell’ snarled Gary to a incorporated into his pioneering vision of band, and I’d agree, but what about In terms of tracks from ‘As You Were’, backdrop of raging fire and metallic riffs. music creativity. Numan gave an inventive, Liam specifically? He may not have the ‘Greedy Soul’, ‘Bold’ and encore track ‘I’ve And so it began... Gary Numan has an theatrical performance that included the greatest lyrical team behind him (rhyming All I Need’ fitted so perfectly into the impressive back catalogue spanning forty classic hit ‘Cars’ and ended with his genre- free man with European on ‘Chinatown’, set that they could quite easily have been years in the industry and a diverse list defining hit ‘Are Friends Electric’. a song which also includes the lyrics: written some 15/20 years ago by Oasis. of artists who have covered or sampled His deeply powerful music has stood the “Well the cops are taking over, while “It’s been a long time Newcastle, but you’ve his tracks. Prince, Lady Gaga, Jack White, test of time whilst continuing to develop everyone’s in yoga”, doesn’t exactly reach always been on my mind” declared Liam. Kanye West, Queens of the Stone Age, Foo and grow. From past to present and into the heights of Lennon’s witty lyricism Let’s hope he doesn’t wait too long to Fighters, The Sugarbabes and Nine Inch the future, Numan is an artist well worth in ‘Imagine’) but there’s no doubting in return as tonight was special, really special. Nails have all paid homage to Numan. watching. my mind that Liam is up there with the

favourite and final track of their set, last time I saw them (supporting Toyah). Oz ‘Let Your Heart Confess’, which has the (guitar & vocals), Tetley (keyboard/vocals), SLØTFACE whole crowd singing. Dave and Adrian (bass & drums) are clearly THE FALLEN talented at what they do, with the sound In terms of Velvoir, well it’s hard to put into words what a Velvoir show is system really allowing them to shine. So after + Velvoir + Bruto like; it truly is something you have to a short interlude, The Fallen Leaves then LEAVES treated us to an hour of their own blend experience for yourself. at KU Bar, Stockton However, what is most memorable is of catchy guitar-driven garage punk that the theatrical nature of their show, with + King Mojo included songs from all four of their albums. 13/10/2017 their music and antics (especially Verity’s Rob Green, complete with maracas, flask of eroticism) linking together to create a at Westgarth Social tea, shades, a rather cool walking stick (used sort of dark psychedelic experience. for nothing more than resting his arms and Written by Thomas Anderson That’s what Velvoir provide - an Club, Middlesbrough gunning down the audience) and vintage Photography by Sam Edge experience. Tonight they were at their microphone blows smoke rings whilst best and had the crowd fixated on them 04/11/2017 almost crooning his way through the perfect The good folks at KU Bar put together from start to finish. pop punk of ’Prodigal Son’, ‘I Made A Mistake’, another great line-up for tonight, So what about headliners, Sløtface? Written and photographed ‘Lavender Girl’, ‘Shining’, and ‘Silvie Says’. New featuring three fantastic up-and-coming Well, personally, they just didn’t do by Steve White song ‘Green Eyes’ slots in perfectly alongside artists and headlined by Norwegian punk anything for me. I couldn’t help but crowd pleasers ‘Motorcycle Girl’ and singles band Sløtface (previously known feel like there was very little that really The Westgarth in Middlesbrough is a ‘Out In A Forest’ and ‘Trouble’. Throughout it as Slutface but they decided to tone stood out in their performance. proper social club, with locals enjoying a all, Rob Symmons hammers out note-perfect their name down in order to gain Other than their great image, the music few pints and a game of snooker in one twanging guitar whilst bassist Matthew Karas more radio play). itself was average and did feel a little room while bands throw out some noise stands effortlessly cool in his paisley smoking There was bound to be good things in too mainstream and commercial. in the room next door. I’ve said it before jacket and the impressive drumming of store with artsy band Velvoir on the bill, However, that’s not to say this was a and I’ll say it again - the sound engineer at Buddy Ascott (originally of ‘79/’80 mod band along with Teesside’s very own Bruto, bad night as local bands Velvoir and these gigs works wonders and tonight is no The Chords) holds it all together from the who opened up the night in style. These Bruto did the North East proud. exception. First up are King Mojo. There’s rear of the stage. A cheeky pre-gig request guys have truly come far performance- The event also brought a tonne of great a huge Weller/Jam sound here, with subtle for ‘My Phantoms’, not on the original set-list, wise since their earlier days and put on a people together under one roof to have hints of punk rock guitar and 60s garage all is granted and makes this a perfect gig for brilliant crowd-pleasing set. a good time, and that’s what music is all coming together to create powerful tunes me. No shouting, no swearing, no deafening They’re a band that really gives it their about, is it not? that get your feet moving. Tonight they thrashing guitars. This really is ‘Punk Rock For all and you can tell, especially on fan- seem tighter and more together than the Gentlemen’.

48 49 NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS NE VOLUME GIG REVIEWS

– from breakout debut ‘The Good Will combo might have been a mistake. Out’ (1998) to forthcoming ‘Love is a Among the darkness, Wolf Alice took EMBRACE Basic Need’ (2018). Classics such as WOLF ALICE to the stage, picked up their guitars and ‘Nature’s Law’ and ‘Ashes’ still packed a kicked things off with ferocity. Opening punch years after their initial releases. tracks included ‘Heavenward’, ‘Yuk Foo’, at Empire, Middlesbrough The band also showcased some new at O2 Academy, ‘You’re a Germ’ and ‘Your loves Whore’, tracks, such as ‘The Finish Line’, which with the crowd creating a sea of chaos 05/11/2017 provided an intriguing insight into the Newcastle which lead singer, Ellie Rowsell, clearly quality material that is to come with appreciated as she thanked the crowd Written by Caitlin Thompson their new release – and showing that 14/11/2017 throughout for their wild appreciation of age is no obstacle to excellence. Seeing the songs. the anthemic ‘Gravity’ performed to a Written by Adam Urwin The set was a great mix of both albums If you’re a Millennial like myself then, packed crowd at Middlesbrough’s Empire Photography by Adam Barnsley including the later released EPs. Songs chances are, you probably don’t was surely a spine-tingling experience like ‘Moaning Lisa Smile’ and ‘Giant Peach’ remember a time when West Yorkshire for all who witnessed it. Proudly placed made an appearance towards the end five-piece Embrace weren’t around alongside the likes of The Killers’ ‘Mr. Having released their new album of the set and ensured that gig-goers in one form or another. Formed in Brightside’ and Foo Fighters’ ‘Everlong’, ‘Visions of a Life’ at the end of continued to be fuelled by adrenaline. The 1990 with the McNamara brothers at Embrace’s ‘Gravity’ should be on September, Wolf Alice have taken to night got intimate when the band played the helm, Embrace have often struck everyone’s list of songs to experience in the road with a string of UK dates tracks ‘Silk’ and ‘Don’t Delete the Kisses’. me, in a similar vein to Welsh rockers a live setting – whatever their previous and tonight they were in Newcastle. And for a band to have such a range of Stereophonics, as never quite receiving experience, or lack thereof, with the band Following up on their fantastic debut music to perform shows real skill from the public recognition they deserve. previously. This performance, once again, album in 2015, ‘Visions of a Life’ such young musicians. That being said, however, the boys from proved that Embrace are here to stay – continues that journey of alternative, Wolf Alice didn’t have a great deal of Bailiff Bridge have a dedicated following with potentially even greater things to indie rock and blows away fans just as interaction with the crowd but they that, over several decades, have grown come in the future. their debut did. didn’t have to as their music is so strong and changed alongside them. And many Embrace’s UK tour will culminate in a While it was a cold November night in and loud that it speaks for them. The of these followers chose to reject performance at Shiiine on Weekender Newcastle, the Academy was far from lyrics are meaningful and you can see how traditional Bonfire Night celebrations 2017, in Minehead. The new album, ‘Love chilly as Wolf Alice were playing to a much it means to the band to be playing in favour of watching Embrace light up is a Basic Need’, is scheduled for release virtually sold-out crowd. Who needs in front of their fans. Could you really ask Middlesbrough’s Empire music venue. on 9th March 2017 and is available to central heating when you have a couple any more of a band? The 17-song set list covered the band’s preorder from embrace.co.uk. of thousand people packed into an many stages over the past few decades intimate venue? My hoody/denim jacket

towers the audience from the riser at the with a set that consists of unimaginative front of the stage, grasping a megaphone. songwriting, dull stage presence and a RISE AGAINST ‘Give It All’ has everyone absolutely general look of disinterest from band and ENTER SHIKARI audience alike. The same cannot be said for bouncing, which see’s McIlrath leap onto the barrier upon the front row.The room Enter Shikari, however, as from the moment + Pears + Sleeping is just bursting with energy during ‘The + Lower Than Atlantis they take to the stage it’s apparent that Violence’, which goes down a storm and is we’re witnessing a band that have honed With Sirens one of the best songs of the night. Whilst + Astroid Boys their craft and, in return, become one of the their catchy melodic number, ‘House on most vital live acts in rock/alternative music at O2 Academy, Newcastle Fire’, is surprisingly one of only three songs at Metro Radio Arena, today. Cuts from the new album, such as played from latest album, ‘Wolves’. ‘The Sights’ and ‘Take my Country Back’, sit 08/11/2017 Rise Against give us the best part of the Newcastle alongside setlist mainstays, as the 360-sound evening as they slow down proceedings, allows the bands’ electronic elements to Written and photographed giving us time, as fans, to reflect. During 19/11/2017 whirl and thump around the room with by Ashley Shephard a short solo acoustic segment, we were dizzying consequences. The vibe then takes Written and photographed treated to ‘Swing Life Away’ ‘People a different direction as Rou and Rob appear by Jake Carr Smith 02 Academy Newcastle is rammed to Live Here’ and ‘Hero of War.’ Rise on a smaller stage in the sound booth and the roof as melodic hardcore band, Rise Against round off their explosive set tackle the piano-driven ballad, ‘Airfield’ - a Against, bring their ‘Wolves’ tour to with ‘Satellite’, pouring every ounce into Fresh from the release of their latest bold move for a band whose live sets are the UK for what is their first show in a solid performance - their energy is album ‘The Spark’, Enter Shikari bring the notoriously energetic. As all four members the region for 6 years. Chants of “Rise” truly relentless.The band briefly leave accompanying tour to Newcastle’s Metro return to the main stage, the big guns of echo throughout the Academy as Rise the stage whilst the crowd clearly want Radio Arena. Astroid Boys open things up the Shikari back catalogue are very much Against burst onto the stage, taking their more, as chants of “one more song” echo tonight, with their breed of grime-meets- brought out for the final stretch. ‘Sorry You’re positions and immediately breaking into throughout the venue. For the encore, Rise rock doing a reasonable job of warming up Not a Winner’ still sounds as innovative as it ‘Chamber the Cartridge’, with the crowd Against close with ‘Saviour’ and ‘Make It the crowd. As competent as the six-piece did ten plus years from its release; ‘The Last immediately thrashing around so hard Stop (September’s Children)’ – two songs are, the overall package feels somewhat Garrison’ showcases quintessential Enter the floor of the academy shakes. filled with outspoken and touching lyrics. lacking, which is forgivable for a band this Shikari song writing and ‘Zzzonked’ causes Throughout the band’s set, lead singer There’s just something so incredibly early in their career. absolute chaos and whips the crowd into a McIIrath makes it no secret that they’ve beautiful about a room full of people, Any slight momentum gained from the mosh/raving frenzy. An encore of ‘Redshift’ been looking forward to playing in front singing along to every word, allowing previous band is very much lost as Lower and ‘Live Outside’ round off a triumphant of Newcastle’s rowdy crowd. McIlrath McIIrath to really connect with the crowd Than Atlantis take to the stage. Their radio- night for one of the leading lights in the leads fist-pumping chants of “Rise” as he tonight. friendly rock loses the audience’s attention current alternative scene.

50 51 STUDY FOR AN OPEN UNIVERSITY DEGREE Paul Thomas Saunders WITH MIDDLESBROUGH Harri Endersby Ellen Nisbeth COLLEGE The Rheingans Sisters Tamás Pálfalvi Aaron Lee Tasjan

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THE STUDIO, TOWER STREET, HARTLEPOOL TS24 7HQ T: 01429 231783 E: [email protected] NE VOLUME ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS NE VOLUME ALBUM/EP/SINGLE REVIEWS

ECHOLINES MISS DANBY PARALLAX SKIES STEPHEN J. MORDUE BOB DOUGLASS & BE QUIET. ‘Breathe’ & THE WHAT ‘Pages From Ceefax’ ‘Rain Dirty Rivers’ THE FREQUENCY SHOUT LOUD! Album Review ‘Like Greta Garbo’ EP Review Mini Album Review ‘Good Intentions’ ‘Superheroes’ Single Review Written by Thomas Anderson Written by Wayne Madden Written by Law Boland EP Review Single Review Written by Jack Dodsworth Melodic Newcastle rockers, Echolines, Written by Damian Robinson If a band sings from the heart and Singer-songwriter Stephen J. Mordue, Written by Wayne Madden have just released a spectacular write about material they believe, a seasoned North East gig playing Middlesbrough’s very own indie-pop 11-track album and it’s, quite frankly, In her autobiography, original riot grrrrl then Parallax Skies’ ‘Pages from veteran with almost 20 years of gigging band, Be Quiet. Shout Loud!, have blown me away. Their brand new Viv Albertine pretty much summed up Ceefax’ EP is the typical Doves- experience under his belt, has recently I might be just old enough that I recently launched their latest single, album, ‘Breathe’ (when listened to the importance of rock ‘n’ roll to music inspired material you might expect released his debut mini-album entitled was deeply concerned that Bob ‘Superheroes’. And if you enjoy both alphabetically), opens up with an fans with her declaration that: “musicians to hear from Stockton’s newest indie ‘Rain Dirty River’. The mini-album makes Douglass was going to launch into a the goofiness and witty side of indie ethereal and soul-lifting pop-indie- are our real teachers; they open us up export. Personally, I confess to having for 21 minutes of pleasant (but not version of New Kids on the Block’s frontlines The Hoosiers, then you’ll ballad-hybrid kind of track which then with their lyrics and creativity”. never been much of an indie fan, but overly captivating) listening. Stephen J. ‘The Right Stuff’ at the beginning fall in love with this new single - I leads the rest of the album into a great Newcastle four-piece shoegazing and the shoegazing-tinged bridge and Mordue isn’t really the strongest vocalist of his latest track. Thankfully, this certainly did. symphony that takes the listener on an riot grrl sounding Miss Danby & the Joy Division-esque vocals have me in the North East right now – his vocals folk-inspired acoustic guitar driven Be Quiet. Shout Loud! are an inspirational musical journey. What are certainly the type of band wondering. Parallax Skies attempt are raw but just not powerful enough jaunt is completely the opposite of indie-pop/disco band that have been There’s just something distinctly clearly marked out for a career in to look at the futility of life and the for my personal taste. However, while manufactured pop. And It’s a song appearing across the region since dramatic and somewhat ferocious education and future favourites of mine. quest to become a famous musician, his vocals aren’t breathtakingly amazing which, once again, gives to us an 2009; although it’s been a while since in Echolines sound. And the way the Charming and honest, their new EP ‘Like drawing on the juxtaposition. It’s an there’s something soothingly clement example of the plethora of talent this their last release as ‘Superheroes’ is sometimes erratic yet powerful guitar Greta Garbo’ pushes a post-punk Slits- interesting subtext, looking at what’s about the sweet sounding melodies region has to offer. Douglass reminds the first Be Quiet. Shout Loud! single lines pierce through the mix - in esque sound into interesting and fresh real as opposed to glamorised - and heartfelt lyrics. And also, each song us that the road to hell is often paved in almost two years, after the band songs like ‘HisPrize’ and ‘MakeUMine’ ground. Across the EP, vulnerable lyrics something which, in itself, defines the on ‘Rain Dirty River’ blends into the with good intentions - something underwent a change in their line-up. especially - makes for a unique, stylistic about human relationships and changing movement. next almost seamlessly which makes it that has been quoted by everyone As a comic book nerd and a fan of composition. The mix itself is extremely emotions are given space to be heard by Andy Brown commands a strong an easy listen. ‘Rain Dirty Rivers’’ main from Karl Marx to Madonna - and the the 80s, the new single really swept tight and well put together, especially clever guitar work and tribal drumming. vocal presence - it’s sombre and downfall, however, is that the sound is not proverb itself forms the basis of the me off my feet with the popish beats, in stand-out track ‘MsJames’ where Cleverly combining Sonic Youth-style clear and it’s almost reminiscent of entirely unique, and therefore it doesn’t song. If all actions, whether good or the catchy lyrics and the quirky the bass and drums blend together guitar soundscapes with a Topper a pastor I knew from church. There really out from the crowd. Two of the bad, have unintended consequences vocals all culminating together to seamlessly. This then leads on to more Hedon drum style, ‘Greta’ combines might not be infallibility to their stronger songs on ‘Rain Dirty River’, then this song has had the unintended create a really distinguished single. I’m intense songs such as ‘RatherHaveU’, to produce a sound that is as angry performance, but there is definitely for me, are ‘Love Song’ and ‘You’re The consequence of paying tribute to itself. instantly reminded of The Hoosiers where you can hear influences from as it is sorrowful. Opener ‘Like Greta a spiritual sense of awakening; their Only One’. ‘Love Song’ boasts a catchy The singer is effectively asking and, as someone who adores and has the pop-punk genre creeping in. This Garbo’ kicks out with a strong message music burns slowly with you and sing-along chorus that manages to bury rhetorical questions on morality grown up with that band, it made me fiery, youthful, punk vibe (think A Day of intent, while strongest track ‘Across remains after the fact. If you’re the itself into your subconscious for you to about the nature of his own existence glad to see that we have comical and to Remember) along with an orchestral the Hall’ drives a riot grrrl sound with kind of person who adored indie but hum to yourself as you get on with your and the love we share with another fun bands right here in the North new-wave style (think New Order) is vocals (from Miss Danby) sounding is now sick of the sound, I would still daily tasks. ‘You’re The Only One’ has person. I could have read too much East. Chris Burton, the new keytar what helps Echolines standout from the like Kathleen Hanna meets ‘Go-Go’’s encourage you to give this record a a different sound to it than the rest of into this, but I actually like the idea player, had something to say about crowd. The album finishes on ‘UCall’, a era Belinda Carlisle. It’s a strong vocal spin, as its quiet tones and haunting the tracks on the album as Stephen has that like folk songs before, there’s a creating the new single and revamping brilliant piece of music brimming with delivery that is piercing and intense and melodies may just draw you back to a put down his trusty acoustic guitar in multi-layered meaning which differs their old style: “It was simple really. beautiful instrumentals and a fantastic directs the songs structure. Blending happier time. Irony defined. exchange for a tinkle on the ol’ ivories from listener to listener. It’s not We removed the keyboard stands storyline told through powerful and further influences, the remaining EP To listen to the debut EP from for this slower and eerie love ballad. All Dylan but it’s a start.Yet, this is not an and then added keytars and guitar evocative lyrics. Overall, it’s a stunning with ‘Lemon Seed’ is the most distant Teesside band Parallax Skies head to in all, ‘Rain Dirty River’ is a good mini- academic thesis; it is a good spirited solos. Maths, innit?” and fitting end to a great album - and soulful track; blending Echo and the soundcloud.com/parallaxskies/sets/ album, but really nothing more than just and fun song with an excellent guitar So, superheroes or supervillains? I an album that is definitely worth Bunnymen’s most emotional moments pages-from-ceefax-ep right now. And ‘good’. If Stephen J. Mordue had perhaps solo, which trails off into a nicely guess the only way you can make purchasing. with the minimalism of Beach House. to keep up-to-date with the band, experimented a little more and gone layered finish. The Frequency has your mind up about this latest single The new album is available now on all Personal favourite ‘Humdinger’ takes the including finding out more about outside of his comfort zone then it could found their perfect pitch. The right is by giving it a listen right now. digital platforms. And to keep up-to- Bangles harmonies and places them into their touring schedule and upcoming have been something magnificent. stuff indeed. And you can now watch the video for date with Echolines’ tour schedule and a post-punk feel. releases, head to Facebook.com/ You can listen to the mini-album now on You can watch the video to ‘Good ‘Superheroes’ on YouTube. new releases, head to Facebook.com/ Listen to the new EP now at mdandtw. parallaxskies. iTunes, Spotify and Amazon. Intentions’ now by heading to YouTube. Echolinesuk. bandcamp.com.

54 55 NE VOLUME DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS NE VOLUME DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS

• Ambiere + Twist Helix. • Limehouse Lizzy. • Gateshead College Showcase. • Craig Davies. Jumpin’ Jacks, Newcastle. £5.50 Adv. ARC, Stockton. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS • Peace on Earth. • Folklines Friday. • Asomvel. • Kyla Brox Band + Barking Billy TP Coffee House and Café, Trillians, Newcastle. and the Scrapyard Dogs Band. Friday 1st December • 40 Years of Teesside Punk: Gosforth Civic Theatre. £5.00. Middlesbrough. • No Quarter + Gav Pine. Redcar Citizen Club. • Queen + Adam Lambert. Zeitgeist 77 + The Filth + No Way • Jordan Allen. The Cluny, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. • Antarctic Monkeys. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. + Alien8 + Johnny Seven. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £6.00 Adv. Saturday 9th December • Boro Soup Christmas Special. KU Bar, Stockton. • Revolver. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Steeleye Span. • Duke Special + Dan Donnelly. TP Coffee House and Café, • Steelyard Blues Band. The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. £7.50 Adv, £10.00 OTD. ARC, Stockton. Hutton Rudby Village Hall. Middlesbrough. The Station, Loftus. • The Devil’s Music: Bad Bod Bates • Amelia Coburn and Friends. • Destroyer. • The Filthy Tongues. • American Girl. + Struggle Buggy. ARC, Stockton. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £15.00 Adv. Thursday 14th December Westgarth Social Club, Saltburn House. The Globe, Newcastle. • Can’t Swim + Microwave. • Live Buskers. Middlesbrough. • Open Mic Night. • Viper. • Meme’s. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £8.00 Adv. Three Tuns, Gateshead. • Driven Serious + Hivemind. The Fighting Cocks, Durham. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. The Voyager, South Shields. Sunday 3rd December Thursday 7th December Independent, Sunderland. • Tommy Scott. • Beatlemania in ‘Pepper Again’. • Saltburn Jazz Xmas Party with £7.00. OTD. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. ARC, Stockton. Alligator Gumbo. • The Smokin’ Spitfires. • Carabiners. • ROAM. • Rob Heron & The Tea Pad • The Springsteen Sessions. Saltburn Community Hall. £12.00. The Cluny, Newcastle. £6.50 Adv. Jumpin’ Jacks, Newcastle. £6.60 Adv. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. Orchestra. The Forum Music Centre, • Southmartins + Tooth and Nail • N.U.T.S. • Skyrider. • Nick Gladdish + Tim Higgins. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. Darlington. + Cherry Head, Cherry Heart. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • The Monkey Junk Blues Club. • Kid Congo & The Pink Monkey Friday 15th December Sunday 17th December • MIND Charity Gig: Decrepid • Jonny Pollard. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free. Bords + The Milk Lizards. Monolith + Dunes + Snakes Don’t • Steve McCormick. • 1 Night. Head of Steam, Norton. Free. • Alex Cameron. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.50 Adv. Belong in Alaska + Waheela. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Deep Purple in Rock. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • Absolva. The Globe, Newcastle. • Christmas at Gosforth Civic Theatre • Monkey Junk/Jumping Hot Club Trillians, Newcastle. Trillians, Newcastle. Monday 4th December • Sugarstone. with Strictly Smokin Big Band. Xmas Afternoon. • Easy Street Blues Duo. • Grace Petrie. The Station, Loftus. £10.70. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. • WeAreDefiant. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • Blue Horizons. • Pastures + Pink Tide + The • Jazz Coop Xmas Party. • Search Newcastle Fundraiser. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Open Mic Night. The Globe, Newcastle. Phosphenes + Mallura. The Globe, Newcastle. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £9.00 Adv. • Algiers + Moon Diagrams. The Fighting Cocks, Durham. Musiclounge, Stockton. £4.00 OTD. • Classical Café. • Janny Lascelles + Ian Bredis The Cluny, Newcastle. £9.00 Adv. Sunday 10th December Friday 8th December • The Moulettes. TP Coffee House and Café, + Ani Sandwith. • Disposable + Soul of Jack Ketch. • JW Jones. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £15.00 Adv. Middlesbrough. The Cluny, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. Trillians, Newcastle. • Jaywalkers. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £8.00 Adv. • Deadbeats. • Envy Us. • Foxcatcher + Weakdaze. ARC, Stockton. Saturday 2nd December • Blue Jazz Sextet. The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. Saltburn House. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Dr. Feelgood + The Cold Heart The Globe, Newcastle. • Vinyl Feat. Late Night Legacy • X-mas Box Festival. • Ghostband. Revue. Tuesday 5th December • The Monkey Junk Blues Club. + Lost in the Crowd + Abbey Burns. Various Venues, Darlington. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £17.50 Adv. The Cluny, Newcastle. Free. Riverside Lounge, Stockton. Free. • Byker Grave Festival 2017. • Barry Hyde: Forties to Noughties. • Stu Blackburn. Monday 18th December • Nick Harper & The Wilderness Kids. • Sabbatica. The Cluny, Newcastle. £9.00 Adv. Jumpin’ Jacks, Newcastle. Head of Steam, Norton. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.00 Adv. Trillians, Newcastle. • Static Soul. • Blast Beach. • Lionheart + Airrace. • Goody Two Shoes. • Psymatics + Pad Thai Hi-Fi. Jumpin’ Jacks, Newcastle. £5.50 Adv. The Globe, Newcastle. The Cluny, Newcastle. £14.00 Adv. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Monday 11th December The Globe, Newcastle. • McLusky + Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaind • Bessie and The Zinc Buckets. • Wild Font. • Retro Clothes. • Yawning Man + Blown Out + Sobia. • Mosaic. + Eat Fast. Trillians, Newcastle. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £6.00 Adv. Jumpin’ Jacks, Newcastle. £3.85 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.50 Adv. Head of Steam, Norton. Free. The Cluny, Newcastle. • The Good Souls. • 65DAYSOFSTATIC. • Saltburn Blues Club Present: • The Twang + Sugarthief + The Asist. The Voyager, South Shields. The Boiler Shop, Newcastle. The Blue Bishops. Tuesday 12th December Tuesday 19th December O2 Academy, Newcastle. • The Delmonts. £16.00 Adv. Saltburn Cricket Club. • Lindisfarne. • Uli Jon Roth + Ali Clinton. Saltburn House. • The Charlatans + Average Sex • Clue Records Christmas Party: Saturday 16th December The Cluny, Newcastle. £20.00 Adv. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • The John Strong Band + Tom Mouse Smith. Forever Cult + Dead Naked • Gateshead College Showcase. • MikArtistik’s Ego Trip. • Hightower Temple + Dirty Nickers + Pete Davies. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Hippies + Primitive Painters The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. + Julie and Elaine + Joshua Neilson. Toft House, Middlesbrough. + Swears. Wednesday 6th December • The Most Steampunk Time of Fitzgeralds, Sunderland, Free. • Shed Seven + Cast. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. Wednesday 13th December The Year. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • UB40. £6.00 Adv. • Silverstein. The Cluny, Newcastle. £20.00 Adv. Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. • Happy Mondays + Jon Dasilva. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £14.00 Adv.

56 57 NE VOLUME DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS NE VOLUME DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS • Crashed Out. • The Doggone Daddies. Friday 12th January Wednesday 24th January Trillians, Newcastle. Saltburn House. £10.00. DEC 2017 / JAN 2018 GIG LISTINGS • Werbeniuk. • Candi Staton. • Break Out! • Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Wednesday 20th December Saturday 23rd December Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Sage, Gateshead. The Globe, Newcastle. Muscle Theory. • Open Mic Night. The Cluny, Newcastle. £14.00 Adv. • High Anthem: One More Night • Cape Cub. • Grafteoke NYE Spectacular. • Snake Eyes. The Fighting Cocks, Durham. The Cluny, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. + Set Your Sights + Holding Out Georgian Theatre, Stockton. Thursday 25th January + Counterfeit Youth. £7.50 Adv. Friday 29th December Monday 1st January Saturday 13th January • The Deslondes. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. • Noircastle. • Attila the Stockbroker. The Cluny, Newcastle. £12.00 Adv. • Cleveland FBU Xmas Event: The Globe, Newcastle. • The Blue Flies. • Pad Thai Hi-Fi. Toft House, Middlesbrough. • Johnson/Herdman Quartet. Towzer + Acoustic Weller • So What. The Voyager, South Shields. The Globe, Newcastle. £8.00 OTD. • Big Sister. The Globe, Newcastle. + Alistair James. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Wednesday 3rd January • Stan + George Shovlin & The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Chronic Change. The Britannia, Houghton-le-Spring. Radars. • Folk & Acoustic. Friday 26th January £5.00 Adv. Think Tank? Underground, Monday 15th January The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • Amy Wadge and Luke Jackson. Newcastle. £7.00 OTD. The Globe, Newcastle. Thursday 21st December • Bite the Bullet. Hutton Rudby Village Hall. • Autism Able Fundraiser. Thursday 4th January • To Kill A King. The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. • The Weather Station. • Martin Stephenson & The Toerags. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • The Echo Inside. • Open Mic Night. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £8.00 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £15.00 Adv. • The Phat Tyrtles. Thursday 18th January Head of Steam, Norton. Free. • The Damned. • Hot Sex for Boys. KU Bar, Stockton. The Fighting Cocks, Durham. • Boomchang Records. • Roger Chapman: Family & Friends. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Trillians, Newcastle. • George Boomsma. Friday 5th January The Cluny 2, Newcastle. • Single Black Olive. • Mr. Treacle. The Little Tanner, Northallerton. O2 Academy, Newcastle. • Funk Soul Social. The Globe, Newcastle. Whole Latte Love, Stockton. • Smoove &Turrell’s Christmad • Jazz Night with The Paul Edis Trio. • Open Mic Night. The Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Sam Lavery. • The O’Blimey’s. Cracker. Saltburn Community Hall. The Fighting Cocks, Durham. £8.00 Adv, £10.00 OTD. £10.00 Adv, £12.00 OTD. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. The Vane Arms, Thorpe Thewles. The Boiler Shop, Newcastle. Friday 19th January • Lie Undead Slayer. £10.00 Adv. Free. £20.00 Adv. • Catalyse. Trillians, Newcastle. The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. • 999. • Classical Café. • Trillians Xmas Bash. Saturday 27th January Georgian Theatre, Stockton. TP Coffee House and Café, Trillians, Newcastle. Saturday 30th December Saturday 6th January Middlesbrough. £10.00 Adv, £13.00 OTD. • The Americans. Sunday 24th December • Dan Donnelly & Jon Sevink. • Xmas Til You Puke. • The Breakfast Club. • Metis. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £8.00 Adv. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £5.00 Adv. • Hot Snakes. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. • Joe Blades + Mikey Dowson. The Railway, Gateshead. Free. The Globe, Newcastle. • Plugged Out: The Missing Cats. • Jack Lukeman. The Cluny, Newcastle. £16.50 Adv. £12.50 Adv, £15.00 OTD. The Little Tanner, Northallerton. Sunday 7th January Chaplins, Sunderland. Free. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • Driven Serious. Friday 22nd December Tuesday 26th December • Pressure Drop. • The Smokin’ Spitfires. • Big Sister. O2 Academy 2, Newcastle. Georgian Theatre, Stockton. Free. • A Dark, Dark Christmas #3. • Boxing Day Big One. The Cluny, Newcastle. £6.50 Adv. The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. • Attila The Stockbroker + Uncle PAF. Monday 29th January Georgian Theatre, Stockton. The Studio, Hartlepool. Monday 8th January Saturday 20th January £5.00 Adv, £7.00 OTD. The Globe, Newcastle. • Steve Aoki. Wednesday 27th December • Wildcats of Kilkenny: E-I-Snow. • The Devils Bandits. • The Hunna. • Sextile. O2 Academy, Newcastle The Station, Loftus. ARC, Stockton. • Metal Militia + Maiden + Stone Deaf O2 Academy, Newcastle. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £6.00 Adv. • The Skapones. • Alvin Youngblood Hart + Chris James • After Midnight. Forever + Ozzbron + Pearlescence Wednesday 10th January The Voyager, South Shields. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. + Rage Against A Machine. + Martin Fletcher Band. • Rodfest: The Kill + The Force Redcar Citizen Club. WANT TO • Archie Brown’s Christmas Party. O2 Academy, Newcastle. Sunday 31st December + Sticky Finger + The Dirty South The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. • Buskers Christmas Party. Sunday 21st January • GCT and King Bee NYE Party. ADVERTISE IN • Dale Husband. Three Tuns, Gateshead. + Alkatrazz House Band Head of Steam, Norton. Free. Gosforth Civic Theatre. £10.00. + Deep Purple in Rock. • Dave Ramirez + Archie Brown Thursday 28th December • Bedlam. • The Last Hurrah: Sean Rowley O2 Academy, Newcastle. & Pat Rafferty. + Deja Brew. The Cluny 2, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. GET YOUR GIG OR The Three Fiddles, Guisborough. • Kiss GB + Led IntoZepplin Thursday 11th January The Boiler Shop, Newcastle. BUSINESS OUT THERE • 1977 + New Wave Tribute. + Van Hailen + Destroyer Monday 22nd January £10.00 Adv. The Globe, Newcastle. + Ma Kellys Boys. • Open Mic Night. FROM AS LITTLE AS £65.00! • SKA TOONS. • Town Hall Live #2. O2 Academy, Newcastle. The Fighting Cocks, Durham. • The Bottom Line. Three Tuns, Gateshead. £5.00. Hartlepool Town Hall. • The Benidorm Rovers. • Mo Scott Blue Band. Think Tank?, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. CONTACT LEE AT • Four Colour Ghosts. The Cluny, Newcastle. £10.00 Adv. The Globe, Newcastle. • The Transports. [email protected] Whole Latte Love, Stockton. Gala Theatre, Durham. £20.00 Adv.

58 59