Category: Live Music

Breaking Glass Magazine – December 2021

Posted in Cover, Live Music, Photography

Breaking Glass Magazine – December 2021

Firmly on our favourite new bands list, we planned to have LibraLibra on one of our monthly covers just over a year ago. That plan was thwarted by a day of extraordinarily heavy rain followed by a plunge back into lockdown. We’re delighted that we’ve finally made this happen and to see how much recognition and support the band has gained in the meantime.

As an added bonus, it was a huge pleasure to catch a packed hometown show at Brighton’s Hope & Ruin a couple of weeks ago; their new music sounded great, their energy is infectious and the crowd had an absolute ball.

Now that we all have the opportunity to get out to gigs again, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget that lots of artists and others in the industry have had a tough time throughout the pandemic. It’s so important to keep supporting the music scene to make sure we all keep getting the chance to experience the sheer joy it brings.

Vocalist Beth told us, “Not gonna lie, 2021 has been one of the worst years yet, not musically but mentally & physically it’s really taken its toll, we would love to be all sweetness and light but for us collectively it’s been full of heartbreak, an oophorectomy, instability and mental breakdowns. However ironically the only saving grace for us in 2021 has been the music. We finally released our new single, Candy Mountain, and got to throw our souls into some killer shows. 2022 presents a glimmer of hope for us, our EP is coming out, a tour has been booked & lots of things to come. Here’s to the future and to thriving not just surviving!”

If you haven’t been lucky enough to catch LibraLibra yet, this week they’ve announced performances at Icebreaker Festival, 2000 Trees and a slot on The National Lottery’s #ReviveLive tour with Music Venue Trust. Check out their new single Candy Mountain, and link to their socials and music here for more details of live dates.

No more than they deserve, we’re wishing LibraLibra the best of years in 2022, and extend that to all of you as well – thanks to everyone who contributes to, reads and supports Breaking Glass in any way; we wouldn’t still be here without you.

Words and photos by Siobhan

1st December 2021

Live – VLURE | MEMES at The Green Door Store Brighton

Posted in Live Music, Review

VLURE & MEMES at The Green Door Store, Brighton, 27th November 2021

Back in the days before a certain pandemic took over our lives, VLURE shared the visual for their track Desire, an insight into what was to come from the Glasgow five piece. I watched it repeatedly, weirdly fascinated by its almost tribal ferocity. Fast forward to Saturday night at Brighton’s Green Door Store and it’s time to find out whether the same urgency is still brimming over.

First up though, the powerhouse that is MEMES warm things up on the coldest night of the year. There may be only two of them (three if you count the drumming laptop) but what they lack in numbers they make up in volume and spiky socially observant lyrics. Talking Heads meets early Young Knives turned up to eleven if you will, in a good way for avoidance of doubt. Well worth a watch if they’re passing your way. 

And so after much anticipation, VLURE hit the stage and any idea that they wouldn’t live up to expectations is instantly quashed. With a breathtakingly solid collection of songs now under their belt, there are no dips in the set. The pulsating wall of 80s electronica fronted with a visceral vocal that makes up Shattered Faith is a standout that has the venue shaking, the actual storm outside overshadowed by the manufactured one inside. 

Intense, immense, and the most welcome of antidotes to the past eighteen months, VLURE are everything you’d want them to be and more. Just a glance at everyone’s faces in the crowd shows the pure joy in the room. There were stacks of gigs on in Brighton to choose from on Saturday, I can only thank the powers that be that we had the foresight to be at this one.

VLURE | MEMES

Words and photos by Siobhan

29th November 2021

Mutations Festival 2021 (Brighton)

Posted in Festival, Live Music, Review

Mutations Festival, Brighton, 4th – 7th November 2021

The past eighteen months have been tough on the music industry and, along with the hit to musicians in not being able to play live, many independent venues have struggled to stay afloat. Bringing an abundance of current and breakthrough talent to Brighton, Mutations Festival offered up the chance to take in four days of live music and support a whole heap of local grassroots venues at the same time.

With some tough clashes to choose between, we started Thursday in style with Holiday Ghosts, opening proceedings in the shadow of the pier amusements at Patterns. Singing songs about the city you’re in was as good a way to kick things off as any, and the standard was set for what was to come.

Moving across to the largest venue on the agenda, Chalk played host to the ethereal songs  and bitter-sweet musings of Bill Ryder-Jones. A world away from the TV advert-friendly indie pop of his days with The Coral (though still repping them on his guitar strap), Ryder-Jones has proved to be an accomplished writer, singer and producer. His set could have been twice as long and still not long enough. Closing the first day, This is the Kit filled the room with the sounds of enough instruments to start their own music shop and an ambience that would send everyone home happy and ready to return for more.

Left: This is the Kit, Top Right: Holiday Ghosts, Bottom Right: Bill Ryder-Jones

Friday night and the lights were low, and in a nice touch that ensured Hove wasn’t left out of the picture, the evening’s activities moved across to The Brunswick and The Old Market. Highlights at The Brunswick included Hull’s Low Hummer, wearing their indie hearts firmly on their sleeves, they have a new album release if you’re inclined to hear more. Glasgow two-piece Memes engaged the crowd with their charm, energy and Hazmat suits, ending with a singalong to a German techno track, as you do. Folly Group had to take a short intermission for a guitar string break but picked things up and made a strong impression.

Along the road at The Old Market, the ‘main house’ drew in a big crowd as soon as doors opened. Hotel Lux took starting position, their brand of nonchalant Dr Feelgood-esque contemplations well received by likely a different audience to usual. Next up, Billy Nomates seemingly actually has lots of mates who knew her songs word for word and bounced off her vigourous performance. The biggest pull of the night came in the form of Mr Maserati, king of the migraines himself, the inexplicably charming Baxter Dury. For no discernible reason abandoning his trademark suit for a full camo and goggles ensemble, Dury entertained as only he can, a set showcasing most recent album The Night Chancers while incorporating a string of old favourites and new songs alike. The suit returned with his encore, the crowd had a party, Friday night ended well.

Top: Billy Nomates, Left: Hotel Lux, Right x 2: Baxter Dury

A full day on Saturday began by confirming Keg’s status as ones to watch, except ironically not every could get in to watch them as their reputation meant there were queues up the stairs to The Folklore Rooms to see them. It’s testament to the quality of a band when they sound as good from outside as they do inside the room; their charisma, humour and stacks of energy warrant the hype. And for those who missed out, there would have been photos but it was so packed and hot it fogged up all three available camera lenses.

A trio of recommended acts followed at The Albert, a tight squeeze for the frenetic pace of TV Priest, a very welcome return for the slick post-punk of Social Haul, and a thankfully rescheduled set from Famous who are clearly not as famous as they should be. In the midst of this veritable hat trick of musical delight, back at the Folklore Rooms, Legss were possibly one of the only bands that were ready to start early and had to wait, winning over the room once things got going with their raucous South London vitality. After a quick break, it was back to Patterns to catch some wit and riffs from Mush, followed by current 6 Music darlings Yard Act at Chalk.

TV Priest

Left: Mush, Top Right: Famous, Bottom Right: Yard Act

Social Haul

And so we made it to day four. An early start paid off as we were treated to a spiky yet enchanting performance from deep tan at The Albert, a welcome calm before the beautiful chaos to follow as Lynks took centre-stage at Chalk. Never one to forget their mask, Lynks put on a show that was far from your regular Sunday afternoon entertainment, complete with adroit choreography and guest vocals from Barbara the table. Imagine if you’d come to Mutations and missed Lynks, that would have been a great shame indeed.

deep tan

Left & Top Right: Lynks, Bottom Right: deep tan

The rest of the day kept the stakes raised high, continuing with an immersive set from Nuha Ruby Ra at Komedia Studio. A late start but definitely worth the wait for PVA – having seen them before in multiple venues, Chalk seemed like the perfect fit and they once again balanced keeping existing fans happy whilst doubtless picking up new ones along the way.

There were all kinds of good things happening at The Umlauts’ slot at Patterns, an art school project with the potential to become a masterpiece, check them out if you get the chance. And later on the same stage, way more established but still sounding fresh, Big Joanie supplied a lovely atmosphere, some great tunes and a message of inclusivity to lift the spirits of anyone who may have been flagging.

Left: Nuha Ruby Ra, Top Right: The Umlauts, Bottom Right: Big Joanie

Finishing up at Chalk, Scalping managed to speak volumes whilst only playing instrumentals, silhouetted on stage and painting pictures not just with projections but also the intricacies of their music. This was followed by BEAK> playing their blend of reverb heavy, synth driven tracks to a full house, and we ended the weekend with lots to reflect on.

BEAK>

It’s heart-warming to feel like live music is a normal part of life again, there are stacks of good bands and artists to see, and we can only be grateful that all the venues involved survived the non-year that was 2020. All in all, Mutations was a treat for many reasons, and we’re already looking forward to seeing what they do next year.

Mutations Festival

Words / photos by Callum / Siobhan

10th November 2021

Live – Walt Disco at The Hope & Ruin Brighton

Posted in Live Music, Review

Walt Disco at The Hope & Ruin, Brighton, 1st November 2021

Scotland has produced some brilliant artists over the years. From the antagonistic wall of sound instigated by the Mary Chain and refined by Glasvegas, to the pure joy of jangle pop from Orange Juice via the perfect vocal courtesy of The Associates, it’s been a journey with multiple highs and doesn’t look to be stopping any time soon.

Though there are plenty more Scottish bands of note who have emerged in the past few years, Walt Disco are surely sitting at the top of tree, raining down hailstone sized drops of glam and euphoria whilst they’re there.

Their live performance has gone from strength to strength and, as their tour came to a close at Brighton’s Hope & Ruin on Monday night, there was a sense that things can only keep spiraling upwards. Their setlist doesn’t hit a bad note, their music plucks the best of the past and rolls it into their own unique sound, and with no offence (or maybe a little) to all the cooler than school bands who wouldn’t dare crack a smile, it’s refreshing to see the sheer enjoyment of what’s happening from both the band and the crowd.

A night to remember – Walt Disco are not to be missed, bring your dancing shoes and get involved.

Catch up with Walt Disco here

Words and photos by Siobhan

3rd November 2021

 

 

Live – Skindred | Trash Boat at Corporation Sheffield

Posted in Live Music, Review

Skindred & Trash Boat at Corporation, Sheffield, 22nd October 2021

Sheffield Corporation was heaving on Friday, full of anticipation for a brilliant night of music, which didn’t disappoint!

(Horrendous Friday night traffic on the motorway meant a late arrival, so apologies to openers, Sheffield’s Cellar Door Moon Crow).

Hertfordshire’s Alt/Rock band Trash Boat brought the house down, interacting with the crowd and delivering a loud, impassioned performance.

It was clear that the audience was teaming with Skindred fans who knew every word and nuance of every song, jumping and singing along as once voice during Benji Webb’s call and response moments. This was an overwhelming gig, not least because of the volume of people all in one place! Numbers aside, Skindred are back and bringing their fans out to play!

Skindred | Trash Boat | Cellar Door Moon Crow

Words and photos by Tina Sherwood

28th October 2021

Live – The Hot Damn! | The Addiction | Ghosts of Men at The Old Salutation Inn Nottingham

Posted in Live Music, Review

The Hot Damn, Addiction & Ghosts of Men at The Old Salutation Inn, Nottingham, 15th October 2021

The Hot Damn! Gals at The Sal

Resident ghosts at The Old Salutation Inn, Nottingham must have been rocking last Friday (15th October) as The Hot Damn! gave a show of dynamic proportions relative to the size of the venue, much to the delight of everyone in attendance!

The whole evening, promoted by local guys, The Public House Brand, had a great vibe, with top music from 3 great bands.

There may be only 2 band members, but Essex openers, Ghosts Of Men, made a massive impression on an unsuspecting audience, bringing the house down with their own distinctive Heavy Alt/Rock sound, gaining a host of new fans in the process.

Local band, The Addiction, have introduced a new singer and drummer since they last played the venue. Effie Wilson promises raw power vocals, alongside intense percussive energy from drummer, Dean Cruxon , giving the band a commanding Punk/Alt/Rock sound, warming the crowd up nicely before the headline act.

The Hot Damn! are a 4 piece with an impeccable Rock pedigree, harnessing experience from their times variously with The Amorettes, Tequila Mockingbyrd, Aaron Buchanan and the Cult Classics and New Device. They know just how it’s done and should be cited as inspiration for any young women with their hearts on rock stardom.

It was also heartening to note a diversity of ages and gender in the crowd, an accolade to the band for the appeal that their music conveys.

With a large inflatable banana doing the rounds of the audience as the band began to play, The Hot Damn! showed just why they are worthy of their name. These girls rock! A full 45-minute set of high-octane Rock and Roll left the audience calling for ‘more!’

Personal highlights were the incredible dual guitar riffs of Gill Montgomery and Laurie Buchanan, (taking me right back to the early years of Thin Lizzie’s Phil Lynott and Scott Goreham) and an exciting rendition of the band’s debut single, Dance Around.

The Attic at The Old Salutation Inn is an intimate venue, probably much smaller than the headliners are used to, but lucky for us, they gave an outstanding show, allowing us the chance to feel that this was just a little bit more special than usual.

All in all, an excellent night! Well done, The Public House Brand for a great show!

The Hot Damn! | The Addiction | Ghosts of Men

Words and Photos by Tina Sherwood

19th October 2021

Live – The Ninth Wave | Youth Sector | Priestgate at The Hope & Ruin Brighton

Posted in Live Music, Review

The Ninth Wave, Youth Sector & Priestgate at The Hope & Ruin Brighton, 9th October 2021

Another tour that’s been on the receiving end of postponements and rescheduling finally made its way to Brighton on Saturday; The Ninth Wave ensuring that everyone was left feeling the wait was more than worthwhile.

Supporting the supports is always important. It’s where all your favourite artists started out, it’s a chance for newer acts to play in front of different crowds and get their name out there. But if you needed any further reason to get down early, this line up offered it up in bucketloads.

First up, an absolute killer set from Priestgate. Making a quantum leap into seemingly everyone’s ‘best new bands’ lists (and rightly so), it feels like lockdown has given them an opportunity to tighten up everything to bursting point, the inevitable implosion of which results in some off the scale tunes and a performance to match. Love that feeling of finding something special and wanting to see and hear more – don’t miss them if they’re playing anywhere near you.

A change of pace and tailoring as Youth Sector picked up the middle slot. With their riffs as slick as their suits, they didn’t put a foot wrong as they treated the crowd to their zippy brand of art rock. It was certainly shaping up to be quite a night.

Finally, the return of The Ninth Wave, the packed crowd delighted to see them back on stage. From the almost tribal  Happy Days to the beauty and melancholy of Piece and Pound Coins, it’s clear that it’s not just the old songs but the new songs too that are firm favourites with the crowd. While there’s always a theatricality about their shows, the band also look like they’re enjoying what they do and it’s fair to say that everyone else in the room is of the same frame of mind. The Ninth Wave keep going from strength to strength, it will be intriguing to see what comes next.

The Ninth Wave | Youth Sector | Priestgate

Words and photos by Siobhan

12th October 2021

Live – The Subways | Lauran Hibberd at The Wedgewood Rooms Portsmouth

Posted in Live Music

The Subways & Lauran Hibberd, The Wedgewood Rooms Portsmouth, 2nd October 2021

Another great night at The Wedgewood Rooms as The Subways brought their 16th anniversary Young for Eternity tour to Portsmouth. They played 2 nights in a row at the Wedge as the original show had been booked at The Pyramids, which sadly no longer exists as a venue. Support came from south coast favourite Lauran Hibberd.

Check out our gallery below…

Lauran Hibberd

The Subways

Photos by Hannah Mesquitta

11th October 2021

Live – Nick Cave & Warren Ellis at Royal Albert Hall London

Posted in Live Music, Review

Nick Cave & Warren Ellis, Royal Albert Hall London, 6th October 2021

From the mayhem of The Birthday Party to the wonder of The Bad Seeds, through collaborations with PJ Harvey and Kylie amongst numerous others, Nick Cave has emerged as one of the most outstanding performers you will have the privilege of seeing live. Captivating, intense and funny by parts, it’s hard to think who could accompany him and still manage at times to steal the show, until of course you consider Warren Ellis. Accomplished in playing an assemblage of instruments, and with a wonderful sense of both humour and theatricality, Ellis is the perfect partner in crime and the pair delighted fans by recording and releasing Carnage during lockdown, their music the perfect escape from the harsh reality of the pandemic.

Taking the album on tour, with an eclectic mix of songs from different eras added for good measure, their production is simple but slick and holds the attention of the audience from start to double encored finish. The setting of Royal Albert Hall provides a suitably dramatic and elegant backdrop for the music and, despite its size, Cave executes that magic trick of his that makes it feel like the smallest, most intimate of settings for everyone.

Music to heal the soul, a fantastic venue, a night to be remembered.

Nick Cave & Warren Ellis – Carnage

Words and photos by Siobhan

8th October 2021

 

Tour News – White Lies

Posted in Live Music, Tour

There’s been a buzz of expectation emanating from the White Lies’ camp lately, as the band have posted teasers for new music and live dates. Yesterday saw confirmation of a new album As I Try Not To Fall Apart, due for release in February 2022, plus a string of UK & Ireland tour dates in March before heading across Europe.

The band have also shared the title track from the album, saying, “We wrote this song quickly, late one night, and often the songs which come quickest are written from the gut and the heart, not with the head. We wanted the melody to feel like a hymn, to give the confessional lyrics weight despite being wrapped up as a pop song. It’s about accepting vulnerability as a man, and knowing it’s ok to be broken. There’s never been a more pressing time to spread the message that it’s ok to not be ok”.

UK/Ireland tour dates are as follows:

10.03.22 – NOTTINGHAM – Rock City
11.03.22 – MANCHESTER – Academy
12.03.22 – NEWCASTLE – Boiler Shop
13.03.22 – BIRMINGHAM – Institute
15.03.22 – GLASGOW – SWG3 TV Studio
16.03.22 – LEEDS – Stylus
18.03.22 – BRIGHTON – Chalk
19.03.22 – BRISTOL – Academy
21.03.22 – DUBLIN – Vicar Street
22.03.22 – LIVERPOOL – Grand Central Hall
24.03.22 – NORWICH – UEA
25.03.22 – OXFORD – Academy
26.03.22 – LONDON – Hammersmith Apollo

Tickets for all shows go on sale at 10am Thursday 30th September
Pre-sale tickets are exclusively available from 10am today via www.whitelies.com/live

The album can be pre-ordered here

28th September 2021

Live – Hallan | Public Body | Safety Jacket at The Hope & Ruin Brighton

Posted in Live Music, Review

Hallan, Public Body & Safety Jacket at The Hope & Ruin, Brighton, 10th September 2021

Blending post-punk spoken word with infectious tunes and a splash of dry social commentary, Hallan are deservedly making a name for themselves and standing out against the glut of new young bands emerging in a similar genre.

Friday’s Brighton gig showcased their ability to transfer this to an accomplished live performance full of fitful swagger and with a big response from the crowd. The future’s looking bright for the four piece, catch them if you can.

Gallery from The Hope & Ruin below – Hallan with local support from Safety Jacket and Public Body.

Safety Jacket

Public Body

Hallan

Words and photos by Siobhan

13th September 2021

Victorious Festival 2021 (Portsmouth)

Posted in Festival, Live Music

Victorious Festival, Southsea Common, 28th – 29th August 2021

Sunshine, live music and a whole bunch of happy people gathered by the seaside for a long awaited return to festival life at this year’s Victorious. With a stack of great artists to choose from on the line up, the weekend was a huge success; check out our gallery below for a selection of the delights on offer …

Black Honey

The Lathums

Noon Garden

Idol State, Porridge Radio

The Clockworks

Glasvegas

Kawala

The Mysterines, Fugitive Orchestra, Me and the Moon


Nile Rodgers and Chic

Fontaines DC

Manic Street Preachers

Early bird tickets for Victorious 2022 are on sale now here

Words and photos by Siobhan

3rd September 2021

Live – The Cribs at Pryzm Kingston

Posted in Live Music, Review

The Cribs at Pryzm, Kingston for Banquet Records, 18th August 2021

After a run of postponed dates at the end of last year, The Cribs announced that their show at Pryzm in Kingston, an out-store performance for Banquet Records, would go ahead on Wednesday. Seeing the band return on top form felt like a proper return for live music, and a set containing songs old and new made for a very happy crowd. Kudos goes to all at Banquet and Pryzm, and those attending, for making this feel like a safe place to be, with pre-testing and lots of mutual respect on the night.

New music from The Cribs is always a treat and, for those wanting a regular fix, you can subscribe to the Sonic Blew Singles Club here for a series of 7″ releases. Check out our gallery from Wednesday night below.

Words and photos by Siobhan

20th August 2021

Live – BlitZ at The Old Wine Vaults

Posted in Live Music, Review

BlitZ at The Old Wine Vaults, Eastwood, 19th June 2021

BlitZing the House Down

It seemed like forever, yet no time at all, as Nottingham rockers, BlitZ re-ignited audience passion at The Old Wine Vaults, Eastwood last Saturday.

Frontman, Stuart Corden, warmed up the ears of those who had been missing live sounds for so long,  with an acoustic covers set before the main event.

Within the first few bars of their opening number, Damage, The Spirit of the BlitZ was back & regular band fans and new audience members alike were riding high on a set list of great classic rock tunes from the band’s first two albums.

BlitZ are an extraordinarily exciting band to see live, reminiscent of the big rockers of the 70s/80s. You can catch them next in Nottingham at The Old Salutation Inn on August 1st, with guests: Blues Rockers, Yesterday’s Gone from Chesterfield and, as part of their first ever tour of England,  young Sleaze/Glam rockers from the Highlands of Scotland,  Bad Actress. Tickets are available here.

Catch up with BlitZ here

Words and photos by Tina Sherwood

We’re delighted to welcome Tina to the Breaking Glass photography team and look forward to featuring more of her stunning images as live music continues to open up; do check out the rest of her work too.

21st June 2021

Tour of Wales / Taith Cymru

Posted in Festival, Live Music
An electric guitar leaning against a stool plus details for the Tour of Wales (Taith Cymru) streaming events for Independent Venue Week

Tour of Wales / Taith Cymru (Independent Venue Week 2021)

This time last January, preparations were in full swing for a flurry of gigs across the UK to celebrate Independent Venue Week. This year a more innovative approach is required and as ever, Horizons (the music project from BBC Wales and the Arts Council of Wales) has stepped up to support and promote breakthrough artists from the current Welsh music scene. Each day this week, the team will be broadcasting sessions from a different grassroots venue, bringing a cross section of musicians and genres.

Weekday performances come from hip hop artist Mace the Great, country singer Jodie Marie, rock band Those Damn Crows, R&B singer Faith, urban brother & sister Leila McKenzie and K(e)nz, singer-songwriter Rona Mac, lo-fi / spoken word artist Ennio The Little Brother, blues rock pairing Alffa, electro pop artist Malan, new duo Body Water and a solo performance from Gwilym frontman Ifan Pritchard. Additionally, the weekend brings more Welsh rock from Holding Absence on Saturday 30th and Junior on Sunday 31st.

Tour of Wales / Taith Cymru is supported by Creative Wales and BBC Introducing and the venues taking part are Le Pub Casnewydd / Newport, Sin City Abertawe / Swansea, Queen’s Hall Arberth / Narberth, Galeri Caernarfon and Neuadd Ogwen Bethesda.

Sessions will be broadcast at midday each day this week, starting today, so set your alarm for some lunchtime tunes and check out the wealth of talent on display. It’s so important, now more than ever, that we keep supporting musicians, venues and everyone involved in the industry, and this will serve as a sweet reminder why. You can tune in here.

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Words by Siobhan

25th January 2021

 

Best Music Shots of 2020

Posted in Gallery, Live Music, Photography

Picture this!

Given the devastating impact on the live music scene this year, we debated whether to go ahead with the annual Best Music Shots gallery. However, popular opinion said yes so here we are and, looking at the photos submitted, what a good call that was. All images have been taken either outside of lockdown or at Covid-safe / socially distanced events and it’s definitely good for the soul to remember those moments. Hopefully, things are slowly mending; whatever happens next one thing’s for sure, we’ll never take easy access to live music for granted again.

Delighted to have some of our regular photographers involved here – your contributions are always massively appreciated. And equally it’s great to have some new faces taking part – you’re all most welcome and we hope to see more from you in the future.

Photos are in no particular order, mixed by genre and style, so find a comfy seat and check them all out to avoid missing anything… enjoy.

(Header photo above by Mark Cartwright, details in article)

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1. The Darkness
2. Catfish & the Bottlemen
Alcatraz, Milan, February 2020

By Oriana Spadaro – Website | Instagram

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1. Simeon Hammond Dallas
The Old Joinery, Greenwich, London, October 2020
2. Bandini
The Old Joinery, Greenwich, London, December 2020

By Petra Eujane Photography – Website | Instagram

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1. Jamie Bower of Counterfeit
Manchester Ritz, February 2020
2. Lazarus Kane
Georgian Theatre, Stockton, February 2020

By Steve White – Flickr

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1. Gordon James & the Power
Strathpeffer Pavilion, Ross-shire, February 2020
2. Forgetting the Future
Potting Shed Garden Festival, Inverness, July 2020

By Alan Cruickshank Photographic – Facebook

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1. Lauren Lo Sung
Liverpool Digital Music Festival, EBGBs, August 2020
2. Callum of The Bottom Line
Jimmy’s, Liverpool, January 2020

By Sarah (Shots by Sarah) – Instagram | Facebook

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1. Dominic Corry of The Battery Farm
2. Paul Worrall of The Battery Farm
The Club Academy, Manchester, October 2020

By Gary Hough (allthecoolbandsphotography) – Website | Instagram | Twitter

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Rein
Berns, Stockholm, January 2020


By Catarina Olausson – Website | Instagram

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1. Conor Marshall of Sylosis
Islington Assembly Hall, London, February 2020
2. Markus Vanhala of Insomnium
Islington Assembly Hall, London, January 2020

By Chris Andrews – Instagram

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Sugarstone
Night People, Manchester, January 2020

By Alana Thomas – Instagram

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1. King Nun
Bodega, Nottingham, February 2020
2. Emzae
Rock City Beta, Beat the Streets, Nottingham, January 2020

By Nigel King – Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

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Brian Shuck & the Local Legends
Sneaky Pete’s, Lewisville, Texas, September 2020

By Robert C Maxfield II – Website | Instagram | Facebook

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Kelly Jones of Stereophonics
Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham, March 2020

By Tina Sherwood (Rock Shotz Live Music Imaging) – Instagram | Facebook

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1. Accident
2. Gemišt
Monte Paradiso Hardcore Punk Festival, Pula, Croatia, September 2020

By David Gasson – Website | Instagram | Chasing the Light Art

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1. Beatles tribute show put on by staff, students & alumni feat. Alex Mullins
Paradise Valley Community College Fine Arts Theater, Phoenix, March 2020
2. Jared & the Mill
Desert Botanical Gardens, Phoenix, February 2020

By Jennifer Mullins – Website | Instagram

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1. Obongjayar
Village Underground, London, February 2020
2. Fat White Family
Windmill Brixton, London, February 2020

By Anna Louise Yorke – Website | Instagram

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1. Ríoghnach Connolly
2. Caoilfhoinn Rose
Carlton Club, Manchester, November 2020

By Ingrid Turner – Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

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1. John Robb of Goldblade
2. Keith Warren of The Adicts
Great British Alternative Festival, Butlins Minehead, February 2020

By Mark Cartwright – Flickr | Facebook | Twitter

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1. Dry Cleaning
The Green Door Store, Brighton, February 2020
2. Lynks
The Rossi Bar, Brighton, February 2020

By Siobhan (16 Beasley St Photography) – Website | Instagram | Twitter

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Enormous thanks to all the talented photographers here for sharing their awesome shots – fingers tightly crossed that you’ll all be back in the pit in 2021. You can see more from everyone featured and follow their socials via the links shown. Stay safe everyone.

All pictures are copyrighted by the photographer credited; please do not use without gaining their permission first.

17th December 2020

Playing through the Pandemic

Posted in Live Music

An insight into how the global Coronavirus pandemic has affected the lives of musicians

By Bethany Clayton

2020 has been the year that no one would have been able to predict. If someone had told me last year that there would be a deadly disease that would spread across the entire globe resulting in millions of deaths and in a raise of unemployment and potential poverty for thousands – I would have thought that they had just told me the outline to a new apocalypse movie conceived by Hollywood film writers. However, that is the unfortunate reality that many of us find ourselves in this year. Many people and industries have been affected by this pandemic in different ways. I talked to two musicians who are at the beginning of their journey within the music industry to see how the global Coronavirus pandemic has changed their lives this year. I spoke to Nottingham’s Connor Harrsion, a solo artist who goes by the pseudonym Stature. Connor produces innovative garage music available to listen to on Spotify. I also spoke to Wakefield’s Andrew Horn who is a multiple band member of two folk bands, Aelfen and Moss, and modern-rock band Possum whose music is available to listen to on Spotify and Bandcamp.

For many musicians there have been a number of challenges that they have had to face due to the current pandemic. The main and potentially disastrous challenge is the cancellation of concerts and tours for these artists. Live performances serve as a main source of income for many musicians and are a vital lifeline for smaller solo artists and bands that are trying to earn a living within the music industry. Solo artist Connor Harrsion revealed that many of the musicians that he knows personally, or would have worked alongside prior to the pandemic, have had to sadly find alternative jobs within the music service industry or elsewhere due to no longer having the means to support themselves as musicians because of the effects of the pandemic on people’s livelihoods. Andrew Horn told me that, “It was when a gig for my band Moss was cancelled in Todmordon that I realised things were going to be very different for me.” This was one of the first cancellations that Andrew and his band members had to face this year as well as his third tour with his band Possum cancelled and a venue for his folk band Aelfen to play at what would have been 2020’s Boomtown festival also cancelled, following the UK restrictions on large outdoor events and temporary nationwide lockdowns. There were many musicians facing the same issues as Andrew as events and tours were cancelled resulting in a loss of income for many. However, Connor Harrsion noted an inventive way that many musicians have been able to still secure some income and revenue. Many bands and solo artists have opted to host live performances over social media, utilising formats such as ‘live mode’ on social media platforms like Instagram, as a way to gain donations to allow them the funds to keep on making music for their fans and continue to work in a profession that they love. This mode of virtual performance displays a temporary solution to the challenges posed by this current pandemic displaying the creative ingenuity of our favourite artists and bands.

(Stature on Spotify)

Additionally, Connor revealed to me that his solo work as Stature creates a current source of income through streaming services. “A lot of people have been listening to more music which means more streams and royalty income,” Connor then stated; “which is generally nothing in comparison to what a musician would earn playing live”. For example the streaming service Spotify provides a rate of £0.0028 in royalties for one stream so it would take one thousand streams for a musician to earn £2.80 in royalties. Therefore, it is important to note that the revenue made from streaming services and virtual performances does not compare to the income a musician would earn from in-person live performances. Andrew told me that he believes that live in-person performances could still happen during the pandemic in a safe and Covid-secure way by utilising social distancing measures. This would then allow for many musicians to earn a liveable wage once more, provide business to venues and event holders and keep fans happy. This revelation came to Andrew during his time performing at the Cloth Cat Open Mic Night at the Packhorse in Leeds during the summer, when the UK restrictions temporarily relaxed. The event implemented socially distanced measures such as audience members had to sit at tables in groups no larger than six and wear a mask whenever walking about the venue. Andrew told me that, “all our lives we have taken things for granted like live music and it’s only now that there are restrictions that we realise the importance of such things!”. From this experience Andrew believes socially distanced events could be a new and profitable future for the music industry and we could once again appreciate the pleasure and importance of experiencing live music. These types of performances would supply a means of overcoming some of the most damaging effects of the pandemic as these socially distanced events would allow for the music industry to regain business and for musicians to once again earn a liveable income.

(Possum on Spotify)

As I discussed the obstacles set by the pandemic with both Connor and Andrew they both noted some positives that have also arisen from this uncertain time. For Andrew, during the first UK nationwide lockdown he was unable to meet and rehearse music with his fellow bandmates. Andrew decided to utlise this time instead to work on his first solo album which will be released and available to download on Bandcamp. If it was not for the lockdown, therefore, we would not be gifted with this fabulous new album by Andrew Horn. Connor also stated that the free time that lockdown provided allowed him to work on new music. He also noted that because of the free time that many people have found themselves with during lockdown that “new labels are popping up and have been on the hunt to add to their roster so that in a sense it’s created a higher chance for smaller artists getting noticed”, a silver lining therefore for new musicians looking to be signed. It is evident then that along with the negative effects that the pandemic has created there has also been some positive impacts made on the music industry. Solo artists have had more time to create and release new music which will no doubt keep fans smiling. New businesses such as new record labels have been founded providing more opportunities and business for musicians.

Throughout this apocalyptic Hollywood movie that has somehow seemed to become the reality that our society is living in, there have been numerous effects evident that the pandemic has created upon the livelihoods of musicians and the music industry at large. Such as, some positive effects: brand new music being created and the introduction of virtual performances as a new means to experience music, and some negative effects: the loss of jobs and incomes. However both Andrew and Connor share a consensus that the future remains hopeful and, once some of the disastrous effects of the pandemic begin to de-escalate, then these talented musicians can continue with their livelihoods without disruption and fans can once more enjoy the thrilling venture of listening to new music and watching live performances.

You can listen to Stature and Possum on the links above; Andrew’s solo album is due for release soon.

Words by Bethany Clayton

19th November 2020

Photography – When Covid-19 Stopped the Music

Posted in Live Music, Photography

When Covid -19 Stopped the Music
by Jennifer Mullins

This refrain from Joni Mitchell’s song Yellow Taxi, ‘Don’t it always seem to go, that you don’t know you’ve got ‘til it’s gone,’ seems to sum up the situation of live music at venues being put on hold to stop the spread of the virus. Hopefully, the small venues and musicians that have created a community there will have a place to return once this pandemic is over.

Alex Mullins at the Rebel Lounge

I began to get into music photography when my son, Alex, began playing open mics. His first show was at Joe’s Grotto in Phoenix, Arizona. Because he was underage, I had to accompany him. It was the first time that I had seen him perform, though I had heard him play in the house. I was blown away at how calm, confident, and talented he was as he took the stage. A year into his playing at different venues, I began to take photos and videos. My primary photography focus at this time was on nature.

Top: Fans at Pub Rock
Middle: Alex Mullins
Coyote Tango at the Rebel Lounge

Once Alex formed his band, Alex Mullins and the Royal, I began going to different venues with low light. It was a whole new photography learning experience as I had to learn to adjust to low light photography. I met some of the nicest young photographers who helped me with camera settings and encouraged me to move from shooting in auto to manual mode. They also helped me with editing techniques as I found my unique style.

Top: El West at Crescent Ballroom
Bottom: Holiday Extravaganza at the Van Buren 

In the beginning, I would stay and photograph only Alex’s band, then head home. As time went on, I began to stay and watch other bands. Before I knew it, I was driving around the greater Phoenix area to different venues to discover the vibrant local music scene. I found not only so much musical talent, but a community. Music is meant to be heard live with other people who come together to share their love of the sound the musicians create.

All at Crescent Ballroom – Top: Rival Coast
Middle: Luxxe  
Bottom: Harrison Fjord

A camera gives you a different way of seeing the world and that’s true when photographing a gig. You have to move fast to capture the moment because each set is non-stop and there are no second chances. Since my focus was on the viewfinder, I would forget that people were seeing me in action. I was also posting on Instagram and people would get to know who I was through there as well. I would always introduce myself to musicians and they would say, “I know who you are.” It’s been great to not only see Alex grow as a musician but to get to know other musicians and fans.

Top: Jared and the Mill at Rhythm Room
Bottom: Jared and the Mill at the Rebel Lounge

Now all the venues are closed, the musicians are not playing live and the music community can no longer gather safely. It’s great when my favorite musicians livestream but I miss seeing them on stage as much as I’m sure they miss playing. The collection that I created was capturing the musicians and fans. The connection that only music creates can be seen in both the musicians’ faces and the fans’ reactions.

WHSTLE at the Van Buren

All words and photos are © Jennifer Mullins – you can find more of Jennifer’s work on her website and follow her on Instagram 

We recently featured some of Jennifer’s lockdown photos; you can view them here 

10th July 2020

 

Interstellar Food Drive – Online

Posted in Live Music, Review

Interstellar Food Drive Online, 20th June 2020

For a number of years now, Portsmouth’s Strong Island Recordings have hosted a day of live music in exchange for donations to the local foodbank. With gigs and festivals still currently a pipe dream, on Saturday they took their Interstellar Food Drive online, in collaboration with Pie & Vinyl, Honeymooner Records, Velvet Candy, Hard of Hearing Music and Thank God For Sinners, bringing streamed performances from artists around the world. The event ran in association with Love Record Stores Day and encouraged donations to the Trussell Trust and other charities.

LA Peach

Tom Bryan

Given that the novelty of taking photos of the beach has long since worn thin, I thought it would be good to shoot some musicians again so spent a strange chunk of the afternoon pointing my camera at computer screens. And yes, I’m aware there’s such a thing as a screenshot but if people are doing photo shoots over Zoom then why not. Oddly, I found I still defaulted to my favoured slightly to the left front of stage position, make of that what you will.

Thyla, Sunfruits, Freya Beer

Hussy, Tugboat Captain

Rosie Alena

As well as seeing favourite bands, a lot of us are missing that chance to find something new, and the food drive gave just that opportunity with a whole bunch of talent from far and wide. Kicking things off, an Australian trio of laid-back psych from Sunfruits, kaleidoscopic riffs from Dear Doonan and some fine indie tunes from Badgers. Closer to home, there were great mini sets from local south coast artists including Megan Linford, Barbudo, Ban Summers, Public Body and Thyla. A stunning showcase from Speedy Wunderground’s new kids on the block Tiña (header photo) suggests that they will very definitely be on the ones to watch list, and no less chaos and ripped denim than you would expect from the illustrious Lynks Afrikka, proving that sofa performance is not to be taken lightly. Too many more to mention individually (see poster for complete line up) but suffice to say that every artist was well worth the watch and I have to give a shout out to LA Peach for the shower cap and shades combo, sure to catch on.

Lynks Afrikka

Fake Turins, Megan Linford, LIME

Tropa Magica

The final set came from LA’s Tropa Magica, closing an excellent day with some suitably festival fuelled cumbian-punk. Am so looking forward to when we can do all this in person again but, for now, if you haven’t had the chance yet, you can watch the full stream on the YouTube link here. If you’re able, you can donate directly to the causes listed below via their links.

The Trussell Trust
Helping food banks to provide practical support to people in crisis

Brixton Soup Kitchen
A Brixton based service for the homeless and people in need

Portsmouth Hive
A local cooperative from the voluntary and community sector helping people to build independence

Words and photos by Siobhan

22nd June 2020

Instore – Porridge Radio at Pie & Vinyl Southsea

Posted in Instore, New Music

Porridge Radio, Pie & Vinyl, Southsea, 10th March 2020

Playing a string of record shop instores to promote their new album Every Bad, Porridge Radio paid a visit to surely the most intimate setting of them all, the wonderfully eclectic environment of Southsea’s Pie & Vinyl, a shop with music, memorabilia and, of course, pies.

With everyone squeezed in, they played a beguiling set kicking off with Born Confused, its questioning tone and chant of ‘Thank you for making me happy’ resonating through the shop. The tracks are full of energy and emotion, the addition of violin strings in the background adding another layer of atmosphere and sentiment. The album is an accomplished piece of work and will no doubt delight fans and new listeners alike – pictures from the instore below…

Catch up with Porridge Radio here – Every Bad is released via Secretly Canadian tomorrow, 13th May 2020

Words and photos by Siobhan

12th March 2020