#grassroots music venues

[ijustwantedtobeoneofthestrokesuk]

Back On The Road

2022 was the year of recovery, after being locked up for what felt like years it was time for artists to recoup what they missed out on and tour relentlessly. Which, for one, wasn’t as easy as it was before as there was more artists hitting the road at the same time, ever. This meant that scheduling tours wasn’t so simple, trying to make it as efficient and cost-effective was a minefield, trying to shift tickets when so many tours was a struggle and trying to get hold of essentials such as tour buses and crew proved to be a challenge when demand outweighed supply. Then there was the limitations from Brexit, cheers guys.

These challenges made touring less lucrative than it once was, which put pressure on other avenues to make money, for survival. There was a 10-month wait for vinyl so the opportunity for a spontaneous release was unlikely if they wanted to shift some physical copies so they had to look to merch, merch has become bigger than ever, and it isn’t unusual to pay £100+ for a tour hoodie…  

Many artists these days are locked into 360 record deals where the label take a cut from merch sales however, in April 2022 The Guardian reported that artists were missing out even more. AGM (one of the biggest venue owners in the UK) take 25% from merch sales at gigs at their venues and Universal Music Group get a portion of that 25%, even if the artist isn’t on the label. It’s like the system has been built to kill creativity!

Since lockdowns ended artists have barely stopped touring, and ticket prices are on the up. When we are talking about artists, we are talking about the established ones, who can sell at least a few thousand tickets in each city they stop in, and the major stars who can sell out stadiums a few times in each city they stop it. On average, attendees who went to see Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour spent £800 on one show (ticket, travel, accommodation, food, drink, outfits, merch, oh, and never forget about the friendship bracelets). When we are living in the ‘cost of living’ crisis era, is there any money left over to support new artists? In the 2000’s the small bands might have lost money on music piracy but they could go on tour, play in front of a few hundred people each night and sell a few t-shirts (tickets for a tenner, t-shirts for a tenner, pints for three quid, what a time). 

Even if small artists can sell a few hundred tickets, where can they play when venues are disappearing?

In London there was 430 music venues in 2007 but 2015 there was just 245, more are continuing to close faster than new ones opening. Unfortunately, it hasn’t just been London losing its nightlife, the trend was visible throughout the country. How many venues from the 2000’s still exist? Without small independent venues there’s nowhere for the ‘next big thing’ to develop. 

In the 2000’s there were loads of small venues in every town and city, regularly putting on gigs that not only supports the current music scene but also the future. Kids need to be able to see there is a realistic opportunity to be on a stage, to be inspired to form a band. 

As there were so many bands around who would tour the UK a few times a year they couldn’t just do the big cities so they would be stopping off in every town from Hull to Inverness, Southampton and Norwich and unlike the big cities, these towns were full of kids with a thirst for something to do and often became the best crowds of the tour, loyal fanbases, communities were formed because of these gigs. 

Music venues generally exist in city centres, where the ground they are built on is a valuable asset, business people see £££ over art and creativity. There are also more restrictions in place such as the volume of noise (housing developers aren’t soundproofing homes properly), making it more difficult to put on gigs while business rates make it less cost-effective. Government funding across the arts has always been questionable, particularly in the north of England.

James O’Hara “Putting on live music is prohibitively expensive, a sure-fire way to lose a lot of money, it's thankless and selling tickets in Sheffield is like pulling teeth. I hugely admire people who do it but it's not something for me anymore that's for sure. The highs are the gigs themselves, seeing people reacting to music, happiness, tears, dancing, singing. The lows? pretty much everything else hahah. 

Small, independent venues are hugely important, they take all the risk, they find and source all the new artists and then get very little in return.” 

Gemma Clarke “I think there is still a thirst for live music, just a smaller thirst than it was before. People can access music online so they will only go to see bands they know. It makes it harder for smaller bands to be seen and heard but everything changes and bands are using social media now to be seen and heard. I remain old school in that I just want to play, and I want to see bands play. I love social media and Spotify etc but I will always go support the smaller bands first.” 

In 2014 the Music Venue Trust, an independent charity was formed by Mark Davyd, starting as a small concept that has grown over the years. Its fundamental goal is to protect, secure and improve Grassroots Music Venues.   

Mark, a co-owner of The Forum in Tunbridge Wells, a live music venue that has been converted from a public toilet. The venue wasn’t really making much money so it would be hard for the 4 owners to sell on when they are ready to retire, and for it to continue as a music venue. In 2015 the value of The Forum as a music venue was £375,000, if it had been knocked down and turned into flats it would have a huge price tag of £1.2 million.  

The Music Venue Trust was created to safeguard the future of grassroots spaces after iconic venues had been lost to redevelopment or a change of purpose for profit. Independently run, grassroots music venues are a breeding ground for creativity, it’s where new bands form and learn to perform to an audience, not only that but it’s an affordable opportunity to watch live music and a space that inspires others to pick up an instrument. If Milburn hadn’t played The Boardwalk (closed since 2010) in Sheffied, their mates wouldn’t have seen them and thought “We can do that”, and formed the Arctic Monkeys.  

MVT do more than just showcase the venues and support their future, they also seek to improve the experience for both the artists and audiences who attend these spaces (let’s be honest, it’s great to be punk and DIY but it’s also nice for toilets that have a door…). Many grassroots venue owners are only leaseholders which means that they don’t own the land, the future of the building lays in the hand of the freeholder who could be easily swayed by money to sell it on. A long-term goal for the MVT is to acquire the freeholds of as many of the venues as possible.  

A year after the Music Venue Alliance was created, over 900 grassroots music venues were represented by the Music Venue Trust, supporting them in various capacities, from advice to campaigns. 

James O’Hara “The Music Venue Trust do great work but I think something hugely fundamental needs to change, perhaps venues being given protected status, maybe a tax on the big venues like The 02, something that trickles back down. Venues that are ostensibly businesses still being allowed to apply for arts council funding etc...” 

NEXT CHAPTER

[trendynewsnow]

UK Government Proposes Voluntary Ticket Levy to Support Grassroots Music Venues

UK Government to Introduce Voluntary Ticket Levy for Grassroots Music Venues The UK government is poised to implement a voluntary levy on tickets for concerts held in large stadiums and arenas. This initiative aims to generate much-needed funds for smaller music venues that have faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly following the pandemic and the impact of rising…

[dreamings-free]

23/4/24 The Music Venue Trust has hit back at Manchester’s Co-Op Live for saying some grassroots venues are “poorly run” – despite having had to delay its own opening this week.

Co-Op Live, which cost £365million, is set to become the UK’s largest indoor arena when it opens, with a capacity of 23,500.

The venue’s executive director Gary Roden spoke to the BBC recently, where he discussed the proposed £1 ticket levy on all gigs arena-sized and above, to help secure the future of grassroots venues and artists.

Roden said that he was “very aware it’s a hot topic”, and that he was “embracing the conversation”, but that he believed the levy was “too simplistic”.

The report suggests that he thinks support should come directly from the government, and added that while he acknowledges the financial pressures on small venues, he thinks some of them are poorly run.

-> full article here at nme.com

Music Venue Trust CEO Mark Davyd on twitter 20/4/24 :

linking to this article:

20/4/24 Bosses of the UK's largest arena have apologised for cancelling tickets to a test show hours before it was due to start.

It comes after organisers at Co-op Live in Manchester said they had to cut capacity for a preview concert by Rick Astley to allow them to test the 23,500-seater venue "effectively".

Those affected have instead been invited to the Black Keys show at the £365m arena next week.

Co-op Live is set to be officially opened by comedian Peter Kay on Tuesday.

-> full article here at bbc.com

and then the day before the official opening night..

22/4/24 Organisers at Manchester’s new Co-Op Live arena have postponed their opening Peter Kay shows.

[..]

A statement from the venue said: “Following our first test event on Saturday, regretfully we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our two opening performances by Peter Kay. It is critical to ensure we have a consistent total power supply to our fully electric sustainable venue, the completion of which is a few days behind.

-> full article here at nme.com

[belwoodmusic]

Why Grassroots Gigs Are Live Music At Its Best

Photo by Steve Shipley Every music lover has been there. The buzz of finally seeing your favourite band being amplified ten-thousandfold by an arena full of likeminded fans. A sea of people swept up into a frenzy when the music drops, the lights dim, and a flurry of distant motion in the darkness signifies the start of something special. The lights, the crowd, the scale of it all. The masses…

[cherrygirlystuff]

Grunge Gatherings: Your Guide to Indie Sleaze Socials

Hey babe! 🌸 Ready to throw it back to those epic indie sleaze gatherings that defined a generation? Welcome to Grunge Gatherings, where we’re diving into the social side of the indie sleaze scene. From house parties and underground gigs to DIY events and everything in between, we’ve got all the tips and outfit guides you need to host a gathering that’s straight-up legendary. So grab your friends, crank up the tunes, and let’s get this party started! 🎉🎸

Grunge Gatherings: Bringing the Indie Sleaze Vibe to Your Social Life 🌟

The indie sleaze scene wasn’t just about the music or the fashion—it was about the community, the connections, and the unforgettable nights spent with friends. Whether you’re planning a chill house party, an underground gig, or a spontaneous get-together, nailing the indie sleaze vibe is all about creating a space where everyone feels free to be themselves. Ready to dive in? Let’s break it down!

1. House Parties: The Heart of Indie Sleaze Socials 🎉

House parties were the epitome of indie sleaze culture—intimate, unpretentious, and totally epic. Here’s how to throw a house party that captures the spirit of the era:

DIY Decor: Forget fancy decorations—think more along the lines of DIY. Use old band posters, string lights, and thrift store finds to create a laid-back, eclectic vibe. Throw up some fairy lights, hang up vintage records, and scatter some candles around for a cozy, grungy feel.

Music is Key: Curate a playlist that’s equal parts nostalgic and eclectic. Mix in some classic indie anthems with lesser-known tracks for that perfect indie vibe. If you can, set up a turntable for spinning vinyl—it adds a touch of authenticity and gives your party that extra edge.

Comfort Over Style: Create a space that’s comfortable and inviting. Think bean bags, floor cushions, and cozy blankets. Your friends will appreciate having a place to relax, chat, and soak in the music.

Chill Vibes: Keep the mood relaxed and laid-back. Encourage people to bring their own drinks and snacks to keep things casual. The goal is to create a space where everyone feels at home and can let loose.

Outfit Guide for House Parties:

Grungy Chic: Opt for distressed jeans, oversized band tees, and vintage leather jackets. Comfort is key, so keep your look effortless and cool.

Layer Up: Throw on a flannel shirt over your tee or a beanie to complete your look. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and patterns for that signature indie sleaze style.

2. Underground Gigs: Embracing the DIY Music Scene 🎸

Underground gigs were the heartbeat of the indie sleaze scene—raw, unfiltered, and totally exhilarating. Here’s how to channel that energy into your own DIY music event:

Find the Right Venue: Look for local spots that have that gritty, underground vibe—basements, warehouses, or even your own garage can work. The key is to find a space that feels authentic and intimate.

Lineup and Promotion: Get in touch with up-and-coming bands and solo artists who embody the indie spirit. Use social media, local flyers, and word of mouth to spread the word. The more grassroots your promotion, the more genuine the vibe.

DIY Decor and Setup: Keep it simple but impactful. Use string lights, old concert posters, and DIY signage to create a low-key but lively atmosphere. Set up a small stage area with a makeshift backdrop for added effect.

Food and Drinks: Offer simple refreshments—think snacks, drinks, and maybe a few homemade treats. Keep it casual and easy to manage so you can focus on enjoying the music and the company.

Outfit Guide for Underground Gigs:

Edgy Elegance: Go for something that looks effortlessly cool yet practical. Think skinny jeans, band tees, and sturdy boots. Layer with a denim jacket or a leather vest for added flair.

Statement Accessories: Add some grungy accessories like chunky rings, layered necklaces, and vintage pins. These little details can elevate your look and make you stand out in the crowd.

3. Spontaneous Get-Togethers: Embracing the Impromptu Vibes ✨

Sometimes the best gatherings are the ones that aren’t planned. Embrace those spontaneous moments with these tips:

Easygoing Planning: Keep it simple—whether you’re meeting at a local park, your favorite café, or even just hanging out at someone’s house, make sure the vibe is relaxed and easygoing.

Casual Activities: Think laid-back activities like a DIY craft session, a movie marathon, or just chilling with some good tunes. The goal is to keep things fun and informal.

Flexible Dress Code: Since these get-togethers are more about spontaneity than style, go for an outfit that’s comfy and effortlessly cool. Think relaxed jeans, vintage tees, and your favorite sneakers.

Outfit Guide for Spontaneous Get-Togethers:

Effortless Cool: Throw on a pair of high-waisted jeans, a graphic tee, and some chunky boots. Add a beanie or a bandana for a touch of grunge.

Layer Smartly: Since these gatherings can be casual, layer with a denim jacket or a lightweight sweater for easy changes in weather or mood.

Final Thoughts, Gorgeous: Bringing the Indie Sleaze Vibe to Life 🌟

There you have it, babe—your ultimate guide to hosting and dressing for indie sleaze gatherings! Whether you’re throwing a cozy house party, organizing an underground gig, or just planning a spontaneous hangout, the key is to keep it genuine, relaxed, and full of that signature indie spirit. With the right mix of decor, music, and outfits, you’ll create gatherings that are unforgettable and totally on point.

What’s your go-to for indie sleaze gatherings? Share your tips and stories in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re bringing the grunge glamour to life! 💕

[twopoppies]

Coop Live boss has already jumped ship...

https://www.nme.com/news/music/manchester-co-op-live-arena-boss-resigns-after-rows-controversy-and-venue-problems-3750847

I have to say, my eyes glazed over trying to read that article. I don’t think I fully grasped what he resigned over. And other than the electrical issues, there seems to be some other things going on about grassroots music vs corporate sponsored music, but I honestly can’t really follow it. Since when did Irving Azoff become a champion of grassroots music?

x

[aeolianblues]

well, you know exactly what I’ll be reading this weekend now :)

UK DCMS special committee decides has advised that by law, all concert tickets have a levy that goes straight to growing grassroots music. Small local venues, up and coming artists, DIY promoters and gigs will receive this support. It could make a huge difference, having a safety net under the grassroots music scene.

The idea of levies isn’t new, it’s been discussed before and was in the news lately for having had a variety of responses: on the one hand, Coldplay were voluntarily taking a £1 levy on every ticket they sold in the UK to give back to emerging music, on the other hand the owner of the Co-Op Live, a large arena in Manchester, called grassroots venues ‘poorly run’ and cited that as a reason not to want to fund them, saying their venue didn’t ‘need’ the artists the grassroots were promoting. In 10 years’ time, all your retiree greatest hits bands will slow down, Gary. Who are you going to book then? No UK artist under the age of 30 has played the Co-Op to date.

So you can see why a legally mandated levy becomes a good idea. If the owner of places that sell 23,500 tickets a night can’t agree to a £1 levy, it’s for the best that it be mandated.

Of course, this is still a DCMS finding, and the government needs to make it law, but we’re past September 2024. It has now passed the voluntary trial period. It’s a case, as the Music Venue Trust said earlier, of when and how, not of if.

I’ll be reading the report properly over the weekend. Looking forward to this.

[musicblogwales]

Chroma - 'I Wanna Be Where You Are'

Pontypridd, Wales bi-lingual alt-rock trio CHROMA are pleased to reveal the official video for their new single ‘I Wanna Be Where You Are’ out now via Alcopop! Records. The news comes ahead of a huge support slot with Foo Fighters for the band this week, and they also support Newport comedy hip hop troupe Goldie Lookin Chain on their forthcoming 2024 headline dates later this year, with limited tickets remaining. The track is the latest to be taken from the band’s gigantic Alcopop! Records 2023 debut album Ask For Angela. Commenting on the single, vocalist Katie Hall said: "This song is about limerence. It’s a new word I’ve learnt from the Lalala Let Me Explain podcast. It means to be emotionally and romantically infatuated with someone. It’s like when you have an intense crush on someone who’s not good for you. It’s not necessarily because they're a bad person, it’s because you’re in a bad place so you try to mask your problems with love.  In an age of modern technology, love and dating seems disposable. When I fall into limerence it’s usually because I feel lonely. I think it’s something a lot of people go through. We wanted to write a punk song about turbulent love that people could maybe relate to." The track comes with an official music video directed by Ren Faulkner, with artistic direction from the band's Katie Hall, movement director Bronwen Wilson Rashard, hair and makeup by Yasmine Davies, featuring model Emily Koko, styling by Alaw Griffiths and clothes by Rosie Evans. “One of the coolest things about being in a band is being able to creatively direct your own music video,” says Hall of the challenge. “The idea for ‘I Wanna Be Where You Are’ came from a hinge date I went on in Port Talbot. I’ve always been fascinated by the steel works every time we drove past that area as a kid, and it’s been on my music video bucket list.” “On the date we chatted a lot about the steelworks closing. It’s an estimated 20,000 jobs in the area. It’s hard to think of the pressure this puts families under during a cost of living crisis. I think Port Talbot is lush, the people and the place. The video also features Welsh designer Rosie Evans' clothes. I love Rosie’s work, and it’s been a dream of mine for some time to wear one of her corsets.” Recorded at Giant Wafer Studios, Llanbadarn Fynydd in the heart of Wales, CHROMA’s much lauded debut was produced and mixed by Steffan Pringle (Adwaith, Future of the Left, Boy Azooga) and mastered by Tom Langrish at E1 Mastering (IDLES, Fontaines D.C, DITZ) in London. The band recently presented an episode of S4C’s returning TV series Curadur, with Hall inviting some of her favourite bands and artists to join her Clwb Cysgu Cwl (Sleepover Club). Featuring performances from The Joy Formidable, Panic Shack and of course Chroma, the episode is available on catch-up via BBC iPlayer and S4C Clic. Riding high on a run of packed shows at SXSW Festival, FOCUS Wales, and a support slot with The Mysterines, the band announced their signing to Alcopop! Records in early 2023 and were recently hand-picked to support legendary US rockers Foo Fighters at Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Manchester on 15th June 2024 alongside Courtney Barnett. They also played further shows alongside Bob Vylan and more. The trio have just been announced as one of the latest patrons of the Music Venue Trust, and will support the work of the charity in sharing the importance of Grassroots Music Venues and their crucial role in the music industry's ecosystem. 2024 UK Live Dates:

SOLD OUT - MANCHESTER - Gorilla * SOLD OUT - PRESTON - The Ferret * 19 Sep - NORWICH - Epic Studios * SOLD OUT - NOTTINGHAM - Metronome * 19 Oct - NEWCASTLE - The Cluny * SOLD OUT - GLOUCESTER - Guildhall * 02 Nov - BRISTOL - SW * SOLD OUT - NARBERTH - Queens Hall * SOLD OUT - BIRMINGHAM - Hare & Hounds * 09 Nov - SWANSEA - Sin City * 16 Nov - LONDON - Electric Ballroom * SOLD OUT - BIRKENHEAD - Future Yard * SOLD OUT - NEWPORT - Corn Exchange * SOLD OUT - NEWPORT - Corn Exchange * * w/ Goldie Lookin Chain

[ocean-sailor]

Coldplay - WE PRAY (TINI Version) (Official)

“Stream / download here: https://coldplay.lnk.to/WEPRAYTINI 

WE PRAY is taken from Coldplay's tenth studio album Moon Music landing October 4, available to pre-order here: https://coldplay.lnk.to/MoonMusic 🌙 

Filmed on 28 August, 2024 at Grafton Street, Dublin🇮🇪. Thanks to everyone who showed up, and to TikTok for helping to make it happen. “

Coldplay💙 featuring:

TINI x ,  BURNA BOY x , LITTLE SIMZ x , and ELYANNA x

“The band have just announced August 2025 shows at London’s Wembley Stadium and Hull’s Craven Park Stadium. These are the only UK/European cities where they will perform next year.  (They have also) announced Music Of The Spheres World Tour shows for Abu Dhabi, Mumbai, Seoul and Hong Kong in 2025. 

10% of the band’s proceeds from the Wembley and Hull shows will be donated to Music Venue Trust, to help fund their vital work supporting grassroots UK venues and upcoming artists.

In a world first for a stadium show, the band have also pledged to power the Wembley concerts’ production with 100% solar, wind and kinetic energy.🌲❤️

A limited number of Infinity Tickets, priced at £20 per ticket, will be made available for the shows via Ticketmaster at 12pm GMT on Friday, November 22.

Fifty percent of the tickets for the Hull shows – the band’s first ever concerts in the city – will go to local fans (with HU, YO, DN or LN postcodes), via Ticketmaster on Thursday, September 26 at 6pm BST.”

All tour info is on the Coldplay website here 💙 

(bold and extra emojis mine ;)

[blueberry-beanie]

Our patron Jeremy Pritchard from @e_e_ speaks about access to Grassroots Music Venues within your local community. Join us at Venues Day 2023 on 17 October - a day full of networking and celebrating the GMV community. Tickets are now available for our MVA members - general tickets on sale soon, watch this space!

Jeremy for Music Venue Trust | 26th August 2023

[louisupdates]

Louis Tomlinson to provide stage for up-and-coming Australian bands

WORDS BY STAFF WRITER

The international star is offering a chance for local acts to shine.

Louis Tomlinson, the renowned singer and songwriter, is setting the stage for emerging talent to shine on his upcoming Australian tour, Faith In The Future World Tour.

In a remarkable move, Tomlinson is opening up opportunities for three up-and-coming bands to join his tour as supporting acts at key Australian venues. This exciting initiative promises to inject fresh energy into the shows as it makes its way through Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney early next year.

Louis Tomlinson Australian tour dates:

Sunday, January 28, 2024: Melbourne – Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Tuesday, January 30, 2024: Brisbane – Riverstage

Friday, February 2, 2024: Sydney – Qudos Bank Arena

Louis Tomlinson’s commitment to nurturing grassroots music is no secret. On many occasions, he has extended invitations to promising bands to join his tours, offering them the chance to showcase their talent to his international fanbase. He’s taken this ethos a step further with the Faith In The Future Australian tour, a reflection of his continued dedication to the music scene.

The three selected local support acts will have the incredible opportunity to open for Louis at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, Brisbane’s Riverstage, and Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena. For aspiring musicians, this is an invaluable chance to perform in front of diverse audiences, gaining valuable experience and exposure.

To apply for the opportunity, aspiring bands can head to the official application portal. The selection promises to be highly competitive, but the prospect of sharing the stage with an international superstar like Louis Tomlinson is bound to inspire local talent.

Louis Tomlinson’s return to Australia will be a cause for celebration among his fervent fanbase. His recent chart-topping second solo album, Faith In The Future, is brimming with songs crafted for the live stage. He expressed his enthusiasm about returning to Australia, a place he’s always held close to his heart. Tomlinson remarked, “Australia is somewhere I’ve always loved and really enjoyed visiting. I have some incredible tour memories there, and I can’t wait to return and bring the Faith In the Future tour to Australia.”

Adding to this excitement, earlier this year, Louis Tomlinson unveiled an emotive documentary film titled All Of Those Voices. The film, screened in cinemas worldwide for a limited time, offered an authentic and candid look at Tomlinson’s remarkable musical journey. Through never-before-seen home movie footage and behind-the-scenes access to his sell-out 2022 World Tour, fans gained fresh insights into the artist’s life and career.

Get tickets to the show here.

[mistlekissy]

something very funny about the co-op live arena dissing grassroots venues as poorly run and offering them training instead of money only for the arena having to cancel tickets for its test show and postpone its first two opening shows💀

it's giving jefe reposting that "if the music industry was responsible for covid vaccines" post lmao

[seoulmetromusic]

Hello world...

So I guess I'm here because I wish it was still 2014, or something? Certainly I miss the way music was in the late 2000s and 2010s, and how we used to interact with it. The way that bands like The 1975 and Foals and Death Cab and Radiohead and and and... would build these real, tangible worlds with actual full-length albums and amazing self-referential lyrics and incredible, beautiful imagery. The energy of live shows in small, sweaty venues. The heady black-and-white romanticism of it all. The mystique.

As far as I can tell, much of that has been lost in a perpetually looping tidal wave of 15-second dopamine hits. This is the new reality for small and mid-size artists; the old world-building way seems now to be the preserve of established artists with significant financial support. As a creative person, I find the whole thing overwhelming. So I create my music, quietly release it, and don't really engage with "promotion" in the new grassroots sense; it's simply too much for my tiny mind to deal with.

All of this is to say, I've come back to Tumblr to create a repository for my work, in the hope that people who are still here remember the old times just like me, and maybe want something new that follows the same philosophy. Is there anybody out there?

[dreamings-free]

so on Monday..

NME 29/4/24 The owners of Manchester’s Co-Op Live are planning to build “the greatest arena in the world” in London.

US entrepreneur Tim Leiweke, the CEO of sports and live entertainment development company Oak View Group – who is behind the Co-Op Live – has outlined plans for a new music venue in the capital. -> full article on nme.com

lol good point

then Wednesday, two days later..

NME 1/5/24 Manchester’s new arena Co-Op Live was forced to cancel a performance by rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie last minute due to a “venue-related technical issue”.

The venue announced just 10 minutes after doors had opened that the show could no longer go ahead due to technical problems. “We kindly ask fans to leave the area. Ticket holders will receive further information in due course,” they said.

-> full article on nme.com

later that same day..

NME 1/5/24 The gigs were postponed following a technical issue that caused A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie's show tonight to be pulled just 10 minutes after doors

[excerpt] A spokesperson for the venue told Manchester Evening News that the technical issue was caused by part of an air conditioning unit falling from the gantry inside the venue during soundcheck. Nobody was injured.

-> full article on nme.com

well, at least there's this new development.. (to make themselves look better :)

NME 1/5/24 The venue initially declined the levy, which would go towards supporting and developing the UK's grassroots venues.

Manchester’s Co-Op Live has agreed to meet with the Music Venue Trust to discuss a £1 ticket levy.

According to the BBC, Mark Davyd (CEO of the Music Venue Trust) said he was to meet with the Co-Op Live once the venue was up and running. The meeting comes amongst the furore with Co-Op Live’s executive director Gary Roden, who suggested some grassroots venues were “poorly run” whilst discussing the case for a £1 ticket levy to preserve them.

-> full article on nme.com

tbc I feel...

[letsgetsquiggly]

Dandy Boy

Written for @flashfictionfridayofficial 243rd prompt.

Word count: 538

Audience: General

Themes: musical performances, emotional responses, slice of life

Descending the stairs, I approach the disco pop hell hole that has imprisoned my attention this last week. Such posh places were usually beneath me. I am much too old for curated vibrancy that only attracts young, flighty patrons with fleeting attention. This particular pocket of technicolor hell held an anomaly, however. A vast soul caged in a vapid gig.

I breathe in a deep puff of cotton candy cloud and snort the exhale at the no vaping sign that nobody follows at the bottom of the stairwell. I place my hand on the gaudiest velvet-clad door and push into the offensively neon venue. As an old woman, I trail an aura of grey through the pastel energies of today's youth gathered in this snug club. I don't belong, and I don't care. All I care about is that, in this unexpected place, is where the music happens. Not this spliced and sliced chords and bars pieced together by software and black boxes that I had grown accustomed to in the slog of shows I must sit through daily, but actual, grassroots composition born from tube amps, strings, and profound sadness. Pushing against the collection of confused stares, I make my presence known at the 10-seat wood top tucked in the back of this flashing sign and velvet box. I order what I've ordered the last four days I've been here; a Manhattan is burning, which, while cleverly named, was all flare and no flavor. I found myself at my corner booth, where I just sipped and waited.

It was mere moments before the object of my obsessions stumbles onto the cramped corner stage. A shy swallow who chirps an enchanting melancholic melody. He was a dandy dime, all glitter and blues. He has big, slick black hair and dark skin, a beautiful contrast to his foil-textured white fitted suit top sporting a deep v and a thoughtful gaze that never leaves his lifted-heeled boots. His Epiphone 8 string, a shimmering baby blue, plugged into a burnt orange tube amplifier. He drips with a brilliant shyness and sorrow, dressed in an awkward guise of confident colors and attire. I hold my breath while waiting for his set reveal, ready to be infected with his unexpected sparkle.

And then, he sings. He strums. The warm reverb of the transistor tubes worms through the pastel plain and hits my grey. He fills the room and turns it bold. Turns it blue. His performance erases the neon, coats the velvet, and masks the humanity of the room. All is him, and he is all. A deep baritone voice, crass and uneven, solid and vibrant, blends with the strings' vibration. His music is home, love, heartbreak, and loss. His music holds life and tells of change. This utter stranger has given me things I never knew I needed and showed me there is life I am missing to live.

At the end of the set, I release myself from my viewing station and approach the stage, money in my hand to show proper appreciation for the once again visceral performance. Throwing the cash into the open guitar case, I address the only thing in the room with soul.

"Excellent work, Dandy Boy."

[newmusickarl]

Best Live Shows of 2023

In the age of streaming and with ever-mounting logistical cost pressures, it is more important than ever to go support the bands you love by catching their live show and, if you can, pick up a record or some merchandise whilst you’re there.

Of course, the price of live music itself for the average fan is going up too, with £100+ tickets for stadium/arena shows and £40+ tickets for academy shows, quickly becoming the norm. That said, if you look beyond the household names selling through Ticketmaster’s exploitive dynamic pricing system, you can still find plenty of great acts playing live shows for £10-£20. So, if you find yourself constantly being priced out of the large stadium shows, why not spend that money on five grassroots shows instead – you may just find your next favourite artist in the process!

As for myself, I live for live music and by avoiding those top tier tickets and focussing on cost-effective festivals and shows with great line-ups, I’ve packed in more live music in 2023 than I ever have in my life. Including festival performances and warm-up acts, I’m grateful to have caught 127 performances in 2023, hopefully helping in some small way to support the artists and up-and-coming acts I adore.

With that mass of live music, it’s been hard to whittle this down to just my 10 favourites. So, in true New Music Weekly fashion of avoiding difficult decisions and leaving stuff out, firstly here’s the honourable mentions in chronological order:

Honourable mentions:

Foals at Engine Rooms, Southampton, May

Simply one of my all-time favourite bands at the peak of their powers, in the smallest venue I’ve ever seen them play (800 cap). Biblical!

Opus Kink at Dot-to-Dot Festival, Nottingham, May

The annual “get-me-in-that-pit” performance at Dot-to-Dot festival, proving I’m not too old yet for at least one moshing session per annum. Just like Bob Vylan the year before, my friendship group approached the ska-punk outfit with trepidation, but all ended up fans by the end of the set.

Mickey Callisto at Dot-to-Dot Festival, Nottingham, May

Imagine Freddie Mercury’s Live Aid performance, but in a tiny loft venue – that is essentially what synth-pop superstar Mickey Callisto delivered at Dot-to-Dot festival this year. Next level showmanship and an electric end to the day’s proceedings.

Swim Deep at Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, June

The Brummie indie darlings celebrated 10 years of Where The Heaven Are We this summer, performing one of my all-time favourite albums in full. They also played the ever-magnificent King City twice in the career-spanning set!

Young Fathers at Best Kept Secret Festival, Beekse Bergen, June

The band that have defined 2023 for me, it seemed like much of the audience in the tent with me at Best Kept Secret were catching the Scottish trio for the first time and weren’t sure what to expect. The result was a truly mind-blowing performance, with the energy from the stage radiating around the tent to the point of elation and thunderous applause by the end of the set.

Watch Young Fathers at Best Kept Secret 2023 here

The War On Drugs at The Piece Hall, Halifax, June

American rockers The War On Drugs performing anywhere would probably be enough to get a mention here, such is their stature as a live force. However, with support from Warpaint, a euphoric rendition of Under The Pressure and the gig itself taking place in the beautiful surroundings of the Grade I Listed Piece Hall, outdoor summer shows don’t get much better.

Confidence Man at Splendour Festival, Nottingham, July

When you need a lift during a washed-out festival, get Confidence Man to save the day. Having waited a long time to see them perform live, the Aussie dance outfit didn’t disappoint as the sun cleared just in time for their dazzling half hour of power. Immaculate choreography and joyous vibes aplenty!

Walt Disco at Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, September

A special shout-out to Walt Disco, who supported Nation of Language at their Rescue Rooms show in September. They are my pick for the best warm-up act of the year, with their David Bowie-inspired dramatics and glam rock chic leaving me eager to catch them again in the future.

Read the full review for both Walt Disco and Nation of Language here

Don Broco at O2 Academy Leicester, Leicester, December

Genre-bending heroes Don Broco are one of the most fun live acts around and even with a neck brace leaving frontman Rob Damiani more restricted than usual, they still blew the roof off. Usually not a fan of O2 Academy venues, this was also one of the better ones I’ve visited and it all just made for a great Saturday night.

Jadu Heart at JT Soar, Nottingham, December

My final show of 2023 and easily one of the most magical of the year. Performing in JT Soar which is an old garage turned Sleaford Mods’ recording studio, electro-folk outfit Jadu Heart brought string-tinged beauty and festive spirit to the intimate space. With only around 30 people in attendance and the bargain price of just £5 for the ticket, it was capped off with a pair of singalongs to Christmas classics Happy Xmas (War Is Over) and Fairytale of New York.

Read the full review for LeftLion here

That’s the honourable mentions then, now onto the main event – out of the 120+ performances I’ve seen in 2023, these are the ten that ended up leaving the biggest impression.

Top 10 Live Shows of 2023

10. The 1975 at Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham, January

One of the most discussed arena tours of the year, The 1975 kicked 2023 off with a spectacle. Split into two parts, the first half covered their latest album, Being Funny In A Foreign Language, and then the second half was just wall-to-wall greatest hits with 10,000 people losing their minds. Add in some unique staging and some surreal, theatrical interludes, it made for one of the most memorable arena gigs of the year. In fact it was so good, we’ve already booked to see The 1975 Still At Their Very Best in 2024, this time over in Brussels.

If you’re intrigued to see the show for yourself, their Madison Square Garden performance is streaming on YouTube and Amazon – check it out below.

Watch it here

Stream the live album here

9. The Lottery Winners at Rock City, Nottingham, November

Sometimes the best gigs are the ones that come along and surprise you. With support act Deco a favourite in our household and having seen indie-pop outfit Lottery Winners once previously at 110 Above festival, this one was booked purely on the basis that it looked like a fun Saturday night. Add in up-and-coming Notts rockers The Publics, you’ve got three quality bands at Rock City for £18. However, what I didn’t expect, was this show to be as life-affirming as it ended up being.

For context, once upon a time Lottery Winners were due to support Embrace at Rock City only to be dropped when Embrace feared The Lottery Winners would receive a bigger reception than them. So finally getting the opportunity to play the iconic stage where legends such as David Bowie and Nirvana have played before, you could see The Lottery Winners were putting everything into the performance. The fact I didn’t really know a single song of The Lottery Winners didn’t matter at all either. With plenty of laugh-out-loud, inter-song banter, some thunderous crowd singalongs and the band themselves in genuine tears at certain points in the set, it was just an incredible, emotionally uplifting night.

8. ROB GREEN at Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, February / ROB GREEN at Hockley Hustle Festival, Nottingham, October

Yes, I’m cheating again! But twice I saw Notts’ soul/pop artist ROB GREEN in 2023 and both were magical in their own unique way - so it was impossible to separate them.

Back at Hockley Hustle festival in October 2022, I saw Rob play an acoustic set that just completely blew me away. Having heard only positive things about him up until that point but not knowing too much about his music beyond that, it was one of those performances where I went in with not too much expectation of what I was going to hear, and then left just in complete awe of what I had just experienced. It was a borderline spiritual experience at times, with Rob’s mix of spoken word poetry and gospel-inspired singalongs just captivating and immensely uplifting.

So fast forward to February this year and I finally got to see Rob perform with a full live band setup. However, thanks to the utter jubilance from the crowd, his impressive backing vocalists and immensely talented band, it just amplified that feeling from Hockley Hustle 2022 tenfold. With my whole immediate family in attendance with me too to celebrate my mum’s birthday, it made it even more special.

Fast forward again to Hockley Hustle 2023 and Rob somehow managed to top his 2022 performance by pulling in a string quartet to perform alongside him. Here’s what I said in my review for LeftLion:

“Performing in the corner of Broadway Cinema’s café with the Rob Rosa String Quartet accompanying him, people are literally queueing at the door to catch even the smallest glimpse of his incredible thirty-minute set. And rightfully so, as the enigmatic performer has this unrivalled ability to bring immeasurable positive energy to a room and leave the audience sitting on Cloud Nine. Storming through performances of early singles Life Goes on and Sleeping on My Own, Rob gets noticeably emotional when the crowd singalong with recent single from his forthcoming EP, I’ll Be Around. “It’s so good to be back in NG1,” he exclaims, with the Nottingham faithful grateful to have him back. He then ends as he always does with a joyously euphoric medley of classic covers, leaving the crowd in Broadway Cinema fully uplifted and proving once again why he’s the best live performer in Nottingham.”

Read the full LeftLion roundup of Hockley Hustle 2023 here

7. Spector at Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, December

A band that have defined the last 10 years of my life but most definitely the last two months of my 2023, Spector delivered one of the best albums of their career to date in November with Here Come The Early Nights. Eager to hear the new songs from that record live, I headed down to Rescue Rooms to catch them for the third time in that venue, for the sixth time in Nottingham and for the tenth time in total! With fierce competition from their past selves, Spector pulled out all the stops and delivered a rip-roaring set that packed in so many anthems, I lost my voice completely from all the singing along.

Of course, it may be recency bias but for me this was right up there as one of the best performances I’ve seen from them over the years. It just further cemented why they are one of my favourite bands and also one of the best bands to see perform live. If you want all the details from the night, you can read my review for LeftLion below.

Read the full review for LeftLion here

6. The Chemical Brothers at First Direct Arena, Leeds, October

The legendary Chemical Brothers were another band that I saw live twice in 2023, however as fantastic as they were at Best Kept Festival over the summer, their own arena show in October was just the next level up.

If you’ve not had the pleasure of seeing Ed Simons and Tom Rowlands before, let me assure you they put on one of the best live shows on the planet, especially in an arena setting. The hypnotic, mind-melting visuals they put together to accompany their set is just like no other, in addition to all the big production tricks like confetti, lasers, giant balloons and even massive robots too.

However, all of that will only get you so far, you still need the bangers to back it up. Thankfully with a career-spanning 30+ years they have them in abundance and their setlist in Leeds was near faultless. A lot of cuts from their 2023 album For That Beautiful Feeling were included with Goodbye in particular standing out, as well as all the classics you’d want to hear such as Galvanize, Go, Hey Boy Hey Girl and Block Rockin’ Beats. They even had space for one of my all-time favourite songs, Wide Open. Probably the best show from them of the five times I’ve seen them and easily one of my favourite arena gigs of the year.

5. Oscar and the Wolf at Best Kept Secret Festival, Beekse Bergen, June

When you travel to another country and spend hundreds of pounds on a festival for one particular artist, it’s important they deliver. Sure, Best Kept Secret had a phenomenal line-up this year that also boasted The Chemical Brothers, The 1975, Aphex Twin, Young Fathers, Caroline Polachek, Christine & The Queens, Nation of Language, Arlo Parks, Billy Nomates, Interpol and so many more, so I would have gotten the value anyway. But Best Kept Secret Festival was really all about seeing one man – Max Colombie AKA Oscar and the Wolf.

You see having discovered Oscar and the Wolf at Dot-to-Dot festival in 2015, his music instantly resonated with me and he quickly became a favourite of mine. The issue is the Belgian indie-pop superstar isn’t really known here in the UK. So, whenever I have been able to see him live over the years since, it’s been in quiet festival slots with short sets and a small crowd who aren’t familiar with his output. So, when choosing a festival to attend in 2023, we chose Best Kept Secret for one key reason – Oscar and the Wolf was headlining it.

You see whilst the UK hasn’t caught on to Max Colombie’s talents, over in Europe he is a headline act on the level Muse, Liam Gallagher, Arctic Monkeys, etc. So having decided on Best Kept Secret over Rock Werchter as it looked less commercial and a much more manageable capacity, we ventured to the Netherlands to catch Oscar and the Wolf live with a crowd of 20,000 and, importantly, one which knew the words to all of his songs.

And with that massive expectation on it, Max and his band still managed to exceed all expectations to deliver a dazzling Saturday evening performance. Full of brain-melting guitar solos, a flawless setlist, Max’s own incredible vocals and all the big production tricks, it was everything I hoped for when booking the festival. To finally see one of my favourite artists with a crowd deserving of his music, it was such a special moment.

If you’re intrigued to see more and want an introduction to Max’s output, you can watch a 30-minute snippet of his performance from Best Kept Secret below.

Watch Oscar and the Wolf at Best Kept Secret here

4. Stevie Nicks at T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, March

It is very rare I get to tick off two bucket list items, let alone two in a single week. But earlier this year, I was fortunate enough to travel over to Las Vegas for work, a place I had always wanted to visit. Whilst I didn’t get to see everything in the short time I was there, I did have enough free time to get a flavour of the one-of-a-kind city. Of course, seeing a show is a must out there and when looking at what was on, I noticed that none other than music legend Stevie Nicks was in town for one night only. Biting the bullet on a last-minute ticket, whilst I will never get to see Fleetwood Mac perform live, I was fortunate to catch Stevie that night – which feels like the next best thing.

The production of the stage was utterly entrancing, with montages and artistic visuals projected on the screens behind her throughout. Her voice sounded as good as ever even at 74 too, with the live band playing alongside her also fantastic. Playing through all the classics from both her solo career and time in Fleetwood Mac, it made for a really special show. It also ended on quite an emotional note, as Stevie paid tribute to both Tom Petty and Christine McVie in the encore. Performing Free Falling and Landslide to round it off, she was noticeably moved following her performance of the latter.

I feel incredibly lucky to have had the chance to experience that, seeing a genuine musical legend on the opposite side of the world. One of the defining highlights of my 2023 and a moment I truly will never forget.

3. Self Esteem at Eventim Apollo, London, March

These days, the performance happening on stage is only 50% of what makes a good show. If you get the wrong crowd of people more interested in getting pissed or talking through the set, then you can quickly end up distracted during key moments. But for the final stop on Self Esteem’s Prioritise Pleasure UKtour at the Hammersmith Apollo, the entire audience were there for one thing and one thing only – a performance from Rebecca Lucy Taylor.

Off the back of a huge breakout year following the success of Prioritise Pleasure, this one felt like a victory lap as the crowd erupted into thunderous ovation after every single song. The production of the show itself was incredible too, from the dazzling choreography and vocal performances to the impressive costume changes and staging. It felt like an arena-level pop show but with the intimacy of an academy venue, just the best of both worlds.

The biggest testament I can give it though is what I touched on at the start. A lot of shows I’ve been to post-COVID, when it comes time for the acoustic songs they are sadly often spoilt now by crowd chatter, with people’s loud conversations disrupting these intimate moments. That didn’t happen with Self Esteem, as at one point she took centre stage just her and a guitar to perform her track John Elton and honestly you couldn’t hear a pin drop. Instead, everyone just stood in awe and respectfully engaged with what they were witnessing on the stage.

I said back in March this was one of the best shows I’ve ever had the privilege of seeing and I think I stand by that. An unbelievably special night thanks to a respectful crowd and an artist right at the top of their game.

2. Creeper at Rock City, Nottingham, November

Speaking of one of the best shows I’ve ever seen, I think it’s well documented at this point just how blown away I was seeing Creeper at Rock City last month. The only other time I had seen the Southampton-hailing goth-rockers previously was years ago at Slam Dunk festival and I’ll be honest, their show didn’t leave much of an impression on me at that time. However, with this performance coming less than a month since the release of their operatic third album Sanguivore, which I had been playing constantly, it seemed like the perfect storm for a special night – and my assumptions were correct.

Here's what I said in my review for LeftLion:

“Bringing with them a uniquely theatrical live show unlike any I saw in 2023, it was full of dramatic production, crowd surfers, circle pits, plenty of monstrous riffs and a faultless setlist. The moment of the night however came in the form of a stunning rendition of debut album favourite, Misery. Driving home the special connection Creeper have with their fans, phone torches were switched on and several audience members climbed onto shoulders to emotionally sing along with frontman, Will Gould. As the song reached its peak, Will didn’t even have to say a word or move a muscle - the crowd just instinctively belted out the song’s gut-punching refrain. A beautifully powerful moment and one of the most spine-tingling I’ve ever experienced inside that venue. With red confetti then shooting out of cannons onstage during the triumphant closing performance of 2023 single Cry To Heaven, it was a suitably mind-blowing finish to a truly mind-blowing rock show.”

See LeftLion’s full list of Best Gigs of 2023 here

Read my LeftLion review for Creeper at Rock City here

1. James at Northern Echo Arena, Darlington, August / James at Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, October

So here we are at my favourite live show of 2023 and guess what – I’ve cheated again. Here we have two shows that both had the recipe for an all-timer - one of my favourite bands of all-time, one of the best live acts in the country and a band with 40+ years of exceptional music in their catalogue. Funnily enough, all three of those ingredients are Mancunian indie legends, James.

I saw James twice in 2023 and what has landed them in the top spot is the fact that each time I saw them this year, they delivered a unique experience. Each of these gigs, one in Darlington and one in Nottingham, offered something completely different from the other but ended up equally as sensational for their own reasons.

The first in Darlington was just the perfect line up in the most perfect setting. An August summer’s day with three of my favourite bands on the bill together – Maximo Park, Editors and James. The venue was a decent-sized Rugby stadium, but rather than having the whole thing open, the stage was to one side of the pitch, with one side of seating open and then the pitch the standing area – so it was set up more like a bowl than an open stadium.

What worked perfectly was the fact that although we had booked seats, we didn’t have to stay in them all day. We could sit in the seats and chill for the support, make use of the toilets and quieter bars etc. but then when we wanted to go have a dance and get into the mix, we could walk down onto the pitch and join the standing crowd. This is the first gig I’ve been to with that set up and it just added to the whole experience.

In terms of the bands themselves though, it was just a fantastic day of music. Even before the trio of Maximo Park, Editors and James, you had shoegazers Pale Blue Eyes, up-and-comers The Kairos and 00s indie outfit The Pigeon Detectives, who in particular were much better than I expected. Then as fantastic as Maximo Park and Editors were, it really was all about James who just reaffirmed to me why they’re one of my favourite bands. Ploughing through the hits as the sun was setting, Tim Booth wandering gracefully through the crowd and the band on stage sounding so effortlessly tight-knit, just like a band who have been playing together for 40 years should sound. It may have been the booze, it may have been the life-defining songs, it may well have been a bit of both – but I’m not ashamed to say I was near tears at a couple of points. Just magical.

If that wasn’t enough, I would see them again a few months later at Nottingham Royal Concert Hall, this time backed by a full choir and orchestra. Having had the devastation of the cancellation back in April, after waiting over a decade for them to repeat their 2011 orchestral tour, this was a rescheduled show I had been waiting a long, long time to see. And boy was it worth the wait.

Playing some of my favourite deep cuts that I would never get to hear in a normal set like Space, Alaskan Pipeline, Ten Below and Someone’s Got It In For Me, but then with the strings and extra voices accompanying them too, it just amplified their already world class live show to another level. With goosebump-inducing singalongs to Many Faces and Sometimes also throughout the night, this was another special gig that I’ll remember for a long time.

So there you have it, my favourite shows of 2023. Just one final part of my New Music Weekly awards still left to come and it’s a big one – my Top 100 Songs of 2023 playlist.

It’ll be dropping soon so keep your eyes peeled and thanks for following along so far!