Live At Leeds in the city - 16th nov 24

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Review and photos - Lewis Wolstenholme

Last year I was lucky enough to attend Live at Leeds: In the City, where I got to see acts that have since achieved great success, such as The Last Dinner Party who played Glastonbury after their set in Leeds and Wunderhorse who are about to set off on a tour supporting Sam Fender. And now, in what feels like no time at all, it’s that time of the year again! Across 14 venues and with over 100 different artists, the festival showcased a huge variety of music spanning nearly every genre you could think of.

This year’s headliners were Everything Everything, Leeds’s very own Mercury Prize winners English Teacher, and The K’s, who all delivered incredible performances.

I started my day at Headrow House, watching upcoming artist Ben Ellis, an indie pop musician performing an intimate acoustic set of original songs, plus a brilliant cover of "Hopelessly Devoted to You" from Grease. Next, I headed to Leeds Beckett Student Union for Marika Hackman, whose perfect harmonies and alt-indie set were mesmerizing. A strong highlight of the day was English Teacher’s set. Leeds Beckett was packed to capacity, and it was clearly a warm homecoming for the band. They played a great mix of songs, including my personal favourite, "Nearly Daffodils."

I usually find navigating festivals a bit chaotic, but Live at Leeds once again provided a brilliant setup. The venues were close to each other, and the lineup cleverly grouped artists of similar genres, making it possible for me to see 8 of the 9 acts I had initially planned to catch.

One final set that surprised me, and turned out to be my favourite of the day, was Esme Emerson. A brother-sister duo about to set off on a headline tour across the UK. They played a set of original acoustic songs at the BBC Introducing stage at Oporto. With great on-stage energy, great atmosphere, a brilliant sound tech and an outstanding performance, those 30 minutes were flawless. For an idea of their sound, check out their song "Fade Out."

One thing this festival offers again and again is a space for music lovers to discover their new favourite artists. The Live at Leeds organisers have once again smashed it, curating an incredible lineup that has had me diving into new music all week while editing and writing this review. 

I highly recommend attending this festival next year, but be aware: the venues, especially in the evening, can reach capacity quickly and I wouldn’t want anyone missing out on music queuing outside! From a brilliant showcase of Leeds and its venues to the great artists this year presented, Live at Leeds In the City was a perfect showcase of everything there was to offer!

Here's to next year!

Review & Photos - Neil Milner

This was a plum assignment for me. Being asked to review King Creosote (aka Kenny Anderson) performing 2023’s outstanding record ‘I Des’, shortly after finding out the awful news that the gig was sold out, (for me that is, obviously not for him), was a welcome, delightful chore on a Sunday night.

But I should be balanced and objective. So, the encore song ‘Follow me’, after his 7-piece band pretended to leave the stage was a lame Amanda Lear cover. But he instigated a conga with some of the audience to divert our, or maybe my attention. (As a brief aside, he performed the same song for 6-music’s Marc Riley the following night where it sounded wonderful!).

He made a 47-minute record last over an hour because of his between song banter, which ranged from highly amusing and witty, to questionable. But that’s the extent of my criticism. The rest of it was a total joy. 

It is unusual to play a full album only a year after its release, especially as his canon is so extensive. But I remember him telling Mark Radcliffe and Stuart Maconie in an interview on their 6-music show last year, that touring for an artist at his level, especially as he lives in a remote part of Scotland, was a logistical and practical challenge. So, it is a genuine privilege to see him perform on this tour.

Following album opener ‘It’s Sin That’s Got It’s Hold Upon Us’, he played what he called his death trilogy ‘Burial Bleak’, ‘Dust’, starting with the poignant ‘Blue Marbled Elm Trees’, containing the beautifully plaintive words ‘I had the best time, laughing with my girls, I had the best life offered up by this blue marble, or any alien world’, all whilst imaging his fantasy funeral. Those words strongly resonate with me.

‘Walter de la Nightmare’, ‘Love is a Curse’, ‘Ides’ and ‘Please Come Back I Will Listen, I Will Behave, I Will Toe the Line’ are ballads, sung and played superbly here, continuing the enthusiastically melancholic streak of most songs, with just ‘Susie Mullen’ providing a spiky pop counterbalance.  

Despite 7 people in his band, there was no bass guitarist or drummer. Instead, we had a couple of keyboard players, a percussionist, someone providing samples, an accordionist, and two acoustic guitarists; one being Anderson, the other his support act Emily Barker.

Emily is an Australian singer-songwriter, musician and composer or many records, the latest being her 2024 album ‘Fragile as Humans’, songs from which made up most of her set. 

She was mostly solo, and beautifully performed her songs. She was a great storyteller, incorporating stages of her life into both the music and conversations with the audience. 

It was clear she is having a blast on this tour and has a great on-stage rapport with Anderson, contributing towards a wonderful evening.

Links:

King Creosote

Setlist

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Emily Barker

Facebook

Instagram

Spotify

YouTube

Sonic PR

Review & Photos - Phil Wright

What do these bands all have in common?  Silk, The Rich Kids, Visage, Band Aid? Yes, you’ve guessed it, the awesome Midge Ure!

From the get go, Midge was in really fine voice, (despite a bit of the man flu). He started with the Rich Kids’ song Marching Men, before heading into a set list that covering the years, the bands and perfectly showcased the writing, playing and singing talents of this often-overlooked man. 

Midge sings lead vocals and plays lead guitar as needed, occasionally moving over to his keyboards. As a result of both natural talent and years on the road, this man displayed outstanding stage presence and the ability to hold the attention of any audience. 

This is not called ‘THE CATALOGUE OF HITS TOUR’ for nothing. I had forgotten some of these great song’s but one no one will ever forget ‘VIENNA’.  

Midge, even with a cold, gave a stunning performance showing his powerful vocal range and the crowd loved it. As the opening chords to ‘Fade to Gray’ were played, the audience jumped out of their seats dancing.

If I was to be corny, I could say it was like ‘ Loves Great Adventure’ watching the audience, of all ages, up on their feet. 

Midge even gave a nod to the one band he said should have played LIVE AID… ‘Thin Lizzy’ with his perfect cover of ‘The Boys Are Back in Town’. This was one of the best feel-good nights out I’ve had in a long time. Seeing the audience dancing the night away but no one was ‘Dancing With Tears in Their Eyes’. (Sorry it had to be done).

Chuff Media

Review & photos - Liam McEvoy

It was a cold and windy night that welcomed legendary punk rockers Spear of Destiny and Skids to Leeds Becket on their joint Tour. The atmosphere was Electric and both bands performed storming sets that had the crowds rocking all night. 

Up First were Spear of Destiny. Formed in London in 1982 by frontman Kirk Brandon the band have been going strong for over thirty years and based on this performance they are showing no sign of slowing down. 

The band stormed the stage opening with their 1987 track Land of Shame which brought the energy from the off. It was clear that the band have a wealth of experience as they worked the crowd expertly. 

The electricity was palpable in the room and Spear of Destiny continued to perform at an astounding pace playing some of their biggest tunes such as Rainmaker and Young Men which had the crowd rocking throughout. 

The energy continued to build in the venue Mosh pits breaking out as the band stormed through the punk infused Soldier Soldier. Spear of Destiny closed their brilliant set with the incredible ballad that is Mickey before storming to a close with Liberator which had the packed audience rock to the end. 

Next up on the bill were Skids and whilst Spear of Destiny were a tough act to follow Skids were able to match the energy and keep the crowd rocking and energised. Front man Richard Jobson exploded onto the stage bouncing around like a bundle of pent up energy. Skids opened with Animation followed by the thundering track Thanatos. 

Touring to celebrate the 45th anniversary of their 1979 album Days in Europa the band kicked of their set with a number of tracks from the album including Animation, Charade and Working for the Yankee Dollar.

Jobson and crew showed no sign of slowing down and began to delve into their back catalogue starting with The Saints Are Coming followed by fan favourite Into The Valley which had the crowd rocking out. 

The band continued with their biggest tracks playing TV Stars and Hurry on Boys before closing their epic set with the anthemic A Women in Winter. 

On a cold night in Leeds both Spear of Destiny and Skids brought the heat with two brilliant sets that had the crowd rocking from start to finish. 

Set List Spear of Destiny

1.  The Sweeney Theme - Intro

2.  Land of Shame

3.  Rocket Ship

4.  Rainmaker

5.  Young Men

6.  Spirits

7.  Waster

8.  Playground of the Rich

9.  Never Take Me Alive

10.  Judas

11.  Soldier Soldier

12.  World Service

13.  Mickey

14.  Liberator

Set List Skids

1.  Animation

2.  Thanatos

3.  Charade

4.  Pros and Cons

5.  Working for the Yankee Dollar

6.  The Olympian

7.  Masquerade

8.  A Day in Europa

9.  The Saints Are Coming

10.  Into the Valley

11.  TV Stars

12.  Circus Games

13.  Hurry On Boys

14.  Charles

15.  A Woman in Winter

Sonic PR

Review & photos - Huw Williams

A wave of pure nostalgia washed over the crowd as Scottish alt rock stalwarts Del Amitri brought their catalogue of 90s hits to the O2 Academy in Leeds.

Judging by the demographic, many were there to relive their youth, recalling the decade that will have seen many through the formative years of high school and university. Some are hardcore fans. Others are familiar with the 1998 best of compilation Hatful Of Rain, which someone at the rear of the venue was declaring as his favourite Del Amitri record!

A sharply-suited Justin Currie led the band to the stage and they took their positions to a warm reception. 

It’s been more than 20 years since the band troubled the charts, but that hasn’t dulled the memories that their hits conjure up. Nor has it dulled the memory of the songs themselves. From the off, the songs are sung back at the band, seemingly fresh in the memories of the majority of the crowd.

Despite his trademark floppy hair now greying, Currie’s voice has stood the test of time and delivers the hits with great quality. There’s a bittersweet tenderness to the lyrics of their biggest hits, and these are certainly the centrepiece of the evening. Starting with the (relatively) new Nation of Caners from the 2021 album Fatal Mistakes, they then move straight back to the early days - Opposite View, followed by Not Where It’s At.

The melancholic lyrics that defined some of their songs - Driving With The Brakes On, Be My Downfall, Never Too Late To Be Alone - are delivered with tenderness and earnest that is reflected back at the band. There’s a warmth and connection that perfectly illustrates how relatable fans find the songs, and how much they’re relishing the time in the presence of a band that sadly, may not be on the road for too much longer. 

That’s not to say there’s no fun in this evening. Far from it, there is still some humour as Ian Harvie cuts a joyful figure at stage right, jumping, posing, rocking out before sharing some lovely moments with Currie as they jokingly disagree on how to end one of the songs. 

The band’s sound is reliably high quality and fills this iconic venue with its warmth and richness. From the barrier, to the back of the balcony, Currie’s delivery of the lyrics is still clear and encourages singalongs at every turn. That’s where the real joy comes from. Mass participation, celebrating the days when we were all a lot younger, still finding our way in the world. 

Time may no longer be on the side of Del Amitri but in stark contradiction to one of their lyrics, they still very much have that crucial piece of geography. Tonight, they were absolutely where it’s at. 

Set list:

Nation of Caners
Opposite View
Not Where It’s At
Kiss This Thing Goodbye

Always The Last to Know

It’s Never Too Late To Be Alone

Missing Person
Driving With The Brakes On

Buttons on my Clothes

Don’t Cry, Don’t Cry

Just Like A Man

The Ones That You Love Lead You Nowhere

Lonely

All Hail Blind Love

Move Away Jimmy Blue

Here & Now

Stone Cold Sober

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This City Loves You Back

Nothing Ever Happens

Whiskey Remorse (excerpt - in response to crowd request!)

Be My Downfall

Review & photos - Levi Tubman

A cold grey Yorkshire Tuesday, a perfect evening for staying in, but tonight even before the doors open there’s a strong gathering, always a sign of a good lineup! 

First up are Blue Violet and taking to the stage it's clear a lot of people have come tonight to see them play their own brand of alternative electronic tinged rock. From listening to them I was expecting something more sedate and quiet, but instead we get a structured and catchy wall of sound. The drums are pounding in your chest, the drummer is going hard but the kick drum is loud, along with the low end keys rumbling the room.

On the other side of this are the guitars and vocals, from husband-and-wife Sam and Sarah, which could be from another band. A lot of the songs have lighter guitar work instead of heavy chords, against the contrasting drums it creates a fantastic sound with the guitar easily cutting through. Taking the lead vocal spot, Sarah is a fantastic front woman, with boundless energy she’s hardly ever still. 

Set against this motion her vocals are almost other worldly and ethereal, like they’re coming from somewhere else, creating a unique sound, seamlessly merging frantic loud energy with catchy fragility. 

As the first band on it’s a short set, s the band themselves say, but they’re gearing up to tour their new material and I have to second the band by saying keep an eye out for them touring with a longer set you won’t be disappointed. 

It’s a quick turn around and before we know it Echo Belly are taking the stage, there’s no messing around as they launch into a trio of songs before addressing the audience.  Sonya’s voice hasn’t changed at all, it still retains all its tone and warmth, but I feel she was let down a little with the sound. Any worries that there were some vocal struggles where quickly put to bed on quieter sections, for some reason the vocal level was just a little too low, while this can help with the bands style they were just a tad too low at times.   

At one point that ever present smile drops, and Sonya makes a cutting action with her hands and mouths enough stop it, and steps back from the edge of the stage. Whoever was causing the discomfort either takes the hint or is stopped after a few times, the night is so happy and positive it would be a shame for one idiot to spoil it, but the professionalism shines through and they’re not put off.

Were asked to sing along, which gets a cheer, but this is followed up by “you can sing along in your Yorkshire accents” that’s it, it’s for Yorkshire now a roaring cheer goes up and you can hardly hear the band over the singing. Throughout the night jokes are made to the audience about the greatest hits are coming, and who wants to hear something they actually know now? 

It’s just the right amount of audience interaction, while quite minimal, its quite personal at times, calling out individuals who requested the last song of the night saying its next! And after calling out older more obscure songs someone’s accused of “just showing off” its light full of laughter and wasn’t used to fill dead space of a light set. 

As with all bands there are always going to be songs you know they’re going to play, but I didn’t expect and acoustic version of Worms And Angels from their second album On, and for it to be a stand out song of the night . Its delicate and beautiful, with its lightness letting Sonya’s voice shine through, and it’s not changed one bit. 30 years on from their first album it sounds just as it did on that first record, it’s not a particularly powerful voice,  but instead beautiful and precise, with quite a unique tone it really shapes their songs and style. 

Announcing it’s the last song of the night, their met with loud booing, before silencing the crowd joking it’s an encore, you know we walk off pretend to be done, then come back on stage and you all pretend to be surprised! I like a little sass between my songs.

Echo Belly are one of those bands that will keep surprising you, as you forget just how many songs of theirs you know. It’s not just the classics, despite joking about playing songs you might not know, their newer post 90’s material holds up and sounds fantastic, I’ve listened to newer albums I’ve not tried before after seeing them played live. If you’ve a melancholy alternative indie itch that needs scratching this is the band for you, I’ve not listened to them in a few years trust me put that cd on or get online and give them a listen. 

Set Lists 

Blue Violet 

Undercover 

Imagine Me 

Sweet Success 

Hard Rain 

Human After All 

Asylum 

Echo Belly 

I Can't Imagine the World Without Me

We Know Better

I'm Not a Saint

Car Fiction

Iris Art

Father, Ruler, King, Computer

Fear of Flying 

Worms and Angels (Acoustic)

If the Dogs Don't Get You, My Sisters Will

Down to Earth

Something Hot in a Cold Country

Review & photos - Liam McEvoy

With 2024 coming to a close what better way to end the year than with a barnstorming gig. Tom Meighan erstwhile front man of Kasabian called into the O2 in Leeds on his solo tour and delivered a phenomenal set that had the place bouncing. 

With all the swagger of a true frontman Meighan strutted on to the stage and opened his set in explosive style with anthemic Underdog. Meighan followed this up with his latest solo single Headcase which is another incredibly electric track that had the crowd bouncing. 

A few months on from the original tour date which was rearranged due to Meighan being unwell he was clearly back fighting fit. The energy he brought to the stage was contagious and filled the venue.

Throughout his set Meighan made it abundantly clear that he still has a lot of love for his former band playing a number of Kasabian’s biggest tracks including Empire, Shoot the Runner and Club foot. With these stadium worthy tracks like this it felt at times like the 2,300 capacity O2 could not contain the electrifying set. 

Meighan however did not have to rely solely on his former band as his throughout his solo catalogue there are some exceptional tracks like Don’t Give In, White Lies and Would You mind which brought carried the same incredible energy. 

It was to a storm of cheers and applause that Meigh ended his set. Though in true rock and roll form Mehgan returned to the stage and with the same incredible swagger performed the brilliant Movin’ On before closing the set with Fire. 

The gig and indeed the year could not have been closed with a bigger track and Meighan brought the energy to Leeds from start to finish and is an artist that is flourishing with his solo work. 

Set Liast:

Star Wars Intro

1.  Underdog (Kasabian song) 

2.  Head case

3.  Don’t Give In

4.  III Ray (The King) (Kasabian song) 

5.  Better Life

6.  Where Did All The Love Go (Kasabian song)

7.  High on You

8.  White Lies

9.  Empire (Kasabian song) 

10.  Would you Mind

11.  We Can Do It

12.  Shoot The Runner (Kasabian sing) 

13.  Exorcist

14.  Shout it out

15.  L.S.F. (Lost Souls Forever) (Kasabian song) 

16.  Club Foot (Kasabian song) 

17.  Movin’On

Fire (Kasabian song) 

Sonic PR

Review - Andi Bridges

When Tony Clarkin passed away a year ago, Bob Catley proclaimed that he couldn’t imagine being on stage without his fellow band mate and creative partner and Magnum would retire. So, it was a bit of a shock when this short tour was announced. Billed as “A Passage In Time – A Tribute To Tony Clarkin”, it’s a great way to celebrate Tony’s remarkable songwriting output, having written all 23 of Magnum’s albums, going back to 1972, when he and Bob founded the band.

The stage has a spartan look to it, Drum riser on the right with a double bass drum kit on it and to the right of that a simple guitar amp and cab. On the left-hand side, a riser with keyboards and on the left of that a bass rig. A white backdrop with just the band’s logo hangs at the back. 

At 8pm precisely the auditorium lights go down as a Darth Vaderesque figure appears between the two risers and asks “How Far Jerusalem?”. The band take to the stage and launch into said song. Before song three, Wild Swan, the question that we are all thinking - who has stepped into Tony’s shoes - is answered. The young man is Brendon Riley, and he was Tony’s guitar tech for a number of years. If he is nervous it doesn’t show. 

With Lee Morris, once of Paradise Lost, on drums and Dennis Ward, a top American session bassist, laying down a solid backbeat it leaves Rick Benton’s Keyboards to provide the melodic icing. The songs really rock. And what songs. We get – When We Were Younger, an acoustic and seated rendition of Tall Ships, a song not played live since 2002. 

The Flood (Red Cloud’s War), Les morts dansant, which provides the first lighter in the air moment of the evening and Don’t Wake The Lion (Too Old To Die Young). Bob’s voice isn’t the mighty instrument it once was, however not one person in the venue gives a monkey’s, we are in celebratory mood and it just fantastic to hear these songs one more time. After nine songs and an hour’s worth of playing time, the band depart.

Twenty minutes later and they are back with Soldier Of The Line and what’s immediately obvious is the guitar is much higher in the mix. Just Like An Arrow follows with its 1980’s double entendre lyrics, “it goes deep my love, only for you, just like an arrow”. A child’s voice starts speaking culminating with her asking “Can you tell me a story, please?” and the band play On A Storyteller’s Night and it the beginning of the end. All England’s Eyes, with its meaty riff is up next. Vigilante is the penultimate song with Bob acting as Ringmaster and leading us all in singing and clapping along. Kingdom Of Madness ends the second set.

After a brief interlude, they return to the stage for the encore. Bob dedicates The Spirit to Tony and the lyrics take on a more poignant meaning, “The dust lies thick on the casket rich or quite poor, Distinction disappears the worm both deplore, The candle burns out once more, But the spirit inside won’t be ignored”. They finish with When The World Comes Down. Bob says, “God bless you, good night, we’ll see you somewhere down the line” and then they are gone.

Who knows if Bob, now aged 77, or indeed Magnum will ever take the stage again, if they don’t, they have left on a massive high.

Review & photos - Levi Tubman

It’s a calm Australian folk invasion at the Brudenell tonight, with Australian born Emily Barker back for her second visit in as many months.

Opening the night is Melbourne born Liz Stringer, who’s simple setup of acoustic guitar and vocals quickly takes hold of the audience, with songs about her travels and life she’s a true storyteller. This telling expands beyond the music and into her stage banter, with tales of Ugly babies, old alcoholics and about how the north is friendlier than the south, giving a back story to her lyrics, and if you're lucky you might even find out what a metrologist does!

Taking quietly to the stage, Emily is joined by a small band of bass and drums, a trio that can pack a real punch. As the set gets underway were treated to a healthy amount of crowd interaction, with snippets about her life and songs.

We’re told how Life Is An Hour was written in mind Emily Dickinson and how the poet would scribble snippets on old envelopes quoting “Live your purpose detached from the outcome” as were given a glimpse into barkers inspiration.

Liz Stringer returns to the stage to play keys on a personal highlight of the night for me with Where Have The Sparrows Gone. The two singers’ voices perfectly compliment each other with beautiful harmonies. Juxtaposed against the often-delicate beautiful vocals the lyrics sing of plundered resources of the world while the far from delicate drums and bass thunder the music along.

The duo backing Barker are accomplished musicians in their own right, both providing backing vocals while drummer Rob Pemberton takes on synth and keys with Bassist Alex Heane swapping between 4 string electric and upright double bass, both plucked and bowed. 

A rare occurrence at the Brudenell tonight as the sound is a little off, at times the drums are so loud you can feel the kick drum in your chest taking over the sound, but for the majority of the night the over loud drums add a different edge to the gentler music giving it a raw bite.

Giving the band a break, to hopefully not eat all the cheese they put on their rider, Emily performs a few solo numbers. Bob Dylan must be up there as the most covered artists, especial where the covers are more famous than the originals, Buckets Of Rain lends itself perfectly to her voice, giving it an even more sombre edge than the original. 

The final solo song of the night was put out as a request from the audience laughing at all the requests of songs Barker has forgotten how to play, we get the best song of the night, Pause. It’s perfect fragility leaves the room watching in silence, and as the last note fades away it feels somehow crude to follow it with the blunt overloud round of applause despite deserving it.   

Bringing the band back on stage were told this is only their second gig together, yet they still play with fluidity and tightness you’d expect from a much more experienced trio. Showing just how flexible they are to working on something new, all three walk to the very front of the stage, with Emily on guitar the other two joining on vocals reading from printed out sheets after hearing her play the song earlier in the day, with no microphones its raw and stripped back and receives one of the loudest cheers of the night.

Along with 6 albums under her belt, Emily Barker’s music has also found its way onto TV, including the themes to the BBC’s Wallander and The Shadow Line, bringing her music to a new wider audience, but unfortunately tonight its not sold out but they play with all their heart and soul, most of the time eyes closed while singing loosing themselves into the music. 

It’s a great night from start to finish, more laid back than a lot of gigs there but all the better for it and the perfect way to wind up your weekend.

Set list:

1.  With small we start

2.  Call it a day

3.  Wild to be sharing this moment

4.  Loneliness

5.  The quiet ways

6.  Life is for an hour

7.  Woman who planted trees

8.  Where have the sparrows gone?

9.  Fragile as humans

10.  Emily solo song

11.  Sad songs

12.  Feathered thing

13.  Acisoma

14.  Machine

Encore:

15.  Emily Solo

16.  Dear River

Sonic PR

Review & photos - Liam McEvoy

On a cold February night in Leeds the sound of Ibiza landed in the form of Craig David. Playing a mammoth 2 hour set split into two parts David showed off his impressive versatility pleasing all those in attendance. 

Before the main event began the London based singer songwriter Lemar took to the stage and delivered a brilliant opening set playing some of his biggest tracks including 50/50 and If There’s Any Justice, which warmed the crowd up magnificently for the main event. 

It was then time for the headliner and Craig David swaggered onto the stage with supreme confidence and kicked things off with his latest single SOS before powering into the track that back in 1999 launched him into the spotlight Re-Rewind (The Crowd Say BoSelecta). 

David showcased his versatility throughout the first half of his extensive show playing massive dance hits like 7 Days (DJ Premier Remix) and What's Your Flava? As well as slower ballads which showed of his impressive vocal range like Walking Away and Rise and Fall. 

Where you may expect other artists to bring a show to a close for Craig David it was merely time for act two. Craig David performed a full TS5 DJ set playing some massive dance tracks including Flowers (Sweet Female Attitude), Jump Around (house of Pain) and the classic Show Me Love (Robin S). 

Following the DJ set there was just time for David to play three of the biggest tracks from his 2000 debut album Born to do It, Rendezvous, Fill Me in (Remix)/16 and then the only track that could close a Craig David show 7 Days. 

After a whopping 2 hours 15 minutes the phenomenal show finally came to an end and with the show in two such distinctive parts it showed just how versatile and talented Craig David is. 

It is a show that if you get the opportunity is well worth seeing. 

Set List:

1.  SOS

2.  Re-Rewind (The Crowd Say Bo Selecta) 

3.  Aint Giving Up

4.  Fill Me In

5.  What's Your Flava

6.  In Your Hands

7.  I know You

8.  GOT IT GOOD (KAYTRANDA Cover) 

9.  Warm It Up / Shy Guy

10.  Walking Away

11.  Can’t Be Messing ‘Round / Last Night / You Know What / Follow Me / Rendezvous

12.  7 Days (DJ Premier Remix) 

13.  Once in a Lifetime

14.  Booty Man

15.  Time to Party

16.  Rise and Fall

17.  Don’t Love You No More (I’m Sorry)

18.  Unbelievable

19.  The Rain

TS5 DJ Set:

20.  Woman Trouble 

21.  Flowers

22.  Its Not Right but Its Okay

23.  Sorry

24.  When the Bassline Drops

25.  Abracadabra

26.  Bills, Bills, Bills

27.  Jump Around

28.  You Won't Break My Soul

29.  Heartline

30.  Wild Thoughts / Music Sounds Better With You

31.  Rap*

32.  Show Me Love

33.  Nothing Like This

Encore:

34.   Rendezvous

35.  Fill Me In (Remix) / 16

36.  7 Days

Dawbell

Review & photos - Mo Longfellow

James Bay played at the O2 Academy in Leeds on Wednesday the 5th February, and I was lucky enough to go and shoot the gig for Wall of Sound. 

First up was Leif Vollebekk, a Canadian indie-folk singer song writer.  Shortlisted for the 2018 Juno Award for Adult Alternative Album of the Year, from the moment he stepped on stage it was clear why Bay invited him to open up his shows. His minimalist approach and beautiful vocal had the crowd engaged from the get-go. Just when you think things couldn’t get any better he starts singing Purple Rain (Prince). The crowd, singing along and in fine fettle, are now well and truly ‘warmed up’!

Bay enters the stage with a huge smile on his face, you can tell he’s up for it and is gonna enjoy the gig as much as the crowd are. I know it sounds really cheesy, but there is a feeling of joy in the academy, you can just feel that everyone is out to have a good night and forget about the humdrum of the day-to-day, to connect with others over a love of music and, to just let go and enjoy. Bay gave the crowd exactly what they want, I mean he property delivered. he opened with ‘Up All Night’ and from the moment he strummed his guitar and started singing you knew he was on fine form. 

He sang his latest single ‘Sunshine In The Room’ just a few numbers in. Released at the end of January you can already tell it’s gonna be a firm favourite amongst the fans. Bay plays it with an infectious energy and it’s great to hear it played live so soon after it’s released. 

He plays songs both old and new and whilst they are from different eras, they all hold their own and he plays them with the same, unwavering energy. Credit where it’s due, there is never a lull in the set, old or new, the crowd are fully immersed in the night. 

As brilliant as Bay is, the band really elevate the whole evening. They carry the numbers into a stomping crescendo when needed and then bring us back down to a, well, decrescendo (?!)  when required.  In any event, they’re ace, and they really know their instruments and help to make the night what it was; a really superb evening of great tunes, performed wonderfully to a great crowd. 

APB-PR

Review & photos - Liam McEvoy

The ultimate singer songwriter and all around nice guy James Blunt called into a sold out Leeds arena to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his debut album the multi-platinum Back to Bedlam. Released way back on the 11th October 2004 Back to Bedlam rocketed to the top of charts around the world and was the highest selling album of the 2000’s. 

Blunt came on to the stage to thunderous applause and as this was the celebration of the debut album played the album in full. Following the second song of the album and arguably Blunts biggest track to date ‘You're Beautiful’ he showed the wit that he is famous four quipping ‘that’s the hit its all downhill from here’. 

That however could not have been further from the truth as Blunt powered on and played the rest of the album. Throughout Blunt had the crowd eating out of his hand showing his humour and engaging even those who as he put it had been dragged to the show by their wife’s and girlfriends. 

Following the final track of the album Blunt encouraged the seated Audience to get to their feet as he said the listening part was over and the proper gig was staring and much to the delight of the crowd Blunt went on to play some of his biggest hits including, I’ll Take Everything, Postcards and Same Mistake. 

Following this final track Blunt left the stage and as custom dictates returned shortly after to play two final hits Bonfire Heart and 1973 which had the crowd dancing to the very end. 

Twenty years on from his debut album James Blunt has rightfully earned a reputation as a brilliant singer song writer and he put all of his talent on display in Leeds. If anyone has the chance to go and see James Blunt they will see a master of his craft at work and will see a brilliant show as well. 

Set List :

1.  High

2.  You're Beautiful 

3.  Wisemen

4.  Goodbye My lover

5.  Tears and Rain

6.  Out of My Mind

7.  So Long, Jimmy

8.  Billy

9.  Cry

10.  No Bravery

11.  I’ll Take Everything

12.  Carry You Home 

13.  Postcards

14.  Coz I Luv You (Slade Cover) 

15.  Stay the Night 

16.  OK (Robin Schulz Cover)

17.  Monsters

18.  Same Mistake

19.  Bonfire Heart 

20.  1973

Review & photos - Liam McEvoy

Following the release of his lates EP A Minute… back in November 2024, Myles Smith called into the o2 Leeds and played a great in front of a capacity audience. 

Taking to the stage to a deafening roar Smith opened the gig with the brilliant ‘Wait For You’ which saw the Crowd singing from the off. Indeed, with the o2 just about at capacity for the London based singer songwriter the crowd were in fine voice throughout the set. 

As an artist that has only been releasing music since 2023 Smith has already established a back catalogue of hits all of which were on display. Smith played all of his biggest tracks including ‘Whisper’, ‘Waste’ his single featuring fellow singer song writer James Bay as well as the incredibly catchy ‘Nice to Meet You’, which again saw the crowd in exceptional voice singing along. 

It was to thunderous applause that Smith left the stage however by popular demand he returned to play more three more tracks from his already impressive back catalogue. 

‘My Home’ and ‘River’ once again had the crowd dancing and singing in excellent from before Smith closed with the only track that he could. ‘Stargazing’ ended the set in epic style and cementing in everyone’s mind just how good of a performer Smith already is. 

With his Uk and European tour ongoing throughout February and March this is one artist that you should definitely take the time to see in smaller intimate venues as it surely wont be long until Myles Smith is playing the biggest arenas around. 

Wired PR

Set List:

1.  Wait For You

2.  Behind

3.  Whisper

4.  Betting on Us

5.  3AM

6.  Gold

7.  Solo

8.  Someone New

9.  Nice to Meet You

10.  Waste

11.  Dreamers

12.  Little By Little

13.  My Home

14.  River

15.  Stargazing

Review & photos - Huw Williams

Supporting her new album 11:11, Irish-born artist Biig Piig brought her tour shimmying and pogoing to Leeds’ Brudenell Social Club, following a string of dates around the UK and Ireland.

Emerging increasingly as a significant artist of this generation, Biig Piig - aka Jessica Smyth- blends pop, indie and electronica on her new record, which dropped earlier this month. The numeric title - tagged in millions of social media posts over recent years - represents a spiritual alignment, a moment ripe for manifestation and growth. In several interviews, Smyth has explained that this is a sign for her to take a moment and reflect and look at the possibilities in front of her.

She has clearly been manifesting well, as her debut album has been well received and she continues to be championed hard by the likes of Clara Amfo, Sian Eleri and Jack Saunders. 

The evening started with the excellent Rosa Cecilia, who delivered soulful lyrics in English and Spanish, a strong influence from her Chilean heritage. This mix heats the room up nicely as Cecilia salsas her way through the set under the warm glow of the orange lights. 

Biig Piig takes the stage following a high-octane DJ set and immediately gives us the opening track from the new album. 4AM draws on more muted, trip-hop sounds, and is accompanied - as much of the set is - with fist-pumping pogoing at the mic stand. It’s somewhat at odds with the mellow nature of this track, but you certainly can’t fault the intensity and energy that Smyth delivers all evening. With her satin bomber jacket swinging around and slipping off her shoulders, she’s trying hard to elevate the energy in the room, with great effect.

In the 19-song set though, only half a dozen songs from the new record feature. We’re taken on a journey spanning Smyth’s career, right back to Perdida from her debut EP in 2018.

The set sways back and forth for the first half, from the mellow to the more upbeat. Roses and Gold has some added texture with an excellent saxophone solo from the bass player, and Picking Up from her 2023 mixtape Bubblegum sees Biig Piig right in among the crowd as the dreamlike vibes wash over them. 

Smyth restarts the dance party with Sunny which segues neatly into the dreamy trance and funk of Favourite Girl, with its synth beats and affecting bassline. The level goes up again with the drum and bass-led Switch igniting the crowd. They bounce towards the end of the night through Feels Right - one of her biggest songs to date.

Smyth’s alter-ego feels on the cusp of something big and this run of shows in smaller venues might be the last chance to see her up close and personal. Closing out this tour at The Roundhouse in London, which holds 8 times more than this legendary Leeds venue, is surely more of a sign of things to come. 

Set list:

4AM

This Is What They Mean

Don’t Turn Around

Roses And Gold

Perdida

I Keep Losing Sleep

Shh

Liahr

Picking Up

In The Dark

Oh No

One Way Ticket

Brighter Day

Sunny

Favourite Girl

Decimal

Switch

Feels Right

—--

Kerosene

Chuff Media

Review & photos - Levi Tubman

It’s certainly lively in the Key Club tonight, people have hit the end of the week hard jumping around and singing along to Mr Brightside playing as if the Killers themselves where on stage before any of the artists take the stage. 

Supporting tonight is 25 year old folk singer/songwriter Odhran Murphy, and it’s clear there’s a definite fanbase cross over. He doesn’t need to speak; the moment he takes the stage there’s groups of high pitched female screaming   and it doesn’t let up. Every time he opens his mouth to speak between songs his soft voice is drowned out by the audience, so while I’m not sure what was said between the songs, his voice is clear and bright the moment he starts singing, captivating the audience with his music and lyrics giving us the perfect support for the night. 

As he takes to the stage a taken back Calum Bowie stops and swears looking out across the cheering sold out crowd turning to his band and laughing before he can introduce himself. 

Soon as the noise dies down he launches into We are the river, an obvious fan favourite, its fast paced catchy and energetic, with a driving drum beat surging the crowd forwards, it’s hard to get a shot with how lively the room is. 

Introducing the next song he ponders maybe Leeds should be renamed Weeds as its all he could smell all day, and that all cities seem to have something in common, as a little segue into Listen to your city. Writing about growing up in Scotland he’s stretching his lyrical legs, letting the words carry the song along with his accent coming clearly through, its lighter sound quieting the audience easily drawing them in. 

At the young age of 24, Calum’s career is still fairly young, with a lot of growth coming from his strong online presence, which naturally lends itself to preforming a few covers while starting up. Joking about his “new song” and that identify theft is not a joke were treated to a cover of Chappell Roan’s Good luck babe! A cover that is up there with the original for me, he makes it his own with a more acoustic twist, but I would have been hard pressed to choose a favourite that night. 

Throughout the evening his infectious smile never wavers, almost not sure why all these people are here to see him, this lack of ego really helps him connect with the audience with banter throughout the night with him and the whole band. The culmination of this is a story about meeting some fans out in Leeds that day where he climbs down off the stage, no mic just his acoustic guitar in a circle of people in the centre of the room all singing along in a unique fan interaction.  

Taking back to the stage to a new level of cheering he’s straight back into the set with every well written song played with energy and tightness, audience singing along to the words while dancing and jumping, it’s such a fun happy evening with Calum having the most enjoyment in the room. He’s charming humble and passionate, with a creative energy that’s propelling him forwards with no signs of slowing. Now the Key Club is a great venue, I’ve just bought tickets mid review to a gig there, but I feel this might be the last time we see Calum there. 

The next time he’s back in the city it’s probably going to be at a bigger venue, his fans want it and he certainly deserves it. 

Set List: 

1.  We are the river 

2.  Listen to your city 

3.  Home 

4.  Anthem 

5.  Good luck babe! – Chappell Roan cover 

6.  Sunset town 

7.  Wherever she goes  

8.  Dream of my own 

9.  Are you coming around anymore? 

10.  Time that I can borrow 

11.  All about me 

12.  Dancing in the sun 

13.  Edge of the world 

14.  Call me back 

15. Love lost - Encore   

Review & photos - Mo Longfellow

The Lottery Winners brought their Energetic Indie-Pop to the O2 Academy in Leeds, and they delivered an electrifying performance that left the whole crowd grinning from ear to ear. The indie-pop quartet, hailing from Salford, Greater Manchester, brought their signature blend of catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and infectious energy in abundance.

From the opening chords of their first number "Worry," it was clear that the band were on a mission to get the crowd moving. Lead vocalist Thom Rylance's charismatic stage presence and effortless charm had the audience singing along in no time (including to an acoustic rendition of Angels). 

The band's chemistry was palpable, with each member feeding off the other to create a truly dynamic performance.

The setlist was a mix of old and new material, showcasing the band's growth and evolution. Standout tracks like "New England" and "21" highlighted the band's ability to write and play anthemic, sing-along choruses, while newer numbers demonstrated a more mature, introspective side to their songwriting.  

One of the most impressive aspects of The Lottery Winners' live show is their ability to balance humor and heart. Rylance's between-song banter had the crowd in stitches, while the band's more emotional moments, such as the poignant "Super Power," showcased a genuine vulnerability and sincerity.

The Lottery Winners left everything on the stage, delivering an encore performance that sent the crowd home buzzing. With their infectious energy, catchy hooks, and genuine charm, it's clear that The Lottery Winners are a band on the up. 

Review & photos - Dave Flerin

90% of the punters politely queueing up outside Leeds Beckett SU are solidly middle aged, in their 40s and 50s. And, whilst waiting for the customary security frisk, I decide to kill some time by chatting to a few of them next to me. Unlike myself they've all seen Doves several times before and are as keen as ever to see them again tonight; clearly devotees then, not fans.

Support band White Flowers kick off the show; a three-piece with a big sound. The singer, Katie looks like a Lord of the Rings princess heroine, throwing out vocal ethereal vibes along with guitar, drums and keys over a meaty backing track. They shimmer with a vengeance and are definitely one to look out for in the future.

After an unfeasibly long changeover, and The Jam's “Bitterest Pill” (R.I.P. Rick 😥), Doves are straight on, serving up tracks from new album “Constellations For the Lonely,” interspersed with some quality older material. They're known for being awesome live, so the big question is, what are they like without Jimi Goodwin? His voice is all over the record, but he's not part of the live set up at the moment due to some personal struggles.

The answer seems to be an overwhelming “We miss him but we’re doing fine.” Black and White town is early proof of that, and this is validated by a crazy, all-hands-in-the-air reaction from a very up-for-it crowd. The vocals are mostly Jez’s tonight, and he pays a heartfelt and understated tribute to Jimi by declaring, "I know it looks a bit different, but Jimi's here in spirit."

The Blade Runner-y inflections of new album opener “Renegade” translate well to a live setting, with a note-perfect and committed performance. After the relative roominess of the photography pit, I decamp to the back to take it all in, and I'm shocked at how packed it is – there is absolutely no room for any more people in here. All the while, this version of Doves is relentlessly belting out banger after banger, with the older and new ones coexisting in perfect harmony.

Andy even gets to leave his drumkit to sing “Last Year’s Man” at the front, along with playing the harmonica (everyone's a front man these days!). They are effortlessly demonstrating how a band with an embarrassment of musical riches does it. It’s a night of intelligent, cinematic, hopeful, euphoric, and sometimes psychedelic, indie rock; gushing with lyrics of lived experiences, and played by dads. They're absolutely making the case for all the middle-aged bands out there who continue to make new, vital, intense music that still speaks to people today. So much so, that I'll give Jez the benefit of doubt over the "sunglasses whilst indoors" conundrum.

After encores including “Here it Comes” and "There Goes the Fear," the band disappear into the night leaving behind a physically and emotionally exhausted, but deliriously happy crowd. Doves 2025: still here, still relevant, and still amongst the best at this game. Absolute timeless quality.

Maintain Perspective

Review & photos - Asa Medforth

Roxanne Emery (or Rox Pink as she recently announced in social media) has been writing music in the name Røry for 3 years. She draws heavily from her own life experiences which lean strongly into the sadcore and traumacore genres. 

Not one to shy away from the more taboo subjects including addiction, grief and abuse she uses these as fuel to her energetic fire. In a relatively short time she has built up a loyal fanbase (37 Club) who it seems she connects with on many levels. 

The Leeds gig was the final leg of her Restoration Tour from the album of the same name which was launched as unsigned artist in January 2025. The downloads and sales broke Røry into the top ten album charts, which as the artist admits, is rare for a 40 year old breaking through. 

The show is a very well put together set, playing her most popular songs with hardcore fans singing along to every word. 

There was a definite feel of a catharsis effect as the full repertoire of pain, trauma and loss was worked through from the gothic opening tones of In The Bible to to closing roar of Blossom the crowd were taken on a full emotional rollercoaster of a journey. 

I can only see good things ahead for Røry as she continues to rise.

The Noise Cartel

Review & photos - Phil Wright

I must admit, I didn’t know what to expect from 80’s pop sensation Matt Goss,  but boy, was I in for a pleasant surprise.  He had definitely dropped the boy and become a man.

After the split of Bros, Matt left the limelight to reflect on his future in show business. He took an eleven-year residency at Caeser’s Palace in Las Vegas doing his loungeroom show.

Now back on the road, bring us new and old songs, leaving his pop style far in the past and treating us to his soulful voice with dynamite range.

He opened the show with the Bros classic, “I owe You Nothing’, but the sound was so different, I almost did not recognise it. Out of the sixteen songs he performed, only three were from the Bros era, but each were performed in his new soul sound.

We were also treated to covers of ‘Champagne Supernova’ and ‘I’ve Got a Woman’ by Ray Charles. New material Matt shared with us included ‘We Are Not Broken’ and ‘Firefly’, which would be a phenomenal and iconic Bond Theme Tune.

I can honestly say that, in the 80’s, I was never a Bros fan, but having witnesses him in action tonight he is now on my Playlist, which my Brossette Wife is very pleased with!

Review & photos - Levi Tubman

Opening tonight are Body Horror, an unknown to me and I really don’t know what to expect as the singer quietly takes to the stage in top to bottom press-stud 90’s Adidas tracksuit bottoms, and then the noise starts. With a standard drum kit and a drum machine it’s a ferocious beat with grinding bass with wild and heavily processed guitars it’s a wall of sound, an assault on the senses and its gorgeous! 

As the singers’ eyes roll back into his head screaming into the mic playing his guitar below the bridge and above the neck while throwing himself around the stage all I can think is I have a new favourite band and how the hell do you follow that?? 

You follow that by being a band that started off under the name The First Presleyterian Church of Elvis the Divine and have someone on stage whose job it seems to be, is passing Jack Daniels and Coke to the band. 

With various band members of Alabama 3 going under the name Reverand, or Sister, the audience truly are a congregation, out on this Sunday to worship at the altar of southern rock acid house. Opening the set is a cover of the Eagles Hotel California, with the amazing Devlin Love on vocals, it Manages to keep the song at its core while being as far from the original as Brixton is from California. 

After belting through a few numbers Love announces its time that track, a lot of people know them for the Sopranos theme song, Woke up this morning, so they’re getting it out of the way early so everyone waiting to hear it can leave and not have to wait all night, of course no one leaves. I doubt I was the only one there expecting it to be the big finish of the night, but theyre confident enough to get it out early on, and I have to say everything they played after was better!  

The band easily settle into their groove, the whole night is a performance, with a carousel of characters, while very theatrical and maybe a little tongue in cheek at times, but when it comes to the musicianship it’s all business. Who else would keep playing while the synth is tilted at 45 degrees while keyboardist Orlando runs his hands up and down the keys making it scream. 

The Alabama 3 are not ones to shy away from a political message, and they have a lot of material to choose from in this modern world. After more than a few comments about the “Orange man” we get Mao Tse Tung Said, an old school protest song, that has a strong and meaningful message, it’s just a little strange to see band members having a little Do-Si-DO dance halfway though, but it’s not unexpected. 

Set against this serious world song, we get The Old Purple Tin (9% of Pure Heaven) a song about extra strength larger drank on city street corners with the music smoothly changing into purple rain, keeping the lyrics as purple tin the crowd eat it up and happily sing it back to the band. 

The party feel is briefly put to the side for the first song of the encore, with a beautiful and soulful rendition of The thrills have gone. Just piano and vocals while band members look on, dedicated to various wrongly convicted groups, the room stops briefly for one of the biggest cheers of the night. It doesn’t quite fit with the rest of the night but deserves to be there just as much. 

There are very few bands out there like the Alabama 3, they should play somewhere called The Warehouse, they should play in a red brick building with no windows, hidden from the light plying their unique dirty sexy sound. Their fusion of electronica, rock and house is spot on, the band are lively and tight, despite the lineup changes over the years, the sound is of a band who have played together for decades, not a note or beat out of place, oh and what a beat!  It’s a constant throughout the night, turned up to the point its loud enough to be the heartbeat of the city and it takes hold of everyone with the whole room moving and swaying in time.  

The night is one long party, it’s hard to tell who’s having the most fun, band or audience? You could believe that this sold out 600 capacity venue is louder and livelier than the arena up the road, and for me this has been one of the best gigs of my life. 

If you ever get the chance to see either of these bands, do it, join in the party, dance and enjoy the wild weird ride!  

Sonic PR