rag'n'bone
Halifax Piece Hall - 10th July 25
Review & photos - Graham Wokes
On a hot sunny Thursday evening at the Piece Hall, Halifax was the perfect setting for a night of great music. After being told i need to see Rag'n'bone man by my wife and daughter i thought i best give it a go.
Before the main event i was introduced to 19 year old Kerr Mercer, this guy has a bright future ahead of him, from Lanarkshire, Scotland he has the voice and confidence beyond his years, At times he reminded me of fellow scot Paolo Nutini and for someone who's never released a song his songs felt very familiar, it has all probably come from the touring he's done over the last two years, the experience can teach an artist so much and as he said being fair skinned and ginger he needs to bring factor 50 next time. look forward to seeing in the near future and hearing some recordings
Next on stage was Elles Bailey, the Bristolian is a Blues/Americana singer who never stopped from putting her first foot on the stage, with a catalogue of four studio albums, touring and presenting work on Planet Rock Radio she is certainly always busy, her and the band kept the feet tapping with an upbeat set, the band were very
accomplished and along with Elles backing singer Demi Marriner (an artist in her own right) added a touch of glamour and quality vocals, they were warmly received, and the performance enhanced the continued sunshine
The main event arrived, and I watched with an open mind, The big guy appeared to an audience who welcomed him with roars of approval and declarations of undying love. He proceeded through tracks from Lovers in a past life, to Human.
For me things began to look clearer, the image on the stage backdrop has a fearsome looking guy you'd probably cross the road for, but the artist on stage was in fact more warming and even seemed slightly shy, his voice certainly is far from it he carried the crowd along with familiar hits with the odd obscure track. He's lately taken to wearing glasses which takes the edge off the tattooed image and his flirtation with dancing only last seconds as if there's embarrassment of being caught enjoying the music.
He's certainly a vocal powerhouse and the music gets you moving, Got to say i was massively impressed, for an old guy like me anyone who makes spectacles, and dad dancing cool only helps our image, i must say the ladies were right with a voice like that makes the man like his final song title a "GIANT"
paul heaton/Billy bragg
Halifax Piece Hall - 23rd July 25
Review & Photos - John McEvoy
Tonight, the British summer delivered its trademark drizzly weather, but this didn’t dampen the high spirits of the people who were attending the second night of the Paul Heaton/Rianne Downey gig at the Halifax Piece Hall, which was ably supported by a great opening set from Billy Bragg.
Billy Bragg took to the stage first, and delivered his folk-punk anthems, with his distinctive increasingly gravelly voice. Time has certainly not diminished his passionate beliefs and views, which went down well with the crowd, and it me be an oldie, but New England remains a huge crowd favourite. I first saw Billy Bragg back in the 80’s on the Red Wedge Tour and it’s heartening to see that he still burns bright and we really need more people like Billy Bragg!!
It was then down to headliners Paul Heaton and Rianne Downey to keep the damp crowd entertained and what a top job they did.
There aren’t many artists around who have such a vast back catalogue to call upon, and tonight was a reminder of just how many great songs Paul Heaton has written over the years with The Housemartins, The Beautiful South and also his solo material with tonight’s gig also including tracks from his most recent album release ‘The Mighty Several’.
And so tonight the crowd were taken on a journey through an illustrious career, and each song often found the rain-soaked crowd signing along.
Personally I thought ‘Sail This Ship Alone’ was a real highlight of the evening and judging by the reaction of the crowd, I wasn’t alone in this view.
His easy going and amiable charm soon had the audience on his side and throughout his vocal sparring partner Rianne Downey was in fine voice and their harmonies were just one of the many highlights of the evening.
At one point, he regaled the crowd with his comments about getting into Halifax earlier in the week and seeing a pub called the ‘Three Pigeons’, and he also mentioned just how crap he was at dancing, a confession which only endeared him further to the crowd.
There was also mention of a meet up with Ed Sheeran which I won’t go into detail about as doubtless someone, somewhere would be offended!!
We almost went full Coldplay as well with the introduction of huge balloon being thrown into the audience which duly bounced around the venue. There was no Kiss Cam though!!
Special mention should be given to Rianne Downey who has replaced Jacqui Abbott on this tour (no idea if this is going to be permanent or not at the time of writing).
Rianne is a singer songwriter in her own right and doubtless has a great future ahead of here either with Paul Heaton or solo. Her debut album ‘The Consequence Of Love’ is scheduled for release on the 17th Oct and you really should check it out when it’s released.
And so it was that a capacity crowd left the Piece Hall, a little damp but happy having enjoyed sets from the Bard of Barking and one of England’s greatest songwriters.
Let’s hope it’s not too long before they come back to this part of the world.
Set list:
· Just Another Family
· Bow Down
· Old Red Eyes
· Sheep
· Bell Bottomed Tear
· Quicksand
· Five Get Over Excited
· Sail This Ship
· DIY
· Fish ‘n’ Chip Supper
· Song For Whoever
· Me And The Farmer
· Small Boats
· A Little Time
· Don’t Marry Her
· Heatongrad
· Build
· Pretenders
· Happy Hour
· Perfect 10
· Let Love Speak Up Itself
· Good As Gold
· One Last Love Song
· Keep It All In
· Rotterdam
· Caravan
· Place In The Sun
leon bridges
Halifax Piece Hall - 24th July 25
Review & photos - John McEvoy
24 hours earlier at The Piece Hall, Halifax, it was a typical summers evening, it was raining!...
Tonight however, the sun was shining, all was well with the world, and it was the turn of Leon Bridges to entertain the crowd at this year’s outstanding run of summer gigs.
First up it was Leeds band, Gotts Street Park who provided a suitably soulful, laid-back set with tinges of jazz which the crowd seemed to enjoy.
Next up was the main act Leon Bridges and I must confess that when I first saw his name as a headliner for this summer, I was somewhat surprised as I wasn’t sure how many people were aware of his material.
However, I’m happy to report that a near capacity crowd proved that I was wrong in my assumptions. Texan born Leon Bridges has been around for 10 years now and his 60’s style soul tinged with a little bit of country was well received by the audience.
Dressed in his signature vintage style, all topped off with a white Stetson, he treated us to a trip through his musical backlog. As expected, tracks from his debut album, and grammy award winning ‘Coming Home’ featured heavily throughout the set.
But it wasn’t just the big hits that stood out. New material, including tracks from his recent album ‘Leon’ showcased his evolving artistry with tracks tinged with funk, gospel, and R&B. “Motorbike” brought a playful, kinetic energy, while “Sweeter” was delivered with a stirring poignancy that moved more than a few in the audience to tears.
The Wall Street Journal described him as ‘a throwback to Otis Redding & Sam Cooke’ and that just about sums up his style perfectly.
Again. I must confess that I was surprised at just how knowledgeable the audience were as they took the opportunity to singalong at any given opportunity.
But it wasn’t just the big hits that stood out. Bridges’ newer material, including tracks from his recent album, showcased his evolving artistry, with songs tinged with funk, gospel, and modern R&B sensibilities. Set opener “When A Man Cries” was a perfect example of this.
Credit should also go to his backing band who were as tight as a drum and provided the prefect foundation for Bridges vocals to soar throughout the evening.
Bridges is one of the rare artists who despite the size of the venue is able to create an intimate atmosphere throughout the evening, and ‘Lisa Sawyer’ during the encore was a perfect example of this and was a great way to end a sublime performance from an artist who’s growing band of fans loved every minute of.
Set list:
When A Man Cries
Panther City
Better Man
Flowers
Laredo
Coming Home
That’s What I Love
Never Satisfied
Mariella
Steam
Ain’t Got Nothing On You
Texas Sun
You Don’t Know
Bad Bad News
If It Feels Good (Then It Must Be)
Hold On
Can’t Have It All
God Loves Everyone
River
Peaceful Place
Smooth Sailin’
Lisa Sawyer
Beyond
texas/rianne downey
Halifax Piece Hall - 25th July 25
Review & photos - John McEvoy
After the rain of earlier this week, the summer evenings finally came back to welcome Texas onstage with their first appearance at The Piece Hall, Halifax.
First up though it was Rianne Downey who was onstage at the venue for the third time this week, having sung alongside Paul Heaton for his two-night residency earlier in the week.
This was a chance to play her solo country/folk material along with a couple of Beautiful South tunes which were warmly received by the crowd. She also took the chance to play some new tunes from her forthcoming debut album ‘The Consequence Of Love’ due out on the 17th Oct, in what is a ‘busy’ genre of music, she is clearly talented enough to stand out from the crowd and a promising career undoubtedly beckons.
During the short break more people poured into what was now a packed arena for Texas, and in short, they didn’t disappoint!
The band arrived on stage and opened up with the first bars of ‘Lover’, and after a few moments Sharleen Spiteri bounded on stage to a huge roar from the expectant crowd and powered through the opening track. Note needs to me be made of her guitar as well, which was one of the nicest looking guitars I’ve seen in a long time. (I clearly need to get out more!!)
Charleen Spiteri has been doing this for almost 40 years since Texas first got together in 86, and she knows how to work a crowd. ‘We’re here to party’ was her comment to the crowd and they certainly were…
Her inter song banter was a genuine highlight of the evening and after some back and forth with the crowd, she managed to establish that it was a ‘Fat Rascal’ she was trying to buy when wandering around Halifax, but unfortunately the queue was too big.
The party mode continued throughout the night, and the crowd took every, and any opportunity to singalong when the chance arose.
With the band having been around for so long and with 10 album releases to their name, they had plenty of material to choose from tonight, but I think it would be fair to say that this gig was like a run through of their greatest hits, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Charleen and Johnny McElhone on bass are the two original members of Texas still in the band, but the current line up including an occasional brass section delivered a high-octane quality performance.
There was of course the obligatory phone lights moment when they went into ‘In Demand’ which I have to say looked effective within the Piece Hall courtyard.
There is no doubt though that the star of the show is Sharleen Spiteri and it’s good to see that she shows no signs of slowing down, and her voice is still as strong as when the band first go together.
She has a unique talent in that one moment she can play the ‘Rock god’ and then be delighting the audience with a tale of talking to people whilst in a lift at a York hotel, all traits which further endeared her to the Halifax crowd.
I must confess that I was surprised they used ‘I Don’t Want A Lover’ as their opening track tonight, but I think set closers ‘Inner Smile’ and ‘Suspicious Minds’ didn’t disappoint and a capacity crowd had clearly loved every minute of what had been just one of s series of quality gigs throughout the summer at The Piece Hall, Halifax.
Set List:
Lover
Halo
Hi
Lifetime
Keep On Talking
Conversation
Let’s Work It Out
When We Are Together
In Demand
Mr Haze
Black Eyed Boy
Say What you Want
Inner Smile
Suspicious Minds
deershed festival
Baldersby Park - 25th/27th July 25
Review & photos - Neil Milner
Deer Shed, founded in 2010, remains a haven for families. Its atmosphere, pleasant, inclusive, and unfailingly friendly, is shaped by the children who play a central role in the festival’s identity. That identity is underpinned by a wealth of activities: tree climbing, wild swimming, DIY woodwork, art, science, crafts, kayaking, and a sports arena, all designed to keep young minds curious and hands busy.
Older generations find their own corner of joy too, with comedy, film, spoken word, yoga, roller disco, vintage stalls, a pop-up record shop, and yes, even a sauna!
But for me, it’s all about the music. The three main music venues are the main stage, in the dock and the lodge stage.
Friday Highlights
Curtis Miles opened the main stage with a mellow blend of bluesy folk, easing the crowd into the weekend. Over at The Dock, Dilettante’s angular art-pop impressed, with Francesca Pidgeon juggling sax, guitar, and vocals in a set tinged with Kate Bush-like energy. Saxophone, incidentally, was nearly as common this weekend as guitars!
The Pills brought punk attitude and playful anti-misogynist jabs to the main stage, earning admiration despite their nightmare journey getting here. The None followed with abrasive power tempered by Kaila Whyte’s powerful vocals.
Joan As Policewoman offered a ballad-heavy main stage set, technically strong, if lacking dimension. Antony Szmierek, however, was Friday’s standout: high-energy, inclusive, and utterly compelling.
Wunderhorse headlined, arriving to Black Sabbath’s “Planet Caravan”, in tribute to Ozzie Osbourne. It was a solid set that warmed the crowd up nicely.
The unexpected triumph came at the Big Top with Oh My God! It’s The Church: a funky, genre-bending spectacle, loaded with humour and potent political commentary. Led by Reverend Michael Alabama Jackson, he was scathing about Dopey Donald’s attacks that he has inflicted on swathes of his own people in the first 6 months of his already tortuous second term. By the end, people were waving their footwear in appreciation, but only because the Reverend said that shoes have soul!
Saturday Highlights
Cowboy Hunters opened at The Dock with raw, minimalist noise and closing with a crowd-wide Macarena. Tommy Wa’s chilled African folk-indie fusion soothed the main stage, though his under-employed drummer barely broke a sweat.
Sick Man of Europe’s goth-tinged electronica leaned heavily on Joy Division and Sisters of Mercy without much reinvention. Honeyglaze offered subtle, English Teacher-style arrangements and melodies on the main stage.
DJ and producer, The Anchorsong’s set was okay but self-indulgent. Jacob Alon, like Tommy Wa, evoked Jeff Buckley and early Radiohead. Adult DVD added a competent, industrial edge in The Dock. They brought back memories of a Curve single review in about 1990, where the journalist warned us that one day all music will sound like this!
Hamish Hawk, theatrical and baritone-rich, delivered drama and dark humour, especially with his epic single The Mauritian Badminton Doubles Champion, 1973. Maruja followed with an intense, sax-fuelled Rage Against the Machine-esque set. Anger well-articulated.
Ibibio Sound Machine lit up the main stage with their joyful rhythm heavy sound; vocalist Eno Williams was visibly moved by the roaring reception they received. The Unthanks were unsurprisingly beloved over at the Lodge stage, with folk-rooted storytelling connecting the past and present in ways more appealing than any politician’s backward-facing dream.
Kae Tempest headlined with poetic finesse. So many words to remember and all cleverly constructed. Not my usual taste, but their inclusive message, powerful performance, and minimalist beats were striking, especially under clear skies, a stark contrast to their previous storm-soaked Deer Shed gig!
Sunday Highlights
Chris Brain’s Lodge Stage opener was intimate, blending originals, covers, and acapella folk. Child of Prague offered a fresh take on Irish folk with more sax in the mix!
Silver Gore veered between erratic and epic, at times channelling Cocteau Twins, with ethereal pop potential. Mandrake Handshake, an Oxford-based eight-piece (yes, more sax), served up theatrical pop, occasionally chaotic but ultimately joyful.
Benefits turned up the volume, shouty, political, and confrontational. “Free Palestine” chants echoed throughout the weekend, including here, which I’m supportive of, but I found myself craving more balance, and a spotlight on domestic injustices like NHS support and economic fairness. Still, the chant resonated widely and stirred the crowd.
The Bug Club brought nonstop rock ‘n’ roll, a genuine antidote to the world’s madness. Welly, in the Dock, delivered Blur and Pulp vibes but mostly reminded me of Art Brut’s sprechgesang vocal swagger.
Bodega kicked off their main stage set with Black Sabbath’s Paranoid, again in tribute to Ozzy. They also paid tribute to the Ferris wheel riders across the field, and delivered a spiky, energetic performance, which the crowd loved.
Idlewild were majestic. Vocalist Roddy Woomble ambled around the stage like US military personnel marching at Dopey Donald’s recent birthday parade, but obviously with more alacrity and interest. Their performance of top ten hit ‘You Held the World in Your Arms’, was my personal high point of the festival.
Big Special, closing The Dock, were loud, brash, humorous, sweary and brilliantly engaging. Not for me, but I recognise they are infinitely better role models for young people than misogynist influencers.
The Big Moon wrapped the weekend up on the main stage. They were pleasant but predictable. Still, hearing Cupid and Trouble reminded me: not every band must rival The Fall. Sometimes, joy and relatability are enough.
Links
travis
Piece Hall, Halifax - 26th July 25
Review & photos - Liam McEvoy
Tonight the Piece Hall became the stage for a memorable return of Scottish indie icons, Travis. With anticipation humming in the warm evening air, a devoted crowd gathered, ready to be swept up in a tide of melody and memory.
Before Travis took to the stage, the evening was ushered in by a spirited set from The Magic Numbers. Their warm harmonies and infectious rhythms proved the perfect prelude, charming early arrivals and setting a buoyant tone.
The band’s easy camaraderie and singalong choruses rippled through the crowd, coaxing heads to nod and feet to tap as golden light lingered over the colonnades. It was a fitting match—one beloved group paving the way for another, weaving the anticipation ever tighter as dusk deepened and all waited for Travis to appear.
The night opened with “Bus,” immediately drawing the audience into Travis’s world of heartfelt storytelling. As the show progressed, favourite tracks like “Driftwood,” “Love Will Come Through,” and “Alive” resonated through the open air, each greeted by enthusiastic applause and nostalgic smiles.
The setlist read like a love letter to longtime fans, weaving through classic anthems and deeper cuts alike. “Good Feeling” and “Writing to Reach You” set the tone with their infectious energy, while “Re-Offender” and “A Ghost” showcased the band’s range moving seamlessly from raw emotion to spectral beauty.
Highlights included the uplifting “Side” and the tender intimacy of “Closer,” both of which had the audience singing along, voices echoing off the stone colonnades. “Sing” brought the crowd together in a joyful chorus, and “Selfish Jean” injected a playful energy into the proceedings. The contemplative “Raze the Bar” and the driving “Gaslight” further demonstrated the depth of the band’s catalogue, culminating in the poignant “Slide Show” before the main set drew to a close.
The rousing “Turn” brought the house down as the band exited the stage, only to be summoned back by fervent cheers for a memorable encore. The encore began with “As You Are,” whilst the performance of “Flowers in the Window” was a particular highlight—delicate and heartfelt, it invited the crowd to sway gently beneath the evening sky. The evening reached its emotional peak with “Why Does It Always Rain on Me?”—a song that needs little introduction, and one that had every voice in the courtyard lifted in unison.
Travis’s performance at The Piece Hall was more than a concert; it was a celebration of resilience, artistry, and community. Through a setlist packed with beloved songs, the band reminded all present of the power of music to unite and uplift.
Set List:
1. Bus
2. Driftwood
3. Love Will Come Through
4. Alive
5. Good Feeling
6. Writing to Reach You
7. Re-Offender
8. A Ghost
9. Side
10. Closer
11. Sing
12. Selfish Jean
13. Raze the Bar
14. Gaslight
15. Slide Show
16. Turn
Encore
17. As You Are
18. Flowers in the Window
19. Why Does It Always Rain on Me?
il divo - XX (20th anniversary tour)
Piece Hall, Halifax - 27th July 25
Review and photos - Liam McEvoy
Before the quartet took the stage at the Piece Hall, the audience was treated to a graceful performance by British soprano Laura Wright. Her crystalline voice and poised stage presence set a refined tone for the evening, and her heartfelt nod to the England Women’s National Team—who had just won the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro Championship earlier that evening—sparked a wave of national pride and celebratory cheers. The timing of the victory added a special energy to an already unforgettable night.
Il Divo opened their set with the sweeping “Somewhere,” immediately casting a spell over the crowd. What followed was a masterclass in vocal power and harmony, blending their greatest hits with a few surprises. “Hoy Tengo Ganas de Ti” and a hauntingly romantic version of “Unchained Melody” kept the crowd enthralled, while “Crazy” and “You Raise Me Up” offered moments of soaring emotion and uplifting warmth.
Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” received a standing ovation mid-show, reimagined with Il Divo’s lush vocal textures. “Power of Love” and “Nella Fantasia” showcased the group's technical finesse, while “Despertar Sin Ti,” their first original song in 20 years, stood out as a poignant highlight—a beautifully composed and performed testament to the group’s enduring artistry and evolution.
The set continued with beloved classics including “Isabel,” “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás,” and a stirring “Regresa A Mí.” “All By Myself” and “Adagio” delivered vocal fireworks, and “My Way” offered a stirring nod to legacy and independence, fitting for a tour celebrating two decades.
After a brief pause, the quartet returned for a two-song encore. “No Tengo Nada” melted hearts with its emotional intensity, and “Time to Say Goodbye” closed the evening with spine- tingling grandeur. By the final note, the stars had aligned: historic venue, national celebration, and a group at the height of their craft.
Il Divo’s 20th anniversary concert at The Piece Hall was a night of elegant spectacle, emotional connection, and world-class music. With the added pride of England’s football victory and the magic of live performance, it wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of timeless voices and national joy.
Set List:
1. Somewhere
2. Hoy Tengo Ganas de Ti Crazy
3. Unchained Melody
4. You Raise Me Up
5. Perfect
6. Power of Love
7. Nella Fantasia
8. Despertar Sin Ti
9. Isabel
10. Quizás, Quizás, Quizás
11. Regresa A Mi
12. All by Myself
13. Adagio
14. My Way
Encore
15. No Tengo Nada
16. Time to Say Goodbye
roger daltrey
Piece Hall, Halifax - 30th July 25
Review & photos - John McEvoy
There really is no other way to describe Roger Daltrey other than the ‘legendary’ frontman of The Who and occasional solo artist.
Tonight in a surprisingly not quite full Piece Hall, Daltrey was living proof that age doesn’t always diminish ability!
First up it was Simon and Oscar from Ocean Colour Scene who delivered a stripped back set of songs which went down well with those who in attendance which of course ended with the OCS standard “The Day We Caught the Train”.
It was then onto Roger Daltrey who arrived onstage at 8:30 and it was clear from the outset that he was delighted to be here.
I must admit that given his ‘vintage’ I was expecting some throttling back with his vocals, but I am pleased to report that age appears to have very little effect on his vocal ability and I was truly astonished at just how good both he and the rest of the band sounded.
At 81, he doesn’t move around the stage quite as much, but in no way did that detract from a mesmerising performance that took us through some solo material and a whole stack of ‘The Who’ tracks.
Opening the set with ‘Let My Love Open’ he immediately had the crowd on his side and his warm inter song chat with the audience and crew quickly endeared him to all.
At one point he regaled us with a story about living in a flat in London with his first wife and he had always thought that Pete Townsend had written ‘The Kis Are Alright’ about his own children.
The set was also made up of tracks from other artists including Paul Simons ‘Boy In A Bubble’ and Taj Mahals ‘Freedom Ride’.
But of course the biggest cheers of the night were reserved for ‘The Who’ classics and he didn’t disappoint, playing ‘Substitute’, (my personal favourite) ‘Squeezebox’ and ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ to name but a few.
Special mention must surely go the ‘Dave’ an audience member down the front who gamely offered to do the huge scream at the end of ‘Won’t Get Fooled’ although bizarrely security didn’t seem too keen on him and other audience members wanting to stand up and dance.
Daltrey stepped in at the point and suggested that they leave them alone as they were only enjoying themselves. Fair play to the security boys who stepped back, as this was certainly not a crowd likely to ‘kick off’!!
The Pete Townsend track ‘Going Mobile’ was also given an airing. For some reason, Townsend doesn’t like to sing this one live when ‘The Who’ are touring, but as luck would have it, Simon Townsend his brother was actually a member of the band tonight and he was on vocal duties for this, sounding not too dissimilar to his older brother!
Towards the end of the set, “Baba O’Riley” that had the crowd once again up on their feet and it was good to see that there is some borderline dangerous mic twirling still being done!!
As I mentioned at the top of this review, Roger Daltrey was clearly enjoying playing in this venue, commenting on what a great place it was and I certainly didn’t get the sense that he was simply going through the motions; this was a performer who, despite having seen and done it all, still found immense pleasure in the act of live music.
I was pleasantly surprised at tonight’s gig and if you get the chance to catch a set from a genuine bona fide rock star, you really should grab the opportunity.
You won’t regret it!!
Set list:
Let My Love Open
Freedom Ride
Who Are You
Waiting For A friend
After The Fire
Days Of Light
Giving It All Away
The Kids are Alright
Boy In A Bubble
Substitute
Squeezebox
Won’t Get Fooled Again
As Long As I Have You
Have You ever Seen
Without Your Love
Baba O Riley
Young Man Blues
Days
public image ltd
Holmfirth Picturedrome - 1st Aug 25
Review & photos - Mo Longfellow
On Yorkshire Day, the hills of Holmfirth echoed with punk fury as Public Image Ltd took over the Homlmfirth Picturedrome for a night of snarling energy, unpredictable antics, and John Lydon’s signature brand of chaos.
From the outset, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a gentle celebration. The set started off with masses of energy from the four-piece as the huge crowd packed the room and squeezed in at the front to see the legend that is. After a strong start, they launched into ‘Shoom’, and Lydon, ever the agitator, tried to whip the crowd into a chant.
But when the response was underwhelming, he didn’t mince his words: “If that’s the best you can do, you may as well fuck off!” The crowd enjoyed it, slightly stunned, but fully aware they were in Lydon’s world now.
The banter was relentless. Lydon took aim at his former band, The Sex Pistols, with a cheeky jab: “If you go see them, ask them why haven’t they written any new songs?!” It was a moment of pure punk theatre — biting, funny, and brutally honest.
About an hour into the set, Lydon announced he needed a three minute cig break, but not before rallying the crowd to celebrate their heritage. The room erupted into a proud chant of“Yorkshire! Yorkshire!”, turning the venue into a makeshift county rally.
One of the night’s standout moments for me came with a blistering cover of Leftfield’s ‘Open Up’, Lydon snarled through “Burn Hollywood burn, take down Tinseltown”, and the crowd responded with thunderous cheers. “You lot are very forgiving!” he quipped, clearly enjoying the moment.
Then came the anthem ‘Rise’, delivered with theatrical pauses and raw intensity. As the music broke down, Lydon screamed: “What is anger?”and the crowd roared back: “Anger is an energy!” — a perfect call-and-response that thoroughly captured the spirit of the night.
As the show neared its end, Lydon left the crowd with a promise: a new PiL album by next year, which he gleefully described as “even more repulsive than the ones before!” — a fitting finale to a night that was anything but ordinary.
Public Image Ltd. didn’t just play a gig — they staged a punk spectacle.
From cigarette breaks to Yorkshire chants, from brutal honesty to blistering sound, it was a night that reminded everyone why Lydon remains one of music’s most compelling provocateurs.
squeeze
Piece Hall, Halifax - 1st Aug 25
Review & photos - Phil Wright
Friday August 1st , and ‘Wall of Sound’ are at the Piece Hall in Halifax for a night of true entertainment.
Badly Drawn Boy started the evening off with a 45-minute set, accompanied by an acoustic guitar and vocals. I must admit this was not one of my favourite opening acts, but the 3500 crowd seemed to get behind him.
Now the stage was set for 70’s new wave legends, ‘Squeeze’. This was going to be a brilliant night. The fact that the majority of the Piece Hall was seated, it did not detract from the energy of the show. As soon as the lights came up on a very colourful stage, Glenn Tilbrook, Chris Difford and the rest of the band emerged onto the and you could feel the energy building.
Opening the show with ‘Black Coffee in Bed’, Tilbook’s vocals bellowed around the square as the rest of the band looked to be having a proper party on the stage. This was an outstanding opening to their set.
‘Squeeze’, having formed in 1970 and after a couple of breakups over the years and losing a few original members such as Jools Holland, just seemed to go from strength to strength.
For the next hour, we were treated to hit after hit, including ‘Pulling Muscles from a Shell’, ‘Up the Junction’, and ‘Cool for Cats’, along with new tracks written by Glenn Tilbrook.
Glenn reminded the audience that, although the event was all seated, this should not stop anyone from getting up to dance. The audience did not need to be asked twice!
All in all, this was a brilliant night of new material and nostalgia. May ‘Squeeze’ go from strength to strength and carry on performing for many years to come.
the saw doctors & the undertones
Piece Hall, Halifax - 2nd Aug 25
Review & photos - Liam McEvoy
This show marked the latest in The Piece Hall’s acclaimed summer series of gigs, and Irish folk-rock legends The Saw Doctors lit up the historic Halifax venue on Saturday night with a raucous, nostalgic, and heartfelt performance that left the packed courtyard absolutely buzzing.
Support came from punk-pop stalwarts The Undertones, who blasted through a tight, energetic set packed with classics like Teenage Kicks and My Perfect Cousin. They warmed up the Halifax crowd brilliantly and proved that their punchy sound still holds plenty of power.
Opening with the bittersweet tones of Exhilarating Sadness, the Saw Doctors immediately reminded the crowd why their blend of wit, warmth and melody has endured for decades. From there, the energy surged with crowd favourites like World of Good and Useta Lover, which had the audience singing along word for word.
The band’s connection with the crowd was palpable, especially during the rollicking Tommy K and the cheeky charm of Howya Julia. Long-time fans were treated to emotional moments with Share the Darkness and Awanderin’, the kind of songs that stir memories and pride among the long time fans.
By the time Green and Red of Mayo rang out across the courtyard, The Piece Hall had transformed into a sea of waving arms and beaming faces. It was a night for all generations—seasoned fans, newcomers, and everything in between—bound together by shared stories and unforgettable tunes.
Mid-set highlights included To Win Just Once, the stomping Back to Tuam, and the politically sharp yet tongue-in-cheek Michael D. Rocking in the Dáil, before the pace exploded with Rock N Roll and Clare Island.
A roof-raising rendition of Joyce Country Céilí Band turned the courtyard into a dancefloor, and the heartfelt I’ll Be On My Way and Never Mind the Strangers led perfectly into the beloved anthem N17, had the crowd dancing until the last.
The encore was a fitting finale: Bless Me Father delivered with gusto, That’s What She Said keeping the humour alive, and then an exhilarating mashup of Hay Wrap with Daydream Believer closed the night in glorious chaos, the crowd chanting in unison as the band bowed out.
In a venue that continues to shine as one of the UK’s most atmospheric open-air stages, The Saw Doctors delivered a masterclass in joyful storytelling and musical camaraderie. It wasn’t just a gig—it was a celebration.
Set List:
1. Exhilarating Sadness
2. World of Good
3. Useta Lover
4. Tommy K
5. Howya Julia
6. Share the Darkness
7. Awanderin'
8. Green and Red of Mayo
9. To Win Just Once
10. Back to Tuam
11. Michael D. Rocking in the Dáil
12. Rock N Roll, Clare Island
13. Red Cortina
14. Joyce Country Céilí Band
15. I'll Be On My Way
16. Never Mind the Strangers
17. N17
Encore
18. Bless Me Father
19. That's What She Said
20. Hay Wrap / Daydream Believer
the libertines
Piece Hall, Halifax - 8th Aug 25
Review & photos - Mo Longfellow
The Libertines Brought Passion, and Spirit to Halifax…
On a balmy August evening, The Piece Hall in Halifax was transformed into a riotous celebration of music, and unmistakable Libertines charm. With a string section nestled at the back, an upright piano and lasers slicing through the night sky, The Libertines delivered a set that was both theatrical and heartfelt.
They opened with three absolute bangers in the form of ‘Up The Bracket’, ‘The Delaney’ and ‘What Became Of The Likely Lads’. Judging by those numbers alone, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a typical gig, it was gonna be a truly great gig.
The addition of strings added a lush, cinematic quality to their sound, most notably, to me at least, during ‘Merry Old England’ where the stage was bathed in deep red light. The combination of piano and strings gave the track a melancholic grandeur, elevating it to something really special.
Midway through the set, the band were unexpectedly asked to leave the stage. A confused Pete Doherty told the crowd, ‘We’ve been asked to go off stage for a minute but we don’t know why’. As they exited, drummer Gary Powell shouted, ‘I know why, it’s ‘cos in Yorkshire you’re all so fucking awesome’! The crowd approved! When they returned, the band explained the pause: ‘It’s because people in the front row are being crushed. We need to look after each other, the powers that be aren’t doing it, so we need to. Are we all having a fucking good time’?! The response was very much in the positive.
In a moment of pure Libertines eccentricity, Doherty handed out books of poetry to the crowd, joking, ‘They’re 20 quid each unless you have a Libertines tattoo, then they’re a tenner. Cash only’! Meanwhile, Powell treated fans to a drum solo that seamlessly led into a rousing rendition of ‘The Good Old Days’, as chants of ‘Yorkshire! Yorkshire!’ echoed through the historic venue, something I hear a lot at gigs recently, we’re a proud bunch.
Of course, ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’ was a highlight, with the crowd bouncing and belting out every word. Doherty capped it off with a harmonica solo, throwing it into the crowd at the end of the number; rock n roll.
The band left the stage without a word, but the encore came swiftly. They returned with ‘Man With the Melody’, Powell swapping drums for piano, and the strings once again lifting the song.
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for. As the opening toms thundered out, the crowd knew: ‘Don’t Look Back Into The Sun’ had finally started. The Piece Hall erupted.
It was pure catharsis; dancing, singing, and a sea of smiling faces under the Yorkshire skies.
summer sounds
Cliffe Castle Park, Keighley - 3rd Aug 25
Reviewed by James Fortune-Clubb
Having until recently, for more than 30 years, lived in the Worth Valley - I can attest that as far as live music is concerned (save a very rare gig or two at Keighley Victoria Hall) there hasn't been anything gig wise to speak of going on in this area in practically living memory.
Anyone wanting to watch live music of any note, is required to venture further afield perhaps to the gleaming metropoli of Leeds or Bradford.
So good news indeed when it was announced that Summer Sounds, two days of live music at Cliffe Castle Keighley as part of Bradford City of Culture was to take place this August.
I'm here for day two and the rain is thankfully the slowing to a drizzle just about in time for gates opening.
The venue at Cliffe Castle is The Beacon, a really nice temporary structure which has been touring Bradford parks throughout the year and is sold out for day two of the mini festival.
First up on stage...
Bradford born Kenzo Jae, rapper, singer songwriter. Jae performs well enough rapping at speed and with a nice rough edge to his singing voice. There's a nice pop and melodic way with Jae's tracks, but there's really nothing new here, but he does what he does well.
Despite today being sold out, attendance at The Beacon is woefully poor for the first couple of acts and my heart goes out to them. Maybe the morning rain has slowed people arriving, maybe they're all just coming later for the likes of Poppy Ajudha and Nitan Sawhney - shame.
In between artists on at The Beacon, there's other events going on at this weekend's mini festival, including a drumming workshop - presented by 'One Drum' which is far more fun than perhaps anticipated. One Drum are a leading provider of drum workshops, they're a trio playing Ghanaian highlife music led by master drummer Abass Dodoo. It's really well delivered and Abass is a great entertainer. The sun is now shining and the drumming session is simply joyous.
Other happenings at the festival include a jazz dance workshop and local DJ Lubi on the garden stage spinning afro, Cuban, salsa and jazz sounds.
Next up on The Beacon stage is Sarathy Korwar - US, Indian, UK London drummer, percussionist and composer, playing today alongside two other percussionists. Korwar has collaborated with the likes of Kamasi Washington and Shabaka Hutchings and his wide experience shows - Korwar and ensemble play what might be described as transcendent indo percussive jazz. There's two tracks, the first one lasting around 20 minutes. It's great stuff and well worth attending today for that alone. Anyone following Korwar today will have to put in some work to top that performance.
Third on today's bill is Tawiah, who is a British alt soul singer songwriter, there's gospel, soul and jazz elements to Tawiah's music - she has a powerful voice, soulful indeed and emotional, the sort of music that helps heal the broken. A stand out track from Tawiah was ' Mother's Prayer'. Attendance in the room is still sadly poor and Tawiah struggles somewhat with the limited audience.
Next up and a definite shift in tempo is Summer Pearl and band The Anatomy. This is upfront, in your face, nu soul, with a contemporary mix of jazz and reggae, the band are tight and impressive and Summer Pearl has a great voice, occasionally reminiscent of Mary J Blige and they do a blistering version of Gershwin's Summertime. At long last, The Beacon now hosts a good crowd and the atmosphere is really picking up some.
Joshua Idehan is a London based poet/spoken word artist and musician, who has previously collaborated with the likes of the mighty Sons of Kemet. Idehan is is very entertaining, engaging, moving, amusing and dancing (the boy can move) - and he refers to his DJ/beat master on stage as looking like... "Mufasa had sex with Rick Rubin".
Idehan does probably his best known track 'Mum Does the Washing' which is great, as well as a more than competent version of Talking Heads 'Once in a Lifetime'. The crowd reacts well and it's a strong performance - personally, given the limited set length, I'd have preferred more poetry and spoken word and less malarkey, but let's not pick nits.
Time now for Leed's own TC & The Groove Family, 10 piece - strong, tight and tour sharp, give us a heady mix of jazz and afro beat. Led by founder and leader TC on the drums and despite coming straight from an ardous drive back here from Switzerland, the band deliver a great and energetic set which goes down really well in The Beacon - finally now full with an appreciative audience, great stuff.
And so to the penultimate act of the day BBC6 Music favourite Poppy Ajudha, who is largely unknown to me, so let's see what she brings.
Ajudha delivers quality contemporary pop with an R&B edge and it's a little too homogeneous for my tastes but well executed, her strength I feel is with ballads such as 'Crossroads' and she hits us with an excellent version of Alicia Keys - 'If I ain't got you'. It's a polished performance and her band work well, Ajudha has what can be described as pop star clothes, pop star hair and very much comes across as a pop star in waiting - time can only tell.
And now for the festival headliner - Nitan Sawhney, south asian and world music legend of some year's standing and there's a palpable air of expectation, anticipation and excitement, this definitely is the main draw of the weekend and definitely feels like a coup.
Sawhney arrives on a wave of rightly deserved adulation and his band including Aref Durvesh on tablas, Eva Stone and Shapla Salique on vocals, as well as an outstanding cellist (apologies for not noting their name) are as you'd expect, world class.
There have been some great and impressive performances today, but Sawhney and his band most definitely take things to another level - there's cuts aplenty from classic Sawhney albums Beyond Skin and the more recent Immigrants as well as others. Tonight's performance is by turns virtuosic, cinematic, eclectic, elegiac and hypnotic - in a word, outstanding and it's a perfect end to the day's festivities.
So a few final words on the two days festival as a whole - I was unable to attend Saturday, but gather that a great standard of acts were performing. Sunday's lineup was curated by Serious, the organisers of London Jazz Festival and at some points, today's acts did feel somewhat London centric.
To sum up though, this was a great event, which was well attended and reflectively diverse. Summer Sounds felt like a very positive event, with a very relaxed and happy atmosphere. Price to attend the music in The Beacon was £15 per day, or £25 for the weekend, which is great value for what was delivered. In addition, all of the other activities as well as food stalls were free to access for those not paying to watch the music. Naysayers take note!
All power as well to stage management and technicians - turning over 8 acts in 9 and 1/2 hours can be no mean feat and the sound quality was great throughout.
Summer Sounds was one of many, many events being staged throughout the year as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture and whilst Bradford like any other city, has it's fair share of problems, on day's like today, we should be celebrating.
Bradford did itself proud!!
extreme & terrorvision
Piece Hall, Halifax - 7th Aug 25
Review & photos - Phil Wright
Thursday night and the Piece Halifax rocked with the amazing sounds of ‘Extreme’ and ‘Terrorvision’.
Originating from just down the road in Bradford, it was like a homecoming for local lads ‘Terrorvision’. These guys know how to put on a show. Lead singer Tony Wright never stopped jumping and dancing around from start to finish. I was out of breath just watching him. ‘Terrorvision’ have been around for many years now, and I’ve had the pleasure of seeing them twice. Once back in the 90s, and then on Thursday night. I can honestly say that they just seem to get better with age.
The crowd at the Piece Hall witnessed a master class in opening a rock show. If you get the chance to see them on the ‘I’m not a robot’ tour, you will be in for one hell of a night with a mix of new and old material and maybe a little bit of tequila.
Now it was time for ‘Extreme’. A band I’ve always admired but never had the pleasure of seeing live until now. I was not disappointed. With the amazing vocals of Gary Chrone who entered the stage like a man possessed, his vocal range was immense, and his stage presence was unbelievable, never stopping to take to take a breath.
Pounding the base was Pat Badger who was unbelievably cool, making it look so easy with some amazing bass riffs after the first few bars of the opening number, ‘It’s a Monster’.
I could just not take my eyes off the brilliant Nuno Bettencourt who must be one of the greatest guitarists I have ever seen live. For the next two hours, the 4000-audience members were treated to hit after hit after hit and a few surprises along the way.
‘Extreme’ must be one of the hardest working rock bands out there. Their sound was so tight and Gary’s vocals just made it a pleasure to rock out to. We were treated to hits like ‘Hole in my Heart’ and ‘Get the Funk Out’ and, of course, the timeless classic ‘More Than Words’.
This had to be the best gig I’ve seen this year. What a way to finish the show and send the crowd into a frenzy performing their own tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne with a medley of ‘I Don’t Know’, ‘Bark at the Moon’ and ‘Crazy Train’.
An amazing night. The Piece Hall rocked!
john bramwell
Parish Old Court, Huddersfield - 8th Aug 25
Review - James Fortune-Clubb
Tonight it's The Parish in Huddersfield - a great venue that I've only recently become acquainted with and we're here to see John Bramwell - formerly of Mercury nominated Manchester alt/indie rock luminaries 'I Am Kloot' and subsequently solo singer songwriter.
John Bramwelll and the Full Harmonic Convergence - a great name, is back with his/their latest album, 'The Light Fantastic' which is, we are told a step away from the darker themed Kloot songs, rather it's a collection of exhilarating four part harmonies with strings, so let's see what tonight brings.
Tonight's support act is Manchester musician Dave Fidler, his career already 10 years in, several singles, EPs and 2 albums under his belt.
Fidler is a close Friend and longstanding musical collaborator of Bramwells and indeed as it turns out is a member of Branwell's band tonight. He plays acoustic guitar, harmonica, and is impressively proficient on both with particularly fine guitar picking skills. Fidler's songs are affecting and there's a Dylan edge which I can't quite put my finger on. A good start to the evening.
This is the second gig of the Branwell tour and the room is filling up nicely. I get the impression there's plenty of Bramwell/Kloot diehards and regular supporters here tonight.
Being familiar with I Am Kloot in name only (and what a great name it is) I'm here tonight with no expectations and an open mind to see what Branwell and Co bring to the table.
There's an interesting array of instruments on stage, guitars both acoustic and electric, a cello, an accordion, keys but no sign of any percussion... intriguing.
Before we know it, the band are upon us and are straight in with a really strong couple of opening tracks, those close vocal harmonies are on show and whilst there's a certain amount of shamatuerism going on, this is both humourous and ironic because the band are really tight, especially considering this is only the 2nd gig into the tour (they opened the previous night in Liverpool).
It's a very acoustic and organic performance from Bramwell and band, the percussion is effectively provided by way of a cajon (drum box) impressive cello playing and there's close vocal harmonies aplenty throughout many tracks.
Bramwell himself is very personable, funny and quite the showman with amusing anecdotes to share with the appreciative crowd. His voice is strong and by turns reminiscent of David Gray, John Lennon and even Roddy Frame on occasion, but still distinctively his own.
Musically there's shades of Americana, late period Beatles, even 60s west coast Byrd's to a lesser degree. There's a split roughly of about 70% Branwell tracks and 30% Kloot songs, a ratio which is apparently tilting progressively more in favour of non Kloot songs as the years progress and quite rightly so.
On tonight's showing, I came away feeling that Bramwell is a very underrated songwriter who warrants more solo success than he has as yet been afforded. A really impressive performance tonight from Bramwell and the band - a great show, deserving of a bigger venue and more support.