tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26683202728866575452011-07-30T17:19:46.096+01:00NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.comBlogger1101100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-87502699057991161592010-11-01T14:49:00.002Z2010-11-01T14:51:09.549Z

The Joy Formidable play tonight as part of the NME Radar tour. After the performance they gave, they’ve plonked themselves well and truly on the map. After an interesting set (in the broadest sense of the word) by support act the Flats, followed by Chapel Club, the crowd rapturously applaud the Joy Formidable on stage. The North Wales three piece outfit suit their name – they are a joy to watch

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-26804086611809105202010-11-01T14:43:00.001Z2010-11-01T14:44:23.718Z

I shall at this moment that I am not, and indeed never have been, a keen fan of hardcore nor punk music and so it comes as no surprise when I shall that the gig at the Northumberland Arms on 19th October was my first hardcore gig. I must also take this opportunity to state that I was surprised by the sheer quality of the hardcore scene in Newcastle, with the level of musicianship being far above

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-64978038010510137032010-11-01T14:41:00.000Z2010-11-01T14:43:07.948Z

Having had the honour to meet and interview The Count and Sinden mere hours before their headline slot at Digital, I had the opportunity to question them on their set-list, but like every great artist and magician, they were tight-lipped on what was to come. But what was to come was an amazing display of skill and ability as not only DJs but as performers, playing what can only be described as

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-61598646254970405352010-11-01T14:39:00.001Z2010-11-01T14:40:25.361Z

Hall One, The Sage Gateshead, 15th OctoberElevated on a platform bordered with glowing lanterns, the heavily-varnished o-daiko gleamed centre-stage. Magnificent in both size and design, its mere presence commanded respect from the eager audience that filled Hall One in The Sage Gateshead. Around it lay an array of Japanese drums in all shapes and sizes. The lights dimmed and a spot shone on the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-22214733025975836752010-10-08T16:05:00.001+01:002010-10-08T16:07:00.911+01:00

The last couple of years have seen the prominence and the fan base of Architects soar. Their blazing performance at the 02 Academy 2 is an indication why. The event was bursting at high energy levels well before Architects graced the stage – a sold out crowd proceeded to mosh relentlessly throughout the three support acts, culminating in a ferocious fight between two fans during the Norma Jean

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-1213440130291425612010-07-20T15:12:00.003+01:002010-07-24T18:29:01.667+01:00

KAVINSKY // KAP BAMBINO // AUTOKRATZ // IS TROPICAL// TEENAGERS IN TOKYO // PUNX SOUNDCHECK // RUBICKSSATURDAY 14th AUGUST 2010KOKO, 1A CAMDEN HIGH ST, LONDON, NW1 7JE9pm – 3am£10 advance / £13 doorTickets from www.ticketground.co.ukPurveyors of style and taste The Playground are taking over the sumptuous surroundings of Camden’s KOKO for a night of cutting edge electro and intoxicating beats

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-65012918348549279422010-06-15T15:52:00.003+01:002010-06-15T17:36:23.964+01:00

The biggest musical event of the North Eastern calendar Evolution festival which straddles the Tyne is now more expensive and more full of pre-pubescent drunkards than ever before due its strategic occurrence right in the middle of university exams...still don’t let that put you off, the line up was varied to say the least with fantastic dance heavy acts dominating the Blatic stage on the Sunday

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-31636035526537286902010-05-06T18:27:00.001+01:002010-05-06T18:30:43.890+01:00

29th May 2010Reviewed by Rob SellarsOk, consider this: you have Mystery Jets, finally making their return to the world after a short break following their second studio album, Twenty One. Then you have a multi-storey car park located in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. And finally you have a load of Chevrolet’s turned on their sides in all sorts of abstract angles. This is indeed the Chevrolet

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-5222974415697834662010-05-06T18:25:00.000+01:002010-05-06T18:27:44.288+01:00

Previewed by Hedd ThomasConcert date: Sunday 2nd MayVenue: Hall One, The Sage GatesheadTickets: £19.50Rokia Traoré has come a long way and changed directions many times in her colourful career. Born into a long history of Malian musicians, the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has consistently delighted the public and critics alike for her rich and varying styles.Releasing her first

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-90971606382695831942010-05-06T18:22:00.001+01:002010-05-06T18:25:48.396+01:00

Previewed by Hedd ThomasConcert date: Friday 7th MayVenue: Hall Two, The Sage GatesheadTickets: £10 - £14.50Possibly the UK's leading Tango company, Tango Siempre will be presenting their final “Malandras del Tango” show in the Sage Gateshead this Friday evening. Featuring Gotan Project's virtuoso Bandoneon player Victor Villena as well as highly-rated vocalist Guillermo Rozenthuler as special

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-62633661106824054222010-04-23T18:44:00.000+01:002010-04-23T18:46:58.763+01:00

Reviewed by George SorleyNestled in the heart of the Ouseburn valley, the Cluny is recognised as one of the most important music venues in Newcastle and is the ideal place for music lovers to watch new talent and local heroes. The Love Music/Hate Racism gig organised by NSR’s very own Louise Morris fitted the bill perfectly. Opening the bill were The Components led by energetic Camilla

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-34582521987339776332010-03-11T21:16:00.002Z2010-03-11T21:17:46.816Z

Afrobeat/Jazz fusion19th February 2009Reviewed by Hedd ThomasWithin weeks of the devastating earthquake striking Haiti there were various fundraising gigs. Some were rehearsed and well-organised, others less so. But if there was event that was sure to find the right balance of reflection and support for the relief effort with enjoyable, danceable music, this was it.The evening started with a true

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-77712369332432125042010-03-11T21:13:00.001Z2010-03-11T21:15:04.133Z

Hindustani Classical Music20th February 2009Reviewed by Hedd ThomasAfter a year in the making, the stage was set. With carpets laid ready to welcome the musicians in the mahogany-walled Neville Hall, the small but eager audience would have been forgiven for thinking they'd stepped back in time to when the world was bigger and India conjured images of mysticism.Coming all the way from Germany for

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-67532635963752555322010-03-02T20:22:00.001Z2010-03-02T20:23:37.003Z

Reviewed by Stephen FerrellThe Head of Steam was packed as Andy Knox and his band took the stage. It had been relatively empty for the other bands at this latest to far north event. So it was clear who the majority of the crowd had come to see. The crowd were not left disappointed either as Andy proved himself to be a highly talented and entertaining front man. Well received by the crowd with

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-27840219016112457682010-03-01T20:19:00.000Z2010-03-01T20:20:12.823Z

Reviewed by Adam WilliamsMarina and the Diamonds arrived in Newcastle for an intimate gig at Digital’s Other Rooms. Hotly tipped as a star of 2010, her recent single Hollywood stormed into top 20 and she’s become something of a Radio 1 favourite in recent months, no doubt boosting her popularity.Early in the gig she admits that only 12 people showed up to her gig in the city last year, this time

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-26289931262736442412010-02-24T16:08:00.002Z2010-02-24T16:28:31.385Z

19th Feb 2010Reviewed by Izaac CarlisleFirst things first! I would like to use this platform to formally protest at Google Maps for putting the O2 Academy in the wrong place! Thanks to your incompetence I nearly missed the gig, spent an hour walking around the city and only getting to the academy by pure luck and some good navigating by local Brummies.Anyway, back to the music. I arrive just as

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-85622606219510612002010-02-23T21:58:00.002Z2010-03-01T20:45:11.257Z

15.2.2010 Reviewed by Paddy GilhooleyAn unexpected evening was in store for the 40 or so members of Imogen Heap’s previously sold out crowd who had remained in the Sage Gateshead’s Hall 2. Heap had made the announcement that she had been struck down by the dreaded lurgy ten minutes after the show was supposed to start - Most people left; taking a refund instead of the chance to see something

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-51867142121694083832010-02-05T12:05:00.000Z2010-02-05T12:06:12.596Z

Reviewed by Adam WilliamsT4’s Outside-In festival brought together some of the biggest acts around for a day of music at the iconic Sage Gateshead. Using a similar formula to T4 On The Beach, each act performed 3 or 4 of their most popular songs which kept the festival moving at a fast pace but often left you a tad unsatisfied when a band had to leave the stage just as they were getting into

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-32021408568251535562010-02-02T23:05:00.000Z2010-02-02T23:07:01.637Z

Reviewed by Sophie StewartHaving never been to the Sage before, I was first of all blown away by the incredible building that this festival was hosted in. There were two main stages, one was set up in the foyer, and one was the Gateshead College Stage. Pixie Lott was the first act we saw, and she was awesome. She had such a great presence on the stage as well, the crowd loved her. The Courteeners

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-32843946672521380092010-02-02T22:58:00.001Z2010-02-02T23:00:04.893Z

Reviewed by Clare RussellThe Outside-In Festival on 30th of January at the Sage, Gateshead proved to be a huge success. The venue itself was spectacular and performances by the Sugarbabes, Alphabeat, N-Dubz and Pixie Lott were equally as impressive. On entering the building and leaving the cold weather behind, the lively atmosphere inside was sure to get everyone in the mood to party! Pixie Lott

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-70532943074157712512010-01-31T18:17:00.001Z2010-01-31T18:19:24.005Z

Reviewed by Chris Render As a big fan of Irish rockers The Answer, I jumped at the chance to see them live last Saturday at the 02 Academy, on the fourth night of their first headlining tour. After all, Everyday Demons, the band’s second album, is a strong contender for my album of the year. So any opportunity to see the band play one of Newcastle’s best venues was one I had no intentions of

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-20147299019329144732010-01-31T18:15:00.000Z2010-01-31T18:16:23.602Z

Reviewed by Chris RenderI was never a huge fan of The Fratellis, so initially I approached Jon Lawler’s new project Codeine Velvet Club with some apprehension. However, after listening to their eponymous debut album, I realised my doubts had been misplaced, and was therefore rather excited at the chance to see them live. And they did not disappoint.Lawler is a performer in every sense of the word

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-82904804500362814692010-01-31T18:13:00.000Z2010-01-31T18:14:32.989Z

Reviewed by Chris RenderAsobi Seksu provided me with a musical experience that I don’t expect to forget any time soon. The eclectic New York dream-pop extravaganza was unlike anything I had ever seen, a fantastic window into the shoegazing genre.The dynamic performance of the band, most notably lead vocalist Yuki Chikudate, only acted to further improve the experience, adding to the talented and

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-54703513241470940612010-01-31T18:09:00.002Z2010-01-31T18:12:55.798Z

Three bands in one night, and only one I’d heard much from in advance. And they were up first. Newcastle based heavy metal four-piece Remedy were, in my opinion, the highlight of the night. Dynamic, entertaining and clearly enjoying themselves, these talented musicians provided a great start to the night, and vocals of Jenn Cherene provided a refreshing female element to a genre more commonly

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-54986180176647748612010-01-31T18:08:00.000Z2010-01-31T18:09:36.251Z

Reviewed by Chris RenderI arrived at the O2 Academy a little late for this gig, and so much to my regret, I missed the first support, so you’ll have to make your own judgements on Symphony Cult. The second support, however, a band called Our Malevolent Tyranny, were more than sufficient, the perfect opener for Breed 77. Now this wasn’t the first time I’d seen the Gibraltarian metal group in

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-50238290189730696932010-01-31T18:06:00.000Z2010-01-31T18:07:56.745Z

Reviewed by Chris RenderI hadn’t really heard much from this band before the night, but heralded as “the loudest band in New York”, A Place to Bury Strangers were always going to be something special. However, I had no idea quite what I was in for as the NY trio took to the stage in Digital’s Other Rooms on the 13th of November this year. They were phenomenal. The set, although relatively short,

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-23392917306654929182010-01-26T21:55:00.001Z2010-01-26T21:56:46.530Z

Reviewed by Izaac CarlisleExit Ten are from Reading. That is as much as I knew as I trundled through the rainy streets of Birmingham to Eddie’s Rock Bar (think Trillians but without a lick of paint. Or paint for that matter). A friend had recommended them; however their choice of support bands didn’t really fit in with the headline act. Just for those not that filled in about these things, Exit

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-8968132837372448822010-01-26T21:49:00.000Z2010-01-26T21:50:36.361Z

Reviewed by Scott McLoughlinMausi are a quintessential Indie, University band experience. The Band however has ruined my flattering and ‘Punny’ review by changing their name (apparently for ‘legal reasons’). Formerly Paper Planes, they are now ‘Mausi’. Nevertheless due to my need to use aviation based metaphors, and as I haven’t seen them under their new name this review will still put across

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-84185514712516058512010-01-16T16:16:00.001Z2010-01-16T16:20:15.271Z

Reviewed by Matt HudspithAfter seeing Dj Yoda perform before at Bestival, I was extremely fortunate and excited to see him perform again. This time however, it was a bit different.. It was 9 o'clock on a wednesday evening at an intimate Academy 2 in Newcastle. The brilliant thing about seeing Dj Yoda play is that you have no idea what to expect, whether its just a dj set or an Audio-Visual set,

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-52211529164013731752010-01-16T16:14:00.000Z2010-01-16T16:16:17.067Z

Reviewed by Matt HudspithLast night was the first time I had ever been to a circus, and although The Chinese State Circus is not your typical circus, it still had me glued to my seat at The Sage in Gateshead. We were treated to watch the story of 'Mulan' unfold right before our eyes and although this was a performance geared towards children the majority of the crowd was made up of adults, all

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-27695785034604509332010-01-16T16:07:00.000Z2010-01-16T16:09:40.885Z

Reviewed by Christian AllenIt’s been over two years since Good Shoes released their debut album, Think before You Speak, and 3 years since they’re early demos dominated British music website discussion boards. For a band who have been extremely quiet throughout most of 2008 and 2009 tonight’s turn out is testament to their sound, especially in the stronghold for lad-rock that is

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-36485524461724605612009-12-02T18:50:00.002Z2009-12-02T18:53:18.382Z

Reviewed by Hedd Thomas“Oh, how very ethnic,” reacted a gentleman when I told him of this concert I'd be attending. If by “ethnic” he was referring to the 14th Century origins of the music and poetry then he was right; if, however, he was expecting something simple in both its music and its following then eyeing the smart suits and ties of the performers even before hearing their enticing sounds

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-21881574845540788222009-12-02T18:45:00.002Z2009-12-02T18:47:47.065Z

Reviewed by Adam FinchSonic Boom 6 arrived on the Manchester ska-punk scene in 2002 with a loud and exhilarating bang! Since then they’ve gone from strength to strength and become one of the de facto ska-punk bands of today. Think of the Madchester explosion in the 80s and remove it slightly to the 00’s and with ska and punk, this band will be missed when they’re gone. Unfortunately for us, the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-15384330265672730792009-12-02T18:34:00.001Z2009-12-02T18:36:06.301Z

Reviewed by Rob SellarsThere is something about Los Campesions! being in Newcastle that appears to attract trouble. Of the two times that they have played in the Union before, once there was a mass stage invasion, and the other time the band had to stop mid-song after two charming Geordies came to blows in the middle of the audience. Talking to Gareth, lead vocalist of the band, before the gig,

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-44969597533956470222009-12-02T18:32:00.001Z2009-12-02T18:33:41.094Z

Reviewed by Mike WorthingtonThere’s something incredibly spirited about the way Fightstar play. Charlie Simpson never falters vocally nor fails to go through one song without furiously flicking his mop of hair around. He is clearly rocking out. The same it cannot be said, for the crowd. Although The Union would have proved a fantastic venue for FIghtstar to exhibit their rock based riffs, the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-39142124744368763322009-11-26T12:59:00.001Z2009-11-26T13:05:42.395Z

22.11.09Reviewed by Louise MorrisThere was a sense that we were awaiting a true musical presence and an icon for modern Jazz; comparisons to Billie Holiday have imbued Madeleine Peyroux with reverence and respect, which she managed to maintain and deserve rather than shrinking under such an auspicious reputation. Support was provided by Lesley Roley whose pretty folk songs were given energy with

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-88948743661540668852009-11-21T15:19:00.002Z2009-11-22T15:17:43.759Z

Reviewed by Mike WorthingtonAdmist a flurry of excited cheer and awe, a confident La Roux, brimming with swagger, strides onto the stage. A radiation of quiet confidence and straightfoward concentration seems to echo about her stage presence. She seems perfectly aware she’s not just like any other artist around at the moment. Tonight, she’s going for gold, or rather more adptly, going for the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-91205254735311946982009-11-10T11:12:00.001Z2009-11-10T11:14:02.099Z

Reviewed by Scott McLoughlinI could talk about Passion Pit for hours. Oh wait, no I can’t; that was definitely a lie. Musically Passion Pit were impeccable, bar the technical failure resulting in no music for 20 minutes mid set. Oh, and the fact they were dependent on a backing track on a laptop. Oh yeah! I nearly forgot how intensely boring they were on stage. That aside they were very very good

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-6907246204971426452009-11-10T10:29:00.001Z2009-11-10T10:34:31.068Z

5.11.09Reviewed by Scott McLoughlinI’d like to start with a small disclaimer. I’m not sure my review of this gig is from a representative opinion. I’m a 20 year old bloke. Now imagine the scene. I get to 02 Academy, and enter it to find a crowd which I then assess: the crowd has an average age of 14, and I can see three men. I say men, I mean prepubescent teenagers. As any 20 year old student

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-70178946546696329662009-11-10T10:26:00.000Z2009-11-10T10:28:38.220Z

Indian-Western Classical Fusion3.11.09Reviewed by Hedd ThomasAs a showcase of how Indian and Western music can influence each other, this night was a resounding success. It also, however, showed that when musicians from different backgrounds and disciplines come together their respective styles of performing can be somewhat conflicting.Led by the acclaimed Scottish guitarist Simon Thacker, the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-4950534086063319952009-11-10T10:11:00.001Z2009-11-10T10:16:05.813Z

Reviewed by DJ AshThat little old band from Texas proved on Tuesday night that they ain’t too old to put on a kick ass rock show! Yes America’s very own ZZ Top provided a top night of blues at the Wolverhampton Civic Hall with support from L.A rock band Steel Panther. NSR’s very own rock show “SMASH IT UP!” was luck enough to be invited along to the show. Steel Panther who recently featured on

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-56716557686943263982009-11-02T23:47:00.000Z2009-11-02T23:48:19.796Z

The Chapman FamilyThe Cluny 15/10/09There is always a certain charm to seeing a local band coming good inside the hallowed walls of The Cluny. To see them stepping up from the conveyor belt of standard Northern lad-rock and hopeless bohemian types to take the first rung on the ladder to national recognition, and an assault against the standard Manchester-London axis that dominates the British

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-25202355316908791892009-11-02T11:16:00.000Z2009-11-02T11:17:41.550Z

Simon Thacker and the Nava Rasa Ensemble – Inner OctavesIndian-Western Classical FusionPreviewed by Hedd ThomasConcert date: Tuesday 3rd NovemberVenue: Hall Two, The Sage GatesheadTickets: Student price £7.50, Full price £15Acclaimed Scottish guitarist Simon Thacker leads an exciting new ensemble to explore the meeting of Asian and Western cultures in Inner Octaves at The Sage Gateshead this

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-59848053085451673812009-10-29T18:06:00.001Z2009-10-29T18:08:12.239Z

The Twilight Sad at The Cluny 20th OctoberMark Corcoran-LetticeIt might seem a bit depressing for a young band to be playing exactly the same venues they played two years ago, but their return to the Cluny seems to have brought a (relatively) sunny disposition out of Scotland’s nosiest. Returning to promote their astonishing new record Forget The Night Ahead, they treat a packed-out room to an

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-11944896774040681242009-10-29T17:57:00.001Z2009-10-29T17:58:57.498Z

Everything Everything at the Other RoomsRob SellarsThe Other Rooms has developed a knack in recent times of showcasing new bands that go on to discover the dizzy heights of success, and Everything Everything will be hoping the trend continues. With three major release singles under their belt, and this, their second headline tour, in full swing, things are starting to look promising for the band,

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-9371097418323709582009-10-29T16:53:00.001Z2009-10-29T16:54:31.730Z

John Otway at The Cluny 23rd OctoberJohn TaitWhat do we know about John Otway? Well he was in the charts in the 70’s, along with Barrett, their music being somewhat Punk and somewhat something else. The duo seem to have had a cult following during their active years and tonight I watched, along with a very mixed age audience, a performance of banjo’s, bagpipes and an unfamiliar, electronic

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-70418261073550243262009-10-22T12:13:00.001+01:002009-10-22T12:14:52.502+01:00

Editors (w/ the Joy Formidable) Reviewed by Scott McLoughlinThe Editor’s Newcastle gig was characterised by one of the most surreal crowd atmospheres I have ever experienced. The Joy Formidable began the evening’s entertainments with their hybrid ‘Welsh countryside meets industrial London sound’. They make a huge noise for just a trio. Whilst watching them it became clear that their live

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-43199302919461549842009-10-20T12:13:00.001+01:002009-10-20T12:14:29.394+01:00

Review of Kill It Kid / Sparrow and the WorkshopScott McLoughlinIn depths of Edinburgh and Cabaret Voltaire’s basement venue Kill It Kid move into position on to the stage. You can’t help but notice the youth before you. The average age of Kill It Kid cannot be more than 20. Next thing you know, you are mesmerised, utterly transfixed on Chris Turpin’s Voice. Chris himself, adorned with a black

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-22115853683503283362009-10-20T11:54:00.001+01:002009-10-20T11:56:01.715+01:00

Review of Chase and Status at Digital 11th OctoberMatt HudspithPrevious experiences of drum and bass nights for me have involved standing in room 2 in Fabric (London) surrounded by loads of people drugged up to the eyeballs looking so far from where they actually were it’s scary. Yet last night at Digital (Newcastle), was a completely new experience. I have to admit I had a preconceived opinion

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-39051226788080115592009-10-13T11:40:00.000+01:002009-10-13T11:41:39.526+01:00

Review of Mumford and Sons at The ClunyChristian Allen21st September 2009Gone are the stereotypes of middle aged, grass chewing, check-shirted men finger picking banjos to the delight of a gaggle of flowery dresses. Mumford and Sons are surely the figurehead to a new generation of lively folk acts, armed with beautiful vocal harmonies, talented musicianship and mood-altering, poetic lyrics. This

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-85946827957919552682009-10-09T12:37:00.001+01:002009-10-09T12:37:53.489+01:00

The CribsPeter NishHaving seen The Cribs live a few times before I knew what to expect of the incestuous Wakefield trio, renowned for their intense sets normally delivered for to relieve a pack of desperate fans. But things have changed slightly since I saw them last, with a commercially successful record produced by Alex Kapranos and the recruitment of guitar legend Johnny Marr as a fourth

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-80873246783745055202009-10-06T15:45:00.003+01:002010-03-02T20:25:23.877Z

The Boxer Rebellion gig reviewStephen FerrellThe Boxer Rebellion have always had a loyal fan base but the packed gig at the other rooms shows they are now also building a sizeable one as well. After the collapse of the Poptones label that the band were previously signed to. They chose to go down the route of self-funding and releasing their second album United. As Todd from the band said when I

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-70793160757169468552009-03-24T20:00:00.002Z2009-03-24T20:03:22.032Z

I have to admit, I made way down to The Cluny for the Red Light Company gig with a slight sense of trepidation. After all, there are only so many times you can hear their current single ‘Arts and Crafts’ being played repeatedly on the radio before you start to develop a little bit of resentment towards a band. However, I kept reminding myself that Grammatics, a new band everyone should hear, were

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-56755068728577341472009-03-24T18:52:00.002Z2009-03-24T20:03:58.647Z

Considering the Irish three-piece that is General Fiasco are not even signed yet and have only released two singles so far, the fact they have such an impressive turn out to their first headline tour says a lot about the hype they have received and the dedicated following they have managed to build online. While the crowd seems to average out as a) female and b) between 15 and 19 years old, we

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-84194595149515549152009-03-06T21:24:00.000Z2009-03-06T21:25:23.310Z

You must have caught her play a gig, Beth Jeans Houghton, a young Newcastle singer with a beautiful voice. Her style is the shy girl who likes long eye lashes and a lot of glitter. She has supported artists such as Mystery Jets and Woodpigeon (preformed with them not too long ago). Currently she is playing a lot of gigs in London, but will hopefully bring her stylish shyness back on the stage in

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-74921563363370595332009-03-06T01:51:00.003Z2009-03-06T01:59:43.455Z

Little Comets, you must at least heard off them, lately they have been taking off massively. I guess after they supported Electric Six it all started for these Newcastle boys. Their current single, “One Night In October”, a proper dance tune gets played on MTV2 and all over the radio. On their upcoming tour they have got a Newcastle date, but you might be lucky to catch them at a houseparty.Text

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-85084186193330650722009-02-25T00:50:00.021Z2009-03-24T20:04:23.895Z

Even though it was Valentine’s Day the upstairs of the Academy was rather full, and it wasn’t just single people in need for a change of mind. No wonder, after all Ra Ra Riot are an amazing, must have see band!After missing the 1st support act, I still managed to catch The Answering Machine Cliffer. This band did not blow me away, nor did they annoy me, they were a support band that you don’t

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-76834083138946939222009-02-18T18:12:00.003Z2009-02-18T18:15:18.291Z

The Sage - an ‘international home for music and musical discovery’. This fantastic venue is entirely dedicated to music of all varieties; jazz, country, and even classical. So having a recently popular indie band such as Noah And The Whale to play is quite a statement. It shows that this band can’t be just like any other outfit, dishing out pop song after pop song, there is a lot more to them,

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-33491010276661840582009-02-05T18:36:00.001Z2009-03-24T20:04:40.204Z

Waiting in the queue for a sold out gig, just after having interviewed the headline band Innerpartysystem, I found myself surrounded by a lot of young girls. These girls were all dressed the same way. It was a bit disturbing, as I did not picture ISP to have a fan base of that nature.It seems to have become a fashion for me not to see the first support act. I did not even dare step into the venue

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-41624489250699901722009-02-01T23:03:00.000Z2009-02-12T23:05:39.787Z

Arriving a little late to the gig, due to rowdy football fans causing riot’s on the streets of Newcastle, Florence and the Machine are already in full swing. It’s easy to tell this is not your classical indie act it’s obvious from the second you see the stage, not a guitar insight, instead a harp and a stage set-up that is almost theatrical. From Florence’s quirky clothes to her cappella voice

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-90259959353606885482008-12-03T22:44:00.000Z2009-02-15T22:51:56.886Z

On the 3rd of December 2008, Kate Agerskow came back and played another exclusive gig for NSR in the Green Room. All photos by Solveig Werner.

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-49381761054177692232008-11-30T22:53:00.000Z2009-02-12T22:54:59.575Z

Catapulted with cataclysmic force into the British mainstream musical consciousness, the four piece indie pop phenomenon that is Scouting For Girls are the ones responsible for men and women of all ages claiming ‘Elvis aint dead’, ‘she’s so lovely’ and ‘every time we meet, I skip a heartbeat’. Love or loathe them, it’s undeniable that these London lads have an ear for an infectiously catchy

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-65072514903727032152008-11-30T22:47:00.000Z2009-02-12T22:52:59.925Z

From the moment the lights go out, Carling Academy Newcastle is filled with excitement. Rancid always know how to entertain a crowd and tonight is no different. Opening song 'Radio', a noted fan-favourite, really sets the tone for the evening; whether the songs are fast or slow the band are completely captivating.Tim Armstrong is fully connected with the audience, often sitting at the front of

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-9760257592345495102008-11-27T22:55:00.000Z2009-02-12T22:56:40.378Z

With a line-up like this - it’s no wonder I trotted down early to the Academy, my aim – to soak up as much of this evening as possible. On meeting my fellow Yorkshire-man-friend this was bound to be a night of beer-guzzling, Pigeon-chanting and general obnoxiousness, and I wasn’t to be disappointed.Red Light Company opened the night with their brand of chilled-out tunes, sloshing about somewhere

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-16507783180632562912008-11-26T22:35:00.000Z2009-02-15T22:43:06.735Z

On the 26th of November 2008, Our Imaginary Friends played an exclusive gig for NSR in the Green Room. All photos by Solveig Werner.

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-25953220556585099542008-11-22T22:57:00.000Z2009-02-14T13:29:04.297Z

Short but sweet? Try short but simply spectacular. This 25 minute gig managed to rock the foundations of the Dog and Parrot in a short period of time providing mesmerising lyrics, powerful guitar solos and practically perfect drum structure. The Valkarys started their tour in Edinburgh with their new song Candy Girl, which already has 12000 hits on MySpace music. Even though they only had a small

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-57625696494456341482008-11-18T22:25:00.000Z2009-02-15T22:41:20.818Z

On the 18th of November 2008, Kate Agerskow played an exclusive gig for NSR in the Green Room. All photos by Solveig Werner.

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-61044316997758522472008-11-16T21:22:00.000Z2009-02-15T18:47:47.602Z

The majority of reviews you’ll read about this band will no doubt mention their performance at SXSW this year. But the mark of a band is to build on hype, as hundreds of failed ‘next big things’ will testify. On a cold Sunday evening, Newcastle is a far cry from White Denim’s home of Austin, Texas. Support act, Six Nation State warm the arriving crowd with a mix of punk and coral-like balladry

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-19930861241734120082008-11-10T21:33:00.000Z2009-02-12T21:40:22.486Z

Initially, Newcastle University Students' Union seems like an odd choice of venue for this Aylesbury Progressive rock band. The majority of the band's fans in attendance tonight are not students; instead the crowd is made up primarily of middle-aged adults.When you take a glance at the stage, the first thing that strikes you is the sheer amount of equipment Marillion have set up. The stage has

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-75717607304954173762008-11-09T22:59:00.000Z2009-02-12T23:02:26.651Z

At 8:15pm a tall, lanky V.V Brown stepped on stage, in very high wasted tartan trousers, and began clapping a complicated rhythm, into the microphone. The audience were slightly bemused at first, but quickly got into the swing of things and joined in. V.V was great at addressing the crowd, and saying who she was and what the songs were about, and even though many in the audience weren’t there to

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-34485997290857746342008-11-09T22:41:00.000Z2009-02-12T22:46:07.046Z

With a few notable exceptions, pop music in the 80s was rubbish, wasn’t it? A Flock Of Seagulls feasting off the corpses of bloated pop bands fuelled by the attitudes of Thatcherism only to be swept away in a blizzard of cocaine and hedonism. Appropriate then, that Neon Neon have appropriated sounds so synonymous with a time so rich in distended self-indulgence to tell the tumultuous story of

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-24293434989362116122008-11-09T21:27:00.000Z2009-02-12T21:41:39.963Z

Ida Maria the Norwegian singer-songwriter, is probably best known for her chick rock song, “Better When your Naked”, which many may dismiss for being too superficial and a bit of a cliché. Those who do, are missing out big time, for this is an artist out of the ordinary.It wasn’t until I heard “Oh My God” that I really began to like Ida Maria.The song is so powerful, you can just feel her

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-48018820297528261892008-11-08T21:34:00.000Z2009-02-12T21:36:30.289Z

This evening the arena is crammed with all the expected bunny-eared, tutu-clad teeny-boppers, the younger McFly fans with their mummies, plus a surprising number of 20-something males getting w**kered at the bar...First up is Avenue. Think no instruments, think backing tracks, think dance routines, think Five meets some Xfactor reject, think oh dear...Delivering more the sort of thing I was

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-59772248901377627912008-11-05T22:18:00.000Z2009-02-15T22:25:43.026Z

On the 5th of November 2008, Squares played an exclusive gig for NSR in the Green Room. All photos by Solveig Werner.

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-24999574328840537382008-11-03T21:25:00.000Z2009-02-12T21:57:50.992Z

As we arrived the Other Rooms were filled with the psychedelic drone-rock of support band The Big Pink, atmospheric but no stage presence what so ever. We waited while the stage was strewn with hanging bird cages and the drum-kit with flowers. Flo came bursting on, hyperactive and held the crowd hypnotized by her piercingly powerful voice. She whirled around with feral energy, banging on drums

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-47114696449209910522008-10-31T20:20:00.000Z2009-02-12T21:59:09.708Z

White Lies are currently riding a wave of anticipation for their debut album, but for now fans have to make do with the release of their new single ‘Death’. Consequently a headline tour couldn’t come at a better time for the band. A close to sold out crowd are spoilt for up and coming alternative bands however as White Lies are joined by Lemington band Post War Years and female fronted 3-piece

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-32420928795028079402008-10-27T14:36:00.000Z2009-02-12T22:28:47.867Z

Having never seen a gig at city hall I wasn’t really sure what to except, I felt it could be a bit too sophisticated and large scale for a band doing their first U.K. tour. But then when you have a collaboration of two brilliant musical minds like Alex Turner and Miles Kane and when the 16 piece orchestra begin to play, I realise they have in fact picked the perfect venue.I can tell this isn’t

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-82703581798923691852008-10-23T20:55:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:29:25.531Z

The average age of the people attending this gig must have been the 14 year-old girl. Okay I know that “girl” is not something that defines an age group, but in a way it does. Well there were a couple of middle-aged women present (a surprising number). I believe that was mostly thanks to the main act One Night Only. Well Little Comets are a very nice eye candy as well.The first band to take the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-8268170676284645542008-10-21T16:38:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:31:19.425Z

I was lucky enough to arrive at The Basement, just as the sextet got on stage, to start their sound checks. They began playing randomly, and within seconds, you could feel their energy filling the venue. Suddenly the sound check had turned into Eminem’s “Loose Yourself”, and all the crew as well as the band got into their best gangster mode. The atmosphere was relaxed, laidback but with a hint of

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-65297283104006722782008-10-21T15:37:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:32:04.915Z

Even though Belgian band Das Pop was the support act for Alphabeat that night, they got a really good reception from the crowd. I’ve known about this band for a long time, and I was surprised to see that they’re playing so many relatively large gigs overseas now. It was obvious that most people came just to see Alphabeat that night, ranging from old people reliving their youth to young children,

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-72587114432711137432008-10-19T19:58:00.000+01:002009-02-20T23:06:10.695Z

The Boss Sounds Festival is the UK’s biggest reggae festival so it is a must play event for any rising star of reggae, especially one promoting a new single. Natty is that man. When he is on stage dancing with his acoustic guitar and dreadlocks flailing it is easy to see why he some are hailing him as the new Bob Marley. Personally, I wouldn’t agree with this and I’m fairly sure Natty wouldn’t

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-89019078641809475742008-10-15T21:52:00.000+01:002009-02-15T22:44:00.906Z

On the 15th of October 2008, The Maddisons played an exclusive gig for NSR in the Green Room. All photos by Solveig Werner.

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-41437683151596297062008-10-15T21:19:00.000+01:002009-02-15T21:51:51.098Z

Four nervous-looking school boys arrive at the bar (on time), absently arranging their set, eyes darting around the room. As they take over the floor, the Southampton quartet come face to face with an almost sold-out crowd; close enough to knock a few drinks right out of their hands. Their set kicks off with a distinctive take on classic indie guitar riffs and a heavy thrashing at the drums, Hit

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-11427974413583638972008-10-15T19:57:00.000+01:002009-02-20T23:07:01.940Z

The Others Rooms has to get the award for the most clichéd gig venue in Newcastle. Based in the Centre of Life, its part of the ‘Digital Super-Club’, which isn’t a Super-club at all. Referencing it on the dictionary says its ‘Higher in Quality’. Doesn’t that mean that every posh club is one? Or is it a title branched out for places that believe that just because they have a ‘mixture’ of music

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-54966638763673766712008-10-14T20:50:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:34:55.534Z

My first encounter with Gabriella Cilmi, was after watching an advert for the new upside down Rexona deodorant, featuring Gabriella’s hit single Sweet About Me. I’m sure the reason for the advertisers choosing this song was the line “the world’s a better place when it’s upside down” although this does not feature in the ad. However it was not just her lyrics that made the song appeal to me, but

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-2720880696514584592008-10-12T21:00:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:37:02.207Z

Sunday evenings at the Cluny are always more than a pleasurable experience, especially when combined with good company, good food from the Cluny’s kitchen, a pint of Budvar, and some live music. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the bands playing, all I had heard was that it was jazz, which I have rather mixed feelings towards. Good old Dave Brubeck and the likes, I really enjoy, ultra modern

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-60500518056113435702008-10-09T20:36:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:37:54.312Z

Upon entering the Basement, I am trembling with a nervous excitement at the chance to see if an this Mercury-nominated band’s live show pays a suitable tribute to the glowing nature of their reviews for third LP ‘Do You Like Rock Music’? After all, said album (in addition to the two preceding ones) boasts beautiful, heart-wrenching anthems, designed by the band themselves to ‘challenge the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-348442179898616692008-10-07T21:14:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:38:52.661Z

Hall 2 at the Sage is probably my favourite venue in Newcastle; it’s a purpose built intimate venue where the artist can get really close to their audience, it has the feel of a dingy pub without having the smell or the residue from the previous evenings festivities. This, though, was probably the weirdest and most surreal gig that I’ve ever been to.Roots Manuva, to give you some background, is

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-56898988765815049732008-10-04T21:18:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:39:22.430Z

Having previously seen local lads The Chevrolites play in Edinburgh simply by chance... I was eager to check them out in their hometown. So I scampered on down to The Cluny where the boys scuttled onto the stage. Getting straight down to business with Came Here To Fight I felt my toes tapping and the alcohol flowing. Think Milburn, think Arctic Monkeys, these influences are pretty obvious;

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-24178216348132319372008-10-01T21:16:00.000+01:002009-02-12T22:40:43.107Z

For the third time in my life I attended a gig by the Welsh band The Automatic. It was in fact the second time in less than two weeks. I had not in anyway planned to go to this gig, but you can’t always plan how life works out for you. After having interviewed Frost I was asked if I would like to go to the gig later that night.I missed the opening act Operahouse, and that when they were a band

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-80122155948811289272008-09-30T15:33:00.000+01:002009-02-12T21:57:01.150Z

The End Bar Newcastle is the small bands dream: dark, dingy and cosy. The small corner pub was surprisingly packed with around 100 people ready to listen to the local boys’ second album, entitled ‘Palomino’. Sound Ex have toured with The Datsuns, and the Mooney Suzuki, and their influences were easy to see on their music. The support band came on the stage first though, but just a general hint

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-64437929500420147792008-09-26T03:02:00.000+01:002009-02-14T03:03:13.477Z

This year’s freshers’ second gig was the London band The Hoosiers supported by two local acts. After having the treat of interviewing the lovely lads of the Hoosiers my friends and I settled far away from the freshers in a quiet room of the union close to the basement. We missed the first of the two support bands, which is of course unfortunate, but let our ears be virgin to the sound of Detroit

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-59183458821026944912008-09-18T15:32:00.000+01:002009-02-12T21:56:02.907Z

Arriving a bit late at the gig, I almost missed the whole of the first act that was on, the solo artist Francis Conway. I made it just in time to hear the last two song of his acoustic set. They were absolutely amazing, and both were rather long so I can say I got a good picture of what Francis Conway sounds like.Beth Jeans Houghton was up next. Last time I saw her live she was performing on her

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-14566352627075153112008-09-17T15:34:00.000+01:002009-02-12T21:55:22.332Z

Back in Newcastle for three days I had my first proper night out at the Cluny. The American band The Little Ones were playing supported by local acts Spies in Limbo, and New Vinyls.First up it was the New Vinyls, over the summer this band has worked on a lot of new songs. I must say that they were really good. They are catchy and very different one from the other. For the song Polytechnic the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-61961242598130952542008-06-11T15:29:00.000+01:002009-02-14T03:24:32.596Z

No they are not from Japan, they are from Canada, you should know this if you have been on wikipedia and have read about this band. Tokyo Police Club is a band with four rather young members. Three are 21 and one is 23, and they make music that is worth going down in rock history.For me this gig in Newcastle was the second time that I have seen them. I must say Tokyo Police Club or TPC have

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-12095109196759665312008-05-30T15:26:00.000+01:002009-02-12T21:52:52.648Z

Salford duo, The Ting Tings have found themselves at the top of various ‘ones to watch out for in 2008’ tip lists. Whilst this obviously means generating a lot of hype this can also be a double edge sword as it means people who do turn up to your gigs will be expecting something special. Their sound is catchy, chart friendly indie-pop with much of the music appearing out of the ether via the

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-5542343836275646122008-05-21T15:24:00.001+01:002009-03-24T20:04:57.991Z

Having kept quiet for a while Pull Tiger Tail decided to go on a full UK tour right in the middle of exam time. It was announced shortly before it kicked off, the late notice is most likely the explanation for a mere 103 tickets being sold in advance. This London band had not been on tour for a while, and does not seem to have spend that much time in the studio either as the planned album still

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-50242470189305940942008-04-19T15:21:00.000+01:002009-02-15T18:54:13.992Z

If someone says ‘Mystery Jets’ I say “Arrrggggghhhhhghghgh!!!!!” - this is a good reaction, by the way. I can safely say I had been looking forward to this gig for exactly a million years. One of my favourite bands in one of my favourite venues: YUM. And yummy it was, this mouth-watering evening started off with a nibbler from local lady Beth Jeans Houghton, think Regina Spektor with a dash of

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-18905874096316003562008-04-05T15:20:00.000+01:002009-02-12T21:51:11.722Z

Shortly after entering the Academy, at the excruciatingly early (in gig terms) time of 7.10pm, I find myself bombarded with the howling blues-rock of San Francisco’s Two Gallants. Comprised of guitarist and vocalist Adam, and rather feral-looking drummer Tyson, they are undoubtedly one of the most brilliant support acts I have seen for months, causing an instant, and surprisingly noisy, impact

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2668320272886657545.post-78926738958631423642008-03-02T15:16:00.000Z2009-02-12T21:50:18.888Z

One night I did not know what to do with myself and as my previous plans had all evaporated I decided to go to the Futureheads gig. Not being a big Futureheads fan I still enjoyed myself well and truly dancing to the catch tunes. As I am writing this a bit late or well very late I have to rake through my memory in order to reconstruct the gig. This Sunderland band knows exactly how to deal with

NSR Musichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14573462535162258059noreply@blogger.com0