Gan On darling and presenter of Spark FM’s Local Music Show, Lucy Shields gives us her definitive guide to the unmissable live shows happening in Sunderland this month.
Juliet’s Not Dead – Independent – 7/2
After just coming off an extensive UK tour, Juliet’s Not Dead are kicking off the new year with a brand new album, and alongside that a weekend-long sesh of gigs, even venturing out of the North East.
They are taking their high-energy, inimitable performance to Independent. ‘The World is Ours’ is JND’s highly anticipated debut LP and after pairing with Grammy nominated producer Romesh Dodangoda, the album is set to stun the local rock scene. The Independent stage is the perfect setting for the ‘Thrillseekers’ to unleash their infectious melodies and soaring riffs.
Ellen Moss – The Bunker – 8/2
Following the release of their album ‘Part 1: Love’ late last year, hazy, ambient, alternative punk band Ellen Moss are set to unleash their fusion of musical textures on to Stockton Road.
With their self-proclaimed ‘washing machine’ sounding tunes and their ethereal, yet gritty atmosphere the bands unforgettable soundscapes are set to bring a rollercoaster of rock and maybe even some roll along with it.
Urban Times – The Bunker – 15/2
Catchy guitar, charismatic vocals and punchy drums are all well desired characteristics for an indie band, and Urban Times have it all. By channelling the effortless cool of Alex Turner, and providing the intense, mesmeric riffage of John Squire, the lads manage to hone in on these skills and fuse it with ingenuity to create the ultimate alt-rock experience.
With anthems set to drag you to the dancefloor, have your Adidas Sambas and Pretty Green jackets at the ready.
Bug Club – Pop Recs – 20/2
Hailing from Caldicot in South Wales, The Bug Club are set to release their broodingly self aware, inimitable, indie-punk-rock to Pop Recs. The rockers are riding high after being played three times by Iggy Pop on Radio 1, and now are ready to win the hearts of the North East.
Turning mundane everyday topics into danceable, vibrant melodies, their humorous depictions of life complimented by witty lyricism will charm the population of Sunderland. Prepare to be entertained, and, of course, for some quality pints at The Bridge Hotel Vaults over the road.
Slate Label – Independent – 22/2
2024 was the year of slate label. From releasing their first single,’Before We Die’ in May to being the winners of the Roulette Festival Battle of the Bands, to now being nominated for Best Newcomer at the Spark Local Music Show awards, they feel ready to take on Independent, and with accomplices (Red Remedy and more TBA).
Slate Label’s high-energy performance and unique pairing of powerful vocals with even more powerful, booming instrumentals create a fun and lively environment that can only be described as, “ready to be moshed to”. Their return will be the biggest headline to date for the band and certainly not one to miss.
