It’s undeniable that Leeds has one of the best music scenes in the country, hosting a plethora of quality bands and energising an inspiring DIY culture. LSR’s Head of Music James Ward highlights the city’s most exciting up-and-coming bands.
Hookworms
The 2nd and 3rd of March are two of the most exciting dates of 2018. Why? Hookworms are taking over The Brudenell “with friends”. These guys have been in the thick of the Leeds scene since their formation, and their recent brief hiatus has prepared them for a big one this year. Their third album Microshift comes out on the 2nd of Feburary, and if the whole album is on the level of the anthemic Negative Space, then Hookworms are in exactly the right place to influence the soundscape of Leeds.
Jellyskin
Jellyskin have come a long way in the last year; moving away from their shoegaze roots and towards a heavier sound, the duo are moving forwards. Securing a slot in Liverpool supporting Yassassin at the end of Febuary, Zia and Will are really ones to watch over the summer.
Fizzy Blood
Fizzy Blood are at ‘the awkward teenager stage’ of their development; they’re ready to leave home, perhaps not big enough to make it in the big bad world just yet but have all the confidence and swagger they need to say “F*ck you mom (Leeds) we’re going anyway!”. Off the back of a tour with Dinosaur Pile Up, the Leeds lads are currently on tour with Spring King. With no instinct to rest, they’ll embark on a headline tour in Feburary, residing at Headrow House on the 24th of February. A must if you have even looked at a mosh and thought ‘yeah why not.’
The Golden Age Of TV
New single ‘Beast’ by The Golden Age Of TV was a great start to 2018. Already getting traction on RadioX, this single is one that you will be hearing on the dancefloors of all your favourite Indie discos by the end of the year. Merging the best of Leeds indie talent, this art-rock quintet will be opening for Marsicans at Church in March. Bea and the boys warmly invite you to dance with them at with every song they play and every song they release, and it’s highly recommended you accept their invitation.
Team Picture
Timothy and the Team are in the studio cooking up new tunes that will delight and surprise. Team Picture have a sound that has been described as ‘a tiger trapped in a freight train’, with kraut-rock and shoegaze influences. ‘The Katman’ experience at the Hyde Park Book Club was something to behold. Starting the new year right with a gig at London’s Old Blue Last as part of DIYs Hello 2018 gigs, it’s essential for more people to hear their music.
Necktr
Exploding in 2017, Necktr are one of those bands that you can’t help but rave about at every opportunity. They’ve already smashed the legendary Boileroom in Guildford and the Sebright Arms in London this year, meaning that this nine-piece jazz-afrobeat-hip-hop fusion band of LCOM students are ready to take their party across the country and bring joy to the people.
Dead Naked Hippies
Quite simply some of the best performers out there. Vocalist Lucy takes control of the stage and captivates a crowd like no one else in Leeds right now. Their blistering self-titled debut EP came out in September and is essential listening.
Heir
It’s almost impossible to dislike this band. These guys are pop music at its best. Their infectious hooks are so accessible that will be hard pressed to find someone who won’t start tapping their toes, especially along to ‘I’ll Pick You Up’. Already playing legendary venues like the Troubadour and Old Blue Last, these guys bring joy to the party wherever they go.
Local Leeds On the Radar Playlist
James Ward