Tag Archives: live music

MAQUINA @ Golden Lion, Todmorden. 17th May 2026.

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Sometimes, you go to a gig, and you know you have truly witnessed something very special. Something that in months and in many years to come, you will still be talking about it. It may end up being a reference point for how you want every gig to make you feel or just how out of this world it is. Gigs like that are so special and don’t happen all too often.

On Sunday I went to Todmorden to see MAQUINA at The Golden Lion. In a way, the venue upstairs reminded me of the Shacklewell Arms. It had that same feeling to it, that feeling if knowing that most gigs that happen here turn out to be pretty special.

MAQUINA’s first UK tour was only last year, and they played the YES Basement in Manchester which I am pretty sure would have been one of the best venues to contain their huge sound. They’ll be playing the Pink Room and beyond next time for sure but on Sunday just gone, it was in an upstairs room in a pub in Todmorden. I honestly had no clue on what to expect. Religiously listening to them did not prepare me nor did watching previous live performances on YouTube. The experience was always going to be different but brilliant. I’ve loved the band for bloody ages and to see them play a tiny venue that I don’t even think 100 people were in, was something to really treasure. It was definitely up there being one of the loudest shows I’ve been to in a while, and I was just in awe of the band.

They were on stage for around an hour, but it went by so fast. I could have watched them for another 3 hours (okay so they don’t have enough songs but still!) It was one of the most enthralling gigs I’ve been to. I had no idea where to look. I was right in front of João, and I’m pretty sure some of his sweat landed on my head and in my eye at various points of the night, but I didn’t mind at all. Signs of a great show! Halison sang every word and beat the shit out of his drumkit solidly, and never more in my life have I ever wanted to be a drummer- or to be as cool as these 3. José is THE slickest bassist around. You won’t find anyone better out there. I think it was during Body Control where Halison climbed on his kit, managed to reach to the ceiling of the venue and move his body that would make the most flexible gymnast jealous. This song is something else live, and the way they perform it just makes you become even more obsessed with it.

Pretty much everyone in this sweaty room was moving in ways they’ve never moved at a show before, and MAQUINA give you the freedom to do exactly that. I didn’t stand still for this one. The only thing that ruined it was the person stood behind me trying to film everything and had his phone above my head a stupid amount of time throughout (just move, don’t be an idiot!) But aside from other people, this was one of the best gigs I’ve been to this year. MAQUINA are a band that you just have to see live, and with their new record coming out in July, something tells me that their live shows are going to be even more in demand. There is something really special about their energy and live performances. You can really tell that they love what they do, and that love is strong between them all also.

The band rip through their set, and it is a joy. No, it is an HONOUR to watch them. You cannot help being in awe of them and wish you were in a band as cool as this. The noise they make together is just divine, and you feel like you are part of something truly out of this world. You feel like you are elsewhere when you listen to them, and that’s one of the best feelings you can get from a band both on record and live. I really cannot wait for the record to come out in the summer- I’m pretty sure I will play it to death! Hearing songs like Agony, Pressure/Pleasure live was just the coolest, and I know it’s so typical but Body Control live is just everything you could want. I never want that song to end at the best of times, but my god when you witness it live it absolutely changes how you hear it. Denial was also up there as being one of the killer moments of the set. MAQUINA are a band that once you see them live, you cannot help but want to see them all the time.

There are so many venues in Manchester that they easily could have played but you know, The Golden Lion was the perfect place for them on Sunday. Something tells me they won’t be playing pubs for much longer.

Here’s a few photos I managed to take:

PINS @ Bootleg Social, Blackpool. 15th May 2026.

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I realised last night that after seeing PINS play a hell of a lot of times, I’ve never seen them play in our home city of Manchester. It’ll happen one day, and when it does it will be bloody beautiful. Instead, it was a trip last night to the seaside to see them play the Bootleg Social in Blackpool. This is a brilliant venue, and you can really tell it is such a vital part of Blackpool and it’s very easy to see why. You get a really community feel the second you step in, and you never want to leave. An incredible venue.

The band take to the stage at 9pm and start with Baby Bhangs. 10 years on, and it still feels like you’re hearing it for the first time. What I loved about this set is that we got a mix from every record. Baby Bhangs is the perfect way to open the set, and it sets the tone perfectly. Family of the band were in the crowd last night, and of course ended up on stage for Girls Like Us. Faith tried to get us up there, but I was way too shy. We compromised by me holding her mic until she got back onto the stage. I could have had my real moment there to belt out a number but 1- I cannot sing and 2- I cannot sing. When Faith said back to the band, “They don’t want to come up!” Lois replied with the wonderful, “We’ll take it to them!” And oh boy they did! I’ve seen PINS play many times with different members, but I can honestly say that this lineup of PINS is an absolute dream to watch. They play so well together, and you can really really feel the love on the stage, and it fall perfectly into the laps of the crowd.

I think I’ve said it every single time I’ve written about their shows, but you will not find anyone love being on stage as much as Lois. The way she bounces around on the stage and sings every word into the crowd even when it isn’t her part is adorable, and I think that is one of the many reasons as to why this band are so easy to love and quite clearly  go see every show you can wherever you can! I’ll be holding out for a Manchester show for now!

The setlist was a slice of heaven and then some! For me, it was the surprise of hearing All Hail live. I didn’t expect it to make an appearance and to finally see it live was insane! Trouble is ALWAYS a dream to see live as is Too Little, Too Late- which I think I may have hurt my throating singing along to! Dazed By You will ALWAYS own a piece of my heart, and getting to sing along to this with the person I love the most stood next to me meant a lot. It’s the most perfect, dreamy song.

On the drive home, I said it should be a crime how underrated and how underappreciated PINS are. They are one of the best bands to not only have come from Manchester, but in general. I just absolutely adore them. They’re one of those bands that you don’t get tired of listening to or seeing live. There’s a handful of bands I love that I would happily see play live every night, and PINS are easily in that list. Top 3 for sure! There’s something really special about seeing a band play who you can tell love each other and being on stage together, it’s truly inspiring stuff. I’ve probably said it before, but I really hope some young kid sees PINS play or hears their music and is inspired to make their own noise too. They have that about them, and that is something to be treasured.

Every song on the setlist deserved its place from Serve The Rich to Young Girls to If Only. I will say that If Only is a song that over time, I’ve felt more connected to. The lyrics are so pure and hit you right in the heart. Much like the delicate Got It Bad. The love in the songs and the observations are another reason as to why PINS will always own a piece of my heart. I just love them, and I am so happy that they are still out there touring. They deserve to sell out every venue they play and are a band that you’ve just GOT to see live.

I was in my own world last night as I watched them play. Nothing mattered outside of that room, and that’s how live music should be. PINS play with this effortlessly slick and cool energy, and even though I’m older than them- when I grow up, I want to be as cool as PINS.

PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS PIGS + MERYL STREET @ The Crescent, York 14th May 2026.

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On Thursday night, I saw Pigsx7 play one of their finest shows in one of the best venues I’ve been to. There is no denying that The Crescent is one of the most important venues not just in York but in the country. It has everything you could want and enough space to move your body in a questionable fashion without hitting anyone by accident. Before I go into how amazing Pigsx7’s set was- I have to tell you about the support act; Meryl Streek. Meryl Streek is a crucial artist and is someone that HAS to be heard. He’s also proof that you must ALWAYS watch the support act if you are there on time.

A few weeks ago, Meryl Streek played on the Isle of Man and two of the most important (and best) bands from the IOM supported him- Half Naked Headline and Croteau. At the end of the night, I thanked him for playing there and for having those two bands support. Both bands are destined for greatness and deserve the world, and we spoke a little bit about how odd the Island is but also how important it is to have people like him play there. Not only was his set incredibly moving, but as a person, you can absolutely tell that he cares a hell of a lot about those around him, what he’s creating and being heard. He’s a credit to the music industry, and although the crowd seemed a bit reserved for his set- for some, the words truly hit home. Songs like Paddy (this broke me), Kelly and of course Death To The Landlord were so moving to hear and the way he puts his all into his performances is truly captivating. You leave feeling like a different person and also, angrier at the world. He’s a real inspiration and this definitely won’t be the last time I see him live. Music should always move you in any way, and I think if you see his performances and you don’t feel more rage at the world then you’re probably part of the problem.

Pigsx7 play 12 songs. No encores. No prisoners. No timewasting. No love for Download Festival. They limber up during the opener The Wyrm and you know you’re about to witness over an hour of chaos, magic, and the inability to hear for a few hours after. At their previous shows I’ve been to, I’ve always stood near the back but this time- the front (or a row behind from the front.) Not too close to the speakers but close enough to know that I would have a ringing in my ears for a few hours at the end. Bliss. I knew the show would be magical, but when you see a band, you love play in a venue that’s as special as this- it makes it something else. The setlist is perfect (although I still want to hear their cover of Hot Stuff live) and although 12 songs isn’t enough when it’s a band you adore with all you have- those 12 songs are delivered in a way that transcends how you hear them on record. Pigsx7 are my gym band, and their music has enabled me to lift heavier than I thought was possible but they’re a band that lyrically get me right in the gut. There is something so special about this band, and you know what? Fuck Download Festival for ignoring greatness for 16 years in a row. However, as the band did mention- playing venues like The Crescent means a lot more. It’ll always mean more.

As always, Matt introduces the band as 80s/90s Wrestlers but also mixes it up with 80s/90s Pop Stars too. We were joined by not only Rick Flair but also Rick Astley on a Thursday. In York. How lucky were we!? When you watch a band like Pigsx7 you have no idea where to look because every single one of them on stage is the best at what they do, each of them are the heartbeat of the band. Each of them plays with this urgency. The way Matt moves on stage is similar to how my cat psyches herself up to chase her little draft excluder toy. Focussing and moving in a way that shows she isn’t someone to be messed with. She then plays for 10 minutes and has a lie down. Matt doesn’t do this, none of them do. They all stay firmly focussed on stage and play as if their lives depend on it. Their sound is distinctive and vital. They aren’t just a great band on record, but live they take it to a different level- and they cannot be touched. They blitz through the set, and they play 4 songs in a row with no break (I cannot remember which 4 they were but at the end I did think they all needed a little rest because it was so intense in the best way.) Adam was able to go for a piss whilst Headbanger of the Evening was awarded so that’s always good!

The setlist was a dream, and the venue was perfect for them. I’ve seen them play the Ritz in Manchester and also New Century Hall but there is something really special about seeing them in a venue like this to really make you appreciate their sound even more. Stitches into GNT then into World Crust is just chef’s kiss. Collider into Toecurler? A DREAM! Was it the best I’ve seen them? Yes. Will this go down as one of my favourite gigs I’ve ever been to? Hell yes.

BRUISE CONTROL: Record Release Shows 2026

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ALL ABOARD THE BRUISE CRUISE!!!!

Where do I even begin writing about the Bruise Control record release shows? Over the weekend they played Leeds, Liverpool, and Manchester. I went to two out of three. VERY Nearly did them all but didn’t.

The first show was at Crash Records in Leeds on Saturday just gone. About 15 of us (maybe less) were cramped in this excellent record shop. How on earth could a place so small contain the sound of Bruise Control? Well, to be fair it didn’t. Jim marched up and down the shop, he even opened the front door and sang to the good people of Leeds. When I say sing, he absolutely screamed at them, and it was beautiful. Maybe he scared someone at the bus stop with their shopping or maybe, they became their new favourite band. Let’s go with the latter because there is nowt scary about the Bruisers! There was a very slight incident where a beer was spilt on the floor and Jim nearly blew the place up (total exaggeration but go with it.) In the end, Jim did most of the set at the back of the shop whilst stood on the counter. He couldn’t cause any mischief up there (he absolutely could and he did, and this is why we LOVE Bruise Control.) At the end I told him it was like the NPR Tiny Desk Concerts gone wild. Hopefully, the owners at Crash Records have forgiven these angels. You don’t book a band like Bruise Control and expect nothing rowdy to happen. It was such a joy to see them play to such a small crowd, and it’ll definitely be the last time they play to such a small number of people because they deserve to be selling out every stage possible. A sound so big cannot be contained and neither can their energy. The way they are with each other is just gorgeous too. I’ve never seen a band with such a bond with each other and such love for everyone around them. Their stage presence is next level, and that’s the Manchester charm through and through.

Now we move onto Monday nights show. The band played the Basement at YES. It holds around 60 people give or take. I’ve never been to this part of YES before and it pretty much became my favourite venue. A real dive bar with such a stunning atmosphere. My favourite venue is the Shacklewell Arms, and I miss that place so much, and for the past 8 years of being in Manchester, I’ve been trying to find a venue that I hold that dearly. The Basement at YES does this and more. I could happily be there every night!

The band are on stage at 8 and are done by 8.45. We’re home by half 9. This is BLISS. There is no better way to spend a Monday night than seeing the band you absolutely adore rip apart a venue. The crowd were a dream too, and honestly, Bruise Control fans are pretty much the kindest and best people you’ll ever meet. What I love about Bruise Control shows is that, although they are beyond rowdy and loud- you will feel so safe there. The world outside doesn’t matter at all, and sometimes (most of the time) we need that. We need that safe space and to just let it all out. Jim sprinting into the crowd a couple of times was also a highlight! He cannot be contained- let him be free!

Niall’s dad was at the show, and I remember seeing the band support Amyl And The Sniffers at the Albert Hall in 2022- it felt like their show, and I remember Jim’s mum (I think) on the balcony a row in front of me singing along. It was so beautiful. You can’t help but be proud of this band. They are everything Punk should be. They are everything a community should be. Writing about them and getting to share how much I love them brings me so much joy. And I hope someone out there who may not have heard of them before, goes and listens to them and falls in love with them like I did back in 2022.

The new songs are INSANE live, and of all the times I’ve seen them- the show on Monday was IT. I thought their show at SOUP last year was it, and nothing could top it. But this was something else. 60 of us in a dark basement on Monday night- the ideal setting for the best band around.

They all truly shone at this show. Tommy is an INSANE drummer, Niall is an unreal guitarist, Jim is THE best frontman around and Ruby makes you wish you could be as cool as her; she makes playing bass look so effortlessly easy. They’re all exceptional at what they do, and they are easily one of the few bands I could watch play every night and just never ever get tired. My ears may hate me, but who cares!?

UP THE BRUISERS!

NOSO @ Band On The Wall, Manchester. 19th February 2026.

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Nearly 3 years ago (March 2023) I saw NoSo play their first ever Manchester show at Yes. Last night, they played Band On The Wall and let me tell you, THAT was some experience.

It’s pretty obvious how much I adore NoSo’s music and the way they capture every emotion possible. What leaves me in awe even more so, is how Baek and his band just take the songs to the next level in the live setting. There is only one flaw to a NoSo show- they aren’t long enough. I know we’ve only got 2 records but play them on repeat a few times ha! But in all seriousness, it’s not just the beautiful tone to Baek’s voice, it’s the way they play guitar. I think I spent most of the set just watching them play the guitar and not taking everything fully in. Criminally underrated guitar player and certain songs definitely show you how wonderful they are. I could watch Baek play Sugar and I Feel You ALL day.

The set is a beautiful mix of songs from Stay Proud Of Me and When Are You Leaving? During the set I text my mum to tell her I was out, and I told her what show I was at and she replied with that she had just listened to Nara and loved it. NoSo is for everyone- especially the mums! It was really beautiful to see such a lovely mix of people in the crowd, and in front of me were a (I think a couple) and one of them just danced all the way through and was having the time of their life. That’s what it’s about, and when you can see how much it means to other people and you can see it means the world to them like it means the world to you- you kind of have some hope that maybe it will all be okay.

Baek has a gentle and shy presence on stage and truly lets the music do all the talking. The way Baek and their band play their hearts out and, in a way, mend yours, is just a joy to watch. If I could be at a NoSo show every night I’d be happy and I’d probably be super calm too! There are many highlights of the set but for me it was Suburbia and Let It Die. Let It Die is a sheer euphoric moment from the new record, and I just knew it’d be something really special live. When you see certain songs live, it can change how you feel about them and it just make me love the song a hell of a lot more. I honestly thought I was going to cry at some point during the show just because of what Baek’s music means to me and how their music feels like home, but I was all okay. Or maybe it’s because the one song that would break me wasn’t played! Either way, it was just a beautiful show and to see how loved NoSo is in the UK gives me some hope that we may get more shows and not have to wait 3 more years! But hey, it was absolutely worth the wait, and I strongly advise that if you are ever able to get to their shows- you go. Grab that opportunity and experience something so ethereal and gentle.

For the encore we very nearly got a cover of Hot To Go but settled on Who Made You This Sweet? Lyrically the song will rip your heart out, but when you see it live, you just appreciate the beauty within in. I first found Baek’s music in late 2021 and round about then I was working out stuff and realised I was Non-Binary. It was rough, it was lonely and it was something I mentally had to go through alone. I was using music as a way to navigate my way through, and NoSo’s music felt like someone was holding my hand through it. When you get to see the songs live that were your crutch, it just means a hell of a lot more doesn’t it? You find your home wherever you can, wherever you want and in your own time.

There are certain shows you go to where you feel like you could stay in that moment forever and I absolutely got that last night. I just utterly love NoSo’s music and experiencing it live is something that goes beyond the words I’ve written or could ever write. My words do not do it justice at all but know that once you go to a NoSo show, your heart and soul will never be the same again.

WAVVES @ YES, Manchester. 17th February 2026

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Last week over 20 years of waiting, I finally saw Deftones and last night after waiting since 2009 to see them live, I FINALLY saw Wavves. I had tickets for a show in 2015 (I think) but couldn’t make it in the end, I was beyond upset so after YEARS of waiting, it finally happened. Was it worth the wait? It absolutely was. Did I leave the gig unable to hear anything? Again, yes!

Yesterday I wrote about the support act WHTVRMNS, and even though they only have 2 songs up online- I just knew that their live set would be something magical. I wasn’t wrong- they were perfect and it felt like they were playing the headline set at YES. In time (soon), they probably will to be honest because a band like that are destined for it. A gorgeous set which was a real joy to see. The way they play together on stage is a thing of beauty too because you can not only tell they love making music, but they totally adore each other too, and that’s part of why you cannot help but love the band.

Wavves hit the stage and part of me feels I’ve made a daft decision by standing SO close to the speakers- it’s a future me problem. The set was a strong mix of old and very new songs, and every single song was pretty much yelled back at the band. Pints were thrown, cigarettes and glasses (not the drinking kind) ended up on the stage. A bunch of crowd surfing too happened- all of which made this Tuesday night pretty damn special. Now if I’d ever seen Wavves live before, I’d have declared this as the best I’d ever seen them but sadly, I cannot declare that. I can, however, say that this was one of the most exciting shows I’ve ever been to. I knew it’d be rowdy and pints would be thrown in the crowd, but you know what? People weren’t arseholes about it. Everyone here bloody loved the band and was there for THEM and to not be total idiots. I’ve seen it happen a lot, but thankfully people were pretty cool last night.

For me, it was always going to be Green Eyes that would own my heart BUT the band played So Bored which was one of the first ever songs I heard by Wavves and it’s the song that got me hooked. Of course, King Of The Beach got one of the biggest reactions of the night but even new songs like Bozo and Goner were screamed back. Afraid Of Heights was right up there as one of my highlights for sure- lyrically this song has always owned a piece of me, and to see it live was such a great experience. Post Acid was a riot too- and everyone went nuts to this. It’s one of the best Wavves songs but seeing it live makes it mean so much more. Fucking incredible. Demon To Lean On claimed and owned my heart too. Man, it was such a joyful night. I’d love to be at a Wavves show every night. I mean, my body may hate me for it but the energy on and off stage was just beautiful. Definitely one of my favourite shows of any band I’ve seen in Manchester.

Proper Mancunian (or just delightful Northern humour) shone through when Alex was doing soundcheck, a few yelled to him that his fly was undone on his jeans which led to chants of “take it off!” Nathan also commented during the set that the zipper had been causing issues. Fly up or down, Alex is one of the loudest guitarists I’ve heard and is probably responsible for me not being able to fully hear today. Always worth it.

Nathan, Stevie, Ross, and Alex play like a bunch of kids in school who are best friends and living out their dream- and that’s why they are a joy to watch and listen to. For years and years Wavves have been a comfort band for me. There have been shitty times where I’ve used music as a crutch and their music has made it all a little better. Getting to see the songs that got you out of a rut live is always worth it. Especially when you’re stood right by the speaker and can’t hear well the next day. That’s always the sign of a good night! I really hope they don’t leave it so long for the next tour because THAT was some bloody show!

TURNSTILE @ Depot Mayfield, Manchester. 3rd November 2025.

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I think the happiest place on earth could well be a Turnstile show. Now, I’ve waited a ridiculous amount of time to see them live, and I’m just glad the venue wasn’t the Victoria Warehouse. If you ever make a list of shit venues- that one should be top. Anyway, the venue was alright last night. Stood at the back on a platform with a pretty much perfect view. The sound was solid, but the band were truly something else. Part of me wanted to cry because I was just so happy. But all I could do was stand and stare and just be in awe of one of the best bands around. They could easily sell out arenas over here, and maybe that’s next. But for now, these decent sized venues are it.

Turnstile start the show with Never Enough, and for the next hour and a half- the crowd are theirs. They are ours. Everything is alright in the world. The set is mainly the new record, but they through some gorgeous oldies in there, and it’s pretty much a perfect setlist. In an ideal world, Generator would be in there but who cares?! When you’ve waited what seems like an eternity to see a band you adore live, you don’t care what you see so long as you’re there. Every song played is screamed back from the crowd, and there’s not a still body in the crowd (apart from the person stood next to me for a bit who was with her partner- he was having a great time, but she was having none of it!) As far as crowds go, this one felt utterly safe and just full of love. You could really feel how much everyone loves the band, and every song just meant the world. You’ve got a band right up there in front of you, playing with everything they have and to see everyone around you give that same energy back was just divine.

Much like Amyl and The Sniffers set up- the projector on the screen shows the crowd on stage, and also the band. To see the amount of love and joy on everyone’s faces was just beautiful. I know some have said it was a shit venue, but maybe we got lucky from where we were stood. I think Turnstile may just be up there as one of the best bands I’ve ever seen live, and last night’s show is definitely in my top 3 favourite gigs of the year. It was just such a beautiful atmosphere, and it felt really safe. That’s all you can ask for (although, it should just be a given!)

The energy the band have is beautiful. Brendan leaps around the stage doing leaps and star jumps, and you just feel how much he loves being on stage. Meg is one of the slickest guitarists around, along with Pat. Franz is one hell of a bassist and Daniel is one of the best drummers I’ve ever seen. Turnstile are made up of the best of the best, and the way they play together on stage is honestly such a joy to watch. The just exude pure love for what they do, and for each other. I genuinely miss them right now and wish I was at a Turnstile show. I think I’m going to carry that feeling around for a long time, and I just know I’m going to get that same feeling next year when I finally (finally!!!) get to see Deftones. I’ve waited over 20 years for that; it’s going to be something else- I don’t think I’ve mentally prepared myself for it. But for now, I’m going to stay in the moment of being at a Turnstile show.

The only bad thing about last night was the cost of merch. A hoodie does not need to ever EVER be £100- especially when they are selling them on their merch online shop for £50. It doesn’t need to be that much at all. I got a bootleg one outside of the show for £30. Come on now, £100 for a hoodie is insane, there’s just no need for it.

Back to the show.

If you ever want to experience sheer euphoria and a sense of freedom, go to a Turnstile show. The crowd were just heavenly, and you could see how much it meant to everyone. Seein’ Stars is a billion times better live, and I feel when I listen to it on record now, I’ll just have to sulk because it isn’t live. Blackout and Mystery were a joy to witness. Closing the show with Birds was WILD. The amount of times I probably annoy my cat but picking her up and singing this to her is a lot! Turnstile are her favourite band. I’m raising her well.

Off the new record, Light Design was the one for me. There’s something about this song that just hits me and to see it live meant the world. Hearing old ones like Pushing Me Away was insane too, and it was just a dream to witness. I genuinely don’t think I can fully put into words how special a Turnstile show is. Like, I can try write about it but it’s one of those things where you HAVE to see for yourself. You can watch all the footage online or on YouTube but being there, being right there is something else.

Holiday saw a group of lads in front of us go absolutely apeshit, and it was wonderful. Just to see a band bring so many people together, and to see how happy everyone was….you can’t define that, ever. All you can do is soak it all up and truly be grateful for the band that mean the world, and so much more to you.

BRUISE CONTROL @SOUP, Manchester. 31st October 2025.

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I don’t think I can count how many times I’ve seen Bruise Control or written about them or told someone to listen to them but, I can tell you that their show at SOUP on Friday was a sight to behold. It was a night to remember because these angels of the north know how to put on a show.

As someone who believes in the mantra, “If I don’t leave a gig even slightly hard of hearing immediately or the day after, I probably didn’t enjoy it” I decided I had to fully commit to this notion on Friday. Was it a wise move? No. Did my teeth hurt from how loud it was? Yes. Was I stood right next to the massive speakers/amps? Yes. Yes, I was. Would I have stood anywhere else? Probably not. Side view of the stage and had ringing in my ears for a little while after (the morning after) was a dream. The show was a dream.

The band came onto the stage with Tommy (drummer) dressed as Richard O’Brien, and the rest of the band were in delightful jumpsuits, as contestants on the Crystal Maze. As the theme tune came on, I turned to my girlfriend and said “Casualty?!” Obviously, she corrected me and I was convinced both theme tunes sound VERY similar. Imagine if it was Casualty they walked onto the stage to? The costumes would have been wild. Tommy even treated us to a little ditty on his harmonica. Then it was show time. Then everybody in the crowd pushed forward and it was carnage from there. Jim had to call out some dickish behaviour in the crowd a couple of times. But that didn’t take away anything from the show they put on. I think Jim went into the crowd a few times, and the first time was a bit too much. People were a LOT. There’s no need to bash into people or touch people who don’t wish to be touched, y’know?

Every time I’ve seen them, they’ve just blown my mind (and eardrums) and Friday night just showed us all why they are one of the best bands around. I don’t think you can fully appreciate how great they are until you’ve seen them live. The way they sound together is just divine anyway, but live it is something else. Truly. The first few songs were played with NO break in between, and I have no idea where or how they get their energy. I was tired just watching them! Also, Tommy’s commitment to the Richard O’Brien costume was next level. I genuinely thought he was going to pass out from it. Obviously, Jim played in his little short shorts. I think it was a wise outfit choice at this point! But their dedication to each other, what they do, the crowd/fans and yes, Halloween outfits, just shows why they are such a joy to watch and to be a fan of. They mean so much to so many of us because they express the frustrations of daily life. Note- the frustration is with the government, taxman, and HMRC. It’s not the person coming to this country for a better life because where they are from is dangerous- it never was, and never will be. It’s those in “power” that are doing the damage and division. Pricks.

Anyway.

Bruise Control totally rip apart SOUP and blitz right through their set. They play some of their greatest hits, and also new one, Gone To Ground and a couple other from a new EP which should be with us next year. Their sound is distinctive and important. They are such an important band, and I urge anyone who gets the chance to see them live, to absolutely take it. Take some earplugs if you want, but go. You could see just how much the band mean to everyone in the crowd, and that’s been apparent every time I’ve seen them. I remember them supporting Amyl and The Sniffers at the Albert Hall a few years ago, and it could easily have been their headline show. One day, they will sell out Albert Show for themselves for sure. They just have something about them that makes them relatable, easy to love and to pretty much become obsessed with them. They are everything the world needs right now, and they go way beyond being a noisy Punk band. They are so much more than that. You can really feel how much it means to the band to have sold out SOUP, and I think it may be the most tickets they’ve sold for a show? I may be wrong, but let’s go with me being right because it’s such a beautiful achievement for them. The love they have and how much it means to them makes it that more important- hometown gigs always are, and that’s the beauty of seeing Bruise Control in Manchester. The crowd just get it more, and we’re all just really, really proud of this beautiful band.

Songs like Taxman and Useless are screamed back to the band, and that just shows the love and dedication Bruise Control fans have. They’re a band that you want to constantly see live because the environment they create at their shows is just beautiful. My hearing is back, and my love for this band remains great. I cannot wait to hear the EP in the new year, and for any shows that follow. They are easily Manchester’s fines

AMYL AND THE SNIFFERS @ O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester. 22nd October 2025.

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I first saw Amyl and The Sniffers live back in 2019 when they played their first headline Manchester show at the Deaf Institute, and from being a fan of theirs for a while beforehand- I can tell you that excitement has been there every time I’ve seen them live. Following that show, it was the Albert Hall then it was the Academy last year. And last night, it was probably the worst venue in Manchester (if you like getting squashed and twatted in the face, it’s fine) the Victoria Warehouse. However, as awful as the venue is- it was perfect for the band. The sound was great and to see THAT many people enjoy one of the best bands around was a joy to see. It was one of the most diverse crowds ever, and that shows the power of music. The media will do all it can to divide people, but music does the opposite.

They played 21 songs, and I reckon they could have played 21 more if possible. Imagine if they did Stole My Pushbike or 70s Street Munchies just one more time!! I’d have lost my mind. They opened with Balaclava Lover Boogie which is the only way to open a set. They walked on to the stage to probably the best dance song of the 90s (I was 5 when it came out, and I was obsessed!) Gypsy Woman by Crystal Waters. What a song to walk on to! Everyone was singing along, and I think that pretty much set the tone for the rest of the night.

A large portion of songs came from last year’s exceptional release, Cartoon Darkness and when you hear these songs live you really pick up on how important they are and also, how important this band really is. Every band last night (the support was SO good) used their platform to rightfully speak up about Palestine and how a ceasefire evidently is NOT happening, and we all know why. That’s how you use your platform, and more must do this. What I love about Amy Taylor is that she speaks about politics and how the world is and calls out the unfairness and the shitshow of it all in a way that you connect with. For me, she’s the best around and I think she is someone young people will look up to and start their own band or maybe just think, “Yep- that’s me!”

Every single song is greeted with this echo of noise that makes you realise just how loved this band are. If I could pinpoint a reason as to why I love them so, I really don’t think I could. There are so many reasons. Declan is one of the coolest and slickest guitarists around, Bryce beats the shit out of the drums and the sheer energy he has is a perfect match to Amy’s, Gus is the bass player every bass player wishes they were. They’re all in their own zone but together on stage, and it is such a joy to watch.

They rip through every single song, and it’s met with such love and devotion, and they give the same back. The band have been together nearly a decade (next year is 10 years) and they sound like they’ve been together longer, and with their strong sound and bond- I reckon they’ll be a band like Garbage and tour forever and just get stronger over the years. Their live shows are such a phenomenal experience, and you will always want more. The atmosphere they create is heavenly and you can’t help but be in awe of all their energy. You can absolutely tell they love doing this and they adore each other, and when you see this- it makes you believe in the music even more.

There are tender moments in the set, and it’s when Amy sings Knifey you can really hear every single raw emotion possible. They also play a sped up version of Big Dreams which just gives it more urgency and bite to it. When I first heard this one, it broke me but hearing it like this just makes it bigger in its own way. Seeing people lose themselves (and drinks, clothing, and shoes) to songs like Hertz, Guided By Angels and Chewing Gum is just a gorgeous sight to see, and it just shows again, how loved they are.

They get better each time I see them, and to see them go from playing a venue that holds 260 people to 3,500 is WILD. I know they play festivals etc, but this is them, on their own. Working their arses off and showing us all why Punk isn’t dead, and it will never die. They have such a solid and strong sound, and I honestly hope we get bands come out and say THIS is the band that have influenced them.

Amyl and The Sniffers are easily one the best and most exciting bands of our time, and their live shows are something that everyone needs to experience at least twice in their lifetime, then make it a habit to be fair! Also, having 3,500 scream the words “Wank! Wank! Wank!” during Jerkin’ will ALWAYS be wonderful.

Hearing songs like Maggot, U Should Not Be Doing That and GFY is big venues sounds just as divine as it does in small venues, which just shows that the band can, regardless of the size of the venue, beautifully rip it apart.

So, there you have it, as expected- the show last night was a true masterclass in all a live show should be. My hatred for Viccy Warehouse will always be there but my love for Amyl and The Sniffers will only ever grow. It was a truly special show, and they are so deserving of every ounce of success that they continue to receive. They are kicking open doors for every and anyone and are being the voice for those who may be scared to speak up. I’d happily go to their shows every single night if I could because the energy, they all bring is everything the world needs right now.

PINS @ Oporto, Leeds. 10th October 2025.

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Last night, I think I may have been in the world’s hottest venue. It was also one of the most cramped venues ever too. Was the sweat and small space worth it? Absolutely! PINS are currently touring the 10 year anniversary of their record, Wild Nights. I remember being at the album launch for it 10 years ago, and to hear the songs a decade later and them still feel brand new was so cool! It just shows how great the band are.

Now, I’ve seen PINS play about 10 times over thew years and last night as my first time seeing them play in a venue in the north. Location isn’t everything, but Oporto was a great place to see them. PINS have a sound that’s unlike anything else, and when you see them live you really feel the music and can really appreciate their sound. Sadly, there were the usual pervy men in the front zooming in on body parts and filming the band- especially during the last song when a few of the crowd were on stage. I used to see this happen years ago in London, so it looks like this breed of human sadly occurs everywhere. It’s just wrong, and it makes me so mad. Imagine if someone was doing it to their daughter? Idiots. Anyway, back to how solid the show was!

I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone on stage with as much energy as Lois. It was so cool to see that same energy from years ago is still there. I really don’t think anyone loves being on that stage as much as she does; a real joy to see. Faith’s voice is as powerful as ever, and on delicate songs like Got It Bad you can really hear the power in her voice. The addition of Abbi on the drums adds some extra loudness to the sound and Kyoko may be one of the slickest bassists around. Is it the best PINS have ever sounded? Of course. The tightness of the band is there and hearing how Wild Nights has developed and got stronger over the past decade is a real joy to witness.

Every song off the record is played along with new single, I’ll Be Yours and the classics- Serve The Rich and of course, Girls Like Us. For me, hearing Dazed By You (which in my humble and biased opinion, is one of the best modern love songs around) live again just made me so happy. I genuinely thought I was going to cry out of happiness hearing it live again but instead, I just sang along and had a lovely time. There is something about a PINS show that leaves you feeling like you can take on the world. There are delicate moments in the set (Got It Bad and If Only) but there are these sensational ferocious parts where you know you are absolutely in the presence of one of the best bands to have ever come from Manchester. I love the rage in Too Little Too Late that I just love so much. You can proper shout a long to this, and I think it’s partly why my throat hurts today! House Of Love and Oh Lord are divine live too. The whole record is just timeless, and I’m so glad they have celebrated it by putting on these shows.

Although this was my possibly 11th time seeing PINS, it really felt like I was seeing them for the first time last night. It’d been too long, and I hope they play more shows now because they are one of the most exciting bands to see live, and I just adore them so much. I love how when you’ve loved a band for so long, you can really hear how their sound has grown- especially in a live setting. The celebration of Wild Nights was a thing of beauty, and hopefully we can celebrate it again in another 10 years. Although, I’ll probably need to be seated for that!

The shows ends with the anthem that is, Girls Like Us. Faith brings a number of people onto the worlds smallest stage for such a big moment. Seeing the love and happiness of everyone on the stage summed up exactly what PINS are about and why, although they are criminally underrated, they are one of the best around. No one will ever do it like PINS and last night totally proved it.

One final thing- they are selling posters on the tour for Kinder Relief to support the people of Palestine. Go to the show and buy a poster or two. Anything left over will be up on their Bandcamp page after the tour.