Liverpool – where it’s at
Liverpool’s 2015 gig guide is already bursting at the seams, Getintothis‘ Paul Higham has compiled an exhaustive list of what’s on and where on the Merseyside live map.
We trust that you are all feeling suitably refreshed and revitalised – and ready to take 2015 by the proverbial horns. With that in mind what better way to plan your 2015 live music activities than by digesting our definitive guide to Liverpool’s gigs announced thus far.
You’ll find a fairly eclectic range of gigs to suit all manner of tastes. There are some of the best new bands in the region, indie legends, boyband revivals, legendary old-timers, hip-hop superstars and even reality TV people. If there’s not something to tickle your fancy below then you’ve come to the wrong webpage.
New events are announced daily, so book mark this page and our news section to keep up to date with the latest live dates and previews. To ensure that you don’t miss out please do follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Deep breath, here’s the best of what’s going down…
Hands up if you know the words to this one…
Peace at The Kazimier – 15 January 2015 (sold out), 16 January 2015 (sold out)
Worcester indie-rock quartet, Peace, return to Liverpool to play two very special sold-out shows at The Kazimier. It should be the perfect way to shake off those post-Christmas winter blues.
Aaron Carter at Arts Club – 16 January 2015
American dance-pop rap artist and former teen sensation returned to the live stage in 2013 for the first time since 2005. One for those looking relive their teenage years.
The Wombats at Magnet – 16 January 2015 (sold out)
Ahead of the release of their third album, Glitterbug, Liverpool natives and LIPA graduates The Wombats play a short small venue tour as a warm-up for bigger things. Their show at Magnet is now sold out so we hope that you have got your hands on tickets already
Nils Lofgren at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 16 January 2015
There are not many musicians that are able to lay claim to being integral members of the bands of two legendary rock artists. As a former member of Crazy Horse and currently part of Bruce Springsteen‘s E Street Band, this will be a rare opportunity to see a bona fide virtuoso guitarist in such close quarters.
Colour at Blade Factory – 17 January 2015
Hailing from Stoke and Liverpool, art-pop outfit, Colour, have been on our radar for a while. It will be a thrill to catch them on the live stage at Blade Factory as they launch their new EP.
Thirteen Shots at The Lomax – 17 January 2015
With the recent release of their White Noise EP, Thirteen Shots have further evolved their psychobilly/punk rock ‘n’ roll sound. Taking classic garage, blues and rock ‘n’ roll influences to forge their own sound, it promises to be a raucous and riotous evening of thrilling old- fashioned fun.
Sarah Jane Morris at Zanzibar – 17 January 2015
Former singer of The Republic and The Communards, Sarah Jane Morris is set to bring a special performance to Zanzibar later this month. Latest album Bloody Rain has been hailed as her masterpiece combining strong lyrical images with rhythmic and seductive melodies. Here is a review of her gig at London’s Union Chapel last year.
Harry Harris at Zanzibar – 21 January 2015
Singer-songwriter, Harry Harris has a new LP, Songs About Other People, due to be released on 26 January 2015 on Wild Sound Recordings. Hear him present songs such as The Ballad of Ronnie Radford and Kandinsky Was A Synaesthete live at Zanzibar later this month.
Slipknot + Korn at Echo Arena, Liverpool – 22 January 2015
American nu-metal pioneers, Slipknot, bring their thing to The Echo Arena later this month. Like-minded support is provided by Korn in what is a fairly stellar double-bill if this is your bag.
Digits at The Lomax – 26 January 2015
Not to be confused with Alt Altman‘s brooding electronic outfit of the same name, Digits are a Newcastle based alt-rock outfit. Bold, intricate and laden with heavy hooks, the band are set to release their second EP, Footprints & Embers on 2 February 2015.
Roam at Studio 2 – 27 January 2015
Eastbourne pop-punks bring their Gaslight Anthem inspired sounds to Studio 2 at the end of the month. Big, anthemic and powerful verse-chorus song structures characterise their fun-drenched sound.
Hayseed Dixie at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 28 January 2015
If you like your bluegrass music with a heavy dose of satire and parody then Hayseed Dixie could just be the band for you. Renowned for reinterpreting the works of hard rock bands such as AC-DC and Rammstein, playing festivals as diverse as Download and Cambridge Folk Festival and releasing an album entirely in Norwegian, the band are touring in support of their forthcoming release, Hair Down To My Grass.
Moose Blood at Arts Club – 28 January 2015
Canterbury four-piece, Moose Blood bring their emo-influenced yet defiantly British punk sound to the Arts Club. Last year’s LP I’ll Keep You In Mind, From Time To Time was well- received and it will be interesting to see how they blend their obvious influences to create their own live sound.
Black Diamond at Arts Club – 30 January 2015
Black Diamond are a youthful classic rock influenced outfit. We’ve been impressed with their musicianship in recent support slots and hopefully the headlining show will give them the opportunity to broaden their sonic outlook and play things a little less cautiously.
The Paperhead at Shipping Forecast – 30 January 2015
Signed to Trouble In Mind records, The Paperhead are an American psychedelic outfit hailing from Nashville yet in thrall to that defiantly British sound from the late 1960s, particularly the Canterbury scene. Think Ray Davies crossed with The Olivia Tremor Control and you’ll get somewhere close.
Clap! Clap! at Constellations – 30 January 2015
Ever wondered what it would be like if someone sampled traditional sounds of tribal music and elephants? Since bursting onto the scene with two fantastic EPs and an album last September, the Clap! Clap! project masterminded by Christiano Crisci has snowballed in more than the world of electronica.
Think Tank Vol 3 at The Kazimier – 31 January 2015
Think Tank Vol 3 is set to feature hip-hop legends Blackalicious whose career has spanned two decades and has seen them remain at the forefront of their contemporaries staying true to their hip-hop sound and having been likened to the likes of Pharcyde and Jurassic 5.
Kaiser Chiefs at Echo Arena, Liverpool – 31 January 2015
Ricky Wilson brings his Leeds-based Britpop revivalists to the Echo Arena to kick-off their new European tour. Their latest album Education, Education, Education & War has been produced by Ben H Allen III who has previously worked with the likes of Deerhunter and Animal Collective. It will be interesting, no doubt, to see what influence he has had on the band’s sound.
Nick Harper at The Lomax – 31 January 2015
Nick Harper is an English singer-songwriter best known for being the son of the much revered and highly influential folk maestro, Roy Harper. With impeccable lineage, Harper is renowned for his finger-picking guitar playing style and is touring in support of his recently released ninth album Nix.
Broken DC at Maguires Pizza Bar – 31 January 2015
A three-piece post-rock outfit from London, Broken DC will be bringing their Slint-influenced sounds to a new audience at Maguire’s Pizza Bar at the end of January. Coupled with raging rock songs and a punk sensibility this promises to be a corker. The band have previously supported Gallon Drunk and Icarus Line.
Rae Morris at The Kazimier – 1 February 2015
Rae Morris is an emerging singer-songwriter and pianist from Blackpool. In her short career she has already collaborated with Bombay Bicycle Club and Clean Bandit as well as opening for George Ezra on his European tour. This tour is in support or her debut LP, Unguarded, which is set for a January release.
Seth Lakeman at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 4 February 2015
Folk singer, multi-instrumentalist and former Mercury prize nominee, Seth Lakeman, heads to The Philharmonic Hall where the pitch-perfect acoustics should complement his sound.
Kathryn Williams at The Kazimier – 4 February 2015
February sees Kathryn Williams return home to Liverpool again, following last year’s terrific performance at Leaf. When singer-songwriters seem ten-a-penny, when one stands out from the crowd it really does make you sit up and take notice. Head down to The Kaz to see what the fuss is all about.
Julian Cope at The Epstein Theatre – 5 February 2015
The former frontman of Liverpool’s very own Teardrop Explodes, Archdrude Julian Cope brings his unique world view to The Epstein Theatre next February. Rest assured that this will be great.
Stu Larsen at Studio 2 – 5 February 2015
Plaintive acoustic folk from Stu Larsen, an Australian native hailing from Bowenville, Queensland.
Red Sails (release party) at Scandinavian Seaman’s Church, Liverpool – 6 February 2015
If newish song Sit On Your Hands is anything to go by, Red Sails sound has shown signs of evolution away from the ethereal and melodious towards something a little more experimental and frenetically anxious. Their new sound is reminiscent of The Coral and on that basis alone we’re looking forward to the album release party.
Magnum at Arts Club – 6 February 2015
Enduring progressive-rock from Birmingham, Magnum have outlasted contemporaries such as ELO and Wizzard. Why not pop along and see if they’ve still got what it takes.
Sam Bailey at The Empire Theatre, Liverpool – 6 February 2015
Apparently she’s someone from The X Factor. We don’t watch that sort of thing so we’ve no idea if she’s any good or not.
Abandon Silence at The Kazimier – 6 February 2015
One of Liverpool’s premier club nights. Here’s our review of the last one.
Bailey McConnell at Arts Club – 7 February 2015
Another reality TV star, this time from Britain’s Got Talent. He’s very young so clearly has a lot of potential. And big hair.
The Ballet at The Epstein Theatre – 7 February 2015
Cult New York band The Ballet have found a home on Fortuna Pop! and will bring their overtly gay and defiantly DIY sound to The Epstein in February. Quirky and fun but with a serious side too, their music recalls the likes of The Magnetic Fields as well as Erasure.
The Staves at Arts Club – 10 February 2015
Watford sisters The Staves have just been recording with Bon Iver‘s Justin Vernon and this has given them a fuller and more confident sound. Check out our preview here.
Richard and Adam at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 10 February 2015
More reality TV stars, apparently Richard and Adam finished third in the seventh series of Britain’s Got Talent and are Welsh classical singers. If you’re into cruise ship cabaret then this could be for you.
The Wave Pictures at The Kazimier – 11 February 2015
Longstanding stalwarts of the London indie scene, The Wave Pictures have gone from strength to strength in recent years. 2013’s City Forgiveness was released to huge acclaim. Long associated with Darren Hayman, The Wave Pictures are indebted to British indie pop traditions and celebrate the geekiness and doomed romanticism of English suburbia.
Alexander at Arts Club – 11 February 2015
Alexander are a catchy and melodic indie-pop band from Newcastle. Their music is polished shiny and radio-friendly, perfect for sunny days and holidays.
Hawk Eyes at Maguires Pizza Bar – 12 February 2015
Leed-based Hawk Eyes will bring their monster riffs to Maguires Pizza Bar. Check out our preview here.
Fearless Vampire Killers at O2 Academy 2, Liverpool – 12 February 2015
Named after a 1967 Roman Polanski film, Fearless Vampire Killers are a gothic inspired pop band renowned for their theatrical live shows. This will appeal to fans of the likes of My Chemical Romance and Muse.
10cc at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 15 February 2015
As the only remaining member of the original line-up, Graham Gouldman brings the present line-up of Stockport art-rockers 10cc to The Philharmonic Hall in February.
King Charles at Arts Club – 16 February 2015
Flamboyant and moustachioed, King Charles presents his dandified and foppish electro-folk at the Arts Club.
Slow Club at Arts Club – 16 February 2015
English boy-girl indie-folk duo from Sheffield. The band, expanded to a four-piece in a live setting specialise in harmony and melody, although always delivered with an indie sensibility and never sounding too pure. They released their third album, Complete Surrender, in the summer of 2014.
The War On Drugs at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 16 February 2015
A much anticipated rearranged date following the calculation of their Liverpool Music Week show, Adam Granduciel will showcase songs from Lost In Dream, Getintothis‘ album of 2014. Deftly combining krautrock rhythms with a Tom Petty-like grandeur, the album is an arresting take on American heartlands rock. If Spaceman 3 had covered Springsteen in his 80s pomp it might have sounded a bit like this.
The Jesus and Mary Chain at Liverpool Guild of Students – 16 February 2015
Despite lamenting the clash with The War on Drugs, we became very excited when this was announced. Playing the seminal Psychocandy in its entirety, it promises to be a momentous occasion. Here’s our review of the Manchester show last year to whet your appetite.
Kate Tempest at The Kazimier – 18 February 2015
Many people’s favourite to take this year’s Mercury prize, Kate Tempest is a spoken-word artist who has produced a modern hip-hop album in very much her own style. While Young Fathers were worthy winners we would not have grumbled had this concept and character-driven album scooped the gong.
Richard Dawson at The Shipping Forecast – 18 February 2015
Unsettling and subversive folk music from Newcastle’s Richard Dawson. His latest album, Nothing Important, has garnered five star reviews and huge critical acclaim. It has been said by Michael Hann in the Guardian that he is doing to English folk music what Captain Beefheart did to the Blues. High praise indeed.
Orla Gartland at Arts Club – 18 February 2015
Quirky folk-pop from the youthful Dublin-based singer-songwriter.
Don Broco at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 18 February 2015
Having achieved broader fame supporting the likes of Enter Shikari, the Bedford alternative four piece bring their nu-metal and post-hardcore crossover sounds to the O2 Academy as the Kerrang! tour hits Liverpool.
Omnium Gatherum at Magnet – 19 February 2015
Proving that Scandinavian Death Metal can be melodious and full of soaring and infectious riffs are Omnium Gatherum, who play Magnet next month.
The Sundowners at The Kazimier – 20 February 2015
Emerging talents on the Liverpool scene, Sundowners have been compared to Fleetwood Mac. We caught up with them at the end of 2014 and expect 2015 to be their breakthrough year.
Echo & The Bunnymen at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 20 February 2015
Arguably the best band to hail from these shores since The Beatles, Echo & The Bunnymen released new album, Meteorites in 2014 to wide critical acclaim. Expect a triumphant homecoming brimming with McCulloch’s customary self-assured arrogance.
Rumer at The Epstein Theatre – 20 February 2015
Last year Rumer released Into Colour, her first album since 2010’s debut Seasons Of My Soul, to relatively mixed reviews. It’s easy-listening for sure burt it packs emotional heft and deals with very personal experiences ranging from miscarriage to coping with depression.
Lola Colt at Magnet – 20 February 2015
Spaghetti western pop-noir from this London band evoking PJ Harvey, The Doors and Jefferson Airplane in a moody psychedelic haze. They played Liverpool Psych Fest a couple of years ago.
Hooton Tennis Club (EP Launch Party) at The Shipping Forecast – 20 February 2015
Endorsed by The Farm‘s Carl Hunter, who signed the group for Edge Hill University‘s own Label Recordings, Hooton Tennis Club have recently netted a new deal with legendary indie label Heavenly Records. Launching their new EP at The Shipping Forecast, we can expect a perfectly executed slice of their well judged lo-fi, slacker rock sound. Support comes from one of our tips RongoRongo.
Moats at Maguires Pizza Bar – 21 February 2015
We saw Moats play an impressive support slot at The Shipping Forecast in September. Full of indie riffs and an Interpol-like swagger, these guys have impressed with their DIY aesthetic and infamous messy gigs. This headline show should be a riot.
Blossoms at The Kazimier – 22 February 2015
Blossoms hail from Manchester and have been attracting attention as a terrific live outfit. Sure, they are one of many that ape late-60s psychedelia but they seem to be growing in confidence and maturing into their own sound. We approve and they featured in one of our recent jukebox selections.
Jungle at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 22 February 2015
A musical duo whose live show expands to a seven piece band. They’re a UK modern soul collective and have been making waves with their debut album, released on XL Recordings last year.
JP Cooper / Amique / Sophia Ben Yousef at Magnet – 22 February 2015
JP Cooper is an acoustic singer-songwriter who deftly blends a mix of folk, blues and soul. JP Cooper is joined by Amique, a talented funk-soul performer, and teenage soul star-in-the-making, Sophia Ben Yousef, who impressed us at our launch party last summer.
Koji and Bob Nanna at Studio 2 – 22 February 2015
A collaborative show between Koji, an American musician, songwriter and activist, and Bob Nanna, frontman of post-hardcore outfit Braid and the more pop-influenced Hey Mercedes.
Gogo Penguin (Liverpool International Jazz Festival) at The Kazimier – 26 February 2015
Gogo Penguin are a band from Manchester whose music defies easy categorisation. Drawing influences from electronica, jazz and classical music, they have been compared to Massive Attack and Brian Eno as well as classical composers such as Debussy and Shostakovich.
Queen and Adam Lambert at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 26 February 2015
The former American Idol first teamed up with Queen in 2009 to perform the band’s anthem We Are The Champions and, following a brief tour in 2012, May, Taylor and Lambert are hitting the road on a lengthier tour that will see the band play 25 shows across 10 countries. Thankfully for us, the Echo Arena will play host to the band next month.
The Roseville Band at Maguires Pizza Bar – 27 February 2015
Hailing from Wrexham, The Roseville Band have been described as a British Kings of Leon. This should appeal to fans of the likes of Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers as well as being foot-stomping good fun.
The Gentle Scars at O2 Academy 2, Liverpool – 27 February 2015
The North West’s answer to The Ramones and The New York Dolls? Perhaps not but they certainly make up The Gentle Scars‘ influences. Expect a blazing slice of punk influenced rock ‘n’ roll.
T’Pau at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 28 February 2015
Renowned for their late 80s hit China In Your Hand, Carol Decker has recently reunited with original band member and co-songwriter Ronnie Rogers for a reunion tour heavy on nostalgia.
Ryan Adams at Liverpool Guild of Students – 1 March 2015
Former Whiskeytown frontman and prolific solo artist Ryan Adams has sobered up recently and seemingly left his hell-raising days behind him. While undoubtedly good for his health it seems to have hindered his restless creativity and dampened his prodigious output. Nonetheless we’re sure this will be a barnstorming show at the newly refurbished Mountford Hall.
The Unthanks, The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 1 March 2015
Folk sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank hail from Newcastle and have been long immersed in the folk and dance traditions of Northumbria. Lovely harmonies and traditional dancing disguise a strong songwriting abilities. Where for many the folk revival has consisted of countless soulless bandwagon jumpers, these are the real deal.
James Taylor Quartet (Liverpool International Jazz Festival) at The Kazimier – 1 March 2015
Unconnected to the American singer of the same name, the James Taylor Quartet is a British four-piece jazz-funk band formed in the late 1980s and renowned for their live performances.
Katherine Jenkins at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 2 March 2015
Classically trained Welsh chanteuse with huge mass-market crossover appeal. Blessed with a lovely voice but perhaps plays it a bit too safe. One to take your mum to, perhaps.
Sleaford Mods at The Kazimier – 3 March 2015
After a momentous rise on the back of two acclaimed LPs (Austerity Dogs was Norman Records album of the year in 2013 and Divide and Exit was a few people’s 2014 choice), Sleaford Mods‘ star shows no sign of dimming. Relentless and unflinching, they seem to understand the anger frustrations of our times like no other. One of our most important bands and a welcome stop in Liverpool.
The Script at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 5 March 2014
Irish pop-rock band led by Danny O’Donoghue. Their music will no doubt be recognisable for having been used in TV shows such as The Hills, Waterloo Road and Made In Chelsea.
Martha Tilston at Arts Club – 6 March 2015
An English alternative folk singer-songwriter of impeccable lineage. Martha Tilston is the daughter of Steve Tilston and Irish folk performer Maggie Boyle. Her shows have ranged from solo-acoustic to performing backed by a full band.
tUnE-yArDs at Anglican Cathedral, Liverpool – 6 March 2015
Pretty much a one-woman show, tUnE-yArDs is the musical project of Merril Garbus who combines ukulele playing with live drum loops created on the spot. Her music his unique and distinctive and it’s almost as fun to watch her create as it is to hear the end-product. Check out our preview here.
The Levellers at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 6 March 2015
Cult veterans The Levellers found fame among students and travellers in the early 1990s and they bring their distinctive sound to The Philharmonic Hall in March to demonstrate their enduring appeal.
Tommy Scott at Leaf Cafe, Liverpool – 6 March 2015
Better known as the lead singer of Liverpool’s Space, Tommy Scott heads to Leaf to perform a hometown solo show.
Royzy w/ Lunar C at The Kazimier – 7 March 2015
Homegrown rap and hip-hop artist Royzy Rothschild presents his unique show at The Kazimier in support of a new LP release, An Only Child scheduled for 7 March 2015.
Spandau Ballet at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 7 March 2015
Seminal New Wave group led by Tony Hadley bring more nostalgia to Liverpool this spring. Expect hits such as Gold and True from the band that has had ten UK top ten hit singles and eight top ten albums.
Anathema at Anglican Cathedral, Liverpool – 7 March 2015
Longstanding Liverpool progressive rock band are set to bring songs from their 2014 release Distant Satellites to the magnificent setting of Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral.
Barbara Dickson at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 7 March 2015
Perhaps better known for her role in leading musicals such as Spend Spend Spend and Blood Brothers, Barbara Dickson is one of Scotland’s best selling solo artists and has recently released an album in tribute to Gerry Rafferty.
Room 94 at O2 Academy 2, Liverpool – 9 March 2015
North London pop-rockers Room 94 consist of three brothers and their mate. Interestingly, they have released a DVD documentary highlighting the (few) ups and the (many) downs of life as a touring band trying to get ahead in the music industry with little money and no record label to support them.
The Stranglers at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 9 March 2015
No-nonsense veterans who emerged from the 1970s pub-rock scene to build a loyal following as a punk band before embracing a range of diverse genres from new-wave to 80s sophisti-pop.
Placebo at Liverpool Guild of Students – 10 March 2015
Androgynous indie-rock survivors who shot to fame in the mid-1990s with a raft of hit singles including the glam-influenced Nancy Boy.
BC Camplight at Leaf Cafe – 11 March 2015
BC Camplight is the alter-ego of maverick American songwriter Brian Christinzio who released two psych-pop gems in the mid-2000s before fading into obscurity. Now settled in Manchester he is set to release a new album, How To Die In The North, on Bella Union that is a rich, rewarding, Harry Nilsson-inspired take on ’60s pop.
Lucy Rose at Arts Club – 11 March 2015
Joni Mitchell influenced folk-rock artist known for performing alongside Jack Steadman of Bombay Bicycle Club.
Glass Animals at The Kazimier – 13 March 2015
Oxford-based indie rock band who released their debut album Zaba in June 2014.
Lionel Richie at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 13 March 2015
American soul and R&B legend formerly of The Commodores but who achieved widespread fame and success as a solo artist.
Duke Special + Paul Cook and the Chronicles at Arts Club – 13 March 2015
Duke Special is the project of Belfast-based singer-songwriter. His live performances have a theatrical style and brings together vaudeville and music hall with 78s played through vintage gramophones.
We Were Promised Jetpacks at Arts Club – 14 March 2015
Creative and experimental indie rock from Scotland. In 2014 We Were Promised Jetpacks released their third album, Unravelling, to near-universal positive reviews.
Damien Dempsey + Ian Prowse at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 14 March 2015
Damien Dempsey is an Irish singer-songwriter from Dublin who combines traditional Irish folk music with modern social commentary.
Mobb Deep at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 15 March 2015
2014 saw Liverpool play host to a number of corking hip-hop gigs and this looks set to continue into 2015. Mobb Deep are one of the most revered east coast hip-hop outfits and have been partially credited for the resurgence of East Coast rap in the early to mid 1990s.
The Answer at Arts Club – 17 March 2015
Northern Irish hard rock and blues band, The Answer get set to play The Arts Club this spring in support of the imminent release of their 5th studio album, Raise A Little Hell.
The Selector + The Tuts at Arts Club – 19 March 2015
Formed in 1979, The Selector are a two-tone and Ska revival band. The band reformed in 2010 and have since released two new albums with a third, Subculture, set for release to coincide with the spring tour. Expect to hear all of the old classics alongside newer material.
Reef at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 20 March 2015
Another mid-90s revival heads to Liverpool. Reef achieved notoriety for their single Naked, which was used to by Sony to advertise their minidisc product (remember them?), and their highest charting hit, Place Your Hands, which become something of a Britpop-era anthem.
The Handsome Family at Leaf Cafe – 20 March 2015
From New Mexico via Chicago, The Handsome Family are odd-ball husband and wife songwriting team Brett and Rennie Sparks. Often labelled as alt-country, The Handsome Family‘s quirkily irreverent songs containing strong elements of gothic noir, flawed romances and murder have ensured a cult following.
Joan Armatrading at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 23 March 2015
Joan Armatrading is a British singer and guitarist who has been nominated for three Grammy awards during her 40 year career that has seen her release 18 studio albums. Primarily a pop artist, her music incorporates many contrasting styles including rock, jazz, blues, soul and reggae.
Paloma Faith at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 24 March 2015
Paloma Faith is a British singer songwriter known for her retro and eccentric performances. Her cover of INXS‘ Never Tear Us Apart was featured in a John Lewis advertising campaign in 2012.
Purling Hiss at The Shipping Forecast – 24 March 2015
Purling Hiss is began as a side-project of Mike Polizze, formerly the guitarist with Birds of Maya. Now concentrating fully on this band, his sound marries the hard rock sensibilities of his former band with the alt-rock power of the likes of Dinosaur Jr. and Meat Puppets mashed up with some out-there weirdness. Eschewing the controlled ambience of fellow Philadelphians, The War On Drugs, Purling Hiss are a high volume and hard-rocking outfit likely to make those ears bleed.
Jon Gomm at Leaf Cafe – 26 March 2015
Jon Gomm is an English songwriter and performer who is noted for using solely an acoustic guitar to create drum sounds, bass lines and melody simultaneously. His music reveals influences from the worlds of soul, blues, rock and even metal. His last Liverpool gig in 2013 was a sell-out so you’d best not hang about if you want to catch him this time around.
Young Rebel Set at Studio 2 – 26 March 2015
Described as “life affirming graft rock” by the NME, Young Rebel Set are an indie-rock band from the North East. Their music reveals strong blue-collar influences somewhat reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen. their second album, Crocodiles, released in 2013 was produced by former Delgados‘ drummer Paul Savage, who is perhaps now best known for his work with Mogwai.
Rival Sons at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 29 March 2015
Classic rock from California, albeit one with a few modern twists rather than being shamelessly derivative. If you’re a fan of the likes of The Black Keys we’re pretty sure that you’d dig these guys.
Gretchen Peters at The Epstein Theatre – 29 March 2015
Award-winning country music singer and songwriter from Nashville via New York. As well as penning songs for herself, Peters has written for the likes of Neil Diamond, George Strait and Patty Loveless. She was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in October 2014.
Fuse ODG at O2 Academy 2 – 31 March 2015
British-Ghanaian singer who fuses modern hip-hop with traditional African music. His debut LP, TINA, was released in November 2014 and he has previously been a four-time winner at the 2013 Urban Music Awards. In 2014 he refused to participate in the Band Aid single, citing the song’s negative portrayal of Africa.
McBusted at Echo Arena, Liverpool – 31 March 2015
An unwelcome amalgam of McFly and Busted. One best avoided.
Simple Minds at Empire Theatre, Liverpool – 1 April 2015, 2 April 2015
Scottish band who found fame in the late 1970s and achieved considerable commercial success in the 1980s. Despite several personnel changes the band continues to tour and remains led by its founding member, Jim Kerr.
Ward Thomas at Arts Club – 1 April 2015
UK country music duo of youthful twin-sisters, Catherine and Lizzy.
Bipolar Sunshine at The Kazimier – 2 April 2015
Bipolar Sunshine is the solo moniker of Adio Marchant, previously the co-vocalist of Manchester six-piece Kid British. Bipolar Sunshine combines indie rock with modern urban music creating a sound that incorporates elements of gospel and soul. There are elements of Mike Skinner in his wryly observational as well as personal lyrics.
Blue at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 2 April 2015
Recently revived R&B boyband intent on reliving their turn of the millennium heyday.
The Isrights + Who Brought the Bear at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 3 April 2015
The Isrights are a Liverpool 4 piece, who according to their twitter profile, “haven’t shook the world yet“. Their music is a heady amalgam of ska and punk. Who Brought The Bear are a Liverpool band making waves with their mix of grunge guitar and clashing drums.
Ghostpoet at The Kazimier – 3 April 2015
Former Mercury Prize nominee Ghostpoet heads to The Kazimier this April in support of his forthcoming new album Shedding Skin. The new album looks set to see him head in a slightly new direction and has been recorded live with his touring band aided by, among others, Lucy Rose, Etta Bond and Maximo Park‘s Paul Smith. Find out more in our preview here.
The View at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 4 April 2015
Scottish indie rock band who first emerged as part of the post-punk revival scene of the mid-2000s. Where many of their contemporaries have fallen by the wayside The View have survived so they must be doing something right. The follow-up to 2012’s Cheeky For A Reason is set to be released to coincide with this tour.
Catfish & The Bottlemen at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 5 April 2015
Producers of our worst album of 2014, they seem set, once again, to play another exuberant gig to their many adoring fans. But, hey, what do we know?
Nicki Minaj at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 6 April 2015
American rapper, singer and songwriter Nicki Minaj brings her Pinkprint tour to Liverpool’s Echo Arena in the Spring. Felt by some to be the most influential rapper of all time, Minaj has assured fans that she has some surprises in store and has promised that this tour will be her biggest and best.
Buena Vista Social Club at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 7 April 2015
An ensemble of traditional Cuban musicians seeking to recreate the legendary spirit of the Havana members club that closed in the 1940s and which the ensemble is named after. It was so successful in the 1990s that it spawned a brand and an award-winning film.
Mike and The Mechanics at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 9 April 2015
Initially a soft-rock supergroup formed in the 1980s by Mike Rutherford of Genesis. Rutherford reformed the band in 2010 around a new set of musicians.
Circa Waves at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 11 April 2015
Having recently played to a sold-out Kazimier, Circa Waves, one of Liverpool fasted rising stars, return with their biggest headline tour to date. The tour is in support of the band’s debut album which is scheduled for release early this year.
Seasick Steve at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 12 April 2015
An American bluesman, studio engineer and record producer, Seasick Steve has constructed a mythical background as an American hobo and traveller riding the boxcars looking for work. How much of this is true is open to debate with many suggesting it a cynical marketing ploy. In the 1980s and 1990s Seasick Steve worked on several indie releases while based in Seattle, including a number of Modest Mouse LPs.
Ben Howard at Liverpool Echo Arena – 13 April 2015
Singer-songwriter from Devon who appears to be successfully making the transition away from nice but fairly unremarkable acoustic folk music to something more challenging and electronic. Recent reviews of his gigs have been encouraging and show an interesting career trajectory.
Turbowolf at O2 Academy 2, Liverpool – 14 April 2015
Distinctive Bristol-based band with an eclectic style that encompasses elements of rock ‘n’ roll, heavy metal, electronica and psychedelia. Turbowolf hit the road in support of their forthcoming album Two Hands which is due out in April.
Blue Rose Code at Leaf Cafe – 15 April 2015
Blue Rose Code is the performing name of Ross Wilson a Scottish-born London-based urban folk poet that is part-James Yorkston, part-John Martyn and part-King Creosote. His latest album, The Ballads of Peckham Rye, offers a moving and personal story of musical redemption.
Mark Morriss at Arts Club – 17 April 2015
Former Bluetones singer Mark Morriss has reinvented himself as a solo artist and will be touring in support of his second solo LP, A Flash of Darkness, which was released in 2014.
The Wombats at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 18 April 2015
If you missed out on The Wombats sold out January show then fear not as the boys are set to hit the Academy in April for a headline show that should find them at the top of their game.
The Hollies at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 18 April 2015
Legendary Manchester band who took the distinctive Merseybeat sound a few miles along the East Lancashire Road in the early 1960s. Now performing without founding members Graham Nash and Allan Clarke, the band have never officially broken up or stopped recording.
Matthew E White at Leaf Cafe – 18 April 2015
Hailing Richmond, Virginia and founder of Spacebomb Records, Matthew E White returns to Leaf to promote the follow up to his 2013 instant classic Big Inner. His new LP, Fresh Blood, will be released on Domino in March. Check out our show preview here.
Polar Bear at The Kazimier – 19 April 2015
Experimental British jazz outfit. Held on the Tips of Fingers the band’s sophomore LP was something of a crossover success and received a Mercury Prize nomination in 2005.
Michael Ball at Liverpool Auditorium – 19 April 2015
English stage and musical performer best known for Aspects of Love and the song Love Changes Everything.
Young Kato at Studio 2 – 20 April 2015
Cheltenham indie-pop band whose 2013 gig at the Barfly in London’s Camden Town was featured in reality TV show Made In Chelsea.
Prong at O2 Academy 2, Liverpool – 22 April 2015
Highly influential American metal band that formed in 1986. Prong have had a strong influence over the likes of Korn, Nine Inch Nails and Demon Hunter.
FIVE at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 22 April 2015
British boyband founded in late 1990s by the same team that introduced the world to The Spice Girls. The group reformed in 2012 for a second money-spinning reunion.
Bellowhead at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 24 April 2015
English eleven-piece contemporary folk outfit that play a range of traditional folk songs and shanties. Bellowhead have become renowned for their energetic live performances.
The Twilight Sad at The Kazimier – 28 April 2015
A welcome return for the Scottish noisesmiths following their excellent gig last year. Latest album Nobody Wants To Be Here and Nobody Wants To Leave is terrific and as good as anything they’ve ever done. Just remember your ear-plugs.
The Vamps at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 28 April 2015
British pop group who found fame via YouTube and have subsequently been compared to One Direction.
Calexico at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 1 May 2015
Americana veterans, Calexico, bring their mariachi-imbued and desert-influenced south-western americana to The Philharmonic Hall next May. Check out our preview for more details.
Damage at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 1 May 2015
Blimey, another boyband who have reformed. We’ll let you decide if they’re in it for the money or the artistic credibility.
Beth Hart at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 3 May 2015
Blues and jazz influenced American singer-songwriter from California.
Moon Duo at The Kazimier – 4 May 2015
A welcome Liverpool return for Ripley Johnson (of Wooden Shjips fame) and his wife Sanae Yamada. They were mightily impressive playing to a packed out Camp and Furnace at Liverpool Psych Fest a couple of years ago. This will be mega, be in no doubt.
Al Stewart at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 5 May 2015
Scottish singer-songwriter who played a prominent role in the folk revivalist scene of the late 1960s and early 1970s and is perhaps best known for his 1976 single Year of the Cat.
Foxygen at The Kazimier – 7 May 2015
LA’s Foxygen bring their irreverent and quirky take on late 60s psychedelia to The Kazimier in May. The boys’ latest LP, …And Star Power is a sprawling double album that heads off in about ten different directions at once. Check out our preview for more details.
Chris De Burgh at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 8 May 2015
British-Irish singer songwriter who has sold in excess of 45 million albums worldwide yet remains best known for his 1986 love song Lady in Red.
Lulu at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 11 May 2015
60s fashion icon Lulu is enjoying a bit of a career revival following the use of her first hit Shout during the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in 2014. Lulu‘s best known song is the Eurovision song contest winning Boom Bang-a-Bang.
S Club 7 at Echo Arena, Liverpool – 13 May 2015
Simon Fuller founded pop group in cynical big arena reunion tour.
KYC Presents: Liverpool Light Night at Bombed Out Church, Liverpool – 15 May 2015
Monster KYC takeover of music, art and light displays at St. Luke’s for Liverpool Light Night, their second year running. Line-up featuring Bella Union‘s Bernard and Edith, Moats, RongoRongo, Aldous RH, LIVES and Asterisks, as well as a dot. takeover (feat. special guest) to take things into the early hours. Expect jaw-dropping sounds, sights and lights.
Don Maclean at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 23 May 2015
Legendary American singer-songwriter best known for his early 70s compositions American Pie and Vincent.
Chas & Dave at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 25 May 2015
Rockney duo Chas & Dave will no doubt turn the O2 Academy into an old-fashioned music hall when they show up in Liverpool next May.
Bryan Ferry at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 26 May 2015
Former Roxy Music frontman turns up in support of his latest album, Avonmore, which was released in November last year. Following the Jazz reinterpretations of his older songs on The Jazz Age, Avonmore is principally comprised of original material.
Maroon 5 at The Echo Arena, Liverpool – 29 May 2015
American pop and rock group formed California in the 1990s. The band have won three Grammy awards and count the likes of Prince, Justin Timberlake and The Police as influences over their sound.
Young Fathers at The Kazimier – 7 June 2015
Mercury Prize winners Young Fathers are set to make a triumphant return to Liverpool. People still talk about how great their last show was so make sure you don’t miss out on their return visit.
Atomic Kitten at O2 Academy, Liverpool – 12 June 2015, 13 June 2015
Recently reunited Liverpool pop outfit who were initially formed by Andy McCluskey from OMD.
Elvis Costello at The Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool – 15 June 2015
Acclaimed singer, songwriter and punk and new wave pioneer returns to his one time home to play the Phil next summer. One of this country’s greatest lyricists, Costello has frequently adapted and reinvented himself. This has ensured that his musical output has remained forever interesting and attention worthy.
Mama Roux at Magnet, Liverpool – 20th June
Our favourite voodoo shamans Mama Roux launch their brand new self-titled EP with help from fellow fast-risers The Springtime Anchorage and The Stamp, while UPtiGHt! DJs keep the party going well into the early hours with the best of 60s soul, funk and rock to take the party well into the night. A stellar bill with some of Liverpool’s very best emerging talent for only a fiver.
