Together with a team of incredible music industry professionals I am organising the second edition of Newcastle’s music, comedy, and spoken word festival Aelius Alternative on Saturday the 5th of April and we have just announced our full line-up!
Fast rising locals CROWLEY, WOLFRED, and TV DEATH will be headlining across 4 venues and 5 stages; The Globe Up, The Globe Down, Head of Steam, The Telegraph and ZEROX’ Shooting Gallery are all playing their part in highlighting a selection of incredible musical talents. Artists on the line-up include Nadedja, spoken word artists Sam Way and Tahmina Ali, Rushbonds, and White Collar Rebel.
We will once again be collaborating with international live music promoters Sofar Sounds on a secret stage, as well as local comic Adrian Hanlon who’ll be curating and hosting the comedy stage. Sunderland’s NAME Academy will be sending two acts to Newcastle, French music platform Groover will be taking their pick of international acts to perform, Off Axis are taking care of the Scottish delegation to join us in the festivities, and The Pentatonic will be sending Uno Mas to Newcastle.
This year, we are working with national organisation Tonic Music for Mental Health on highlighting the importance of mental health services within the music industry. Aelius Alternative partners include Groover, Love Music Hate Racism North East, Microbus Gateshead, NAME Sunderland, Night Owl Music Promotions, Off Axis Scotland, The Pentatonic and W Artists.
The true value of conferences such as Tees Music Alliance’s On Point Conference is meeting the professionals that might not always seem within reach. With professionals from all over the country attending and taking part in the round table sessions, the conference offered us all the opportunity to connect with the people that work at organisations such as Help Musicians, Musician’s Union, PRS Foundation, and BAPAM – British Association for Performing Arts Medicine.
During the round table element of On Point Conference, I spoke to David at Help Musicians, who told me about the different initiatives Help Musicians offers. The organisation focuses on supporting artists and helping them develop their career, as well as improve their business skills. Help Musicians also offer funding for creative projects and support anyone who works in music through sister organisation Music Minds Matter. A great tip David gave on what to do when applying for funding is to always keep in mind that the person reading your application knows nothing about you, so make sure to include all that’s relevant.
One of the great organisations I first got introduced to at On Point, was BAPAM, I spoke to Dan about the organisation, their goals, services, and struggles. BAPAM offers free specialist, confidential medical advice, clinics for musicians at The Glasshouse ICM as well as free therapy sessions for musicians. The organisation also offers advice and resources on many different health-related topics for creative professionals, including tips on performance training during the winter. The charity aims to improve the health of our arts community and maintain its creative excellence, a focus I think is incredibly important these days.
At the same table sat Philip who is a musician and works for the Musician’s Union. I’ve never truly looked into their activities so it was wonderful speaking to an employee about the things they can do for the local industry. The organisation offers insurance for members, short term loans, benevolent funds, parental funds and contract advisory. Something Philip confirmed for me was that any written agreement counts as a contract, as long as the offer, consideration, acceptance, intent, and capacity has been noted down. Philip mentioned how also promoters and event organisers can benefit from insurance when hiring venues, and how sadly, when a festival goes into liquidation they indeed do not need to pay any fees owed to performers. My tip when you sign a contract with a festival or event organiser? Make sure there’s a person on the contract instead of a business.
Aside from the helpful tips and tricks the above professionals shared with me, most of all they inspired me to keep working in, and supporting, the music industry.
Tees Music Alliance and The Georgian Theatre collaborated on another inspiring music conference. On Point Conference took place on the last Friday of January and inspired me once again as well as connected me to those that inspire me within the northern music industry. The term ‘conference’ might sound intimidating but with a bunch of fantastic professionals and official wingman David Saunders, there’s nothing to be intimidated by.
On the panel about Dual Dynamism several northern industry professionals spoke, Supercat PR’s Matty talked about how it’s important for artists to utilise all social media platforms and to support those that support you in relation to PR specifically. “There’s no right or wrong way, focus on what excites you as a musician.” Radio DJ Shell added to that; “Have a strategy and a plan, block out periods of time for content creation and schedule posts, use the power of a mailing list, and be your authentic self on and offline.” Head of EMI North Scott Lewis highlighted an individual and different approach, “Take a different approach, support each other, and stay true to yourself.” No matter what your social media reach, just having a following most often doesn’t pay the bills, for performing artists live performances, merchandise, and syncs are where the money’s at. Scott continued, “Build a community around you and utilise your friends and family to help you with for example design, photo- and videography. Lean on the fear of missing out and make sure that those who pay for a ticket get a show they won’t soon forget. Make your gigs a social event, an event people want to be at.”
Wipe Out Publishing Marketing Manager Pippa Morgan mentioned the usage of a platform called Archive which pulls footage from social media, as well as a tool to automate direct messages sent to fans. To that, Matty added the data we can pull from streaming platforms, “to have an idea where your fans are based, and your most popular platform will give you an idea of the demographic that enjoys your music and art.” The consensus of this panel came down to how plans can give you a focus, and help you to look back on what you’ve already achieved, making sure you’re not drowning in big hopes and dreams that feel unattainable. On plans, Matty added that they shouldn’t feel like something that could not possibly move or change, but that they give you direction and help you make the most out of for example a new release. “Make sure to have more than one single recorded, so that you’re not stopping and starting continuously. Play as many shows and supports so that you’ll be rehearsed and ready when opportunities come in.”
On the next panel subjects include maintaining momentum, gaining financial stability and taking care of ones well being. A new organisation in the form of BAPAM is introduced to me, next to manager and sync specialist Chelsea Wood, PRS Foundation’s Lloyd Francis, and local artist Nadedja. Nadedja is a great example of an artist who’s been open about managing a work-life-social media balance, “I do what makes me feel good, and focus on a clear goal while trying not to compare myself to others. I choose opportunities that make sense for me and my career.” Chelsea makes sure to know her artists on a personal level when working as an artist manager, “the rat race never stops, so it’s important to zoom out and take time off, even though that might make you miss out on opportunities.” Dan added to that that people, and artists in particular, should act before things get to their worst, if you’re unwell, act, don’t simply push through, because the problem will only get worse.
On maintaining financial stability a common theme was to diversify and multiply income streams, options you have as an artist are to sell merchandise, this could be print on demand to minimise costs, and look at sync opportunities. Chelsea mentioned; “Don’t rely on funding, and think about getting a music lawyer.” Some music lawyers would be happy to work pro bono, and they are well connected within the industry which gives you the opportunity to extend your network. On collaborating with other professionals, audience-member Helen mentioned; “work with people you like and make sure that there is a need for what you’d like to do.” Dan added; “Communicate openly and set boundaries when you’re collaborating. To protect your mental and physical health, reach out to organisations such as Music Minds Matter, and make sure to stretch and warm up before a gig.” To add a last note on maintaining financial stability, Chelsea mentioned to not be afraid of change and to do what works for you as an artist, Lloyd added that PRS supports “risky pivots”, and Nadedja highlighted that not everything has to be for you, and that you have to do what feels comfortable and at the same time excites you.
Conferences might feel overwhelming, but when you take notes, be present, and introduce yourself to new connections, they can make a great deal of difference within your musical, or creative career. On Point Conference, organised by Tees Music Alliance, has always been a favourite, not just because it’s local, but also because of its caliber of speakers. With people that have just graduated, entered the scene, to those having worked within the creative industries for years, they all offer their own experience and perspective, and it’s always exciting and inspiring for me to connect with those that are like-minded and just as passionate as me about working in music.
Recently I reached out to Fever UK responding to a call out for freelance Stage Managers, and this week they got back to me with a last minute job in Dublin to which I simply couldn’t say no. Their touring production We Call It Ballet needed someone to take care of cast, crew, and intricate costumes, and with January being a slow month my calendar had the exact amount of time and space for such a job.
I flew out to Dublin on Wednesday, arriving at a nearly empty Newcastle Airport, went through without a hitch and arrived in Dublin in the early evening. Despite the city having already been covered in the dark, luckily there were still plenty of decorative lights lighting up its streets. As I’ve visited the city a few times before I already knew the areas I wanted to revisit, I enjoyed a slow evening stroll before an early night. My impeccable travel planning skills saw my hostel based a two minute walk from the venue the next day, so after a good night’s sleep I found a local café for my morning latte before heading to the venue. The O’Reilly Theatre is based inside the Belvedere College which doesn’t look as impressive from the outside as it looks on the inside. Not too large, not too small, the theatre looks neat and modern with a spacious stage.
After we had loaded all tech, gear, costumes and props, all teams went full steam ahead, the dancers arrived early, fitted their costumes, we sorted some last minute technical issues such as the replacing of batteries… And started show number 1 right on time! We Call It Ballet combines classical ballet with modern technology to create a stunning dance and light show, and it was a true privilege working with the incredible dancers and crew and experiencing the show twice from the wings.
Without major glitches we got through both shows, after which it was time to return the theatre to its original state. I then returned to my accommodation to comedown from what was a tiring but exciting day of work! Interested in experiencing We Call It Ballet yourself? You can still catch the show in cities all over the world, find your city here!
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Playlists
Allen Peterson Reviews • Angel Dust • Apollo’s Folklore • Artistas independentes • Beat Waves • BerlinPlaylists • Best of 2024 • Billroads • Bookshelf by Chromind • Buzzy Band • CAGE RIOT • De Ochtendschijn • Discovery on Musik Galaxie • Dulaxi Entertainment • Electric Roadtrip • Euphony Top Charts • Folk & Strings • Folk Matters by mesmerized • FVMusicBlog • Hot Folk/ Country • Indie Kingdom • Indie Music Flix • JYLA MUSIC • KIMU New Music Spotlight • Lacavernamx • Land For Miles • Latest Release • Lyrical Landscapes • Melody Lens • Muse Chronicle • Music For All • New Indie Radar • Odyssey Magazine • Os Garotos de Liverpool • OVERVIEWisontheradio • PopHits • Princess • Project Timbre • RGMS Radio • Roadie Music • Rustic Serenade • Sinusoidal’s Monthly Mix • songplode • SoundTulip • The Musical Road • TJLP FRESH! • True Heat • Ultimate Rock Jams • You! Me! Dancing! • Ze Rock Porto
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Reviews
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Playlists
Apollo’s Rock Galaxies • Artistas independentes • Bad Wolf Records • Beat Waves • Billroads • Black Fruit Promotions • Buzzy Band • Discovery on Musik Galaxie • Electric Roadtrip • Elsa Vibes • Euphony Top Charts • Given to Rock • Guitar Thunder • Hazy Indie by mesmerized • Indie Dock Music Blog • Indie Music Flix • Indie Noise Nation • Indiefferential Picks • JYLA MUSIC • KIMU New Music Spotlight • lacavernamx • Latest Release • Lost In The Manor • Muse Chronicle • Music Alternative For All • Music Balans • MusikePOOL • NewIndieRadar • Odyssey Magazine • Os Garotos de Liverpool • Pitch Perfect • POP by FVMusicBlog • PopHits • Press Play! • Princess • Public Pressure • Rising Artists Music Blog • Roadie Music • Rock • Rock Revolutionaries • Screaming Hearts • Sinusoidal’s Rock Mix • SoundTulip • Testing Rock • The Best Rock • The Musical Road • Time To Indie • TJPL FRESH! • Tune Oasis • Ultimate Rock Jams • Unleash the Fury • You! Me! Dancing • Ze Rock Porto Recommends
“Through thought-provoking images and emotions, this beautifully written exploration soars with some of the most poetic lines possible. With nods towards the inevitability of death and both the fears and comfort that come with accepting it, there’s so much depth to behold. The slow acoustic guitar plucks gently push things along akin to life itself, a little groove behind their intermittent strings while Jacob’s soaring rich vocals captivate front and centre. With a little Frank Sinatra reminiscence, it’s hard to turn this new elaborate single off.” – Review on Existential Magazine
“The manufacturing is minimalist yet impactful, with ambient layers that underscore the uncooked emotional weight of Edward’s performance. The track’s pacing mirrors the journey it describes, ebbing and flowing just like the chapters of a unique.” – Review on Kindline Magazine
“Folk songwriter Jacob D. Edward, hailing from The Netherlands, showcases his skill with acoustics on his latest single ‘Musings’. As a lyrically rich melody, the deeper meaning is a fascinating one to follow, highlighting the concept of a ‘secret love’ and underlining feelings of envy and frustration.” – Review on LaMusique
“Jacob D. Edward’s latest single, ‘Musings’, is a great folk track that delves into the complexities of hidden love and unspoken emotions. With bluesy guitar modulations and raw, vulnerable lyrics, the song invites listeners into a world of secret desires and unexpressed feelings.” – Review on NottsRocks
“Opting for unnatural harmonics in the intro, Jacob proves that sometimes less is more. With just his guitar, haunting backing vocals, and deep voice, he crafts a reflective, yearning atmosphere—capturing what he describes as “melancholia with a smile.”” – Review on Right Chord Music
‘Musings’ is Jacob D. Edward’s song about hidden desire. It is about the miscommunication that can occur when feelings are not expressed. ‘Musings’ is the sound to the frustration, envy.
On ‘Musings’, Jacob D. Edward adds: “The focus on the song is how the instrumentality connects to the lyrical meaning. The song is about hidden romance. Secret loves comes with a variety of emotions, and this song envelops them all.” This song is about the romantic feelings that Jacob D. Edward harbours for his backup singer. “Because the song is about my singer, I felt completely naked while recording it. I recorded the album with her as well and I knew she is going to hear it for what it is, which scares the crap out of me. The song is both literal and symbolic. Throughout I paint metaphors that explain to the listener how I feel about my backup singer and about how our relationship works. When I sing ‘As she is struggling to dance on her wire’ I made a mistake while singing and we decided to keep it into the recording. It felt a bit daunting to put out something that is not entirely polished.”
“Bringing back more of that bold and anthemic indie-rock energy he is known for, ‘Cold’ makes for a stellar return to form for him. With its bright and shimmering hooks layered throughout, he is certainly looking to get us up and out of our seats with this one.” – Review on FLEX
“Harrison Rimmer’s new single, Cold, is a powerful mix of rock energy and raw honesty, showing the artist’s journey through personal challenges.” – Review on Rock Era Mag
“Lyrically it dwells on the work required to get better mentally and was written partly after Harrison had his first panic attack. Yet, it’s also a track that you can dance to and draws from the likes of Springsteen and Frank Turner. Its tempo is relentless and its acoustic riffs lively. Harrison really goes for it with his expressive vocals, particularly during a singalong chorus.” – Review on York Calling
Harrison Rimmer is following up the release of his last single ‘Tough Love’ with new single ‘Cold’. The single is taken from his upcoming sophomore album ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’. This song is raw, angsty, and has teeth. Musically it draws inspiration from the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Frank Turner and City & Colour, a musical pallet many Harrison Rimmer fans have grown to know as his bread and butter, but the difference this time around is in the lyrics, it’s a style some Harrison Rimmer fans haven’t heard for a while.
Harrison’s mission with ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’ has been to have the music be fun and energetic, to be the listener’s escape, but the lyrics to be the crack in the door with them being raw and honest. ‘Cold’ displays this perfectly. Harrison says, “If ‘Tough Love’ was the rallying cry, ‘Cold’ is what happens when you’re in the thick of doing the work. I used to call this my Frankenstein’s Monster. Some of the lyrics were written after my first panic attack and some were written later during a time in my life when I despised myself and the man I was becoming. So I pulled the mirror up and began to start putting the work in. I started to plot and move on with my life and to be more true and authentic to who I am, no matter how uncomfortable it made me. I feel like I’ve captured that moment in ‘Cold’.”
Musically it’s fun and punchy, hell you can sing and dance to it if you wanted, but lyrically, lyrically is where Harrison really wanted to get listeners. “Did those words make me uncomfortable? Absolutely, but in writing them I set myself free. I got stuck into conversations with my friends, family and started therapy, and even exercising regularly. Those factors became driving forces for not only this song and album, but for myself going forwards.”
LLIVELY Music 