Rock gigs in Newcastle in 2016 were a bit like busses – none for an age and then three appear at once, but the city has still been treated to some fantastic shows over the last twelve months. RUSHONROCK’s Adam Keys picked his top ten shows of 2016:

Frank Turner – Northumbria University 

Endless touring has led to supreme stage presence, exceptional sound and a live show like no one else. Frank’s standards never drop – a shining example to musicians everywhere.

Brian Fallon – o2 Academy Newcastle 

Light hearted fun and responsive of his audience – All backed up by great music as Fallon played the entirety of his debut album, delivering one of the best shows the Academy has seen for years.

Billy Talent – o2 Academy Newcastle 

Engergy, passion and political rants – Billy Talent are a band that never seem to age, and their enthusiasm only continues to grow. Long may it continue!

Skinny Lister – The Cluny

The perfect venue and the perfect band. Skinny Lister has got the spirit and passion of faux Irish punk down to a T! If you haven’t been to one of their shows, it’s time you give yourself a good shake!

Beans On Toast – The Cluny

One of Newcastle’s best watering holes provided the ideal platform for everyone’s favourite drunk folk singer in his annual show at the Ouseburn venue.

Feeder – Newcastle University 

Feeder are back, looking fresher and sharper than ever before, and even with an odd crowd of non-gig goers, they had the whole venue bouncing.

Frightened Rabbit – Riverside Newcastle

Melodic indie rock at its finest, a frontman who doesn’t give a shit and audience in total appreciation of the talent on show – what more can you ask for?

The Quireboys – Think Tank Newcastle 

Unplugged and intimate, the veteran Geordie rockers give a brilliant performance with a vocal master class from Spike who controlled the room with an effortless sense of cool.

The Sheepdogs – The Cluny

Blues rock soaked in a southern coating, in a venue that specialises in craft beer and real ales – there was no excuse for not having a great night! 

Bowling For Soup – o2 Academy Newcastle 

They may have become a bit of a comedy act, but they had some brilliant hits in their day and still sell out the Academy every year. There’s no denying these guys know how to put on a show!