Russell HughesRock 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 Russell Hughes picked his top ten shows of 2016:
The Eurovision winners have been around the block and it shows. They produce a slick, surprisingly funny and macabre show that all rock fans should see at some point in their lives.
Young Welsh rockers gave an all-star performance despite their tender years. They have been tipped for big things and you can see why. Keep a keep eye out for them in 2017!
The Virginmarys – o2 Academy 2 Newcastle
Proper guitar driven rock ‘n roll isn’t dead and it’s not going away – you just need to catch The Virginmarys live to see it for yourself.
Lonely The Brave – Think Tank? Riverside
Are this band one of the most intriguing on the circuit right now? These feel-good, uplifting maestros are hot right now and one look at their live show confirms all the hype.
Wolfmother – o2 Academy Newcastle
All the way from Australia come Wolfmother and they’re leading a counter-revolution against pointless throwaway tunes. It’s been a while since they played in Newcastle but it was worth the wait as they shredded like there was no tomorrow.
Press to MECO and Max Raptor – Think Tank?
These duo may sound different but the result on the crowd is the same and put together they’re a match made in heaven.
Royal Republic – Newcastle University Students’ Union
It’s rare that a support act upstages the main band but Royal Republic are no ordinary group. The Swedes are red hot and leave everything out on the stage while frontman Adam Grahn has to be one of the most charismatic lead singers of his generation.
Electric Six – o2 Academy Newcastle
The Gay Bar veterans keep on coming back for more and each time they’re more delightful. Heavily reliant on Dick Valentine, the Detroit natives are funny in their own way and still as sharp as ever.
Band of Skulls – Northumbria Students’ Union
The Southampton four-piece show that sometimes nice guys can win the day with a brilliantly executed set-list. Sometimes you don’t realise how good a band are until you see them live and Band of Skulls blew everyone away.
Twin Atlantic – Newcastle Students’ Union
Twin Atlantic have evolved as a band but their live performance hasn’t changed. The Scottish rockers have the chemistry, stage craft and dedication to build a strong and loyal following and they still rock, hard.