Tis the season to party!
With lots of holiday celebrations to look forward this month there’s every excuse to treat yourself to a night out, and with plenty of venues offering up a Christmas bonanza of great bands there’s no reason not to.
As far as the arena gigs go, Kasabian will be returning to Manchester’s Phones 4u Arena after their success at Glastonbury this year. There’s still some tickets left for December 12, even in the lower tiers, but hurry if you want to attend. Legendary rockers Status Quo will be playing at First Direct Arena Leeds on December 10 and Glasgow band Deacon Blue will be ending their A New House tour at Liverpool Echo Arena on December 21.
Smaller venues are putting on a good show too. There’s still a few tickets left for Peter Hook and The Light on December 9 at Hebden Bridge Trades Club and Echo and the Bunnymen are playing O2 Academy Newcastle on December 11.
For a more unconventional music experience the celebrated Kazimier venue is opening a new arts, music and events space in Liverpool North Docks called the Invisible Wind Factory on December 13. While details remain under wraps about the grand opening, it will feature artists who combine music and visual arts and is likely to be an amazing event.
For a bit of a Christmas do then why not take part in “Britain’s biggest and funkiest Christmas Party” on December 13 at the Craig Charles Funk & Soul Christmas Ball featuring acts such as Soul II Soul ft. Caron Wheeler and Jazzie B plus a full live band at Blackpool Winter Gardens. Or jam away on December 12 at Manchester’s Band on the Wall at Night of the Living Dread with DJs playing all kinds of Reggae tunes.
For a bit of classical folk rock the Moulettes will be playing at The Met, Bury on December 13, and for a nostalgia trip there’s the The Stranglers early days tribute band Straighten Out who will be playing at The Cluny, Newcastle on December 27.
And why not take the kids to see The Snowman at The Sage Gateshead or The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester. Watch the classic animated film on the big screen, accompanied live by Royal Northern Sinfonia on December 22-24, or with the Halle Orchestra on December 23.
Merry Christmas!
Peter Hook image by Chris Payne
If you would like your band or venue included in next month’s preview then send links, blogs and press releases to stephaniealderson@northernsoul.me.uk
