The Importance of Being Earnest

It’s always tough at the commencement of any artistic journey but there's one thing that remains a constant — the need for those of us who believe music is a living, vital art form to support emerging artists.

A squeeze down memory lane with Chris Difford

We all know music can provide comfort, especially (at times like these) when our day-to-day lives often feel challenging and of course, there’s nothing criminal about music being a source of nostalgic, escapist entertainment. Music’s attraction is different things to different people and it doesn't have to be about something shiny and new and the whole time.

Hector Gannet Live at Hall 2, Sage Gateshead

I spot a bottle of Brown Ale in the crowd, held aloft in a time-honoured salute. A show of kinship and respect for a young Geordie musician who is following in the footsteps of those who have gone before. The songs, though contemporary and original, have their roots in the teachings of Dylan, Neil Young and of course, local hero Alan Hull. The bands love of these forbearers is, I suspect, a big reason why their music connects and why it reaches out to a wide demographic, as evidenced tonight.