Weekly Newsletter - w/c Monday 3 August

August is well and truly in full swing, and as the summer heat lingers, the Leeds music scene is showing no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re looking to discover your next favourite band in a basement or fancy catching some world-class musicianship in a cosy club, there’s plenty to keep your ears busy this week.

The Week Ahead: From Jazz to Garage Punk

If you’re looking to kick things off, Open Mic at Northern Guitars on Monday is the perfect way to get involved. It’s always the friendliest spot in town for a bit of local talent.

Mid-week is looking particularly strong for those who like their music with a bit of grit. On Wednesday, Meatbodies are bringing their fuzz-driven, garage-psychedelic sound to the Hyde Park Book Club. If you’re a fan of Osees or Ty Segall, this is a must-see. For something a bit more intimate, Nell Davies & Fishing For Compliments are also playing Northern Guitars on Wednesday, offering a lovely blend of riot-grrrl energy and catchy indie-folk.

Thursday brings a fascinating mix of international talent. We have Chicago’s own Chaepter bringing their post-punk friction to the Hyde Park Book Club, while the Domino Club is hosting A Love Supreme Ft: Another Workout for a night of classic Blue Note jazz.

As we slide into the weekend, Friday night at the Hyde Park Book Club looks like a highlight with Coupdekat & samxemma’s Goodbye 2012! Tour, featuring support from local favourites Lucky Iris. It’s set to be a high-energy celebration of Y2K nostalgia and hyperpop.

Finally, Saturday marks a massive day for the scene with the Thnks Fr Th Mmrs Fstvl North at the Hyde Park Book Club, bringing together some of the best tributes to the pop-punk and emo era. If you’re after something heavier, Hacktivist + Waterlines at the Lending Room will be delivering a crushing mix of grime and metalcore.

Just Announced

The calendar is already filling up for the autumn and beyond. We’ve had some cracking announcements this week that you’ll want to get in your diaries.

If you’re a fan of alternative art-rock, Peter Cat are bringing their cinematic sound to The Pack Horse on Saturday 17th October. For those who prefer a jazzier vibe, Obere are making a highly anticipated return to Northern Guitars on Wednesday 23rd September.

Halloween is also looking sorted, with the return of Dark Arts at Belgrave Music Hall on Saturday 31st October, featuring a stellar lineup including Walt Disco and Heartworms. And for those looking even further ahead, the legendary Ride will be hitting the O2 Academy on Tuesday 16th February 2027.

Whatever you choose to see this week, remember that our local venues are the lifeblood of the city's culture. Get out there, buy a drink at the bar, and support the artists keeping the scene alive. See you at the front!