Join Mercury Prize shortlisted Geordie Jazz band Knats for an in-conversation and listening party exploring the tracks, stories and inspirations behind the album, growing up in Newcastle’s West End, and the people, places and experiences that have shaped their sound.
F54 celebrates the North’s deep bond with industrial sound. Transforming post-industrial collapse into a creative sanctuary, these three acclaimed artists bridge regional heritage with a futuristic sonic pulse. Expect euphoric and cathartic electronica in its rawest form, defined by mechanical, repetitive rhythms that echo the psyche of the North. Once forged in iron and steel, the region remains a haven for synthesised innovation. Lineup: Nadine Hurley – Crimewave – Sin Clair
Public House Hi-Fi welcomes Tom Caulker, founder of Newcastle’s World Headquarters, for a two-part event tracing a life spent sharing music through records and his impact on Newcastle’s music culture. The afternoon begins with a seated listening session on the Public House Hi-Fi sound system, with Tom sharing records that shaped his career and the stories behind them. Residents Diz and Vinny Vins then play records they first heard Tom play and which influenced their own musical paths. At 6pm, the deck chairs clear and Tom takes control for a five-hour, all-evening set. Lineup: Tom Caulker - Diz Jockey - Vinny Vins
The session combines a 30-minute illustrated talk with a hands-on collage workshop. Jimmy shares the creative process behind record sleeves, single artwork, music videos and visual identities before guiding participants through his Dice & Disruption methodology. Using found imagery, typography and chance-based prompts, participants will create an original album or single sleeve while exploring how visual ideas respond to sound, mood and storytelling. Suitable for designers, illustrators, musicians, students and anyone developing a playful, experimental creative practice.
As part of the Mercury Prize celebrations, a cohort of young people will come together to plan, produce and deliver their own live gig, gaining hands-on experience of what it takes to bring a live event to life. From artist liaison and advancing to production, programming, promotion and everything in between, the cohort will be involved throughout the process, developing practical skills and insight into the live music industry. The programme is being delivered with the support of Notion Live Events, who will work alongside the cohort to share their expertise, guidance and experience, helping the next generation of live event professionals build the skills and confidence to deliver their own shows. Lineup: Nano Kino
