Join us in the control room at Polestar Studios for a deep dive into what it takes to make an album. Hector Gannet frontman and songwriter Aaron Duff, producer and engineer Alex Blamire and Grammy Award-winning mix engineer Eduardo De La Paz explore the making of 'The Great Shakedown', from songwriting and tracking through to production, mixing, mastering and commercial release.
A full day of conference panels, conversations and behind-the-scenes insights from artists and industry leaders shaping what’s next. Featuring brilliant speakers, special guests and plenty of chances to connect. Whether you're making music, building a career or just getting started, this is where you need to be.
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
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.
Fenwick is proud to partner with the Mercury Prize, bringing the excitement to Newcastle with the Fenwick Fan Zone - created for fellow music obsessives. Set within The Tavern at Fenwick, this Live Lounge-style event invites you to discover the shortlisted albums in a new light, connect with other fans, and enjoy live performances that capture the spirit of Mercury week. Six artists from the North East will be selected through an open call run by Generator, the North’s leading music development agency. Each will perform their own original music alongside an acoustic cover from one of this year’s Mercury Prize-shortlisted albums. Settle in for an afternoon of music, atmosphere and conversation as the city builds towards the biggest night in the UK music calendar. Follow Fenwick on Instagram for more info.
