While live music in the North is having a bit of an existential crisis (donate here) in the wake of COVID-19 - new artists and new music is still flourishing in these uncertain times. Our writers have been on a mission to find the best new acts from across the region, covering the most exciting artists from a wide variety of sounds - from indie to punk and R&B.

Denmarc Creary

Born in Jamaica, and raised in Leeds, Denmarc Creary is already on the path to building something really special. Having started writing music during his high school years, his sound has developed into a blend of R&B, rap and dancehall. On stage, he has already supported the likes of Denzel Curry, Saul Williams and Stormzy, to name a few. His stand out performance though, came when he performed at BBC 1Xtra Live in Leeds. With a prolific work ethic - dropping four EPs since 2017 - Denmarc Creary has become a favourite of BBC Introducing, with his recent single ‘Winna’ named their track of the week. His new single ‘Right Outside’ was released recently - continuing his run of infectious bangers.

Words: Hayley Ashworth

The C33s

The C33s are an alternative punk band from Manchester consisting of Judy Jones (drums, vocals), Cav Green (guitar, vocals) and Ste Phillips (bass). The eclectic band are inspired by a variety of musical styles and in 2018 they sparked people’s attention with their first EP, 48 Hours at Neon Palms. Since then - and their live debut at Jimmy’s Bar in Manchester - they have continued to cultivate a following with their explosive mix of garage punk. The constant dual Green/Jones vocals is unrelenting and furious, and will seduce hard punk and rock lovers. Their latest single ‘Harpurhey Hostility’ continues their frantic energy and is a great place to start for those new to their music.

Words: Ornella Bou

Adelphi Music Factory

Adelphi Music Factory are an industrial northern music collective comprised of an extremely talented crew of DJs and producers. Their ‘The Gospel House Trilogy’ - ‘Javelin’, ‘Feel Right Now’ and ‘Salvation’ - kickstarted the collective into becoming one of the most respected electronic outfits in the UK. Support from Annie Mace has boosted the profile of the mysterious group, who have become an essential live act - with a number of sold-out gigs throughout the country. Considering their first single only dropped back in 2018, Adelphi Music Factory have really come a long way in a short space of time. With each release developing in scope, there is definitely more to come from the collective.

Words: Hayley Ashworth

Broken Piano

Since emerging in 2019, Broken Piano have gone from strength-to-strength, releasing several tracks including their anthemic, techno-inspired debut ‘Overthinking’. The music video for that track highlights what makes Broken Piano such an exciting group, as they contrast nostalgic aesthetics with an eye (and ear) in tune with a modern audience. As with many new artists, Broken Piano are still fine tuning their sound, but that’s was makes them so exciting and intriguing. Check out the aforementioned music video here and also their new single ‘Don’t Forget to Breathe’.

Words: Amelia Dinsdale

Magick Mountain

With their debut album Weird Feelings set to drop later this year, Magick Mountain are an ethereal and hypnotic powerhouse of a three-piece hailing from the mighty Leeds. Their first single from the album King Cobra was released at the beginning of July, with the opening refrain of that track giving a taste of the fuzzy and energetic sound that we can expect on their next project. Having formed in 2016, their sound is raucous and spellbinding, a trip back to the past where guitars dominated, and Dr. Martens trampled across sticky beer-soaked dancefloors. Conjuring visions of space, time and dreamlike landscapes, Magick Mountain’s gritty, grounded and psychedelic sound is sure to have heads turning in 2020.

Words: Clarrie-Rose Plummer

Priestgate

The 5-piece band Priestgate are an up and coming Indie band from Driffield, Yorkshire. Formed in the summer of 2018, they started their career gigging across the North and are in the process of building a dedicated online following. They are yet to release a full project but their new single - ‘Now’ - illustrates a confidence and songwriting ability that hints at an exciting future. They have a distinctive, catchy and melody-led sound, with a clear aesthetic that takes some bands years to develop. This style can be felt across their output, including the evocative music video for ‘Now’. Priestgate are undeniably a band to keep a close eye on.