By Vicky Greer.
Live music is the perfect escapism. Not long ago, I was out in the wind and the cold on my way to Vinilo Record Store to see DITZ’s instore. My shoes we soaked through, and if I’m honest, I did consider packing it all in and going home to a warm cup of tea. But as soon as I stepped into the shop, I forgot about how wet my socks were, how bedraggled my hair was and whether or not I could feel my fingers. I was in another world.
This month, Southampton welcome bands whose careers are only just beginning, alongside others whose journey is coming to an end. Here are our picks for February. Do also check out what else is on across the city this weekend, which also takes in the end of this year’s Independent Venue Week, running until February 2nd.
Saturday 1st – KAWALA, Engine Rooms
Rather ironically, February begins with a goodbye of sorts as London’s KAWALA (pictured top) embark on the first stop of their farewell tour at Engine Rooms. Their final album, ‘KAWALA Collection’ is released the day before, but the band aren’t saying goodbye without a party.
No doubt we will hear from the members of KAWALA in the future as they explore new adventures, but before they go, there’s still time to grab the last few tickets to their goodbye party in Southampton.
More info here.
Tuesday 11th – Luvcat, Heartbreakers
With only three singles out on Spotify, Luvcat is at the very beginning of her journey, but she’s already caught the attention of the live music scene after touring with baroque-pop showstoppers The Last Dinner Party. Matching their romantic, somewhat gothic lyricism, Luvcat is heavily inspired by Nick Cave and The Cure, among others. Luvcat is bringing her glamour and whimsy to Heartbreakers this month.
Tickets here.
Wednesday 12th – Heartworms, Joiners
Up next is another incredibly buzzy name taking over the UK live circuit. Heartworms – the solo project of Jojo Ormes – combines dark and gothic post-punk with a keen interest in history and storytelling. Her shows are less like traditional gigs, and more like invitations into a new and slightly terrifying world.
She’ll be performing songs from her upcoming album Glutton For Punishment, an intricately detailed debut that rightfully proclaims Heartworms as the UK’s next great alternative artist.
Pick up a ticket here.
Saturday 15th – Man/Woman/Chainsaw, Joiners
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: we need more a-typical instruments in rock music. So when Man/Woman/Chainsaw walked onto the stage of the Joiners at last year’s Wanderlust festival with a violin, I knew we were in for something good. And boy, did they live up to that first impression. Catch them on their return to the Joiners on the 15th to hear more of their dramatic and unpredictable sound.
More info here.
Thursday 20th – Fat Dog, The 1865
Continuing the run of exciting newcomers, Fat Dog will be appearing at The 1865 towards the end of the month. Known for their wild live performances, they’ve already opened for the likes of Viagra Boys and Yard Act.
Their debut album, WOOF, solidified their place in the alternative scene with a tantalising mix of dance and punk elements. Tickets are currently sold out, but if you’re looking to get your hands on one you can keep an eye on The 1865’s website.
More info here.
Tuesday 25th – Hinds, Papillon
After releasing their critically adored album VIVA HINDS last year, Madrid indie duo Hinds are coming to Papillon at the end of the month to share their bilingual and endlessly catchy pop-rock morsels. The endlessly fun and addictive album featured contributions from Beck and Fontaines D.C.’s Grian Chatten and saw them reach plenty of year-end favourites lists.
Purchase a ticket here.
Friday 28th – Squid, Engine Rooms
And finally, another indie fave to bring the month to a close. After dazzling the scene in 2021 with their debut album Bright Green Field and follow-up O Monolith, Squid are back at it with their upcoming record, Cowards. They’ll be bringing their new tunes to fans at Engine Rooms, and fans of Black Country, New Road and Goat Girl will not want to miss this.
More information here.
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