Moby – On The Beach
Think of the dance and electronic music that you might have listened to throughout the 21st century, or you continue to listen to now. None of them would exist or be popular without the impact and influence of Moby, whose real name is Richard Melville Hall. It’s no exaggeration whatsoever to say Moby is simply a legend in every sense of the word, and his influence on dance and electronic music will only continue to influence generations to come. Tonight, his first performance in Brighton in 24 years, showcased his genius for us all to see, both in his live musicianship as well as the sheer quality of the tunes he has created over the years.
The Maccabees – On The Beach
When London-based indie rock band played their third and final sold out show at Alexandra Palace in 2017, that was supposed to be it. After all the thrills and frills of their 13 year career, they were done for good. So colour me (and many others) surprised when the band began teasing a return to touring in late 2024. A headline show at All Points East in London, as well as a set closing the Park stage at Glastonbury followed, and everyone was fully ecstatic to see them back playing together. The band enjoyed it just as much, hence a new string of shows were announced all across the UK and Europe. Some of the locations were proper choices too, whether it was the magical Eden Project in Cornwall or right outside where the band initially called it a day at Alexandra Palace Park. Tonight was no different, playing right on Brighton Beach, and thanks to the additional backing of Radio X, it was not only a reminder of the genius that The Maccabees are, but in general a quality day out for any indie music fan.
The Clause – hmv Empire, Coventry
Good things come to those who wait” is a saying almost synonymous with artists who have had to remain patient for their moment in the spotlight. For Birmingham indie-rock band The Clause, they’ve had to wait more than a decade for their moment to be flying high in the sunshine. Their long awaited debut album ‘Victim of a Casual Thing’, released in October last year to commercial fanfare, earning a UK Top 20 and the Number 1 Independent Album in the UK. That’s right, these boys have had to do it all on their own, which in itself is a mightily impressive feat.
Del Water Gap – O2 Institute, Birmingham
While the Brooklyn-based indie-pop starlet has been known for his catchy and bubbly tunes that have soundtracked thousands of people’s playlists, Holden decided to pull things back and show his more vulnerable and emotionally mature side.
The Covasettes – O2 Institute, Birmingham
2026 is a big year for many people, but in the case of Manchester-based indie band The Covasettes, 2026 is the biggest year of their career.
Alex Spencer – The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
What were you doing when you were 19? Chances are, 99% of people won’t have achieved the things that Alex Spencer has already done. From humble beginnings busking on Market Street in Manchester at the age of 12, to playing major festivals like Neighbourhood Weekender and TRNSMT, and even performing at the Etihad Stadium, the Barcelona-born Mancunian (and no, he’s not a relative of Pep Guardiola!) has experienced things that most musicians could only ever dream of.