Desperate and clawing, caught between hopeful and hopeless – “don’tRUSH” is a deeply moody experience. The broken vocals bouncing between speakers and rumbling bass contribute to a tangible dark ambience that meshes seamlessly with the uplifting choral harmony, perfectly conveying the conflicting joy and fear of love, and the contradictory euphoria of it.
Thumping percussion, shredded vocal stings, and driving rhythms make “don’tRUSH” a sensory delight, evocative of nighttime drives and pounding hearts. The aesthetic of “don’tRUSH” is immaculate – laden with resonant symbolism and raw emotion.
“don’tRUSH” is definitely going to “stay with me tonight”
Sugary and chill, “Shadow Dancing” is a warm window on a cold night – self-conscious in the best way possible. The sweet, poetic, and slightly obsessive lyrics about watching a boyfriend’s window and wondering what he’s doing are painfully relatable – and the soft melodic vocals deliver them in a comforting dose of reassurance.
“Shadow Dancing” also happens to be a bop – just as fitting in a club as in a pair of earphones under a blanket. The soft piano drones, snap-click beat, low-key bass, and electronic bleeps make it seem a second “Dancing On My Own”
Do you feel sad sexy? Well, “Shadow Dancing” certainly does.
“New Day” is a song defined by two things: an uplifting message of perseverance and hope, and the jazzy, head-bobbing brass melodies which take you most of the way there. Catchy and heartfelt with a uniquely Reggae spin – “New Day” is focused, purposeful, and powerful in both its message and its delivery.
Praised by BBC Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank, Easy Stride have been mastering their unique sound since 2015, and “New Day” is their version of Soul down to a fine art. The triumphant brass instrumentals, the smooth bassline, the sharp vocals, and the hypnotic piano all come together to make a sound that transcends and uplifts in equal measures.
A perfect vibe – it’s hard to find anything to dislike about “New Day”, especially during that teasingly killer bridge.
The first thing you’ll notice about “Charlie Sheen” is that killer hook sang against a choral melody that’s immediately inviting. Then, the blaring bassline comes in, riffing like a punk-rock “Walk Like an Egyptian”, you start humming the punchy vocals, and suddenly, you have a brand new earworm.
“Charlie Sheen” was featured on BBC Introducing (Leeds and Sheffield), and it’s easy to see why. Thumping, bassy, and ever-shifting – “Charlie Sheen” is an unapologetic riot with a very crunchy guitar. The lyrics – a declaration of being flawed but perfect – are snappy and memorable, complementing the hard riffs especially when the dual vocals kick in.
Gritty and gratifying, “Charlie Sheen” is an instant mood lift for alt-rockers and begs to be heard live.
The surfer vibe is well and truly at home in “I Scream Headache.” A crowd pleaser through and through, with moments clearly made to be screamed in a live audience, this tongue-in-cheek song is pleasantly energetic and irreverently fun – made even better by the surf-rock warbles and pitch bends.
The lyrics are particularly evocative, telling an urban-legend-style tale of a demon ice cream man trading souls for “sweet, sickly” ice cream that makes “everybody lose control”. The manic, train-rattle guitar riffs are hard to resist tapping your foot along to, as are the crashing symbols of the chorus – and the song gets bonus points for using the word “saccharination” in a completely fitting way.
The reverence Zero and the No-Nos has for the 50s rings loud and clear with this spooky, fun track that’s as sweet as ice cream but without the brainfreeze.
Prepare for an unforgettable night of live music as the Kirklees Most Wanted Showcase lights up The Terrace in Dewsbury on February 20th. This eagerly awaited event will spotlight an amazing lineup of homegrown talent, offering a dynamic mix of genres and an electrifying atmosphere for music fans.
Joining us on stage are 4 exceptional acts, each bringing their own unique flair;
Eve Joné
Eve Joné is an emerging Indie-Folk/Folk singer-songwriter from Huddersfield who is committed to creating music that is a “true and genuine expression of who she is,” drawing influence from artists like Noah Kahan and her parents’ musical background. Her deeply personal and lyrical music often tackles complex emotions, notably in her album, The Water And The Trees (Live). This work features the song “Our Time,” which she describes as a “three-minute-therapy session” that addresses the emotional complexities of feeling undervalued in relationships. Having recently finished her studies at CAPA college, Eve has dedicated herself fully to her music career, successfully performing at her first festivals, including the main stage at Todmorden and slots at Holmfirth Folk Festival and supporting Good Good Blood for his recent album launch party.
Devon Salinas
Fusing the technical precision of jazz with the velvet grooves of modern R&B, Devon Salinas is crafting a sound that feels both timeless and essential. The Leeds-based singer-songwriter and guitarist has reached a new creative peak with ‘Say It,’ a track that moves from sun-drenched romance to the haunting, minor-key mourning of a past flame. His live set is a masterclass in atmosphere: expect silk-smooth Neo-Soul vocals backed by the sophisticated harmonic depth that only a true jazz guitarist can provide.
Penny
Penny is a rising singer-songwriter from Huddersfield known for her unique brand of Dream-Pop and Electro-Pop. She pairs sweet, alluring vocals with vulnerable and candid songwriting, using the creative process as a form of therapy. Her music, which includes singles like “Sad Puppy,” “Ur Girl’s Fine,” and “Outside,” explores complex narratives such as processing jealousy, toxic relationships, and self-worth. Penny’s sound is characterized by a low-key groove and compelling seductiveness, finding a “tranquil beauty” in heartbroken narratives that resonate strongly with listeners.
Don Gonzo
Don Gonzo is a high-energy band that delivers a punchy and unpredictable blend of Psychedelic Rock with influences of Post-Punk and Funk. They are recognized for their driving rhythms and unique, complex sound that is highly danceable and entertaining. Their standout track, “Quit Your Job,” is delivered at breakneck speed, featuring rapid percussion, electrifying jazz chords, and a post-punk riff. The simple, repeated line in the bridge—”quit your job, it won’t do no harm”—highlights the song’s effective anti-establishment message. Don Gonzo is a prominent, engaging act in the local music scene, having previously performed at events like the WRXL Afterparty in Huddersfield.
Fiesta La Ginger
Throughout the night, there will be DJ sets from Fiesta La Ginger, opening up the event and filling the spaces between the live acts and keeping the energy high.
Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music and discovery.
The Kirklees Most Wanted Showcase is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of the thriving music scene in Kirklees. By providing a platform for local artists to shine, this event highlights the incredible talent within the community and offers audiences the chance to discover their next favorite act.
Prepare for an unforgettable night of live music as the Kirklees Most Wanted Showcase lights up The Northern Quarter in Huddersfield on January 10th. This eagerly awaited event will spotlight an amazing lineup of homegrown talent, offering a dynamic mix of genres and an electrifying atmosphere for music fans.
Joining us on stage are 4 exceptional acts, each bringing their own unique flair;
Rillington Place
Rillington Place is an alternative metal band that has been featured on the Kirklees Most Wanted playlist with their track “Lament.” The band’s name is inspired by the notorious street where Jack the Ripper committed his crimes, following a similar naming convention to a band they admire, Whitechapel. Their focus is on creating new music, with an EP expected after their next single, and they are active in the live circuit, including a headline show at Parish’s new space, Amped! in Huddersfield.
Eskar & Micky Swags
Eskar is an impactful, fiercely independent hip-hop artist, songwriter, and label owner (Nuke Fam Records) from Huddersfield, UK. Known for his dense lyricism and genre versatility, Eskar is a prominent figure in the UK underground rap scene and was featured on the Kirklees Most Wanted playlist with his track “Kaiju.” In 2024, he released the widely acclaimed album Thy Flesh Consumed, which featured powerful collaborations with artists like Celph Titled, Tonedeff, and his frequent partner Micky Swags. The album also contained the track “116 123,” a vital song promoting a mental health message by sampling the last voice notes of a friend.
Leo Brazil
Before you ask, it’s not a stage name! Leo Brazil has been writing and recording his own music since he was a child singing into a tape machine. As well as drawing on his love for classic pop, rock and roll and soul, Leo draws inspiration from animals with songs that connect personal emotions and experiences with stories from the natural world.
Leo works out of his home studio and is developing a unique and colourful evolution of sound that mixes acoustic, folk, rock and psychedelia.
Leo is a multi-instrumentalist and in the studio plays keyboards, drums and violin. Live he mostly sticks to guitars and banjo where he draws on his big repertoire of self penned songs, equally comfortable with low key acoustic ballads or foot stomping energetic numbers.
Sophie & Songs
Sophie & Songs is an independent singer/songwriter who focuses on folk music and is currently studying music in Leeds. She uses writing and performing for self-expression and self-knowledge. Her songs, such as “Denial” and “Love Betrayed Me,” are described as hauntingly beautiful folk tracks featuring mesmerising acoustic guitar and stirring harmonies, appealing to listeners with their stripped-back, authentic, and vulnerable style.
Fiesta La Ginger
Throughout the night, there will be DJ sets from Fiesta La Ginger, opening up the event and filling the spaces between the live acts and keeping the energy high.
Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music and discovery.
The Kirklees Most Wanted Showcase is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of the thriving music scene in Kirklees. By providing a platform for local artists to shine, this event highlights the incredible talent within the community and offers audiences the chance to discover their next favorite act.
Don’t miss this extraordinary night of music and discovery.
What has 2025 looked like for you? This year has been a year full of change. For me, finishing at CAPA college just before summer and then beginning to visualise where I stand outside of the education system in the next academic year before looking at the future and university or drama school in 2026, has been exciting and overwhelming all at once. I’ve performed at my first ever festivals, the main stage in Todmorden, two slots at Holmfirth and at the Garforth Summer Jam, it’s really felt like my music has taken off. My writing has developed enormously and I really look forward to showing what has become of me and my music in each and every performance I do.
How did you first get into music? I first got into music through my parents both being exceptionally musical. I grew up with them playing together, my mum on the whistle and my dad playing guitar. Both sing as well, and with that influence on top of their love of folk music, I don’t think there could’ve been a world where I wasn’t as invested in music as I am. I started off playing the piano and did a couple of grades before getting ill with CFS/ME when I was 11. Gradually I began to feel well enough to play again and started playing what I wanted to instead of just what I was supposed to because of the exam. My dad taught me to play four chords on the guitar and I practically never put it down afterwards. It wasn’t long before I started to write about my thoughts, feelings and experiences.
What was the process for creating your sound? I think for a lot of people at first it’s really easy to pick somebody else’s sound that you admire and want to sound exactly like them. I know at the start I’d listen to a lot of music by American artists and so would pronounce certain lyrics using that accent. I made the conscious decision that actually that wasn’t me or what I wanted my music to sound like, as I was so passionate about it being a true and genuine expression of who I am. I’ve definitely learned a lot about sounding unique, and I find I always sound the most like me when singing music I’ve written myself.
Who was your biggest inspiration? I’ve had many varying people that have inspired me. My top artist is Noah Kahan, with his deeply personal lyrics and folk influence I’ve always seen a bit of what I strive for in him and his music. On a more personal note I think the people in my life that have supported me and believed in me inspire me to write and perform, even if I’m doubting myself.
Which song best represents you musically to date? This one’s a tricky one! Because the song that I want to say is an unreleased song I wrote named Burnt Bridges and Made Amends. I wrote it after a friend I trusted hurt me deeply, I’ve always thought it captured a very raw very painful part of me that I think can only happen by accident. On “The Water and The Trees” it may be cliché but the title track really caught the way I felt about how short life is and the importance of not dismissing that the things you say you want to do might not always happen and so make the most of it. As well as the song being purely my voice and guitar, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
Which song has been the easiest / hardest to write? There have been a few life events that have happened that have just spilled out songs with ease because of the intensity of which I have experienced the emotion of them. I sometimes write songs within 10 minutes and sometimes it can take months to finish. Sometimes I go into a bit of a haze, like with Words Wrapped up in Lies, I don’t even remember the process of writing the song it just sort of happened and I was left with it afterwards. I remember playing it to some friends at the time fully formed as it was on the album the same day I finished it. I would say that the hardest song was Bliss Of Being Alone. I had about 8 different versions of choruses and prechoruses and verses and don’t even get me started on the time and effort it took to make the decisions as to which lyrics and version of the song I liked best. I’m definitely happy with what I ended up with there though.
Which song is “the one” that turns listeners into fans? I think when I play my music live, especially now, over a year after my album released. The way I perform certain unreleased songs gets people invested. I think the excitement I have about them bleeds through to the songs and the performance. I can’t wait until I can record and show the world some of these newer songs. I do find that once people have heard The Water and The Trees, they tend to take me a bit more seriously than before though!
Do you have any favourite quotes/sayings? I wouldn’t say there’s anything that massively springs to mind. Although in one of my songs, Indentations (unreleased) I have a lyric that says “I said if you value it truly you shouldn’t need it to always go your way”. And although it may be a very hypocritical statement, I do think it’s really beautiful the idea that you don’t need to control everything for it to be valued and appreciated.
What does the future of “Eve Joné” look like? I honestly think I’m in a bit of a state of limbo in terms of my future. There’s no doubt I’m going to keep making music and performing whenever anyone will have me, but I’m looking at higher education and moving out, as well as thinking about what the future of releasing music will look like for me. No decisions are 100% made but I’m happy knowing that my music isn’t going anywhere and I will make sure to keep playing, performing, writing and hopefully releasing my music for anyone that wants to hear.
What are your next steps to get there? My next steps definitely involve looking at the music I’ve written since my album came out and preparing the songs and myself to have a think about recording and which songs make the cut! It’s also important to me to get out there as much as I can and perform, as that’s what it’s all about really.
