Tag: singer-songwriter

Soul, Grit, and Chaos at The Terrace

Venue: The Terrace, Dewsbury
Date: 20/03/2026
Artists: Elefem, DuckLin Curls & Vazon
On the Decks: Fiesta La Ginger

If anyone still thinks “nothing happens in Dewsbury,” they clearly weren’t at The Terrace last Friday. Yet another of the Kirklees Most Wanted showcase series came to town. In an intimate, enthralling atmosphere, we saw exactly why the Kirklees scene is currently the one to watch.

The Vibes: Fiesta La Ginger

The night was glued together by Fiesta La Ginger, who kept the energy high from the moment doors opened. Eschewing the typical “background music” approach, her transitions between sets were masterclasses in vibe-management, blending high-energy beats that ensured the floor never stayed empty for long.

The Opener: Elefem

Taking the first live slot, was the incomparable Elefem. Manchester-born but firmly embraced by the Leeds/Kirklees circuit, she delivered a masterclass in modern Soul and R&B. Her vocals are liquid gold—smooth, yet possessing a sharp edge that cuts through the room. Whether she was hitting velvet-low notes or soaring through jazz-infused runs, Elefem commanded the stage with a natural flair that suggests she won’t be playing venues this small for much longer.

The Lyricist: DuckLin Curls

The atmosphere shifted gears with DuckLin Curls. Bringing a raw, unpredictable edge to the stage, Curls back from his adventures in Oz leaned into his Wu-Tang and Mac Miller influences. His flow is effortless, but it’s the introspective depth of his lyrics that really grabbed the room. It was gritty, honest, and served as a perfect mid-point reminder of the diversity this showcase aims to highlight. DuckLin Curls is BACK to reinstate his claim on the UK watch this space, you’re going to see him everywhere the young man is a special talent!!

The Closers: Vazon

Closing the night was Vazon, they proved why they’re whispered about as one of the best up and coming live bands in West Yorkshire. Drawing on the heavy, melodic DNA of bands like Muse, Royal Blood, Deftones and more, their set was a wall of sound. They managed to make a 100-capacity venue feel like a stadium, converting the chaos of the world into high-voltage rock that left the audience visibly stunned.

Final Thoughts

The Kirklees Most Wanted project is doing exactly what it set out to do: proving that the local talent pool is deep and incredibly varied. The Terrace provided the perfect “pressure cooker” environment for these artists to shine.

Missed out? Don’t make the same mistake twice. The final showcase of the series hits The Terrace on April 17th. Entry is free, but tickets go fast—don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Health and Wellbeing Celebration Event in Huddersfield

Get ready for a vibrant, feel-good afternoon packed with creativity, connection and community energy!
Here’s what’s waiting for you:

✨ Hands-on creative health activities and interactive workshops
🎶 An uplifting line-up of live music to set the atmosphere
🎁 Games, surprises and prizes up for grabs
🎤 Inspiring keynote speakers sharing powerful insights
🌿 Information stands showcasing creative health opportunities across Kirklees
🗣 A chance to have your say on the new Kirklees Cultural Strategy
🚀 Discover the brand-new Creative Health Hub and what it means for you

The event also have a selection of performances from some of the participants in the Kirklees Most Wanted project namely;

Spencer Wilson , Sophie & Songs , Eve Jone ,

Mason Whittle

Whether you want to get involved, learn something new, share your voice or simply enjoy the buzz — there’s something here for everyone.

Zero and the NoNos – I Scream Headache

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.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/zerononos

Ruby Wood – Superstar

Smokey and sensual, with a groove straight out of the 70s, “Superstar” is a collaboration that works on every level. The low vocals provided by Ruby Wood swirl into the smooth, bubbly bass and trumpet accents to make a rich sound that’s the audio equivalent of red wine.

“Superstar” is a song about the fantasy of dating a superstar, and the lyrics are filled with a sort of quiet awe that speaks to the head-spinning notion of that premise – though given Wood’s extensive touring and sellout Wembly Arena and Manchester Apollo performances, it’s fair to say she’s the superstar in the relationship.

“Superstar” is R&B at its finest – an easy-listening jam that’s hard to dislike.

Leo Brazil – Perhaps I Have The Power

Heartfelt and soulful, “Perhaps I Have The Power” is a sweet and simple folk ballad and a plainly raw acknowledgement that things will be better. Brazil’s low and thick vocals and honestly hopeful lyrics make for a powerfully uplifting core, and the bassy guitar strums and thumping percussion coalesce into a pleasantly soulful sound to accompany it.

Brazil’s love for music is evident in the deceptively strong production – including background choral vocals, warbling Mellotron, and subtly mixed bass – which compliment the core song without tainting the simple, folksy sound. That, and the heartfelt declaration that “music is always around when you’re feeling down.”

I can’t think of a better example of that sentiment than “Perhaps I have the Power”

Find out more here – https://www.instagram.com/leobrazilmusic/

Erlina Lily – Cold Regret

Melancholic from minute one, “Cold Regret” is a stark encapsulation of the sobering feeling of lamenting how things have turned out. The mood is introduced by the sharp guitar chords and cemented by the melodically harsh harmonica, and by the time the softly sombre vocals come in, the coldly tragic atmosphere is set.

Simplistic in its composition – with low-key bass and a slow thumping beat – “Cold Regret” is hummable to no end, and the sensational quality of lyrics like “I hate the way it wraps around my neck” make the song endlessly relatable.

There’s nothing to regret about listening to “Cold Regret”

Find out more – https://www.instagram.com/erlinaxlily/

The Dewsbury K.M.W Showcase

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.


Facebook event link – https://fb.me/e/6i7CiUUTK

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kirklees-most-wanted-showcase-tickets-1976782852726?aff=oddtdtcreator

Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England

The Huddersfield K.M.W Showcase

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.


Facebook event link – https://fb.me/e/6i7CiUUTK

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kirklees-most-wanted-showcase-tickets-1976782029263?aff=oddtdtcreator