The sound of the city: August’s live music highlights
Humber Street Sesh
Plenty worth heading out for this month, by Rose Barker
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August always feels a little different. After a packed few months of festivals, touring bands and impossible diary clashes, things naturally start to slow down. That doesn't mean there’s nothing to do though. Far from it!
From the region’s biggest celebration of live music to a handful of brilliant smaller shows, there’s still plenty worth heading out for this month.
There's really only one place to start. Humber Street Sesh returns to Hull Marina on Saturday, August 1 (£30), once again transforming the waterfront into a celebration of live music.
With more than 100 artists performing across the day, including headliner Fiona-Lee alongside Walt Disco, The Kairos, Jodie Langford and plenty more, there’s something to discover around every corner. Just don’t expect to stick to your plan, because half the fun is stumbling across a band you never meant to watch!
If you’re after something a little more intimate, Mina’s Altar heads to The People’s Republic on Thursday, August 6 (pay what you can). Their blend of ethereal melodies and deeply personal songwriting feels perfectly suited to such a close setting.
Friday, August 14 sees Polar Bear Music Club team up with The Warren for Love Music Hate Racism (free entry). With live music throughout the evening and pizza in the beer garden, it’s a chance to catch some great bands while celebrating the sense of community that’s always been at the heart of Hull’s music scene.
Sunday, August 16 brings Sheffield and Bristol five-piece Shrub to The Adelphi (£8). Their jangly psych-pop, lush harmonies and playful saxophone lines make them exactly the kind of left-field booking The Adelphi has built its reputation on over the years.
Wrecking Ball Arts Centre welcomes acclaimed American songwriter Dean Friedman on Sunday, August 23 (£32). With a catalogue spanning decades, it’s a rare opportunity to hear some of his best-known songs in an intimate setting.
The month rounds off on Friday, August 28 as Leeds metal outfit Inheritor head to O’Rileys (£10). Drawing influence from bands like Killswitch Engage, Parkway Drive and Slipknot, they’re a great shout if you’re still after something loud before the gig calendar kicks back into gear.
August might not be overflowing with gigs, but that’s all part of its charm. It’s a chance to slow things down a little, revisit a favourite venue or discover somewhere new before the autumn season gets properly underway.
I’ll see you down the front!
Listen now - scan the code using the Spotify app and listen to Rose’s picks for this month