As we strategy the top of the yr, Louder Than Struggle photographers have chosen their favorite captures and recollections from an unforgettable 2024. This yr introduced us some outstanding exhibits and festivals, permitting us to doc extraordinary moments in reside music. With 2025 on the horizon, we’re thrilled for the thrilling performances and alternatives but to return.
MELANIE SMITH – It’s been an outstanding yr and selecting 5 of my favorite pictures is not any straightforward activity because it’s been a whirlwind of incredible exhibits. But when I needed to choose only one standout, it could undoubtedly be the extraordinary Nick Cave and the Unhealthy Seeds on their Wild God Tour at AO Area in Manchester in November. Capturing him amidst the entrance crowd, quite than solely on stage, was a long-held dream. His uncooked vitality and magnetic presence are unparalleled, and I doubt I’ll ever tire of photographing such an electrifying, inspiring performer. Summed up completely by Clare de Lune “…a heart-connecting expertise that gracefully meanders by way of darkness and lightweight, with pleasure being on the core.”
Listed here are extra of my favorite moments in photographs. I like capturing performers with an edge, particularly dynamic feminine artists. Certainly one of my absolute favourites is Paloma Religion – ever the chameleon, continuously reinventing herself with every tour. Capturing her is all the time a thrill; her latest exhibits had been no exception. I did two back-to-back exhibits; however this red-hot outfit was a dream: a divine diva incarnate. As MK Bennett superbly described her Bridgewater Corridor present in Manchester, “She is your greatest good friend, your fairy godmother, the widespread contact with an unusual expertise.“.
Amyl and the Sniffers was one other standout second, I lastly bought them off my bucket checklist at Manchester Academy. Their electrical vitality, fast-paced chaos and Amy’s uncooked energy saved me on my toes your complete time. The ever-witty MK Bennett summed it up completely “Until you might have the soul and wit of a Scarecrow’s colostomy bag, you’ll be able to solely benefit from the Amyl And The Sniffers present.”
Lindsay Stirling is an extremely gifted violinist who effortlessly combines intricate enjoying with dynamic motion and placing choreography—a very outstanding feat. An astonishing present which Ed Chadwick summed up as ” Electrifying solos, intricate string-plucking, and unprecedented genre-bending all make for an eccentric musical journey; however Stirling’s inventive costume design and enchanting visuals make it an immersive, multi-sensory expertise. “.
Conan Gray a powerhouse of the American pop scene, captivated his huge Gen Z fanbase with two sold-out nights at Manchester’s O2 Apollo. Bathed in dramatic lighting, exuding ’80s rock ‘n’ roll swagger, he commanded the stage in a vibrant leather-based outfit—a photographer’s dream come to life. Ed Chadwick described him completely “He wooed the gang along with his struts throughout the stage and majestic hair flips. Freddie Mercury-esque fist pumps had been shared between Grey and his followers…”
Different standout moments for me embody the electrifying Confidence Man, Aurora‘s ethereal vocals and beautiful stage design, the emotional energy of Camille O’Sullivan, Janelle Monáe‘s full spectacle, and the long-lasting Grace Jones. My highlights additionally featured artists at Reside at Leeds – Orla Gartland, Caity Baiser, Billy Nomates, Scorching Wax, and Baxter Dury. I lastly had the possibility to verify the energetic The Hives off my bucket checklist. And final, however not least, my favorite discover of the yr was the ’50s-inspired American rocker Stephen Sanchez. Subsequent yr, I purpose to seize a present on the UK’s largest indoor area, the Co-op, and dive into extra unforgettable pop exhibits.
NAOMI DRYDEN SMITH – 2024 has been a great yr for me with prime exhibits together with Slowdive, Pixies, Grace Jones, PJ Harvey, Kings Of Leon, Vaccines, Marriage ceremony Current, Dandy Warhols, EMF, Jesus Jones and Echobelly.
In all probability my favorite photograph is certainly one of my most up-to-date – Depeche Mode’s Dave Gahan was a particular visitor on the Roundhouse-hosted Mark Lanegan: 60, A Birthday Celebration. It was an evening to recollect, and amongst a raft of pictures of Josh Homme, Chrissie Hynde, Bobby Gillespie, Ed Harcourt, Soulsavers and a number of others, this one shines out to me. Try our evaluation by the ever wonderful Nils Van Der Linden, who was as impressed with Dave’s clean efficiency as I used to be: “A suave Dave Gahan, first up on the guestlist, doesn’t drop the ball, kicking off with a rousing Sideways In Reverse earlier than utilizing his strategy on latter day Depeche Mode albums so as to add a bluesy croon to Low and the attractive Kingdoms Of Rain.”
In the summertime, we had been fortunate sufficient to get into one of many Intercourse Pistols exhibits at Bush Corridor in Shepherd’s Bush, which offered out inside seconds of the tickets being launched. It was incredible to see legends Paul Cook dinner, Glen Matlock and Steve Jones in such an intimate setting – a way of the way it was again within the day for these of us who weren’t there. Frank Carter is a genius alternative for the just about unimaginable job of changing John Lydon, superbly described by Phil Ross: “Crouching and weaving like a fighter warming up, he appears lower than half the age of Jones and the opposite Pistols. His youthful face splits into an infinite, maniacal grin and he throws the mic stand excessive above his head, shaking and brandishing it like some historical tattooed Celtic warrior with a spear, daring Caesar and his legionaries to return forward and attempt to invade our little island.” Phil additionally captured a terrific movie of the gig, value a glance.
My third time taking pictures CMAT, she’s so good she’s medicinal. Supremely gifted and but self-deprecating, to see her is to like her. In my very own phrases: “…the whole lot’s pointing to her being the Actual Deal, creatively gifted in all instructions with a lot going for her, on an upwards trajectory. Must hope that the report enterprise trajectory isn’t so steep that she loses herself in it as a result of what she is, proper now, is a bit particular – a breath of real contemporary air. With spurs.”
A dream shoot for me this one – I’ve liked The Cult since ceaselessly and I pursued them to the center of a area in County Laois, my now favorite Irish pageant, Forest Fest. The added bonus of being allowed to shoot them from the pit (very uncommon today) made this a particular one for me. Once more, in my very own phrases (sorry) “…highly effective, justifiably conceited, with Ian Astbury displaying all rock stars wherever precisely the way it’s finished. His distinctive voice and supply stay simply as formidable as earlier than, along with his trademark Astbury strikes, channelling his hero Jim Morrison. Billy Duffy is in full on rock god mode.”
Lastly, a extra candid second from one other very long time hero, Gary Numan. The Roundhouse stage suited him, and this present felt pivotal. Once more, me… “He’s all the time been a composer in its fullest sense, creating textures and sounds that take his songs by way of actions, adjustments of vitality and momentum, creating ardour and emotion that resonated strongly with angst-ridden new wave youngsters of their bedrooms.”
In 2025 I’ll look to up the ante on the variety of ladies in my prime pictures, and shoot extra festivals than I managed to get to this yr. A private thanks to those that reviewed with me, and extra typically to everybody who has contributed to LTW’s set of incredible pageant critiques all year long. Lastly, thanks from me to all of the PRs who’ve accommodated us at some wonderful festivals in 2024 and been so nice to work with.
PAUL GRACE – 2024 wasn’t the busiest of years on the music pictures entrance on account of a brilliant busy day job, nevertheless, I did handle to squeeze in a couple of exhibits which left a really robust impression. My favorite music {photograph} of 2024 has to go to Gentle Play at O2 Academy Brixton. I’d wished to {photograph} these guys for years and eventually, the celebrities aligned and I wasn’t disillusioned. The duo introduced a loopy quantity of vitality to Brixton that Hallowe’en eve, and the followers lapped it up good and correct. Keith Goldhanger reviewed and stated, “Gentle Play present the sound of two blokes who we presume had been drip-fed a couple of Crass albums and one or two metallic albums by their mother and father on the college run within the mornings.”
Future Islands performed a wonderful sundown present on the iconic Crystal Palace Bowl over the summer time and singer Samuel T. Herring’s gravity-defying dance strikes had been motive sufficient to go see them play. “Because the solar units, Future Islands take to the stage and ship a present that proves they’re 100% worthy headliners.”
Crosses (†††) on the O2 Discussion board Kentish City had been on explosive kind with guitarist Shaun Lopez throwing some basic rock star poses. Nils van der Linden reviewed “Moreno sings prefer it’s the final night time of Earth.”
Judas Priest on the OVO Area Wembley confirmed us they had been nonetheless very a lot on the prime of their sport with singer Rob Halford being a wonderful trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ neighborhood within the heavy music scene – Nils van der Linden – “Because the entrance man stomps throughout the stage like Godzilla, it’s clear Judas Priest are nonetheless unstoppable.“.
The Nationwide, once more at Crystal Palace Park, had been totally chic and singer Matt Berninger’s comical band and crowd interactions crammed my coronary heart with pleasure. Tom Parry – “The Nationwide saved constructing as much as moments of sheer euphoria. Typically they’re extra subdued, however then the momentum swells as soon as extra, and it’s unimaginable to not really feel stirred by the electrical cost they create.”
TREV EALES – 2024 noticed fewer assignments for me and a summer time pageant season badly curtailed (on account of private causes) however I used to be nonetheless privileged to witness some distinctive gigs and take some pleasing photographs. My favorite shot is Soiled Honey shot at Manchester Academy in February – “Soiled Honey are a pressure of nature; beautiful performers up there with the most effective“. There’s nothing groundbreaking concerning the music that California’s Soiled Honey creates. They’re firmly rooted within the blues-rock sounds of the late 60s/early ’70s bands like Led Zeppelin, however what they lack in originality they make up for with some spectacular songs mixed with nice stage presence and charisma. It’s onerous to not take good photographs of them.
Extra of my favorite pictures and exhibits this yr: Yard Act headlining The Market Stage at Truck Competition. They’re a band I’ve watched quite a few instances however this efficiency reached one other degree; simply essentially the most energised supply I’ve seen from singer James Smith, and he’s nice to {photograph}. Keith Goldhanger reviewed “Solely three years on from their debut single, life continues to hurry alongside at such a quick tempo for Yard Act“.
You normally know what you’re getting with Seasick Steve; a dose of no-frills blues accompanied by a sprinkling of his dry wit. “We get virtually an hour of soiled, scuzzy, groove-driven blues” however this efficiency was way more heartfelt and emotional. The primary stage compere at Black Deer found Steve in 2006 and first introduced him to UK audiences. Hugs and even a couple of tears ensued as Seasick made this a efficiency to recollect on the Black Deer Competition in June.
Typically small phases at festivals throw up actual surprises. Whereas tens of 1000’s watched mainstream indie and pop on the principle stage at TRNSMT, a couple of of us had been enthralled by the goth-inspired post-punk of Heartworms. The photograph I’ve chosen captures a uncommon second of stillness from vocalist /guitarist/songwriter Jojo Orme throughout an energy-filled set. “The singer’s merely mesmerising and he or she’s an completed guitarist too.“
PJ Harvey at Piece Corridor, Halifax in August was music, artwork, poetics, visible theatre, heartfelt emotion and uncooked rock ‘n’ roll. P J Harvey introduced all of them to her mesmerising efficiency I might have chosen any of 5 or 6 pictures – “… a one-off musician who managed that uncommon feat of creating sounds that continuously challenged your senses however one way or the other remained a transformative collective expertise.”.
JACK FLYNN – What are you able to even say on the subject of Paul McCartney? It’s my photograph of the yr simply because I’m nonetheless amazed it was even potential. A tricky shoot, solely two songs from the sound desk a mile away, however I by no means anticipated I might be ready to {photograph} an precise Beatle, so it’s straight into the highest 5 by default. Dave Edwards was surprised by the efficiency – “This was greater than only a present, this was a lesson in historical past and one of many biggest artists in fashionable music at his peak as a reside performer.”
I solely had one music within the photograph pit to shoot Liam Gallagher, one of the vital iconic frontmen of all time, so I needed to make it rely, and by chance throughout my three minutes I used to be in a position to dodge the monsoon of lager raining down from the viewers. The sheer decibels of the Manchester Area shouting again the lyrics to each music was not like any live performance I’ve been to in my life, such unbelievable environment generated with so little motion from the person himself. David Edwards wrote “Liam Gallagher’s journey to the stage tonight has been equally complicated and snagged by low-blows and false begins. But that is validation past all expectation. An evening of happiness and reaching again throughout the many years for a quick, superb few hours of magic.” I can’t think about the roar that’ll unfold when Oasis take the stage subsequent yr.
Swapping the same old naked chest, emblazoned with tattoos, for a dapper white go well with, the newest tour for Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes showcased a extra mature, darker depth to their songwriting, however the reside present remained as electrical and raucous as ever, that includes “a sensational vocal efficiency from Carter“. And regardless of the ominous lighting circumstances I managed to get a second of eye contact simply as a strobe gentle fired and illuminated my shot for me.
Fats White Household are certainly one of my favorite bands who should be seen reside to be actually understood, and their exhibits will not be for the faint of coronary heart. On this present, frontman Lias Saoudi’s unhinged performances resemble an exorcism, spitting mouthfuls of milk into the gang wearing a skin-coloured physique go well with, all set to a backdrop of avant-garde psychedelic artwork rock. “Saoudi drew your complete crowd’s consideration gyrating throughout the stage with a demonic glee and an air of hedonistic reckless abandon comparable solely to the likes of Iggy Pop. He’s the kind of frontman that wrings out each ounce of themselves for the viewers, earlier than collapsing as a husk onstage.” Thrilling, provocative and unpredictable.
I like this photograph as a result of it simply sums up the pure insanity of a SNAYX present. The gargantuan riffs and venomous lyrics cut back each crowd they play to right into a swirling mass of joyful chaos.
ADAM EDWARDS – My favorite shot this yr comes from my favorite gig – GOAT at Manchester Academy. For the viewers, this was an excellent present, a blizzard of strobes and pink lighting, flashes and shifting band members – continuous dynamism. As a photographer, it was a fucking nightmare as the primary two songs had been bathed in pink gentle, making it onerous to discern what was happening with the bare eye not to mention focus a digital camera. On the time I assumed this set of photographs would both find yourself being certainly one of my favourites ever or unusable – fortunately it was the previous and the gallery precisely conveys the motion, the insanity, the motion, the GOATness of the band. They had been continuous and wonderful for your complete set I can’t look ahead to them to return again subsequent summer time. MK critiques – “Goat know find out how to construction a set, a journey of delicate motion with a continuing upward trajectory in the direction of all potential emotional highs”
Different highlights from this yr embody taking pictures Jimmy Eat World at O2 Victoria Warehouse, ticking off a giant millennial field personally and seeing how a lot the band appeared to dig being out on stage. Reviewed by Dave Beech “..an train in songcraft over showmanship, leading to an understated but exquisitely curated set that showcased the most effective the band has to supply“.
Los Campesinos! at New Century was a terrific present, one other one slicing by way of the venue’s penchant for pink lighting – Dave Beech remarked in his evaluation “..each joyous and cathartic in equal elements“.
Bambie Thug was my first time taking pictures at Gorilla and in true novice style I used to be positioned within the improper place. However the shot I’ve chosen right here was a uncommon time I captured her trying down the digital camera and is my favorite from what was a superb reside efficiency. MK Bennet reviewed “..Half darkish pop fairytale, half ice queen, they commanded the Gorilla stage like an animal uncaged“.
And I can’t miss out on Blossoms at their biggest-ever gig: the shot I’ve chosen right here captures them trying rightfully triumphant at an enormous homecoming live performance in Wythenshawe Park, a terrific achievement for the boys and the world. Clare de Lune reviewed “Blossoms hearth up the emotional rigidity like a dopamine excessive, arousing a way of carefree, youthful bliss by way of the facility of their songs and charisma.“.
JIM MUMBY – Being an unbiased venue stalwart and champion of the choice/DIY scene provides you entry to seeing and listening to a number of the freshest and most numerous music, extra usually with out the protocol and politics of photographing established artists on the massive phases. Nonetheless now and again when the massive stage beckons, I’ll suck up the protocol and attempt to seize the essence of a gig within the necessary three-song allocation. On even rarer events, an artist may even acknowledge the presence of photographers and be generously accommodating. A living proof was Rick Astley, who graced the Piece Corridor, Halifax with a two-hour set from his continuously nostalgic repertoire in a uniquely non-confrontational method, making these three songs a real pleasure to seize his glowing efficiency. This Rick pic is my favorite and most memorable of the yr, no matter his momentary vainness flex. A 15-minute funky exercise of By no means Gonna Give You Up was invariably loved by reviewer Paul Clarke, who described it as a ”timeless pop gem’‘.
The Pretty Eggs at Brudenell Social Membership – DIY to the core, and an iconic pairing to say the least. A sold-out present, and house was restricted; Ross & Blackwell had emailed upfront with a three-song restrict, so time was tight. In a cramped nook, pinned up in opposition to David Blackwell’s spangly drum rig, I framed a uncommon shot of the Eggs collectively in entrance of the psychedelic backdrop of Casey Raymond’s gooey art work, beamed out from a bulkhead projector that gratefully offered simply sufficient workable gentle to an in any other case gloomy room.”With a stubbornly ‘fuck it’ form of angle, The Pretty Eggs have progressively develop into a fully-fledged indie establishment” – commented Andy Brown.
At the moment driving excessive on the newest punk wave, Lambrini Women‘ personal brassy, queer model of garbage can pop works greatest within the reside area, the place they bash collectively gritty songs with theatrics which are massively entertaining albeit borderline harmful. Their efficiency at MCR Skatepark through the annual Manchester Psych Fest was a standout with out exception, as protagonist Phoebe Lunny appeared extra at residence within the crowd than on the stage. “A inventive chaos from the get-go that might’ve gone in any course made that gig all of the extra thrilling to doc.”
Equally chaotic but undeniably calculated, native San Franciscan noisenik Evicshen was “exemplary in her distinctive, transcendent model” concisely famous by reviewer James Kilkenny. A more in-depth take a look at a number of the detailed pictures from that boutique gig revealed report participant styluses hot-glued to fingernails, sonic metallic coils that turned out for use bandsaw blades, and a pair of essentially the most simplistic DIY turntables, all hooked as much as a mass jumble of gaffer-taped sonic results that struggled to stay on the desk that Shen straddled and repeatedly battled in opposition to whereas blasting distorted horns, earlier than a mighty bullwhip-crack on the finale. Insanely good.
To seize the essence of punk, you typically must embrace the muck and bullets. If you happen to’re nervous about digital camera gear getting splashed with beer, broken in a mosh-pit, spat on or worse, then it’s unlikely you’ll inform the entire fact along with your contributions to a evaluation. At each respectable punk gig, significantly in small venues, the dynamics created between the band and their viewers is its measure of success. Get entangled, get the shot and get the hell out of the melee was the missive when Pennsylvanian punks Pissed Denims stopped by the Brudenell Social Membership on a brief UK tour. Fortunately Louder Than Struggle was there to doc their extensively talked about time in Leeds – summarised as soon as once more by Andy Brown “…you’ll be able to actually really feel the vitality between the viewers and the stage. What we’re experiencing right here is pure, uncooked energy”.
2025 guarantees to be a extra fruitful yr, with the prospect of documenting a yr of punk and DIY goodness at one specific venue, culminating with a potential exhibition and e book collaboration – all not-for-profit with any proceeds going again into the music trade.
SIMON REED– Louder Than Struggle has as soon as once more supplied me some unbelievable alternatives with the digital camera in 2024, and I always remember what a privilege it’s to be afforded the most effective view in the home. It would typically solely final three songs and some minutes, however the adrenaline rush beats absolutely anything else I’ve ever finished. My private stand-out second was to shoot the band Wunderhorse at their greatest headline present up to now in a sold-out Brixton Academy. I like the band, the environment was unbelievable, and I hope I managed to seize the sheer depth of frontman Jacob Slater. “When…Wunderhorse stroll out onto the hallowed boards at London’s Brixton Academy, they spare a second to pause and take all of it in. You possibly can’t actually blame them. They’re confronted with a sell-out crowd at their greatest headline present up to now and the viewers goes nuts.”
The Lottery Winners had been a spotlight at this yr’s Victorious Competition in Southsea. Thom Rylance is an extremely participating performer, and his trustworthy dialogue with the gang about his struggles with psychological well being and ADHD struck a chord with me as I’ve a baby who’s severely neurodivergent with related diagnoses and challenges. When the band performed Letter To Myself (Rylance telling the 12-year-old model of Thom to not fear about his many issues as a result of the whole lot will work out in the long run), I discovered first-hand how tough it’s to take pictures whenever you’re sobbing your coronary heart out. Jon Kean reviewed – “Hilarious and hyperactive, but at instances humane and humble, Thom whipped up the sizeable crowd with a Freddie Mercury Reside Assist throwback routine.”
Bloodstock Competition all the time serves up incredible photograph ops and two of my favourites from the yr come from there. I’m all the time struck by how a pageant that serves up such aggressive music by no means fails to drag off an amazingly inclusive and supportive vibe. It’s nicely summed up by a younger, beaming crowd surfer being supported from beneath and helped by the superb safety workforce on the barrier. In the meantime, the photograph pit was rammed for Moldovan band Contaminated Rain, and particularly their singer Lena Scissorhands. Her wonderful dreads are a factor of legend and make for excellent pictures. “They bang their heads, they flail their hair, and Lena, specifically, has locks so excessive that after they’re thrown about she extra intently resembles an alien character from Doom ”
Lastly this yr, I’ve bought a photograph of J. Willgoose, Esq. of Public Service Broadcasting from their gig at The Roundhouse in Camden. There’s nothing significantly distinctive about it you may assume (and I assume you’d be proper), besides that I’ve photographed them loads, and that is the primary time I’ve ever managed to seize Willgoose having stepped away from the myriad of keyboards and different electronica that normally encompass him. He’s a wonderful guitarist, so it was good to lastly correctly seize him enjoying the instrument. Tom Parry famous – “The cleverness of splicing these excerpts from the archives with hovering guitar licks, angelic chords and excellent drummer Wrigglesworth’s danceable and thumping rhythms stays spectacular.”
Who is aware of what 2025 will convey? There are actually some wonderful alternatives on the market. No matter happens, I’ll be doing my greatest to seize it with a digital camera.
LIAM MAXWELL – Going into the pit you by no means actually know what you’re going to get. The unpredictable nature of live performance pictures has a top quality that retains me coming again for extra, time and again and once more; particularly whenever you get to shoot a few of your favorite acts, ones you grew up listening to, the place that is drastically exacerbated. These are a couple of of my favorite gigs this yr, and some favorite moments from exhibits that had been a dream to shoot.
Rise In opposition to – seeing Tim McIlrath’s entrance to the stage I knew precisely what sort of pictures I wished to get from this efficiency; a little bit of ready and lining up fastidiously and certainly one of my favorite pictures fell into place. I like the dynamic vitality from rock acts and have been a fan of Rise In opposition to for years, so that is certainly one of my favorite reside pictures from the yr. Dave Beech sums up the present “..tonight has been one thing particular; a extra uncooked, extra intimate model of Rise In opposition to than we’ve beforehand seen.”
The Smile – This shot of Johnny Greenwood, while most might need favoured a Thom Yorke nonetheless, actually stood out to me. It captured the grace and fantastic thing about The Smile’s work, lining up completely with some moody and cinematic lighting and Johnny utilizing the bow on his bass. Claire Glover writes in admiration – “Thom’s distinctive wild, thrilling but melodic vocals that weave out and in of the layers of what may very well be solely be described as extraordinary, experimental jazz fusion, mixing superbly.”
Jesus and Mary Chain – Jim Reid has a robust presence, and the JAMC catalogue is huge and awe-inspiring. Typically I believe you need to create the shot and typically you simply discover a place that works and simply let the artist unfold the whole lot in entrance of you – this was a kind of instances. Ryan Walker’s poetic description was “…a blissful, damaged overdose of cracked, climactic noises and magnetic atmospherics, the sonic departure from one room, and moving into one other while guided by a glimpse of sunshine with mud particles dancing in its harsh, hallucinatory beam.”
James – The shot of Tim Sales space going into the gang was an adrenaline second – will he? received’t he? Then unexpectedly he was simply in there and amongst it. Sensible stage presence and the most effective performers of our time – seeing the gang’s reactions to his antics was joyous. Natalie Royale was captivated – “Tim appears in awe of the dimensions of the gang, each single one of many 23,500 folks singing his lyrics of solidarity again to him – connecting an viewers of that measurement is not any imply feat“.
And lastly, DIIV – An esoteric favorite, a band that I’ve discovered solace on many nights enhancing away with, and the reside set was the whole lot I hoped it to be. Gorgeous visuals, and a kind of exhibits the place I needed to put the digital camera down for a second and simply let the sound wash over me. Joe Goggins critiques “..there’s a sense that we’re catching DIIV earlier than their newest transformation is full, however on this proof, we’re getting into into their most enjoyable period but.”
In addition to being busy on the reside circuit, this yr I’ve been lucky to work with some nice acts on press shoots within the studio. Some highlights embody Pixies, Nick Mulvey, The Gradual Readers Membership, The Lottery Winners, and South Arcade (who’re the subsequent massive factor, for these not within the know…).
ADAM WILLIAMS – Once I first picked up a digital camera and introduced it alongside to gigs, l by no means imagined it could take me on an journey to Malta to shoot certainly one of my all-time heroes Liam Gallagher. I’ll all the time keep in mind the second when he got here onstage and the way I needed to cease my palms and arms from shaking with nerves while holding the digital camera. Capturing his final solo gig and the ultimate cease of the Undoubtedly Possibly anniversary tour earlier than the Oasis reunion hits subsequent yr, completely blew my thoughts. “The Maltese crowd – locals, Brits, and each Gallagher die-hard in between – turned the place into an enormous, sun-soaked singalong, proving that even in paradise there’s no escaping the pull of that swaggering Mancunian attraction.”
I’m not going to lie, this one hit me in all of the feels; I used to be high-quality capturing all of the wonderful acts at All Factors East all through the day till LCD Soundsystem began to shut a terrific day of music. James Murphy informed us they misplaced a really shut good friend (Justin Chearno) the day earlier than and went on so as to add “We’re making an attempt our greatest. We love him and miss him. This sucks. Thanks for being right here and being part of it”. My coronary heart felt for them and, as that repetitive piano melody kicked in, I discovered myself on a reflective journey, enthusiastic about buddies I’ve had in my life; reminiscing about my youth and people superb days and nights of the 2000s when the world (at the least on the time) appeared like a a lot better place than it’s immediately. With all of the feelings flowing, I stood there amongst the gang grateful for that second and the way music has simple particular powers to make you are feeling. “Murphy discusses their shut good friend and collaborator Justin Chearno, who died simply the day gone by. They then play, naturally, Somebody Nice, the place new troubled whirring results encompass the introduction, signalling the arrival of a brand new grief.”. – Mark Muldoon
Unquestionably, Fats Canine had been my favorite band at this yr’s Latitude pageant. You realize you’re capturing a particular efficiency whenever you get utterly misplaced within the music and overlook you’re alleged to be there taking photographs. I completely liked their sound and I didn’t see a much bigger occasion all through the pageant than I did within the dawn area for his or her amazingly enjoyable present. Simon Lucas-Hughes wrote”..the five-piece’s mix of drum and bass infused electronica, rock, sprawling post-punk and even ska parts created a strikingly unique, high-energy and most significantly, actually thrilling and enjoyable reside sound.“.
Blossoms in Malta appears like a match made in indie-pop heaven, and Stockport’s smoothest five-piece proved it. Beneath the very heat Mediterranean night time sky it was a pleasure capturing this gig – with this picture beneath being my favorite. For me, it encapsulates what was a slick, fashionable and unimaginable to not love efficiency by the band. “Blossoms wasted no time turning the night into an all-out dance occasion”
And eventually, I might go on about how Kasabian are nonetheless the most effective British reside acts round however it’s all been stated earlier than. I do nevertheless need to point out how effortlessly cool Serge Pizzorno is; he’s a photographer’s dream and it’s virtually unimaginable to not seize a gold second of the man. This picture encapsulates the King of Kasabian from their headline slot efficiency at this yr’s Latitude pageant in Suffolk. Simon Lucas Hughes summed up “Sergio’s stage presence brings a contemporary flare, a distinct really feel to their music while nonetheless capturing the anthemic and big sound which you’d anticipate from the band, and nonetheless delivering the massive punching riffs of outdated.”
NEIL CHAPMAN (aka UnholyRacket) – Anybody who made the case for reside music being on its method out didn’t reckon on 2024. A number of quick years after the pandemic, regardless of elevated pressures on small venues, the reside music scene has been astounding. I’ve had the great fortune to tag together with LTW reviewer Andy Brown to see a couple of bands. I hope he appreciated me upping my sport and dragging him alongside to a few of my favorite artists, enjoying the wonderful venues this high-quality metropolis has to supply. I’ve even been impressed to write down a couple of phrases to go together with my photographs.
If there was a single gig that represented the arrival of Leeds’ new wave of artists, and the community that helps the music scene it could be Yard Act’s look at Millennium Sq.. My favorite photograph of the yr comes from that present and I additionally wrote about it. I all the time attempt to get a large shot and love an motion shot, so this turned out to be each. I wished to point out the staging and noticed the trench-coated James Smith leaping from the steps. “Arenas will not be too far of their future albeit Smith states they ‘Don’t care if we play to a half-full Hyde Park E-book Membership’“.
The road-up included the Mercury Prize-winning English Instructor, Fats Canine, and Final Thunder who all function on the enterprise finish of the Louder Than Struggle albums of the yr. This additionally bought me enthusiastic about the opposite nice outside gigs I’ve lined this yr.
The Piece Corridor in Halifax and Millennium Sq. in Leeds performed host to some wonderful gigs, and I used to be lucky to cowl a couple of of them. Each venues match neatly into the hole between Yorkshire’s indoor venues and the arenas, so are a terrific measurement to slot in some greater bands. I’ve chosen some photographs from these gigs for my gallery – Pixies: “..No encore, no frills, simply 100% Pixified goodness. The Piece Corridor has seen so many nice acts this summer time however this seems like an enormous spotlight“.
Dave Beech stated of Korn “It’s not simply the band’s trademark brutal weight that’s at play nevertheless, there’s greater than sufficient melody to offset these actually heavy moments.”
Of English Instructor, who supported Yard Act, I stated: “There was no scarcity of well-deserved plaudits for his or her debut album This Might Be Texas“.
My last alternative comes from Russell Crowe’s Indoor Backyard Occasion at The Brudenell Social Membership, Leeds. Andy Brown was pleasantly stunned – “From an emotional, spotlit efficiency of Dire Strait’s Romeo And Juliet to the ecstatic gospel of Let Your Mild Shine. The songs simply hold coming!“. Right here’s to 2025.
PHIL THORNS – 2024 has been a yr to recollect, not only for the unbelievable music but in addition for the enjoyment of capturing all of it by way of my lens. Every gig and venue introduced its magic and typically challenges, resembling lighting or overactive smoke machines, making each shoot a singular and assorted expertise, which is what I like about gig pictures.
My favorite needed to be Stylish and Nile Rodgers at The Piece Corridor, Halifax, the spotlight of the yr. This 18th-century architectural gem created a magical setting to listen to hit after hit after hit. The lighting was spectacular, the music was flawless, and the gang’s vitality was unparalleled. I’ve by no means seen an viewers so immersed in a efficiency, with each individual dancing, smiling, and utterly misplaced within the second. Paul Clarke partied on – “The formulation was easy – a prime class band stuffed with excellent musicians enjoying the hits with two unbelievable feminine vocalists belting out the phrases because the effortlessly cool Rodgers meandered around the stage enjoying his trademark ‘chucking’ guitar model, and speaking to the gang between songs.”
Different highlights for me embody The Stranglers at O2 Apollo, Manchester, with its iconic design and top-tier manufacturing, which was the proper backdrop for The Stranglers. Their uncooked, commanding presence crammed the house, and the dramatic lighting turned each second right into a frame-worthy masterpiece. The band’s darkish vitality and timeless hits created an electrical environment that was a thrill to seize. Robin Boardman bought nostalgic “…a band which delivers a celebration of a legacy with a promise of extra to return, and so long as The Stranglers are round, there will probably be heroes.“.
Massive Particular on the Deaf Institute, Manchester, with its cosy, bohemian vibe and retro decor, completely complemented the band’s uncooked, heartfelt efficiency. Capturing right here felt private, with each body capturing the deep connection between the band and their devoted followers. John Robb wrote “The between music banter is hilarious and the songs are direct, ingenious, highly effective and brimful of point out because the aptly named band gate crash the decadent poppermost of the toppermost occasion.”
Physician and the Medics and The Twang at Mosfest Don Valley, Sheffield, set within the coronary heart of Sheffield’s historic steelmaking district, was alive with vitality. The commercial heritage of the situation added a gritty authenticity to the pageant. Capturing 10 bands in someday was a whirlwind of color, sound, and vitality. The variety of acts and the friendliness of the gang made it a particular family-friendly pageant. What a disgrace it was the final one. Physician and the Medics “…gave a charismatic and totally entertaining efficiency, characterised by a mix of glam rock and psychedelic influences, making a sound that’s each nostalgic and timeless.” and The Twang – “The band’s chemistry was palpable; they had been greater than musicians, they had been storytellers.”
It’s been a pleasure to doc these moments and lots of others, and I can’t wait to see what 2025 brings. Right here’s to extra music, extra tales, assembly extra pretty folks and extra unforgettable alternatives to seize our fantastic reside music scene.
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Our heartfelt thanks exit to our gifted workforce of photographers, for his or her unbelievable work this yr, to the PR groups for organising our entry, and to the reviewers whose phrases match our pictures completely. A particular because of the bands and artists who welcomed us and delivered unforgettable performances, giving us moments that had been a pleasure to seize. Lastly, a giant thanks to Louder Than Struggle for his or her unwavering help and for offering a outstanding platform to showcase our work.
A particular because of Jack Flynn for the header picture and calendar design.
If you are right here, why not buy certainly one of our unique wall calendars, that includes 13 pictures – right here:
Melanie Smith – www.mudkissphotography.co.uk
Naomi Dryen Smith – www.naomidrydensmith.com
Paul Grace – www.paulgrace-eventphotos.co.uk
Trev Eales – www.trev-eales.com
Adam Edwards – adamedwardsfoto.com
Jack Flynn – www.jackflynnphotography.co.uk
Simon Reed – www.musicalpictures.co.uk
Jim Mumby – jamesamumbyphotography.co.uk
Neil Chapman – unholyracket.co.uk
Liam Maxwell – Instagram
Adam Williams – Instagram
Phil Thorns – Instagram
Due to different photographers who provided photographs for us this yr: in no specific order: Phil Newall, Kevin O’ Sullivan, MK Bennett, Hels Millington, Andy Von Pip, Neil Chapman, Frank Ralph, Keith Goldhanger, Mike Grey, Tessa Carroll, Andrew Poutney, Charis Bagioki, Rachel Emily, Aaron (Kent) AMP pictures, Andi Callen, Jaden Moss, Andrew Twambley. (hopefully, I haven’t missed anybody.) Additionally, we need to shout out in reminiscence of our Berlin photographer Svenja Block, who could be very sadly missed.
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