Let’s face it, we all love music, whether you’re into pop, rock, disco or alternative, it’s the one thing that brings us all together. These acts are the ones to watch, writes Daniel Bird
The Slates may be from West Yorkshire, but their energy matches that of Oasis(Image: Holly Rebecca)
Whether you’re into The 1975, Oasis, Fontaines D.C., Blur, One Direction or any other band or soloist, it’s fair to say music is the one thing that unites us. From bleary-eyed gigs and stumbling across your new favourite musician at festivals, there’s nothing more exciting than putting your headphones in and zoning out.
But in a world with such easy access to new tunes thanks to TikTok and Instagram, it can be hard to choose which new act to download to your smartphone, whether it be via Apple Music, Spotify or Amazon Music.
However, I’ve been to thousands of gigs, countless festivals, and interviewed hundreds of bands and solo artists over the years, so I’ve narrowed down my list of favourites. And while it’s safe to say my taste in music is very varied (hitting shuffle means I can go from Black Sabbath to Girls Aloud…), here are some artists I believe you should check out.
With the summer festival season coming to an end in the coming weeks, my choices have been to perform at various festivals this year. From Tramlines, Kendal Calling and Halo Festival, with some even on the Reading and Leeds line-up, look no further if you want to find artists like Oasis, The 1975 and Myles Smith.
The Royston Club
Having interviewed The Royston Club last year ahead of the release of their album, Songs for the Spine, I knew that they would go on to smash it. And rightly so, they have. They were at Tramlines this year, and following the surge in popularity for hits such as Cariad, it was nearly impossible to see them.
I headed down to The T’Other Stage quite early as I knew there’d be a huge crowd, and how right I was. Their songs, similar to Oasis’ mammoth anthems, instantly transport you to another dimension.
RoeParkin
Sheffield-based musician RoeParkin just has a way of connecting with you. He recently performed at Kendal Calling, and despite not having a huge label backing him or hundreds of thousands of online followers, the crowd was packed, and everybody seemed to be having the best time.
He also has the backing of James Veck-Gilodi of Deaf Havana, who wrote his unreleased (and, quite frankly, epic) track, I Need A Friend, with him. This week, he released his latest single, Do My Clothes Look Better On You? and all I can say is, it’s perhaps the most personal song I’ve heard this year.
RoeParkin has also been recognised by his musical inspiration, Myles Smith, on social media following his covers, which have attracted thousands of views on TikTok.
The Slates
Hailing from West Yorkshire, The Slates match both Oasis and their South Yorkshire counterparts, Arctic Monkeys. The quartet channels their inner 90s Britpop, merged with the classic twist of the rocking 20s.
They were also at Tramlines this year, on the Open Arms stage, and all I can say is – phenomenal. The crowd were gathered in mass and every single person, despite the blistering heat, enjoyed every moment of the performance. I’ve interviewed them before and have a feeling this is just the start of a lengthy career for them.
Arkayla
The Manchester quartet are performing at Leeds Festival this year, and quite frankly, I’m gutted to be missing them. They’re taking to The Grid stage on Thursday, and I don’t arrive until Friday. I’ve seen clips of their performance of Run Kid (taken directly from the pit) at Kendal Calling, and it was mega.
It’s clear they take inspiration from the likes of Oasis with their catchy hooks, so I wouldn’t be shocked if they’re performing at the Co-op Live, AO Arena or Etihad Stadium in the future.
AFTERDRIVE
Hailing from Ipswich, the band met at Suffolk One college before they decided to give music a go in 2022. And it’s worked out well for brothers Ben and Joe Watts, as well as Luke Ellis and Edward Ruff.
They recently performed at the Halo Festival, played a gig with McFly, and, just last year, supported Ed Sheeran in their hometown. But the Jewellery musicians definitely take inspiration from The 1975’s Matty Healy, which has been recognised by Radio 1’s Alyx Holcombe, who described them as “The 1975 meets The Weeknd,” and honestly, I can see it. They’re epic and have come so far in such a short amount of time.
Alex Spencer
I’ve followed Alex on social media for a while now and bumped into him at a gig not too long ago. To say he’s just 19, his talent is just incredible.
Alex is playing Reading and Leeds this year, and I’m extremely excited to be in the crowd, belting out These Will Be The Days, which he released last month. He’s not even turned 20 yet, and he’s already performed across the world, supported Louis Tomlinson and even hyped up his beloved Manchester City earlier this year ahead of their victory parade.
The Lilacs
Hailing from Wigan, Greater Manchester, The Lilacs might not have even released their debut album, Keeping Up With The Jonses, yet, but it will be so worth the wait. The quartet recently dropped their single, What’s The Worst That Can Happen? via independent label, Scruff of the Neck.
This summer has been jam-packed, with performances at Kendal Calling, Y Not and even Tramlines – but that’s not all, they’re heading up to Leeds Festival in a couple of weeks.
Aside from this, they’re hitting the road in February to celebrate their debut album, including a huge show at Manchester’s O2 Victoria Warehouse. It’s a hugely exciting time for the rockers, and my interview with them will be out soon, so keep your eyes peeled.
Roxburgh
Hailing from East London, Roxburgh is one of the best up-and-coming artists I’ve come across. His infectious tones and star-like aura radiate through his new single, Lovebomber, which he has been teasing on social media recently.
One clip in particular sees Roxburgh in all his glory, performing the track at a showcase gig, and it’s evident who he takes inspiration from. His soft yet warm voice instantly puts your mind at ease, making you want to get up and forget about any worries you may have. Keep your eyes on Roxburgh, he’s going to go far.
His track, “I Don’t Wanna Know,” is also top-notch, and the visuals are exceptional. Perfect for a summer day, driving along a country road with the song at full blast.
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