The countdown to Live At Leeds has officially begun, with just eight days left until all the buzziest bands descend on Yorkshire. This year, you’ll be able to find Dork in one of the fanciest venues going – The Church. Heading up the bill are The Horrors, with further sets from London four-piece Stereo Honey, local duo Krrum, Dork faves Bad Sounds and Ten Tonnes, and singer-songwriter Tom Walker, who’s not long headlined KOKO no less. There’s also singer-songwriter (and former Kaiser Chief) Nick JD Hodgson, who’s put together this handy Live At Leeds playlist for us.
I’m really looking forward to playing Live at Leeds because I always feel really welcome in my hometown and getting onstage in the Church will be special. I recently finished a tour at the Wardrobe in Leeds and it was one of the best gigs I think I’ve ever done, ever. I’ve been to the festival before and it feels like live music and live music fans have taken over the city. There’s a buzz everywhere, no one wants to miss the hot gig, you can end up sprinting between venues.
The track of mine I’ve chosen is ‘Tomorrow I Love You’ because it’s my favourite one to play live.
Bloxx – Novocain
I first heard them on Annie Mac and I found myself googling them which is always a good sign. Since then I’ve listened to all the stuff they’ve released. I love how the vocals are so calm and cool but the band is going for it. Definitely need to see them live.
Boy Azooga – Loner Boogie
Also heard this on Annie Mac, I love the QOTSA viiiibes on this song. I don’t know much else about them but people keep mentioning them and I keep seeing their name so I’m intrigued. Plus I love short songs!
Sam Johnson – Way Back Home
I’ve just finished a tour with Sam supporting. He’s a real good guy and has a brilliant voice. It’s just him on stage and he’s really captivating. This is his most recent release and sounds ace, definitely worth seeing now!
Sports Team – Camel Crew
I’ve seen these guys play before and they’re amazing to watch, especially the frontman who’s real watchable! Great lyrics and a great band name and great outfits. I’m interested to hear what comes next from Sports Team.
Superorganism – Everybody Wants To Be Famous
This is a proper hit record which is always fun. I like the band because they’re pulling in so many influences and turning it into pure pop gold. Judging by the Jools Holland performance it’ll be an amazing spectacle live too.
Ten Tonnes – Lay It On Me
I’ve worked with Ten Tonnes in the studio and he’s great. I’ve only seen him play live once and that was last year so I really want to see him after the vast amounts of touring he’s done with everyone from Sterephonics to Rat Boy.
Nadine Shah – Out The Way
I’ve only seen Nadine play live once and it was in the Houses of Parliament which was mad. She was absolutely amazing and stalked the crowd and demanding they listen to every word. Do not miss her performance because it’s guaranteed to be menacing and awesome!
The Magic Gang – Getting Along
Last year at Live At Leeds I walked into the Church and Magic Gang had literally just walked off. Everyone was telling me that they’d been amazing soooooo….I’m definitely gonna see them this year. Love the Cribs vibes on this track, it’s also got a Weezer thing going on which I like.
Live at Leeds takes place on Saturday, 5th May in various venues around Leeds. Visit liveatleeds.com for all the deets.