Sound City Review

By Nathan Cole

The esteemed and respected Sound City returns once again for its 15th anniversary this year. It’s my first time experiencing the festival and cannot wait for the opportunity to see some big name artists as well as many rising musicians. Sound City covers many of the popular and well known venues around Liverpool which were once stage to many iconic acts, most famously The Beatles. This event is the perfect continuation of Liverpool’s huge legacy of new and unique additions to the music scene.

Sound City_Credit: Nathan Cole

Walking through town, it’s obvious that the sun is shining over Liverpool, however, you can tell the crowds are gathered for something much different. Sound City has attracted an impressive audience, all crowded near the festival site preparing for a busy day of great music. The queues started to form outside phase one with everybody excited to collect their wristbands and start their highly anticipated weekend!

I made my way through multiple small venues to see the first acts of the day and already bands were attracting substantial crowds. There was a fantastic overtone to the morning with all acts bringing positivity and energy to the morning. Everyone set the tone for an amazing event which was to carry on in this exact way.

Crystal Tides_Credit: Nathan Cole

‘The Lathums‘ were one of two headliners this year along with ‘Self Esteem‘. They were present most of the day, spending their time interacting and talking to people and fans around the festival. The lead up to their performance was insane, with so many fans crowding the arts club theatre. Everyone was prepared with all the energy they could give, screaming out the playlist leading to the main event. Suddenly the lights go dark and music continues to blast around the hall. I’ve never experienced a more energetic reaction than when they walked on stage. The feeling of a beloved band playing after their imposing success made everyone wild.

They opened with their popular song and my favourite; ‘Fight On‘, delivering a brilliant start to their performance. It was amazing to see these enjoyable songs up close and delivered with an energetic vocal performance.

Cassette Theory_Credit: Nathan Cole

My personal favourite act of the night was the local band ‘Blondes‘ I have listened to and watched them live before and it’s always a joy to see them play their lively set. They have built up an enthusiastic set of fans that always bring an amazing atmosphere to their shows creating a staggering show. Fan favourite song ‘Coming Of Age‘ brought so much energy to the audience and filled the room with vibrance. Fans gave it their all and danced across the length of the room while one swung their shirt around the air to the lyric ‘take off your T-shirt’.

It was brilliant to be a part of the community that keeps Sound City special. So many people across the country have come together to make the festival possible and simply to enjoy Liverpool’s evolving music scene. It has been host to many small bands that later have become known worldwide and it is no doubt that we will be seeing countless more artists here who will keep growing and have big futures.

Review and photos by Nathan Cole

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