An insider’s guide to Teesside
This October Twisterella Festival, Middlesbrough's award-winning multi-venue new music festival, will celebrate its tenth edition with performances from the likes of hotly-tipped newcomers Christian Music, Slate, and Tiger Island alongside much-loved names like Martha, Pom Poko and The Howl & The Hum.
In advance of the action, which is centred around the Teesside University campus heart and makes use of local venues and bars, we spoke to some of Teesside's insiders for a guide to the most exciting new bands and the best spots to visit.
Kingsley, singer from Benefits
I heard rumblings of a strange band on local socials, people whispering about this amazingly weird Middlesbrough band called Perfect Chicken (pictured) in boiler suits singing noisy songs about goblins and deprivation on toy keyboards. There’s something beautiful in all the chaos, one of the most original Teesside acts I’ve seen in years, a must see.
Off The Ground Coffee Shop for me is the perfect venue for Twisterella. A wonderfully independent, ethically sound and lovingly run place with an awesomely honest DIY aesthetic. It’s tight and compact for gigs, you’re basically on stage with the band, plus they do unreal desserts.
Twisterella co-promotor Henry Carden
I first discovered Loren Heat (pictured) when they were a student at Teesside Uni and I was doing some guest lecturing there. I was instantly struck by their ability to craft memorable pop-hooks. It’s been incredible to see their journey from ukulele covers on Instagram to becoming a truly unique and vital voice in the North-East music scene in less than twelve months.
For the past eight or nine years The Nuthatch has been leading the way when it comes to bars in Boro. It’s not just one of the best cocktail bars in the area, but I genuinely believe it’s one of the best cocktail bars anywhere! I have been known to sneak away from Twisterella to treat myself to an Old Fashioned part way through the day… although I’ll be on the mocktails this year if I try that trick again!
Twisterella co-promotor Andy Carr
Just before the Westgarth Social Club closed its doors back in February 2023 a throng of the regular gig-goers made for a perfectly formed word-of-mouth final gathering in the legendary downstairs room. A wake of sorts, stories and memories were shared as the beer kegs emptied for what would be the final time. Before the crowds eventually disappeared into the chilly Middlesbrough night, Rick Dobbing aka Dressed Like Wolves (pictured), took to the stage for one last time. A true Westgarth and Teesside legend, he treated the crowd to two beautifully delivered songs. The final offering, Big Pool (but also for that evening known as Closing Time at the Westgarth), was the cue for a few tears to flow, but this was set amongst the knowing smiles between music comrades. We all knew that we'd been part of something so special over a great many years at the venue and Dressed Like Wolves had played such an integral part in that. Through regular festival appearances, great supports and glorious headline shows Rick (often with his band) entertained us and made us so proud. Here's to you Rick. Westgarth Forever. UTFB.
The Teesside University Students' Union team is so important to the successful delivery of Twisterella. In the ten years of the festival they have been with us every step of the way and we remain so grateful for their support in helping to make Twisterella what it is today. The SU is such a great venue for watching live music and I'm thrilled that we have many more touring acts coming to the venue over the coming year.
Rising artist Amelia Coburn
I met Marina Josephina (pictured) when she opened my headline Teesside show last year, and she is an incredibly talented artist. Her voice is like velvet and I love the way she tells the stories behind her songs at her live shows. I’d definitely recommend her music to any fellow jazz lovers! I can’t wait to see her play at Twisterella, this time with a band!
Play Brew is not just your average brewery, it’s home to some of the best events in Middlesbrough. I’m a regular attendee of the monthly Open Book Club, as well as the various gigs, quiz nights and karaokes that they host regularly. If you like good pints, good pizza and good people, this is the place for you.
Rob Nichols, editor of Fly Me To The Moon
I first saw Irked (pictured) playing at The Forum Darlington where their singer Helen took ill within minutes of what would be a false start to the set. They play at a blistering pace, raw energy and power, lyrics at light speed. Singer surging through the audience. Hard hitting words but hilarious between songs. Irked stands out from the crowd.
I am lucky to live near the town's green lung, Albert Park. A Victorian oasis where the Boro first trained and played, nearly 150 years ago and where I park-run at 9am on a Saturday. Venue for the Mela festival, where the community comes together. The heart and soul of Middlesbrough.
Kesia Bruce, Middlesbrough Town Hall General Manager
Although he's perhaps best known as the presenter of BBC Introducing in the North East, Shakk is very much an artist you should be following. He recorded an amazing session at the Town Hall during one of those pauses we had in lockdown where we were actually allowed to leave the house, and his progression since then has been amazing. He played his first full band gig at Orange Pip Market over the summer and absolutely smashed it. We can't wait to welcome him and his band to the Town Hall at Twisterella.
My favourite place to visit in town is the Dorman Museum on Linthorpe Road. Their collections showcase the industrial history of Middlesbrough, alongside new and unique exhibitions covering topics such as the Titanic, Lego and the current Boro Shirt exhibit, which celebrates the history of our football club! The museum itself overlooks Albert Park, which hosts some fantastic community events across the year.
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