The Road To Hardwick Semi Final is fast approaching…
After sifting through over 100 applicants, we whittled down the North’s talent to just 16 stellar acts who battled it out in the heats (and let me tell you, the talent was fantastic). The heats showcased an impressive array of genres, from futuristic melodies to heavy punk, indie pop to rocky blues. Thanks to the audience and judges’ votes, we can expect the same diverse lineup in the semi-finals!
The heats provided the perfect introduction to what is set to become The Newgate Social, the North East’s latest live music venue, ready to become a home for grassroots artists, intimate gigs, and up-and-coming talent from every music genre.
The semi-finals span over two dates, with heat winners competing for a coveted spot in the final.
So, what’s up for grabs? The winning band will be thrust into the limelight with incredible prizes, including a feature in top music magazines, a day’s studio time at the prestigious recording studio in Newcastle, a priceless music industry experience session, AND a tailored press campaign courtesy of Northside Creative. Plus, the pièce de résistance – a headline set at Hardwick Festival’s 10th Anniversary at the end of August.
Without further ado, here is the lineup for The Semi-Finals of The Road To Hardwick:
14th June 2024
Tilly Lockey
Tilly Lockey and her band took the stage in the heats, showcasing a mix of well-known indie tracks from the likes of The Hunna and originals like “Porcelain.” We were even treated us to exclusive previews of upcoming songs!
Camel Island
The four lads from Camel Island blew us away in Heat 2 with their energetic performance. Their fresh, gritty soundscape takes inspiration from The Police, Foo Fighters, and Supergrass, and includes their debut single “Autopilot.”
Spilt Milk
Spilt Milk’s unique jazz twist on rock got the audience on their feet and propelled them into the semi-finals. Their distinctive sound, influenced by Jamiroquai and Motown, brought a fresh vibe to the competition.
Shady Quid
Shady Quid, said to be influenced by the rock sound of the 60s and 70s, with their latest single, ‘Under the Oak’, features a heavy blues sound. We were lucky enough to hear it during heat 4, it’s safe to say that it is a tuuuune!
21st June 2024
Pretty Velvet
With an exceptionally strong female and male lead vocal, the five-piece band brought a range of versatility to the stage. Each band member bringing in their own music inspiration to create the sound of Pretty Velvet. Expect catchy riffs with a blues edge all combined into a bit of modern rock!
Swindled
Swindled are more than just a band; they’re a burst of harmonies, intricate lyrics, and distinct voices. Their signature look of dicky bows, shirts, and suit trousers, coupled with a sound reminiscent of The Beatles, wowed the audience.
Jam Tub
The punk rock trio, Jam Tub, set the stage alight on the final night. The band’s sound is described as alternative, gnarly punk rock blended with indie sensibilities and we LOVE it! We saw lead guitarist and singer, Fred, leaping from the stage onto the benches and diving into the audience. It’s safe to say these boys know how to perform!
Gone Tomorrow
Gone Tomorrow took to the stage with some tasty riffs! Playing together since they were 14, so It’s safe to say that the band’s chemistry on stage shone through their performance. People describe them as a live powerhouse fueled with undeniably raw alt-rock and a solid rhythm section. We can certainly see why!
And that’s the lineup! To learn more about each band and see them in action, join us at the The Road To Hardwick Semi Final and watch these incredible acts take centre stage live!
It’s a free event supporting Northern talent – what’s not to love?
