The End Of An Era: Camden Live Takes a Break After Summer
Black Doldrums at Camden Assembly
Amann & The Wayward Sons – July 18th – Dublin Castle
Black Sabbath Weekend in Camden: The Ultimate Tribute Marathon
WIN Tickets to One of Camden’s Hottest Gigs This Sunday: MARVIN LIVE x YUNGBLOOD at KOKO
Jimmy Page – The Wizard of Rock’n’Roll and Led Zeppelin in Camden
CMDN Interview with Philip Sayce
The Queen of Camden
Mother Red Cap – The Witch of Camden
CMDN Live Shows
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🎷 Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The DenirosBack by heartfelt demand! Blues-rock soul from Bilbao meets Camden’s finest. Last year’s set was unforgettable, and this follow-up promises just as much power, warmth, and community-driven sound.with Seven Red Lions & The Deniros. A night of pure musical connection and power.Read More here
Friday
18 July, 2025
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BLACK DOLDRUMS – The Final CMDN ShowA closing chapter with one of the most immersive bands in modern post-punk. Black Doldrums turn gigs into rituals – swirling shoegaze, gothic edge, and euphoric walls of sound. The perfect send-off.Support from The Dead Zoo and Colour Me Blood RedOur last CMDN gig. Be there.
Thursday
31 July, 2025
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Layne Staley: The Grunge Shaman in Camden 1993
Remembering Layne Staley on his Birthday On this day, August 22nd, we remember and celebrate the life of one of grunge’s greatest voices – Layne Staley. The former lead singer of Alice in Chains would have turned 56 years old today, had he still been with us. A man of immense talent, Layne is remembered for his haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. One of my forever favourite voices and with Alice in Chains and Mad Season, two of my favourite bands. In this blog post, we will delve into Layne Staley’s impact on the grunge scene, his personal character, and the profound appreciation he garnered from other musicians and travel back to 1993 when Alice in Chains played in the Underworld – All images in this blogpost are from that night and I also found a sound file of the original show! The Grunge Shaman: Layne Staley’s Presence He was born on August 22, 1967, in Kirkland, Washington. Growing up in a musical family, Layne developed a deep passion for music from an early age. Inspired by artists like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, he found solace and creative expression through his love for music. Layne captured the hearts of millions with his powerful and distinctive voice. With his soulful, melancholic tones, he had a unique ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in his audience. His vocal range and versatility were highly praised, enabling him to effortlessly transition from soulful ballads to aggressive, gritty rock anthems. Beyond his vocal prowess, Layne’s songwriting abilities were equally remarkable. His lyrics reflected his personal struggles with addiction, depression, and loneliness, resonating deeply with fans who connected with his honest and introspective approach. Layne’s ability to write songs that spoke directly to the human experience is what made him such a beloved and influential figure in the grunge movement. Unfortunately, Layne’s battle with addiction took a toll on his life and career. Despite the challenges he faced, his talent continued to shine through. Songs like “Man in the Box,” “Rooster,” and “Down in a Hole” remain timeless classics, serving as a testament to his exceptional talent and the lasting impact he left on the music world. An Architect of 90s Grunge Revolution Layne is widely regarded as one of the greatest influences in the grunge scene of the 1990s. Alice in Chains, was among the pioneering groups that helped to define the sound of the era, drawing from heavy metal, punk, and alternative rock influences. Staley’s unique sound and introspective and often dark lyrics left an indelible mark that has been felt not only in the world of grunge but in music overall. His ability to convey emotion and introspection through his lyrics set him apart as a truly remarkable artist. Beyond the Microphone: Unveiling Layne Staley’s Essence Layne Staley was known for being a deeply private and introspective person, with a reputation for being both kind and generous. His bandmates and friends have spoken warmly about his character and his dedication to his craft. As a musician, Staley was revered and appreciated by other artists in the industry. Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder once referred to Staley as “the greatest singer to come out of the grunge movement”. Jerry Cantrell, Staley’s bandmate and songwriting partner in Alice in Chains, praised him for his “amazing talent and sensitivity”. Beyond the music, Staley was also a beloved friend and son. His mother, Nancy McCallum, once described him as a “sweet, generous, and genuine” son who was always thoughtful of others. Unfortunately, Staley’s struggles with addiction and depression ultimately claimed his life at the young age of 34. However, his music and legacy continue to inspire generations of fans and artists alike. Layne’s tragic death on April 5, 2002, marked the end of an era for grunge music. He left behind a legacy that continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. While his life was plagued by personal struggles, Layne Staley’s music will always be remembered as a testament to his brilliance, vulnerability, and extraordinary talent. Alice in Chains in Camden’s Underworld In the heart of the grunge movement, 1993, to be precise on January 30th (exactly 2 days and 2 years before I was born 😀 ) Alice in Chains arrived in Camden, London, delivering a concert that would define a generation. We find ourselves transported to the gritty heart of London’s Camden at no other place but the Underworld with Layne Staley’s haunting vocals, Jerry Cantrell’s electrifying guitar, Mike Inez’ pulsating bass, and Sean Kinney’s thunderous drums, the atmosphere crackled with energy. This show marks Inez’ very first concert with Alice in Chains. I wished I could travel back in time to experience this incredible show just a few months after the release of my favourite AIC’s album: In September 1992, Alice in Chains released Dirt. During the show, the band dived into their hits, creating a sonic journey starting the show with ”Dam That River” and more legendary tracks like and “Would?”, ”Bleed the Freak”, ”Love, Hate, Love”, the show ended with no other but “Man in the Box”. Check the full setlist of the night here Some described this night in Camden: ”I was there at the gig and it was the best gig I have ever been to. I remember coming out the the gig and everybody was silent. It was so intense nobody spoke.” Some described this night in Camden: ”I was there at the gig and it was the best gig I have ever been to. I remember coming out the the gig and everybody was silent. It was so intense nobody spoke.” Were you there? If so, please let us know more about this night! Unfortunately, I never got to see Layne live but I’ve seen AIC in Glasgow a few years ago, it brought tears to my eyes and everyone else in the crowd when William DuVal dedicated Down in a Hole to Layne, whilst Jerry Cantrell kissed the sky. The atmosphere was incredibly emotional and one could sense the heavy sadness within the former band members. Last year, I had the honour to see a quite intimate gig of Jerry Cantrell in London, he started the show with ‘Them Bones’ and covered many more AIC songs – the crowd was energetic and we danced all night, I highly recommend catching him live if you ever have the chance! Today, as we commemorate Layne Staley on his birthday, we reflect on the profound impact he had on the world of rock music. His legacy as one of the greatest voices of the grunge era is unquestionable. Happy birthday, Layne. Your voice lives on. Sources: https://www.allmusic.com/artist/alice-in-chains-mn0000606856/biography https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/layne-staley-alice-in-chains-death-anniversary-15-years-ago-today-113883/ https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/eddie-vedder-layne-staley-was-the-greatest-singer-to-come-out-of-the-grunge-movement/ https://www.revolvermag.com/music/10-reasons-why-well-never-forget-layne-staley https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/layne-staley-a-voice-that-will-never-be-forgotten-117717/ https://www.songkick.com/concerts/584802-amorphis-at-underworld https://www.pastemagazine.com/music/layne-staley/layne-staley-a-voice-that-will-never-be-forgotten/ https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/alice-in-chains/1993/the-underworld-london-england-2bfcacea.html https://ultimatepopculture.fandom.com/wiki/Alice_in_Chains#cite_note-Inez_joins-63 https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=ms.c.eJw1yskJADAMA8GOgmX5kPtvLAGT~%3BQ2sJl9EQzLU0TrW~%3BG5LByO~_ncoo~_brY7~_~_BXYlIEDo~-.bps.a.895555303854684.1073741963.232077143535840&type=1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=sRMUUdkhGkE https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/jerry-cantrell/2022/o2-shepherds-bush-empire-london-england-13b51d1d.html https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fpin%2F95560823327416902%2F&psig=AOvVaw3Hk_2f01K2CTyhs5fDRnyq&ust=1692793084061000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CA8QjRxqFwoTCMCXhfWf8IADFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.at%2Fpin%2F331155378849843924%2F&psig=AOvVaw3Hk_2f01K2CTyhs5fDRnyq&ust=1692793084061000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CA8QjRxqFwoTCMCXhfWf8IADFQAAAAAdAAAAABAQ
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Prince’s Secret Love Affair with Camden
Nb By the time the artist formerly known as Prince had changed his name to O(+> , an unpronounceable love symbol that fused the masculine and feminine parts of hisself, so that’s what I’ll be calling him in this article. What can I say? O(+> was epic, otherworldly… The artist had a connection to Camden throughout his life, and while he was always a Minneapolis-born performer, he had his fair share of gigs in the capital, and in Camden itself. He had a difficult childhood, and music was the thing that he used to escape his life, to escape everything. He created his own world and spent so much time doing music that he could play all of the instruments extremely well for his funkaliciously magnificent first demo tape. In 1988 O(+> performed at the Camden Palace (aka KOKO) on the 26th of July. He played a cover of ‘I’ll Take You There’ by The Staple Singers, along with classics, ‘Strange Relationship’ and ‘Under the Cherry Moon’. Prince Shop balcony. Source: twitter In 1994 he set up a shop on Chalk Town road, named after his 1987 album, Sign o’ the Times. Fans piled in having waited for hours to see O(+> wave from the balcony above the shop with his future wife and (at the time) backing dancer, Mayte Garcia (who went on to act, dance and sing professionally in her career). Fans then piled into the shop, which was full of pungent purple incense, lots of candles, the classic ‘cloud’ guitar, purple trench coats and a few records and CDs. The press called it a money spinner. I reckon it was just another way O(+> could share a bit of his world with his fans. The cloud guitar, possibly the coolest and most ‘flowey’ guitar ever made. It was a maple wood, giving it that signature clean sound that O(+> has on ‘Purple Rain’. O(+> always did what O(+> wanted to do… so it wasn’t too much of a surprise to fans when he decided to set up a series of his own private secret mystery tour around Camden in 2014. Having painted the word ‘slave’ on his face, feeling that he was being controlled too much by the industry and his record label, O(+> managed to break out, feeling that tours should not be restricted by set times and dates and venues. The thing is, for many other people, this would just mean a disorganised mess. But with O(+>, he always had a vision, he was very capable, driven and hardworking, and he knew what he was doing. Plus, if O(+> says he’s doing a show, even to one person, they’re sure to come in droves, just on the off chance that there’s some truth to it. The series of secret awesome gigs in Camden took place after he had gained more creative freedom following his battle with Warner Brothers, made public when he wrote the word ‘slave’ on his face. He felt creatively restricted and didn’t mean to compare himself to any other slave, past or future. Fortunately, this gig series were totally his own decision, as he felt he didn’t want to be tied to rigid schedules or large venues. The first one at the Electric Ballroom only held about 70 people. Another started at 12:30am. “Everyone was just pinching themselves. We couldn’t believe what they were witnessing,” said journalist, Paul Kramer, on BBC Radio 5 live’s Up All Night. Lines of people waited around the block to see if the rumours on twitter were correct, and Prince was actually going to be playing at the Electric Ballroom, KOKO and King’s Place. Just a few months later, he set up two gigs at the Roundhouse as a part of his ‘Hit and Run’ tour. Fans were given 48 hour’s notice, but tickets had sold out within four minutes. Prince at KOKO for autism rocks. Source: twitter In February 2015, he also played at the Autism Rocks concert at KOKO, another surprise appearance. You were lucky if you saw this last gig in Camden, as only 5 months later Prince died. After years of hard work, obsessive dedication to his craft and jumping off of pianos, and holding guitars, the work took its toll on his body. It was following a hip operation that O(+> was taking the painkillers. He had been taking painkillers laced with fentanyl, an opioid 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroine. Fentanyl was responsible for 20,000 deaths in America from 2012-2016. More people who overdosed that year were dying because of fentanyl than heroine. Prince was one of these people. Many of them did not even realise the drugs they were taking were laced with opioids. The sad fact is that usage and overdoses are increasing in the US, even in 2021 opioid overdose-related deaths are up 54% in America. This is the kind of drug that ends up in the hands’ of famous musicians, who are working tirelessly on tour. Tom Petty’s daughter is campaigning against the use of the drug and to share the dangerous effects it can have, since her father died of the same cause in 2017. Prince Grafitti. Source: pinterest The artist formerly known as Prince was an icon, a revolution, a symbol of being exactly who you want to be. His image was painted in 2018 on the back of the Electric Ballroom – across the loading doors where his gear would’ve been shipped in for his performances there. It’s a beautiful image by artist, Mr Cenz, which includes O(+>’s love symbol entwined in his hair. So part of him will always remain in Camden’s history and heart. The world lost a beautiful person when they lost O(+>. I can only hope he’s up there ripping a sick riff up in rock n roll heaven. Were you one of the lucky fans who went to one of his shows? I want to know everything. Tell me in the comments below.
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Record Shops in Camden That You Must Visit
Written by Elizabeth Strasser-Nicol As a teenager in the 90s, I frequently took the bus from Harlesden, to visit Camden’s record shops and nameless stalls, searching for escape through the sounds I’d never heard before. Overwhelmed by the crowded exteriors, the scent of spliff and incense and the sticky, beer-soaked streets, I would retreat to the safety of a record shop, bury my head in the bootlegs and disappear into a daydream. Due to a tonne of music venues that have existed since the Old Bedford Hall, music in Camden is something you typically go out to experience. Spending a Saturday in a Camden record store is just another way to do that. A day-long social event. A place to meet people and make connections. Disc Disciples Market Hall, Camden Lock Place NW1 8AF DJ Danny from Disc Disciples This tiny gem is easy to miss. Nonetheless, it’s a fantastic place for second-hand vinyl. Locals and tourists alike, excitedly flip through the bright orange header boards, looking for what they didn’t know they wanted. There’s mostly Rock and Pop as well as Rap, Hip Hop, New Jack Swing and a huge collection of Dance records from Deep House to Jungle and UK Garage. A record stall always reveals the love of its owner. Founder Danny Haywood, a DJ himself, is constantly busy, standing on stalls, reaching for albums handed to him by his staff, to replace the ones just bought. He tells me it’s the Stables Record Fair today and there’s a real frantic buzz about the place. Someone looking to buy a slice of the 90s asks for Oasis then, ambitiously, a Beatles record. One of the albums cost £70. The buyer thinks twice. Danny directs him to another Camden record shop – Massive International, in the Middle Yard; a direction I am glad to have overheard, as I did about two laps of the market, prior and I still couldn’t find it. Massive International 33, Middle Yard NW1 8AF Massive International The size of a record shop determines how much time you’re likely to spend there. Massive International is probably the biggest record shop in Camden. I was there about an hour and left before the person who came before me. Every corner is adorned with something eye-catching, whether it’s pictures of Bob Marley and Haile Selassie or the racks of Ska, Reggae and Dancehall. Then there’s the most amount of turntables I’ve ever seen in one shop, where you can listen to the LPs attached to the bamboo curtain on the walls. It is a reggae palace. They sell everything other than music too – t-shirts, posters, ointments and rasta hats. There’s also an old-school television set showing Reggae Unplugged TV. Out on the Floor Records 10, Inverness Street NW1 7HJ Out on the floor records. Source: facebook A man rushes past me, leaving his patient wife outside holding his rucksack, like an abandoned mother. No ‘see you in a bit’ from him. It’s urgent. Inside, you can see why. The bright turquoise walls are adorned with shelves of vinyl, preciously wrapped in shimmering plastic sleeve covers. The pockets with hand-painted band and record label logos, re-branded to look like retro fresh-produce adverts, are a colourful addition. If you didn’t know any better, you would think you were at a Cuban food stall. Buying and selling 12” and 7” records, the shop displays a broad range of music, from Fairport Convention to James Brown. Decorative pocket dividers direct you to band and genre, from 60s & 70s Rock to Soul/Funk, Hip Hop and House & Techno. They even sell their own dub collections – like the Out on the Floor special for £12.99 – due to owner Jake’s love of Reggae. There’s even a turntable – something I never used to see in this type of shop. Now, in every Camden record shop, you’ll find someone hogging the headphones. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfsLlHHjNlA Rock n’ Roll Soldiers Unit D34, Horse Tunnel, Stables Market NW1 8HA Rock’n’Roll Soldiers. Source: facebook From colour to absolute blackness, the Rock n’ Roll Soldiers stall has no sign outside the cage-like entrance. It doesn’t need to. The theatrically positioned speakers, hanging from the ceiling, are an instant calling-card. Selling LPs of mainly rock and metal, the owner had a change of passion from when he first started: ‘I stopped buying t-shirts and I started buying records. I brought half of my record collection to the stall.’ His stall has been moved around Camden Market 45 times. ‘Now I’m okay. The last one, I was in a basement and I was really struggling, so I asked to be moved.’ Why did he choose Camden for his record stall? ‘At the time there was lots of music stuff happening in Camden – Punk, Heavy Metal …’ As with Rock On Records, he accepts that he has to integrate his customer: ‘It’s not my thing but I know I have to have Abba [in the stall].’ Probably not buying Abba was Dave Grohl, who once stopped by for a browse and a chat! No pictures allowed but one was taken a while ago, of the owner, which lies at the entrance. Where is he? ‘He died of Coronavirus,’ the woman currently manning the stall tells me. She’s in the photo too. They were friends. She is not the only person here who is experiencing loss. Outside, in the Wild Horses record shop, I ask for the owner. His daughter, who is currently looking after the shop, tells me that he isn’t there and that she isn’t sure when he will return: ‘This is going to sound strange but… since Charlie Watts died, he hasn’t been back.’ Let It Roll Let It Roll Records. Source: let it roll records Let It Roll is clean, streamlined, cool but not too conventional, or gimmicky, with their own coffee brand picked for sale (Pepita Coffee) they’ve got an outside terrace and in-house DJ sets. In the downstairs room, where you can drink a rich coffee, there’s also a decent art exhibit of hand-picked artists. In terms of records they’ve got plenty of Amy Winehouse tracks, so if you’re a fan, this is the place to go. More mainstream albums, as well as some rare finds. Prince, Fleetwood Mac, Mac Miller… if you can think of the band, you can probably buy it here. Kieran, the owner, knows what he’s talking about, so if you’re looking for a gem, you won’t have to go through hoards of records, he’ll be ready to sell it to you! Rock and Roll Rescue Rock n Roll Rescue. Source: facebook Rough, ready and ready to rock… The walls of Rock and Roll records are plastered with posters and cool f*cking electric guitars and handmade punk t-shirts. The money you spend on these beautys goes towards the local food bank, MIND mental health charity, people at the bottom of the welfare system, Crossroads Women’s refuge, and a load of other admirable causes. So you feel good about spending more on records than you planned to. Like a record shop from ‘back in the day’, every surface is covered. It’s a small space but that doesn’t stop if being filled to the brim with potential gold dust, with lots of gems hidden within the stacks of records. If you want cheap CD players or are a retro head, then you can find some bargains here. They also sell some decent kit, so you can search for a second hand amp if you’re in the market for one. It’s right next to the Dublin Castle and is run by the same people, so you know you’re getting a friendly welcome. Rock On Records Rock on records. Source: @Iliveadream Rock on Records is now an online affair, but was once a Camden record shop. Selling everything from Country to Soul, it first opened its doors to Camden’s record hunters in 1975. Rock on Records founder Ted Carroll and label co-owner Roger Armstrong: Roger: It was amazing. I would go over there late morning on a Saturday with no plans, and you’d end up somewhere in the early hours of the next morning. Ted: It drew interesting people. Our regular customers included virtually all the punk bands, Jimmy Page, Bob Dylan came in one day, Lenny K – all sorts. It was a real meeting place. Camden Records Shops map. Source: google maps Camden’s record shop owners are clearly very passionate about what they do. That dedication hasn’t changed, nor has the dedication of their customers. A day out at Camden’s record shops is still an exciting experience. Make sure you pop along. You never know which rare gem you might find!
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Oasis Reunion, Tour Announcement and Camden: A Nostalgic Journey Back to Britpop’s Heartbeat!
The brothers are back after 15 years! We can’t believe it! All the rumours are true!With today’s thrilling announcement of their reunion tour, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on why Camden has always been so crucial to their legacy and the broader music world! A tip from our side: legends say, that every Oasis tour would end up in the Good Mixer pub in Camden, so you might want to hang around in the area after the London gig – who knows who you might meet! Camden, London, is more than just a bustling market district; it’s a cradle of rock ‘n’ roll history! Find out below about how one of the most influential bands of the Britpop era, Oasis’s story is deeply intertwined with Camden’s vibrant music scene. Camden in the 90sCamden has long been the heartbeat of London’s rock ‘n’ roll scene, a dynamic area where countless legendary artists have started their careers or found their fame. For Oasis, Camden wasn’t just only a place to be; it was a launchpad. In the early ’90s, the band played at local hotspots like The Water Rats and Dingwalls, but it was The Good Mixer, an iconic Irish pub in Camden, that truly became their second home. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and being a hub for Britpop stars, The Good Mixer was where Oasis and their contemporaries gathered, and where the notorious Blur-Oasis rivalry is said to have sparked.Noel Gallagher’s personal connection to Camden is equally significant. He lived in a basement flat at 88 Albert Street, a location now etched in Oasis lore. It was here that Noel received the life-changing phone call informing him that he had become a millionaire, a moment he describes as one of the most memorable of his career. Camden, with its unique blend of musical energy and personal significance, was integral to the band’s rise!The Big ReunionAfter 15 years of speculation and sibling feuding, the Gallagher brothers are back together! The recent announcement of Oasis’s reunion tour has set the music world abuzz, marking the end of a long hiatus that followed their split in 2009. Liam and Noel Gallagher, despite their often-publicised disputes, are reuniting to bring their electrifying live shows back to fans around the world!This tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a celebration of Oasis’s legacy and a tribute to the places that shaped their story! Sadly, there won’t be a Camden concert this time but still, the inclusion of Camden in the fans’ tour route is particularly important, reconnecting the band with a location that played a pivotal role in their journey! For fans, it’s a chance to relive the Britpop magic and experience the historic venues that were central to the band’s early success. Ticket InformationTickets for the highly anticipated reunion tour will go on sale on August 31st at 09:00. Given the immense popularity of Oasis and the nostalgic pull of their Camden connection, you’ll want to set your alarm early—these tickets are expected to sell out fast!JULY 20254th – Cardiff, Principality Stadium5th – Cardiff, Principality Stadium11th, 12th, 19th, 20th – Manchester, Heaton Park25th, 26th – London, Wembley StadiumAUGUST 20252nd, 3rd – London, Wembley Stadium8th, 9th – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium16th, 17th – Dublin, Croke ParkSo far, these are the only Europe dates announced, but apparently there are plans to take Oasis Live 25 to other continents outside of Europe later next year! Camden’s Rock HistoryCamden’s role in music history cannot be overstated. As a hub for rock ‘n’ roll, the area has been a launchpad for countless artists and bands, making it a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about music. The energy and history of Camden make it a place where the past and present converge, offering a unique experience for music lovers and fans of legendary acts like Oasis.As the band prepares for their tour, Camden remains a central piece of their story. For those lucky enough to be in town, visiting The Good Mixer and other local landmarks will be a perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage that helped shape Oasis.Oasis’s reunion tour is not just about the music; it’s a celebration of the places and moments that defined their journey. Camden, with its deep-rooted connection to the band’s early success, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of rock ‘n’ roll and Britpop. For fans and newcomers alike, this tour and Camden’s vibrant scene offer a unique opportunity to experience the magic of an iconic era in music!Sources:Oasis’ Instagram AccountSky NewsCamden MarketImage 1Image 2
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Coldplay
From Intimate Camden Stages to Global StardomWe know Camden, has long been synonymous with musical greatness, serving as a launchpad for countless iconic bands. One of its most celebrated success stories is Coldplay, whose journey from small stages to international acclaim is deeply rooted in Camden’s rich musical heritage.By attending gigs in Camden, you’re immersing yourself in the very scene that nurtured bands like Coldplay, witnessing the potential stars of tomorrow!Coldplay’s connection to Camden began even before their rise to fame. Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland shared a flat at 268 Camden Road, where they often rehearsed with band friend Tim Crompton. This flat was a short walk from Camden Town, the epicenter of London’s indie music scene at the time. These early sessions laid the groundwork for the band’s unmistakable sound.Coldplay’s first-ever show under their new name took place at the Dublin Castle, one of Camden’s most iconic venues. This performance marked the beginning of their journey as the band we know today! Coldplay’s first concert as “Coldplay” took place at The Dublin Castle in Camden, London, on February 22, 1998. This historic performance marked a turning point for the band as they moved on from their original name, Starfish. The Dublin Castle, a legendary venue known for launching acts like Madness, Blur, and Amy Winehouse, played a crucial role in shaping the careers of countless artists, including Coldplay.The band’s set at The Dublin Castle was also where they first connected with sound engineer Dan Green, who would later become a key collaborator, mixing nearly all of their live shows and even co-producing albums with the group. At this intimate venue, Coldplay also dealt with logistical challenges common to up-and-coming bands, such as sharing equipment with other performers and other typical concert drama. Below a note that describes an argument between the promoter and other band playing on the night and how the band ended up stealing the drum kit. Bands – if you’re reading this and there are ever any disagreements during our CMDN gigs – please let’s just talk and don’t just steal any instruments, thank you.I suppose, these are also the experiences that highlight the grassroots spirit of Camden’s music scene and the resilience of artists starting their careers here. In addition to its role as Coldplay’s early proving ground, the Dublin Castle remains a symbol of Camden’s vibrant music history. Known for its tiny stage and lively atmosphere, the venue encapsulates the charm of Camden’s live music culture—a place where both artists and fans come together to create unforgettable moments.Interestingly, their very first gig occurred also in Camden, on January 16, 1998 at The Laurel Tree pub, a venue no longer active in the live music scene (since 2011 this has been a branch of Brew Dog). Despite being relative newcomers, the band managed to sell out the show, largely due to their efforts in persuading friends to attend—a testament to their early passion and determination. Before settling on the name Coldplay, the band briefly went by “Starfish”. The band members were Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, and Will Champion, who met at University College London. Back in May 1998, Coldplay performed at Dingwalls, another iconic club in Camden Lock that we love to use for our CMDN gigs! The audience was sparse, with attendees paying just £4 for entry (how much are Coldplay tickets now again?), making it an intimate experience for the few who witnessed the early stages of a band destined for global fame.Their breakthrough album, Parachutes (2000), catapulted them to fame, but it was their Camden performances that cemented their early reputation. Venues like The Dublin Castle and Dingwalls were crucial in the band’s rise, offering a space where their emotive performances resonated deeply with audiences. Camden’s welcoming atmosphere nurtured their creativity, setting the stage for their global successIn 2006, the band built their own studio, the Bakery, which Chris Martin described as a larger version of Jonny Buckland’s bedroom from their days at Camden Road. This studio became a creative haven, symbolising the enduring impact of Camden on their music.The borough’s legacy in Coldplay’s story was recently highlighted in the Disney+ documentary series Camden, where Chris Martin reflected on the area’s role in shaping the band. The series includes archival footage of Coldplay’s early performances, offering fans a glimpse into their roots in North London.In addition to their musical success, Coldplay have shown a commitment to giving back to the live music scene. The band donated 10% of proceeds from their Wembley and Hull shows to the Music Venue Trust, an organisation dedicated to preserving grassroots music venues across the UK, underscoring the importance of nurturing the very spaces that helped launch their career – pretty cool, huh?Why Camden MattersColdplay’s journey from Camden Road to global stardom highlights the borough’s unique ability to cultivate raw talent. By attending live gigs in Camden today, you’re supporting the next wave of musical legends and keeping this incredible tradition alive. Be part of the story—join the Camden experience and get tickets to our next gigs!If you were lucky enough to be part of any of Coldplay’s gigs in Camden – reach out, let me know if you have any interesting facts or cool additions to this blogpost, I’d love to hear about it!Rock on,NilaReferences:Disney+ Camden DocumentaryColdplay’s Early Performances at the Dublin CastleCamden’s Influence on Coldplay’s CareerMusic Venue Trust and Coldplay’s ContributionsThe live debut – Coldplay Timeline
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Celebrating Robert Plant and his connection to Camden
On August 20th we celebrate the birthday of Robert Plant, the iconic frontman of Led Zeppelin, whose voice has left an indelible mark on rock music. Known for his powerful and ethereal vocal style, Plant, along with Led Zeppelin, revolutionised rock with a sound that was as heavy as it was groundbreaking. As we honour his legacy, we of course will also spotlight Camden, which played a crucial role in the band’s early history and continues to resonate with its rock and roll spirit.Celebrating Robert Plant: The Golden God of Rock’s Timeless Voice and Camden’s Connection with him and Led ZeppelinCamden’s venues have been the backdrop for some of rock’s most legendary moments, including Led Zeppelin’s pivotal performance at The Roundhouse on November 9, 1968. This was their first official London show after shedding their old name and emerging as the heavyweights of rock. Robert Plant famously spent his wedding morning preparing for this iconic gig, humorously noting that he spent his honeymoon at The Roundhouse.In this blog post, we delve into Plant’s remarkable connection to Camden, share amusing anecdotes about his rock ‘n’ roll adventures in the area, and explore how Camden’s vibrant music scene continues to celebrate its legendary past. Read on to discover how you can immerse yourself in Camden’s rich rock heritage and experience the magic of live music that once set the stage for rock legends.Happy 76th birthday, Robert!The Camden and Led Zeppelin ConnectionCamden, known for its vibrant music scene and iconic venues, has long been a hub for rock and roll. The area’s gritty streets and eclectic energy have nurtured countless artists, but it’s the legends like Led Zeppelin that truly put Camden on the global rock map.One of the most notable moments in Led Zeppelin’s early career took place at Camden’s iconic venue, The Roundhouse. On November 9, 1968, Led Zeppelin played their first official London show at The Roundhouse, marking a pivotal moment in their history. This performance came after the band returned from their inaugural Scandinavian tour, having shed their previous name, The New Yardbirds. They had now emerged as one of the heaviest rock bands in the world.Interestingly, Robert Plant spent his wedding day on the morning of the gig, famously remarking that he spent his honeymoon at The Roundhouse. This legendary show featured a setlist that included classics such as Train Kept a Rollin’, I Can’t Quit You Baby, You Shook Me, Dazed & Confused, White Summer / Black Mountain Side, Babe I’m Gonna Leave You, How Many More Times, and Communication Breakdown. An office memo from Jimmy Page’s personal collection noted the details of the gig: “Saturday 9th November 1968. Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, N.W.1. Arrive by 1:30am (Sun. morning) in time to go on stage by 2am. 1×50 minute spot.” This was a key time for the band, as they were still in transition from being known as the Yardbirds to embracing the name Led Zeppelin.Jimmy Page later recalled the performance in January 1969: “(At the Roundhouse), we did alright. We only played a couple of dates in London – The Roundhouse and Marquee. The Marquee was fantastic – just great. We were totally knocked out when we came out of there. We thought they might have had it in for us because at that date, we were still calling ourselves the Yardbirds – we hadn’t thought of using Led Zeppelin yet.”Rafael de Swarte from the support act, Tyres, provided a memorable anecdote about the gig: “It was an exciting time, and just before Zeppelin headed to the States. John Lee Hooker was hanging around backstage watching. It was a good gig, except at one point the guitarist was left playing nothing – his lead had come out. We looked around and John was peering around the curtain looking at us, with the lead curled around his foot! We never worked out if he was joking, clumsy or trying to get us to stop.”These early gigs at The Roundhouse were crucial in shaping Led Zeppelin’s identity and sound, cementing their connection to this vibrant area.A famous Camden encounter between Jimmy snd Robert happened right in front of the World’s End next to Camden Town Station (right on the little island at the crossing!) – this was a promotional interview for their new project. Jimmy Page and Robert Plant’s latest project, “No Quarter,” emerged from their MTV Unplugged session and marks a dynamic reinvention of their classic Led Zeppelin material, which was released on the 14th of October 1994. This album blends traditional Zeppelin elements with fresh influences, featuring collaborations with Egyptian musicians on a mesmerizing version of Kashmir, and Indian vocalist Najma Akhtar on a reimagined Battle of Evermore. New tracks like Yallah and City Don’t Cry introduce hypnotic chants recorded in Marrakesh with Gnawa musicians, exploring spiritual and cultural depths.The journey to “No Quarter” began during Page’s remastering of Zeppelin’s albums, which rekindled his desire to work with Plant after 14 years apart. MTV’s Unplugged invitation provided a tangible opportunity for them to reconnect, aiming to evolve rather than merely revisit their past. By deliberately not including former Zeppelin keyboardist John Paul Jones in the project—who expressed disappointment at learning about it from the press rather than being informed personally—Page and Plant have sidestepped the typical “Led Zeppelin Reunion” headlines. The album highlights often overlooked Celtic-Gaelic and Egyptian influences, contrasting with the simplistic view some critics hold that Led Zeppelin’s career is defined solely by hits like Whole Lotta Love and Black Dog.The Power of Camden Town: Bringing Legends TogetherIn a recent, Robert Plant was asked if Led Zeppelin might reunite for a special performance to celebrate their legacy. With his characteristic wit, Plant quipped, “Only in a chip shop in Camden Town! I think that’s about as close as we will get to it! We are very pleased and glad with our very, very short career. If you think about it, it’s only 12 years. We get on OK, but, you know…”Plant’s humorous remark adds a dash of magic to the idea of a Led Zeppelin reunion—imagining the iconic band coming together in the most unlikely of places, a Camden chip shop where all of us have been after a night out for some comfort food. It captures the essence of Camden Town, a place so infused with rock history that it could inspire even the wildest of dreams, like a reunion of legends over some cheesy chips.Despite the excitement surrounding potential reunions of classic rock bands, Plant made it clear that Led Zeppelin won’t be following suit anytime soon. Unfortunately! What I’d give to be able to see Led Zeppelin live… I envy our CMDN founder, Jon, who was able to see these legends live in New York at their most iconic gig ever at Madison Square garden in 1977! Soo lucky!!A Night at The Dublin Castle: Robert Plant’s Doppelgänger EncounterCamden’s legendary pubs have seen their fair share of rock history, and The Dublin Castle is no exception. In one of the most memorable stories from this iconic venue, Robert Plant once turned up to watch a Led Zeppelin tribute band. The story, as recounted by Tony, a long-time regular at The Dublin Castle, is nothing short of surreal.“Robert Plant turned up to see a Led Zeppelin tribute band, and the guy on the door didn’t know he was Robert Plant, even though there was a guy on stage looking identical, singing—‘cos you’d think everyone would know Led Zeppelin, right? But this one guy doing work for us briefly didn’t recognize him and he charged him! And Robert Plant paid! But then he walked in, and he couldn’t handle watching it—he ran out. I think it was too realistic,” Tony says, laughing.Al, another regular and the pub’s unofficial guide, chimes in, “’Cos Robert Plant’s such a quiet man.” Tony agrees, adding, “Yeah, he is. He’s a nice guy. He used to come in here a lot, haven’t seen him for a while.”This anecdote perfectly captures the humble and unassuming nature of Robert Plant, a rock legend who can still be found in the heart of Camden, blending in with the crowd, yet forever connected to the legacy of Led Zeppelin. Make sure to come to our gigs at Dublin Castle, who knows who you might meet 😉Camden’s Rock Legacy: You can be part of it!Today, Camden continues to honour its rock heritage, and what better way to celebrate Robert Plant’s legacy than by immersing yourself in Camden’s vibrant live music scene? Attending a concert in Camden is not just about enjoying great music; it’s about becoming part of a living history. Whether you’re catching a show at The Roundhouse, Electric Ballroom, or one of the many intimate venues dotted around Camden, you’re stepping into a tradition that has seen the likes of Led Zeppelin, The Clash, and Amy Winehouse.By joining our Camden live concerts, you are not just a spectator—you’re a participant in the ongoing story of rock and roll. The energy of the crowds, the passion of the performers, and the unique vibe of Camden create an experience that’s unlike any other. Every chord struck, every lyric sung is a tribute to the rock legends who came before, and a promise of more history to be made.Check out our next showsCelebrating Robert Plant’s Birthday in CamdenSo, as we raise a glass to Robert Plant on his birthday, let’s also celebrate Camden—the beating heart of London’s rock scene. What better way to honor the man who helped define rock and roll than by experiencing the music in a place that has shaped and been shaped by it?Come be a part of Camden’s rock legacy. Feel the pulse of history, the thrill of live music, and the spirit of legends like Robert Plant who have made Camden an iconic destination for music lovers worldwide.Join us at Camden live concerts and be a part of rock history—because in Camden, the music never stops!If you’re a Led Zep fan, which I very much assume if you have managed to continue reading this blog until now – I wholeheartedly recommend to you to not miss our gig with Dirty Sound Magnet on September 25th at Dingwalls! Pure psychedelic rock coming all the way from Switzerland for an incredible night of Rock’n’Roll! We will also host a pre gig meet-up for people to make friends in the scene, so you will find a lot of Led Zeppelin fans there with us 🙂Hopefully see you all soon!Sources:The Roundhouse. “History.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.roundhouse.org.uk/about/history. Led Zeppelin Official. “Led Zeppelin Timeline.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.ledzeppelin.com/. Camden History Society. “Camden and the Birth of Rock and Roll.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.camdenhistorysociety.org.uk/. BraveWords. “Robert Plant on Led Zeppelin Reuniting for 50th Anniversary Performance: ‘Only in a Chip Shop in Camden Town!'” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://bravewords.com/news/robert-plant-on-led-zeppelin-reuniting-for-50th-anniversary-performance-only-in-a-chip-shop-in-camden-town-i-think-thats-about-as-close-as-we-will-get-to-it. The Independent. “Led Zeppelin Could Only Reunite in a Camden Chip Shop, Lead Singer Robert Plant Says.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/led-zeppelin-reunion-camden-chip-shop-robert-plant-performance-a8436121.html. Led Zeppelin Official. “Roundhouse, November 9, 1968.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.ledzeppelin.com/show/roundhouse-november-9-1968. Loudersound. “The Roundhouse London.” Accessed August 21 LZ078 : Robert Plant – Iconic Images Visit Creator: Terry O’Neill | Credit: Terry O’Neill / Iconic ImagesCopyright: © Iconic Images Limited Led Zeppelin, La Totale”: plongée dans l’alchimie d’un géant du rock Where is Robert Plant’s Ex-Wife, Maureen Wilson, Today? Led Zeppelin: Pictures show first concert, in 1968 – BBC News ROBERT PLANT AND JIMMY PAGE INTERVIEWED (1994)
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Black Doldrums Camden Assembly July 31st – CMDN’s last gig
It’s the end of an era. After years of championing live music in the heart of Camden, spotlighting underground heroes, international icons, and homegrown legends – CMDN Live is coming to a close. One last gig. One final night of distortion, sweat, community, and catharsis. I still can’t believe I’m writing this.BUT there’s no better band to close the book than Black Doldrums.🎫 camden-live.com/tickets 🎸 THE FINAL CMDN GIG: BLACK DOLDRUMS @ CAMDEN ASSEMBLY | 31 JULYHailing from London, Black Doldrums are one of the UK’s most exciting sonic forces in the modern post-punk and shoegaze scenes. The trio: Kevin Gibbard (vocals/guitar), Sophie Landers (drums), and Matthew Holt (bass) don’t just play music; they conjure atmospheres. Their sound is a heady collision of gothic rock, reverb-heavy psychedelia, and hypnotic rhythms, creating what Rolling Stone calls “a mix of Gothic-rock and shoegaze sounds to die for.”Formed with a DIY spirit and deep reverence for the darker edges of rock history, Black Doldrums quickly found a cult following across Europe. Their 2022 debut album Dead Awake earned them critical acclaim, but it’s their sophomore LP, In Limerence (2024), that cemented their place as one of the genre’s most vital new voices. That album, praised by Louder Than War for its “lush yet glacial soundscapes” — pushes their sound to new depths, balancing intensity with eerie beauty. Onstage, they’re a force of nature.Landers’ drumming is primal and commanding – each beat a ritual. Holt’s basslines weave a brooding undercurrent of tension and drive. And Gibbard’s layered guitar textures spiral into the ether – melodic, distorted, euphoric.Their performances feel less like gigs and more like ceremonies. You don’t just hear Black Doldrums – you feel them. It’s the kind of immersive experience that’s drawn comparisons to Joy Division, Bauhaus, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and My Bloody Valentine – but they’re not nostalgic. They’re future-facing, building on the past to forge their own haunting, beautiful path. Read more about last year’s gig here This July 31st, Black Doldrums return to Camden Assembly, exactly one year after they last turned it into a cathedral of sound. That night still echoes in our minds – and this time, it’s even more emotional. Because it’s not just another gig. It’s the last one. The last chance to experience CMDN Live in its rawest, loudest, most transcendental form.🖤 CMDN Live x Black Doldrums – The Final Show📍 Camden Assembly🗓️ Wednesday, 31 July 2025🕖 Doors: 7.30 PM🎟️ £13 advance / £15 on the door🎫 camden-live.com/ticketsWhat the press says about Black Doldrums:“A mix of Gothic-rock and shoegaze sounds to die for” — Rolling Stone“A fierce combination of post-punk, reverb, drone and melody” — Uncut“Youthful and ambitious contemporary rock ‘n’ roll” — Shindig!“Awe-inspiring… Black Doldrums create transient and euphoric dark post-punk.” — Louder Than WarIf you’ve ever felt the buzz of a Camden night crackling… come feel it one more time. Let’s raise a glass, raise the volume, and send with us this thing off in style.This is the final CMDN Live show. Be there. 🖤
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Amann & The Wayward Sons – July 18th – Dublin Castle
They’re Back! July 18th – CMDN Presents: Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The Deniros 🔥🇬🇧Amann & The Wayward Sons are hitting the UK this July, and we’re beyond thrilled to welcome them back to Camden for one very special night at The Dublin Castle on July 18th, 2025.This isn’t just another gig. It’s a reunion of wholesomeness, a celebration of sounds, and the kind of Rock’n’Roll community-driven moment we live for here in Camden! I mean, see for yourself below! 💥 July 18th, 2025📍 The Dublin Castle, Camden🎸 CMDN Presents: Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The Deniros🎟️ Tickets: £13 advance / £15 on the door👉 camden-live.com/ticketsLed by the incomparable Pablo Amann, this blues-rock force from Bilbao has been steadily rising through the ranks with their fiery blend of southern soul, roots, and pure rock grit. They’ve played alongside legends like The Beach Boys and Eric Gales, sold out shows across Spain, and earned a growing international fanbase from Canada to Brazil. And now, they’re bringing that heat straight to Camden as part of their brand-new UK tour – and guess what? They’re touring with two of our favourite CMDN bands: the hook-laden rock ‘n’ roll machine that is Seven Red Lions and the heart-punching The Deniros! Last year’s show with Amann was honestly one of the most wholesome, soulful, and electrifying nights we’ve ever had. The room was packed, the guitars were on fire, and the connection between band and crowd was unmistakable. People danced, smiled and strangers left the room as friends. That’s what CMDN is all about – music that makes you feel alive and building this community of rock lovers that we all are, becoming a family! So we’re doing it again. Bigger, louder, with even more heart, now that we aren’t strangers anymore but pals!If you’ve never seen Amann & The Wayward Sons live – this is your chance. Their latest album, When The Day Goes Slow, is a raw and emotionally charged journey that’s already struck a chord with fans across Europe. From the gospel-tinged tributes to the pandemic era to their crowd-funded comeback, this band is all about connection – and they bring that same intensity to every stage they step on.Add in the fierce energy of Seven Red Lions and the vibe of The Deniros, and you’ve got a triple bill that’ll shake Camden to its core! This is more than a gig – it’s a night of unity, defiance, blues and rock ‘n’ roll at its most real. And in the final run of CMDN shows before our summer break, this one means the world to us.💥 July 18th, 2025📍 The Dublin Castle, Camden🎸 CMDN Presents: Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The Deniros🎟️ Tickets: £13 advance / £15 on the door👉 camden-live.com/ticketsLast year’s show with Amann & The Wayward Sons and Seven Red Lions was a real highlight – not just musically, but emotionally. There was a special sense of connection that night – like a big musical family coming together through blues rock, energy, and joy!We’re so excited to bring that feeling back this July, right here in Camden. We can’t stress this enough: you do not want to miss this show. Come be part of something unforgettable.Let’s make this a night we’ll remember – together! Especially since unfortunately, it will be one of our lasts concerts before our break.Love,Nila + the CMDN Live crew🖤🔥🎶
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The End Of An Era: Camden Live Takes a Break After Summer
This is the blog post we never wanted to write.After this summer, Camden Live will be taking a break – and it’s with incredibly heavy hearts that we share this with you: our community, our artists, our team, and everyone who’s ever come to a gig, played our stage, or supported what we do.We started Camden Live out of pure love. Love for the music. Love for Camden. Love for the thrill of a live set that shakes your chest and sticks in your memory for years. Our mission has always been to keep that spirit alive – to spotlight raw talent, bring people together, and keep Camden’s heart beating loud!CMDN Live has been more than a gig series – it’s been a community forged through sweat, raw energy, and the unshakable spirit of Rock’n’Roll. Live music isn’t just what we do – it’s the pulse that keeps us going, the fire we’ve poured ourselves into and the connection we’ve cherished sharing with all of you. We’ve hosted over 200 shows since 2020 with over 500 bands, brought new talent into the spotlight, and made space for people to connect over the raw, irreplaceable energy of live music! We’ve watched new bands blow away their first crowds, seasoned legends return to the roots, and strangers become a crowd – a community – in front of a live stage.But the truth is: live music is struggling right now.Across the UK – and here in London especially – venues are closing, audiences are shrinking, and the scene is being squeezed. Costs are rising, attention spans are dwindling, and people just aren’t turning out like they used to. It’s not about blame. It’s about a very real and painful shift happening right now.For us, live music has never been a business-first operation – it’s been about passion. About soul. About building something with love and running it with grit. But no matter how much we care (and we care deeply), we’ve reached a point where it’s just not financially viable to keep going – at least not right now, and not in the way we believe this should be done.We’re devastated. Because music isn’t just something we like – it’s who we are. It’s how we connect, how we dream, how we breathe. There’s nothing in the world like the energy of a live show. It’s real, unfiltered, communal – and it’s the kind of experience that we believe makes life worth living.To see that kind of beauty struggle… it breaks our hearts.But we’re not walking away defeated. We’re pressing pause. Because even though things are hard, we believe in fighting for something right – and we hope this break gives us the space to figure out how we can keep that fight going.In the meantime, we’ve got three gigs left – and we’re asking you, truly, to come celebrate with us. Let’s go out with fire and joy and volume. Let’s honour what we’ve built together.Get Tickets HereLet’s Go Out the Camden Way — TogetherThese next three shows aren’t just gigs – they’re ours. Yours. Everyone’s. They’re a celebration of everything we’ve built together as the CMDN Live community: the artists, the crew, the regulars, the first-timers, the dancers, the screamers, the ones who stay ’til the lights come up and the guitars go silent.If you’ve ever joined our CMDN gigs and stood in a packed room in Camden and felt the bass in your chest, if you’ve ever discovered your new favourite band by accident, or had a pint with someone who just gets it – then you know why this matters. You’re one of us. And these final shows are for you.We’ve always said CMDN Live isn’t just about putting on gigs – it’s about making space for connection, chaos, and creativity. It’s about people coming together for something real. Something loud. Something you can’t stream or scroll past. And now, more than ever, we need to hold onto that.So join us. Come dance with us. Scream your lungs out. Discover a new band. Bring your mates, your neighbour, your weird cousin who used to play bass in a punk band – everyone’s welcome here. Let’s fill the room with love, volume, and Camden fire.🔹 June 27th @ The Dublin CastleCMDN Presents: Gigi Gold, Holly Harvey, Wild Talk, and Omega Bad – A glam-rock, alt-rock, blues-infused explosion of energy.Get Tickets Here🔹 July 18th @ The Dublin CastleCMDN Presents: Amann and The Wayward Sons, with support from The Deniros and Seven Red Lions – Anthemic BLUES rock with big heart and even bigger hooks.Get Tickets Here🔹 July 31st @ Camden AssemblyCMDN Presents: Black Doldrums, plus The Dead Zoo and Colour Me Blood Red – A dark, swirling finale of noise, psych, goth and post-punk mayhem.Get Tickets HereThis is it. The final three. For now. Let’s make them legendary.This community is the heart of Camden. You’ve kept this dream alive, show after show, and now we’re asking for one last surge of love before we take our break. Let’s light it up together.We’ll see you down the front.This has been the most beautiful ride. And it’s only been possible because of you. The fans, the bands, the crew, the venues, the scene. Camden Live isn’t just us – it’s all of us.So this isn’t goodbye. It’s just a pause. And we hope, with everything in us, that it won’t be for long.With love, heartbreak, and endless gratitude,Nila + the Camden Live crew
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April with CMDN live!
Spring is Here, and So is the Best Live Music in Camden – Discover the Spirit of Camden with us!Spring has finally arrived, and we couldn’t be more excited for the warmer nights, longer days, and, of course, the incredible music taking over the streets of Camden. There’s something magical about Camden in the spring – the air is buzzing with energy, and the vibe of live music fills every corner of this iconic neighbourhood. Whether it’s indie rock, alt-punk, or soul, Camden’s streets are about to come alive with an amazing lineup of gigs that you won’t want to miss.As we step into this new season, CMDN Live is thrilled to be hosting some of the hottest acts in the indie and rock scene, all set to bring the fire to Camden’s legendary venues. From high-energy performances to those perfect moments where you feel the music running through your veins, we’re ready to make this spring one for the books. So, grab your friends, put on your best spring vibes, and let’s make some memories!The Spirit of Camden: A Stage for Legends!Camden’s music scene is like no other. The rich history of this neighbourhood echoes through every street and every gig, from the smallest pub to the biggest stage. As the days get longer and the weather warms up, there’s nothing better than stepping out for a night of live music and discovering your new favourite band. It’s a place where rising stars meet legendary venues, and each show feels like it’s a part of Camden’s ongoing musical legacy.Camden isn’t just a place — it’s a cornerstone of rock ‘n’ roll history. This iconic London borough has been the stomping ground for legendary bands and artists who shaped the sound of generations. From The Clash and Blur to Amy Winehouse, Oasis, and Madness, Camden’s venues like The Roundhouse, The Electric Ballroom, and The Dublin Castle have hosted some of the most unforgettable gigs in music history. It’s where David Bowie experimented with his sound, The Sex Pistols stirred up a punk revolution, and Coldplay played early shows before taking over the world. Whether you’re wandering the graffiti-lined streets of Camden Market or catching a live gig in a sweaty, packed-out pub, you’re walking through the same musical legacy that made this area the beating heart of London’s rock scene. From gritty punk to indie anthems, Camden remains the place where music lovers gather, discover rising stars, and celebrate the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll — keeping the fire burning for future generations.What’s Coming Up This AprilThis month, we’re bringing you an exciting mix of gigs to keep you grooving all spring long. From Generation’s return to Camden Assembly to fresh faces lighting up The Dublin Castle, there’s something for everyone. The energy will be electric, the music will be unforgettable, and the Camden spirit will be alive and kicking!Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up this month:April 11th, 2025 – The Dublin Castle: CMDN Presents River Drive, Frankie Dobson, Bottomless Brunch, Jordan Langley, and The Barratts!We’re kicking off April with an absolute powerhouse lineup at one of Camden’s most iconic venues, The Dublin Castle. This show will feature some of the best rising indie rock talent, bringing you everything from anthemic choruses to gritty guitar riffs that will leave you hooked. The night will kick off with River Drive, an anthemic indie rock band whose blend of heartfelt melodies and raw guitar energy is perfect for fans of Catfish and the Bottlemen. Following them, Frankie Dobson will bring his soulful vocals and indie-rock grit, reminiscent of Inhaler and Fontaines D.C. If you’re after a bit of alt-rock fury, Bottomless Brunch are up next with a thunderous set that channels the heaviness of Royal Blood and the swagger of Queens of the Stone Age. Then, Jordan Langley will give you Britpop nostalgia with a modern indie twist, and rounding out the night will be The Barratts, delivering infectious indie anthems with a garage-rock edge.🎟️ Get your tickets hereApril 19th, 2024 – Camden Assembly: Generation Is Back!SHOW HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO JULY 11TH! If you got tickets for this they will still be valid on the new date – sorry for any inconveniences!After last year’s sold-out show, Generation is returning to Camden Assembly for another unforgettable night of pure rock ‘n’ roll mayhem. Their last gig was an absolute riot, with stage dives, mosh pits, and an energy that could only come from a band at the top of their game. This year, they’re bringing even more fire and adrenaline to the iconic Camden stage. With their raw rock grit and anthemic hooks, Generation creates an experience you feel deep in your bones. They’ll also be showcasing their latest single, EGO, fresh off a creative stint in LA, and believe us, it’s going to be a banger. If you love high-energy rock, this is a show you don’t want to miss.Support will come from Carpark, bringing their high-octane sound, and Evin, who will get you in the mood with their blend of gritty indie and emotive lyricism.🎟️ Get your tickets hereApril 25th, 2025 – The Dublin Castle: CMDN Presents Signature Vision, Ace Persona, Belle Dame, and Nick Shane!We’re wrapping up the month with another massive night at The Dublin Castle, this time bringing you a diverse lineup that has something for everyone. Opening the show will be Signature Vision, an indie band with punchy, working-class bangers that channel the grit of Oasis with the heart of Sam Fender. Ace Persona will follow with their moody, unpredictable sound, blending Radiohead’s atmospheric vibes with the groove of RHCP and the rawness of Jeff Buckley. Belle Dame will then bring their rich alt-indie sounds, weaving intricate rhythms and soaring melodies that pull you into their world. Closing the night will be Nick Shane, who brings a mod-punk attitude mixed with Bowie-esque charisma – raw, real, and unforgettable. The Dublin Castle has seen many legends rise, and who knows? These acts could be next.🎟️ Get your tickets hereJoin Us for the Best of Spring in Camden!We’re beyond excited for everything the spring season has in store. There’s no better time to soak in the sounds of Camden, as our streets and venues come alive with amazing talent. Whether you’re here for the intimate vibe of a small venue or the electric energy of Camden Assembly or The Dublin Castle, you’ll find something that speaks to your soul.So, get your tickets, grab your mates, and let’s make this spring in Camden unforgettable! The music’s waiting – are you ready to feel the magic?
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Black Doldrums at Camden Assembly
It’s been a full year since Black Doldrums last took over Camden with their otherworldly sound – and the memory still lingers like smoke in the air. The trio: Kevin Gibbard (vocals/guitar), Sophie Landers (drums), and Matthew Holt (bass) – didn’t just play a show that night. They unleashed a sonic ritual, blending goth post-punk, shoegaze, and raw energy into an unforgettable experience that left the crowd mesmerised. And the best part is – we have got some exciting news: BLACK DOLDRUMS ARE BACK IN CAMDEN ON JULY 31ST AT THE CAMDEN ASSEMBLY!Get Tickets HereDo you remember last year’s gig? From the very first note, it was clear this wasn’t going to be just another gig. Landers’ tribal, relentless drumming didn’t just set the tempo – it commanded the room. Each beat felt primal, like a heartbeat vibrating through the floor, completely hypnotic. Holt’s melodic, brooding basslines filled the air with a dark, pulse, while Gibbard’s reverb-drenched guitar spiraled above it all, crafting euphoric, atmospheric textures that felt both razor-sharp and dreamlike.Together, they build something rare: a sound that’s simultaneously feral and graceful – “a fierce combination of post-punk, reverb, drone and melody” (Uncut). It’s the kind of performance that pulls you under and refuses to let go. This was one of our favourite CMDN gigs of the year, for sure – absolutely epic! The setlist pulled heavily from their 2022 debut album Dead Awake, a release that first earned them critical acclaim from the likes of Rolling Stone, Uncut, and Sonic Seducer. But it was their newer material from 2024’s In Limerence – an album Louder Than War praised for its “lush yet glacial soundscapes, ramping up with bursts of energy before dispersing and cascading into an ethereal depth” – that hit with the most visceral power. The new tracks sounded even bigger and bolder live, as though they were always meant to be experienced in a dark, sweaty room with the amps cranked up to eleven. It wasn’t long before the crowd was completely locked in, swaying between moments of quiet introspection and thunderous, heady release. A fan shouted, “I say Black Doldrums are bloody brilliant!” And honestly, no one could argue with that.Black Doldrums have built a reputation on intensity. Their sound is a contemporary take on gothic post-punk – visceral, atmospheric, and utterly immersive. Gibbard’s introspective, often brooding lyrics are wrapped in euphoric, almost hallucinogenic guitar textures, framed by Landers’ overwhelmingly vicious, hook-laden drum work. The result? A modern-day reimagining of shoegaze and dark post-punk that nods to the past while blazing its own path. As Shindig! puts it – “youthful and ambitious contemporary rock ‘n’ roll.” If you’re a fan of Bauhaus, Joy Division and generally 80s Goth Post-Punk this is the band you need to see live. Black Doldrums tap into that same haunting, primal energy – the kind that makes the room feel like it’s shifting dimensions around you.Even those who walked in without knowing the band left transformed. You could see it in their faces – a mix of awe and adrenaline. This wasn’t just a gig. It was a sonic experience that hit the body and soul in equal measure. Black Doldrums didn’t just play – they performed, in the truest sense of the word, blurring the line between band and atmosphere. The best part? They’ll be back with us very soon – and trust us, if you missed this one, you really won’t want to make that mistake again. SEE YOU ON JULY 31ST AT THE CAMDEN ASSEMBLY!Get Tickets Here🎧 “A mix of Gothic-rock and shoegaze sounds to die for” — Rolling Stone🎧 “A fierce combination of post-punk, reverb, drone and melody” — Uncut🎧 “Youthful and ambitious contemporary rock ‘n’ roll” — Shindig!🎧 “Awe-inspiring… Black Doldrums create transient and euphoric dark post-punk.” — Louder Than War All Images by Max Nicoll at Camden Assembly, March 2024
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13/03/25 Dublin Castle Gig Review
Last night was nothing short of legendary – Camden’s alt-rock scene exploded at The Dublin Castle!We had everything from punk rock and ska to grunge, heavy rock, and shoegaze doom hardcore – and the crowd felt it all. People were dancing, jumping, and throwing themselves into the raw, unfiltered energy of live music. Who says Thursdays can’t go hard? At CMDN live we know how to give you the most epic nights of live music! Head over to our Instagram @cmdnlive and check our Story Highlights to relive the night!4FOXSAKE kicked things off with a bang – and let’s be honest, we knew they would. One of our CMDN favourites, they brought their signature hard rock back to Camden, and this time they went even harder. Massive riffs, relentless energy, and anthemic hooks filled the room – and yes, the guitarist shredded behind his back like a total rock ‘n’ roll maniac. Their sound is riff-heavy, raw, and unapologetically loud – the kind of music that grabs you and demands your attention. Their debut album Light the Way proved they mean business, but their live shows take things to an even more explosive level. This is a band that doesn’t just play – they detonate.Next up, Next To Nada brought their unique brand of fuzz-punk chaos. Another CMDN favourite, they never fail to bring both killer energy and killer grooves. What made it even better? The singing bounced between the two guitarists and bassist, keeping the crowd hooked on every switch-up. Their raw, no-nonsense attitude and thick, gritty sound kept the pit moving – this band knows how to work a crowd! Their sound is an untamed fusion of punk, grunge and heavy rock – bursting with fuzzy riffs and unfiltered attitude that hits like a runaway freight train!Then Rhino-Tranq stormed the stage – and the place absolutely erupted! Their punk-meets-grunge sound hit hard, but it was their insane energy that really blew the roof off. The audience went mental, feeding off the band’s relentless pace and wild stage presence. And that ska-that-wasn’t-ska track? Somehow, it was actually pretty damn good ska — even the most skeptical rockers couldn’t help but move to it. Making their CMDN Live debut, Rhino-Tranq proved they belong right at home in Camden’s rock scene. Their sound is a furious, chaotic collision of punk and grunge – unpredictable, exhilarating, and impossible to stand still to. Even their ska, that ‘isn’t real ska’ was damn good ska. If last night was any sign, they’ve made their mark – and we’re betting this won’t be the last time they set the place on fire!Finally, Terminals closed the night with an atmospheric, heavy shoegaze-laden punch to the senses. Their nu-gaze sound fused haunting melodies with heavy, sludgy/doomy riffs – a mix that felt like Deftones, Nothing, Narrow Head and Muse had a jam session in the depths of Camden. The room went from swaying to headbanging as the mood shifted – and you just knew something massive was coming every time the guitarist/singer pulled that ‘filthy, nasty riff incoming’ face that we all in the crowd instantly copied in approval. Also making their CMDN Live debut, Terminals brought something truly unique to the night – ethereal soundscapes that morphed into colossal, doom-drenched walls of sound. The band channels that raw emotional weight you feel in shoegaze, but laces it with crushing heaviness and atmospheric depth – their set was hypnotic, haunting and heavy.The vibe was electric, the music was untamed, and the spirit of Camden was alive and kicking. If you missed it – well, let’s just say you missed an epic night of alt rock and your new favourite bands. The crowd was wild, people were dancing, jumping, and screaming along – the energy was electric, the kind of untamed chaos only live rock in Camden can bring. Every band threw down like it was their last show on Earth, and Camden answered back with deafening cheers and unrelenting movement. The floor was shaking, the riffs were relentless, and the spirit of rock burned bright – proving once again why Camden is the heart of the UK’s live music scene – we do keep telling you! If you missed it… we’re really sorry but hey, don’t worry – we at CMDN Live aren’t slowing down. Our next gig is locked and loaded, and trust us: you do not want to be the one hearing about it after it’s over. Be there, or regret it forever!🎫 Get your tickets for our next show now!🗓️ Subscribe to our CMDN calendar so you never miss another epic night of live music!Add to your Google CalendarAdd to your iOS CalendarThis is the spirit of Camden. Live Music you NEED to hear. This is CMDN Live.Don’t make that mistake again. Our next CMDN Live gig is coming up fast – and trust us, you’ll want to be there.
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Becoming Led Zeppelin in Camden
Led Zeppelin in Camden: The Birth of Rock’s Greatest LegendsCamden. The land of sticky floors, sweaty gigs, and rock ‘n’ roll history. It’s where legends are made, and let’s be honest – if you haven’t played Camden, have you really made it? Back in the late ‘60s, one band stormed through the borough and changed the face of music forever. That band? None other than Led bloody Zeppelin.If you’ve been following our blog (and if not, what are you doing?), you’ll know we love digging into Camden’s legendary gigs – from David Bowie’s Roundhouse takeover in 1970 to Jimmy Page’s stomping grounds in the borough. But today, we’re talking about a gig that arguably helped birth the greatest band of all time (yeah, I said it – fight me in the comments).Camden, 1968: A Band is BornPicture it: November 9, 1968. The Roundhouse. A young, unrelenting four-piece takes the stage, armed with filthy guitar riffs, wailing vocals, and drum fills that sound like Thor himself is having a tantrum. This was one of Led Zeppelin’s first-ever UK gigs, and let me tell you – it wasn’t just another show. It was a moment.This wasn’t the polished, larger-than-life Zeppelin of Stairway to Heaven and Kashmir. This was raw, wild, blues-drenched fury. The audience wasn’t just watching a band – they were witnessing Rock’n’Roll history. People who were there that night later said it felt like the beginning of something unstoppable. And they were right. On November 9, 1968, Led Zeppelin played their first official London show at The Roundhouse, marking a pivotal moment in their history. This performance came after the band returned from their inaugural Scandinavian tour, having shed their previous name, The New Yardbirds. They had now emerged as one of the heaviest rock bands in the world.The setlist was stacked with classics: Train Kept a Rollin’, I Can’t Quit You Baby, Dazed & Confused, and Communication Breakdown – all played with raw energy that would soon define Led Zeppelin’s signature sound.Jimmy Page himself recalled that early London gig, saying, “We only played a couple of dates in London – The Roundhouse and Marquee. The Marquee was fantastic – just great. We were totally knocked out when we came out of there.”And if you needed proof that rock royalty was already taking notice, blues legend John Lee Hooker was lurking backstage that night, watching history unfold. At one point, guitarist Rafael de Swarte from the support band Tyres recalled a bizarre moment – Page’s guitar went silent mid-song. Turns out, Hooker had somehow managed to tangle his foot in the lead. An accident? A subtle way of saying, “You kids are alright”? We may never know, but Zeppelin’s Camden legacy was already cemented.Oh, and fun facts? This was also the first time Jimmy Page pulled out the violin bow on guitar trick with Led Zep,(the very first time was with The Yardbirds), creating hauntingly atmospheric sounds that would become a hallmark of Zeppelin’s live shows. The stuff of legend! And talking about fun facts – Interestingly, Robert Plant spent his wedding day on the morning of the gig, famously remarking that he spent his honeymoon at The Roundhouse. The Dublin Castle Incident: Robert Plant’s Close CallNow, Camden isn’t just about the gigs – it’s about the chaos in between them, too. And when you throw Led Zeppelin into the mix, you just know there are some stories worth telling. Enter: The Dublin Castle Incident.Camden’s legendary pubs have seen their fair share of rock history, and The Dublin Castle is no exception. In one of the most memorable stories from this iconic venue, Robert Plant once turned up to watch a Led Zeppelin tribute band. The story, as recounted by Tony, a long-time regular at The Dublin Castle, is nothing short of surreal.“Robert Plant turned up to see a Led Zeppelin tribute band, and the guy on the door didn’t know he was Robert Plant, even though there was a guy on stage looking identical, singing—‘cos you’d think everyone would know Led Zeppelin, right? But this one guy doing work for us briefly didn’t recognise him and he charged him! And Robert Plant paid! But then he walked in, and he couldn’t handle watching it—he ran out. I think it was too realistic,” Tony says, laughing.Al, another regular and the pub’s unofficial guide, chimes in, “’Cos Robert Plant’s such a quiet man.” Tony agrees, adding, “Yeah, he is. He’s a nice guy. He used to come in here a lot, haven’t seen him for a while.”This anecdote perfectly captures the humble and unassuming nature of Robert Plant, a rock legend who can still be found in the heart of Camden, blending in with the crowd, yet forever connected to the legacy of Led Zeppelin. Make sure to come to our gigs at Dublin Castle, who knows who you might meet 😉 And if you are playing some of our gigs, no pressure mate – but make sure to smash the covers, if you play any, just in case the original musicians decide to turn up.Led Zeppelin’s “Reunion” in a Camden ChippyOver the years, rumours of a Led Zeppelin reunion have sparked more debates than we can count. But in 2018, Robert Plant finally set the record straight. When asked if the legendary band would ever reunite for another tour, Plant’s response was pure Camden gold: “Led Zeppelin could only reunite in a Camden chip shop.”You can picture it, can’t you? Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and Plant, squeezed into the back of a greasy chippy, debating whether to go for mushy peas or curry sauce while some unsuspecting teenager asks them if they’re in a band.Of course, Plant’s comment was a cheeky way of saying don’t hold your breath, but it’s the kind of response that reminds us why we love him. Even after all these years, he’s still got that mischievous, no-nonsense attitude that made Zeppelin so damn cool in the first place.Another iconic Zeppelin moment took place just outside The World’s End, right at the little island by Camden Town Station. Here, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page reunited for an interview promoting their new project No Quarter—their ambitious reimagining of Led Zeppelin classics, fused with Celtic, Gaelic, and Middle Eastern influences. The album, which followed their MTV Unplugged session, was the first time Page and Plant had properly worked together since Zeppelin’s breakup.Of course, in typical rock ‘n’ roll fashion, their old bandmate John Paul Jones found out about the project from the press rather than from them. Ouch. No wonder Zeppelin reunions always feel like forbidden magic – too powerful to happen often, and when they do, they might just shake the earth… Anyways, here’s the promotional interview – enjoy seeing Rob and Jimmy in the very crossing that all of us have crossed several times when being in Camden, kinda cool to see them hanging around there, right? Becoming Led Zeppelin: A Documentary Worthy of the GodsNow, if you really want to feel what those early days were like, you need to watch Becoming Led Zeppelin. This documentary doesn’t do the usual rock-doc thing where they air out all the drama. Nope – this is pure celebration. A deep dive into how four absolute legends came together and rewrote the rulebook. (Spoiler alert ahead – cover your eyes if you wanna go in fresh!)It features never-before-heard interviews – including actual audio of John Bonham speaking. Yeah, you read that right. No one’s ever heard these before. I got goosebumps all over my body hearing his voice and how he speaks about Led Zep… oof.Another of my favourite moments? Watching the lads light up like kids on Christmas morning when talking about their time in Zeppelin. These guys didn’t just make music; they lived it. And even though Zeppelin was only around for 12 years (I know, criminally short), they still managed to become the most influential rock band of all time. Best band ever, some might say. (I say.) The Legacy Lives OnAlright, let’s get real. Camden and Led Zeppelin are cut from the same cloth – gritty, electrifying, and absolutely timeless. It’s been over 50 years since that Roundhouse gig, but the echoes of those nights still linger in every packed-out rock show, every young band setting foot on a Camden stage, and every punter who stumbles out of a gig with their ears still ringing.We weren’t there in 1968 (trust me, I wish I was), but every time we throw a gig in Camden, we’re keeping that spirit alive. That’s the power of live music. That’s the spirit of Camden. And that’s why we do what we do.Sources:Jimmy Page – The Wizard of Rock’n’Roll and Led Zeppelin in Camden Led Zeppelin Concert & Tour History | Concert Archives Becoming Led Zeppelin (2025) | Documentary, Music ‘Led Zeppelin could only reunite in a Camden chip shop’, lead singer Robert Plant says Dublin Castle: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Stories You Need to Know The Roundhouse. “History.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.roundhouse.org.uk/about/history. Led Zeppelin Official. “Led Zeppelin Timeline.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.ledzeppelin.com/. Camden History Society. “Camden and the Birth of Rock and Roll.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.camdenhistorysociety.org.uk/. BraveWords. “Robert Plant on Led Zeppelin Reuniting for 50th Anniversary Performance: ‘Only in a Chip Shop in Camden Town!’” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://bravewords.com/news/robert-plant-on-led-zeppelin-reuniting-for-50th-anniversary-performance-only-in-a-chip-shop-in-camden-town-i-think-thats-about-as-close-as-we-will-get-to-it. The Independent. “Led Zeppelin Could Only Reunite in a Camden Chip Shop, Lead Singer Robert Plant Says.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/led-zeppelin-reunion-camden-chip-shop-robert-plant-performance-a8436121.html. Led Zeppelin Official. “Roundhouse, November 9, 1968.” Accessed August 21, 2024. https://www.ledzeppelin.com/show/roundhouse-november-9-1968. Loudersound. “The Roundhouse London.” Accessed August 21 LZ078 : Robert Plant – Iconic Images Visit Creator: Terry O’Neill | Credit: Terry O’Neill / Iconic ImagesCopyright: © Iconic Images Limited Led Zeppelin, La Totale”: plongée dans l’alchimie d’un géant du rock Where is Robert Plant’s Ex-Wife, Maureen Wilson, Today? Led Zeppelin: Pictures show first concert, in 1968 – BBC News ROBERT PLANT AND JIMMY PAGE INTERVIEWED (1994)
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Dublin Castle March 13th: Terminals, 4FOXSAKE, Next To Nada & Rhino-Tranq
CMDN Live Presents: Terminals, 4FOXSAKE, Next To Nada & Rhino-Tranq at The Dublin Castle – March 13th, 2025!Live music pulses through the veins of Camden, and nowhere does it hit harder than at The Dublin Castle. A venue with a legacy as deep as rock ‘n’ roll itself, it has been the proving ground for legends like Madness, Blur, and Amy Winehouse. Now, CMDN Live is bringing the next wave of boundary-pushing artists to its iconic stage. On March 13th, 2025, prepare for an explosive night featuring Terminals, 4FOXSAKE, Next To Nada, and Rhino-Tranq—four bands that are set to shake the very foundations of this historic venue.Get TicketsTerminals – Alternative Nu-Gaze BrillianceHailing from Birmingham, Terminals have been carving their name into the UK alternative scene since their formation in late 2022. The trio—James Whitehouse (vocals & guitar), James Cohu (bass), and Joe Cooper (drums)—dropped their debut EP Baptise and have been turning heads ever since. Drawing from the dreamy depth of Deftones, the haunting textures of Radiohead, and the crushing weight of Loathe, Terminals craft immersive soundscapes with emotional, raw storytelling at their core. If you like your alternative rock laced with ambient textures and unfiltered feeling, this is a band you don’t want to miss. Rhino-Tranq – Next-Wave Punk-Grunge FuryFrom Kent comes Rhino-Tranq, a band whose sound defies easy categorization—punk, indie, grunge, and something entirely fresh. With Oskar Payne commanding the stage on vocals and guitar, Sam Jones injecting unrelenting energy on bass, Jack Springett tearing through riffs on lead guitar, and Lola Costello proving that drummers can be both technical and powerhouse performers, Rhino-Tranq deliver a live set that hits like a wrecking ball. High energy, raw emotion, and a crowd that won’t stop moving—expect nothing less from this rising force in the UK alt scene. 4FOXSAKE – London’s Hard Rock PowerhouseIf you like your rock loud, fast, and unrelenting, 4FOXSAKE have you covered. This multinational London-based hard rock outfit stormed onto the scene with their debut album Light the Way, and they haven’t let up since. Their sound fuses heavy riffs with high-energy stage presence, making them a must-see for anyone craving a headbanging, adrenaline-fueled night. Next To Nada – Fuzz-Punk ChaosLondon’s own Next To Nada are here to deliver a wall of distortion, attitude, and sheer sonic chaos. Blending thick grooves, tongue-in-cheek lyricism, and unfiltered punk aggression, they bring a sound that feels like a collision between Lambrini Girls and PIGSx7. If you want pure, unfiltered punk energy with a touch of sassy, riff-driven madness, Next To Nada are the band to watch. The Dublin Castle – Camden’s Legendary Rock SanctuaryA night at The Dublin Castle isn’t just a gig—it’s a rite of passage. From hosting raw, undiscovered talent to launching future icons, this venue embodies the spirit of Camden’s rock ‘n’ roll history. CMDN Live is proud to continue this tradition, keeping live music at the heart of London’s most iconic music borough.So, whether you’re here for the shoegaze-drenched intensity of Terminals, the punk-grunge chaos of Rhino-Tranq, the hard-hitting rock of 4FOXSAKE, or the fuzzed-out energy of Next To Nada, this is a lineup that guarantees one thing—absolute carnage.Get your tickets now. This is Camden. This is live music. This is CMDN.March 13th, 2025 – The Dublin Castle. Be there!Get Tickets
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Terry Reid in Camden
“There are only three things happening in England. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Terry Reid.” Aretha Franklin, 1968If you’re a fan of live music, mark your calendars for September 24th! Terry Reid, the legendary singer-songwriter, is set to take the stage at Camden’s iconic Jazz Café. This isn’t just any gig; it’s one of our carefully curated picks that you absolutely cannot miss!Why You Should Be ThereAt Camden Live, our mission is to help you discover incredible talent in our vibrant music scene. As Aretha Franklin once said in 1968, “There are only three things happening in England. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Terry Reid.” This speaks volumes about Reid’s place in music history. Widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists this country has ever produced, his concerts are cherished memories for any rock ’n’ roll fan. A Remarkable CareerTerry Reid’s career is nothing short of remarkable. Since first touring with The Rolling Stones at just 15, he has shared the stage with legends like Cream, Fleetwood Mac, and even famously turned down frontman roles with Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. Instead, he chose to carve his own path, producing several solo albums of outstanding quality.With a resurgence of interest in his music thanks to recent reissues, now is the perfect time to experience his sound live. Albums from the 70s, such as River and Seed of Memory, showcase the progressive funky folk blues style that defines him.What to ExpectTerry Reid’s performances are renowned for their energy and authenticity. Expect to be captivated by his powerful vocals and masterful guitar work as he takes you on a journey through his storied career. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this is an opportunity to witness a true legend in an intimate setting. The Venue: Jazz CafeThe Jazz Café is the perfect spot for this extraordinary event. Nestled in the heart of Camden, this venue boasts a rich history of hosting incredible artists, making it a beloved hotspot for music lovers. With its cozy atmosphere and fantastic acoustics, you’ll feel every note reverberate through the room. It’s a venue that adds an extra layer of magic to live performances.Act Fast: Tickets Are Selling Out!We can’t stress this enough: if you’re interested in experiencing Terry Reid live, don’t wait! Tickets are flying off the shelves, and this gig is poised to sell out. Grab your friends, secure your tickets, and be part of a night that promises unforgettable moments and incredible music.Join Us in Discovering Live MusicAt Camden Live, we’re passionate about uncovering the best live music experiences for you. This Terry Reid concert is a shining example of the kind of talent we want to highlight, a legend returning to Camden! We believe that every gig is an opportunity to create memories and connect with the music that moves us, especially in this very special part of town.So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious to explore, we encourage you to join us at the Jazz Café on September 24th. Let’s celebrate the power of live music together!Get Your Tickets Now!Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity. Check out the Jazz Café website for tickets and more information. We can’t wait to see you there, enjoying an unforgettable night of music with Terry Reid!Get tickets hereStay tuned for more recommended gigs from Camden Live, where every show is a chance to discover the music you need to hear!
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GIG PICKS FOR YOU: October 15th-30th
What’s on in Camden this week?! OUR CMDN PICKS FOR YOU Discover the best live music in Camden this week, between 15th and 30th of October 🙂 SUNDAY 15th RACHEL CROFT / at CAMDEN ASSEMBLY Rachel Croft hits London’s Camden Assembly for the first time for an unmissable show with her full band. Blending the cinematic and soulful, her music as been synced on the BBC and Netflix, and featured major outlets including Atwood magazine and CMT. Genre-bending artist Rachel Croft has proven that you don’t need a label giant backing your craft in today’s climate to make waves in the music industry — CMT.COM An emotive and uncompromising alternative artist … Unapologetic and at the top of her game — Atwood Magazine The dictionary definition of “Tempest” … An artist whose very voice makes your soul vibrate at a higher intensity — Cloudwatcher Uno Get tickets here MONDAY 16th your gig? Let us know! TUESDAY 17th your gig? Let us know! WEDNESDAY 18th your gig? Let us know! THURSDAY 19th LUKE CLERKIN / at CAMDEN CHAPEL Luke Clerkin is a two time Sports and Cultural Council Song-Writing competition winning singer-songwriter. His music has gained international airplay and support, whilst also topping the Irish Singer Songwriter Charts on multiple occasions. Luke is known mostly for playing over 250 gigs in 2015, as a way of honing his craft. Since then he has headlined famous Dublin venues such as Whelan’s, The Workman’s Club, and The Button Factory. His music has brought him all over the world, with multiple tours of Germany, as well as festival slots in America, The UK, and Ireland. Luke’s ‘Live From The Library’ EP was released on February 24th. This release marked the beginning of a new journey for Luke’s music, showing his songs in their purest form, with vulnerabilities and imperfections included. The EP was launched with a sold out show in The Workman’s Club in Dublin on the night of the release. Fresh off an Irish tour and a date in West Hampstead Arts Club, Luke is now in the middle of recording his debut album, Orpheus, which will be released in 2024. Get tickets here THE PRETENDERS / AT ELECTRIC BALLROOM Led by charismatic American-born expat Chrissie Hynde, the Pretenders rose out of London’s late-’70s punk/new wave scene, effectively bridging the gap between that world and the Top 40 with a series of lean, spiky singles that were also melodic and immediately accessible. Released in 1980, their first album topped the U.K. charts and is widely considered one of the greatest debuts of all time. Their initial run yielded a clutch of smartly-written, successful singles like “Brass in Pocket,” “Back on the Chain Gang,” and “Middle of the Road.” As the ’80s wore on, the death of two original members and a succession of replacements essentially turned the Pretenders into Hynde‘s project, though her semi-autobiographical songwriting and distinctive vocal phrasing continued to define their sound. 1984’s Learning to Crawl and its 1986 successor, Get Close, went gold on both sides of the Atlantic and 1994’s Last of the Independents yielded a perennial rock ballad in “I’ll Stand by You.” In the 21st century, the Pretenders’ output slowed, though records like 2008’s Break Up the Concrete and 2016’s Alone continued to perform well on the U.K. charts and Hynde‘s songwriting never lost its bite and vitality. Those attributes were in full effect on their 12th album, 2023’s Relentless. Read more here Get Tickets here FRIDAY 20th SODI COOKEY / at CAMDEN CLUB With his Port Harcourt-forged soul & jazz and incredible stage presence and vocals, Sodi Cookey is the most complete performer to come out of Nigeria. Sodi’s powerful and lyrical voice infuses soul, jazz and blues harmonies into contemporary rhythms. His diverse audiences are spell-bound by his incredible range and charismatic performances. As a natural counter-tenor, he combines a unique blend of velvet vocals, rich-raw melodies and provocative story-telling. Much of his childhood growing up in the creative melting pot of Nigeria and influenced by his musical parents, Sodi was a prodigy – composing and performing from age six. In his twenties, he returned to London and began collaborating with renowned musicians and producers including Grammy award-winning, Sonny Johns and David Mrakpor. Sodi has also performed at London’s annual Jazz Festival and headlined at Vienna’s prestigious ORF RadioKulture Haus. Sodi’s album, A&G – Love, Life & Protest , pulls inspiration from his history and experiences – evoking passion, optimism and determination. It is an eclectic mix of sounds, rhythms and unique sequencing – all drawn from his various musical influences and Nigerian heritage. Get tickets here SATURDAY 21st your gig? Let us know! SUNDAY 22nd SEVEN RED LIONS, CLAY SOLDIERS, DAYLIGHT ROBBERY, DIRTY MITTS at Dublin Castle Our next CMDN gig of the month! Don’t miss it 🙂 DIRTY MITTS –You can scrub and scrub, but the Dirt just won’t come off!Dirty Mitts, a four-piece band made up of Tommy (singer), Matt (bass player), Mo (both guitarists), and Mateusz (drums), is an eclectic group of musicians from the UK, Poland, and Egypt who came together in 2022, bonded by a shared passion for classic, loud Rock’n’roll. Their sound is a combination of bluesy, vintage, and energetic tunes that are sure to have listeners on their feet.With thumping energy, crashing drums, and raucous vocals, Dirty Mitts leave no stone unturned in their decisively powerful and high-octane output. The band has decades of experience between them from being signed to touring in Africa, with fate leading them together to form the greatest rock band you just don’t know yet! SEVEN RED LIONS – Seven Red Lions is an indie rock band based in London. Composed of lead singer and guitarist David Lion from Mexico and singer and bass player Sara Priegue from Portugal. After they met in London in 2014, they decided to pursue their dreams, and in 2015 they launched their first EP; since then, the band has been actively launching new material and playing around the world. The diverse nationalities that makeup Seven Red Lions can be felt in the tone of their music. “This band have an amazing indie rock sound that will leave you in awe with awesome guitar solos, speedy drums and impressive harmonies!” CLAY SOLDIERS -Formed in London, 2020; Clay Soldiers are a rock band, combining rock, grunge Doom and stoner-rock elements along with melodic guitars and heavy rocking grooves.It is through dark chapters and the desperation of life’s struggles that have shaped the balance of their music, with the aim of reaching out to others, in reflection of of own experiences and to help build communities through music.Their most notable achievements to date are achieving the Pipebomb Radio NYC ‘Artist of the Month’ in April 2021, as well as reaching the top four of the ‘Isaac Banks Top Ten Singles’ on Banks Radio Australia with their single ‘Ghost (Piano Edit)’. To date, ‘Ghost’ has also received over 5000 streams in more than 38 different countries worldwide.However, it is their latest highly acclaimed single, ‘Drive It Home’ which over just four months received over 4000 streams continues to be the most popular track in over 79 countries worldwide. Clay Soldiers have enjoyed a solid run of shows in London and the South, where their EP Release Show at The Fighting Cocks, Kingston and their support show in Southampton were both sell-out occasions. They recently performed at The Autumn Festival in London as well as becoming involved in the Music For Ukraine Fest 2022, and will be appearing at the renowned Heaven & Hell Fest 2023, Rotherham. DAYLIGHT ROBBERY – Hailing from in and around Birmingham, England – DAYLIGHT ROBBERY they have risen quickly to produce three hugely acclaimed albums ‘Cross Your Heart…and Hope to Die’, ‘Falling Back to Earth’ & 2020’s ‘The Enemy Within’. The stella reviews of their debut album meant that they suddenly found themselves touring the UK with Uriah Heep, appearing with It-Bites and playing the main stage of the inaugural HRH/AOR at Magna Park, Sheffield (being acknowledged as the band of the day). Daylight Robbery’s second album ‘Falling Back to Earth’ went on to receive accolades from all over the world resulting in two album of the year awards in the printed rock press – Powerplay Magazine, UK & Rock Hard Magazine, Germany. This enabled the band to appear at Knebworth alongside Metallica, Dream Theater and Alice in Chains and playing arenas with Whitesnake, Def Leppard, Rainbow and Black Sabbath. They have appeared at numerous Hard Rock Hell events as well as headlining smaller festivals and undertaking their own shows. Daylight Robbery’s greatly anticipated 3rd album ‘THE ENEMY WITHIN’ was released during the summer of 2020 again to fantastic reviews with the first three singles being the incredible ‘DIGITAL PREACHER’, the 80’s sounding classic ‘HOUSE OF PAIN’ and the anthemic ‘WAITING FOR TOMORROW’. The band are now focused on a more classic rock approach and their new single ‘Edwards No.8’ is a true classic rock anthem which can be heard on radio stations around the world! The Hackenbackers / DUBLIN CASTLE / 14.30 Before joining our gig on Sunday, go check out: The Hackenbackers!A west London based rock’n’roll band, whose set list features all self-penned songs, deeply rooted in their early musical influences from the 70’s and 80’s,but with a contemporary edge. The tunes deliver strong driving beats and hooky choruses which, once heard, you can’t get out of your head. Individually, they’ve had past successes with noted British acts, played at major UK venues and clubs in the US, as well as more recent album releases. Reviews of early performances have been glowing! Get tickets here Check them out on Insta: @thehackenbackers.co.uk MONDAY 23rd your gig? Let us know! TUESDAY 24th your gig? Let us know! WEDNESDAY 25th GLENN HUGHES / at ELECTRIC BALLROOM GLENN HUGHES PERFORMS CLASSIC DEEP PURPLE LIVE /Glenn Hughes, the former bassist, and singer of Deep Purple, known to millions as the ‘Voice of Rock’, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, is pleased to announce, ‘Glenn Hughes Performs Classic Deep Purple Live – Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the album BURN’. Glenn will perform tracks from Deep Purple’s legendary rock album “BURN” and along with Deep Purple MKIII and MKIV songs. Glenn’s band will feature Soren Andersen (guitar), Ash Sheehan (drums) and Bob Fridzema (keyboards). Special guest on all UK shows is Canadian rock and roll band, The Damn Truth Get Tickets £35 here THURSDAY 26th your gig? Let us know! FRIDAY 27th your gig? Let us know! SATURDAY 28th CMDN GIG AT CAMDEN CLUB Our last CMDN gig of the month! Don’t miss it 🙂 TBC SUNDAY 29th ELIADES OCHOA / at KOKO Latin, Folk / imbibe the original Buena Vista Social Club as band’s original frontman plays live and saves you the trip to Havana. Salsa on over. The rugged features, the signature hat, the cowboy boots and the iconic ‘man in black’ image… The songs from the school of life imbued with the sort of hard-earned, country-tinged wisdom that can’t be bought. Cuban star Eliades Ochoa returns with a brand new album ‘Guajiro’, due for release in May 2023. Ochoa is one of the original members of Buena Vista Social Club, famously lending his lead vocals to the timeless hit ‘Chan Chan’, which still streams millions of times a year and is loved by fans all over the world. The album, which features a majority of compositions written by Ochoa, also features guest artists, and cements Ochoa’s status as a legendary Cuban performer and storyteller. Get Tickets £40.62 Resale Ticket here MONDAY 30th WE THREE AT KOKO Portland’s We Three has an innate gift for packaging highly relatable songs about mental health, love, and insecurity inside infectious melodies. The trio’s unique approach to songwriting gave their music a worldwide audience which has led to sold-out headline shows around the globe. Their new album “Love Me” is followed by the “Love Me” tour this fall. The album features a number of “not totally happy” love songs including the super-catchy single “She’s Got That” paired with a sizzling music video filmed at the Darcelle XV Nightclub. Get tickets here Let us know where you go or if there are other events we have missed to add here 🙂 We started Camden Live to get more people into the incredible music scene here: one of the best in the world with so much going on that it’s hard to keep up. We want to be your guide, let us be your companion, as you explore and discover what is going on! Please share the live music love ♡ Follow us on socials @cmdnlive, support artists and even better share with other music lovers. It makes a big difference and we send our thanks in advance. Point is, we’re out here making something in Camden for Camden. For the bands from around here, and the ones who are arriving from god-knows-where stinking of van fumes. And obviously, for everyone who likes keeping them on the road. Rock on!
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Meet Dirty Mitts
Don’t miss our next gig at Dublin Castle on October 22nd for some ROCK’N’ROLL with the amazing: SEVEN RED LIONS, CLAY SOLDIERS, DAYLIGHT ROBBERY, DIRTY MITTS! >>> GET TICKETS HERE DIRTY MITTS You can scrub and scrub, but the Dirt just won’t come off!Dirty Mitts, a four-piece band made up of Tommy (singer), Matt (bass player), Mo (both guitarists), and Mateusz (drums), is an eclectic group of musicians from the UK, Poland, and Egypt who came together in 2022, bonded by a shared passion for classic, loud Rock’n’roll. Their sound is a combination of bluesy, vintage, and energetic tunes that are sure to have listeners on their feet.With thumping energy, crashing drums, and raucous vocals, Dirty Mitts leave no stone unturned in their decisively powerful and high-octane output. The band has decades of experience between them from being signed to touring in Africa, with fate leading them together to form the greatest rock band you just don’t know yet! Check out their socials here: Instagram – Spotify – Youtube DIRTY MITTS DURING OUR INTERVIEW: How did you get into music? – We were drawn to music from a young age. Some of us were captivated by the performance elements of the greats like Freddie Mercury, Mick Jagger, and James Brown. Music offered a freedom of expression we couldn’t find elsewhere. What bands inspired your style and how do you differ from your roots? – We’re influenced by a mix from The Rolling Stones to Royal Blood, loving the 70’s style with a hard edge. Our sound is a blend of classic, bluesy, vintage, and energetic vibes. While rooted in classic rock, we strive to introduce a modern twist, connecting a classic sound with a new audience. What would you say thrills your soul? – The thrill of playing live music, connecting with our fans, and crafting tunes that resonate with both classic vibes and contemporary nuances. If you were to get stuck on a lonely Island, which would be the 3 albums you’ll take with you? – We’d choose ‘A Night at the Opera’ by Queen, ‘High Voltage’ by AC/DC, and ‘Appetite for Destruction’ by Guns n’ Roses. Beatles Vs Stones? – While we deeply admire both, our passion leans more towards the hard edge of the 70s style, so we’d gravitate more towards The Stones. Do you believe in aliens? – If they can jam to some good rock’n’roll, why not? Don’t miss our next gig at Dublin Castle on October 22nd for some ROCK’N’ROLL with DIRTY MITTS >>> GET TICKETS HERE
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Meet Seven Red Lions
Don’t miss our next gig at Dublin Castle on October 22nd for some ROCK’N’ROLL with the amazing: SEVEN RED LIONS, CLAY SOLDIERS, DAYLIGHT ROBBERY, DIRTY MITTS! >>> GET TICKETS HERE SEVEN RED LIONS Seven Red Lions is an indie rock band based in London. Composed of lead singer and guitarist David Lion from Mexico and singer and bass player Sara Priegue from Portugal. After they met in London in 2014, they decided to pursue their dreams, and in 2015 they launched their first EP; since then, the band has been actively launching new material and playing around the world. The diverse nationalities that makeup Seven Red Lions can be felt in the tone of their music. “This band have an amazing indie rock sound that will leave you in awe with awesome guitar solos, speedy drums and impressive harmonies!” Check out their socials here: Instagram – Spotify – Youtube SEVEN RED LIONS DURING OUR INTERVIEW: How did you get into music? Music has been present in our lives since a very early age; David started playing drums when he was 15 in Mexico; later, he started to learn guitar and other instruments. Sara has been singing since she was a child, but later, she realized that she needed to learn an instrument and started with bass in 2017. After moving to London, David started the Seven Red Lions project in 2014, and later, Sara joined the band as a vocalist, jumping to the bass in the following years. What bands inspired your style and how do you differ from your roots? We listen to a lot of different bands that inspired us to create music; here are some of our favourite ones: The Cure, Nirvana, Radiohead, Soda Stereo, Sonic Youth, Khruangbin, The Beatles, Wolf Alice, Sick Joy and many more. We all have been playing various styles, such as Latin, Jazz, Funk etc., which brings a diverse taste to our sound. What would you say thrills your soul? We are big animal lovers; we know how wise they are and how much they can teach us. Unfortunately, human ignorance has not allowed us to understand their tremendous value. But we believe we are heading in that direction. If you were to get stuck on a lonely Island, which would be the 3 albums you’ll take with you? Kiss Kiss Kiss by The Cure; Never Mind by Nirvana; Sg Peppers’ Lonely Heart Club Band by Beatles; Blue Weekend by Wolf Alice; Any album from Khruangbin would be good. Beatles Vs Stones? No offence to Stones fans, but The Betales is our preference, we loved their music, and their art has inspired us a lot. Do you believe in aliens? Of course, we do believe in Aliens, we’re not alone, and we are definitely not the only species in this galaxy. So keep your eyes open 🙂 Don’t miss our next gig at Dublin Castle on October 22nd for some INDIE ROCK with SEVEN RED LIONS >>> GET TICKETS HERE
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Camden live next concert! 24th November Camden Club
Don’t miss our next and last gig of this month!NOVEMBER 24th at Camden Clubpresenting Camden’s finest INDIE & ROCK with: TIZANE, A VOID, ARCHY & THE ASTRONAUTS, ACE PERSONAGet Tickets hereTizane – ‘Tizane’, a band from South East London, United Kingdom and recently released their latest album, ‘Forever Is Nothing.’ Tizane bring together elements of Pop, Rock and alternative music to create a sound that is uniquely their own. Their music is characterised by memorable hooks, thought-provoking lyrics, and an irresistible blend of live instruments and electronic production. Similar artists include: Paramore, Olivia Rodrigo, Phoebe Bridgers, Wolf Alice ‘Forever is Nothing’ has arrived. Full of angst-ridden anthems, all ten songs serve up a beguiling brew of lyrical lament and gut-wrenching guitar, cooked up for brave hearts and big stages. Heavy Magazine said this – ‘You can almost feel the venom simmering just below the surface, and it sounds like this band has a bit of anger and angst to let loose on the world’. Tizane have been together for about a year and were an immediate good fit both artistically and emotionally. No surprise then that their music should sound so authentic and free flowing. Music and Television critic, Garry Bushell wrote in the Daily Mirror: ‘People compare lead singer, Tizane with Phoebe Bridgers but actually the group’s music is much bolder and rockier! They wrong foot you with gentle intros that grow into huge festival anthems.’ Garry is not alone in heaping plaudits on the band, and has recently been joined by Classic Rock Magazine, Planet Rock and even The Beeb. Band members are Tizane on guitar and vocals, Charlie Harris on lead guitar, Greg Titmarsh on drums and Nathan Gordon on bass. Get Tickets hereA Void – what in the fourchette genou are you doing here?? I bet you can already feel your limbs waving around in an onche onche ondulé motion, this is only the start. In about 15 minutes, you’ll get a tingling sensation in your nostrils and oysters will start slipping out your eye sockets, before a 17 feet long iguana gets released from a less pleasant orifice. you’re welcome.A VOID are a self-styled 3 piece rock band based in London, UK. They fuse the spirit of sonic grunge to a DIY punk aesthetic fueled by Boursin Cheese and pickle juice. Influences include Sonic Youth, Hole, Deftones, Bjork, Daniel Balavoine, Charles Aznavour.Formed in Paris by singer/guitarist Camille Alexander in 2015, the band unleashed their first EP, Roses As Insides, in June 2016, before cannibalistic tendencies got the better of original drummer Roman Zaborski and bassist Robin Dickinson. Camille quickly enlisted the hard- hitting drumming skills and harmonious vocals of Marie Niemiec, before they sought exile in London. The bandgigged as a two-piece until they discovered their bassist, Aaron Hartmann, lurking on a park bench.The band independently birthed their debut full-length album, Awkward And Devastated, inNovember 2018, and celebrated by performing dual album release gigs at The Windmill in Brixtonand Supersonic in Paris. In March 2019, A VOID were the only band that featured female musicians to be shortlisted from300 applications for the Northern Exposure/INmusic Festival contest, and were invited to performin the final at the legendary Cavern Club in Liverpool. The band self-released their second album Dissociation in September 2022, from which they released five singles: Sad Events Reoccur, Stepping On Snails, Newspapers, 5102 and Sick As ADog. Each of these singles comes along with a music video with unique sets carefully imagined andcrafted by the band themselves, directed and edited by frontwoman Camille Alexander, featuringpaper planes, snails crawling on their faces, and piles of newspapers. Dissociation was createdduring 2020-21 lockdown, recorded, mixed and mastered by Jason Wilson whose production credits include You Me At Six, Don Broco, Dinosaur Pile-up and Reuben. Stepping On Snails received over 46 000 plays on Spotify since its release in August 2021 and Newspapers, 39 000 since April 2022. Both track have been featured in major Spotify editorialplaylists such as All New Rock, Smells Like Stream Spirit, Volume France and Post-GrungeAppreciation. Three of the singles from Dissociation have received national radio plays on Ouï FMand RTL2 (France), Radio X (UK) and Radio FM4 (Austria).The band celebrated the release of this second album with a packed show at the Shacklewell Armswhich they organized themselves, and a live showcase and signing of their 12” vinyl (distributed byPunk Fox Records via Rough Trade) at Rough Trade East.In February 2023, A Void played their first ever shows in Germany, supporting SUN (FR/DE), andSorry (UK) on their Cologne and Hamburg show in the mythical Molotow club, as well as playing asold out headline show in Berlin at Schokoladen.The band follows this tour by the release of ‘2023’, a tongue in cheek single about the end of theworld which was aired Alyx Holcombe’s show on BBC Radio 1 as well as getting included intomajor Spotify playlists such as All New Rock and Alternative Noise.A VOID consistently play incendiary shows across their native Paris and adopted home city ofLondon, and frequently spread their chaos further afield to other cities such as Brighton,Nottingham, Liverpool and occasionally venturing into Europe (Netherlands, Germany) ! The bandare available for gig bookings, birthday celebrations, wedding receptions, fromage shop openingsand any event requiring a heavy dose of “buzz-saw grunge pop that combines bitter grit and a self-effacing lyrical charm…” (The Vapour Trail).A VOID have performed shows for a variety of emblematic live music venues in the UK andFrance, including Concorde 2, Bus Palladium, the Cavern Club, The Dome, Belgrave Music Hall,Molotow Club and have shared stages with Sorry, Calva Louise, The Wytches The Pearl Harts,SUN, Skating Polly, The SoapGirls, Hands Off Gretel amongst many others. The band win overnew converts at every show they perform and have built up a significant social media presence.They are currently recording their 3rd album with Grammy winning producer Shuta Shinoda,expected spring 2024. Get Tickets hereAce Persona – “Innovative interpretation of rock in a relatable context. Down to earth lyrics and infections grooves.” Ace Persona, a band with their roots in Camden (London), are a four-piece Alternative Rock band influenced by artists such as: Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, and Arctic Monkeys. In addition to these, other artists make their way into the band’s sounds, ranging from Amy Winehouse to A Tribe Called Quest. Founded in their university, these four are fueled by their love of music and passion to push the boundaries of rock with their unique sound. With their sophomore single “Time Goes Back Around”, which was released on the 28th of July, and live shows ready to play, this band is one you need to watch… Get Tickets hereArchy & the Astronauts – use gritty, hard hitting riffs with driving walls of sound to grasp their audiences with energy and tenacity. The band has gathered influences from across all genres of music, executing their sonic vision with witty lyricism and catchy hooks. With unmatched drive and on-stage prowess, these up-and-comers bring a fresh and youthful exuberance to modern rock. Since forming in 2021, the band has gone from hometown shows to festivals up and down the country, as well as venturing to the US. Debuting at Latitude Festival, the fiery 3 piece continued to grow, securing shows in New York City in June 2022. With continued support from BBC Introducing, the band has set out to release a slew of singles, surprising fans with their diverse yet grounded sound. With a live set that baffles, and a body of work that continues to grow, 2023 really does look to be out of this world… Get Tickets hereWe started Camden Live to get more people into the incredible music scene here: one of the best in the world with so much going on that it’s hard to keep up. We want to be your guide, let us be your companion, as you explore and discover what is going on!Please share the live music love ♡ Follow us on socials @cmdnlive, support artists and even better share with other music lovers. It makes a big difference and we send our thanks in advance.Point is, we’re out here making something in Camden for Camden. For the bands from around here, and the ones who are arriving from god-knows-where stinking of van fumes. And obviously, for everyone who likes keeping them on the road.Rock on!
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22-10-23 DUBLIN CASTLE – our next CMDN gig!
Don’t miss our next gig at Dublin Castle on October 22nd for some ROCK’N’ROLL with the amazing: SEVEN RED LIONS, CLAY SOLDIERS, DAYLIGHT ROBBERY, DIRTY MITTS! >>> GET TICKETS HERE DAYLIGHT ROBBERY Hailing from in and around Birmingham, England – DAYLIGHT ROBBERY they have risen quickly to produce three hugely acclaimed albums ‘Cross Your Heart…and Hope to Die’, ‘Falling Back to Earth’ & 2020’s ‘The Enemy Within’. The stella reviews of their debut album meant that they suddenly found themselves touring the UK with Uriah Heep, appearing with It-Bites and playing the main stage of the inaugural HRH/AOR at Magna Park, Sheffield (being acknowledged as the band of the day). Daylight Robbery’s second album ‘Falling Back to Earth’ went on to receive accolades from all over the world resulting in two album of the year awards in the printed rock press – Powerplay Magazine, UK & Rock Hard Magazine, Germany. This enabled the band to appear at Knebworth alongside Metallica, Dream Theater and Alice in Chains and playing arenas with Whitesnake, Def Leppard, Rainbow and Black Sabbath. They have appeared at numerous Hard Rock Hell events as well as headlining smaller festivals and undertaking their own shows. Daylight Robbery’s greatly anticipated 3rd album ‘THE ENEMY WITHIN’ was released during the summer of 2020 again to fantastic reviews with the first three singles being the incredible ‘DIGITAL PREACHER’, the 80’s sounding classic ‘HOUSE OF PAIN’ and the anthemic ‘WAITING FOR TOMORROW’. The band are now focused on a more classic rock approach and their new single ‘Edwards No.8’ is a true classic rock anthem which can be heard on radio stations around the world! SEVEN RED LIONS Seven Red Lions is an indie rock band based in London. Composed of lead singer and guitarist David Lion from Mexico and singer and bass player Sara Priegue from Portugal. After they met in London in 2014, they decided to pursue their dreams, and in 2015 they launched their first EP; since then, the band has been actively launching new material and playing around the world. The diverse nationalities that makeup Seven Red Lions can be felt in the tone of their music. “This band have an amazing indie rock sound that will leave you in awe with awesome guitar solos, speedy drums and impressive harmonies!” Check out their socials here: Instagram – Spotify – Youtube CLAY SOLDIERS Formed in London, 2020; Clay Soldiers are a rock band, combining rock, grunge Doom and stoner-rock elements along with melodic guitars and heavy rocking grooves.It is through dark chapters and the desperation of life’s struggles that have shaped the balance of their music, with the aim of reaching out to others, in reflection of of own experiences and to help build communities through music.Their most notable achievements to date are achieving the Pipebomb Radio NYC ‘Artist of the Month’ in April 2021, as well as reaching the top four of the ‘Isaac Banks Top Ten Singles’ on Banks Radio Australia with their single ‘Ghost (Piano Edit)’. To date, ‘Ghost’ has also received over 5000 streams in more than 38 different countries worldwide.However, it is their latest highly acclaimed single, ‘Drive It Home’ which over just four months received over 4000 streams continues to be the most popular track in over 79 countries worldwide. Clay Soldiers have enjoyed a solid run of shows in London and the South, where their EP Release Show at The Fighting Cocks, Kingston and their support show in Southampton were both sell-out occasions. They recently performed at The Autumn Festival in London as well as becoming involved in the Music For Ukraine Fest 2022, and will be appearing at the renowned Heaven & Hell Fest 2023, Rotherham. Check out their socials here: Instagram – Spotify – Youtube DIRTY MITTS You can scrub and scrub, but the Dirt just won’t come off!Dirty Mitts, a four-piece band made up of Tommy (singer), Matt (bass player), Mo (both guitarists), and Mateusz (drums), is an eclectic group of musicians from the UK, Poland, and Egypt who came together in 2022, bonded by a shared passion for classic, loud Rock’n’roll. Their sound is a combination of bluesy, vintage, and energetic tunes that are sure to have listeners on their feet.With thumping energy, crashing drums, and raucous vocals, Dirty Mitts leave no stone unturned in their decisively powerful and high-octane output. The band has decades of experience between them from being signed to touring in Africa, with fate leading them together to form the greatest rock band you just don’t know yet! Check out their socials here: Instagram – Spotify – Youtube Don’t miss this night of Camden’s finest ROCK! Discover live music you NEED to hear! Get tickets here We started Camden Live to get more people into the incredible music scene here: one of the best in the world with so much going on that it’s hard to keep up. We want to be your guide, let us be your companion, as you explore and discover what is going on! Please share the live music love ♡ Follow us on socials @cmdnlive, support artists and even better share with other music lovers. It makes a big difference and we send our thanks in advance. Point is, we’re out here making something in Camden for Camden. For the bands from around here, and the ones who are arriving from god-knows-where stinking of van fumes. And obviously, for everyone who likes keeping them on the road. Rock on!
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MAR 29th DUBLIN CASTLE: AMANN&THE WAYWARD SONS
Get Tickets HereWe’re thrilled to announce that @amannandwswill be coming all the way up from Bilbao (ES) to headline with us @dublincastlecamdenon March 29th 😍🙌Make sure to get your ticket as soon as possible and before January 15th for early bird ticket prices! 🐦The sound of AMANN & THE WAYWARD SONS mainly influenced by the sounds of the South of the US blues, soul, roots and southern rock. 🏜️A show you definitely don’t want to miss!
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Dive into ‘The Glass Girls’ – Sharper Side’s Explosive Debut EP Out Now!
Sharper Side has officially dropped their much-anticipated debut EP, ‘The Glass Girls,’ and it’s a sonic explosion that demands your attention! London’s dynamic music scene is buzzing with excitement as Sharper Side, the high-energy 3-piece pop-punk/alternative rock band from North London, has just unleashed their much-anticipated debut EP: ‘The Glass Girls’ Having left an indelible mark with their energetic performances at Camden Live, Sharper Side is set to captivate audiences with this bold musical journey! The trio, comprised of Chris Treasure (Guitar & Lead Vocals), Ben Zwaig (Bass & Backing Vocals), and Laurence Moore (Drums), channels the spirit of late ’90s/early 2000s pop-punk while infusing it with modern zest, angst-heavy themes, and irresistible hooks – the perfect blend for the dynamic rock scene of the 2020s. The Glass Girls EP – Out Now and Ready to Rock Your Playlist! British Pop Punk trio Sharper Side has just delivered their biggest release to date, and it’s available for your listening pleasure on all major streaming platforms. Released on January 19th, 2024, ‘The Glass Girls’ EP is a five-track powerhouse that captures the essence of the late ’90s/early 2000s pop-punk era while injecting a modern, energetic twist. Take a deep dive into the infectious rhythms and relatable lyrics of Sharper Side’s new release! The EP kicks off with the title track, ‘She Said So’ a gritty pop-punk anthem that takes a lyrical swing at the modern influencer/follower bond, shedding light on the misleading world of online role models. The journey continues with the light-hearted and catchy ‘Scars’ delivering a simple message about embracing the quirks of being a little crazy. ‘Deep Down’ sees the band diving into introspection, using oceanic and maritime metaphors to explore their inner selves. ‘Four Thousand Club’ offers a bouncy social commentary on workplace affairs, while ‘Hurts Like Hell’ closes the EP with an intense beat and a powerful message about the pain of hope. Listen Now! The wait is over, and the EP is out – don’t miss your chance to be part of the Sharper Side movement. Head over to your favourite streaming platform, hit play, and let the electrifying tunes of ‘The Glass Girls’ fill your ears with pure pop-punk goodness. Recording Details: The Glass Girls EP and tracks were recorded, mixed, and produced by Max Hopwood at London Road Studios, Baldock, England in 2023. Stay in touch and support Sharper Side on their Socials! https://sharperside.co.uk/ YouTube – Apple Music – Instagram – Facebook – TikTok
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“I’m Not Interested in Getting into a Box”: Interview with David Ryder Prangley of Rachel Stamp
The UK had a lot going on in the nineties. It was a high-point in our musical history and the scene was revered worldwide. But whilst Spice Girls were teaching the value of Girl Power and Oasis and Blur were battling it out for the hearts and minds of young, Adidas clad youths, somewhere, a new, hungry wave of ‘alternative’ British teens were crying out for something…louder. For me, the answer was Rachel Stamp. Beautiful, wild and paying seemingly little regard to convention Rachel Stamp were the band that made you feel you could do or be anything. Once every few years, us Rachel Stamp fans have the pleasure of feeling that buzz all over again when they get together to perform a rare live show. Simona and I went down to meet Vocalist and Bass player, David Ryder Prangley at the charming Basement Tearooms under Camden Lock Market to chat about their upcoming gig and the band’s ongoing legacy. Hi David, lovely to see you today. And you too. It’s a bit early for me. I know it’s sort of gone midday, but I don’t usually wake-up ’til mid afternoon. I get out of bed, but I’m just not moving! So are you more of a vampire, living the nightlife? I suppose so, yeah. But a good vampire, or a bad vampire? That’s the question. We’re very excited because you’ve got a gig with Rachel Stamp coming up on Valentine’s Day (14th February)! What makes a Rachel Stamp show the perfect thing to take your lover too? I actually think it’s quite ironic that we’re playing Valentine’s day as most of our songs are about what a bad idea it is to fall in love. I guess our songs are romantic in the same way as something like Wuthering Heights, where it’s all sort of death and pain. Our songs would never be like, “I’ve met someone nice, let’s go for a drink”, they were more like “I’ve met an angel and they’re literally an angel and I’m just a human being, so I’m going to have to die if I want to be with them”. That’s the general lyrical attitude of Rachel Stamp. How’s Robin doing, is he going to be with you at this gig? So the gig we’re doing now was actually meant to be a couple of years ago and it got postponed because Robin had cancer and he’s been very open about that. Thankfully, his treatment has been very successful. I mean, he’s been through hell with that. Really horrific stuff. But the thing with Robin, he’s so committed to rock and roll. Even when he’d not long had an operation he’d be on stage playing drums and you know when he gets on stage, it’s gonna happen. I’ve worked with Robin over the years, with a lot on bands I’ve produced. Everyone’s just surprised how quick and good it is. We’re very lucky, everybody in the band is a fantastic musician and take what they do very seriously. How did the band get started? I grew up in Wales, in a village called Dinas Powys. I got into bands back when I was a teenager. I was in a band myself when I was 13, doing gigs in clubs and stuff. It was really hard to get anywhere in Wales at the time. It was before that mid-nineties, Welsh explosion of bands like Catatonia, Stereophonics and all that kind of stuff, so I moved to London where I met, Will Crewsdon (guitar) and we put together the band. At the time, all the bands around were all kind of Brit Pop. So it was very much that quintessentially English kind of thing and being from Wales, I didn’t think of myself as being English. I never really got that whole kind of ‘Kinks’ vibe. Whilst I appreciated bands like Blur, for me, it was not really what I wanted to do. The British music that I liked was things like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest, but most of the stuff I liked at the time was American. So when we started Rachel Stamp, we wanted to not really sound like anything else and I think we achieved that. David Ryder Prangley chatting to Simona So how would you describe Rachel Stamp’s music to anyone who has never come across you before? If asked loosely to describe it, I would say we sounded like a cross between Prince and Black Sabbath with strange lyrics about my tortured, Catholic youth. It seemed briefly there in the late nineties, that there was a new era of modern glam on the horizon that you were at the forefront of. Bands like yourself, King Adora and Placebo even seemed to be coming along and putting the glitter back into rock, while Britpop was trying to paint everything Khaki. Did you feel yourself that there was a movement happening at the time? If so, what do you think that happened to it? That’s a really interesting question. I think that in Rachel Stamp, whilst obviously we loved artists like Bowie and Marc Bolan and in some ways were trying to do something similar, it was also very much of the time. I think the same applies to Placebo and King Adora; even though it was heavily influenced by the early seventies glam thing we weren’t trying to do a revival. I think lyrically, all the bands had been heavily influenced by Nirvana and the grunge movement and the fact that everybody was quite cynical at the time, for better or worse. Interestingly, I think for the fans it was very much like a movement and people into Rachel Stamp were into Placebo and into King Adora, but for the actual bands there was somewhat of a rivalry going on. Did you know any of those guys? I got to know Brian, Molko, and I know one of the guys from King Adora and we’re friends now, but initially it was just competition. It wasn’t like, “Yeah, we’re all in this together”. It was really like, “Fuck you, I did this”, or whatever. Which is quite funny when you look back on it. Prior to that, I think that for all its androgyny, pop music was quite homophobic and sexist. The thing about that mid-nineties ‘movement’ was that it was no longer a big deal to be gay. It didn’t make any difference. And that sort of sexism had gone out the window. You know? I had always loved female artists and I looked up to them as my peers. The whole riot grrl thing had happened and from Rachel Stamp’s point of view, we were very much part of that attitude. I think for the people getting into us, it was good and you can see the influence now. In the 90s you’d rarely see gay couples walking down the street holding hands. You just wouldn’t get it. I used to get regularly threatened for wearing makeup, just walking down the street and it’s hard to believe that now. So I think what we were doing has had a positive influence. Do you feel like maybe there was a more rebellious nature to the music scene of the late nineties/early 2000s that is lacking now? I think the difference maybe is that in the 80s and 90s at least, if you were an ‘alternative’ person, that you really were fighting against the norms of society. I think that maybe to certain extent it’s a lot easier to be kind of weird these days. I’m not sure it necessarily means as much as it used to. You know, it used to be that you were taking your life in your hands. If you were to walk around Cardiff with pink hair and makeup, you literally would dice with death because there was like 20 people that wanted to kick the shit out of you just for looking like that, in the middle of the day, let alone in the evening. Gender has become (or maybe reemerged) as a mainstream top discussion over the past few years. Are you happy this topic has gained some awareness? I think it’s really fascinating. I think it’s kind of a trend at the minute to talk about gender, but that’s good. We should take advantage of that because it’s going to influence younger people so they can grow up with different attitudes to the generation before them. I know a lot of young people and younger artists who use the term non-binary. It’s a really interesting term and I think if that term had been used in the mid-nineties, a lot of my friends and probably myself would have used it. It’s not really to do with sexuality but with what you’re expected to do and how you’re expected to act within society. A lot of people are rejecting traditional gender roles that just don’t apply to the modern age. I mean it is kind of ridiculous when you think that men and women are supposed to wear certain types of clothes. It’s just a bit of material that you’re hanging on yourself. You know, there used to be a time when it was outrageous for girls to wear trousers! David Ryder Prangley of Rachel Stamp at The Basement Tearooms Do you think Rachel Stamp as a band, and yourself individually, have had any role in that becoming a mainstream topic now? I think probably so, just because, you know, we were featured in fairly prominent magazines like Kerrang! and Metal Hammer and I’ve met quite a few people who saw the band and it inspired them to just be comfortable with who they were themselves. I can’t say for sure, but I think that the visibility of the band, as well as bands like Placebo in particular, definitely inspired a lot of younger people to just be who they were without caring too much what other people thought, which is great, and I’m very glad that that happened. What are your own feelings on gender? I always had like a strange relationship with gender myself. Growing up in Wales where there was quite a macho drinking culture; I just didn’t identify with that at all. For a long time I was questioning gender and what I wanted to be. When I moved to London, the way that I looked was really influenced by the fact that I liked a lot of female artists. My role models are people like Suzi Quattro and Joan Jett and then my male role models are people like Prince. But you know, I think now I’m at a point in my life where I’m just happy being what I am. I don’t really see myself as male or female in a traditional sense. You know? If you want to go beyond that to science, I think that the way people’s genetics are made up, I think there’s different gradients of being male or female. But really I think gender in people, it’s just kind of a bit boring. It’s kind of like, “Get in this box. Get inside this box. Get in the other,” you know? I’m just not really interested in getting into a box. I feel I just want to act the way that I act and be influenced by the people that I’m influenced by and not really care about the, you know … physical makeup. Apart from Rachel Stamp, have you got any other projects that you’re working on already? I’ve got a solo album ‘Black Magic & True Love‘ coming out on the same day that Rachel Stamp’s going to play the Underworld. I’ve also got this band, Spiral Dial with Liza Bec that’s like a much more leftfield thing and I’ve just written an album with the Lux Lyall called Vamp, which is coming out this year. I play guitar and bass on that and we wrote the album together. Who would be your ideal artists to perform a duet with? This very nearly came true! My favorite singer is Inger Lorre. She was singing in a band called Nymphs, and is now a solo artist. When Rachel Stamp got together, we were all talking about bands that we all liked. Me and Will would be really into like Red Cross or whatever. Or like, Robin and Will were really into like Body Count and Ice T and then Sheena and me were into weird things like John Parr. But The Nymphs was the one band that everybody was into before they were in Rachel Stamp. So we actually covered a Nymphs song called ‘Sad and Damned‘. We did it when we performed in Camden a few years ago, and the singer from Nymphs got in touch with me saying that she really liked our version. So we’ve sort of become friends online now and we plan to do a record together. Hopefully that will come to fruition, she’s definitely my favorite singer. If you could go back in time and live one year of history, what year would that be? Wow, that’s a really hard question. From a personal, sort of hedonistic point of view, that would be maybe some time in the 1920s where people were dressing crazy, drinking champagne and driving big cars like the Great Gatsby. But I think musically, maybe go back to 1955 when rock and roll really started with Little Richard Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry. Maybe to be there at the start of that, because, you know… I can’t imagine! Even now when I listen to a Little Richard record it’s incredibly exciting to me. So to have heard that at the time of its inception would be amazing. Or perhaps the late sixties when Jimmy Hendrix was around. ‘Cause again, I can’t imagine what it must have been like hearing those sounds for the first time. Nobody hadn’t done it before! He’s still my favourite pop star and he’s just got everything. He’s an incredible player, reckless and wild and just looks fucking cool. So, of course, you played the Underworld two years ago as well. Is there any reason you chose to come back to this venue in particular? Well, Camden is very significant in the history of the band. We were initially signed to a deal with Warner Brothers, after a gig at what used to be called the Monarch… but not the Monarch that’s there now. The place that went on to be The Barfly which has now closed down. Then we used to play this big club night called Hard-Boiled, run by a guy called Simon. After we were dropped (before anyone had heard of us) and were putting out our own records, he put us on every month and that’s where we built our following. Then you sort of move down to the Underworld because its a bit bigger. Then eventually we would go down to, Camden Palace, you know, Koko where we would play the ‘Feet First’ nights. So it was really where the band started and where we really got popular. Robin’s first gig with us was at the Underworld as well. We like the venue, we get on really well with the people that run it. It’s a very easy to do show there. It was the Underworld where someone once handcuffed themselves to me when I came off stage! Loads of things have happened there, so it just seems like the right place at the right time. I’m really looking forward to the gig. It’s really interesting when we do Rachel Stamp gigs cause people have such strong memories of the band. We’re very lucky that the band means so much to a lot of people. So there’s a responsibility to kind of fulfill everybody’s expectations, but at the same time, it can’t just be nostalgia because that would just be horrible. You know, it would be like, sort of wheeling corpses on stage and I’m just not interested in that. That’s the funny thing, singing a song that I wrote when I was 20 now and making it mean something to people, which is a challenge sometimes, but I’m confident that we can. Everybody in the band is very precious about it. We approach every gig we do like it’s gotta be the best gig we’ve ever done. It just has to be. I don’t want people to come and go, “Oh yeah. It was a night out of nostalgia. Reminds me of when I used to go out and get drunk” you know? I want people to come to the gate and go, “Wow, I experienced something really great tonight”!
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Black Doldrums Camden Assembly July 31st – CMDN’s last gig
It’s the end of an era. After years of championing live music in the heart of Camden, spotlighting underground heroes, international icons, and homegrown legends – CMDN Live is coming to a close. One last gig. One final night of distortion, sweat, community, and catharsis. I still can’t believe I’m writing this.BUT there’s no better band to close the book than Black Doldrums.🎫 camden-live.com/tickets 🎸 THE FINAL CMDN GIG: BLACK DOLDRUMS @ CAMDEN ASSEMBLY | 31 JULYHailing from London, Black Doldrums are one of the UK’s most exciting sonic forces in the modern post-punk and shoegaze scenes. The trio: Kevin Gibbard (vocals/guitar), Sophie Landers (drums), and Matthew Holt (bass) don’t just play music; they conjure atmospheres. Their sound is a heady collision of gothic rock, reverb-heavy psychedelia, and hypnotic rhythms, creating what Rolling Stone calls “a mix of Gothic-rock and shoegaze sounds to die for.”Formed with a DIY spirit and deep reverence for the darker edges of rock history, Black Doldrums quickly found a cult following across Europe. Their 2022 debut album Dead Awake earned them critical acclaim, but it’s their sophomore LP, In Limerence (2024), that cemented their place as one of the genre’s most vital new voices. That album, praised by Louder Than War for its “lush yet glacial soundscapes” — pushes their sound to new depths, balancing intensity with eerie beauty. Onstage, they’re a force of nature.Landers’ drumming is primal and commanding – each beat a ritual. Holt’s basslines weave a brooding undercurrent of tension and drive. And Gibbard’s layered guitar textures spiral into the ether – melodic, distorted, euphoric.Their performances feel less like gigs and more like ceremonies. You don’t just hear Black Doldrums – you feel them. It’s the kind of immersive experience that’s drawn comparisons to Joy Division, Bauhaus, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and My Bloody Valentine – but they’re not nostalgic. They’re future-facing, building on the past to forge their own haunting, beautiful path. Read more about last year’s gig here This July 31st, Black Doldrums return to Camden Assembly, exactly one year after they last turned it into a cathedral of sound. That night still echoes in our minds – and this time, it’s even more emotional. Because it’s not just another gig. It’s the last one. The last chance to experience CMDN Live in its rawest, loudest, most transcendental form.🖤 CMDN Live x Black Doldrums – The Final Show📍 Camden Assembly🗓️ Wednesday, 31 July 2025🕖 Doors: 7.30 PM🎟️ £13 advance / £15 on the door🎫 camden-live.com/ticketsWhat the press says about Black Doldrums:“A mix of Gothic-rock and shoegaze sounds to die for” — Rolling Stone“A fierce combination of post-punk, reverb, drone and melody” — Uncut“Youthful and ambitious contemporary rock ‘n’ roll” — Shindig!“Awe-inspiring… Black Doldrums create transient and euphoric dark post-punk.” — Louder Than WarIf you’ve ever felt the buzz of a Camden night crackling… come feel it one more time. Let’s raise a glass, raise the volume, and send with us this thing off in style.This is the final CMDN Live show. Be there. 🖤
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Amann & The Wayward Sons – July 18th – Dublin Castle
They’re Back! July 18th – CMDN Presents: Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The Deniros 🔥🇬🇧Amann & The Wayward Sons are hitting the UK this July, and we’re beyond thrilled to welcome them back to Camden for one very special night at The Dublin Castle on July 18th, 2025.This isn’t just another gig. It’s a reunion of wholesomeness, a celebration of sounds, and the kind of Rock’n’Roll community-driven moment we live for here in Camden! I mean, see for yourself below! 💥 July 18th, 2025📍 The Dublin Castle, Camden🎸 CMDN Presents: Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The Deniros🎟️ Tickets: £13 advance / £15 on the door👉 camden-live.com/ticketsLed by the incomparable Pablo Amann, this blues-rock force from Bilbao has been steadily rising through the ranks with their fiery blend of southern soul, roots, and pure rock grit. They’ve played alongside legends like The Beach Boys and Eric Gales, sold out shows across Spain, and earned a growing international fanbase from Canada to Brazil. And now, they’re bringing that heat straight to Camden as part of their brand-new UK tour – and guess what? They’re touring with two of our favourite CMDN bands: the hook-laden rock ‘n’ roll machine that is Seven Red Lions and the heart-punching The Deniros! Last year’s show with Amann was honestly one of the most wholesome, soulful, and electrifying nights we’ve ever had. The room was packed, the guitars were on fire, and the connection between band and crowd was unmistakable. People danced, smiled and strangers left the room as friends. That’s what CMDN is all about – music that makes you feel alive and building this community of rock lovers that we all are, becoming a family! So we’re doing it again. Bigger, louder, with even more heart, now that we aren’t strangers anymore but pals!If you’ve never seen Amann & The Wayward Sons live – this is your chance. Their latest album, When The Day Goes Slow, is a raw and emotionally charged journey that’s already struck a chord with fans across Europe. From the gospel-tinged tributes to the pandemic era to their crowd-funded comeback, this band is all about connection – and they bring that same intensity to every stage they step on.Add in the fierce energy of Seven Red Lions and the vibe of The Deniros, and you’ve got a triple bill that’ll shake Camden to its core! This is more than a gig – it’s a night of unity, defiance, blues and rock ‘n’ roll at its most real. And in the final run of CMDN shows before our summer break, this one means the world to us.💥 July 18th, 2025📍 The Dublin Castle, Camden🎸 CMDN Presents: Amann & The Wayward Sons + Seven Red Lions + The Deniros🎟️ Tickets: £13 advance / £15 on the door👉 camden-live.com/ticketsLast year’s show with Amann & The Wayward Sons and Seven Red Lions was a real highlight – not just musically, but emotionally. There was a special sense of connection that night – like a big musical family coming together through blues rock, energy, and joy!We’re so excited to bring that feeling back this July, right here in Camden. We can’t stress this enough: you do not want to miss this show. Come be part of something unforgettable.Let’s make this a night we’ll remember – together! Especially since unfortunately, it will be one of our lasts concerts before our break.Love,Nila + the CMDN Live crew🖤🔥🎶
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The End Of An Era: Camden Live Takes a Break After Summer
This is the blog post we never wanted to write.After this summer, Camden Live will be taking a break – and it’s with incredibly heavy hearts that we share this with you: our community, our artists, our team, and everyone who’s ever come to a gig, played our stage, or supported what we do.We started Camden Live out of pure love. Love for the music. Love for Camden. Love for the thrill of a live set that shakes your chest and sticks in your memory for years. Our mission has always been to keep that spirit alive – to spotlight raw talent, bring people together, and keep Camden’s heart beating loud!CMDN Live has been more than a gig series – it’s been a community forged through sweat, raw energy, and the unshakable spirit of Rock’n’Roll. Live music isn’t just what we do – it’s the pulse that keeps us going, the fire we’ve poured ourselves into and the connection we’ve cherished sharing with all of you. We’ve hosted over 200 shows since 2020 with over 500 bands, brought new talent into the spotlight, and made space for people to connect over the raw, irreplaceable energy of live music! We’ve watched new bands blow away their first crowds, seasoned legends return to the roots, and strangers become a crowd – a community – in front of a live stage.But the truth is: live music is struggling right now.Across the UK – and here in London especially – venues are closing, audiences are shrinking, and the scene is being squeezed. Costs are rising, attention spans are dwindling, and people just aren’t turning out like they used to. It’s not about blame. It’s about a very real and painful shift happening right now.For us, live music has never been a business-first operation – it’s been about passion. About soul. About building something with love and running it with grit. But no matter how much we care (and we care deeply), we’ve reached a point where it’s just not financially viable to keep going – at least not right now, and not in the way we believe this should be done.We’re devastated. Because music isn’t just something we like – it’s who we are. It’s how we connect, how we dream, how we breathe. There’s nothing in the world like the energy of a live show. It’s real, unfiltered, communal – and it’s the kind of experience that we believe makes life worth living.To see that kind of beauty struggle… it breaks our hearts.But we’re not walking away defeated. We’re pressing pause. Because even though things are hard, we believe in fighting for something right – and we hope this break gives us the space to figure out how we can keep that fight going.In the meantime, we’ve got three gigs left – and we’re asking you, truly, to come celebrate with us. Let’s go out with fire and joy and volume. Let’s honour what we’ve built together.Get Tickets HereLet’s Go Out the Camden Way — TogetherThese next three shows aren’t just gigs – they’re ours. Yours. Everyone’s. They’re a celebration of everything we’ve built together as the CMDN Live community: the artists, the crew, the regulars, the first-timers, the dancers, the screamers, the ones who stay ’til the lights come up and the guitars go silent.If you’ve ever joined our CMDN gigs and stood in a packed room in Camden and felt the bass in your chest, if you’ve ever discovered your new favourite band by accident, or had a pint with someone who just gets it – then you know why this matters. You’re one of us. And these final shows are for you.We’ve always said CMDN Live isn’t just about putting on gigs – it’s about making space for connection, chaos, and creativity. It’s about people coming together for something real. Something loud. Something you can’t stream or scroll past. And now, more than ever, we need to hold onto that.So join us. Come dance with us. Scream your lungs out. Discover a new band. Bring your mates, your neighbour, your weird cousin who used to play bass in a punk band – everyone’s welcome here. Let’s fill the room with love, volume, and Camden fire.🔹 June 27th @ The Dublin CastleCMDN Presents: Gigi Gold, Holly Harvey, Wild Talk, and Omega Bad – A glam-rock, alt-rock, blues-infused explosion of energy.Get Tickets Here🔹 July 18th @ The Dublin CastleCMDN Presents: Amann and The Wayward Sons, with support from The Deniros and Seven Red Lions – Anthemic BLUES rock with big heart and even bigger hooks.Get Tickets Here🔹 July 31st @ Camden AssemblyCMDN Presents: Black Doldrums, plus The Dead Zoo and Colour Me Blood Red – A dark, swirling finale of noise, psych, goth and post-punk mayhem.Get Tickets HereThis is it. The final three. For now. Let’s make them legendary.This community is the heart of Camden. You’ve kept this dream alive, show after show, and now we’re asking for one last surge of love before we take our break. Let’s light it up together.We’ll see you down the front.This has been the most beautiful ride. And it’s only been possible because of you. The fans, the bands, the crew, the venues, the scene. Camden Live isn’t just us – it’s all of us.So this isn’t goodbye. It’s just a pause. And we hope, with everything in us, that it won’t be for long.With love, heartbreak, and endless gratitude,Nila + the Camden Live crew
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Tony Iommi in Camden
HAPPY 77TH BIRTHDAY, TONY IOMMI! LET’S CELEBRATE THE RIFF MASTERI’ll never forget one of the first essays I ever wrote in English – it was about Black Sabbath, Tony Iommi’s accident, and how the bleak, industrial environment of Birmingham shaped the sound of metal. There’s something poetic about it, isn’t it? You could say a blessing in disguise, or maybe the devil’s work in disguise? Anyways, out of total misfortune – losing the tips of his fingers in a factory accident – Iommi forged a completely new way of playing guitar. That one moment of bad luck changed rock history forever!The darkest, heaviest riffs? They weren’t just a sound – they were resilience for the love of doom creation.And speaking of resilience and love of doom… did anyone else try to get tickets for the “Back to the Beginning” concert? It was like trying to win the lottery while wrestling a demon – The tickets vanished in just 16 minutes! If you managed to score one, we salute you. If not, don’t worry—there’s going to be a gathering outside the venue so fans can still come together and celebrate the legends of metal!TONY IOMMI: THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MASTER OF RIFFSBorn on 19th February 1948, Tony Iommi isn’t just a guitarist—he’s the guitarist who built heavy metal. When he lost those fingertips, most would’ve thought his career was over before it began. Instead, he did the unthinkable. He made his own prosthetic fingertips, down-tuned his guitar, and created the heaviest, most earth-shaking riffs of all time. That thick, doomy, unmistakable sound? That’s the backbone of metal, still copied to this day by every band that dares to be heavy. Black Sabbath’s signature was born out of this misfortune and the creation of a completely new sound! Because let’s be real – there is no doom, stoner, sludge, or anything remotely heavy today that doesn’t trace back to Black Sabbath. The band was officially formed in Birmingham in 1968 by Tony himself, at only 20 years old. Wild, eh?This is apparently the very first picture ever taken of Black Sabbath in 1968. BLACK SABBATH IN CAMDEN – ROUNDHOUSE, MARCH 1970 & THE ATOMIC SUNRISE FESTIVALNow, Camden—the heart of rock ‘n’ roll—had the absolute privilege of hosting Black Sabbath at The Roundhouse on 9th March 1970, when they officially debuted under their new name. Before Black Sabbath, the band had been known as Polka Tulk The origin of the name is up for debate – Some believe it came from a clothing shop in Birmingham (the Pulka Tulk Trading Company), while others think it was inspired by a brand of talcum powder. I genuinely love the idea so much, that the softest substance on earth could inspire the name of what would become one of the hardest band on the planet! Anyways, continuing the band name development – after Polka Tulk, they renamed to Earth, performing blues rock covers like so many British bands of the time. It was bassist Geezer Butler who pushed for a darker sound, inspired by the occult novels of Dennis Wheatley. That influence led him to write a song called Black Sabbath—the moment that changed everything. The first time they played it live, the audience went wild. They knew they were onto something massive. That night at The Roundhouse was more than just a gig. It was the birth of heavy metal.The same month, The Roundhouse also hosted the legendary Atomic Sunrise Festival, a seven-night celebration of counterculture music and radical theatre. The event featured David Bowie (with The Hype), Genesis, Hawkwind, Arthur Brown, Alexis Korner, Kevin Ayers, and more. Black Sabbath was scheduled to play but never showed up. The reasons remain unknown, but their absence only added to the festival’s underground mystique. The Atomic Sunrise Festival has since become legendary—not just for its lineup, but because some of the earliest footage of bands like Genesis, Hawkwind, and Bowie’s pre-Spiders outfit “The Hype” was captured there. Clips have surfaced on YouTube, and there was even an attempt to turn the festival footage into a proper DVD release, but nothing ever came of it. I found some original videos below: https://youtu.be/iDeOtQCr5SE More than just a gig series, the festival was a snapshot of a moment when rock music was evolving into something bigger than just entertainment—it was a movement. It was a time when the underground still felt limitless, when bands were discovering new sounds by the week, and when The Roundhouse stood at the center of it all.THE FINAL BLACK SABBATH SHOWBut unfortunately, we are not in the 70s anymore and speaking of pain, let’s talk about the “Back to the Beginning” concert happening in Birmingham this summer. Black Sabbath. The greatest metal bands of all time. A lineup so insane it should be illegal. And if you’re thinking of getting tickets now? Yeah, good luck with that. Scoring one of those was like trying to summon a demon—you had to sell your soul, fight a hundred other metalheads, and probably still ended up empty-handed. But hey, if you did get a ticket, congrats—you’re about to witness history.WHY IOMMI IS STILL THE MOST IMPORTANT GUITARIST IN METALIt’s one thing to invent heavy metal. It’s another to define it for over five decades. Tony Iommi’s riffs are the foundation of everything heavy. Every metal band—from Metallica to Mastodon—owes him their sound. Brian May of Queen called him a “true pioneer.” James Hetfield worships him as “the king of the heavy riff.”And it’s not just the music—it’s the attitude. Iommi embodies persistence, reinvention, and the refusal to back down. Even after countless surgeries, health battles, and Sabbath’s ups and downs, he’s still here. Still riffing. Still shaping the music we love.I’m running out of space, so here are some random and intriguing facts about Tony:Self-Taught Left-Handed Guitarist: Tony Iommi is a self-taught musician who plays the guitar left-handed. Factory Accident Led to Unique Guitar Style: At 17, while working as a sheet metal worker, Iommi lost the tips of two fingers on his right hand in an industrial accident. Inspired by jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, who also played with injured fingers, Iommi created homemade prosthetic fingertips and began using lighter guitar strings, leading to Black Sabbath’s signature heavy sound. The Scar and the Moustache: As a child, Iommi was chased by a neighbour wielding a spider, causing him to trip and cut his upper lip on gravel. The resulting scar led to teasing, and once he could, he grew a moustache to cover it. Brief Stint with Jethro Tull: In 1968, Iommi briefly joined Jethro Tull, even performing with them during “The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus” concert. However, he soon returned to Black Sabbath, feeling a stronger connection with his original bandmates. Almost Composed for “A Nightmare on Elm Street”: Iommi was considered to write the soundtrack for the 1984 film “A Nightmare on Elm Street.” He read the script, met with producers, and even wrote a song, but ultimately, the collaboration didn’t materialise. Unreleased Collaboration with Lita Ford: He co-produced Lita Ford’s album “The Bride Wore Black,” but it was never released. Autobiography Publication: In 2011, Iommi published his autobiography titled “Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven and Hell with Black Sabbath.” Childhood Connection with Ozzy Osbourne: Growing up, Iommi and future bandmate Ozzy Osbourne attended the same school. Iommi admitted to bullying Osbourne during their school days, not knowing they would later form Black Sabbath together. John Bonham as Best Man: Led Zeppelin’s drummer, John Bonham, served as the best man at one of Iommi’s weddings. Only Constant Member of Black Sabbath: Throughout Black Sabbath’s nearly 50-year history, Iommi remained the only continuous member, anchoring the band’s evolving lineup. Early Musical Influences: As a teenager, Iommi was inspired to pick up the guitar after listening to Hank Marvin of The Shadows. Pioneering Use of Power Chords: Iommi was among the first guitarists to utilise three-string power chords, contributing to the development of Black Sabbath’s heavy sound. Brian May and Eddie Van Halen’s collaboration on the Star Fleet Project was facilitated by May’s friendship with Tony Iommi. May first met Van Halen through Iommi when Van Halen’s band opened for Black Sabbath. May recalled being astounded by Van Halen’s performance, comparing it to seeing Jimi Hendrix for the first time. This connection led to their collaboration on the Star Fleet Project, highlighting the camaraderie among these legendary guitarists.KEEPING CAMDEN ALIVE – THE SPIRIT OF LIVE MUSICAt CMDN Live, we do everything we can to keep the Camden spirit alive. We’re here to make sure live music thrives, to keep venues packed, and to support the next generation of bands who might just be the next Sabbath.So next time you head to a gig, whether it’s a tiny basement show or a packed-out venue, just remember—this is how legends start. By getting out there, playing loud, and refusing to fade away.SOURCES & EXTRA READING:Tony Iommi’s Biography Image: Tony Standing Guitar Image: First Picture ever taken of Black Sabbath Black Sabbath Concert History – Fandom Image of Atomic Sunrise Poster and fans in venue Image Black Sabbath Standing The Story of Black Sabbath in the 70s – Louder Black Sabbath’s Self-Titled Album – Wikipedia Ozzy Osbourne’s Official Tour Archives Atomic Sunrise Festival – DJTees David Bowie and The Hype at Atomic Sunrise – Bowie Bible On This Day – Black Sabbath in London Iommi Biography 10 Things You Might Not Know About Birthday Boy Tony Iommi Brian May Introduces Star Fleet Project Band In Part Two Of Mini-Series Image: July 24, 2010 in London, England. Photo by Chiaki Nozu/WireImageAnd if you were there at The Roundhouse in 1970, tell us your story—we’re dying to hear it, please send me an email with everything you can remember and would like to share and I will add your experience to this article 🙂 nilaya@camden-live.com
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Your Camden Gig Guide! What’s on in Camden this month?
CMDN Live Gig Guide: February and March Madness in Camden!Hey you!It’s been a month already and here we are back in Camden – the beating heart of London’s live music scene – with another month of mind-blowing gigs, packed with head banging riffs, soul-stirring vocals, and mosh pits you won’t forget. Here’s your essential guide to the hottest shows in town over the next four weeks. This second edition of 2025 includes a diversity of genres such as: Stoner Rock, Thrash Metal, Blues, Jazz, Soul, Folk, Post Hardrock, Psychedelic North African Blues, Hip Hop Country Fusion and many more!I’ve been checking out what is going on in Camden in the next few weeks and carefully hand-picked the best gigs in town – so, get your calendars ready, because you’re not going to want to miss a second of this! Green Lung – Heathen Neverlands UK Tour 2025When: Saturday 22nd February 2025Where: O2 Forum Kentish TownGenre: Stoner RockTickets here! Expect an old-school heavy metal show of epic proportions from the masters of folklore, Green Lung. With support from Unto Others and Satan’s Satyrs, this promises to be a night of crushing riffs and pagan vibes. I’ve seen these guys live before, and if you know me, you know this is my absolute jam. This is a must-see for any heavy psych rock fan! No Exit – Dublin CastleWhen: Sunday 25th February 2025Where: The Dublin CastleGenres: EDM / Alt Rock / Blues Garage Rock / Alt Hip HopTickets here! A mixed-genre night to blow your mind. Dance the night away with EDM heroine Bella Unwin, alt rock by Zoë Greenbaum, 60s blues-fused garage rock from The Forty Fours, and alt hip-hop from CopemanByGio. Hosted by MC Jake Wyatt—this is pure Camden chaos and I am here for it. CMDN Live Presents: Rusty Halo, Velvet Grip, Penny Skint, and Easy OnWhen: Thursday 27th February 2025Where: The Dublin Castle, CamdenGenre: Rock / Alt-Rock / BluesTickets here!CMDN Live closes out the month with a bang, returning to The Dublin Castle for a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll, from alt-rock brilliance to dynamic, melodic anthems! Rusty Halo: Known for their alt-rock sound influenced by legends like Led Zeppelin, Soundgarden, and Muse, Rusty Halo delivers powerful performances that leave audiences wanting more. Their music is a mix of epic riffs, soaring vocals, and intricate compositions. Velvet Grip: Blues, jazz, and metal collide in Velvet Grip’s unique sound. Their performances are dynamic and captivating, blending hard rock energy with unexpected twists. Penny Skint: This gritty alt-rock band has been making waves across London, packing venues with their raw energy and infectious hooks. Their sound is a modern take on classic rock, with a rebellious edge that’s impossible to ignore. Easy On: A three-piece ensemble that embodies the raw spirit of London’s music scene. Their melodic yet powerful sound is perfect for fans of dynamic, emotionally charged performances. Eric SteckelWhen: 1st March 2025Where: DingwallsGenre: BluesTickets here! Road-tested and seasoned from 22 years on stage, Eric Steckel is a blues veteran at only 31 years of age. Having played alongside legends like John Mayall, Steve Vai, and Gregg Allman, this is one blues show you don’t want to miss. Get ready for a night of searing guitar solos and soulful vibes. Biohazard & Life of AgonyWhen: Tuesday 4th March 2025Where: O2 Forum Kentish TownGenre: Thrash MetalBuy Tickets here!For the first time ever, two of Brooklyn’s heaviest bands Biohazard and Life of Agony will share the stage on a monumental co-headline tour. If you like Pantera, Helmet, and Anthrax, this one’s for you. Biohazard was one of the first bands to regularly incorporate elements of both hip-hop and hardcore metal into their sound. Life of Agony emerged from the New York music scene in the early ’90s with one of the most distinctive sounds in its genre. CELEBRATING THE QUEEN OF SOUL – FRANK VS BACK TO BLACK – By Ciara Haidar + Full Live BandWhen: Wednesday 5th March 2025Where: Jazz CafeTickets here! This March, we’ll be raising our glasses and celebrating the stunning sounds of queen of soul and Camden, Amy Winehouse, with a live performance of her two pivotal albums, performed by London’s leading musicians. It’s only fitting to relive the magic with London’s finest musicians in her beloved Camden hometown, on the very same stage Amy had previously graced with her performances. Touché AmoréWhen: Wednesday 5th March 2025Where: Electric BallroomGenre: Hardcore/Post-HardcoreGet tickets here! For more than a decade, Touché Amoré has set the gold standard in the contemporary hardcore scene. Their latest album, Spiral in a Straight Line, is a visceral reflection on monumental change and emotional reckoning. This is hardcore with heart, and with support from trauma ray, this Electric Ballroom show is guaranteed to shake you to your core. A Night Celebrating: PrinceWhen: Friday 7th March 2025Where: The Blues Kitchen CamdenTickets here! This March we will be honouring The Purple One, AKA funk legend, Prince. Expect to dance the night away as Blues Kitchen’s incredible house band rolls through all his greatest hits. As a massive Prince fan, I can already feel the groove—this is going to be a night of pure magic, and I couldn’t be more excited! Mumford & SonsWhen: Tuesday 11th March 2025Where: O2 Forum Kentish TownGenre: British Folk-RockBuy Tickets here!Mumford & Sons are back with a series of intimate live dates to celebrate their new album Rushmere, their first in seven years. With folk music at its nucleus, the band’s propulsive, heart-on-sleeve approach to acoustic instrumentation made them global stars with tracks like Little Lion Man and The Cave. I can’t wait for the nostalgia-fueled live experience at the gig, shouting and crying “I Will Wait” while hugging whoever is unfortunate enough to stand next to me haha. Need to check out the new album, but man, Babel hit hard when it came out in 2012. I remember listening to it up and down. Hejira Play Joni MitchellWhen: Tuesday 11th March 2025Where: The Jazz CafeTickets here! Celebrate the genius of Joni Mitchell with a stunning performance from Hejira, a band that channels the beauty and complexity of Mitchell’s legendary work. Hattie Whitehead’s vocals bring Joni’s spirit alive. This will be a night of poetry and pure magic. No Exit – Acoustic NightWhen: Tuesday 11th March 2025Where: The Dublin CastleTickets here! No Exit goes acoustic! Featuring Louie Forward, Tauby, Ella Raphael, and Max Bianco (one of our CMDN faves!) for a night of stripped-back songwriting brilliance. Hosted by Jake Wyatt. Can’t wait! CMDN Live Presents: Terminals, 4FOXSAKE, Next To Nada & More!When: Thursday 13th March 2025Where: The Dublin CastleGenres: Alternative Rock / Hard Rock / Fuzz-PunkTickets here! Terminals: Birmingham’s rising stars of alternative nu-gaze bring ambient riffs, immersive soundscapes, and emotional storytelling to Camden. Fans of Deftones and Radiohead, take note! 4FOXSAKE: This multinational London-based hard rock band is turning heads (and breaking necks) with their high-energy sound. Their debut album Light the Way smashed into the scene last year, and they’re ready to own 2025. Next To Nada: London’s own fuzz-punk powerhouse brings thick grooves, sarky lyrics, and a wall of noise to this night of pure rock mayhem. Think Lambrini Girls meets PIGSx7—an explosive cocktail of punk energy. Bab L’BluzWhen: Saturday 15th March 2025Where: Jazz CafeGenre: Psychedelic North African BluesTickets here! Ancient and current, funky and rhythmic, buoyed by Arabic lyrics, soaring vocals, and bass-heavy grooves, Bab L’Bluz embody the sound of modern Maghreb. They mesmerised me when I first listened to them—this is going to be special. St Pat’s Craic – Dublin Castle St Patrick’s Day Party!When: Saturday 15th March 2025Where: The Dublin CastleNo better place to celebrate St Patrick’s Day than Camden’s legendary Dublin Castle—a pub with more musical history than some entire cities and one of our favourite Camden venues. Expect Irish tunes, good vibes, and enough Guinness to fuel a ceilidh all night long. FEMUR w/ Kirk Vaughan SteagglesWhen: Saturday 15th March 2025Where: DingwallsGenre: Grunge/Psych-RockTickets here! A grunge and psych-rock hybrid, FEMUR’s brooding, maniacal sound is the voice of disaffected youth—and Kirk Vaughan Steaggles brings the raw bluesy psychedelia to match. Clube Da Esquina Anniversary PerformanceWhen: Tuesday 18th March 2025Where: The Jazz CafeTickets here! Celebrate the game-changing Brazilian record that inspired Paul Simon and Herbie Hancock. With Santa Terezas Band, Filó Machado & Gui Tavares, and D.Vyzor—expect sun-lit sounds and Brazilian grooves. ShaboozeyWhen: Wednesday 19th March 2025Where: KOKOGenre: Hip-Hop/Country FusionGet tickets here! From topping the Billboard Hot 100 with ‘A Bar Song (Tipsy)’ to collaborating with Beyoncé, Shaboozey’s unique blend of hip-hop and country is taking the world by storm. This is more than a concert—it’s a cultural event. Camden, are you ready for the vibe shift? InikoWhen: Friday 21st March 2025Where: KOKOGenre: Pop Soul / Alternative R&BTickets here! Brooklyn’s own Iniko brings their mystical and transcendent sound to KOKO for one night only. With their breakout hit ‘Jericho’ racking up nearly 150 million streams, and a genre-defying mix of soul, trap, and rock, this is going to be a stunning live experience. A Night Celebrating: Fleetwood MacWhen: Friday 21st March 2025Where: The Blues Kitchen CamdenTickets here! As a huge Fleetwood Mac fan, I cannot wait for this one! Expect all your Fleetwood favourites spanning decades of legendary music! Tokio HotelWhen: Monday 24th March 2025Where: O2 Forum Kentish TownTickets here! Right, as a half German, I must mention this gig—there’s no way around it! Another nostalgia-driven show. I remember moving from Spain to Germany around the time Tokio Hotel blew up, and how wild the emo-phase craze was and obsession of many German fans – imagine swifties now, that’s how it was back then, just in emo. I didn’t get the hype back then, neither kept up with their music, but just for the nostalgia, I’d go check them out – Schrei was a tune though. Do they even still sing some songs in German? And what happened to their cool hairstyles! Don’t Miss a Beat!Camden’s music scene is unstoppable, and you’ve got a front-row seat. Snag your tickets, mark your calendars, and subscribe to the CMDN Live gig guide to make sure you’re always in the know. Let’s keep this rock ‘n’ roll spirit alive—see you in the pit!Stay up to date with our CMDN live shows! Don’t miss out and them directly to your personal calendars below:Google Calendar IOS CalendarSupport Live MusicBy attending these gigs, you’re not just having a great time—you’re supporting the vibrant live music culture in Camden. This city has a rich musical history, and by being part of it, you’re helping to shape the future of music.If you’re playing in Camden soon, please let us know to feature your gig in our next edition or add to the current one!Let’s keep the Camden spirit alive! See you at the shows and rock on!– Nila
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Margarita Witch Cult 15-02 Camden Assembly
Attention doom fans – this week is absolutely epic! Black Sabbath’s final-ever show in Birmingham is making waves, with ticket sales launching on the 14th of February. I know many of us will be glued to our screens, rallying friends and anxiously refreshing the page, because that historic concert is almost impossible to secure.But here’s some good news: if you miss out on Sabbath’s tickets, Margarita Witch Cult is here to comfort you. As the new heirs to Birmingham’s metal legacy, these guys will be tearing up Camden Assembly on the 15th of February with an electrifying performance. Their raw, unrelenting mix of stoned sludge, thrash, and proto-metal madness is exactly what we need after a week of ticket sale frenzy.Get TicketsTrust me – if you’re like me, prepping with your mates for Black Sabbath’s ticket drop, you’ll want to lock in Margarita Witch Cult’s show! Get ready for back-to-back metal magic, and make sure you grab your tickets for the 15th before they’re gone! Get TicketsOn 15th February, Margarita Witch Cult are set to rock Camden Assembly with an electrifying performance that promises to shake the very foundations of London’s live music scene. Hailing from Birmingham—the very heartland of metal—these dark heirs to the Sabbath City’s legacy will deliver a performance that melds raw intensity with uncompromising style.Since the release of their lo-fi cassette demo Witchfinder in early 2022, Margarita Witch Cult have been making waves in the underground scene with their unique, relentless blend of stoned sludge, demented thrash, and proto-metal weirdness. Their rise to international acclaim, highlighted by a memorable appearance at Desertfest London, is only the beginning. Fronted by Screamin’ Scott Vincent on vocals and guitar, and backed by the powerhouse duo of George Casual on drums and Jim Thing on bass, this trio delivers a sonic assault that leaves audiences electrified and craving more. Drawing inspiration from Birmingham’s legendary doom metal roots, Margarita Witch Cult embody the raw, pioneering spirit of doom. Camden Assembly, with its storied history and vibrant atmosphere, is the perfect stage for their high-octane performance. Every crushing riff and thunderous beat will immerse you in an experience that captures the very essence of live metal.Get TicketsWhether you’re a die-hard metal fan or simply after a night of unfiltered, exhilarating music, this is one concert you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets now and prepare to be part of an unforgettable evening as Margarita Witch Cult unleash their unholy din in the heart of Camden!
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CMDN Interview with Philip Sayce
The very core of Camden is about the guitar. Thousands of great musicians have come from all over the world to play this instrument in front of music lovers. Philip Sayce plays at the top level. For him it is a homecoming back to driving on the left with the wheel on the right, to the UK where he was born. He is on tour now and will be near Camden on the 04th December at Islington Town Hall for a must see show. If you missed seeing Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn or Jeff Healy play live – don’t miss this if can find a way to get into the show. Read more here We caught up with Philip for a quick chat as he was getting ready to fly over from Los Angeles. Welcome home! Check the video below or watch it on our CMDN YouTube Channel. CMDN Interview with Philip SayceCMDN: Philip Sayce, world guitar hero of all time, coming to play soon in London. And we were very lucky that we were able to reach out to him and get him on the phone. So we have a little interview that we’d like to share with you right now. Let’s go. Live from Camden, Camden Live. Woo-hoo! Philip, where are you from, man? You grew up here, you live in LA, you’ve been put on the road. What’s your story? PS: So yeah, thanks for asking. I was born in Wales, grew up in Toronto, and have been living in Los Angeles for most of my adult life. And I did grow up on the road playing with Jeff Healy and Melissa Etheridge, as well as Uncle Cracker, and with my own band. And home for me is really wherever my family is. CMDN: What would you say can people expect of one of your shows? Philip Sayce / photo: Ian FraserPS: I think that people can expect myself and my band to really give 110% everything that’s in our hearts and souls. And for me to try to really dig deep and play from a place of gratitude. I’m a student of music, so I’m always trying to learn, trying to get better. CMDN: What’s it like touring in the UK these days? PS: Touring is not… it’s not as easy as it was certainly pre pandemic, but just the price of doing everything these days, the cost, um, and for people to come out to shows, like it’s just, it’s more difficult than it’s, I think it’s ever been, or it’s been in a long time. And, uh, so it’s not lost on me that it’s a real privilege and the UK is, is where I was born. It’s, uh, you know, the, the food I grew up with, the accents, the language, the, the whole vibe. And so it feels very familiar. Um,And I love it. I love it. I love having the opportunity to come to the UK. Listen and love his musicCMDN: What inspired your latest album? Can you tell us a bit about it? PS: My latest album is called The Wolves Are Coming. And what inspired it was really getting through the pandemic. Most of it was written during the pandemic or at least put together when things were all shut down. And so the album has a real grittiness to it. It has an intensity and urgency. And it was really connected to the way that that I was feeling, the way that I feel, and I think really just trying to let it all out. So there’s different songs on there that have a kind of a viciousness to them, but there’s also other songs that have a real kind of sense of love and gentleness. So I think really it kind of sums up everything that I was going through. CMDN: Does Bitches Brew on the last album have anything to do with Miles Davis?PS: Yeah, there’s a song on the album. I think it’s the first song. It’s called, Oh, That Bitches Brew. And no, it is not connected to the very well-known Miles Davis Bitches Brew album. But it certainly, I mean, we’re all inspired by Miles Davis in one way or another, for sure. But no, it’s a story. It’s a story about going to a party and not having a very good time. CMDN: Where would you say your next album is heading? PS: My next album is heading in an area… that is wherever my heart leads me. And we’ve already got some songs recorded, about four or five songs, and they’re sounding really good. I’m excited about them. I’m kind of going to percolate and kind of just kind of sit with them and see if I want to take a different approach or if they’re just fine as they are. It’s always going to be connected to blues. It’s always going to be connected to earth music from the heart for the heart. CMDN: What made you think that being a rock star was the right decision for you? PS: Always, I feel like it was a calling. I didn’t really think about it too much. It was just in my heart and in my soul. It called, it just called me, it pulled me in and it pulls me in every day. I’m so grateful for the gift of music and the love of music that I have in this lifetime and to have the opportunity to share what I feel through music is an incredible gift and I’m grateful every moment, every day. Philip Sayce / photo: Adam KennedyCMDN: Could you share with us if you must listen to tracks from other artists that rev you up? PS: Well, I have to say “Fire” by Jimi Hendrix, always. When that comes on, it’s like my heart starts racing. It’s so much fun. That song is amazing. I would say something by Audioslave, like “Cochise” is always a great song. Gets me going. I would say there’s a live album by Lee Michaels. Lee Michaels Live is, to me, super exciting. Such a vibe. Amazing. Anything by Albert Collins. Maybe “Scuttlebutton” by Stevie Ray Vaughan. And by Jeff Healy, maybe “See the Light” by Jeff Healy. Yeah, I mean, this is a long list. Albert King, “Wednesday night in San Francisco”. That gets me super excited. Maybe some James Brown, live James Brown, some live B.B. King, Freddie King live. Oh yeah, all kinds of stuff. CMDN: Thank you so, so much for your time. Amazing. It’s been a pleasure. Can’t wait to see you here in London. Bring your coat, it’s cold here. It’s freezing. See you soon in London. Take care.CMDN rocking Playlist inspired by Philip Sayce picksPlay list playlist loud!
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Jimi Hendrix
A Legendary Night in Camden: Jimi Hendrix at The RoundhouseToday marks the birthday of one of the most iconic figures in rock history—Jimi Hendrix. Born on November 27, 1942, Hendrix would go on to redefine the boundaries of music, especially through his innovative electric guitar techniques. While his legacy spans the globe, one of the most pivotal moments in his early career took place right here in Camden, London—a place where raw, rising stars continue to shine today!On February 22, 1967, Jimi Hendrix and The Jimi Hendrix Experience performed at The Roundhouse in Camden, an event that has since become legendary in the annals of rock history. At the time, Hendrix had yet to release an album, and he was still building his reputation in the UK music scene. But his performance that night—fuelled by passion and raw energy—captured the magic of what was to come. The gig was part of a short but unforgettable run of shows that helped to establish him as one of the greatest musicians the world has ever seen!The Roundhouse itself, a former railway shed-turned-venue, stands as a symbol of Camden’s rich cultural and musical heritage. It’s been home to countless legendary performances since its opening in the 1960s. What a time to be alive and in Camden, huh? Hendrix’s show was part of this tradition, and despite a small audience, the performance was electric. Supporting bands included The Flies and a portion of The Action, who were performing under the name Mighty Baby. The venue’s intimate setting made for a memorable night, even though the event was not yet the huge draw it would later become.However, not everything went smoothly. During the performance, Hendrix’s beloved black Fender Stratocaster was stolen from the side of the stage, a moment that led to a frustrated Noel Redding describing the gig as “awful.” But even with this setback, Hendrix’s performance was anything but disappointing. Hey Joe—was a highlight of the show, and despite the theft, Hendrix played with the same energy and creativity that would go on to define his career. It’s even rumoured that footage from that night has surfaced online, capturing the raw energy of the performance. Unfortunately, I could not find these allegedly recordings, so please do send them over if you happen to stumble across them!Interestingly, Gordon Hawtin, a fan who was there that night, offers a firsthand account that challenges some commonly held details about the event. Gordon, who worked as a junior guitar salesman at Sound City on Shaftesbury Avenue, recalls that Soft Machine was not on the bill, contrary to popular belief. He remembers The Flies and Mighty Baby as the supporting acts, and he even had the opportunity to interact with Hendrix before the show. Gordon vividly recalls how Jimi and his bandmates would frequent Sound City, where he had sold Noel Redding a Fender Jazz Bass just weeks before the Roundhouse gig. Gordon also shares the personal connection he had with Hendrix, serving him for guitar strings and other gear, including a Fuzz Pedal. Gordon offers a unique perspective on the gig. According to him, the event wasn’t a massive spectacle, and the crowd was relatively small—around 40 people. It is amazing to think that Gordon even had the chance to meet Hendrix and serve him at Sound City, a shop that was vital to many musicians of the time. Gordon’s memories give us a rare, personal glimpse into Hendrix’s early days, further solidifying the importance of supporting live music in Camden. His experiences prove how even these Camden venues can create legendary moments that ripple through music history!Camden was the heartbeat of music culture, nurturing young talent like Jimi Hendrix long before he became a household name. Hendrix’s meteoric rise was nothing short of extraordinary. By 1966, he had already earned a reputation as a virtuoso guitarist, despite not being able to read or write music. His style—a mesmerising blend of fuzz, feedback, and controlled distortion—pioneered a new sound that resonated across the globe. His debut album, “Are You Experienced?”, would cement his place in music history with classics like Purple Haze, Fire, and The Wind Cries Mary.By 1969, Hendrix had begun to experiment more deeply with his music, creating his own recording studio in New York City called Electric Lady Studios, where he would go on to record the monumental album Electric Ladyland. His influence extended beyond rock into genres like blues, jazz, and R&B, impacting artists like Miles Davis. Hendrix’s mastery of the electric guitar was one of a kind and keeps on inspiring!But even with all of his success, Camden remained a part of his story. Hendrix played at several Camden venues during his early days in London, including Haverstock Hill Country Club in January 1967 and pubs in West Hampstead, before his famed Roundhouse gig. These performances showcased the intimacy and raw energy of his live shows—a stark contrast to the massive stadium tours that would follow shortly after!Jimi’s connection to Camden—and specifically, to its vibrant live music scene—continues to resonate. CMDN Live, dedicated to supporting live music in Camden and celebrating its rich rock ‘n’ roll legacy, reminds us that the magic of places like the Roundhouse is still alive today. Just like Amy Winehouse and Coldplay once took their first steps on stages in Camden, today’s emerging stars could very well be the next legends to come from this electric cultural hub.Jimi Hendrix’s House in Soho: A Must-Visit MuseumWhile Jimi Hendrix is often associated with Camden, his influence on London can also be felt in the heart of Soho, where he lived during the peak of his career. Hendrix’s former residence at 23 Brook Street is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. It’s a fascinating place to visit for anyone wanting to dive deeper into his personal history and creative journey in London. The house, which he shared with composer George Frideric Handel (whose home was next door), provides an intimate glimpse into his time in the city and the music that shaped his legacy.The museum offers a treasure trove of artefacts, from personal belongings to musical instruments, and even plays host to regular events and exhibits. If you’re a fan of Hendrix, or simply want to learn more about one of the most influential musicians in history, this is a must-visit location. I can highly recommend going for a visit and already have been there myself a few times 🙂Visit the Jimi Hendrix Museum in Soho: Jimi Hendrix Museum at 23 Brook StreetJimi Hendrix’s Impact and Legacy:Jimi Hendrix’s story is one of musical evolution and innovation. His career, though tragically short, revolutionized rock and roll. His fusion of genres, pioneering guitar techniques, and boundary-pushing performances left an indelible mark on the music world. As we celebrate his legacy today, we are reminded that places like Camden, where he once graced small stages, continue to foster the next wave of musical talent. Hendrix’s journey—from Greenwich Village to Camden to worldwide fame—demonstrates the power of live music and its ability to shape and define culture.So, next time you find yourself at a gig in Camden, remember: the next Jimi Hendrix could be on that stage, just waiting to create magic. The Roundhouse and Camden’s other legendary venues continue to hold that spark, nurturing new talent while celebrating the vibrant history that artists like Hendrix helped create.Let’s continue to support live music in Camden—who knows which legendary artists we might discover next!Sources and links to explore:Roundhouse 50th Anniversary Photo Gallery of Jimi Hendrix’s 1967 Performance Sound City: The London Music Shop Where the Fuzz Face Was Born Jimi Hendrix Autographed Guitar String Packet Sold for £5,700 Facebook Comment with post here Signed Polaroid Image Gordon Hawtin’s Personal Memory of the Night:‘Gordon Hawtin You’ve got you facts wrong. Soft Machine were not on that night! I know because I was there and thats why they are not mentioned on the Flyer. The Soft Machine were previously playing on the 7 of Feb 1967.Me and Jimi Hendrix(Please don’t make any critical comment’s, based on articles you may have read, written by people who weren’t there!)On Jan 11 1967, on my 16th birthday, I got a Job as a Jnr Guitar salesman at Sound City, 124 Shaftesbury Ave London W1. I was for ever taking equipment, Amps and Bass’s and effect pedals, around to Jimi’s management office, which was just around the corner from Sound City, at 39 Gerrard St, London W1D 5QD.I cant remember if it was on the first or second floor of the building. Attached photos from a Sound City’s Loan and Approval book, page ref No1473, dated 20/1/67, for Jimi Hendrix, for a Marshal Super Fuzz Pedal, price 14gns in old money, signed by Sound City’s manager Brian Gilboy. Its highly likely that I took that pedal around to Jimi’s management office?.Sometimes Jimi Hendrix would come in on his own and I would serve him for Guitar strings, sets or individual Fender strings, Sound City had the Fender Franchise. Jimi used Fender Special Light Gauge Rock N Roll Strings.On Feb 7 1967, Jimi, Noel and Mitch came in to Sound City and I sold Noel his Fender Jazz Bass for a 100gns in old money (105 pounds) Noel took the Bass away without a case in it original shipping box. That the said Fender Jazz Bass, is now in a private Museum in Seattle?Before they left the store, Jimi Invited me to come and see him at the Camden Round House on the 22 Feb 1967. I lived just up the road in Haverstock Hill NW3. On the bill were The Flies and part of the band the Action, calling them selves Mighty Baby. Although Jimi was high in the hit parade with Hey Jo, There were only approx 40 people in the audience.In the 2017, The Round House anniversary of Jimi playing their, I found a photos of me looking a Jimi (Attached marked with a white arrow) Attached is the round house web site In pictures: Jimi Hendrix in 1967 – Roundhouse – Celebrating 50 Yearshttps://50.roundhouse.org.uk/…/photo-gallery-jimi…In the Tony Bacon article Sound City: The London Music Shop Where the Fuzz Face was born. I’m mentioned.https://reverb.com/…/sound-city-the-london-music-shop…In March 1967, The Jimi Hendrix Experience perform at The Starlight Room in the Gliderdrome Bingo Hall. Anthea Connell, was dating Eddie Cooke, the bass guitarist for the band Sons and Lovers. Who were the supporting act for the Jimi Hendrix Experience.From nowhere Jimi jumped off the stage and ambled over towards Anthea Connell, who was I was completely star-struck.”Jimi started talking to Anthea Connell but she couldn’t remember what he said. Jimi turned to his band members on the stage and asked one of the guys to give him something to write on.” “Someone came over with a couple of individual guitar strings packets. Jimi proceeded to write a wonderful message on the back of the string packet and It said: ‘To Anthea, love and kisses to you forever. I wish I could really talk to you. Stay sweet and signed it Jimi Hendrix’ It’s quite likely I sold Jimi Hendrix those strings?On October 23, 2017, The treasured autograph sold for £5,700 at Hansons Auctioneers in Derbyshire. The original estimate was £2,000-£3,000.Link to Hanson belowjimi Hendrix shock! Woman finds gift from rock legend in drawer at home – Hansons Auctioneershttps://hansonsauctioneers.co.uk/jimi-hendrix-shock…/In June 1967, I left Sound City and I went to work for Kassner Music Publishers and Its sister company called President Records, both based at 25 Denmark St London WC2.Next door at 26 Denmark St was a Cafe/Restaurant known as Julie’s Café/Restaurant. In 1967-1968. Jim Hendrix and his band used Julies Cafe/Restaurant regularly and not as its wrongly claimed in Wikipedia, the La Gioconda Restaurant & Coffee Bar, 9 Denmark. I know this because I used Julie’s every working day in 1967-1968. Jimi Hendrix and his band used to rehearse or record demo’s over the road from Julies at Regents Sound recording studio, 4 Denmark St. In the 1994, Julies Cafe/Restaurant much later became the 12 Bar Club and is now called The Lower ThirdFrom 1967-68 Jimi and Noel and Mitch, used to spend their day time in a pub called De Hems, a Dutch Cafe Bar, at 11 Macclesfield St London W1D 5BW, which was just up the road from the guitar shop Sound City, and just around the corner from their management office in Gerrard St.’ More about Gordon, Images used above and his story here
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Coldplay
From Intimate Camden Stages to Global StardomWe know Camden, has long been synonymous with musical greatness, serving as a launchpad for countless iconic bands. One of its most celebrated success stories is Coldplay, whose journey from small stages to international acclaim is deeply rooted in Camden’s rich musical heritage.By attending gigs in Camden, you’re immersing yourself in the very scene that nurtured bands like Coldplay, witnessing the potential stars of tomorrow!Coldplay’s connection to Camden began even before their rise to fame. Chris Martin and Jonny Buckland shared a flat at 268 Camden Road, where they often rehearsed with band friend Tim Crompton. This flat was a short walk from Camden Town, the epicenter of London’s indie music scene at the time. These early sessions laid the groundwork for the band’s unmistakable sound.Coldplay’s first-ever show under their new name took place at the Dublin Castle, one of Camden’s most iconic venues. This performance marked the beginning of their journey as the band we know today! Coldplay’s first concert as “Coldplay” took place at The Dublin Castle in Camden, London, on February 22, 1998. This historic performance marked a turning point for the band as they moved on from their original name, Starfish. The Dublin Castle, a legendary venue known for launching acts like Madness, Blur, and Amy Winehouse, played a crucial role in shaping the careers of countless artists, including Coldplay.The band’s set at The Dublin Castle was also where they first connected with sound engineer Dan Green, who would later become a key collaborator, mixing nearly all of their live shows and even co-producing albums with the group. At this intimate venue, Coldplay also dealt with logistical challenges common to up-and-coming bands, such as sharing equipment with other performers and other typical concert drama. Below a note that describes an argument between the promoter and other band playing on the night and how the band ended up stealing the drum kit. Bands – if you’re reading this and there are ever any disagreements during our CMDN gigs – please let’s just talk and don’t just steal any instruments, thank you.I suppose, these are also the experiences that highlight the grassroots spirit of Camden’s music scene and the resilience of artists starting their careers here. In addition to its role as Coldplay’s early proving ground, the Dublin Castle remains a symbol of Camden’s vibrant music history. Known for its tiny stage and lively atmosphere, the venue encapsulates the charm of Camden’s live music culture—a place where both artists and fans come together to create unforgettable moments.Interestingly, their very first gig occurred also in Camden, on January 16, 1998 at The Laurel Tree pub, a venue no longer active in the live music scene (since 2011 this has been a branch of Brew Dog). Despite being relative newcomers, the band managed to sell out the show, largely due to their efforts in persuading friends to attend—a testament to their early passion and determination. Before settling on the name Coldplay, the band briefly went by “Starfish”. The band members were Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, and Will Champion, who met at University College London. Back in May 1998, Coldplay performed at Dingwalls, another iconic club in Camden Lock that we love to use for our CMDN gigs! The audience was sparse, with attendees paying just £4 for entry (how much are Coldplay tickets now again?), making it an intimate experience for the few who witnessed the early stages of a band destined for global fame.Their breakthrough album, Parachutes (2000), catapulted them to fame, but it was their Camden performances that cemented their early reputation. Venues like The Dublin Castle and Dingwalls were crucial in the band’s rise, offering a space where their emotive performances resonated deeply with audiences. Camden’s welcoming atmosphere nurtured their creativity, setting the stage for their global successIn 2006, the band built their own studio, the Bakery, which Chris Martin described as a larger version of Jonny Buckland’s bedroom from their days at Camden Road. This studio became a creative haven, symbolising the enduring impact of Camden on their music.The borough’s legacy in Coldplay’s story was recently highlighted in the Disney+ documentary series Camden, where Chris Martin reflected on the area’s role in shaping the band. The series includes archival footage of Coldplay’s early performances, offering fans a glimpse into their roots in North London.In addition to their musical success, Coldplay have shown a commitment to giving back to the live music scene. The band donated 10% of proceeds from their Wembley and Hull shows to the Music Venue Trust, an organisation dedicated to preserving grassroots music venues across the UK, underscoring the importance of nurturing the very spaces that helped launch their career – pretty cool, huh?Why Camden MattersColdplay’s journey from Camden Road to global stardom highlights the borough’s unique ability to cultivate raw talent. By attending live gigs in Camden today, you’re supporting the next wave of musical legends and keeping this incredible tradition alive. Be part of the story—join the Camden experience and get tickets to our next gigs!If you were lucky enough to be part of any of Coldplay’s gigs in Camden – reach out, let me know if you have any interesting facts or cool additions to this blogpost, I’d love to hear about it!Rock on,NilaReferences:Disney+ Camden DocumentaryColdplay’s Early Performances at the Dublin CastleCamden’s Influence on Coldplay’s CareerMusic Venue Trust and Coldplay’s ContributionsThe live debut – Coldplay Timeline
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CMDN Presents: Hypnogator, Brūte, Easy On, Roko Mouth at The Dublin Castle – December 5th, 2024
If you’re craving an unforgettable night packed with high-energy rock, genre-defying sounds, and some of the most exciting up-and-coming bands on the UK scene, look no further than CMDN’s showcase at The Dublin Castle on December 5th. This legendary Camden venue will play host to a trio of bands that are currently shaking up London’s live music circuit — Hypnogator, Brūte, and Easy On. Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes each of these bands a must-see act and why this gig is one you definitely don’t want to miss.Get TicketsHypnogator: A Journey Through the “Cosmic Swamp”Hypnogator, hailing from South East London, is a psychedelic rock band that has been turning heads since they burst onto the scene at the end of lockdown. Blending heavy rock, prog, and garage elements, they describe their sound as a “journey through the Cosmic Swamp,” and it’s an apt metaphor for their mind-bending musical explorations. Hypnogator’s live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing, combining sprawling, fuzzed-out riffs with intricate rhythms that build an immersive atmosphere.Drawing inspiration from classic bands like Led Zeppelin but injecting modern twists of psychedelia, jazz, and funk, the band crafts a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Their debut album, Calm Before the Calm, established them as rising stars in the underground rock scene, while their latest release, Sounds of Green & Blue, pushes their creativity further, delving into deeper, more complex soundscapes. Their shows are renowned for their energy and intensity, with fans packing out venues like Camden Assembly and the O2 Academy Islington.For those who haven’t experienced Hypnogator live yet, this is your chance to dive into their world of cosmic riffs and rhythmic grooves. The band’s infectious stage presence and ability to take listeners on a musical journey make them a standout act in London’s crowded rock landscape.Links:Instagram Facebook Spotify YouTubeBrūte: Fuzz-Laden, Riff-Driven Rockers from SussexIf heavy riffs, fuzz-drenched guitars, and headbanging grooves are your thing, Brūte is the band for you. Hailing from Sussex, this four-piece has been making a name for themselves across London and the south coast with their raw, powerful sound. Fusing the relentless energy of grunge with the heavy, sludgy textures of stoner rock and doom, Brūte has cultivated a sound that is both crushing and infectious.Their explosive live performances have earned them a reputation for turning every show into a full-on rock spectacle. Whether they’re playing packed pubs or larger venues, Brūte never holds back, delivering a sonic onslaught that leaves audiences wanting more. With new material currently in the works, their set at The Dublin Castle is the perfect opportunity to catch them before they release their next big project.Fans of bands like Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss, and Soundgarden will find plenty to love in Brūte’s heavy grooves and commanding stage presence. If you’re looking to be blown away by raw power and riff-heavy rock, make sure you’re front and center for their set.Links:Instagram Spotify YouTube – ‘Hammer Home’Easy On: Modern Rock with Melodic FinesseFormed in the bustling music scene of London in 2021, Easy On is a dynamic three-piece band that’s rapidly gaining momentum for their unique blend of raw energy and melodic rock. Despite their relatively recent formation, Easy On has already built a solid reputation for their electrifying live shows and tight musicianship, honed through countless hours of relentless rehearsals.Taking inspiration from a wide range of rock icons, their music channels the spirit of classic rock bands while injecting a modern edge. With gritty lyrics, driving rhythms, and soaring guitar solos, Easy On captivates audiences from the first note to the last. Their chemistry on stage is palpable, a testament to the band’s dedication to their craft and their passion for performing.The band’s live sets are all about bringing people together for an unforgettable rock experience. Whether you’re a fan of Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys, or just looking for something fresh, Easy On’s performance at The Dublin Castle promises to be a highlight of the night.Links:InstagramRoko Mouth Band: Redefining Alt-Rock and R&BRoko Mouth Band delivers a bold fusion of alt-rock and hardcore R&B straight from the heart of Manchester. With their raw energy and genre-blending sound, they’re redefining the boundaries of modern music.Links:Instagram SpotifyGet TicketsWhy You Can’t Miss This Night at The Dublin CastleThe Dublin Castle has long been a staple of London’s live music scene, known for showcasing the best up-and-coming talent before they break out on the world stage. The CMDN Presents showcase on December 5th is set to be an unforgettable night, packed with diverse sounds, high energy, and a shared love for rock music in one of Camden’s most iconic venues.This lineup of Hypnogator, Brūte, and Easy On brings together a variety of rock influences, from psychedelic and prog to grunge and stoner rock. Whether you’re in the mood for cosmic journeys, riff-heavy grooves, or melodic anthems, this night has something for everyone.So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to be part of a night that celebrates the best of London’s underground rock scene. Let’s keep the spirit of live music alive and thriving!Event Details:Date: Thursday, December 5th, 2024Venue: The Dublin Castle, Camden NW1 7ANDoors Open: 19:00Tickets: Get Your Tickets HereDon’t wait—secure your spot now and join us for a night that promises to be nothing short of legendary!
DISCOVER MUSIC YOU NEED TO HEAR
CMDN's favourites
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Black Doldrums
INTENSE AMBIENT POST-PUNK“A MIX OF GOTHIC-ROCK AND SHOEGAZE SOUNDS TO DIE FOR” – ROLLING STONE“A FIERCE COMBINATION OF POST-PUNK, REVERB, DRONE AND MELODY” – UNCUT“YOUTHFUL AND AMBITIOUS CONTEMPORARY ROCK ‘N’ ROLL ” – SHINDIG!“AWE -INSPIRING… BLACK DOLDRUMS CREATE TRANSIENT AND EUPHORIC DARK POST-PUNK. ” – LOUDER THAN WAR Kevin Gibbard and Sophie Landers produce a contemporary form of gothic post-punk under the name Black Doldrums. Their songs contain hook and lead tribal drums and euphoric guitar textures that frame lyrics about purpose and introspection. The duo have been building up a devout following since their self-released ep on a limited number of cassettes ‘Exit City Lights’ before their first official signing to indie label Club AC30 in 2018, releasing two sold out vinyl ep’s in 2018 and 2019, ‘Sad Paradise’ and She ‘Divine’. In 2020, Black Doldrums collaborated with Jared Artaud, producing their debut album with grammy award winner Ted Young. In March 2021, Black Doldrums signed to Fuzz Club who released the band’s debut album ‘Dead Awake’ on 11th March 2022, gaining critical acclaim across mainstream media outlets. In September 2022, Black Doldrums collaborated with THE KVB who remixed ‘Dreamcatcher’ the third single from Dead Awake.
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Read moreDirty Sound Magnet
Experience the Shamanic Energy of Dirty Sound Magnet’s Psychedelic Rock Live in London! Get ready, London!The Swiss rock revolutionaries Dirty Sound Magnet are heading your way, and they’re bringing their electrifying new album “Dreaming In Dystopia,” which came out in 2023, with them. This is your chance to witness a band that’s redefining modern rock music. Every now and then, a band comes along that shakes up the musical landscape, bringing a much-needed breath of fresh air amid the mediocrity. Dirty Sound Magnet is that band, injecting new life into the scene and breaking away from the repetitive formulas that often dominate the industry.Their ethereal and shamanic alternative rock is a visual and auditory journey, summoning apparitions of long-distant landscapes and strangely familiar yet completely foreign galaxies. It’s mind-expanding music that transports the listener, reminiscent of the transformative experiences Stavros and his bandmates had while discovering the legendary albums of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Frank Zappa as teenagers. Upcoming Gig Date:London: 25/09/24 @DINGWALLS, CamdenGet your tickets now and prepare for an unforgettable night with Dirty Sound Magnet!For fans of Led Zeppelin and King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Dirty Sound Magnet is the perfect band to add to your playlist. Their unique sound blends rockstar charisma with psychedelic brilliance, creating a musical experience like no other. Formed in 2008, Dirty Sound Magnet had a creative rebirth in 2016, carving out a unique sound that’s as innovative as it is exhilarating. Their music defies categorization, blending rockstar charisma with poetic depth and dynamic freedom. They channel otherworldly escapism and socio-political commentary into a mind-expanding, life-affirming mix of noise.Their new album, “Dreaming In Dystopia”, is their most expansive and visual release yet. Featuring tracks like “Melodies From Distant Shores,” “Utopia,” “Insomnia,” and “Lonely Bird,” the album takes listeners on an epic journey through changing landscapes and the human condition. The title track pairs glitchy, seasick guitars with earworm melodies, reminiscent of Supergrass in their prime. It’s a profound introspection and intense reflection on the world, delivered through kaleidoscopic soundscapes.And for those who crave the live experience, Dirty Sound Magnet just released a live version of “Body in Mind” recorded in Montreux. This 21-minute epic (originally 6 minutes on the album) showcases the band’s improvisational brilliance and is a testament to their live performance magic. The supernatural light show that accompanies their concerts adds a stunning visual contrast to their music. Don’t miss your chance to see Dirty Sound Magnet live in London! Their shows are a mesmerising blend of musical alchemy and visual spectacle that will transport you to another dimension. Tickets are on sale now, so grab yours and be part of the rock revolution!Upcoming Gig Date:London: 25/09/24 @DINGWALLS, CamdenGet your tickets now and prepare for an unforgettable night with Dirty Sound Magnet!Dirty Sound Magnet – BiographyBy Amit SharmaEvery now and then a band comes along that completely changes the musical landscape around them. Their arrival usually signals the changing of the tide, a much-needed breath of fresh air from the mundane mediocrity that often follows waves of innovation. It doesn’t matter how hungry the world appears for content, tried and tested formulas can easily render creativity stagnant. There comes a point where everything starts to sound the same…For modern rock music, the band we need right now is Swiss trio Dirty Sound Magnet – who will be unveiling their fourth studio album Dreaming In Dystopia through Wild Thing Records later this year. The group formed in 2008 and after a creative rebirth in 2016, have found the formula for their own brand of psychedelic rock that’s proudly presented itself in the winning streak of noise that’s followed ever since. Fusing elements of Led Zeppelin, Queens Of The Stone Age and King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard through their own lysergic lens, they’re a band who simply refuse to be pigeonholed and obediently fit into any given category. As anyone who has seen them live will happily tell you, their musical alchemy is every bit as defiant as it is brilliant, cross-pollinating rockstar charisma with poetic prudence and dynamic freedom. Drawing upon elements of otherworldly escapism, socio-political commentary and thrilling unpredictability, and twisting it all into a cerebral mix of life-affirming noise, you very much get the feeling that their art belongs to them and them alone. They do precisely as they please, as all true artists should.2017’s Western Lies signalled their arrival, with modern masterpieces like The Sophisticated Dark Ages, Ecstasy Of God and Homo Economicus heralding why this band were destined for great things. 2019’s Transgenic demonstrated how the trio were unafraid of evolution and embracing the idea of allowing their sound to mature and mutate in new and unexpected ways, particularly on tracks like Skull Drawing Rose and Organic Sacrifice. Live Alert, recorded and filmed in one day in their rehearsal room, followed in 2020 and two years later arrived its successor, third full-length DSM-III. Tracks like Body In Mind, Meet The Shaman and Mr. Robert were delivered in a way that captured their essence better than ever before, documenting the chemistry between singer/guitarist Stavros Dzodzos, bassist Marco Mottolini and drummer Maxime Cosandey more vividly and colourfully than any album before it, benefitting from a production that matched the music in terms of sheer brazen ambition…“We restarted the band in 2016 and found our true calling,” says Stavros, speaking from the band’s HQ in Western Switzerland. “It felt like a lot of the rock music we heard was very repetitive. We didn’t fit into any scene, partly because there wasn’t one around us with the same passion or stylistic attitude. We just felt alien.”As he explains, there was no musical movement for the band to latch onto or learn from. Stavros notes how a lack of rock culture native to Switzerland has encouraged little industry infrastructure to help turn their passion into a career. Even finding shows to play, he shrugs, has been hard work and “felt impossible at times, like we were on an island and all we had was our dreams”. This is a band who by their own admission had to work 10 times harder than acts from other parts of Europe, the UK and America in order to succeed. So naturally, that’s precisely what they did…“We’d lock ourselves in a rehearsal room, playing music all day every day until we felt like it worked,” grins Stavros, with a rebellious glint in his eye. “That ended up being a blessing – it’s what makes this band special. We found our style by staying authentic and trying not to replicate things that were happening elsewhere. We wanted to express who we are as human beings, not what was popular at the time.”As he admits, in hindsight, it was all for the best. The three members of Dirty Sound Magnet had no choice but to focus on what mattered most of all – the music and the message behind it. “A lot of the heavier rock and metal was more about drinking beer and having a good time using loud amps rather than anything deeper,” he continues. “We’re a very spiritual band. The first time I heard Led Zeppelin, I thought it was music made by the gods. Then I saw the pictures and was almost disappointed, because I suddenly saw them as human. But it’s that quality we wanted to keep – the idea that our music has to always be mystical. Even in the rehearsal room, just the three of us jamming, we have to express something unusual or unreal, something that goes beyond the obvious and expected.”Which explains why their ethereal and shamanic alternative rock is so visually evocative, summoning apparitions of long-distant landscapes and strangely familiar but also completely foreign galaxies. It’s mind-expanding music that has the ability to transport the listener, much like those Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Frank Zappa albums did to Stavros and his bandmates when they were learning about life as teenagers themselves… “Our jams would take us into the desert or place us in front of an army of thousands,” he continues. “There would always be this sense of a story. Everything has to have a profound meaning. There’s a link between the three of us, to the point where I will compose the music and lyrics and we’re never in disagreement about what to do or how we sound, because we’re so close to each other. Whenever someone discovers a band, we all listen together. We spend every day together. This is almost more than just a band… we think alike.”It would be fair to say it’s this year’s fourth studio album, titled Dreaming In Dystopia, that sits as their most wonderfully expansive and wildly visual release to date, with songs like Melodies From Distant Shores, Utopia, Insomnia and Lonely Bird taking listeners on the group’s greatest voyage yet. It’s an album that sees them examining just how much the world has changed around them, while also contemplating how certain things have stayed the same – starting with their almost religious dedication to self-expression and elevation through music. This time round, they’re widening their channels of creativity and digging even further into the DNA of their hearts and minds…And make no mistake, this is the best music they’re written to date. Melodies From Distant Shores is like a lullaby from the Middle East, Stavros using his celestial vibrato-modulated electric guitars to deep-dive into the creative unknown. The title track Dreaming in Dystopia pairs more glitchy and seasick guitars against earworm melodies which softly caress the psyche in ways no other band are doing right now, going from as quiet as a whisper to loud and proud, at times reminiscent of Supergrass in their very prime. Those wondrous warbles continue through tracks like Lonely Bird and Lost My Mind, mesmerising and hypnotising at every turn in their observations of the human condition. It’s music for intense reflection and profound introspection, inviting its audience to search deep within themselves just as its authors did to create the wishy-washy seabed of kaleidoscopic noise. The music is in constant motion and the band breaks new ground with every track. Utopia explores new landscapes and introduces colours and textures reminiscent of the best Western Spaghetti soundtracks. And after having explored the four corners of the World, Dirty Sound Magnet chose outer space as the setting for the Grand Finale. The expansive album closer Insomnia transcends all musical boundaries and showcases the band in their most epic form.The next 18 months or so will be a very busy period for Dirty Sound Magnet, starting with a host of summer festival dates and then more touring across Europe and the UK, as well as a trio of singles (Melodies From Different Shores, Insomnia and Lonely Bird) in the run up to the album release on October 20. Next year will commence with more European dates, some shows in Mexico and a strong possibility of a US tour. For a band who have done 600 shows or thereabouts in their career so far, it’s just a case of build, build, build.Upcoming Gig Date:London: 25/09/24 @DINGWALLS, CamdenGet your tickets now and prepare for an unforgettable night with Dirty Sound Magnet!DIRTY SOUND MAGNET – Lineup Stavros Dzodzos – Guitar / VocalsMarco Mottolini – Bass / Backing VocalsMaxime Cosandey – Drums / Backing Vocals / Special EffectsDIRTY SOUND MAGNET – DiscographyDSM III (2022)Live Alert (2020)Transgenic (2019)Western Lies (2017)DIRTY SOUND MAGNET – OnlineLinktree: linktr.ee/dirtysoundmagnetWebsite: dirtysoundmagnet.comFacebook: facebook.com/dirtysoundmagnetInstagram: instagram.com/dirtysoundmagnetTwitter: twitter.com/DSMBandSpotify: DSMSpotifyYouTube: DirtySoundMagnetYT
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Read moreAmann & the Wayward Sons
AMANN & THE WAYWARD SONS is a blues rock band, founded in Bilbao, Spain, by songwriter and guitar player Pablo Amann (Slocum) in 2016.In February 2018 it was released their first album called FREE SOUL, mixed and mastered at Abbey Road (UK), featuring great Spanish keyboard player Julian Maeso, on the Hammond, by courtesy of SONY MUSIC. The album was blessed with amazing reviews among the Spanish Media and in December 2018, after concluding a nation wide tour, the band locked up in Tio Pete Studios (Bilbao) to record, in the old style all at once, their second album, called DRIVE HOME.The echoes of their powerful live shows, led them in June 2019, to play at the prestigious BBK LEGENDS FESTIVAL, in Bilbao, amongst such big artists as BEN KARPER, THE BEACH BOYS, SUZANNE VEGA, PAUL COLLINS, WATER MELON SLIM or LITTLE STEVEN to name only some.The meteoric rise of the band was brought to a halt in March 2020, due to the COVID pandemic, just after being the second most voted band in the National Rock Band Contest by AZKENA ROCK FESTIVAL and after playing for the finals at the WURLITZER BALLROOM in Madrid.During the confinement Pablo Amann continued writing songs, and the the third studio album HYMNS OF HOPE AND RAGE was released on January 2022, after a number of singles deliveries during 2021. FEEL IT IN MY BONES, the first one had to be recorded individually by every musician at his home due to the lock down requirements, and happened to be a mile stone in the sound of the band and caused great international recognition. Then came UNDER POURING RAIN, and ONCE I´M GONE, a tribute to all the loved ones lost during the pandemic. It features Gospel artists Maria Ayo, Debby Ayo, Martha Ramos and Gigi Pezzarossi from Madrid and Phil Wilkinson from the UK on the keyboard.Since the Spring of 2022, the band resume touring Spain, visiting many of the most important stages, venues and festivals, such as CAZORLA BLUES FESTIVAL where they shared line up with ERIC GALES, SAMANTHA FISH or RICK ESTRIN, to name just a few.Their fourth studio album, WHEN THE DAY GOES SLOW, will be released on March 1st on all major platforms, and has been produced by Emi Barés, and recorded at EL SUBMARINO RECORDS (Bilbao), after a successful crowdfunding campaign, with massive support from the fans, with singles WHERE HAVE THE GOOD PEOPLE GONE, I HAVE TO CHANGE TO STAY THE SAME, WHEN THE DAY GOES SLOW and RUMBLE already delivered. The album will be released by February/March 2024.The sound of AMANN & THE WAYWARD SONS mainly influenced by the sounds of the South of the US (blues, soul, roots and southern rock) is enjoying an increasing appreciation in Europe, and also on the other side of the pond, from Canada to Brazil. For this reason the band is working on their first International Tour to take place during 2024.
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Read moreSoap Girls
“Unique, raw, catchy, anarchistic Rock and Roll.““If being controversial means being consummate professionals, playing great original songs to an appreciative engaged audience and treating everyone with respect then The Soap Girls must be at the front of the pack.”–Devolution MagazineThe Soap Girls write outsider anthems with grungy punk pop infused guitars overlaid with harmonic vocals and huge melodious overtones and metal growls that are androgynous, audacious and straight from the heart. Their music is a brand of storytelling with a strong message behind each track. They use their platform to address issues that are close to heart and are an inspiration to both old and young. Their work ethic and kindled passion and love for performing has had them been named as a band to watch out for by music critics around the globe.The French born sisters from Cape Town, are often described as the world’s hardest working duo even during lockdown they never stopped performing over 400 livestreams with varied theme nights and dark humour. Armed with unforgettable melodies and catchy choruses, their energy, rawness and authenticity live, has earned the made served formidable reputation. Touring continuously since 2015 The fearless sister, have an impressive ever growing global dedicated base of followers known as the ‘TheSoap Suds’. Guitarist/vocalist Noemie sets the pace beautifully as she powers through each song with a certain style and grace and guitar riffs that captivate every audience. Her vocals have been likened to an early Blondie. Drawing musical influences from Fleetwood Mac, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Heart, Nirvana, The Butthole Surfers and R.E.M her preferred style of music being more melodic.Bassplayer/Vocalist Camille is a on stage force to be-reckoned with encompassing a unique bass technique with contortioning that you would rarely see in a live rock performance whilst never missing a note coupled with an insane vocal range often likened to Brodie Dalle, Tina Turner and Randy Bly the from her angelic notes to metal growls that will leave you disturbed Mille is undoubtedly a force on her own terms. Being a fan of heavier music from acts like Alice in Chains, Marilyn Manson, The Smashing Pumpkins, Korn, Alanis Morrissette, Hole, Nirvana, Napalm Death and L7. Which is evident in her furiously energetic performance as she connects and shocks the crowd. Both sisters although complete opposites blend vocally and musically in a way that only siblings could and their live performance are delivered with a ruthless unmatched energy that is rare to find. Their harmonies are another aspect that sets them apart from other bands. On stage and live is where The Soap Girls are truly at the top of their game and watching them live is an unforgettable experience which has fans coming back for more.Already as children, the fearless siblings Camille and Noémie Debray became an international attraction as street performers singing and selling homemade soaps to tourists in order to donate the proceeds to hospitals – so the public gave the well-known lively, nonchalant young ladies the name “The Soap Girls”.It is here really where the roots of their journey and their approach to their music and fans gave birth to them as rockstars. They stand strong in their belief of the right of individuals to have self expression. As teenagers, they stormed #1 on the album charts in South Africa with dance-pop and theirDebut album. In the same year, they placed all four single releases from the album in the top ten of the single charts. Despite their youth, they quickly realized that success comes at a price. The mechanisms and soulless marketing machinery of their major label Universal were against them.From then on, The Soap Girls decided not to compromise on their songs and their live performance. They left the safe haven of chart success, ended their collaboration with Universal, and followed their hearts. Their passion was and is rock’n’roll–they celebrate true freedom, freedom of movement and authenticity paired with a provocative honesty that is second to none. Social commitment and a good portion of punk attitude remain the basic attributes of The Soap Girls. After their break in style, the musical cornerstones are alternative rock, grunge and glam paired with catchy melodies, great guitar riffs and choruses. Some skillful excursions into the metal genre roundoff their spectrum.
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Read more
Dubinski
Dubinski, comprising four inseparable siblings—Eugene, Fergus, Donal, and Eoin Gaine—originally hail from the remote green hills of North Yorkshire. Their childhood in atmospheric isolation fostered a deep love of music, leading them to spend their adolescent years writing and performing songs. The brothers later moved to Edinburgh to pursue music professionally, adopting the band name Dubinski in honor of their late mother’s maiden name. They recorded their debut album at RAK Studios in London with Grammy Award-winning producers Mike Horner and Robbie Nelson. Following the worldwide release of their eponymous album through Gnu Roam (Kartel Music Group), Dubinski embarked on international tours and are now gearing up for the release of their sophomore album in early 2025. Join us on 1st November 2024 at Dublin Castle for an unforgettable night as Edinburgh’s Dubinski headline the show! Experience their high-energy performance along with support from Teddy Clarke and Parlay.📅 Date: 1st November 2024📍 Venue: Dublin Castle🎤 Headliner: Dubinski🎸 Support Acts: Teddy Clarke, ParlayGet Tickets hereMeet Dubinski during our interview!1) How did you get into music?As we’re a band of 4 brothers we grew up in a very musical family and our parents were always taking us to music sessions when we were kids. Our older 2 brothers also played a lot so they influenced us very early on. When we were young we moved to a remote farm house together where our musicality blossomed.2) What bands inspired your style and how do you differ to your roots?We like a lot of the old classics like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana but like a lot of modern indie too such as the Cribs, the maccabees. It feels like although we’re an indie band we like to dip our toes in other genres.3) What would you say thrills your soul?Writing a banging tune and knowing it’s dam good and walking about with it in your back pocket before anyone else has heard it. I’m invincible in that moment4) If you were to get stuck on a lonely Island, which would be the 3 albums you’ll take with you?Pink Floyd – Dark Side Of The MoonDr dog – be the voidLeft field- leftism5) Beatles Vs Stones?Beatles6) Do you believe in aliens?Yes, I think it would be ignorant not to believe in some other form of life. Stay in touch and support Dubinski’s music!🔗 Links:Website Spotify Instagram TikTok Facebook Twitter YouTube SoundCloud
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Read moreThe Flitz
Heads up – indie rock fans:The Flitz are set to bring their explosive sound to Camden Assembly on October 11th, and this is one show you don’t want to miss!Known for their vibrant, high-energy performances, this headline show promises to be an electrifying evening, showcasing the raw talent and infectious energy of this rising star in the indie rock scene! Meet The FlitzStraight out of the gritty streets of West London, The Flitz are a four-piece band that’s been making waves with their unique blend of Britpop melodies and thumping drum and bass grooves.These guys are not just riding the wave of indie rock; they’re shaping it. With influences ranging from LCD Soundsystem to Bloc Party and Babyshambles, their music is a fresh take on the classic indie sound, perfect for anyone looking to relive the golden era of indie sleaze or discover something new.The Flitz are here to soundtrack your nights out! GET TICKETS HEREWhat to Expect at the ShowThe Flitz are known for their live performances that are as rowdy as they are melodic. Expect anthemic riffs, punchy rhythms, and a stage presence that’s both raw and infectious. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, their mix of classic 90s indie and modern guitar pop is sure to get you moving.Pre-Gig Meetup: Make New FriendsWe’re not just about the music – we’re about the community. Before the show kicks off, join us at 19:00 at the Camden Assembly pub for a pre-gig meetup. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet fellow fans, make new friends, and gear up for the night ahead. To join the meetup, DM us and sign up for our WhatsApp channel where you’ll get all the updates and details.Grab Your Tickets Now!You don’t want to miss out on this night of incredible music and good vibes. Secure your spot and get ready to rock out with The Flitz at Camden Assembly.GET TICKETS HEREStay Connected with The FlitzStay in the loop and follow The Flitz on their journey. Check out their music, videos, and updates through the links below:Links Page Apple Music Spotify YouTube TikTok Instagram Facebook X (Twitter)Mark your calendars for October 11th and join us for a night of indie rock brilliance with The Flitz at Camden Assembly.See you there!
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Read moreGeneration
Cladded in leather, lace & liquor, Generation is every parent’s worst nightmare. Known more for their larger-than-life personas than for their scarce release history, it’s safe to say that Generation are a band who don’t do half-measures. Hattie, James & Dean hail from the north of England, but it was in the dingy venues of Camden Town that they made a name for themselves as a band “you have to see live”. Combining the raw spirit of rock & roll with anthemic hooks and modern production, Generation are creating a niche all of their own. After a month in LA, 2024 promises exciting things for Generation, including new music. Check out their socials here: Instagram – Spotify – Youtube Wanna experience Generation live?Save the date for their headline gig with us on April 27th at Camden Assembly – get tickets now, before it sells out!
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Read moreFreya Beer
“Freya Beer is the future pop diva, the 21st-century post-punk torch singer you will all fall in love with.” – John Robb, Louder Than War“Freya Beer is the newest leader of the dark goth pack” – Manchester’s Finest“A voice as haunting and stunning as Lana Del Rey’s is, she is an incredible package stood before you” – RGM Magazine“Upcoming Gothic-Disco Queen” Hailed as ‘a raw and thrilling new talent’, Freya Beer is a singer-songwriter from West London. Inspired by art and literature, alternative fashion and music. Freya distills her disparate influences through a gothic soul and devil-may-care spirit that dares to dream in the darkness.Freya released her debut album ‘Beast’ in October 2021 to splendid reviews and great public acclaim.Freya sparked a wave of attention from the get-go with her self-released debut single ‘Bike Boy’ in 2018 and its immediate follow-up ‘Six Months’. They earned Freya a BBC Introducing Live Lounge Session and a feature on Tom Robinson’s BBC Radio 6 Music show, and so the roller coaster began.With the wind in her sails, Freya launched her own label Sisterhood Records in 2019 as a vehicle to further her creativity. In February 2020, she released the single ‘Dear Sweet Rosie’, recorded in Manchester with accompaniment from I Am Kloot’s Andy Hargreaves on sonic drums. Drawing on literary influences like Allen Ginsberg’s ‘An Asphodel’ and Anna Sewell’s ‘Black Beauty’, the track went on to receive incredible support from BBC 6 Music and many rave reviews. Marc Riley awarded Freya a live session on his BBC 6 Music Show (which was then highlighted as one of his “Best of the Year” in December), and has continued to champion her brilliance. Renowned music critic John Robb hailed her as ‘New Artist of the Day’ on his Louder Than War site and predicted a Mercury Prize in years to come.Revealing her many shades with a series of exquisite lockdown cover versions, Freya bookended 2020 with the critically acclaimed single ‘Arms Open Wide’. Loosely inspired by the chilling atmospheres of Tubular Bells, the track saw Freya earn further support at BBC6 Music and PRS for Music placed the single in their Top 20 songs of 2020.‘Siren’ came next in early 2021. An intoxicating brew of lyrical in-cantations and artful mystique, paired with arrangements of a piercing intensity. Taking its title from the J.W. Waterhouse masterpiece ‘The Siren’, Freya’s single finds her unearthing new secrets in those channels of renaissance art and mythology while re-appropriating the feathered flare of 70s era glam in her own shadow. She quickly followed ‘Siren’ with the mighty ‘The Calm Before The Storm’, a mass of grunge guitars and Owain Hanford’s thrashing drums.Discovering new audiences and in-turn more about herself as an artist throughout the year, these creative experiences provided a powerful stimulus in recording her debut album: ‘Beast’. Recorded in London and Manchester, the 11 track album was released in October 2021 to unanimous fanfare, on Sisterhood Records. The title track ‘Beast’ was released as the final single from the album, which includes the 5 singles and 6 other previously unreleased tracks including, the mesmerising crowd favourite ‘To The Heavens and all its Work’ and the very different ‘Pure’.To coincide with the album release, Freya undertook her first full UK tour, backed by her superb band, featuring Pete Hobbs (the Boy Least Likely To ) on guitar. Pete also produced most of the ‘Beast’ album, Owain Hanford on drums and Arnoldas Daunys on bass. Freya herself excels on guitar and vocals. The 12 dates included packed shows in London, Manchester, Bristol, Brighton, Birmingham, and Glasgow.Freya soon introduced two superb gothic disco tracks that would look good on any dance floor. The sensational and totally original ‘Love Child’ which incorporated strings alongside Freya’s art and the dancefloor classic duet with Tom Saint, ‘Honeymoon Eyes’.Freya released two brand new singles a few weeks apart in April 2023, ‘Fantasy’ and ‘Galore’alongside a short UK tour. She played a key Friday slot at Latitude Festival in July 2023 togreat acclaim and has regularly been playing headline shows at key London venues, such asthe Old Blue Last and Colors in Hoxton. Ever building up her following in her home city.Most recently Freya made her debut across the pond in New York City where she played a full band headline show at Pete’s Candy Store as well as had an exclusive straight-to-vinyl live recording session at Leesta Vall Sound Recordings in Brooklyn. Soon after her US debut, she went headed on tour as a support for Honeyblood playing 3 shows across the country, alongside an exclusive show for Dr Marten’s Annual Conference held in London.Freya has collaborated with a number of major household names such as Dr Martens, Killstar, and LA based skincare brand Youth To The People as well as teaming up with upcoming rum company, 8Track Rum. Manchester’s Finest stapled Freya as “the newest leader of the dark goth pack” and so did Time Out London when they got in contact with Freya to be featured in their Halloween October issue which celebrated the resurgence of Goth culture. New tracks are being recorded in West London and set to be released in the new year alongside headline shows across the country. PRESS TRIBUTES FOR FANTASY/GALORE“A goth-rock ballad spun through webs of swaggering feedback-scarred guitars, brooding synthesiser blossomings, and devilish vocal acrobatics destined to leave you breathless” – Soundsphere Magazine“true rock’n’roll flair while the crowd looking on in raptures” – Listen With Monger“The two tracks are a study in contrasts, showcasing the breadth of Freya’s artistic abilities.” – Eat This Music“Crooning guitar work blended over soft melodies of great lyrical presentation bode an incredibly well-polished canvas of individualistic sound, complimented by facets of multi decade additions. It is, by definition the addendum to a successfully executed album – and we want more.” – Stanis Island Socials:Facebook: facebook.com/freyabeerofficialTwitter: @freyabeerInstagram: @freya_beerSpotify: Freya BeerWebsite:freyabeer.com
LIVE FROM OUR CMDN SHOWS!
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Jan 5th Show @Dublin Castle
Photographer - Shark Room Productions
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Jan 5th Show @Dublin Castle
Photographer - Shark Room Productions
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Jan 5th Show @Dublin Castle
Photographer - Shark Room Productions
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Jan 5th Show @Dublin Castle
Photographer - Shark Room Productions
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