Say it with me: “I will get out to see some live music after all this!”

Right, you lot, here’s some inspiration if you’re in the Leeds area/the north and need to know which artists are set to put on the hottest gigs later this year/2021.

The Chats

Now then, these young, mischievous Aussie boys know a thing or two about punk rock. And good news: they’re coming all the way from Queensland for a lively night in Leeds.

Listen to: ‘Identity Theft’

Kojey Radical

Oh man, it’s hard to express how gutted I was that March promised a Kojey Radical gig but didn’t deliver. Thankfully, I’ll be seeing this upcoming rapper later in the year.

Listen to: ‘Feel About It’

The Snuts

Feel-good melodies, indie beats and songs you can sing along to — that’s about the size of it from The Snuts. This no-frills band need to be on your radar ASAP.

Listen to: ‘Fatboy Slim’

Caribou

I was completely and utterly sold after first hearing ‘Kaili’. But Caribou’s latest album has shone with ‘You and I’ and ‘Never Come Back’, which will be bangers at the Brude, I’m sure.

Listen to: ‘Home’

Thundercat

To coincide with his latest album drop, Thundercat is due to be on the road this autumn. He’ll be taking his smooth and soulful tones over to Manchester, all being well.

Listen to: ‘Show You The Way (ft. Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins)’

Ross from Friends

One of Flume’s Warehouse Project supports from last year, Ross from Friends (and no, not David Schwimmer), is tipped to grace Belgrave with some dreamy electronics.

Listen to: ‘Talk to Me You’ll Understand’

Fudge.

This won’t be the first time you’ve seen me recommend Fudge., and it won’t be the last. These legends will be showcasing their raucous riffs and high energy at Live at Leeds.

Listen to: ‘Not a Threat, Just a Warning.’

Greentea Peng

A neo-soul singer-songwriter who’s a measure of Miss Dynamite, a dash of M.I.A and a spoonful of Lily Allen? Yep, I’m absolutely available for that.

Listen to: ‘Downers’

Marsicans

I had the pleasure of seeing Marsicans last year. They were uptempo, fun and so indie it hurt. But they’re making waves now, so I’d get them on your list pronto.

Listen to: ‘Too Good’

The Pale White

This indie-rock outfit is another on the billing for Live at Leeds 2020. They’re angsty and feisty, so I’m looking forward to hearing what I hope is a thrashy set in November.

Listen to: ‘Swim For Your Life’

With so many rescheduled dates and the current pandemic situation still being very uncertain, keep an eye on Facebook and Dice for more info about these artists’ gigs.