Jo Makabayi takes a look at some of the freshest local bands and musicians who you should be keeping an eye on and an ear out for in 2023.
Bill Nickson
Bill Nickson is a young lo-fi musician from the Merseyside music scene who had a busy 2022 touring around Liverpool with his live band, bringing the electricity to his soft, playful, bedroom pop sound. His latest EP release Thoughts on Love, beholds a Daniel Johnston-esque cover art and captures this momentary nostalgia at just under 14 minutes.
His songs would attract fans of Car Seat Headrest and Bright Eyes. He shows no sign of slowing down in 2023 with gig announcements already in place, they are not to be missed!
Follow Bill Nickson on Instagram.
Black Borough
This electric supergroup emerging from South Liverpool released their anticipated, self-titled EP late 2022.
The four tracks explore themes of identity, coming of age and authenticity in the industry. The EP opens with Welcome to my City, a strong bassline is heard throughout the tune, channeling rudimentary 90’s hip hop with an experimental twist. The introductory track discusses the reality of growing up black in Merseyside.
From the chill, jazz rap in Lying Rappers with a hook, “0151 no lies, one love” reiterating the Liverpool pride; To a Neo-Soul type groove similar to Erykah Badu in the penultimate track Numbers Game. With references to artists such as Steve Lacy and Paul McCartney, Black Borough’s music is relevant to all generations of listeners.
The exploration of sound that takes place over the four tracks manages to portray exactly what Black Borough are aiming to achieve. It’s evident that this group will have some exciting plans in 2023 as they put Liverpool’s hip/hop scene on the map.
Follow Black Borough on Instagram.
Samya O’Grady
Samya is a Liverpool-based musician, whose voice encapsulates the calm sway of a spring day. Her most recent single Flower Bed incorporates a swift bass that carries the song with its smooth jazz tone. It’s no doubt that the singer will have an active year of performances across Liverpool venues attracting fans who enjoy the likes of Joni Mitchell and The Velvet Underground.
Samya has a range of singles including a few soft French pieces; The song L’amour – an airy acoustic-led tune holding great intimacy. The artist is also a youth worker at the youth music project Capeesh, where she participates in charity performances. Already with an arsenal of songs out, Samya is certainly going to unveil some sensational work this year.
Follow Samya O’Grady on Instagram.
Project Nevada
This five-piece band are young but manage to deliver electricity and heaviness to the Liverpool indie scene. Their latest EP Alterations to My Age closes on the track 19/18, a ballad that takes on the quiet/loud approach with soft spoken vocals over the subtle electric guitar and light synths. All rounded up in the last two minutes of the song as the drums come crashing and the instruments play out. The sound is reminiscent of the likes of The 1975 and The Kooks.
The group have toured through the local venues in Liverpool to the venues in Glasgow, with many more dates booked in the new year. It is an exhilarating experience to see them perform live – allow yourself to be immersed in the sonics of Project Nevada.
Follow Project Nevada on Instagram.
Jo Makayabi
