Music
Discover Liverpool’s thriving music scene, from grassroots local talent to major touring artists performing unforgettable live gigs across the city.
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Live Review: James Arthur at M&S Arena
A far cry from his X-Factor beginnings, James Arthur packed the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool on Valentine’s Day with a sold-out show full of thousands of adoring fans. The energy from the crowd was consistently high, helped along by the nostalgic tunes and remixes of DJ Imbo – sporting some Arthur merch – with classics such as Call Me Maybe and Timber. There was even a little extra entertainment from some enthusiastic members of…
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“We Turned Our Backs on the Industry” — Inside The Enemy’s Return
Tom Clarke states The Enemy have fallen in love with music again after turning their backs on the industry completely at one stage. The Coventry band enjoyed success in the 00s on the back of the release of their debut record We’ll Live and Die In These Towns, but struggles behind-the-scenes ultimately took its toll. A year after their fourth studio album It’s Automatic in 2015, the three-piece called time on their journey. Over the…
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Neil Campbell Unites Six Years of Work on New Double Album ‘Diagonals’
Acoustic form, visual thinking and collaborative continuity shape a new double album release from Liverpool’s world-class guitarist. Neil Campbell’s Diagonals: An Anthology (2020–2026) arrives as a quietly assured statement of intent — a double album that resists the pull of immediacy in favour of patience, form and long-view listening. Released Friday 6 March 2026, Diagonals gathers together four short-form releases issued between 2020 and 2026 and presents them, for the first time, as a unified…
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Preview: Liverpool International Jazz Festival 2026
Liverpool International Jazz festival – Crossing borders with Jazz without boundaries. Liverpool’s relationship with jazz runs deep. Long before the Merseybeat explosion, the city was one of the first UK ports to welcome the sound of early jazz across the Atlantic. In 2026, that spirit of musical exchange returns in full force as the Liverpool International Jazz Festival (LIJF) takes over the Capstone Theatre and venues across the city from Friday 26 February to Sunday 1 March. Established in…
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Helen Maw Scoops Both Awards At The Liverpool Acoustic Songwriting Challenge 2025
The Liverpool Acoustic Songwriting Challenge 2025 Showcase Final took place at the British Music Experience on Saturday 7th February 2026. A sold out venue saw each of the finalists performing their song with a picture of the work of art that inspired it displayed for all to see on the eight screens surrounding the performance space. At the end of the night Helen Maw was announced as the winner of both the Judges’ Award and the Chris Callander Audience…
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In Conversation: KOJ
KOJ is a rising rap sensation from South Liverpool. With a unique fusion between the rawness of grime culture and the eclectic creativity of UK rap. KOJ delivers authentic, personable lyrics that cut deep – placing him firmly among the UK’s most formidable talents in rap. We spoke to KOJ ahead of his headline show TRiBE in Liverpool this Saturday 7 February, to talk about his journey in music and what’s in store for him…
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Liverpool’s Underground Music and Arts Festival OUTER WAVES Announces Third Wave of Artists
Liverpool’s underground music and arts festival OUTER WAVES has announced the third wave of artists for its 2026 edition, returning to Liverpool’s North Docks at Invisible Wind Factory and Make CIC, 23-24 May 2026. Following the previously announced headliners ØXN (feat. Radie Peat of Lankum) and Dame Area, the festival now reveals the world premiere of HAND TO MOUTH TO — a new suite of pared-down works for voice and keys, collaboratively composed and performed by Keeley Forsyth alongside Matthew Bourne. This latest announcement also includes a showcase from Irish…
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Motel Sundown Share Uplifting New Single ‘Watch Which Way the Wind Blows’
Motel Sundown’s latest single Watch Which Way the Wind Blows arrives as a radiant prelude to their Signs In The Rush of Light EP, due this Spring — and it’s a beautifully assured statement from a band whose songwriting is something genuinely compelling. The track pairs an upbeat tempo with the trio’s flawless harmonies, making for a listening experience that feels both buoyant and emotionally resonant. Lyrically, the song explores themes of loss and resilience,…
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Festival To Transform Liverpool Into The ‘Jazz Capital of the UK’ This February
Liverpool is set to be transformed into the jazz capital of the UK this February as Liverpool International Jazz Festival takes over the city once again. This festival, now in its 13th year, will be the biggest yet — with no less than 14 events showcasing both international and local talent in a week-long programme. The festival’s main events featuring international stars are taking place at The Capstone Theatre from Thursday 26 February until Sunday 1…
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Exploring Sincerity and Vulnerability: Sophie Grace’s ‘i still need you.’
Sophie Grace is an emerging artist on the North West music scene with her upcoming single i still need you. set to be released today (30 January). Based in Liverpool and currently studying at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts’ School of Music, Sophie Grace is at the centre of a city defined by its musical success, which is helping her find her own as a rising Indie Folk artist and producer. Originally from the…
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Sound City 2026 Announces New Wave of Rising Stars For Liverpool Festival
Sound City has revealed a major new wave of emerging talent for its 2026 edition, cementing its reputation as the UK’s leading inner-city new music discovery festival. Joining previously announced headliners Jalen Ngonda, Keo, Westside Cowboy and Brooke Combe, the latest announcement adds 21 rising artists to the bill, spotlighting the next generation of artists tipped for breakthrough success. Among the newly confirmed names are Arctic Monkeys collaborator Tom Rowley, Bristol’s upbeat pop outfit Adult…
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Crate-Digging: The Dream Machine’s Best Charity Shop Vinyl Finds
New Brighton’s The Dream Machine know their way around a great record – especially when it’s been unearthed from a charity shop crate. For this piece, frontman Zak McDonnell digs through his favourite second-hand vinyl finds, from doo-wop classics to sun-bleached soundtracks, sharing the stories, sounds and small obsessions that make each record special. Welcome to The Dream Machine’s Best Charity Shop Vinyl Finds – proof that some of the best musical treasures are hiding…
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Roscoe Street Talk Funk Influences, DIY Chaos and House Tour: Volume 2
From packed-out living rooms and campus shutdowns to funk-fuelled grooves that demand you move, Roscoe Street are carving out their own lane with a fearless DIY spirit and a sound built for sweaty, joyful chaos. Blending funk, soul and blues with the energy of today’s forward-thinking acts, the six-piece have quickly built a reputation for turning any space into a dancefloor. We caught up with the band to talk musical influences, cracked ceilings, songwriting as…
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New British Music Experience Exhibition Explores The Artwork Behind Arctic Monkeys’ Iconic Debut Album
The British Music Experience is set to revisit one of the most defining visual moments in modern British music with Don’t Believe the Hype… Uncovering the Artwork of Arctic Monkeys’ Debut Album, a new temporary exhibition opening in Liverpool this January. Launching exactly 20 years to the day since the release of Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, the exhibition takes a deep dive into the creation and cultural legacy of one…
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Africa Oyé Announces Afrobeats Star Patoranking and Eco-Punk Collective Fulu Miziki for 2026
The first two international acts have been revealed for this June’s Africa Oyé Festival in Liverpool’s Sefton Park. Retuning as a ticketed event for the first time in 2026, Africa Oyé is the UK’s biggest celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture. Making his Liverpool debut at this year’s festival is multiple award-winning Nigerian musician, Patoranking. A visionary in the African music industry and a cultural ambassador for Afrobeats, Patoranking blends the genre with reggae and…
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TRiBE: New Generation of Liverpool Hip Hop Stars Take The Spotlight At The Philharmonic
Liverpool’s burgeoning hip hop scene will be showcased at one of the city’s most iconic venues in the new year. Africa Oyé and LIMF Academy have joined forces for TRiBE, a collaborative event at the Philharmonic Music Room exploring the eclecticism and depth of the hip hop genre. A wealth of talent from Liverpool and wider city region will take the stage on Saturday 7 February 2026, including rapper KOJ. KOJ by Anthony Wilde With…
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Let the Music Speak: Bette Schindler’s Anti-Marketing EP
While most musicians today are measured by streams, shares, and online hype, Bette Schindler is taking a bold step back: letting the music speak for itself. In 1982, Bruce Springsteen famously released Nebraska – an album that defied convention. Refusing to promote the record through interviews, live performances, or traditional publicity, Springsteen wanted listeners to experience the music on its own terms, without external interpretation or influence. The experiment worked: Nebraska reached number three in…
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So Long, Good Friday: Liverpool’s New Multi-Venue All-Dayer Unveils Fat Dog and Star-Studded Lineup
The Good Times and HSP Presents have announced So Long, Good Friday, a new multi-venue all-dayer in Liverpool showcasing the best new music at an affordable price. In spring 2026, a brand new all-dayer brings some of the most exciting upcoming bands to Liverpool for a multi-venue all-dayer. Taking place on 3 April, the first edition of So Long, Good Friday already boasts an impressive lineup, including a headline set from rising rock ‘n’ roll cowboys Fat Dog.…
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alright (okay) Hit Restart and Find Their Sound on decent (fine)
Some bands know exactly who they are from day one; others discover their voice through growth, experimentation, and time. Liverpool alternative rock outfit alright (okay) fall proudly into the latter — a band who’ve evolved steadily since forming in 2019, refining their sound through countless gigs, new ideas, and the creative spark that arrived in full force during their 2023 restart. That reboot sparked something real. Their live shows grew sharper and more unpredictable, picking…
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Review: Liverpool Welsh Choral Festive Fanfare at The Tung Auditorium
To quote Andy Williams, ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year’ and on the 13 December I had a wonderful opportunity to add just a little more magic into my festive season, an evening of pure joy performed by the Liverpool Welsh Choral. I attended the Tung Auditorium for an evening of carols and festive tunes in their production ‘Festive Fanfare’ featuring the nationally recognised Northop Silver Band who is steeped in history and…
Music is at the very heart of Liverpool’s identity. From its world-famous legacy as the birthplace of The Beatles to its ever-evolving grassroots scene, Liverpool has always been a city that lives and breathes music. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, the city offers countless opportunities to experience live performances, discover new talent, and celebrate the enduring power of sound.
At Liverpool Noise, our Music section is dedicated to shining a spotlight on everything happening across the city’s vibrant scene. We cover everything from homegrown artists releasing exciting new music, to intimate gigs in independent venues, right through to global stars performing on the city’s biggest stages.
Liverpool’s Local Music Scene
One of the most exciting aspects of Liverpool’s music culture is the wealth of grassroots talent continually emerging from the city. Independent venues like The Jacaranda, EBGBs, and The Cavern Club play host to rising acts every week, giving audiences a chance to experience tomorrow’s stars today. Our reviews and features often highlight these musicians, helping fans keep up to date with who’s making waves in the scene.
Major Live Gigs and Touring Artists
Liverpool’s venues also attract some of the biggest touring artists from around the world. The M&S Bank Arena regularly welcomes international acts, while the O2 Academy and Mountford Hall bring in chart-topping artists across genres. Our coverage ensures you’ll always know which must-see gigs are coming up, along with honest reviews of the performances once they hit the stage.
Festivals and Music Events
Liverpool is home to an impressive calendar of music festivals, celebrating everything from indie and rock to electronic and jazz. Liverpool Sound City, Africa Oyé, and International Beatleweek are just a few of the city’s standout events, attracting audiences from across the UK and beyond. We keep readers informed about festival line-ups, previews, and highlights, so you never miss a beat.
Music Reviews and Features
Our team brings you reviews of the latest singles, EPs, and albums released by Liverpool artists, as well as coverage of standout live gigs. We also dive deeper with interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and features that explore the cultural impact of music within the city. Whether it’s an emerging indie band, an experimental electronic act, or a soul singer with powerful vocals, Liverpool Noise celebrates the diversity of sound that defines our city.
Why Music in Liverpool Matters
Liverpool’s designation as a UNESCO City of Music speaks volumes about its global cultural significance. The city’s musical past is legendary, but its present and future are just as exciting. Supporting local talent, enjoying world-class gigs, and engaging with the city’s music culture are all part of what makes Liverpool such a unique and inspiring place to live and visit.
If you want to keep your finger on the pulse of Liverpool’s music scene, our Music category is your essential guide. From discovering the best live gigs to reading about the latest album releases, Liverpool Noise connects you with the soundtrack of the city.