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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Africa Oyé Announces 2027 Dates as Liverpool Festival Prepares to Celebrate 35 Years
Africa Oyé has announced the dates for its 2027 festival in Liverpool, with the much-loved celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture set to mark its 35th anniversary next summer. The festival will return to Sefton Park on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 June 2027, with limited earlybird tickets now on sale. The announcement follows a hugely successful 2026 festival, which saw more than 20,000 people head to Sefton Park across the weekend as…
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east exchange Deliver a Powerful Debut EP with ‘torn between ties’
Liverpool four-piece east exchange have released their debut EP, torn between ties. – a six-track introduction to a band taking the rawness of 90s grunge and giving it a fresh, melodic edge. Released via AWAL, the EP explores emotional struggle, self-reflection, relationships and connection, bringing together previous singles ghost., unspoken., lily. and fall. alongside new tracks bleed. and torn. For a debut EP, there’s a real confidence running through torn between ties. It’s heavy when…
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Youth Music Awards 2026 Nominees Announced Ahead of First-Ever Liverpool Ceremony
The Youth Music Awards are heading to Liverpool for the first time this October, with more than 40 artists, grassroots projects and music industry leaders nominated across 11 categories. The Youth Music Awards 2026 will take place at St George’s Hall, Liverpool, on Wednesday 28 October, marking the first time the event has been held outside London since launching in 2019. Described as the UK’s biggest night celebrating grassroots music, the awards will shine a…
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Damiano Releases Dreamlike New Single ‘Violet Topaz’
Violet Topaz marks the latest chapter from singer-songwriter and producer Damiano. Released on the 28August, it’s the artist’s third single, shaped by atmospheric production and cinematic melodies. Following in the immersive footsteps of Little White Lies and DREAMZ, Violet Topaz has a lot to offer listeners. Damiano’s debut single Little White Lies explores the transformative nature of Los Angeles. As it imagines the surreal, dreamy nature of the city, vibrant riffs on the track truly…
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Youth Music Awards 2026 Announces Liverpool Hosts and Performers
The Youth Music Awards 2026 has revealed the hosts, performers and emerging creatives taking part when the UK celebration of grassroots music comes to Liverpool for the first time this October. Taking over St George’s Hall on Wednesday 28 October, the awards will bring together rising artists, music industry talent and young creatives from across the UK, with Liverpool musicians among those taking to the stage. Presenters Crystal Raybe and Success Ariyibi have been announced…
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Mary Hennessy Returns With Dreamy New Single ‘You’re Gonna Ruin Me’
Following the 2023 album Feels Like, Indie folk artist Mary Hennessy returns with the release of her new, dreamy single You’re Gonna Ruin Me. The talented singer-songwriter knew what she was doing releasing a Gilmore Girls-esque song just in time for cosy autumn evenings. The heartfelt track explores how a fleeting relationship can often leave lasting impacts. The melancholic production relaxes you instantly which contradicts the emotional, sharp lyrics. The acoustic elements of the song…
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The Rock Orchestra: Arena of Fire Brings Rock and Metal Classics to Liverpool
What happens when you take some of the biggest rock and metal anthems ever written, hand them over to 14 classical musicians and add fire, pyrotechnics and a huge arena production? Liverpool is about to find out. The Rock Orchestra is returning to the city this autumn, bringing its brand-new Arena of Fire show to M&S Bank Arena Liverpool on Friday 2 October 2026. Following back-to-back tours across the UK and USA, the rotating collective…
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Chris Elliot Maps New Ground on Long-Awaited Album ‘Territories’
It’s been twelve years since Chris Elliot last put a record out, but Territories isn’t the kind of release that should be fast-tracked. Taking in elements of folk, blues, country and gospel, the album has found a fitting home on The Viper Label, the company started up by Paul Hemmings and Mike Badger of The La’s and the Lightning Seeds. With its mix of melancholy and romanticism, Elliot’s music springs from that same soil –…
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Sumud: A Night of Solidarity and Song Comes to Liverpool
There are plenty of gigs coming to Liverpool this September, but few arrive with quite the sense of purpose surrounding Sumud, a special fundraising concert at The Dome at Grand Central on Friday 11 September, organised by Amos Trust in support of its Gaza Appeal. Bringing together an unusually strong line-up of established names, Palestinian voices and emerging talent, the evening promises music, solidarity and, importantly, a direct contribution towards humanitarian relief. Amos Trust describes itself as a creative…
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Liverpool Battle of the Bands 2027 Opens Applications for North West Bands
Liverpool Soundz has announced the return of its city-wide Battle of the Bands competition for 2027, giving emerging bands from across Merseyside and the North West the chance to perform at some of Liverpool’s best-known music venues and compete for a £1,000 top prize. Following its inaugural competition earlier this year, Liverpool promoter The Good Times will bring Battle of the Bands back in January 2027, with applications now open to bands across all musical…
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Hot Pink, J-Pop and No Regrets: The World of MARiMARi
Creatives of the City Series by Grace Stokoe Japanese-British, hyper-pop diva MARiMARi has taken the North West music scene by storm. Gaining recognition through relentless TikTok posts, showcasing her unique sound and style, the 23 year old singer-songwriter played her first festival in August 2026, ticking it off as one of her main goals. “Y Not Festival was the biggest stage I’ve played, which was really cool,” she tells Liverpool Noise. MARiMARi describes her aesthetic as “2000’s nostalgic, bubbly,…
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Trilogy of Electronic Music Shows Coming to Liverpool’s Capstone Theatre
Liverpool’s Capstone Theatre is set to become a hub for adventurous sound this autumn with a trilogy of live electronic music performances featuring three of the UK’s most acclaimed and innovative artists. Across October and November, audiences will be treated to performances from Pye Corner Audio, an Electronic Music Double Bill featuring Jo Johnson and Polypores, and pioneering electronic musician Scanner, offering a rare opportunity to experience some of the most exciting names in contemporary electronic music in an intimate…
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Live Review: Westside Cowboy at Rough Trade Liverpool
Following the release of their debut album, It Goes On, Westside Cowboy set off on a UK Record Store Tour to celebrate, with Liverpool being the group’s fourth stop before a string of festival appearances later in the tour. Their newest release, It Goes On, builds upon the band’s renowned sound, uniting the guitar-driven influence of The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan with the earthy tones of groups like Black Country, New Road. Whilst Westside…
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Pleasure Island on Sleaze, Festivals and Choosing MILF
Pleasure Island are back with a new EP, a suitably outrageous launch show and merch that probably won’t be appearing in your average band shop. Ahead of the release of Now That’s What I Call Sleaze 26, we caught up with Francine – Sean when the day job calls – to talk Penny Lane Weekender, making music about the things you’re not supposed to discuss in polite society, and why a Nier: Automata cosplay is…
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Afloat Theatre: New Songs, New Voices and a New Chapter
Afloat Theatre has been keeping things relatively quiet of late – but, as anyone involved in the organisation will tell you, quiet does not necessarily mean still. Behind the scenes, Afloat has been busy preparing for what feels like a new chapter, one that expands its already distinctive approach to community, creativity and social change into the world of songwriting and music. Now a Community Interest Company, Afloat has unveiled a programme of forthcoming events…
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Future Yard Reveals Launch Series for New 600-Capacity Birkenhead Venue
Future Yard has revealed the first wave of artists set to perform as part of the launch series for its new 600-capacity live music venue in Birkenhead, with Squid, Holly Humberstone, Irvine Welsh, Xzibit, BODEGA and And So I Watch You From Afar among the names announced. The new crowdfunded venue is currently nearing completion at Future Yard’s home on Argyle Street and is expected to open its doors before the end of the year.…
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Naomi Campbell’s New Single Is A Shimmering Tribute To 70s Country-Soul
Comfort of the Breeze is the latest single from Liverpool-based Irish singer-songwriter Naomi Campbell, following April’s release of track The Cottage. Since her solo debut in March 2024 – alongside her work as part of Americana trio Motel Sundown – Campbell has since gone on to build a name for herself in the scene, supporting touring UK, Ireland and US artists and playing her first UK / Ireland tour. She has received significant support from regional and national radio,…
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BBC Introducing LIVE Returns to Liverpool with Music Masterclasses and Industry Q&As
BBC Introducing LIVE will return to Liverpool this November with a special evening designed to support emerging musicians and music creators in the city. Taking place on Tuesday 10 November, the invite-only event will feature production masterclasses, an industry panel offering advice to new musicians and Q&A sessions hosted by BBC Introducing in Merseyside presenter Dave Monks. The Liverpool event forms part of the legacy of BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, which was held at…
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Why Keyside Are the Soundtrack to Your Summer
Keyside are an unstoppable force from Liverpool, praised for their irresistible hooks and relatable anthems. The four-piece are Dani-Lee Parker (vocals, acoustic guitar), Ben Cassidy (lead guitar), Max Gibson (bass, backing vocals) and Oisín McAvoy (drums), who have been causing quite a stir across the North West’s Indie scene. With a debut album, festival season and plenty more performances on the way, Keyside are easily set to be one of the most talked about emerging…
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Only Child Reimagines Bruce Springsteen Songs on New EP
Only Child shines a new light on Bruce Springsteen’s enduring songs… Bruce Springsteen’s songs have never belonged solely to Bruce Springsteen. Throughout a career spanning more than five decades, his music has travelled far beyond the streets of New Jersey, finding a home wherever ordinary lives are shaped by hope, hardship and resilience. It is that universal quality that lies at the heart of the latest release from Liverpool songwriter Alan O’Hare and his acclaimed…
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.