Leeds Gig Digest – March 2016

Now that we’re 3 months and 3 days into our once-new year, the bountiful 2016, it seems the perfect time to enact the raft of new features and revitalised ideas any new year inevitably brings! Welcome back, with open arms if you will, TSOTA’s very own Leeds Gig Digest – the legend to your musical map of the coming weeks. Here we highlight the month’s best upcoming local shows, with synopses and pretty pictures to look at if your eyes get tired. Check out Ella Healing’s impeccable selection for March below! -Ed.

7th March – Grimes @ O2 Academy

From her emergence into the music scene in 2010 Claire Boucher, better known as Grimes, has always sought to be an immense creative force. Drawing from a plethora of influences, Boucher likens her music to ADD and even creates her own album art. With her immense energy and presence, her O2 Academy gig promises to be a spectacular show.

10th March – Traams @ Headrow House

The Chichester foursome return on top form after their appearance at Belgrave Music Hall last year. Their LP Modern Dancing was released in November to positive reviews, and you may have already seen their bizarre video for Neckbrace. The band’s latest endeavours see them touching on the psychedelic, but still remaining a noisy post-punk presence that saw them gain their initial success in 2013.

16th March – Lee Scratch Perry @ Brudenell Social Club [SOLD OUT]

The legendary artist and producer returns to Leeds. With a long life in the music industry, Perry has left an indellible mark on the reggae genre. His career has spanned decades, and he has worked with Bob Marley, Max Romeo and even The Beastie Boys. Despite this success, Perry isn’t afraid to dominate small venues and get up close to his fans – audience participation is not uncommon at his gigs!

The Leeds date is now sold out, but look out for our upcoming interview with the man himself!

16th March – Emmy the Great @ Belgrave Music Hall

After teasing us with the ‘S’ EP last year, Emma Lee Moss embarks on a new tour to follow the release of the Second Love album. A folk artist for the modern world, Moss’ lyrics address the raw and relatable parts of the human condition. With her humble, calm stage presence and masterful acoustic riffs, Emmy the Great’s latest tour will enchant old and new fans alike.

19th March – Wolf Alice @ O2 Academy

With Mercury prize, a Grammy and a Brit nomination, not to mention a sweep of this year’s NME Awards, the North London four-piece are not resting on their laurels. They have been likened to greats like The XX and Haim, but refuse to pigeonhole themselves to a specific genre or influence; instead, they are insistent of carving their own niche. It is this drive for originality which sets Wolf Alice apart from the rest of the alternative music scene.

29th March – Born Ruffians @ Brudenell Social Club

After the release of their new album Ruff, the Canadian band headline their own tour after supporting some of indie’s biggest names. Their new album is reminiscent of Vampire Weekend or Swim Deep, and lead singer Luke Lalonde cites Talking Heads as one of his influences. Universally appealing, Born Ruffians look as if they are set to become the soundtrack to summer 2016.

Follow Ella at @_LittleHobbit.