In my opinion… – Tony Green’s pick of upcoming gigs not to be missed in Leeds

I’m dedicating this month’s rundown to Jim Broski, a friend in music whose passing has been felt heavily in the DJ community, especially those in Leeds. He was renowned for his extensive music knowledge (especially in disco and house), but also had a rare gift of a personality that made you feel happy and comfortable to be around him. Thanks for enhancing my life, Jim, albeit sporadically, and thanks to Jason Birch and Steve Luigi for introducing me to such a great chap.

This is the rundown of happenings that will bring good people together under one roof, a soundtrack to positive social interactions in and around Leeds. Summer is usually baron – not this year!

June 20th

Re:Soul @ Hirsts Yard

https://www.facebook.com/events/1089813297723885/

DJ Lubi making sure there is an authentic platform not just for the heritage soul acts in Leeds, but the breakthrough acts. This is as NOW and FRESH as you will find for live soul in Leeds.

25th June

DeadFunky (a funk 45s night) @ Plonkers Wine Bar, York

with Gary ‘Gazfunk’ Small (check his blog – serious knowledge.)

With Deadfunky two years in, promoter and collector Bob Burrows brings specialist funk 45 Djs to the turntables… Djs you never see in Leeds, so it’s worth a little journey over there.

And on the same night, something completely different, but equally nice:

Session Victim @ Distrikt

Foz from Dirty Disco put me onto this track. It’s a beauty!

Session Victim’s second run out at Distrikt. We had so many fun times in there with Slowdown Sounds, it’s good to have an excuse (other than an England Euro game this Monday) to visit this special little venue.

26th June

Waterfront Festival @ Leeds Dock – 11-6pm

Family vibes. I’m spinning a 45s set alongside Mark Young from Sela Bar and the ever brilliant Sara Garvey.  We’ve picked some quality live music too from midday to 6pm – Malaika, Do Rite Trio, Toca Madera… Oh yeah, and there’s some crazy street food award thing so it’s going to be a busy one. Bring the whole family – and it’s freeee.

1st July 

Saul Williams @ The Belgrave

During these strangely troubled times I think Saul will be the perfect antidote for our mind and soul.

Saul is a must-see, then head over to Sheaf Street for the Big Disco – Justin Robertson and Greg Wilson playing into the early hours. You’ll need to let your hair down after the journey Saul will have taken us all on.

4th July 

Victor Wooten @ Brudenell

Covering last month’s ground, but what a ridiculous talent to see perform in Leeds. Watch this video and try NOT to buy a ticket.

Thank you promoters BAMBAMBAM!

9th July

Cocoon in the Park, Leeds.

Not really one I’ll be attending but thought it a worthy mention as Sven Vath @ The Orbit circa 92 still stands as the finest DJ set/ event I’ve ever attended and he’s doing a 4 hour vinyl set here (it’s his event).  In fact now I’ve written it down I think I would love to see Sven playing in a park if the weather holds out.

13th July

AMP FIDDLER @ The Hi Fi

https://www.facebook.com/events/1093738327350155/

https://youtube.com/watch?v=rFnlRk0cdsM

Last played in Leeds must have been six years ago at the Hi Fi.

9th August

DJ Lubi presents THUNDERCAT @ The Brudenell

PICK OF THE POST! Promoters have been clawing to get this one. Lovely to see him come to rest at The Brudenell.

Future planning

8th August

Sun Ra Arkestra (if it’s not sold out already) @ Belgrave

26th August

Afro Coalition is hosting an invite only party at Studio 24 – a new venue on Mabgate that everyone is really enjoying.   Hit up Malcolm We Love for more details (I know there was only 100 tickets going out for that one and he’s booked a big name to play alongside their crew).

3rd September

Pete Rock and CL Smooth in Manchester

https://www.facebook.com/events/1594103054233484/

27th October

Nao @ Leeds University Union

12th November 

ADRIAN “SHERWOOD AT THE CONTROLS” @ Trades Club (Hebden Bridge) 

Tony Green is a long standing promoter and DJ in Leeds.  Check his record label www.released.co.uk  / [email protected].