People often underestimate the position Hartlepool has in the North East music scene but it continues to be an incredible platform for emerging and exhilaratingly talented young bands.
Saturday was an exceptional example of this as The Studio hosted Venus, MarketPlace, The Warrens and Ocean Floor to a young and engaged audience.
The atmosphere in the venue was tangible and as Ocean Floor hit the stage, their already established fans sang, danced and interacted with the band throughout their set.
The energy continued to rise as The Warrens took to the stage sweeping the audience along in their inimitable style inspired by decades of unique and proven tunes.
MarketPlace then took up the baton continuing to whip-up the crowd into a frenzy. Their energy and stage presence were unstoppable and, alongside the other two bands who had already played, they reinforced themselves as a band to watch as they will continue to grow and grow.
Having already experienced a deluge of Hartlepool talent, the mood of The Studio continued to intensify as the evening culminated in the extraordinary talent of Leeds outfit, Venus.
Hearing Venus live is a physical event: not only do the deep rhythms and beats drive their way through your body but there is an unequivocally emotional feel to their portrayal of vital topics and experiences many have faced.
As an all-female five-piece band, Venus bring their positive energy through their medium influenced by hard rock and punk. Their music aims to support a safer and more inclusive music scene including the promotion and inclusion of women participating in the alternative music scene. With the addition of support for feminist issues and activism, their set has something for everyone and distinguishes them as a principal voice for the future.
Of particular note was their message about mental health and recognition that this is something which affects everybody. The power of this was reinforced by their stripped-back version of ‘Amy’ which was aural genius and perfectly exposed the raw, genuine and just all out astounding vocal talent of lead singer, Grace Kelly.
Venus are undoubtedly a band to watch out for and not to be missed; they are a feast for the senses and are predicted to go from strength to strength.
