The well-anticipated Beat the Streets returned for its fifth year running last Sunday...
The well-anticipated Beat the Streets returned for its fifth year running last Sunday, and it has been an absolute success! Such an incredible day, packed-full of talented artists, good people and an even better cause - all the money raised by the event went straight towards Framework charity, who fight to help homelessness in Nottingham and the UK.
A good time for a good cause, what’s there not to love?
The range of talent on the day was astonishing, with acts spread all across Rescue Rooms, Rock City and Bodega. The city was buzzing with swarms of people, and each venue found itself jam-packed from start to finish. We headed out to see a few shows and let’s just say, we haven’t been let down!
This year, Beat the Streets saw its first spoken word performance, from the amazing women and non-binary people at Sugar Stealers - an emotional, thought-provoking 45-minute start to the day that left the room speechless after each poem. It was powerful, sweet, fierce, reassuring and even playful at times. Incredible work from our local writers.
We then headed to Rock City to see ALT BLK ERA, a Nottingham based duo who blend nu-metal, rap, punk and electronic music together. They are definitely a must see. Their energy is so contagious, you can’t help but get behind what they’re doing.
Next stop was at Red Room to see Sharp Class, another Nottingham local band whose electric energy could probably power the entire city for weeks. If you love punk, brit-pop or rock 'n' roll, give these guys a listen. You won't be disappointed!
Divorce was the next one on the list, who delivered an unforgettable performance on the Rock City main stage. ‘3 big boys, 1 little rascal’ - keep your eyes peeled for what this bad has to come, as they are only going to get bigger from here.
The next two acts, headliner Ferocious Dog followed by Lawnmower Deth on the Rock City main stage, brought Nottingham's punk rock and thrash metal fans together. The room saw seas of raised devil horn hands as the crowd fully immersed in the energy and sound of the evening. Absolute legends, both of them.
As the night came close to the end, we headed to Rescue Rooms for one last burst of energy from Girlband. What a show! Such a thrilling, menacing, exciting sound, and it's even better live. Definitely give them a listen.
The entire day was an absolute blast, and not only was there an act to suit everyone, but there were also countless ways in which people could help out further - merch, food banks donation spots, and even a tombola! (Shout out to Tommy Tombola, the legendary resident tombola operator and merch seller).
All funds raised, including drinks, were put towards Framework charity and all the food donated was sent to Emmanuel House.
Beat the Streets is such an incredible initiative, and it benefits all of us - absolutely incredible work from the event organisers, staff, artists and attendees. It's so heart-warming to see how much support there is out there, not only for those in need, but also for the arts.
Thank you Beat the Streets, for giving a voice and a chance to so many.
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
