It may have been a cold and rainy day, but that didn’t stop thousands of Notts residents darting between Talbot, Pelham and Broad Street for this year’s edition of Beat The Streets. With the annual festival having raised a whopping £491,100 for Framework since it began back in 2018, this was another opportunity for local music fans to enjoy the vibrant sounds of our great city and raise vital funds for this great cause in the process. Not ones to miss out, we sent our team down to the festival to capture the sights and sounds of this amazing event...
FamilyFriend, Red Room, 1.30pm
An extremely tight, experimental and funky set to open up the Red Room stage. FamilyFriend mixes bedroom pop beats with well-controlled yet powerful guitar riffs and licks, allowing him to create a full band sound with just himself on stage. This really pays off, giving him a solid, professional and effortlessly unique presence on stage. He holds the room completely, everyone watching him work his best. His songs work well together, with obvious thought put into the setlist, and it pays off, with each song being amazing separately but also weaving in well to the next. FamilyFriend, is a must-watch Notts act for 2025. TG
Antonio Panzera, Rescue Rooms, 2pm
A beautiful set from start to finish. Antonio’s voice is beautiful, strong and full of emotion, which is complemented fully by his masterful guitar playing. With just him and an acoustic, with added reverb, this set is uniquely stripped back for a big stage and it gives the show a hauntingly special feel, a tone that resonates through his whole set. Honestly, his entire set is something else. It has chill but dark vibes, echoing the likes of Radiohead or Buck Meek, but its all singularly perfect on its own. Seeing him on a stage this big was amazing and I hope to see him play more like this in future. TG
Stained Glass, The Bodega, 2.30pm
To me, Stained Glass are a different breed of metal band. They take hardcore and push it into new heights, in a clean, expertly executed way. The front-duo of Josh and Mollie work extremely well together, their clean vocals being resounding and potent but their screams being the real beauty of the sound. The screams are smooth but raw and pure, conveying emotion through the pure grit of the noise. The whole band work their hardest for the entire 30 minutes, and its incredible to watch, let alone hear. Every song hits better than the last, the whole set an escalation into deeper, heavier, and more dramatic territory. These are amazing and definitely worth checking out, especially if you like bands like Knocked Loose or Spirit Box. Simply incredible in every single way. TG
Jayahadadream, Rock City, 3pm
Accompanied by regular collaborator Zoutr and a full live band, rapper Jayahadadream showed exactly why she won the prestigious Glastonbury Emerging Talent competition last year. Fighting off the jet lag from a recent trip to Barcelona, Jaya intricately spun perfectly penned bar after perfectly penned bar, leaving the sizeable audience at her early afternoon set looking on in awe. Playing through tracks from her debut EP Redemption Songs as well as some standalone singles, it was a typically dazzling set that was further elevated by the musicianship from her accomplished and impressive backing band. An incredible talent that just keeps getting better every time we see her! KB
Louie Walsh, Rock City Beta, 3.30pm
Admittedly, I hadn’t heard of Louie but I had time and found myself in rock city, and I heard a beautiful and familiar sound emitting from Beta that grabbed me: Catfish and the Bottlemen’s Cocoon. I went in and was shocked by Louie completely. His music lean towards pop-rock and even indie territory at times, and his band are just incredible. The set is full of heart, smiles and incredible guitar riffs. His voice is both heavenly and soul-crushing, and everyone in the audience feels every feeling in every note he sing, a rare and powerful talent. For me, he is reminiscent of Billy Lockett and Cian Ducrot, in both vocal style and talent. Although this is a fully formed and incredible act, Louie and his band has a lot of promise for more, and their catalogue is a really powerful listen, though, for me, they shine more live. Its always good to be surprised at a festival, and these really did the trick for me. TG
Static Kill, Red Room, 3.30pm
I'll admit to being five minutes late for this set and I paid the price. The Red Room was absolutely packed and I had to squeeze in at the back for Static Kill's brilliant performance of acoustic punky rock. I'd not come across this band before but am so pleased to have seen them perform at Beat The Streets 2025. A trio of musicians dedicated to delivering hard hitting lyrics and music about their experiences, the sounds reminded me of The Clash (a band I was fortunate to see many, many years ago and even arranged a gig with Joe Strummer). I'm not sure if these guys welcome my comparison, but it's meant with the best of intentions and I'm now a fan. Bassey
The fabulous penultimate act of City of Literature & Nott Another Take Over, was the one and only Davina Songbird. A Notts neo-soul sensation and gifted poet, she exuded calm and confident energy as soon as the mic was placed in her hand. Her incredibly rich husky timbre had everyone captivated; as she sang personal stories of her roots from Trinidad & Guyana, provoking words of poetic inspiration, whilst confronting prejudiced attitudes, and reflective embraces of self authenticity, with such commendable honesty and tenacity in her powerful voice. Fellow members of GOBS Collective praised Davina’s glory, contributing cheers and rightful whoops of poet solidarity from the intimate crowd. She concluded her excellent set with her iconic soulful single I’m Worthy. An empowering song promoting fierce self-love, affection and personal growth. Reminding us all to be kinder to ourselves, and to firmly be reassured we are worthy. KM-W
One of the most intriguing sets of the whole day, TV and film star (and bonafide local legend) Paddy Considine brought his band, Riding The Low, down to the legendary halls of Rock City. A set filled with big singalong anthems such as the band’s powerful recent single Lifeboats, there were also plenty of dramatics from Paddy throughout the performance too – which, given his day job, was probably to be expected. After smearing his face in some black war paint during Tommy Hawk, he then pulled out a mask and a baseball bat for the seismic final duo of Heed and Carapace of Glass. Relentlessly hammering the bat into the Rock City stage at the latter’s thunderous climax, it was a striking final image after an epic performance, with the impact of the set lingering well beyond the last note being played. If you’re going to Download this summer, you won’t want to miss them! KB
Leah Wilcox, The Bodega Bar, 4pm
After seeing Leah Wilcox perform at YNOT in August 2024, I had her song Origami Flowers on repeat and hearing it live in the bodega surrounded by so many others was incredibly special. Her set list included fan favourites Vertigo and Backwards as well as an unnamed song she hadn’t played live yet which has a softer, slower sound that contrasts her latest release Blue, a more empowering track. She finished off her set with another, raunchier, unreleased song that demonstrated the range and power of her vocals. She mentions that most of her songs are love songs but, of course, isn’t every song in some way? Wilcox’s ability to fuse raw emotion and upbeat vibes to a catchy tune is what has seen her gain in popularity. If you’re up for a slow dance or upbeat bounce then check her out when she is back at The Bodega on 14th February. CG
Blood Wizard, Rescue Rooms, 5pm
A quick dash outside in the rain and back into Rescue Rooms to see Blood Wizard. These guys even looked cool in their soundcheck, a four-piece band on keys, drums, bass both real and synth, guitar and vocals and fronted by Nottingham's own Cai Burns. Pulsating bass lines, syncopated drum beats, and at times a dreamy noise from guitar and synths all made for the perfect sound on a Sunday afternoon. I loved the almost spoken word vibe and it reminded me of a modern day Lou Reed, Magazine or Damon Albarn influenced sound. In particular I loved their final song I'll Make The Pizza (hope I got the title right) and the triplet-y 3/4 time. Probably my best new find of the day. Bassey
Evil Scarecrow, Rock City, 5pm
For years I’ve been trying to see parody metal outfit Evil Scarecrow, but for whatever reason the stars have just never quite aligned. Finally on Sunday it all came together and I was able to get my first full Evil Scarecrow experience – and it was everything I hoped it would be! From aliens leaping out of mystical portals during Nuclear Fallout Machine Sentience, inflatable ninjas and giant chopsticks in Master of the Dojo, flying animals during Hurricanado and then the fever dream that is the giant, intoxicated, squid-limbed chicken at the centre of Release the Krakhen, it was brilliant, batshit and bonkers from start to finish. The highlight, however, was final number Crabulon, with a full Rock City main hall all sideways walking with their pincers in the air, and just the biggest smiles on their faces.
Without a doubt, the highlight of the whole day and I already can’t wait to experience an Evil Scarecrow show again – please book them every year! KB
Headcut, The Bodega, 5.30pm
Headcut rocked the Bodega with their new song and its big drum build-up, as well as classics such as Ride or Die and Better Together. The band brought bass and floaty vocals and created an enigmatic yet powerful vibe that sounded like teenage angst and saw the crowd headbanging. Transfixing the audience with their snapping drum beat and soaring vocals, Headcut boast quite a bewitching feel. Inspired by the likes of Siouxsie and the Banshees and The Cure, Headcut definitely bring a post-punk edge to the Nottingham music scene. CG
Mollie Ralph & The City Flowers, Rescue Rooms, 6pm
Mollie Ralph is an incredible vocalist/guitarist/synth-player in Stained Glass, but as the frontwoman of The City Flowers she expands her already incredible talent into new territory. The band are a punky poppy blend of musical talent, effortlessly cool in everything they do. The Rescue Rooms stage comes alive with the pure invention and character of this band. I’m in awe of their presence; taking in every part simultaneously is a moving experience. Something that really sticks out too, probably due to Mollie's and guitarist Josh’s presence in Stained Glass, is the fact that The City Flowers do not stray away from subtle heaviness and it really pays off. Honestly, these are a must-see pop-rock act in 2025. TG
The Publics, Rock City, 6.15pm
Performing for the first time since their Rescue Rooms Headline in December, local legends The Publics turned Rock City upside down with their bouncy energy. They opened with a new, unreleased song that follows suit to their classic blistering guitar riffs and soaring vocals, before seeing the crowd expand when performing fan favourites D.B. Cooper and Red Flag Verified.
As well as the high-energy performance the band remind us what Beat the Streets is all about: “Thank you to DHP, thank you to Framework for putting this event on to raise money, This song is called Murphy’s Law and it is all about giving people second chances, and that's what Framework does."
The more emotive, slower tracks saw people on shoulders and torches swaying. Each song feels like a build-up to the showstopper of the night, festival favourite Karen's Song. Made to fill a dance floor, this one sees the crowd clapping in unison while preparing for the biggest mosh pit of the night. With a few of the crowd wearing The Publics T-shirts, it's clear that the people are very much a part of the band; the people are why the music plays. CG
Dorothy Ella, Rock City Beta, 6.45pm
Disco-pop-funk princess Dorothy Ella delivered an impeccable set at Beta, to a large crowd. The set had everyone dancing, singing and grooving along, creating an amazingly positive party atmosphere. Dorothy’s immensely fun vibes were complemented by her band, sharing some members with Leah Wilcox, who actually provided beautiful backup vocals, as well as Eighty-Eight Miles frontwoman Ellie Grice on drums. Every single part of the set works smoothly and perfectly, with everything executed to perfection. There are no small moments here; everything happening on stage is a big event, and this brilliant feeling is created just through the pure fun conveyed via every member’s musicianship, combined with the crowd’s willingness to participate in the band’s pretty euphoria. Dorothy’s voice here is just another level, with her vocals seamlessly cutting through everything else with beauty and pure power. Honestly, every set Dorothy does is special but in this packed day festival setting she stands out fully, alongside her band, as one of the single best acts on the Notts/Derby circuit. TG
Commons, Rescue Rooms, 7pm
Nottingham-based alternate rock band Commons instantly caught my attention with a tight AF bass and drums (I'm always a sucker for a rhythm section that works well together) I loved their wash of sound that was reminiscent of the best of Kasabian and these guys knew how to get the crowd moving. Following their debut EP from last year and featured on Dean Jackson's BBC Introducing, the Commons have just got better and better, with a high energy performance and great guitar licks. It's no wonder they have been mentioned as one of the must-see bands in Nottingham at the moment. Check out their single Godspeed, it's a belter. Bassey
King Blonde, Rough Trade, 7.30pm
A personal Beat the Streets highlight from a feast-ful of unique indie gems at Rough Trade was Derby’s finest dream pop four-piece King Blonde. Immersive crowd-pleasers of mellow indie rock, the band were so easy to get lost in yet very danceable, with their hazy guitar hooks, flying poignant vocals and upbeat cadence, transporting everyone to a gratifying serene dimension (making us briefly forget about the horrendous weather outside). Moving lyricism, atmospheric nostalgia, and dynamic soundscapes – King Blonde had it all. Strongly recommended for any admirers of Jeff Buckley, The Verve or The Smashing Pumpkins. KM-W
Swallowtail, The Bodega, 8.30pm
Swallowtail are a unique act, equal parts beauty, talent and emotion. For such young people they show have shown huge promise, and this Bodega set was no exception at all. The sound could be described as shoegaze or wall of sound, but honestly labels aren’t needed to describe them - they just create amazing music. The sounds they create are an intricate myriad of guitar tones, combined with frontwoman Katie’s polished yet soft and subtle vocals, furthered by the complicated but always relevant and skilled drumming. They hold the crowd completely for 30 minutes, ending in a roaring cheer. These guys are certainly worth watching out for in the future. TG
The Mighty Lightweights, Rough Trade, 8.30pm
Duo Jem Woolley and Paul Greevy are the Mighty Lightweights and I was mighty pleased to see them at last play live. Our musical paths have crossed many times over the years but this was my first time watching them perform. Jem on guitar and vocals, Paul on bass and an electronic friend providing various drum beats, the busy Rough Trade audience was given a refreshing alternate sound that took me back to simpler days when thoughtfully constructed pop/rock songs with meaningful lyrics meant more. A wall of guitar sounds from Jem allowed Paul to lay over some really interesting and moving bass lines; the electronic friend said very little but played his part. I know these guys are working on a new album and hopefully it will be out soon. Thanks for a great set Mighty Lightweights. Bassey
Nobody embodies complete charisma quite like Rob Green
ROB.GREEN, Rock City Beta, 9.15pm
Nobody embodies complete charisma quite like Rob Green. The perfect closing set for Rock City’s Beta venue space, Rob uplifted every single individual on the dance floor, behind the bar and even those cozily tucked away in the comfortable leather booths.
Friendly, heartfelt and utterly engaging from start to finish, Rob took us all on his musical journey through fast spoken-words and his eloquent voice, accompanied by simple acoustics. Sharing personal anecdotes and classics from his MANHOOD EP, including I’ll Be Around and What Are We Waiting For, Rob encouraged some lovely harmonies from audience participation, as everybody’s voices blended beautifully together. He concluded his set with a jukebox acoustic mash-up, featuring legendary tunes from TLC, Aloe Blacc and Destiny’s Child.
“Might be a bit biased as of course, I’m from here, but Nottingham is my favourite place to perform! AY UP!”
We can’t wait to see Rob in his absolute element on his first UK tour, which kicks off at Saltbox in March. KM-W
Beat The Streets took place at various venues across Nottingham on 26th January 2025.
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