A first time visit to Twisterella festival in Middlesbrough on 12 October did not disappoint. Their 10th anniversary celebration of music was set in venues which were all well kitted out to support the bands who performed. Centred around the Teeside University campus, three of the rooms were in the building plus two further venues within 10 minutes walk. In 2019, Twisterella won an AIF Independent Festival Award for its ‘forward thinking bookings‘ which reflected the event’s track record in showcasing the brightest emerging national and international talent.
The organiser’s were quick to bring in last minute replacements for a couple of artists who for various reasons were not able to perform. Faithful Johannes, Straight Girl and Saloon Dion stepped in at the last minute and the communication was clear from the check-in desk located at the heart of the festival. There were also screens in every venue which made it easy for festival attendees to decide who to see where.
The line-up was a quality blend of newer artists plus established acts returning to Twisterella. The Howl and the Hum, Faithful Johannes, Saloon Dion and The Ilfords opened proceedings. Moving between the rooms in the Students Union was stress free, and with bars in every venue staying refreshed was similarly hassle free. However, the venue of the day had to be The Townhouse with its disco floor. Birmingham duo GANS were unfazed by the illumination under their feet! What a joyful racket these two make. The band have recently toured with Big Special and bring their own style of punk rock’n’roll, infectious and dancefloor friendly.
Other highlights of the day included Pom Poko, Christian Music, Baby Said and Brodie Milner. And as always there is the inevitable clashes but such was the quality of the line-up at Twisterella tough decisions had to be made. This reviewer was disappointed to miss Martha, the intruigingly named Perfect Chicken and Sun King, not least because the former was in a crypt at Middlesborough Town Hall!
Chalk were the headliners in the main room at the Teesside Union. The Belfast trio are going from strength to strength having just announced their EP Conditions III and an extensive tour for early next year. They brought their techno-inspired soundscapes to an appreciative crowd, but the set whizzed by, a good sign of course. Guitar and drums plus synths created a pulsating soundtrack to close out the day.
All in all a fantastic day in Middlesborough. A convivial atmosphere dominated the day which was packed with quality artists. Incredible value for money and venues which were all easy to locate and move between. Congratulations Twisterella on 10 years. Here’s to the next 10.
For more information on Twisterella please check out their website and facebook.
Photo Credits: Julia Mason
