As more live events start this week, Ben explores once again what's going on in Leeds and talks to Toby from Leeds promoters Futuresounds.
He has started a new monthly jazz, funk and soul event, Last Time Out, with the events to be hosted at The Wardrobe and the first two shows seated and socially distanced. A third show has been announced this week too - this is what's confirmed so far: 22nd May – Feat. Steam Down, Isobella Burnham 26th June – Feat. Matthew Halsall, Jake Mehew
8th July - Feat. JASMINE + The Fergus Quill Trio
Aside from events, they are providing lots more wonderful content through sharing good local music. They have just released a superb live session from Leeds soul group Mamilah this week too - read all about Last Time Out below.
Tell us about Last Time Out and why this new event has started?
I’ve always loved jazz nights, I make a point wherever I go on holiday to seek at least one out. After being surrounded by the bustling music scene we have in Leeds for so long it made perfect sense to launch Last Time Out here, and at The Wardrobe which has deep jazz roots in the city dating back to the 90s (having hosted legends like Amy Winehouse and Tony Allen).
Why do you feel it is important to celebrate and share this kind of music in the city of Leeds?
The city of Leeds is vibrant with art in all its forms, we’re lucky enough to have a local ecosystem that supports and encourages creativity and diversity. Leeds perhaps doesn’t have the national reputation it should as one of the hot spots for Jazz, Soul and World, despite consistently churning out top quality musicians.
Last Time Out nights will combine local, national and international talent every month and aim to add another string to Leeds’ bow, and cement the city as a touring hot spot for the new explosion of jazz and soul artists we’ve ben witnessing over the past few years.
Talk to us about the artists / DJs you have booked and what we can expect from them?
We’ll be focussing mainly on supporting emerging talent and building a regular monthly community. Having a welcome space that a new artist can play to like-minded folk with a warm reception is so important, and often underappreciated. The response to the shows so far has proved that the Leeds public are rearing to support new artists in the genre and celebrate the return of live music. We’ll be collaborating with local DJ’s for each monthly showcase.
Who are you digging in the local Leeds and wider UK scene at the moment?
Locally – Mamilah, Skwid Ink, Space Dolphin, Yaatri.
Nationally – Steam Down, COLECTIVA, Yakul, Reuben James, Sons Of Kemet.
What have you missed the most about music since we have been in lockdown?
The community! I’ve missed meeting new gig-goers and bumping into friends at shows, it’s fair to say I took that for granted. I intend on making up for the lost time as soon as possible.
What plans are in store for Last Time Out the rest of this year?
We’ll be announcing more of our monthly nights very soon so keep an eye out! They’ll feature a variety of Jazz, Funk, Soul and World musicians from across the country, as well as some really great local collaborations.
Follow and keep up to date with Last Time Out here:
To find more details on these events, visit here:
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