Leeds’ Live Scene: Unmissable Music Gigs and Events in August 2023

As the calendar flips to the month of August, the city begins to hum with a melody of its own. The electric suspense hangs in the air, alongside an atmospheric excitement that resonates with every music lover’s heart. The city  invites solo artists, local bands, and international maestros ready to weave magic with their tunes. And, let’s not forget the crescendo of this musical extravaganza, the highly anticipated festivals! So tighten your laces, grab your sunnies, and let’s dance our way into August - summer highlights and unforgettable memories awaits!

In the City, a collection of venues are opening their doors to a diverse selection of artists and bands. From the all-too-well Brudenell Social Club, Project House, Belgrave Music Hall, Boom, First Direct Arena, The Key Club, and Hyde Park Book Club are preparing to welcome eager music makers. These artists and bands include Even As We Speak, Adnan Sami, Joey Valence & Brea, Converge, Swans, Frontierer, The Walkmen, and the indie charm of Oscar Lang. 

But that is not all - for those with a penchant for festivals and large-scale events, Millennium Square, Bramham Park, and Mint Warehouse and Belgrave Musice Hall are hosting a myriad of exciting events (that most of you may already know!). These events involve the uplifting Gospel Explosion, The Popworld Festival, Mint Festival Warm Up Terrace Party, and of course… Leeds Festival! So nab them tickets and be prepared to be swept off your feet by the incredible talent heading our way this month!

We start off with an exciting performance at the iconic Brudenell Social Club, where the Australian indie band ‘Even As We Speak’ takes over the stage on the 1st of August. This Sydney-born band is a supernova of contradictions, combining intelligent pop with a distinct experimental influence. Their music, a vivid illumination of the indie pop era will draw you into their chaotic brilliance. So, be prepared to be swept away by their exceptional performance and unique charm.

Next, the First Direct Arena prepares to welcome a multi-talented virtuoso, Adnan Sami. Known as the world’s fastest keyboard player, Sami’s musical prowess has been undeniable since he was only seven. Despite only ever taking one music class in school, he managed to master the piano with professional finesse. This Pakistani-born musician, who grew up in the UK, has earned accolades as an actor, composer, singer, and pianist, and has a reputation for mesmerizing his audience with his innovative performances. As he takes the stage this August 11, be prepared to be swept away by the captivating melodies and brilliant technique of this artist.

On the 12th of August, Oscar Lang will grace the stage at Hyde Park Book Club! This London-based artist, known for his soft indie/alternative melody, perfectly encapsulates the essence of teenage experiences, spinning narratives of youthful misadventures and escapades. Lang meticulously layers each instrument to construct expansive soundscapes that lend a unique texture to his music.

As we continue our journey through the vibrant music scene of August, we find ourselves enveloped in the rhythmic beats of the hip-hop duo Joy Valence & Brae at the Belgrave Music Hall on the 18th. Hailing from Centre County, Pennsylvania, they’re here to revive a sound that is both nostalgic and catchy. So, don’t delay - secure your tickets and make your way to the Belgrave Music Hall for a musical experience that would get you dancing!

Next up is the captivating spectacle of Converge, set to rock the stage in Boom on the 18th of August. This 4-piece band, hailing from Salem, Massachusetts, has been redefining the music landscape since their formation in February 1990. They have pioneered the genres of metalcore and mathcore, skillfully combining elements of extreme metal and hardcore punk. Despite their long-standing presence in the scene, they’ve retained their marvelous aggression and hostility—an art form they perform at a deafening volume. Don’t miss this chance to witness Converge’s dynamic and compelling live show.

Belgrave Music Hall is gearing up for a night that you cannot miss on the 19th of August, as the venue will be dominated by American post-punk band, Swans! Originally active from 1982 to 1997, Swans, led by singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Michael Gira, have made an indelible mark on the music industry and still continue to do so. Swans have continued to mesmerize their audience with their unique brand of live shows, promising an evening of unforgettable musical escapade.

We also have an exciting performance from Frontierer on the 19th of August at The Key Club. With roots in Scotland, Portugal, and America, Frontierer has evolved from a digital collaboration between Pedram Valiani and Chad Kapper into a live band, championing a ‘for free’ music model and a performance schedule based on convenience! With the recent anniversary of their debut album ‘Orange Mathematics’, Frontierer is on a journey with a mission to take their music to as many corners of the globe as possible - so join in and be a part of their adventure!

On the 22nd of August, Project House will reverberate to the pulsating rhythms of The Walkmen, a band that will provide a musical feast that echoes of The Velvet Underground, the raw energy of ‘Boy’-era U2, the soulful resonance of Jeff Buckley, and the psychedelic vibes of Mercury Rev. The Walkmen take these established influences and propel them into an innovative and inspiring realm, earning them the accolade of being ‘one of the most exciting commodities to come out of the US since the heyday of Sonic Youth.’ This performance promises to be a night filled with dance and music. 

In addition to the thrill of witnessing performances by these incredible artists, there is an escalating excitement for upcoming festivals and large-scale events for this month!

Commencing on the 3rd of August is the highly anticipated Gospel Explosion at Millennium Square. This event is a celebration of life, hope, and spirituality, brought to life through the rhythm and soul of gospel music that features some of the best Gospel artists and choirs from Leeds and outside of the city.

For the pop music enthusiasts, get your tickets and be prepared for Popworld Festival which is set to take over Millennium Square on Saturday 5th August! This year, they are  pulling out all the stops to make the festival bigger, better, and more electrifying than ever before. From catchy pop tunes to a vibrant atmosphere, everything you love about Popworld will be amplified on this day. But that’s not all! They have meticulously curated an impressive line-up of renowned acts and emerging artists such as Ronan Keating, Claire Richards, B*Witches, Chesney Hawkes and DJ Casper.

Moving forwards, it’s time to hold onto your hats, because from the 25th to the 27th of this month, Bramham Park is about to be electrified by (of course) the Leeds Festival! Get ready to groove to the chart-topping hits of phenomenally talented artists such as the enigmatic Billie Eilish, The 1975, Imagine Dragons, Chase Atlantic, Wet Leg, Lovejoy, Mimi Webb, and a plethora of other amazing acts. You better prepare yourself for a musical extravaganza that you won’t forget in a hurry!

Finally, the ultimate Mint Warehouse Warm Up Terrace party is upon us on August 27th and 28th. The renowned party seizes the legendary Mint Warehouse terrace for a day-to-night party, with the the day acts involving Moxy Muzik, featuring an extended 5-hour set by Darius Syrossian, supported by Olive F and others. As night falls, the long-anticipated return of Loco Dice to Mint Warehouse is welcomed by the system. If I were you, I would reserve my spot right now!

So, without further ado, with this treasure trove of gigs and events on the horizon, and many more to be announced, August is shaping up to be a symphony of excitement for music enthusiasts. Secure your tickets now, be a part of this fiesta, and see you there!