Welcome to Fleckies, where we highlight the venues and creatives shaping local culture.
Today (Monday 26th January) marks the start of the 13th edition of Independent Venue Week, the UK’s annual, seven-day celebration of the grassroots spaces that keep live music alive. This year is the second biggest IVW ever, with 236 independently-owned venues taking part – a 10% increase on 2025 –
Some artists have a way of turning growing pains, daydreams and quiet moments into something that feels universal. Nish Faith is one of those artists. Playful, honest and deeply rooted in storytelling, her music captures the in-between stages of life – the moments of transformation, uncertainty and self-discovery that shape
Independent Venue Week returns on Monday 26th January, and ahead of the nationwide celebration of grassroots spaces, two new artist ambassadors have been announced. Falkirk’s explosive five-piece Brògeal and North Wales folk artist Eve Goodman will represent Scotland and Wales for IVW26, joining national ambassadors Nova Twins. The week will
Music Barn Festival has officially unveiled its full 2026 lineup, staking its claim as one of the UK’s small-but-mighty independent festivals. Returning to the Northamptonshire countryside on Saturday 6th June 2026, the festival steps confidently into its next chapter – blending global names, national favourites and a seriously exciting pool
Daal & Bass – the fast-rising platform spotlighting South Asian dance and electronic music – has announced its first official, fully programmed event. The debut night takes place in London at Vittoria Wharf Studio on Saturday 13 December 2025, marking a big moment for the culture-first brand that’s already built
There are some people in this scene who stand out not because they shout the loudest, but because of the way they move through the world. And for me, Charlie Wick is absolutely one of them. I honestly can’t pinpoint the exact moment we met, which in a way says
Some interviews just take their time to find the right moment… and this one’s been a long time coming. I first met Dean Church, better known to most as DjD, through a mutual friend, Stacy-James. But honestly, I’d heard his name long before that. In Kettering’s music circles, Dean’s the
Some people you meet on the scene just radiate good energy – the kind that reminds you exactly why you do what you do. For me, that was Mas Fuego. I first met the Mas Fuego trio through a mutual friend – MiddleGround (aka Scott Fouracre) – at his debut
There are certain people you meet on the scene who just light up a room – and for me, B-Line is one of them. I first met Blaine at his birthday event back in 2024 at Tunnel Club. It was my first ever Selecta night too, and it set the
