Features

A collection of news features about Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, and/or music.

Back in the groove: why are vinyl records becoming mainstream again?
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Back in the groove: why are vinyl records becoming mainstream again?

For the majority of the 20th century, vinyl records reigned supreme in the music world as they were one of the only widely available music formats. However, the craze for vinyl records slowly dwindled as its competition rose to fame throughout the late 20th and early 21st century. Image credit: Amy Mescus From the 1970s and 80s came the cassette tape and the CD. They were highly praised for their compact nature and ability to skip to specific songs. They are also portable - a game-changer for avid music listeners - and a lot cheaper than your standard vinyl record. Adjusted for inflation, the average vinyl record price in the 1980's was £25, whilst the average CD price was £13. Digital streaming was legitimately introduced in Europe and the UK in 2004 by iTunes, reaching 6.1 milli...
Doing it Ourselves: Inside the Newcastle Live Music Community
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Doing it Ourselves: Inside the Newcastle Live Music Community

Independent music venues throughout Newcastle are struggling - not just financially, but emotionally too. After years of empty promises and a lack of support from the local council, the people of Newcastle’s live music community feel as though they only have each other to turn to. Newcastle is a city that is renowned for its vibrant live music culture, with the community being at the heart of it. The Toon has been religiously praised for how welcoming and supportive everyone involved is. Eli Stephenson, 20, says "I've been to gigs all over the country, but the energy that Newcastle brings is like no other - the community is so friendly". Image of The Cluny. Taken by Amy Mescus. However, Newcastle's live music scene would have no leg to stand on if it was not for the independent ve...