Crystal
For a few years now, Crystal has regularly played host to one of the best fringe line-ups at Tramlines, and this year is no exception. Programmed by Aggressive Management, the live music kicks off at 6.30pm Friday and there’s no let up until close of play Sunday. Among the top acts on the bill are long-running indie tunesters Alvarez Kings, anthemic rock purveyors Sabella as well as bluesy rock and roll meisters Liberty Ship. You could literally bed yourself in here all weekend.
Universal Tree
Art Attacks!
Delve Deeper
Of course, Tramlines is about more than music. It’s always been celebrated by the whole city with all sorts of events and activities. This year is no different. Starting at midday on Saturday and Sunday, Barkers Pool presents some of the biggest names in festival and street performance for your delectation. Curated by Professor Vanessa Toumlin at The University of Sheffield, it also offers a food, drink, craft and entertainment area in conjunction with Yellow Bus Events.
In a festival where there are class artists around every corner, it seems unfair to single one out, but we’d be failing in our duty if we didn’t suggest that you get yourselves along to Leopold Square to see Universal Tree. This Sheffieldbased act play a winning blend of neo-psychedelic classic Blaxploitation genres. Think the best of soul and funk fired through with infectious grooves and stellar vox. With Grammy-nominated members responsible for multiple worldwide hits collectively, this is a set not to miss.
As Tramlines celebrates its 10th year, one of the festival’s finest fringe parties is back with a bang. Delve Deeper will be taking over Bloo 88 all day Saturday once again, inside and outside, and this year they’re bringing highly-rated Dutch soul, jazz and disco infused house DJ Cleanfield over to headline their enormous free party. Supporting Cleanfield on the terrace will be Delve Deeper regulars Jenny Fu, Liam Connolly, Dave Platts, Duncan Allott and Jamie Williamson.
Self Esteem (aka Rebecca Taylor)
Bolstering its reputation as one of Sheff's hippest hangouts, a superb line-up at Picture House Social will see Rebecca Taylor performing live. One half of the Sheff’s coolest ramshackle indie-pop band Slow Club, now the creative force behind Self Esteem and the awesome debut ‘Your Wife’ – a slice of synth-pop magic so good it pretty much buried the opposition in the field. As a way to kick off your Saturday, frankly, it’s pretty darned good.
the fringe at tramlines programme | 7