Alternative music in Hull

A new academic year means new beginnings. This term, why not broaden your musical horizons? We give you the lowdown on the music worth lending an ear to in Hull.

House

If there’s any House music lovers out there, Déjà vu at The Welly is a must. Yes, it’s a little expensive at the door, but if it’s the best DJs you want to hear it is certainly worth it. This night is one of the longest running dance music nights in Hull and their list of previous DJ bookings reads like a who’s who of House music both commercial and underground. Make the trip down once in a while for a taste of Ibiza in cold, rainy Hull.

Drum ‘n’ Bass

If it’s Drum ‘n’ Bass you’re after then you need to get out to a Shinobi party. They host regular events at both The Welly and Lamp and last year had big name DJs such as Goldie, Adam F, Chase & Status, TC and Black Sun Empire come to play. If you’re lucky you might even get a bit of dubstep (a scarcity in Hull).  Definitely a weekend staple amongst student and local ravers alike. For people who like their Drum ‘n’ Bass a little deeper be sure to check out Dust who host nights at The Attic. These guys are still somewhat off the radar with students but with guest DJs last year including Total Science, Digital and Artificial Intelligence you’d be a fool to miss out. This is a unique night in Hull offering something for everyone from a musical perspective. Both big names and new, exciting acts share the stage at these parties. You can expect to hear anything from Hip Hop and Breaks through to Dubstep and live Drum ‘n’ Bass. Be sure to check out The Funky & Shinobi Alternative End of Year Ball for one of the best and busiest nights of the year.

Joe Ingledew

Classical

Performances run all year round in Hull, but here are a few to help you start off the academic year with a bit of class. First up  is the beginning of a series of events on home turf: a piano recital by Mark Bebbington on Friday 3rd October on the University of Hull’s new Steinway Piano (a replacement following damage to the music departments instruments in last year’s flood). Moving swiftly on to 4th November, there is a production of the Nutcracker ballet at the New Theatre, which continues until Saturday 8th. Later on in the month on the 29th the Hull Philharmonic Orchestra will be playing a selection of popular classics at Hull City Hall, including Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture (the one with the cannons) and Mascagni’s Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana (the one in Raging Bull) amongst others. The series of piano concerts at the University would be well worth a visit as they may include chances to engage in discussion and avoid huge audiences. However, if you’re after big orchestras doing big performances, the November City Hall and New Theatre events would be fitting and also include good student discounts.

George Cooper

Funk and Soul

If you’re not of an Indie disposition then fear not, Hull offers a surprisingly wide array of wholly alternative nights out. As always, The Adelphi Club is part of this, featuring Payback on the penultimate Friday of the month. Purveying a wonderful selection of jazz, funk and soul, all in the club’s homely surroundings. Think low lighting, candles on tables, eccentric locals, equally impressive eccentric dance styles and a need to jostle for dancing-room; this event is a sweaty delight. Personal favourite though this may be, The Lamp also showcases great DJs playing similar music on selected weekends. The perennial favourite Funky is more popular than ever; a guaranteed gloriously diverse melee of musical genres; find it at The Welly, Asylum, Lamp or Adelphi. Finally, Sundays at the Linnet and Lark sees Mak of The Sesh departing from his usual fare of home grown talent and offering an evening of soul classics. Time for those dancing shoes methinks.

Hannah Corner