It's always a pleasure to go to a gig that has been put on of for a deeper reason. Mencap sessions curated by ambassador Jo Whiley bought alive St John in Hackney Church. Incredible line-ups with today's most eclectic artists, from Ollie Murs and Gary Barlow, Amy Macdonald and Lucy Rose right through to Noah and The Whale and Richard Hawley.
When Jack Daniels celebrate a birthday, they know how to do it in style. Most people get a group of their mates, hit the local nightclubs and get plastered. This weekend, JD took birthday parties to a whole new level. Creating a musical heaven tucked away in 'The Devils Arse' up in Sheffield's Peak District, they turned a unusual tourist spot into a stunning live music backdrop.
With grace, honour and unrivalled wisdom, Sister Bliss and Maxi Jazz stood proudly tall in a venue that saw them play their first ever full live gig alongside band member Rollo back in 1996. Holding the highest respect from anyone who has ever had the pleasure to work or play alongside them, Faithless have walked the journey of most who have graced the Jazz Cafe's famous stage.
With the iTunes festival taking over Camden's Roundhouse, artists from all over the world have been bought together to take to the stage in the Capital. As one of the most talented and humble guys in the music industry, Labrinth has had an extraordinary year. With his album 'Electronic Earth' making steady waves, he has bounced his way across the main stages of the biggest festivals this summer.
When an artist has the backing of some of the music industry's biggest names, you know the future is looking pretty bright. With Prince and Stevie Wonder as fans and Zane Lowe choosing 'Is Your Love Big Enough?' as his 'Hottest Record In The World', Lianne La Havas has already earned herself huge respect with muso's worldwide...
Having seen Jay James Picton hit The Jazz Cafe at the beginning of the year I knew where the night was headed. The Borderline filled with some of the finest faces in the industry, all waiting in anticipation at what Picton had to offer. With an awesome line-up of supporting artists and DJ's, here is a guy that is not messing around. He has a very clear vision of what he wants and how he wants his music to be heard.