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A post shared by Amber’s (@ambers.club)

This move aims to eliminate distractions and foster deeper connections between clubbers and DJs, allowing for a more authentic and engaging nightlife experience. According to the club’s founders, the policy has received overwhelming support, with many attendees praising the initiative for enhancing the communal energy of the dance floor.

Amber’s is not the first venue in the UK to enforce such a policy. Clubs like Berlin’s infamous Berghain have long maintained a strict no-phone rule, but similar approaches are now emerging across the UK. In London, Fabric has encouraged guests to minimize phone use, whilst Glasgow’s Sub Club has also experimented with no-camera policies to maintain a more organic clubbing environment.

@its.kmo_ Inside Berghain The most iconic building of Berlin about which everyone whispers tips how to get in. The easiest way is to visit one of the exhibition in Halle am Berghain #berlin #berghain #berlinart #exhibition ♬ C-Quence Of Calamities – Sedef Adasi Remix – BASHKKA

The rise of phone-free nightlife reflects a broader trend of nostalgia for the pre-smartphone club era, where music and human interaction were at the heart of the experience. As social media continues to shape nightlife culture, more venues may adopt this approach to create more intimate and memorable experiences for clubbers.

Cellphones & Social Media changed Partying & Club Life Globally. You see ppl on their phones, taking pics, texting & posting pics on social media. We DANCED in the 90’s. We sat at the BAR & had drinks w/Women & actually TALKED, then Danced again. The Club use 2B an experience. pic.twitter.com/NPmTjHOttU

— TonyDaDome (@TonyDaDome) February 19, 2022

Phones shouldn’t be allowed in clubs or bars. We should be there to meet NEW people, not text people we already know.

— Nēv Schulman (@NevSchulman) June 7, 2014

Whether Amber’s sets a lasting precedent for UK nightlife remains to be seen, but early reactions suggest that clubgoers are ready to put their phones away and get lost in the music once again.

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Known for their groundbreaking sound and layered, immersive production, My Bloody Valentine reshaped the alternative rock landscape with their 1991 album ‘Loveless‘, widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. It peaked at #7 on the UK Album Chart. Their signature blend of distorted guitars, ethereal vocals, and intricate production techniques made them pioneers of the shoegaze genre, inspiring countless artists in the decades since.

While My Bloody Valentine is more known for their critically acclaimed albums than chart-topping singles, ‘Soon’ from ‘Loveless‘ remains one of their most iconic tracks. The song, featuring swirling guitar loops and a hypnotic dance beat, was revolutionary for its time, blending elements of shoegaze and electronic music in a way that was years ahead of its era.

With their upcoming tour, the band’s return to UK stages is set to be one of the most significant live music events of the year. Tickets for the tour go on sale April 4, and given the band’s cult status, they are expected to sell out quickly. There is also an opportunity to sign up to the band’s newsletter for pre-sale options before March 31. Whilst, there has been no official confirmation of additional UK dates yet, fans are encouraged to stay updated through the band’s official website for any future announcements.

RECORD STORE DAY 2025

A blockbuster weekend of record shopping, live music, DJ sets and all the best that indie record store culture has to offer. Record Store Day returns Saturday 12th April!

Hit the link for everything #RSD25 at Rough Trade.@RSDUKhttps://t.co/X4ahhEl35J pic.twitter.com/fVzumkYLDQ

— Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) March 24, 2025

This year’s RSD boasts an impressive lineup of limited-edition vinyl releases from a diverse array of artists:

Oasis: The Britpop icons reissue ‘Time Flies… (1994-2009)‘, featuring remastered audio and new packaging. This numbered box set includes four colored LPs, marking its first vinyl release since 2010.
Taylor Swift: Fans can look forward to a special 7″ white vinyl of ‘Fortnight‘, featuring Post Malone, from her Grammy-nominated album ‘The Tortured Poets Department‘ (2024).
The Cure: A picture disc edition of their sixth studio album, ‘Head on the Door‘ (1985), will be available, offering collectors a visually distinctive version of this classic record.
Adam Ant: ‘Prince Charming‘ (1981) which has been long out of print is coming back in a special gold vinyl edition.
The Charlatans: The reissue of ‘The Only One I Know‘ as a 12” picture disc features their iconic 1990 single, newly remastered at Abbey Road Studios by Frank Arkwright. It’s the first time the track is available as a picture disc.

For a full list of exclusive releases, visit the official RSD UK website.

Beyond exclusive releases, RSD 2025 features a variety of events and live performances:

Rough Trade East (London): Performances by Swamp, Heather Nova, Fiona-Lee, Gewalt, The Nightinghales, Panchiko, Tough Cookie, Raining Blue, and Sam Akpro. DJ sets include Kate Goodrum, MRCY Soundsystem, Emanuel Pavlova, Mr Bongo, Shame, and DOTWAVNOTWAVE.
Rough Trade West (London): Featuring Sarabeth Tucek, mini-Mekons, The Limiñanas, and Martin Luke Brown.
Rough Trade Nottingham: Hosting Bored Marsh, ronnietoldus, The Housecat Collective, Chloe Rodgers, Sancho Panza, Gigi Gold, Airport Dad, and PASTE.
Rough Trade Liverpool: Performances by The Molotovs, Remée, Hank Bee, Cruush, and Sara Wolff.
Rough Trade Bristol: Featuring Krooked Tongue, a secret set (TBA), Split Chain, DYE, Seneca, and Mass House, with DJ sets by Des Lennis, The Vibe, and Stevebob.

ROUGH TRADE WEST

Live music will return to Talbot Road with some very special acoustic performances from Sarabeth Tucek, @TheMekons, @theliminanas and @martinlukebrown, playing outside the Rough Trade West shop.

FREE ENTRY RSVPhttps://t.co/D6GWeOVoID pic.twitter.com/MfUta5CnGL

— Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) March 24, 2025

Aside from the Rough Trade stores, other indepedent record stores will also participate, including:
Sister Ray (London)
Banquet Records (Kingston Upon Thames)
Resident (Brighton)
Spillers Records (Cardiff) - the world’s oldest record store
Crash Records (Leeds)
Piccadilly Records (Manchester)

hundreds of people queuing to get into our record shop for Record Store Day #RSD24 pic.twitter.com/R4gl8l6yUS
— Banquet Records (@BanquetRecords) April 20, 2024

Each of these stores will have their own exclusive vinyl releases, live performances, DJ sets, and special events to celebrate RSD. As RSD 2025 approaches, fans are encouraged to support local record stores, enjoy live performances, and explore exclusive releases, celebrating the vibrant culture of independent music retail.

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Formed in 2007, JLS rose to fame as runners-up on The X Factor in 2008. Despite not winning, they achieved remarkable success with five UK number-one singles and six top-ten albums. Their debut single ‘Beat Again’, released in 2009, topped the UK Singles Chart and remains their best-selling track. Following a hiatus in 2013, JLS reunited for the ‘Beat Again’ tour in 2021 and continued with the ‘Everybody Say JLS: The Hits’ tour in 2023. Their upcoming 2025 tour marks their third in five years, underscoring their enduring popularity. Fans eagerly anticipate the chance to relive the band’s chart-topping hits live on stage. With a history of energetic performances and a string of beloved songs, ‘The Club Is Alive: 2025 Hits’ tour promises to be a highlight for concertgoers this autumn.

Seeing JLS again in November for the first time since 2010 omg
— RACH (@rachelisabel_1) March 26, 2025

The special guest Example is a British singer, rapper, songwriter, and record producer known for his fusion of electronic, hip-hop, and dance music. He gained prominence in the late 2000s and early 2010s with a string of UK chart hits. His most popular track in the UK is ‘Changed the Way You Kiss Me’, which reached #1 on the UK Singles Chart in 2011.
The tour kicks off on November 6 at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro and concludes with two nights at London’s O2 Arena on November 28 and 29. Tickets go on general sale on Friday, March 28, at 10 am. For further updates and pre-sale tickets, visit the band’s official website.

The tour kicks off on Wednesday, August 13th, at Frequency Festival in Austria, before hitting major European festivals, including Lowlands Festival in the Netherlands, Cabaret Vert in France, and Rock En Seine in Paris. UK fans can look forward to Suki’s highly anticipated appearances at the Reading and Leeds Festivals on August 22nd and 24th, before her headline London date. She will also perform in Belfast at the Ulster Hall on August 28th.

These performances will showcase songs from Waterhouse’s critically acclaimed albums, including her 2024 release ‘Memoir of a Sparklemuffin‘, alongside tracks from her debut album ‘I Can’t Let Go‘ and the ‘Milk Teeth‘ EP, featuring her platinum-selling hit ‘Good Looking’.

Suki Waterhouse’s album ‘Memoir of a Sparklemuffin‘ did not produce any singles that charted on the UK’s Official Singles Chart. However, the album itself achieved some recognition, peaking at number 46 on the Official Scottish Albums Chart and number 39 on the Official Albums Sales Chart. The album includes hits such as ‘My Fun’, ‘OMG‘, and ‘To Love‘. ‘My Fun’ made it into MXDWN’s ‘Top 30 Songs of 2024‘.

Waterhouse’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric, with her sold-out 2024 US tour spanning over 30 shows and a high-profile support slot for Taylor Swift during the Eras Tour in London. With an ever-growing fanbase and a dynamic catalogue of music, Suki Waterhouse’s UK and EU tour promises to be an unmissable event for fans eager to experience her captivating live performances. Her full tour schedule and ticket information is available on her official website.

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The initiative comes amid growing concerns over cuts to arts funding and the diminishing role of music in the national curriculum. Reports have shown that music education in state schools has suffered significantly over the past decade, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. The open letter argues that without proper funding, music will become an exclusive privilege for wealthier students, further deepening inequalities in the industry.

Sheeran, who himself benefited from state-funded programmes in his youth, stressed the importance of ensuring that young people, regardless of background, have the chance to pursue a career in music. In his Instagram post, the musician said: “As a young music student and aspiring artist, I benefited from opportunities in and out of school to learn & grow. Unfortunately, after decades of defunding and de-prioritising, music is no longer a right for all children – it’s a luxury for only a few.”

Other notable artists who have co-signed the letter include Paloma Faith, Annie Lennox, and Myles Smith, who also commented on Sheeran’s post stating: “Governments need to realise the importance of music not only as a cultural export and financial hub, but as the foundation and key feature of our society and community. Growing up in working-class Luton, access to music wasn’t just a way out – it was a way of living. It gave me purpose, belonging, and a voice. That’s why investing in music matters. It changes lives. It changed mine.” In January 2025, Sheeran has established the Ed Sheeran Foundation, aiming to empower children across the UK with meaningful music education. The foundation seeks to address the decline in music education within state schools by providing support and advocating for equal access to high-quality music programs. ​

 

 

 

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A post shared by Ed Sheeran Foundation (@edsheeranfnd)

Additionally, The UK-based charity, Youth Music, invests in grassroots organisations and young creatives to ensure all young people have access to music. Over 25 years, Youth Music has invested over £263 million to secure music’s future and improve industry representation, making the next generation of creative talent more diverse and inclusive.​In November 2024, they partnered with Spotify to create a dedicated fund aimed at supporting 15 grassroots youth spaces across the UK that were facing imminent closure or struggling to survive.

The letter calls for a long-term funding commitment to improve music education infrastructure, hire specialist teachers, and provide instruments to students in need. Whilst the government has yet to issue a formal response, campaigners hope that growing public support will put pressure on policymakers to act swiftly. This bold move by Sheeran and his fellow artists signals a crucial moment for the future of music education in the UK.

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The new singles ‘Love Me More’ and ‘Confession’ mark a significant moment for Louise, who last released an album ‘Heavy Love‘ in 2020. ‘Love Me More’ is an uplifting, synth-driven anthem that showcases her polished vocals and emotive lyricism. The track delivers a powerful message of resilience and ambition, drawing on themes of personal growth and determination.

Alongside ‘Love Me More’, the singer also dropped ‘Confession’, an upbeat, dance-infused pop track that exudes confidence and empowerment. The song’s stripped-back arrangement allows her vocals to shine, offering a nostalgic yet fresh sound that aligns with her past successes whilst appealing to today’s pop and R&B audience.

Louise left Eternal in 1995, before the release of their second album ‘Power of a Woman‘. She then wanted to pursue a solo career and have more creative control over her music. Her solo career launched successfully in 1996 with her debut album ‘Naked‘, which included the hit title track ‘Naked’ that peaked at #5 on the UK Singles Chart. Louise quickly established herself as a pop artist in her own right, moving towards a more mainstream, radio-friendly sound compared to Eternal’s R&B influences.

‘Confessions‘ promises to be a mix of dance-pop anthems and heartfelt ballads. The new album could strike a balance between nostalgic nods to her 90s roots and fresh, contemporary sounds. Following the singles’ release, Louise has been actively engaging with her audience on social media. Additionally, rumours of a UK tour later this year have sparked excitement amongst fans, with many eager to see her perform live once again. Louise’s return proves that she remains a force within in the pop music landscape, ready to reclaim her place at the top.

The EP features the lead single ‘Your Anthem’, a track Bowie wrote at the age of 15, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into his early songwriting journey. Other notable tracks include ‘Dream Of My Own’ and ‘Wherever She Goes’, both of which have garnered significant attention in the lead-up to the EP’s release. The project is available across all major streaming platforms and for purchase on CD and vinyl formats.

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Bowie’s musical journey began in Banchory, Aberdeenshire. He started playing guitar at the age of eight, drawing inspiration from artists like Sam Fender, Ed Sheeran, and Nina Nesbitt. Over the years, he has cultivated a robust online presence, particularly on TikTok, where his engaging performances have gained a substantial following. The singer-songwriter’s most popular song in the UK is currently ‘Love Lost‘, which has over 2 million listens on Spotify.

@calumbowiemusic these boys have been making singing out the window that bit more fun #fyp #edinburgh #wonderwall #oasis #tiktok #insta #viral #funny ♬ original sound – calumbowie

In 2024, Bowie was honoured with the Scottish Breakthrough Artist of the Year award at the Scottish Music Awards, joining the ranks of previous recipients such as Paolo Nutini, Lewis Capaldi, and Emeli Sandé. His live performances have resonated with audiences across the UK and Europe. Notably, he has graced the stages of prominent festivals, including Glastonbury, TRNSMT, and Kendal Calling, further cementing his status in the contemporary music scene.

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A post shared by Calum Bowie (@calumbowiemusic)

As of March 2025, Bowie’s music has attracted over 125,820 monthly listeners on Spotify, with cumulative streams surpassing 10 million globally. His authentic storytelling and relatable themes continue to captivate a diverse and growing audience, marking him as a significant emerging talent in the UK music industry. The musician is currently finishing his UK tour on which he has already included the new tracks. ‘Through The Window‘ offers both long-time fans and new listeners an opportunity to experience Bowie’s artistic versatility and emotional depth.

Charli xcx was spotted filming a cab scene outside of the O2 in London for her upcoming film, ‘The moment’ pic.twitter.com/CDUFjGlEdr

— what did charli watch today? (@charliwatched) March 19, 2025

While specific plot details remain under wraps, the mockumentary is expected to blur the lines between documentary and scripted storytelling, capturing both the highs and pressures of being a modern-day pop star. The film’s cast includes actor Alexander Skarsgård and comedian Jamie Demetriou, hinting at a mix of drama and humour. Given Charli XCX’s history of innovative and genre-defying work, ‘The Moment’ is likely to reflect her signature bold and unconventional style.

| Insiders said “Charli is basically playing herself in The Moment and it’s inspired by her story, it’s the story of a pop star prepping for her first headline arena tour, and will show fans exactly what goes into that and how it affects the person at the centre of it all.” https://t.co/P8jMB7dhPD
— allypally (@allypallyxcx) March 19, 2025

Charli XCX first gained attention in the early 2010s with underground electro-pop tracks before breaking into the mainstream with hits like ‘Boom Clap‘ and collaborations with artists such as Iggy Azalea (‘Fancy‘) and Icona Pop (‘I Love It‘). Over the years, she has cemented her reputation as a forward-thinking artist, balancing experimental hyperpop projects with mainstream success. The singer’s sixth studio album ‘Brat‘ (2024) marked a pivotal moment in her career, propelling her from the fringes of pop experimentation to mainstream acclaim.

With ‘The Moment’, Charli XCX is once again breaking new ground but this time in film. While she has not announced immediate plans to return to music after this project, she has a packed schedule for 2025. She has been announced as the first headliner for Manchester’s Parklife festival and will also take the stage at LIDO Festival, where she has personally curated the lineup for her performance day involving artists such as 070 Shake and The Dare.

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As production continues, anticipation for ‘The Moment’ is building. Whether the film will premiere in theaters or debut on a streaming platform has yet to be confirmed. However, with Charli XCX at the helm, one thing is certain – it will be anything but conventional.

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Known for their unique blend of post-punk, classical, and electronic influences, the band has developed a cult following since their formation in 2006 by twin brothers Jack and George Barnett. ‘Crooked Wing‘ is expected to expand on the band’s signature atmospheric soundscapes and evocative lyricism.

These New Puritans first gained widespread attention with their 2008 debut album ‘Beat Pyramid‘, but it was their 2010 release ‘Hidden‘ that cemented their status as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking bands. The album, featuring brass and percussive elements alongside eerie electronic undertones, was critically acclaimed for its avant-garde approach. Their most recognised track from this second debut album is ‘We Want War’, which has gained over 1 million listens on Spotify and Youtube.

The band has already released two tracks from this upcoming album, ‘Bells’ and ‘Industrial Love Song’. ‘Bells’ originated from a field recording of a bell in a small Orthodox Greek church, which became the foundation of the track. The song features a rich sonic palette, including organs, ancient bells, and pitched percussion, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience.

‘Industrial Love Song’ is a collaboration with Caroline Polachek. The narrative explores themes of connection and longing, reflecting on the human-like qualities of machines. The accompanying music video, directed by Harley Weir, visually complements the song’s themes.

Fans eager for a preview of the album won’t have to wait long as the band is set to release the lead single in early April. Alongside the album announcement, These New Puritans are expected to tour UK and Europe later in 2025, with dates possibly expected to be announced in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the band is going to perform at the EartH in Hackney, London on June 12. Tickets are available to purchase on DICE. For further updates, you can visit the band’s Instagram.