Newcastle's music scene

Anyone who thinks that Newcastle doesn't have a thriving music scene clearly hasn't been there. The city is home to such famed artists as Sting, Dire Straits and more recently the up-and-coming Maximo Park.

Those interested in the history of music will be aware that sixties rock group The Animals emerged from the city, gigging at Tyneside nightclubs such as Club A-Go-Go. The seventies saw the birth of Venom, reckoned by many to be the originators of Black Metal, while influential record label Kitchenware Records – home to The Lighthouse Family and Fatima Mansions – was formed in the eighties.

While the A-Go-Go club may have a-go-gone – taking with it the joys of the sixties – there's still more than enough to enjoy in the way of live music. Euro Hostel takes you on a tour of the must-visit venues of the city for hardcore music fanatics.

Bernaccia
Tucked away in a little cobbled backstreet, this pretty little bar has it all – drinks, comfort and excellent music. Showcasing some of the finest DJs and live bands that Newcastle has to offer, Bernaccia is lively, atmospheric and extremely trendy.

A good selection of seating means that you'll be entirely comfortable when you slip in to listen to some up-and-coming vibes, and a dark mystical feel to the place contributes a great deal towards the general feel.

If you're after a quieter night, try the Tuesday evening acoustic sessions, which are generally packed with talented singer/songwriter folk. Acts usually perform three or four songs, so you'll get to see a great deal of variety. And who knows, you might even see the next Adele or David Bowie singing away while clutching nervously at their guitar. 1-3 Side, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 3JE, 0191 260 5076.

Cluny
Everybody in Newcastle knows about Cluny. This famous – and sometimes infamous – pub hosts a variety of live music acts every month. A key player in the underground music scene of the city, the venue has played a role in many an upcoming music star's career.

The pub has a dedicated following, and recently managed to open a second venue entitled Cluny 2, dedicated especially for live music performances. This theatre-style location is beautifully decorated and a fantastic place to experience a gig, whether you want to jump up and down with a group of hardcore metal fans or sit at a table and gently nod along to some folk music. Cluny and Cluny 2 showcase such a wide selection of artists that there's something for everyone.

A wide selection of drinks and pub food also serves in the pub's favour, but it's the intimate nature of this venue that makes the atmosphere so special. There aren't many places in Newcastle where you can feel so close to a band while at the same time feeling that you're at a gig of the highest standard, thanks to the excellent sound system that they use. The Cluny, 36 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2PQ, 0191 230 4474.

Jazz CafeAttention all you cool cats out there. If you love jazz, have we got a treat for you. Open from ten o'clock onwards, we recommend staying until the early hours in order to get the full experience, and of course it would be rude not to sample their extensive wine list.

Genuine jazz within the city can be difficult to find, and if you've found yourself pining for some Duke Ellington or Nat King Cole, then prepare to be blown away. Sure, the actual artists themselves might not feature here (unless the owner has been having a seance in the back room) but the talent of some of these amateurs will sweep you off your feet in the way only those bluesy cats know how.

The jazz cafe is amazingly informal, with a great supportive atmosphere so if you're a musician, why not get up and play a few ditties yourself? Local friendly musicians will be happy to lend you an instrument and you can either take to the stage solo or just strum along with everyone else. As the saying goes – "Play it again, Sam." 25 Pink Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5DW, 0191 232 6505.

The O2 Academy
Listening to underground talent in various bars and clubs is all very well, and it's great for variety, but there are times when you'll want to experience the latest rock or pop sensation with a thousand other music enthusiasts, all roaring the lyrics to the same song. If you're in Newcastle, the O2 Academy is the place to visit for just such an evening.

Attracting the likes of Halestorm, Bowling for Soup and local heroes Maximo Park as well as numerous tribute bands, the O2 is where it's happening. With opportunities for free gigs and of course, the UK's biggest indie night Propaganda every Saturday, there's no reason to stay away from this fantastic venue during your stay. O2 Academy Newcastle,Westgate Road, NE1 1SW, 0844 477 2000.

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