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  • AVA Belfast reveals full 2026 festival programme including afterparties, talks, workshops and more
  • THE SCRIPT announce new album ‘The User’s Guide To Being Human’ and huge UK & European arena headline tour
  • ALBUM REVIEW: The Coral – 388
  • Dexys Midnight Runners announce new album ‘LOVE’ following Heavenly Recordings signing
  • The Coral Surprise-Release Thirteenth Album ‘388’ and Share Video for “Let The Music Play”
XS Noize | Independent Music News
  • News
        • kneecap
          News

          AVA Belfast reveals full 2026 festival programme including afterparties, talks, workshops and more

          May 22, 2026

          AVA Belfast returns to Titanic Slipways on 29–30 May 2026, as the city prepares for what promises to be its biggest music weekend of the year. Hailed as “Techno Christmas,” or “Belfast Coachella” AVA is […]

          The Script
          News

          THE SCRIPT announce new album ‘The User’s Guide To Being Human’ and huge UK & European arena headline tour

          May 22, 2026

          The Script’s phenomenal and long-lasting success has seen them achieve six UK #1 albums and eight back home in Ireland, in the process exceeding 14 billion streams, 5 million album sales, and countless international Platinum […]

          Dexys Midnight Runners
          News

          Dexys Midnight Runners announce new album ‘LOVE’ following Heavenly Recordings signing

          May 21, 2026

          Having recently announced their signing to Heavenly Recordings, Dexys Midnight Runners have today announced details of their new album, LOVE, out on Friday 4th September 2026. LOVE is a deeply personal and emotionally rich album […]

  • Reviews
        • Album Reviews

          The Coral
          Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: The Coral – 388

          May 21, 2026

          The Coral have always thrived on instinct, but even by their standards, 388 feels like a beautifully unexpected detour. Arriving without teaser singles or algorithm-chasing fanfare, the Hoylake psych-pop veterans have delivered one of the […]

          ALBUM REVIEW: Ed O’Brien - Blue Morpho
          Album Reviews

          ALBUM REVIEW: Ed O’Brien – Blue Morpho

          May 20, 2026

          There has been a flurry of solo activity from the members of Radiohead in the ten years since A Moon Shaped Pool was released. In that same decade, the world has faced its share of […]

        • Book Reviews

          BOOK REVIEW: Y/N - Esther Yi
          Book Reviews

          BOOK REVIEW: Y/N – Esther Yi

          October 30, 2023

          K-Pop has reached an international audience. This year, BLACKPINK made history as the first K-pop band to headline a major UK festival at Hyde Park. The media’s coverage of BTS member’s enlistment into compulsory military […]

          BOOK REVIEW: Sophomore Songs by Clarke Geddes
          Book Reviews

          BOOK REVIEW: Sophomore Songs by Clarke Geddes

          August 29, 2023

          How does one become qualified to write a fictional music novel? The author of Sophomore Songs offers some clues. Growing up reading NME, doing a stint at Clash, drumming for several bands on and off, and […]

        • Classic Albums

          ‘Pop’ at 25: Looking back at the orphan child in U2's discography 2
          Classic Albums

          ‘Pop’ at 26: Looking back at the orphan child in U2’s discography

          March 3, 2022

          In March of 1997, 26 years ago, U2 released their much anticipated ninth studio album POP; for fans and critics alike, it quickly became their most polarizing release. There is a prevailing feeling that POP […]

          CLASSIC ALBUM: Duran Duran – Duran Duran 2
          Album Reviews

          CLASSIC ALBUM: Duran Duran – Duran Duran

          June 17, 2021

          This week sees the 40th anniversary of Duran Duran’s self-titled debut album. XS Noize looks back on this momentous release from a band that would become the ‘Fab Five’ of the ‘80s. It was December […]

        • Live Reviews

          LIVE REVIEW: Kiefer Sutherland proves his country credentials with a heartfelt Union Chapel performance
          Live Reviews

          LIVE REVIEW: Kiefer Sutherland proves his country credentials with a heartfelt Union Chapel performance

          May 14, 2026

          Kiefer Sutherland may be known across the world as an actor and producer, but on stage at Union Chapel, that part of his life felt almost beside the point. With his fourth album, Grey, due […]

          LIVE REVIEW: The Prodigy Bring Fire, Chaos and Emotion to Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena Credit: Alina Salihbekova
          Live Reviews

          LIVE REVIEW: The Prodigy Bring Fire, Chaos and Emotion to Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena

          May 7, 2026

          After more than 30 years, The Prodigy remain one of the most powerful live electronic acts on the planet — and their sold-out show at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena proved exactly why. The night began with […]

        • Round Up

          XS Noize Best Albums of 2018
          Round Up

          XS Noize Best Albums of 2018

          December 22, 2018

          2018 has been an incredible year for albums. The year saw the strongest new acts in decades release their debuts, as well as a number of alternative legends returning to top form. The world of dance […]

          The Best Of October 2018 PLAYLIST + ROUND-UP
          Round Up

          The Best Of October 2018 PLAYLIST + ROUND-UP

          October 29, 2018

          Welcome to the October 2018 edition of our monthly new music playlist, which is available to listen to and watch via YouTube. If you enjoy any of the songs featured here, we encourage you to support […]

        • In Focus

          IN FOCUS: Survivalist Bring the Thunder to Limelight 2, Belfast (with Foetal Juice, Existentialist & Suffer) Credit: Marc Leach
          IN FOCUS

          IN FOCUS: Survivalist Bring the Thunder to Limelight 2, Belfast (with Foetal Juice, Existentialist & Suffer)

          April 5, 2026

          As Storm Dave closed in on Northern Ireland, another storm was already gathering. Inside Limelight 2, Belfast, local metal titans Survivalist unleashed thunder of their own — a fitting backdrop for the release of their […]

          IN FOCUS// Ash ignite La Scala with career-spanning London show Credit: Denise Esposito
          IN FOCUS

          IN FOCUS// Ash ignite La Scala with career-spanning London show

          February 6, 2026

          On 3 February, Ash returned to La Scala for a blistering, high-energy London show. Packed wall to wall, the venue buzzed as the trio tore through a career-spanning set, seamlessly weaving in new material from […]

  • Gigs
        • December 10
          Gigs

          December 10 announce Ulster Hall, Belfast show for July 20th 2026

          April 2, 2026

          Britain’s brand-new boyband December 10 today announce December 10: The Next Step– kicking off in Edinburgh on Friday 10 July and wrapping in Dublin on Tuesday 21 July. “We loved our Introducing! run of shows […]

          White Denim
          Gigs

          White Denim set for Belfast return with Limelight 2 headline show on August 27th 2026

          March 30, 2026

          Formed in 2006, for approaching 20 years White Denim has been celebrated for their fearless blend of garage rock, soul, jazz fusion, psychedelia, and experimental improvisation. Based for much of that time in Austin, though […]

          Tom Jones
          Gigs

          Tom Jones to Play Dublin & Belfast Headline Shows This August 2026

          March 30, 2026

          Legendary Welsh singer and performer Tom Jones has announced a return to Ireland with a headline show within the idyllic grounds of Palmerstown House Estate, just 20 minutes from Dublin City Centre on Sunday 09th […]

  • Interviews
        • Col Gerrard
          Interviews

          INTERVIEW: Col Gerrard on his self-titled debut, touring with Boyzlife and what comes next

          April 20, 2026

          London-born singer-songwriter Col Gerrard has loved music from an early age, and that passion shines throughout his self-titled debut album. Drawing on a range of influences, the record takes listeners on an emotional journey, with […]

          Ganser
          Interviews

          INTERVIEW: Alicia Gaines on the Architecture of Ganser and Discomfort by Design

          April 12, 2026

          Chicago’s underground has always thrived in the margins, and few bands embody that restless, art-driven spirit quite like Ganser. Formed in the city’s DIY circuit, the group have carved out a reputation for wiry, confrontational […]

          Elles Bailey
          Interviews

          INTERVIEW: Elles Bailey on the Story Behind ‘Can’t Take My Story Away’

          March 9, 2026

          Singer-songwriter Elles Bailey released her latest album, Can’t Take My Story Away, at the beginning of this year. Produced by Luke Potashnick, the album is deeply personal and quietly powerful—rooted in resilience, reflection, and self-ownership. […]

  • Podcast
        • Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music, "Fire Escape Symphonies" and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285
          Podcast

          Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285

          May 19, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by BRIT and Ivor Novello-nominated singer-songwriter Nerina Pallot. Nerina joins Mark for a warm, honest and reflective conversation about her new career-spanning […]

          Broken Social Scene on 'Remember The Humans,' grief and why music still saves people | XS Noize Podcast #284
          Podcast

          Broken Social Scene on ‘Remember The Humans,’ grief and why music still saves us

          May 12, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Kevin Drew and Charles Spearin of Broken Social Scene. Kevin and Charles join Mark for a warm, reflective and deeply human […]

          da Googie
          Podcast

          Deb Googe & Cara Tivey on da Googie and bringing immersive sound to Belfast | XS Noize Podcast #283

          May 5, 2026

          In the latest episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Deb Googe and Cara Tivey for a thoughtful and exploratory conversation about their debut full-length album together, The Golden Thread. You […]

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  • In Focus

IN FOCUS

The best shots of the latest gigs from our super snappers.

IN FOCUS: Survivalist Bring the Thunder to Limelight 2, Belfast (with Foetal Juice, Existentialist & Suffer) Credit: Marc Leach
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS: Survivalist Bring the Thunder to Limelight 2, Belfast (with Foetal Juice, Existentialist & Suffer)

April 5, 2026 Marc Leach

As Storm Dave closed in on Northern Ireland, another storm was already gathering. Inside Limelight 2, Belfast, local metal titans Survivalist unleashed thunder of their own — a fitting backdrop for the release of their […]

IN FOCUS// Ash ignite La Scala with career-spanning London show Credit: Denise Esposito
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Ash ignite La Scala with career-spanning London show

February 6, 2026 Denise Esposito

On 3 February, Ash returned to La Scala for a blistering, high-energy London show. Packed wall to wall, the venue buzzed as the trio tore through a career-spanning set, seamlessly weaving in new material from […]

IN FOCUS// Biffy Clyro at 3Arena Dublin, Ireland Credit: Becca McCaffrey
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Biffy Clyro at 3Arena Dublin, Ireland

January 11, 2026 Becca McCaffrey

Biffy Clyro put on a brilliant show at the 3Arena on Saturday, 10 January, delivering a set that was as heavy and intense as it was open and emotional. The sold-out Dublin crowd were treated […]

IN FOCUS// Punk Spirit Burns Bright as SLF, PiL & Sham 69 Rock Custom House Square © Bernie McAllister
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Punk Spirit Burns Bright as SLF, PiL & Sham 69 Rock Custom House Square

August 17, 2025 Bernie McAllister

Putting the Fast in Belfast 7 once again proved why it has become a staple of the city’s summer music calendar. A packed Custom House Square buzzed with anticipation as fans from across generations gathered […]

IN FOCUS// Bryan Adams Brings Joy and Nostalgia to Leeds on ‘Roll With the Punches’ Tour Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Bryan Adams Brings Joy and Nostalgia to Leeds on ‘Roll With the Punches’ Tour

May 20, 2025 Alina Salihbekova

Legendary Canadian rocker Bryan Adams brought his unstoppable energy to Leeds on May 10th as part of his Roll With the Punches tour — and it was nothing short of a euphoric celebration of life, […]

IN FOCUS// The Darkness Set Wembley Arena Alight with Glam Rock Glory Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// The Darkness Set Wembley Arena Alight with Glam Rock Glory

April 3, 2025 Alina Salihbekova

On April 29th, one of Britain’s most electrifying live acts, The Darkness, lit up a sold-out OVO Wembley Arena with an impossible show to ignore. Kicking off the night in fine style were Ash, the […]

IN FOCUS// The Dead South – Waterfront Hall, Belfast © Bernie McAllister
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// The Dead South – Waterfront Hall, Belfast

March 26, 2025 Bernie McAllister

The Dead South delivered a thrilling, career-defining performance at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall, marking their biggest headline show in the city to date.   Staying true to their signature fusion of bluegrass, Americana, and folk, the […]

IN FOCUS// Kim Deal Mesmerises The Barbican with a Triumphant Tour Kickoff Credit: Denise Esposito
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Kim Deal Mesmerises The Barbican with a Stunning Tour Kickoff

March 3, 2025 Denise Esposito

On March 1st, 2025, Kim Deal took the stage at The Barbican in London to launch her highly anticipated solo tour supporting Nobody Loves You More. Backed by a stunning 25-piece ensemble, she delivered a […]

IN FOCUS// The Prodigy - O2 Brixton Academy, London Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// The Prodigy – O2 Brixton Academy, London

December 24, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

One of the UK’s most iconic electronic music acts, The Prodigy, stormed the O2 Brixton Academy on December 19th, 20th, and 21st as part of their electrifying Disrupta Tour. XS Noize was fortunate to attend […]

IN FOCUS// Culture Club - Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Culture Club – Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham

December 16, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

One of the UK’s most iconic new wave bands of the ’80s, Culture Club brought their legendary sound and vibrant energy to Nottingham, celebrating their two most successful albums: Kissing to Be Clever and Colour […]

IN FOCUS// The Chats - Rock City, Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// The Chats – Rock City, Nottingham

December 10, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

Australian punk trio The Chats unleashed their trademark high-energy chaos at Rock City, Nottingham, delivering a blistering set that left the crowd electrified. Eamon Sandwith, Matt Boggis, and Josh Hardy tore through an impressive 25-song […]

Zakk Sabbath
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Zakk Sabbath at The Majestic Ventura Theater

December 5, 2024 Triffin Constantine

If there’s anyone entitled to pay tribute to Black Sabbath while also putting his own spin on their canonical metal work, it’s Zakk Wylde, Ozzy Osbourne’s longest-serving guitarist. Having been at the side of the […]

Within Temptation @ Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Within Temptation – Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham

November 25, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

Dutch symphonic metal icons Within Temptation delivered a spellbinding performance at the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham, on November 19th. The concert radiated a fiery intensity while embracing the cold, gothic elegance that defines their sound. As […]

IN FOCUS// Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - O2 Arena, London Credit: Denise Esposito
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds – O2 Arena, London

November 12, 2024 Denise Esposito

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds delivered two unforgettable performances at London’s O2 Arena on Friday, November 8, and Saturday, November 9, 2024.     Nick Cave was triumphant during the two-and-a-half-hour set, which featured […]

IN FOCUS// Soft Play at Rock City, Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Soft Play at Rock City, Nottingham

November 6, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

English punk rock duo Soft Play (formerly known as Slaves) unleashed their raw, electrifying energy at Nottingham’s Rock City, delivering a night that captured the band’s reputation for intense, unforgettable performances. From the moment Isaac […]

IN FOCUS// The Waeve at Village Underground, London Credit: Denise Esposito
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// The Waeve at Village Underground, London

November 1, 2024 Denise Esposito

On October 29, 2024, The Waeve (Graham Coxon and Rose Elinor Dougall) performed a sold-out show at London’s Village Underground. This concert marked their largest headline performance to date, celebrating the release of their second […]

IN FOCUS// Lacuna Coil at Rock City, Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Lacuna Coil at Rock City, Nottingham

October 31, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

Italian gothic metal band Lacuna Coil delivered an electrifying performance at Rock City in Nottingham just days before Halloween, setting the perfect tone for the spooky season. The band’s dynamic vocal duo—Cristina Scabbia and Andrea […]

IN FOCUS// The Libertines at Rock City, Nottingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// The Libertines at Rock City, Nottingham

October 26, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

One of the UK’s most beloved indie quartets, The Libertines, lit up Rock City in Nottingham on October 21st. As the band took the stage, Pete Doherty, wrapped in a khaki parka with his hood […]

IN FOCUS// Jungle at Utilita Arena, Birmingham Credit: Alina Salihbekova
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// Jungle at Utilita Arena, Birmingham

September 2, 2024 Alina Salihbekova

Jungle, the electronic duo who clinched the 2024 BRIT Awards’ Group of the Year title, delivered a remarkable performance at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham. Originally slated as the headlining act for The Centenary Square […]

IN FOCUS// STIFF LITTLE FINGERS at Custom House Square, Belfast © Bernie McAllister
IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS// STIFF LITTLE FINGERS & Special Guests at Custom House Square, Belfast

August 19, 2024 Bernie McAllister

Legendary NI Punks STIFF LITTLE FINGERS returned to Custom House Square for another memorable night in Belfast on Saturday, 17th August 2024, alongside an all-star line-up of very special guests & friends, including THE DAMNED, THE […]

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LATEST PODCASTS

  • Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music, "Fire Escape Symphonies" and Why Hope Still Matters | XS Noize Podcast #285
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