Stepping into London's Islington Assembly Hall on September 23rd was like walking through a portal to three different eras of folk music. This spectacular triple bill, headlined by German pagan-folk ensemble Faun, was a masterclass in musical versatility. The night offered something for every soul, supported by the rowdy sea shanties of Ye Banished Privateers and the intimate, sharp acoustics of Janice Burns & Jon Doran. From pointed political protest to chaotic pirate spectacle and finally, to ethereal, collective magic, the evening proved that the power of ancient instruments and timeless stories is as vibrant and essential as ever.

“You're like a little ocean waving hello to me” Chloe Moriondo quipped as the O2 Academy Islington swayed in sync to the sounds of her new album oyster. On this, the last stop of her 10-date romp across Europe we were treated to an atmospheric experience at times, dance party at others.

“Holy shit are we at Wembley?!” Even for San Diego's Pierce the Veil, the iconic London arena holds weight. With many of the dates on the US leg of the world tour selling out, Europe looks set to be just as crazy.

In the heart of Camden in London, the Electric Ballroom transformed into a hub of pure, anthemic pop-punk music as Taylor Acorn took the stage for one night only. For Acorn, pop-punk isn’t just a genre, it’s the soundtrack that shaped her life. Channeling the raw spirit of the late ’90s and early 2000s, she has carved out a sound that feels both nostalgic and brand new. With her fearless mix of pop-punk, alt, and rock, Taylor Acorn is proving that emo was never just a phase, it’s a lifeline she’s carrying forward for a new generation of fans who feel as deeply as she does.

If you like your rock frantic and your genres fluid, RXPTRS may just be the band for you. Gracing the stage of The Black Heart in Camden, the Bristolian quintet brought the fun with their big, unique charisma.

What started as a highly anticipated album release tour for French deathcore band ten56. became a full-fledged showcase of the genre's most promising talent. The night in London was a masterclass in the kind of on-stage camaraderie that solidifies a scene. From the moment the doors opened, it was clear that the future of heavy music is alive and well, led by a rising French wave.

“I feel like this is currently the gayest place in all of London,” smiled Scene Queen as she looked out on a crowd as diverse as you see at metalcore gigs these days. Pulling together the queer community, the alternative girlies and a good smattering of beer drinking boys, all in attendance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town were there to experience the feminist rage of the ‘Hot shows in your area' tour.

Tom Grennan lit up the O2 Arena with an unforgettable performance that blended heartfelt warmth with undeniable star power. From the moment the Bedford-born singer-songwriter stepped on stage, the atmosphere was electric, charged with a raw, infectious confidence balanced by his trademark humility. Grennan managed to strike the perfect balance between spectacle and sincerity, transforming one of London’s largest venues into something that felt remarkably intimate, like a room full of friends.

Atmosphere has always been central to DIIV’s appeal - not just in sound, but in presence. At London’s HERE at Outernet, the Brooklyn-based band transformed the space into something immersive and introspective from the moment the house lights dimmed. The ultra-modern, subterranean venue made for a perfect setting for the quartet’s hypnotic blend of shoegaze, post-punk, and dream pop.

For many remembering their teenage years there will be a nostalgia attached to the feeling of the fair coming to town. The smell of burgers, the glittering of the lights on the rides, sticky fingers from candyfloss and the excited, bustling crowds. Dreamland in Margate facilitates a trip down memory lane with all of the above whilst hosting pivotal artists that were a big part of the soundtrack of those heady days for many. As a part of the Margate Summer Series line up, McFly brought their party vibes to the Kent coast.

At the end of a week that saw the world lose the Prince of Darkness, live music and the community around it felt extra important. Down at The Engine Rooms rehearsal studios in East London, a stacked roster of bands kept the flame of rock 'n roll alive, dropping in plenty of Ozzy tributes for good measure.

Wet Leg shot to stardom immediately with their cheeky early singles ‘Chaise Longue’ and ‘Wet Dream’, followed by a #1 self-titled debut album, seemingly endless touring, a support slot with Harry Styles and a string of awards, including recognition from the GRAMMYs and BRITs. After a short break, Wet Leg returned, now as a fully-formed band, and eager to get back to work once again. Their sophomore record, Moisturiser, was crafted intentionally to break expectations and serves as a sonic departure. It’s punchier, angrier and heavier in every way.