Photo Credit: Riot Frames
Words: Gabriella Lynn

After the heartbreaking news of the full Reytfest being cancelled due to low ticket sales, Indie Neyt at The Empire lended a helping hand in ensuring fans had an equally great night, with an array of stunning local talent, an exciting new venue, and plenty of indie bangers to dull the ache. It was a jam-packed night, drawing in keen indie-lovers from all over the area, highlighting the vitality of supporting local music events to keep our arts scene alive. 

At The Arcade 

The event opened with an emotional set from At The Arcade in their last EVER live performance. The 5-piece alt/indie rock band, hailing from Rotherham themselves, most certainly went out with a bang. 

Speaking on social media, the band plaintively stated: “For the last decade we’ve played hundreds of venues up and down the country and made memories that we will never forget. “But unfortunately everyone’s lives have started to get in the way of the band progressing beyond the home town/local band vibe and it’s time for a break.” 

Nevertheless, they left an unforgettable legacy with their final performance. Performing some of their biggest songs, such as Live from Japan and Lighten My Load, the emotion in lead Brandon Walton’s voice was uncanny. Fans in shirts sporting the band’s logo with supportive messages of farewell cheered them on throughout. 

Although I had previously not heard of the band before, their distinctive sound and catchy songs stood out to me. In particular, their touching rendition of the legendary Purple Rain by Prince really left its mark, as they bid a sad farewell to the world of music for a little while. 

The Kellows 

The Kellows are one of those up-and-coming local bands that you just can’t help but love and root for. To say they’re only 17 years old, the Sheffield indie band, featuring frontman Will Harris, lead guitarist Evan Applegate, bassist Charlie May and drummer Reuben Huddleston, have already made a huge impression on the genre. 

They all had exceptional stage presence and clearly were becoming very friendly with the stage. The performance felt very natural and relaxed which I liked – they were just doing what they do best without having to try too hard, and it was clear that the audience appreciated that. A stand-out track for me was “Do You Want Me To?” with such a catchy lead guitar melody throughout that encapsulated the overall vibe of the band. They will shortly be heading to perform at this year’s Tramlines festival and are definitely one to look out for in the future. 

Revivalry 

One word – energy. 

Revivalry’s electric performance certainly shifted the easy-listening, laid-back vibe of The Kellows, into what can only be described as the most energetic and intense set of the night. I wouldn’t be lying if I said that the lead, Josh Courfield, never stopped vivaciously jumping around the stage for the entire 45 minute set. 

The band’s sound was slightly heavier than the cool-toned indie sounds that encompassed a lot of the night, drawing inspiration from the likes of Nirvana and Iron Maiden. It was nice to have a bit of contrast. I loved the way they interacted with the audience as they left the stage to go and perform amidst the crowd, encouraging fans to form a mosh pit, creating a strong atmosphere and intimacy that left fans in admiration. 

They performed the track “Does What He Wants” – an exclusive unreleased single that isn’t out yet which had a dynamic energy, fitting perfectly into the set. They will soon be embarking on a UK tour, hitting major cities including London and Manchester’s Deaf Institute. 

The Denaby’s 

What had been a great event finally concluded with The Denaby’s, who have quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting bands in the region, garnering massive support from fans across Yorkshire and beyond. 

Joking with one another on stage and casually chatting to the audience between songs, they were just entirely down-to-earth and impossible to dislike. Tracks such as “Talk of the Town” and “Greenlight” you just had to dance along to.

However, the fast-paced “Geronimo” had to be my personal favourite, with a snappy chorus that sticks in your head long after the track ends (… for me, it was still whirling around in my brain days afterwards). The whole set in general was extremely down-to-earth, uplifting and free-spirited, showing just what good old indie rock is all about. 

I wouldn’t be surprised if the Doncaster-born band, hailing from well… the village of Denaby, were to follow in the iconic footsteps of other South Yorkshire legends like Arctic Monkeys and The Reytons. 

Ultimately, the whole event and each band were outstanding. 

However, one thing I have to emphasise is the ongoing need for the support of local bands and events by fans and locals to keep our beloved music scene thriving. I was left with a sour taste in my mouth when I looked around during The Denaby’s last few songs to see that a vast number of audience members had left… a disappointing end to what was otherwise an incredible night. Local support for events like Indie Neyt is essential and it would’ve been great to see a sold-out audience to appreciate the talent and hard work of each musician.