The local diary is teeming with emerging talent, cult legends, and experimental pioneers, from the gritty, boom-bap lyricism taking over Belgrave Music Hall to the atmospheric, nocturnal synth-pop at the Brudenell.
Whether you are after the deafening, beautiful walls of shoegaze sound or the cosmic, psychedelic rituals of Japan’s most famous space-rock explorers, the next 19 days offer a literal world of music right on your doorstep.
We’ve curated the 19 ‘choicest’ shows to carry you through to the end of the month —one sticky floor and distorted guitar riff (or elongated bass drop) at a time.
7. HighSchool (April 16)
This Australian group has been making waves with their moody, 80s-inspired post-punk. If you like your melodies catchy but your vibes a little dark, this is the one for you. 🎶 Brudenell Social Club, 33 Queen's Rd, Leeds LS6 1NY | Hannah Mckimmie
8. Saetia (April 17)
A rare treat for the emo and screamo veterans. Reforming after decades away, Saetia’s influence on the genre is massive, and seeing them in a room as raw as Boom will be special. 🎶Boom, Canalside Community Music Space, Boom, 5 Canal Pl, Armley Rd, Leeds LS12 2DU | Provided
9. Strange Forms Festival (April 18)
The jewel in the crown of the Leeds math-rock and post-rock scene. This two-day takeover is a celebration of technical wizardry and massive soundscapes across multiple stages. 🎶 Brudenell Social Club, 33 Queen's Rd, Leeds LS6 1NY | Steve Riding
10. Calva Louise (April 19)
Blending garage rock, punk, and electronic elements, Calva Louise is a firecracker of a live band. Expect high energy and a lot of jumping around in the Book Club basement. 🎶 Hyde Park Book Club, 27-29 Headingley Ln., Leeds LS6 1BL | Contributed
11. Acid Mothers Temple (April 20)
Japan’s legendary psychedelic explorers return. A show from the Melting Paraiso U.F.O. is less of a concert and more of a cosmic ritual—expect long jams and soaring space-rock. 🎶 Brudenell Social Club, 33 Queen's Rd, Leeds LS6 1NY | PR Handout
12. Creeper (April 22)
The goth-punk sensations return to their roots with an intimate show at The Key Club. It’s a chance to see one of the UK’s most theatrical bands up close and personal. 🎶 The Key Club, 66 Merrion St, Leeds LS2 8LW | Provided