SXSW cancelled - here's five out-of-pocket UK acts & artists we'd like to big up

No doubt about it - Coronavirus is a right shitter.

It seems trivial, in the face of people losing their lives to COVID-19, to pay so much attention to postponements and cancellations within the music and events industry.

But the situation could see much of the live music scene fighting for survival, from promoters to venues to the artists themselves, all face an uncertain few months as nations move to restrict large public gatherings.

In the instance of the Texas festival South By South West, due to take place from 13th March but cancelled last week, the knock-on effects could be disastrous, as many up-and-coming musicians, artists and filmmakers face up to losing thousands of pounds on travel and accommodation - not forgetting the many supporting businesses that will lose millions of dollars in revenue.

It's a torrid time for these grassroots acts, many of which travel from the UK. So we thought it a good idea to give some of them due to play SXSW with upcoming gig dates a shout-out, in the hope that we may pique your interest and incline you to buy a ticket in the future, or a record, or a t-shirt, or whatever.

You never know, it could be the difference between some of our top emerging talent folding, or fighting on.

False Heads

London post-punk trio False Heads have just released their debut album It’s All There But You’re Dreaming, a record that is the culmination of four years hard graft, delivering twelve tracks that delve deep into the world of gnarly, outspoken real-talk and riff-heavy rock music delivered with maximum authenticity and passion.

The band have a run of dates taking place this spring, coming to The Castle and Falcon in Birmingham, EBGBs in Liverpool and The Lousiana in Bristol, bringing a fierce live show you won't want to miss.

Find False Heads tickets.

Arlo Parks

After making her breakthrough in 2019 with her first ever gig at the Great Escape, Arlo Parks is set to return to Brighton this year to weave more of her magic. With silky smooth vocals and infectious funk rhythms, she's become one of 2020's rising stars, and highly sought after on the live circuit.

With a brand new music video out for 'Eugene', directed by Loyle Carner, Parks is going from strength to strength, and is most definitely someone you need to be paying attention to this year. You can catch her at The Great Escape and Lovebox.

Find Arlo Parks tickets.

Lauran Hibberd

Despite the SXSW cancellation, it's looking like a busy 2020 for the Isle of Wight indie-folk singer, who has caught the attention of music fans, radio stations and publications alike over the past 18 months. Most notably, BBC Radio 1's indie tastemaker Jack Saunders, who has invited Hibberd to perform at Maida Vale Studio alongside Declan McKenna, SEA GIRLS and Do Nothing for one of the station's 'Next Wave' gigs.

There's also a slot at Warrington weekend spectacular Neighbourhood Weekender, as well as the 15h edition of Kendal Calling to come later in 2020. She's also supporting British pop rockers McFly at Weekend in the Park in September, along with an appearance at Liverpool event Melon Yellow the same month.

Find Lauran Hibberd tickets.

Dry Cleaning

The South London four-piece have just announced details of a headline gig at YES Manchester, set to take place on Saturday 24th October, just over twelve months after slaying the venue's basement.

A duo of EPs were released by the band in 2019. Firstly, the Sweet Princess E.P, and then Boundary Road Snacks and Drinks, both absolutely chock full of stabbing guitar lines and a spoken word-like stream of consciousness vocal. The band have made a serious impression in a short space of time both on record, and during heaps of sweaty, intimate and raucous live dates.

Find Dry Cleaning tickets.

Porridge Radio

The sophomore release from the Brighton four-piece, Every Bad has been labelled as Pitchfork's 'Best New Music' with the publication heaping praise on the band for a frenetic, "sometimes twisted", and snarling album.

A must watch act as much as they are must listen, Porridge Radio are all set to unleash their guitar spanking live show at Studio 2 Parr Street in Liverpool on Friday 27th March, as well as The Marina Fountain in St Leonards On Sea on Thursday 28th May, plus Bluedot Festival in July.

Find Porridge Radio tickets.