Paul Riley may be feeling his age, but that doesn’t stop him enjoying a bumper night at EBGB’s from Loner Noise.

With the release of The Skin I Live In, Mersey Wylie chats to Shaun Ponsonby about her debut EP, the changing attitudes towards mental health, her love of Michael Jackson […]

As the prog rock originators return to Liverpool this weekend, Kevin Ponsonby charts the rise of King Crimson and the birth of progressive rock. 

Gradually conquering the trashy dredges of society across the country, Queen Zee return to premiere their debut album at 24 Kitchen St.  

Somewhere between Tom Waits and Britney Spears lies QFolk, a non-binary fantasy trash babe and a one human post-folk punk yelling experience.

Out of Context celebrate their first birthday with a huge line-up of locally based talent. Gary Dougherty finds a night of empowering folk, soul, jazz and hip hop.

Unsure what to see during Homotopia? Don’t worry, Planet Slop has you covered as we pick out ten of the best events on offer throughout November. 

The former Talking Heads frontman stages his most elaborate show since Stop Making Sense, but does it live up to the hype? Shaun Ponsonby heads to Manchester to find out.  

As the Spice Girls plot their return to UK stadiums sans Posh, Planet Slop considers why the Girl Power legacy has loomed so large, long after their initial demise.  

After a seven year absence, Ladytron return for a homecoming at the O2 Academy. Shaun Ponsonby finds out if they still destroy everything they touch. 

A queer, Liverpool-based horror podcast, you say? Shaun Ponsonby speaks to Jon Larkin and Stephen Moore from Screaming Queenz to discuss queer subtext, horror in the gay community and the metaphors […]

Planet Slop’s Glorified Jukebox ensures your Halloween gets off to a flying start with a spooktastic set of hip pop rock & soul tunes to turn your blood cold. 

Out of Context celebrate their first birthday with three of the city’s finest R&B and hip hop acts.  

Michael Fell heads out to the O2 Academy for two nights of sold-out shows in one of Liverpool’s favourite venues.

Liverpool Sound City announce their first wave of acts for 2019, with a little more focus on British hip hop and R&B. 

Gary Dougherty catches XamVolo’s return to Constellations for his fourth instalment of The Art of Dffrnce.

As the Queen biopic finally reaches cinemas, Shaun Ponsonby examines the back catalogue of one of Britain’s best loved, wildly eccentric and misunderstood bands. 

What’s in your toy box? Celebrating ten years of unabashed queer expression, Planet Slop takes in the House of Suarez’s annual Vogue Ball at Invisible Wind Factory.

Using personal recollections, Alan Parry celebrates two decades of the landmark BBC sitcom. 

As the House of Suarez prepare this years’ Vogue Ball and Three Day Bender Vogue Festival, Andrew Nicholls talks to artistic director Darren Suarez about the past, present and future, as […]

As Planet Slop’s Glorified Jukebox prepares to join the She Street Band at the Arts Club, Shaun Ponsonby revisits Bruce Springsteen’s back catalogue. 

The best night in Liverpool now comes with added Kylie. Shaun Ponsonby catches a bona fide national treasure in the act. 

With a new collaboration album as well as their own solo projects, Saint and Nicola Jane are two of the most prolific artists in the L100. Shaun Ponsonby speaks to […]

Gay Times have chosen Liverpool as the first destination outside of London for their annual ceremony.  Alan Parry reports. 

Comedy legend Rob Newman comes to Liverpool in November, so Alan Parry looks back on his storied career.

Liverpool’s Olympia hosts Seasick Steve this autumn as part of a mammoth European tour. Gary Dougherty with the forecast. 

Studio 2 are launching the new funk event with London’s Big Smoke Family next week, and you could be there. Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Matt Mook […]

We’re already dead, on our way back to Toxteth and pretending nothing major is about to occur. 

Having made waves resurfacing with their short film The Island, Ladytron return to Liverpool for a live show.

On 6th September Tom Allen bought his sharp suit and sharper wit to Liverpool’s historic Epstein Theatre. Planet Slop’s Gary Dougherty was there to witness a stellar performance. 

Heading to Manchester for Janelle Monae’s first full UK show in four years, Shona Carmen feels alive, emotional and included as the Electric Lady wows in a venue almost too […]

Shak Omar, Remée and Jazmine Johnson will share the stage at 81 Renshaw next week with Planet Slop and Out of Context.

Andrew Nicholls takes his regular Queenstion Time on the road, rocking up to Europe’s biggest drag convention in London, and speaking to Jujubee, Manila, Cheryl Hole and many more.

Matt Mak reviews the UK exclusive extended version of Betty: They Say I’m Different – the new biopic on pioneering Queen of Funk, Betty Davis.

Bringing together music and gig photography, Graham Smillie finds great potential in Shout About It Live. 

The former Scissor Sisters man brings his solo show to the Arts Club, where Shaun Ponsonby finds a vibrant,  colourful and thoroughly Queer show. 

As Janet Jackson drops her new single Made For Now, Shaun Ponsonby looks at the back catalogue of a genuinely daring, influential and underappreciated artist. 

Shaun Ponsonby and Graham Smillie get a guided tour of Sefton Street’s beautiful new rehearsal space, who offer Planet Slop readers an exciting opportunity.  

A perfect marriage of rock & soul, Shaun Ponsonby checks out California’s Vintage Trouble in the Baltic Triangle. 

With Paul Verhoeven’s infamous trash classic heading to the Output Gallery, Shaun Ponsonby asks whether Showgirls is a truly bad film, or simply misunderstood. 

Bringing together music and gig photography, Shout About It Live returns for its second year in the Baltic Triangle this weekend. 

The first ever winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, BeBe Zahara Benet took the time to speak to Andrew Nicholls about the “lost” first season, Diana Ross and finally ruvealing the […]

Three incredible Liverpool artists come together for one night at 81 Renshaw, and Graham Smillie was on hand to take it all in. 

A pop legend finds a new musical soulmate – and it’s very different from what they’re known for. 

DJ2Kind returns to the pages of Planet Slop to introduce us to more from Liverpool’s hip hop, grime and R&B scenes. This time around, it’s Local 2 Global’s JR.

One of the biggest fan favourites in the history of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Jujubee speaks to Andrew Nicholls ahead of this month’s huge Drag convention in London. 

A new biopic has been made on the life and music of this 1970s Funk icon – and it’s coming to Liverpool for one night only on Monday 6th August 2018.

A Queer man and a straight ally take to the streets for the LGBTQ+ community as Shaun Ponsonby and Alan Parry visit Liverpool Pride 2018. 

Planet Slop rounds off Pride Week with an extensive playlist celebrating the greatest past, present and future queer artists. 

With Sonic Yootha staging their annual post-Pride party on Saturday, Shaun Ponsonby sat in a pub with the Yootha team, poring over records and talking trash. 

As the International Slavery Museum prepare their Civil Rights and Freedom Fights event with Liverpool Pride, Sam Wilson explores the history and importance of Martin Luther King’s queer right hand […]

With LIMF debuting their new set-up for 2018, Shaun Ponsonby and Soulfultiz take in this year’s event and ponder the future. 

Ahead of Liverpool Pride, Queen Zee talks to Shaun Ponsonby about alternative Queer influences, being championed by Iggy Pop, and the importance of education around trans issues. 

Kicking off a week-long celebration of Liverpool Pride, Shaun Ponsonby talks to Pride’s Joan Burnett about changing attitudes, visibility and the importance of remembering Michael Causer.  

The Queen of Mean headed to Liverpool with a foul mouthed, un-PC tirade that had us gagging, and Shaun Ponsonby loved every minute of it.

Two of Liverpool’s rising R&B stars join forces, with infectious results. 

The best dressed man in comedy is heading to the Epstein Theatre. Alan Parry takes a look at Tom Allen. 

Planet Slop looks at a debut solo EP from a regular face on the Liverpool music scene that encompasses jazz, funk, electronica, soul and hip hop. 

Jessie J’s comeback brings her to the Liverpool Empire in November.

Divina de Campo is coming to the Royal Court Theatre to star in the play The Ruby Slippers and you could be there on opening night. She speaks to Andrew […]

George Clinton makes his final visit to Manchester, but despite his impending retirement, Shaun Ponsonby finds a defiant Dr Funkenstein refusing to rest on his laurels. 

The Liverpool Arab Arts Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. With two weeks of events across the city kicking off last night, Ally Goodman caught up with Festival Director, […]

MC Nelson teams up with a host of talent from across the country for a unique tour celebrating Britain’s up and coming hip hop, grime and R&B talent. 

A veteran of the Liverpool hip hop scene, Jamie Broad talks to Shaun Ponsonby about his new album with Slim Guesh, hip hop in Liverpool and his mysterious alias. 

DJ Jazzy Jeff, Basement Jaxx, Wiley and a host of up and coming local talent take the stage for the 2018 event. 

Immix Ensemble team up with Sense of Sound’s Jennifer John and Liverpool Biennial for the world premiere of Bold By Name, Bold By Nature. Alan Parry has the lowdown. 

Little Steven returned to Liverpool six months after playing two shows in one day. Shaun Ponsonby was on hand to light the soulfire. 

Psycho Comedy present a whole new concept this week; Smashville. Alan Parry has the lowdown.

With his debut solo album on the way, the former Scissor Sisters man comes to Liverpool.

Despite clear influences such as J Cole and Usher, Shak Omar’s latest single still sounds like it came from these streets.

Continuing our series of interviews with drag artists, Andrew Nicholls chats to the season five winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Jinkx Monsoon.   

Going back to their roots in Studio 2, ParrJazz welcomed Forq to Liverpool’s finest Tuesday night entertainment. Mikey Fell was there to check it out.

After rescheduling their shows in the spring, the New Zealand musical comedy duo finally bring their reunion tour to Liverpool. Shaun Ponsonby finds out whether it was worth the wait. 

From Holiday to Rebel Heart, Shaun Ponsonby celebrates the Queen of Pop by rating Madonna’s entire discography.

Ahead of DJ Jazzy Jeff’s appearance at LIMF, Shaun Ponsonby recalls interviewing the man himself and re-considers The Fresh Prince’s place in rap history.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Courtney Act and Queen Zee and more were revealed at a VIP launch party last night. 

As one of the longest standing members of the New Power Generation, Morris Hayes played with Prince for over two decades. He speaks to Shaun Ponsonby ahead of the NPG’s […]

The Pope of Trash heads to the Philharmonic Hall in November.  

A month before the Liverpool International Music Festival kicks off in Sefton Park, LIMF Academy have announced the six local acts they will be mentoring for the next year.

Sandwiched between Positive Vibration and the new look LIMF, Shaun Ponsonby finds Africa Oyé is still the greatest weekend in Liverpool’s cultural calendar. 

As George Clinton plays what are likely to be his final UK shows, Shaun Ponsonby and Galactic Funk Miltita’s Mook rate the entire P. Funk oeuvre.

As Positive Vibration stage their most successful weekend yet, Paul Riley and Shaun Ponsonby wonder if, after just three years, the reggae festival has outgrown the Baltic Triangle.  

Planet Slop & Sakura join the tens of thousands making the pilgrimage to Manchester to see Rock n Roll’s living legends. 

Celebrating five decades since The Jackson 5 burst onto the scene, Shaun Ponsonby uses Planet Slop’s Glorified Jukebox to navigate the musical evolution of the most iconic family in American music […]

With the release of Paul Robert Mullen’s new book, Alan Parry has a chat with the poet about his creative process and musical influences. 

As the backlash against ITV 2’s Love Island reaches levels of intellectual superiority, Shaun Ponsonby suggests that the loudest critics need some self awareness.

The hits? The b-sides? The side projects? Unreleased material? All covered. Shaun Ponsonby celebrates Prince’s birthday by chronicling his entire career over 12 hours. 

Taking a leap into the UK scene, Andrew Nicholls talks to London based queen Charity Kase about horror looks, the possibility of a UK Drag Race and the difference between […]

The festival of reggae returns this weekend!

For WOWfest’s 2018 finale, Shelique Braithwaite takes in Potent Whisper at Constellations, and sees the themes of this year’s festival come together. 

As Janelle Monae prepares to tour her latest album Dirty Computer, Shaun Ponsonby writes a gushing tribute and picks apart the artistry of the Electric Lady. 

As Greta Van Fleet continue to be touted as the New Led Zeppelin, Shaun Ponsonby pokes holes in the theory that the youngsters will save rock & roll. 

Evoking a touch of Scott Walker with a dose of progressive pop, James Lewis feels like Barney Goodall has found his own sound.  

Continuing his exploration of drag, Andrew Nicholls talks to Tatianna, star of season two of both RuPaul’s Drag Race and All-Stars. 

Sub Blue just dropped the latest single from his upcoming EP, and Shaun Ponsonby can’t help but feel like it could be a game changer for him. 

Joel Leary spends a night in the Jacaranda to witness some horn drenched Carlisle rockers head to Liverpool with a bluesy edge.

Kicking off a new semi-regular feature talking to drag artists from around the world, Andrew Nicholls catches up with Drag Race finalist and current Celebrity Big Brother winner, Courtney Act. 

As Sound City return to their roots, Planet Slop send Giulia Cecchi, Mikey Fell, Mark Holmes, Brian Sayle, Graham Smilie and Soulfultiz to spend the weekend in the Baltic Triangle. 

The Russian punk heroines descend upon Liverpool this summer, Alan Parry reports. 

A modern jazz festival in the heart of the Baltic Triangle? Soulfultiz thinks its just what the doctor ordered.

Ahead of Stealing Sheep’s Suffrage Project taking place at Sound City this weekend. Lorna Dougherty catches up with band member Emily Lansley to talk music, feminism and everything in between.

The weekly jazz night returns to its rightful home with special guest Chris Rand in June. 

Back for its second year, Paul Riley and Vicky Pea find Wrong Festival building on last year’s triumph and securing a unique place in the Liverpool music calendar. 

Ahead of this weekend’s Wrong Festival, Paul Riley takes a look at some of the bands performing, and introduces the new single from Elevant. 

As Mad Pride take over District for a free arts event promoting mental health awareness, Ally Goodman talks to Claire Stevens at Liverpool Mental Health Consortium

As LIPA begin their annual 2ube Xtra events, Shaun Ponsonby wonders if the streamed concerts could help to integrate the institution in the wider Liverpool music scene. 

What do Bruce Springsteen, Nelson Mandela and The Sopranos have in common? Ahead of Little Steven’s upcoming UK tour, Shaun Ponsonby takes a look at one of the most fascinating, […]

Threshold Festival use their fallow year to launch a more compact event. Shaun Ponsonby spends two days in the Baltic Triangle for Across The Threshold. 

Not knowing what to expect from the Roxy Music legend, Alan Parry discovers what grown up pop sounds like. 

Ruby Wax brought her one-woman show, Frazzled: A Guide To Mindfulness – A Forum For Discussion, to The Liverpool Playhouse. Gary Dougherty was there to report for Planet Slop.

Exploring the effect of Section 28, Shaun Ponsonby heads to The Reeds for a much needed LGBT history lesson. 

 As the latest Star Wars movie makes its way to home media, Bruce McAdam deconstructs the film and analyses the controversy surrounding it. 

A pretty perfect way to wind down on a Sunday evening, Shaun Ponsonby takes in some Manchester soul on Bold Street.  

A Perfect Circle tours are uncommon, the only thing less common is a new album to go with them! Joseph Cullen’s got all the details. 

Ahead of his new EP and residency at Constellations, Shaun Ponsonby talks to XamVolo about diversity, touring with Paloma Faith and breaks down the larger concepts in his work.  

A host of incredible modern jazz and soul artists are making their way to the first ever On The Corner in the Baltic Triangle, and Soulfultiz can hardly wait.  

Tattoos – whether you love them, loathe them, or are just plain indifferent there will be no getting away from them when the Liverpool Tattoo Convention returns for its 11th […]

Planet Slop commemorate our first birthday with a celebration of some of the greatest hip pop rock & soul ever made.

He used to be part of the Profit Saint crew, but now he’s gone solo. DJ 2Kind introduces Saint.  

As the ever popular festival prepares their new Across The Threshold event, co-founder Chris Carney talks to Planet Slop about their natural diversity.  

Christy Smyth brings this battle of two TV titans to a close, with Black Museum and Tempting Fate getting it on in the final round. 

The up and coming promoters have bagged two incredible shows at 81 Renshaw this summer. 

He arrived as a perfect pop star with a multi-platinum debut album, so what happened? Shaun Ponsonby looks at the rise and fall of the artist formerly known as Terence […]

With Paloma Faith bringing a local hero on the road, Shaun Ponsonby catches a pop star who is both fantastical and relatable. 

Rambunctious rock & soul, you say? Sign us up! Vintage Trouble return to Liverpool for their first headline show in seven years. 

The Drag Race superstar launches her new show at the Empire Theatre this summer.  

The up and coming rapper follows up the sublime By The River in April. 

Created by Dawn French, and written by a formidable writing team of twin sisters, Alan Parry remembers a largely forgotten sitcom that should be ranked as one of the finest […]

Mook’s Morocco Travel Diary

How much do you spend on an average night on the “sesh” in Liverpool? Matt Mook Mak suggests that you stay in for a few weekends, save your money, and have an adventure flying from John Lennon Airport out to the beautiful country of Morocco. With a song per day from his holiday playlist for good measure…

With almost six decades of music to choose from, Brian Sayle catches the reggae legend on his return visit to Liverpool. 

With Stealing Sheep debuting new material in a show named Big Wows, Graham Smillie finds it an appropriate title for a genuinely dazzling show. 

As a Liverpool legend passes away, Planet Slop‘s comedy correspondent Alan Parry looks back at a formidable career.

As Zoe Lyons prepares her new show, Alan Parry takes a comedian with mastery in satire, observational comedy and razor sharp one-liners.

Raiding Bob Marley’s back catalogue without their fallen leader, Shaun Ponsonby catches the reggae legends at the height of their powers. 

Finding a sweet spot that is difficult to occupy, Shaun Ponsonby is introduced to the grungy fuzz pop of Good Problems. 

Through 100 songs and artists, we trace popular music history through some of the greatest women in hip pop rock ‘n’ soul, and everything in between.

LIMF returns to Sefton Park, with a monster line-up and important ticketing change.

The up and coming Malaysian-English comic came to Southport’s Atkinson, and Alan Parry found the young comedian performing beyond his years. 

As Liverpool City Council announce new measures to protect the local music industry, Shaun Ponsonby argues that the number one issue we face is the lack of diversity.

Maybe some things are best kept a fantasy. Planet Slop catches a disappointing Wiley at 24 Kitchen Street.

The trio present electronic music with a slightly grimier edge and an unashamedly scouse delivery. 

Continuing to raise their profile as a music venue, Studio 2 launches Backbone, with a view to becoming a soulful equivalent of Liquidation. 

What happens when a Liverpool based soul singer collaborates with a Manchester based rapper? Planet Slop finds out.

After its successful launch at The Reeds last month Boom Bap returns to the venue as a monthly night. 

For the fourth year running, Shaun Ponsonby watches the BRIT Awards so you don’t have to, and perhaps for the first time ever, doesn’t find it a total failure. 

MerseyGrime3 prepares to take over The Jacaranda for a night with Merseyside’s best and brightest grime, rap and hip hop artists. 

The grime MC who’s dragging the spotlight out of London is coming to the docks. 

As the pop pair return with a new single ahead of a brand new album Save The World, Daphne and Celeste expert Chris Burgess looks at why the much-maligned duo […]

The RuPaul’s Drag Race favourite comes to the Epstein Theatre next month. *Tongue pop*.

The former Black Uhuru star performs the most iconic music in his back catalogue, and Graham Smillie was there for the positive vibrations. 

The CruCast spring tour hits Liverpool next month in association with Chibuku. 

Fancy seeing Paloma Faith and Xam Volo take to the stage at the Echo Arena next month? Well we’ve got a handful of tickets to give away to lucky winners. 

Ruby Wax, tireless campaigner for mental health issues, brings her one-woman show to Liverpool. Gary Dougherty with the details. 

Chibuku bring bass music star Hannah Wants to Liverpool alongside Low Steppa, Jack Swift and more. 

Dusky and Jon Hopkins will headline two massive shows at Liverpool’s Invisible Wind Factory in March courtesy of ENRG. 

Having been a popular live act for years, supporting everybody from funk maestro Craig Charles to Motown legend Martha Reeves, The Soul Rays have released their debut video.

The band behind Bob Marley return, playing the biggest selling reggae album of all time in it’s entirety. 

Launching his new single at Studio 2, Emilio Pinchi ends up offering one of the finest nights out in recent memory. Graham Smillie and Jazamin Sinclair were there to take […]

Ahead of TV ME’s single launch on Friday, mainman Thomas McConnell spoke to Shaun Ponsonby about their upcoming EP, popular culture and his peculiar style of song writing.

With a big night at Invisible Wind Factory, Paul Riley finds himself disappointed by Nightmares on Wax, but finds a promising new talent in MC Nelson. 

As Christy Smyth gets to the business end of both Black Mirror and Inside No. 9 it’s almost level pegging. Up next it’s Metalhead vs. And The Winner Is…

Jamie Broad releases new video for track L100 History, a timeline of his own journey through Liverpool’s Hip Hop scene. 

Ahead of his single launch at Studio 2, Emilio Pinchi talks to Shaun Ponsonby about where to draw strength, developing as an artist and drunkenly recording conversations with friends. 

Vicky Pea tears up the draft and goes back to the drawing board after seeing Kendrick Lamar destroy her expectations in Manchester. 

The night before her Kendrick Lamar collaboration drops, Jorja Smith brings her sell-out UK tour to the Invisible Wind Factory. Soulfultiz checks out an artist on the cusp of domination. 

Noise rock outfit Hookworms to play Invisible Wind Factory on the back of new Top 20 album Microshift.

With a new album set for release Thirty Seconds To Mars are set to hit the UK for a 5 date spring tour.

The comedian heads comes to both Liverpool and Southport soon, and Alan Parry can’t wait.

The reggae legend comes to Liverpool for a very special show next week.

Californian Nu Metal legends Hed PE head to Liverpool’s Krazyhouse next month as part of their European tour.

Reggae? Funk? R&B? Hip Hop? Ocean Waves Productions may be best known for alternative rock, but their new project is crossing musical and cultural boundaries. Shaun Ponsonby talks to Carlo […]

Ahead of Queen Extravaganza’s UK tour, Shaun Ponsonby talks to the tribute band’s drummer who ended up drumming with his heroes. 

In a brand new venue on the outskirts of town, Shaun Ponsonby takes in an all-night Boom Bap party that could become a central part of a criminally overlooked scene. 

Last week, Planet Slop joined up with Rogue Gallery for an eccentric and eclectic night of rock, hip-hop, blues, jazz-pronk and acoustic queercore. Here’s how it went down.

Sleeper return after 20 years of silence, kicking off their tour at Liverpool’s Arts Club.

Nile Rodgers and co are to freak out at Castlefield Bowl for a summer party like no other. Shaun Ponsonby tells us why this is such great news.

A maverick musical with a message, Gary Dougherty reports on a night of songs, laughs and anarchic performance.

The up and coming Malaysian-English comic comes to Southport’s Atkinson later this month, and Alan Parry seriously suggests you check him out. 

The ever popular annual event of grass roots music and arts are returning with a new event for 2018 and tease a retool for 2019. Shaun Ponsonby reports. 

Continuing his look at two incredibly popular anthology series, Christy Smyth explored Black Mirror’s Hang The DJ and Inside No. 9’s To Have And To Hold.

As Queen Zee stage their second Sassden event, Matthew Reekie finds a raucous night that is pushing boundaries. 

Ahead of their show at Sound, Jack Burton takes a look at one of Liverpool’s most promising new groups.

After her Under Cinema exhibit comes to an end Liverpool’s FACT, Kelela returns to the North West for an in demand live show. 

Rhymesayers alumnus Grieves to play Manchester gig as part of just two UK shows. 

mUmU pull no punches as they begin their massive 2018 10th birthday celebrations. 

Christy Smyth returns with round three of Black Mirror vs. Inside No. 9 to pit Crocodile against Once Removed. 

Alan Parry was one of a dwindling crowd to head to Southport to see Zaltzman zing on Trump, ISIS, May and ,of course, Cricket. 

WRONG, a Festival for the Freakscene, is returning in spring 2018 for another day and night of noise. 

Sakura presents a snippet of the night when Paramore’s arena tour came to Manchester. 

Celebrating the 25th of Parr Street Studios, Planet Slop premieres an incredible live performance from Nu Tribe and No Fakin.

Starting the new year off with a bang, DJ 2Kind introduces Shak Omar – the artist formerly known as 4tune Tella.

Continuing his weekly breakdowns of Black Mirror and Inside No. 9, Christy Smyth compares Arkangel and Bernie Clifton’s Dressing Room. Spoiler alert.

Planet Slop, BBC 6 Music and more team up with Studio2 at Parr Street to celebrate Independent Venue Week.

Mark Johnstone hails the return of Wiley thanks to a newly added Liverpool date. 

 Nightmares on Wax is about to come crashing into the Invisible Wind Factory. Paul Riley with the lowdown.

A musical exploration of our attitudes to The Big C and how it affects real lives? Gary Dougherty reveals all.

As Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror and BBC Two’s Inside No. 9 return to our screens, Christy Smyth pits each episode against each other. Spoiler alert. 

Nu Tribe and MC Nelson are among those kicking off a series of nights from Wide Open. Shaun Ponsonby reports. 

Despite his disdain for New Years Eve, Paul Riley finds himself dancing with everybody else during Fiesta Bombarda’s triumphant end of year bash. 

The up and coming artist heads up a night that shows some of the very best of Liverpool’s soulful side. 

The incredible Liverpool rapper is premiering his new video at Fact next week. Shaun Ponsonby reports. 

As 2017 draws to a close, Planet Slop contributors select some of their favourite albums from the past 12 months. 

With a double bill of 2-Tone legends ending their year in Liverpool, Graham Smillie gets his Christmas skank on.

As Slade stage a Christmas party in Liverpool, Shaun Ponsonby feels the noize with the glam legend’s current incarnation. 

Planet Slop welcomes back Snips’ Dave Wain for an almost nearly festive Christmas movie guide. 

As Cartoon Network hits a golden age, Christy Smyth winds down our week-long celebration by asking why British animation is so far behind America.   

As John Waters prepares to make his sole UK appearance in Liverpool, Shaun Ponsonby commemorates the 20th anniversary of the classic Simpsons episode Homer’s Phobia.  

News From Nowhere have returned with some more recommendations to cosy up with over the holidays.

Animania turns towards the East as Craig O’Reilly & Laura Coppin pick their Ghibli favourites. 

Our friends at Nothin But The Music kick off their monthly playlists for Planet Slop with a round-up of their favourite tracks of the year. 

A perfect night for 2-Tone fans, as two of the most iconic groups of the movement join forces at the Olympia. 

Continuing our week-long celebration of all things animated, Laura Coppin challenges the long held belief that cartoons are primarily made for children. 

As 2017 draws to a close, Shaun Ponsonby presents the top ten types of albums that will appear on every single end of year list produced by every other publication.  

As the first ever animated feature film celebrates its 80th anniversary this week, Planet Slop present Animania – a week long celebration of cartoons throughout the ages. Shaun Ponsonby kicks […]

The highly respected comedian comes to Southport in January, and Alan Parry tells you why you should be excited. 

Ahead of The League of Gentlemen’s TV return and UK tour, Alan Parry looks at the legacy of one of British comedy’s darkest gems. 

Having recently staged improvised soap opera The Happening, comedy troupe Impropriety talk to Sean Broadhurst  about how it came into being and the art behind improv.

As Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi is unleashed, Bruce McAdam takes an in-depth look at the franchise under Disney. 

The trans power punk band and LGBT social event play Sound in January. 

At the time of year when Slade are ubiquitous, and ahead of their performance at Hangar 34, Shaun Ponsonby talks to the band’s legendary super yob Dave Hill about the […]

Planet Slop offer a spoiler free review straight from the red carpet of Star Wars: The Last Jedi. 

5 readers. 1 novel. 1 sentence. 1 syllable per word. 0 punctuation. The Sentence is coming to The Florrie.

Chibuku pile on the grime for their next Liverpool event and have peaked the interest of Mark Johnstone in the process.

As Isle Of Wight Festival announce their 50th anniversary line up, Shaun Ponsonby questions whether they should be allowed to trade off the original festival’s notoriety on the basis that […]

The Australian comedian takes a break from his popular late night show to tour the UK. Alan Parry reports. 

Did we just see some defining performances from a couple of Liverpool’s stars in waiting? Shaun Ponsonby seems to think so.

As Europe’s largest drag convention prepares to take over London, Andrew Nicholls looks at the history of drag and its significance in the LGBTQ+ community.

In arguably the finest large venue in the city, Paul Riley finds a rock icon far from playing it safe. 

The favourite band of his youth, Shaun Ponsonby heads to the Echo Arena to find out whether Queen are still the champions with Adam Lambert. 

In the second in his series of imagined backstage stories from terrible TV shows, Shaun Ponsonby travels back to 1983 for an erotic, romantic epic set in the early days […]

Paul Fitzgerald chats to Simon Mason, author of Too High, Too Far, Too Soon, ahead of his show at The Zanzibar as part of Hightown Pirates. 

Bringing 25 years of Africa Oye to a close, Shaun Ponsonby sees a performance of sheer class from French-Cameroon artist Blick Bassy.

Vicky Pea enters the pages of 2023 to take a whistle-stop tour with The JAMS – not those ones, but those ones too. 

Stephen Lewin has high hopes as he sets out to join the dedicated DeMarco masses at Mountford Hall. 

With two new albums on the way, the soul legend talks to Mark Johnstone about living in Manchester, getting out of his comfort zone and 30 years of his classic […]

Sound City announce the first wave of acts for their 2018 edition, but there is one band exciting Planet Slop head and shoulders above the rest.

In the perfect surroundings of the Laughterhouse, Alan Parry finds Paul Foot reminiscent of Robin Williams in his pomp. 

The heat is on as Burn The Shard gets closer, the Lucky 49 begin to reveal themselves and we get some solid intel on what’s going on. 

Ahead of Blick Bassy’s performance at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Janaya Pickett talks to the French-Cameroonian artist about applying language to music, his love of Skip James, and assuming individuality. 

A cosy ski lodge will do just fine in the winter months. Planet Slop heads to the latest incarnation of Kiosk.

Patti Smith confirms summer Manchester show as part of two solo UK dates. 

Smoov Cyphaz is bringing a night of Hip Hop and Rap to the North Shore Troubadour in December. 

Ahead of the release of Astles’ debut studio effort, Planet Slop talk to the hotly tipped artist and have an exclusive listen to his first EP.

As a new faction takes shape Vicky Pea wonders what could await them and gets her hands on some of The 400’s legacy. 

Ahead of the big screen adaption of The Disaster Artist, Shaun Ponsonby explores the cult classic film on which it is based and asks why this particular bomb resonates with […]

The shock rock icon returns with the original band for the first time in 46 years, and welcomes Shaun Ponsonby to his nightmare. 

Ken Jones is a creative writing student from Wallasey. He has been writing stories since the 60s, and has returned to education to improve his craft. 

As the Jamaican born singer-songwriter wins the fifth Sound Station competition, Shaun Ponsonby listens to his soulful debut EP One Day. 

Consigliere to both Bruce Springsteen and Tony Soprano, Little Steven wows Liverpool with two very different shows in one day. Superfan Shaun Ponsonby wasn’t going to miss them for the […]

Taking a trip to New Orleans, albeit via Manchester, Owen Mullen finds a pure love of music at Gorilla. 

With Blondie’s new album arguably being their most popular in two decades, Shaun Ponsonby finds a band far from resting on their laurels.  

Download Festival calls upon the reunited G’n’R to headline in 2018. 

Vicky Pea finally catches the band that has inexplicably eluded her since the glorious summer of ’04. 

Graeme Watt enlightens us on the appeal of the trainer festival as Laces Out heads back to Camp & Furnace. 

With Squeeze expertly showing us how it’s done, Alan Parry finds out what grown ups do on a night out. 

With regular indie faces on stage, and some genuinely exciting MC’s relegated downstairs, Shaun Ponsonby, Vicky Pea and Lorna Doughtery think it’s time for Liverpool’s hip hop scene to come […]

Vicky Pea finally comes full circle with her reflection on Welcome To The Dark Ages… until…garhh no we’re going back! 

Cult musician Captain Beefheart is at the centre of a weekend of specially created events across Liverpool to celebrate his life and works.

The Toronto native comes to Liverpool for an incredibly rare show. Paul Fitzgerald has the lowdown. 

A crowdfund has been set up in order to send a group of young people from Liverpool to New York as part of the World ADP Riot Tour. 

Wednesday night may not be raring for a party, but Shaun Ponsonby finds a warm reception for Childhood.

Positive Vibration brings another reggae legend to Liverpool as part of Music Week. As if Shaun Ponsonby would miss this one.

As the BBC launch their dreadful new Friday night music show amid much fanfare, Shaun Ponsonby finds it emblematic of pop in the 21st century. 

With the release of his new film The Killing of a Sacred Deer, we take a look at the films of Yorgos Lanthimos with a guest piece by Michael Fowler […]

Celebrating 20 years of the Bella Union label at Leaf for Liverpool Music Week, Paul Fitzgerald finds an evening of true celebration.

Having only known Jungle for two weeks, Graham Smillie takes a chance and catches them at the Invisible Wind Factory. Do they convert a new fan?

A Liverpool hip hop veteran with a beer swigging, foul mouthed, occasionally homeless, street fighting and penniless alter ego. DJ2Kind introduces us to the artist formerly known as T.L.

Having a little look back at our adventures so far in Liverpool Music Week 2018. 

Liverpool Sound City 2018 to return to its award winning metropolitan roots for May festival.

The Death Of Stalin gets the Planet Slop Film Club treatment in our second collaborate review. 

As the Abstract Orchestra makes an inevitable return to the city, DJ2Kind watches them triumph in a re-imagining of a hip hop classic. 

Ahead of Mike Garson’s performance at the O2 Academy, Christy Smyth talks to Bowie’s long-time pianist about Aladdin Sane, the underrated albums of the 90s and life with the Thin […]

We’ve teamed up with News From Nowhere to bring you some reading recommendations that may have missed your radar. 

Gypsy-infused jazz with a striking visual element. Shaun Ponsonby takes a listen to Ocean Waves signing Long Finger Bandits. 

As Justin Timberlake returns to headline the Superbowl halftime show, Shaun Ponsonby looks back at the American media’s appalling display following his 2004 appearance with Janet Jackson.

Liverpool Music Week brings us the good times, and it leaves Shaun Ponsonby wondering how many hits you can fit in one show.

Traveling down to London’s O2 Arena, Shaun Ponsonby became one of the first people to view the items on display at the world premiere of the official Prince exhibition. 

Slop’s Vicky Pea teams up with Snips’ Dave Wain to bring you a spooky selection of seriously shocking Halloween films. 

Liverpool’s finest off the wall jazz-pronk band talk to Shaun Ponsonby about the punk-prog divide, humour in music and “experimental thrash comedy avant-garde punkjazz”.

The unique showcase that is Liverpool’s Secret Circus returns for two new events of unpredictable performance art.

As the Fleet Foxes prepare to cast their spell over our shores next month, Glenn Gibson attempts to run through their top ten tracks.

Planet Slop welcomes you to our inaugural edition of the Film Club, first up in our firing line, Blade Runner 2049. 

Fiesta Bombarda reveals its carnival offering for New Years Eve at the Invisible Wind Factory. 

Mark Johnstone gets his skank on as Reel Big Fish fuel the fire at the O2 Academy. 

Lewis Wren’s writing is influenced by the short stories of Raymond Carver and John Cheever, although he aspires to become an author of children’s fiction. He is currently working on […]

Stephen Lewin goes in search of some interesting shoes to stare at in preparation of Ride’s arrival in Liverpool with new material in tow to boot. 

Don’t just stand there, let’s get to it; Andrew Nicholls takes in the House of Suarez annual Vogue Ball at the Invisible Wind Factory.

Alan Parry quizzes comedian Paul Foot on his wacky inspiration, ties, politics, piglets and more ahead of his live show at Liverpool’s Slaughter House. 

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue make the trip to Manchester in November, Owen Mullen reports. 

Impropriety’s improvised soap opera The Happening is coming to the end of its run at 81 Renshaw Street. Sean Broadhurst returns to take in the penultimate episode and reflects on […]

The 15th Liverpool Music Week is upon us and we’re back to ensure you don’t miss a show with our LMW Guide. 

With Tate Liverpool embarking on a nine month exhibition looking at the work of Roy Lichtenstein, Gary Dougherty considers the influence of the Modern artists on our everyday lives.

Stephen Lewin finds The Shipping Forecast void of answers but brimming with the seeds of essential conversations courtesy of Downtown Boys. 

Paul Riley embraces the Freak Scene – and the whiskey – and the rock – at Loner Noises’ Freak Scene All-Dayer. 

As Demi Lovato releases her new album and documentary, Shaun Ponsonby investigates the relationship between Whalegate and her sister Poot. 

Sean Broadhurst talks to Man Booker Prize 2017 winner George Saunders about obsession, capitalism and satire in the age of Trump. 

It may be Halloween time but Michael Edwards has a very different reason for getting out the face paints as ICP head our way. 

Poetry is a new form to Tom Florence, but it is clear from his poem, Autopilot, that he is an exciting young writer. He is currently working on a novel, […]

A celebration of rock, ska, punk and reggae, Mark Johnstone reports on the Fueling The Fire welcomeing Reel Big Fish as the headliners for this year’s trek.

Paul Fitzgerald joins a sold out crowd at the Buyers Club to discover the true definition of a band on an evening of one special monent after another. 

An odd pairing? Not at all! Stephen Lewin travels to Leeds for a formidable double header. 

Luke Foo Guest has been away during Smithdown Road’s redevelopment, so he was delighted to spend the day at the free all-dayer they staged last week. Warning: Wrist injury depicted. 

Paul Fitzgerald enjoys two full hours of unremittingly joyous Congolese wonder at the Liverpool Philharmonic’s Music Room with Kanda Bongo Man. 

Sean Broadhurst is witness to a mushroom related murder in the improv county of Kazimier-shire in Episode 4 of The Happening.

Elizabeth Gibson was announced as a New North Poet at the 2017 Northern Writers’ Awards. She is a Masters student at the University of Manchester whose work has appeared in […]

The laughs turn to genuine emotion for episode three of Impropriety’s improvised soap opera, and Sean Broadhurst finally avoided becoming part of the show.

The London alt-pop quartet return to the city after a triumphant gig at Magnet last year. Paul Fitzgerald reports. 

Ready to strike a pose? House of Suarez are bringing The Vogue Ball back to the Invisible Wind Factory this month.

With their famous fans including Laura Mvula, Don Letts and Robert Glasper, Soulfultiz is a little excitable for Moonchild’s Manchester show next week.  

The only all-female line-up at the Liverpool Comedy Festival, Sean Broadhurst took in Laughter Locker and found it a refreshing antidote to a male dominated industry. 

Lethal Bizzle is back! And Mark Johnstone is ready for his Manchester gig in October. 

Liverpool Music Festivals shortlisted for multiple 2017 UK Festival Awards. 

Michael Edward joins a shawl of sound engineers as they swarm to witness Shellac at the Manchester Academy 2. 

The King of Soukous comes to Liverpool this weekend. Paul Fitzgerald gets ready to dance.

A virgin to The Funk, Sean Broadhurst becomes a bona fide convert at the homecoming concert for Liverpool’s galactic funk soldiers.

As Metallica prepare to bring their WorldWired tour to the Manchester Arena Paul Riley takes a trip down memory lane.

London’s answer to Snarky Puppy, Circus VIII are bringing their funk, rock, disco explosion to North Shore Troubadour.

Kicking off the much anticipated Raskit Tour in Liverpool, Christy Smyth finds Dizzee Rascal well and truly back in the corner. 

Greg Davies brought his You Magnificent Beast tour to Liverpool Comedy Festival, and Alan Parry found a man with the energy of a man half his age. 

Aside from writing four decades of great songs, Tom Petty was also an opponent of the music industry. Shaun Ponsonby considers his legacy both on and off stage. 

Having unwittingly become part of the show during episode one of Impropriety’s improvised soap opera, Sean Broadhurst was determined not to let the same thing happen at episode two. 

Sakura shares her shots from Lorde’s gig at Manchester’s O2 Apollo. 

A Friday night in fine company, Planet Slop takes in art rock legends Sparks for a rare live performance in Manchester. 

The first ever We Are Grime event took place at EBGB’s last week, and Planet Slop were there to take it in. 

Hayley Anderton is a graduate of LJMU, and a writer of Young Adult fiction. Her debut novel, Double Bluff, is available on Amazon.

Dizzee Rascal is launching his Raskit Tour in Liverpool next week, and we at Planet Slop are going bonkers.  

Sakura presents her photo gallery from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds at Manchester Arena. 

As part of Liverpool Comedy Festival Vicky Pea attends her first Cabaret show, with a twist. 

Planet Slop’s Paul Riley, Brian Sayle and Vicky Pea present their review and photo gallery from this year’s Liverpool Psych Fest. 

Ghosts Of is a new online series that sees a group of friends tackle some of the British Isle’s spookiest spots.

An improvised spoof soap opera? Why not? Sean Broadhurst takes in episode one of Impropriety’s The Happening. 

The gig may have been downsized, but Jesus and Mary Chain triumphed regardless, according to Paul Fitzgerald. 

Fancy a nice cup of tea? DJ2Kind introduces us to Jamie Broad, a Leonard Cohen loving Liverpool rapper. 

Reggae with a bit of everything, the incredible Soom-T is swinging by Studio 2 this Friday.

Gentlemen start your engines, and may the best woman win! Shaun Ponsonby sees something in Drag Race that he doesn’t get from any other reality contest.    

As Liverpool finally gets a regular Grime night, Shaun Ponsonby speaks to We Are Grime’s Alexa Humphries about the importance of providing a central platform for a style of music […]

Different Trains 1947 to premiere in Liverpool before showings in London and India. 

Ahead of Galactic Funk Militia’s biggest show to date at the O2 Academy, Shaun Ponsonby speaks to band leader Mook about the present, the future, and the power of The […]

The new wave legends return to Liverpool in November, and Alan Parry can barely contain her excitement. 

Does pop still sound like pop? Shaun Ponsonby ponders the increasing eccentricity of pop music, and why it has taken such a sharp left turn.

Erik Davidkov is a Bulgarian born poet, photographer, and composer of films. His poem L’accord Bleau is included in the collection All Of This And Nothing. 

With Tate Liverpool’s Portraying a Nation exhibition showcasing Germany during the rise of Hitler, Niloo Sharifi looks at the work of Dix and Sander with one eye on the current […]

Do’s, don’t’s, when’s, where’s, how’s, who’s and more from Planet Slop’s Vicky Pea.

As The Jesus and Mary Chain prepare to bring their Damage and Joy tour to Liverpool’s Academy, Planet Slop’s  Jon Heathen looks forward to their wall of sound.

Liverpool Mental Health Festival takes place across two weeks in October with a range of events. 

The 16th Liverpool Comedy Festival kicks off this week with 150 shows across 18 venues. 

Paul Fitzgerald enchants us with a brief history of American singer-songwriter John Murry ahead of intimate show at the Naked Lunch Cafe. 

Ahead of their performance at the Unity Theatre, cabaret troupe Teatro Pomodoro speak to Ally Goodman about their new show, Cabaret From The Shadows.

David Subacchi studied at the University of Liverpool and has published five collections of poetry. He writes in English, Welsh, and Italian. David regularly performs at spoken word events in Liverpool.

With Australia’s POND making a Liverpool appearance, Brian Sayle catches them launching this year’s anticipated Psych Fest. 

With two massive reggae gigs in just a couple of weeks, Brian Sayle and Graham Smillie are blown away by the ambition of Positive Vibration. 

Suffering from eczema wasn’t the most irritating thing Shaun Ponsonby experienced this week, it was the interminable MTV Video Music Awards 2017.

An incredible second wave of acts is shaping LMW 2017 as the best yet.  

Vicky Pea attempts to get to the bottom of Badger Kull… and discovers a training course?

Before Manchester’s Mica Millar launches her latest single in Liverpool, Soulfultiz spoke to her about the Manchester scene, performing in Liverpool and her new music.

Vicky Pea attempts to weave a narrative through the three days of Welcome To The Dark Ages. 

One of the world’s biggest superstars comes to Blackpool. Shaun Ponsonby takes in the first ever Livewire Festival, starring the one and only Will Smith.

Vicky Pea dwells on the prospect of The People’s Pyramid and wonders why this isn’t bigger news? 

Vicky Pea hereby bestows her remains to The Justified Ancients Of Mu Mu for the purpose of building The People’s Pyramid.  

Vicky Pea joins the ranks of Book Two Chapter Four for The Day Of The Book.

Vicky Pea jumps head first in to Mumuland to get a job, an answer and a tattoo. 

Ahead of a celebration of The Hit Factory as part of Blackpool’s Livewire Festival, Banjo re-assesses the much maligned 80s pop trio, and chats to one of their biggest stars; […]

The Justified Ancients of Mu Mu are back to a warm reception! 

Karin Matthews is a writer from Gloucestershire. She studied English and Creative Writing in Liverpool where she began a project; every day she selects a random title and writes a […]

What the FUUK is going on? We’re about to find out as Vicky Pea departs for Mumuland. 

My Name Is Prince will run for 21 nights in the autumn, and Shaun Ponsonby can barely contain his excitement.

Sakura presents a photo gallery as Bright Eyes frontman Conor Oberst delivers a gig of the year contender to the pleasure of his fans.

Want to get into The Fall but don’t know where to start? Del Pike presents the ultimate beginners guide to Mark E Smith and Co. 

Packed into a venue that may have been too small for a gig of this size, Paul Riley tries to enjoy jazz legend Roy Ayers during a night of ups […]

mUmU bring Marcel Dettmann and Answer Code Request to Liverpool on August Bank Holiday Sunday.

Musicians Against Homelessness boasts massive two day line up to raise funds for Crisis.

Robert Plant will play Liverpool’s Olympia as part of UK & Irish tour this autumn in support of his new album Carry Fire. 

Depressed at the state of the world as we know it, Shaun Ponsonby tries to cheer us up by delving into one of pop’s forgotten back pages. 

Planet Slop has a pair of tickets to give away to this years Festival No.6. Find out why and how you should enter here. 

With a week to go before the KLF’s Welcome To The Dark Ages event, Vicky Pea finally experiences the calm before the storm. 

Liverpool music blog The Music Manual is set to celebrate their 5 year anniversary with a special Summer Shindig.

Is Boom Bap the true hip-hop sound? Prefects seems to think so. DJ2Kind catches up with him with L100.

As the team behind Wrong Festival announce an all-day celebration of the freak scene, Shaun Ponsonby talks to head honcho Michael Edward about the development of Wrong, Loner and the […]

Glenn Gibson rejoices over Lana Del Rey’s new album and upcoming tour by looking through her back catalogue and putting things into perspective.

Following issues at Y Not, Hope & Glory and BoomTown, Shaun Ponsonby believes that we’re hearing about failing festivals in 2017 as often as we heard about dying celebrities last […]

Chris Burgess starts to wonder if the Dougie-verse is even real and spots the potential for a bigger fight than Mayweather vs McGregor.

Details. We have details. Just a few but enough to get Vicky Pea in a right old state. 

After a number of years away from the stage, Shaun Ponsonby catches the reggae giants’ return to Liverpool at the Olympia. 

Liverpool Disco Festival 3 reveals first set of acts for October takeover of the Baltic Triangle. 

Adam Chapman reviews the now legendary Sunday of Hope and Glory 2017. 

Heading down to London solo, Nelson experiences Afropunk in all it’s multicultural glory.

The legendary Liverpool night out has revealed their ambitious plans for Christmas 2017. 

An obviously unsuitable venue, a clear lack of organisation and a promoter whose shows have appeared on Rip-Off Britain. Why was Hope and Glory given permission to go ahead?

Having spent years dismissing Jaden Smith as a joke, Shaun Ponsonby starts to reassess what the kid is really all about.

Michael Edward celebrates Queens of the Stone Age’s upcoming album and tour by rating their entire output and putting their entire career into context. 

Mark Johnstone savours the arrival of Van Morrison to Liverpool. 

A week closer to the big event, Vicky Pea continues to absorb all KLF information like a sponge… A confused, disorientated sponge. 

In the first of his short stories based on the backstage antics of bland TV shows, Shaun Ponsonby imagines the events surrounding The One’s Show’s Christmas party.

The reggae legends return to Liverpool after a lengthy hiatus from touring and you could be there.

The Godfather of neo-soul Roy Ayers plays 24 Kitchen St this summer.

An alternative to Pride? Shaun Ponsonby thinks that Queer Rrriot was not only a rousing success, but that it is imperative that it continues.

Playing The Beach Boys’ masterpiece Pet Sounds in full, Shaun Ponsonby finds the Liverpool crowd delighted to simply be in Brian Wilson’s presence.

As the Mercury Prize shortlist is announced, Shaun Ponsonby argues that the award has never been all its cracked up to be. 

Having stopped paying attention to Gary Numan by the early 80s, Graham Smillie decides to pop along to the Exhibition Centre and discovers why the artist retains such a massive cult […]

With the Brighton duo stepping up a gear to arenas, Glenn Gibson hails the return of the new kings of UK rock

Written by Christy Smyth, a Creative Writing student from Chesterfield, living in Liverpool. Digs Alice Cooper.

Ahead of the first Queer Rrriot Liverpool Pride event, Shaun Ponsonby talks to poet Mo Thu Lu about the need for an underground alternative to the mainstream Pride event.

Planet Slop’s Vicky Pea prepares to be welcomed to the Dark Ages by The Justified Ancients of Mu Mu. 

Sakura presents a gallery of the bearded behemoths as they bring their Tonnage Tour to Manchester’s O2 Apollo. 

Returning for it’s 5th year, LIMF overcomes the obstacles to retain it’s central place in Liverpool’s summer gig calendar.

Two huge live shows featuring two icons come to Liverpool’s Exhibition Centre this week with Gary Numan and Brian Wilson celebrating 50 Summers of Love.

Michael Edward anticipates a night of big hits as Placebo prepare for their 20th anniversary tour. 

The works of  renowned American pop artist Roy Lichtenstein are to be shown at Tate Liverpool.

As the BBC announce Jodie Whittaker as the first Time Lady, Sean Broadhurst argues that the change is not only canon, but central to the show. 

Michael Edward looks forward to a visit from the self proclaimed minimalist rock trio.

Planet Slop sends condolences to the family, friends and fans of Chester Bennington who has died aged 41.

As Twin Peaks starts to deliver answers, Chris Burgess looks at what we’ve learnt so far and more importantly, where it all may be leading. 

Africa Oyé and Mellowtone add another international star to their series of live celebratory dates. 

Glyn Akroyd exclusively premieres Limerance’s debut single, Shine On, with Planet Slop. 

As Nick Cave make the bold step up to an arena tour, Banjo traces his journey so far.

Ahead of this weekend’s adventures at LIMF, Soulfultiz shares the act he’s most looking forward to seeing.  

George A. Romero, the Godfather of the Dead, has died after a short battle with cancer. 

Yes, Glastonbury happened. In fact it feels long ago in the memory now, but that can’t be helped. Upon returning this year we promptly fell apart, hit down with the […]

With Detroit legends The Gories headlining, Mark Greenwood heads to Magnet for a whopper of a night from Harvest Sun.

Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth have overtaken Gangnam Style as the most popular video on YouTube, but Shaun Ponsonby finds it the musical equivalent of a Happy Meal toy.

Hot off the heels of their second festival, the reggae specialists are bringing Big Youth and Horace Andy to the Baltic Triangle. 

With Queen Zee & The Sasstones releasing their first music video, Shaun Ponsonby gets an exclusive behind the scenes look at these grotesquely beautiful stars in the making.

Continuing his regular column celebrating the urban scene in the North West, DJ2Kind introduces the incredible Rosh.

With Liverpool International Music Festival returning for it’s fifth installment, Planet Slop brings you all you need to know for this year’s festival. 

With the rock legends making a rare trip overseas, Shaun Ponsonby joins the sold out crowd in Hyde Park for Tom Petty’s long awaited 40th anniversary tour. 

Mark Greenwood gets all sorts of stoked to welcome The Gories to Liverpool.

With numerous generations of his family missing out on various incarnations of The Jacksons for decades, Shaun Ponsonby finally dances, shouts and shakes his body down to the ground. 

As electronic music heads The Waveform Transmitter reveal charity record and event, Shaun Ponsonby talks to mastermind Ste Knight about the project. 

Seeing his favourite band in the flesh, Paul Riley braves the tourists for Radiohead’s massive gig in Manchester.

With Glastonbury reactions highlighting the debate over elite and popular art, Alan Parry ponders the purpose of contemporary pop music.

With a jazz superstar in intimate surroundings, Soulfultiz is left captivated by the great Kamasi Washington.

A funk and soul all-dayer? Don’t mind if we do! Shaun Ponsonby checks out Craig Charles’ Beats, Beer & Boogaloo at Camp & Furnace.

With one of the great cult bands on a rare UK trek, Shaun Ponsonby finds Cheap Trick sounding as great as they ever did.

After an article on the death of the guitar led to mourning from some, Shaun Ponsonby argues that it isn’t worth your tears. 

Chris Burgess is back to declare “Holy Jesus Christ” and give his take on an hour of mind bending, ground breaking television courtesy of Twin Peaks. 

The groundbreaking collective are launching their new album at the Capstone Theatre, Shaun Ponsonby reports.

The acclaimed jazz saxophonist makes his Liverpool this week, Shaun Ponsonby reports.

As The Jacksons prepare to head to Blackpool without their much missed leader, Shaun Ponsonby considers the best of the rest of the iconic family. 

In a lame attempt for legitimacy, Shaun Ponsonby writes a supposedly mandatory article about Glastonbury, and looks at the major differences between two of 2017’s headliners.

Cancer Bats forming a Black Sabbath tribute band? Brian Sayle catches a curious, but arresting set.

As Africa Oyé turns 25, Shaun Ponsonby basks in the glory of what is arguably the best weekend on the Liverpool calendar.

With the only UK date for Springsteen’s right hand man being in Manchester, Shaun Ponsonby finally gets to see one of his heroes playing a solo set in the flesh.

Our own Mr Jackpots Chris Burgess is back to shovel his way out of the mega-meta headspin.

As KISS’ Gene Simmons tries to patent the devil horns hand gesture, Shaun Ponsonby looks back at the history of it’s usage. Spoiler: Gene didn’t invent it.  

An amazing line-up is set for AFROPUNK’s second London Festival, and Christina McKenna can hardly wait.

Craig Charles’ Beats, Beer and Boogaloo takes over Camp and Furnace, Shaun Ponsonby reports.

Ahead of Africa Oyé‘s landmark 25th festival, Janaya Pickett talks to director Paul Duhaney about the past, present and future of the UK’s largest celebration of African culture.

Having won Best New Festival at the UK Festival Awards, Shaun Ponsonby finds Liverpool’s reggae festival upping the ante. 

As Bat Sabbath head to the Arts Club, Brian Sayle gears up for a heavy night in homage to the Godfathers of Metal.

Following a General Election of twists and turns Paul Riley presents his thoughts on an inept Tory Campaign, and the challenges ahead for both Labour and Brexit.

Shaun Ponsonby keeps his eyes on the political and asks how audiences can possibly act surprised or offended when prominent, outspoken artists incorporate their views into their live shows. 

As Steven Speilberg looks into rebooting Animaniacs, Shaun Ponsonby pays tribute to one of his most beloved cartoons.

On the eve of Positive Vibration’s second festival, Soulfultiz headed to Art of Reggae Exhibition at Constellations.

Shy Billy premiere their latest single, Waiting Gracefully, exclusively with Planet Slop.

A perfect marriage of rock & soul, Shaun Ponsonby checks out California’s Vintage Trouble in Manchester.

Ahead of the broadcast of it’s second episode, Chris Burgess unlocks legendary Liverpool writer Jimmy McGovern’s new BBC series Broken, starring Sean Bean and Anna Friel.  

A strange Facebook page claims to be revealing the truth behind Liverpool conspiracy buster and occasional songwriter Ian McNabb, so Shaun Ponsonby tracked down the man behind it and demanded answers.

The urban scene in the North West often goes under-represented, so we asked L100’s DJ 2Kind to write a regular column celebrating the urban underground – starting with C-Two.

Don’t miss a thing across Liverpool and the North West with our new collaborative events calendar.

Returning like Twin Peaks on a different network, Shaun Ponsonby finds the all-new Cosmic Slop closer to Alien: Covenant.

Anyone expecting Sonic Youth’s greatest hits would have been sorely disappointed, but David North finds Thurston Moore’s celebration of The Mersey Sound captivating regardless.

Sakura was at The Ritz to see Liam Gallagher make his live return on a poignant night in Manchester. 

Liverpool International Festival of Psychedelia announce second wave of acts plus special stage curators. 

With Sound City’s tenth anniversary celebrations moving them to a new home, and some extra special one-off shows, Shaun Ponsonby and Paul Riley took in the sights and sounds.

Check out all you need to knows for Africa Oyé’s landmark 25th edition.

The Liverpool Disco Festival is back! Revving up for their second big event of the year, the Baltic Triangle will once again play host to what is quickly becoming one […]

Keeping his ear to the soulful underground, Soulfultiz checks out the debut single from London’s JVCK James.

Loving the return of Twin Peaks? Of course. Have no god damn idea whats happening? Naturally. Luckily Chris Burgess is here to enlighten us all.

24 Kitchen Street and CMD Presents bring a huge line-up to highlight the continuing impact of gentrification in Liverpool.

 A line-up that rivals All Tomorrow’s Parties at it’s zenith, Michael Edward heads to Manchester for a humungous night at the Victoria Warehouse.

Spearheaded by BET’s acclaimed miniseries The New Edition Story, Shaun Ponsonby confesses to an unlikely series of personal obsessions.

As Mariah Carey and Gary Barlow venture into Hollywood, Shaun Ponsonby dreads the onslaught of pop stars in movies.

Originally published on Getintothis

With hype over LGBT characters in several upcoming movies, Shaun Ponsonby asks why we haven’t reached a point where that isn’t a big deal.

As the hype surrounding Ed Sheeran’s new album starts to grate, Shaun Ponsonby would rather talk about Hieronymus Bosch and the mating habits of the Praying Mantis.

As Disney prepare their latest live action remake, Shaun Ponsonby considers whether they have any other option.

After Andrew Ridgeley paid tribute to his former Wham! bandmate at BRITS, Shaun Ponsonby answers the question on virtually nobody’s lips.

Back for his annual plea deal punishment Shaun Ponsonby breaks down the 2017 Brit Awards.

For his milestone 100th Cosmic Slop, Shaun Ponsonby shuns the celebrations to concentrate on trashing people more talented than him at the Grammys.

Despite plaudits from fans and the media, Shaun Ponsonby noticed a strange school of thought developing around Lady GaGa’s Super Bowl performance.

As every article written all week was about the protests, Shaun Ponsonby nearly gave up his column, until an astonishing announcement from Gary Barlow.

As nobody’s favourite obnoxious punching bag, Chris Brown, stirs controversy once again, Shaun Ponsonby asks why we bother to keep him around.

Since Michael Buble had to give up his high profile gig, Shaun Ponsonby somehow manages to tie the Brits, Showgirls and Joe Swash together in a nice little package.

Responding to social media self-righteousness, Shaun Ponsonby does his usual half-arsed rant.

As 2016 ends in a mire of disappointment, Shaun Ponsonby takes a look back at the year in innocuous bullshit via self-serving conceit.

The BBC Music Awards returns for its third depressing year, and as ever Shaun Ponsonby watched it so you don’t have to.

Originally published on Getintothis As the race for the Christmas number one gets closer to the finish line, Shaun Ponsonby looks at this year’s favourites.  Here we go, people! It is that […]

Originally published on Getintothis Following pretend outrage over NME’s album of the year, Shaun Ponsonby asks why anyone would care what the magazine put on top of their list. I’ve never really […]

Originally posted on Getintothis As Kanye West is hospitalised following a series of bizarre outbursts, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby asks if we should back off and let him deal with his […]

Originally posted on Getintothis As a plethora of artists ready their seasonal albums, Shaun Ponsonby exclusively reveals his own Christmas record to the nation.  

Originally posted on Getintothis Following the shock result in the US election, as ever Shaun Ponsonby is focussed on the bigger issues. 

Originally posted on Getintothis As the abysmal American election reaches its conclusion, Shaun Ponsonby suggests a reality TV show that can help politics build on Trumpageddon. 

Originally posted on Getintothis As Bieber makes headlines for shushing his audience, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby reckons it matters little given that Biebs has nothing to say. 

Originally posted on Getintothis As Joe Jonas unveils his new, sexy image, Shaun Ponsonby finds little worth masturbating over. 

Originally posted on GetintothisAs Bruno Mars reveals the first single off his new album, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby wonders when he is going to get an identity of his own. 

Originally posted on Getintothis As Seasick Steve is revealed to be something of a fraud, Shaun Ponsonby responds with a resounding “so what?”

Originally posted on Getintothis As FIFA shuts down its racism taskforce, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby congratulates them for having “completely fulfilled” their mission.  

Originally posted on Getintothis As the world trolls Corey Feldman, Shaun Ponsonby asks if his performance was really that bad. 

Originally posted on Getintothis With new records supposedly being broken every week and Olly Murs complaining about the lack of fairness in the charts, Shaun Ponsonby asks how much streaming […]

Originally posted on Getintothis As UB40 support Jeremy Corbyn at a weird press conference this week, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby tries to get his head around it by applying the contradictory […]

Originally posted on Getintothis As the MTV Video Music Awards desperately plod on, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby decided to watch it so you didn’t have to. 

Originally posted on Getintothis Following James Corden’s attempts to sing a Prince song with Coldplay, Shaun Ponsonby seems just about ready to give up. 

As we reach an Orwellian dictatorship where Gary Lineker is Big Brother, Shaun Ponsonby predicts a radical uprising of oppressed non-football fans. 

Originally posted on Getintothis As rumours run rife regarding Adele’s involvement in the Super Bowl, Shaun Ponsonby asks how appropriate she is. 

Originally posted on Getintothis As Donald Trump officially becomes the Republican nominee for the American election, Getintothis’ Shaun Ponsonby explores the sole musical endeavour of his daughter.

Following this year’s festivities, Shaun Ponsonby ponders on the lessons he learned at LIMF 2016.

Originally posted on Getintothis With T In The Park in crisis, Shaun Ponsonby asks if the audiences at major British music festivals has chaged beyond recognition.

Originally posted on Getintothis As the rise of The 1975 continues, Shaun Ponsonby feels a sense of déjà vu with front man Matt Healy.  

Originally posted on Getintothis With the country in disarray, Shaun Ponsonby decides that if the news can still afford to report on non-stories, then he can too. 

Following obvious recent events, Shaun Ponsonby tries to explain where the country is via a classic episode of The Simpsons and the Catholic method of contraception.

Originally posted on Getintothis With 60% of the Spice Girls expected to reunite with replacements, Shaun Ponsonby wonders who the bloody hell would want to see that.  

Originally posted on Getintothis Following a claim about an on-stage incident, Shaun Ponsonby explores a recent pandemic.