On Saturday night I headed out to a new event hosted by Middlesbrough’s contemporary art gallery, mima.
mimaLIVE #1was the first in a series of gigs planned over the next five months to celebrate Pop Art and featured an eclectic line-up of local talent and renowned world music artists.
The evening’s entertainment was held in mima’s garden, a small and secluded space behind the gallery building, just off Middlesbrough’s Centre Square. The location helped give the event a secretive feel, a mini-festival for those looking for an alternative night out.
Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t the greatest for an outdoor display of live music, but that didn’t stop it being a great event with a buzzing atmosphere, despite the relatively small, yet diverse crowd.
Quite a few people brought their young children along and it was really lovely to see them playing on the grass and enjoying the music.
First onstage were Middlesbrough band Be Quiet. Shout Loud! I’ve never heard any of their songs before, but I’m definitely a convert. Their catchy disco punk tunes had me dancing and I’ll definitely be checking out more of their material online.
They were followed by Darlington alt blues act Goy Boy McIlroy and both bands gave an electric and energetic performance.
Indian group The Jaipur Kawa Brass Band hit the stage just after dark and entertained with their lively music, colourful costumes and a display of tricks and illusion. Having previously played Glastonbury and Bestival, the band clearly knows how to thrill audiences of all sizes.
Local band The Approved closed the night’s entertainment and by this time mima’s garden had attracted a crowd, even though the rain had started again.
Special mention has to go to Browne’s Temperance Bar who provided a cute display of confectionery and cordials alongside mima’s bottle bar.
mimaLIVE was a lot of fun and I’ll definitely be checking out the line-up for the rest of the shows.
The next event is on the 28th September as part of Middlesbrough Live. You can find out more on mima’s website.