Kaiser Chiefs, Declan McKenna & Bongo's Bingo to close Virgin Money Unity Arena
Kaiser Chiefs, Declan McKenna & Bongo's Bingo to close Virgin Money Unity Arena
Indie legends Kaiser Chiefs, singer-songwriter Declan McKenna and Bongo's Bingo have been confirmed as the closing acts to perform at the pioneering Virgin Money Unity Arena.
Taking place across next weekend, the final instalment of shows will be a fitting and rousing end to what has been one of the few success stories for the music industry as the world still comes to terms with the impact of Covid-19.
The UK’s only active music venue will welcome Leeds indie gods Kaiser Chiefs to its stage on Saturday 19th September, preceded by a final showing of the ever-popular Bongo's Bingo (set to take place that afternoon), and followed by the chart-topping and much loved Declan McKenna on Sunday 20th September.
Speaking ahead of today's announcement, Festival organiser Steve Davis, said: “We are delighted with how the event has worked out and we're extremely grateful to Newcastle City Council and to all local residents. Their positive can-do attitude has helped employ over 150 people in the local music industry for the last six weeks.
“We plan to make these final shows a big celebration for the city and its music fans. We are delighted with the line-up that will bring the event to a fitting finale.”
Kaiser Chiefs need little introduction. Led by their charismatic frontman Ricky Wilson, they have gone on to be one of the UK's most prolific guitar bands since forming in Leeds at the turn of the century. The band are custom-made for the festival experience and are set to belt out their anthemic indie hits which include ‘Oh My God’, ‘I Predict A Riot’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less And Less’, ‘Ruby’ and ‘Never Miss A Beat’.
KAISER CHIEFS
British indie singer/songwriter Declan McKenna first emerged in 2015 with the shimmering, politically charged single "Brazil”.
With a self-confessed deep love for Bowie and with an attitude recalling the Libertines and Jamie T, McKenna blends bright indie-pop with the textural lo-fi.
All six of his previously released singles eventually wound up on his bright, eclectic debut album, What Do You Think About the Car?, produced by Simian Mobile Disco's James Ford and released in summer 2017.
His follow up album, Zeros, arrived in September 2020, and recently went head to head with the Rolling Stones for the number one album chart position.
Self-described as "a major step on from my first record," McKenna cited influences from David Bowie to Crosby, Stills & Nash in the album's artistic direction.
DECLAN MCKENNA