Opus Kink Releases Compelling Compilation Album to Support Grassroots Music Venues
by vmp
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights:
- Introduction
- The Importance of Grassroots Venues
- Artist Contributions and Tracklist
- The Current State of the UK Music Scene
- The Role of the Music Venue Trust
- The Impact of Closure on Local Communities
- A Collective Call to Action
Key Highlights:
- ‘A Hideous Collection’: A compilation album featuring 24 tracks from various artists to support the Music Venue Trust and the UK Touring Artists Fund, scheduled for release on September 5.
- Artist Contributions: Notable tracks from artists such as Katy J Pearson, Wunderhorse, and Lambrini Girls will be included, underscoring the diverse talent in the UK music scene.
- Urgent Call for Support: The album aims to raise awareness and funds for struggling independent music venues facing closure at alarming rates.
Introduction
The UK music scene is renowned for its vibrant grassroots venues that serve as the breeding ground for emerging talent. However, the ongoing struggles these venues face have raised alarms among artists and industry stakeholders alike. In a bold move to address this crisis, the post-punk sextet Opus Kink has announced the release of ‘A Hideous Collection,’ a compilation album designed to provide financial support to the Music Venue Trust and the UK Touring Artists Fund. Launching on September 5, this album not only showcases a variety of artists but also serves as a clarion call for the preservation of live music culture in the UK.
The Importance of Grassroots Venues
Grassroots venues hold a special place in the music ecosystem. They provide a platform for new artists to perform, gain experience, and connect with audiences. Unfortunately, a recent report from the Music Venue Trust revealed that the UK is losing one grassroots venue every fortnight. This alarming trend has spurred an urgent response from artists, including Kate Nash, who has described the situation as “a fucking disgrace.” The closure of venues not only impacts artists but also erodes the cultural landscape of music in the UK.
Opus Kink’s compilation album emerges against this backdrop of crisis, focusing on the necessity of supporting independent venues that often operate on limited budgets. The band articulated this sentiment in a press statement, emphasizing the passion of venue organizers and the precarious nature of their operations. The hope is that through initiatives like this compilation, a renewed awareness and support can emerge, helping to sustain the venues that nurture the artists.
Artist Contributions and Tracklist
‘A Hideous Collection’ features an impressive lineup of 24 tracks from a diverse array of artists. Some of the highlights include:
- Big Special with “Cooked Fish”
- Katy J Pearson contributing “Tonight”
- Wunderhorse offering a live version of “Rain”
The album also includes a foreword by BBC 6 Music DJ Steve Lamacq, adding a layer of credibility and insight into the compilation's importance. The collaborative nature of this project underscores the collective effort within the music industry to combat the challenges faced by grassroots venues.
The full tracklist showcases a blend of live performances and studio recordings, highlighting the raw energy and creativity that independent artists bring to their music. This collection serves not only as a means to raise funds but also as a celebration of the diverse musical landscape in the UK.
Vinyl One Tracklist
- Foreword From Steve Lamacq
- Big Special – “Cooked Fish”
- Katy J Pearson – “Tonight”
- Luvcat – “He’s My Man (live in Cologne)”
- Honeyglaze – “Turn Out Right”
- Matt Maltese – “Please Don’t Kill Me”
- Opus Kink – “Thank You Satan”
- Lambrini Girls – “Big Dick Energy (live in Seattle)”
- Warmduscher – “YAKUZA”
- TTSSFU – “Upstairs”
- Hamish Hawk – “Burning Up”
- Wunderhorse – “Rain (live)”
Vinyl Two Tracklist
- Antony Szmierek – “Independent Venue Week Poem”
- Friedberg – “Haha”
- Hot Wax – “Chip My Teeth (live at Rough Trade East)”
- Getdown Services – “AONB”
- Gurriers – “Approachable (Chris. W. Ryan. version)”
- Nova Twins – “Monsters (live)”
- cumgirl8 – “Goblin”
- The Oozes – “The Entertainer”
- Los Bitchos – “Turkish Delight”
- Oracle Sisters – “Wait For Me”
- English Teacher – “Yorkshire Tapas”
- mary in the junkyard – “ghost (demo)”
The Current State of the UK Music Scene
The struggles of grassroots venues are compounded by economic pressures that make touring increasingly difficult for artists. As costs rise, many musicians find themselves unable to afford the logistics of touring, which is essential for building a career in music. Joff Oddie from Wolf Alice has pointed out that the music scene risks becoming a “middle and upper class sport,” as access to opportunities dwindles for those outside of affluent backgrounds.
The Music Venue Trust has been vocal about the need for systemic reforms to protect these venues, calling for a “full, long overdue reform.” The Trust's findings reveal a grim reality: small venues are closing at a “disastrous rate,” and the complete collapse of touring is becoming a real threat. Without immediate action, the landscape of live music in the UK could be irrevocably altered.
The Role of the Music Venue Trust
The Music Venue Trust plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights and needs of grassroots venues. Their initiatives aim to raise awareness, provide support, and lobby for better conditions for independent venues. By partnering with artists like Opus Kink for projects such as ‘A Hideous Collection,’ they are amplifying the message that these venues need urgent attention and support.
The Trust's reports, presented at venues like the Houses of Parliament, have drawn attention to the dire circumstances faced by independent venues. Artists, venue owners, and industry professionals have united to demand action from policymakers to ensure the survival of these essential spaces.
The Impact of Closure on Local Communities
The closure of grassroots venues extends beyond the music industry; it impacts local communities and economies. These venues often serve as cultural hubs, providing spaces for creativity, social interaction, and community engagement. When a venue closes, it removes a vital resource for local musicians and audiences alike, leading to a loss of cultural identity in the area.
Moreover, the economic implications are significant. Grassroots venues contribute to the local economy by attracting patrons, supporting local businesses, and creating jobs. Their closure can lead to economic decline in neighborhoods that rely on the vibrancy of live music to draw visitors and support local economies.
A Collective Call to Action
Opus Kink’s compilation album stands as a rallying cry for music lovers, artists, and industry stakeholders to come together in support of grassroots venues. By purchasing ‘A Hideous Collection,’ individuals not only enjoy a diverse range of music but also contribute to a cause that seeks to preserve the cultural fabric of the UK music scene.
The band’s poignant message, “Please enjoy the sounds of some of the artists who help to keep alive the places that birthed them,” encapsulates the essence of this project. It is a reminder of the interconnectedness of artists and venues, and the necessity of supporting both to ensure a thriving music ecosystem.
FAQ
What is ‘A Hideous Collection’?
‘A Hideous Collection’ is a compilation album featuring 24 tracks from various artists, created to raise funds for the Music Venue Trust and the UK Touring Artists Fund.
When will the album be released?
The album is set to be released on September 5 and will be available on CD and vinyl.
How will the funds be used?
The funds raised from the album sales will support the Music Venue Trust and initiatives aimed at helping struggling grassroots venues across the UK.
Who are some of the artists featured on the album?
The album includes contributions from artists like Katy J Pearson, Wunderhorse, Lambrini Girls, and more, showcasing a diverse range of talent.
Why is supporting grassroots venues important?
Grassroots venues are essential for nurturing emerging talent and sustaining the music culture. Their closure threatens the diversity and accessibility of live music, making support crucial for future generations of artists and audiences.
How can I support the cause?
Purchasing ‘A Hideous Collection’ is one way to support grassroots venues. Additionally, raising awareness about the challenges these venues face and advocating for systemic change can help ensure their survival.