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Closest Thing To Heaven: The Newcastle Music Scene in the 70s and 80s

Closest Thing To Heaven: The Newcastle Music Scene in the 70s and 80s

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  • More about Closest Thing To Heaven: The Newcastle Music Scene in the 70s and 80s

The Closest Thing to Heaven is a unique photographic record of the Newcastle music scene in the 1970s and 80s, featuring a mixture of professional and amateur photos capturing the energy and DIY ethos of the bands and artists. Despite social upheavals and economic recession, people were still keen to go out any night of the week, and the atmosphere of the scene is captured by shots taken from within the crowd of local bands. The book also features important venues, labels, art, and people that were major part of Newcastle's music culture at this time, covering various genres including post punk and electronic music.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 09 December 2020
Publisher: Newcastle Libraries & Information Service


The Closest Thing to Heaven is a captivating photographic journey through the vibrant music scene of Newcastle in the 1970s and 80s. This remarkable collection showcases a diverse range of professional and amateur photographs, capturing the raw energy and DIY spirit of the bands and artists that graced the city's loyal audiences. Despite the backdrop of social upheavals and economic recession in Britain during this era, there remained a steadfast determination among people to venture out into the night, seeking solace and entertainment amidst the challenges. The atmosphere of this scene is vividly captured through the intimate shots taken from within the enthusiastic crowds of local bands like Prefab Sprout, The Kane Gang, and Arthur 2 Stroke.

In addition to the music, this book delves into the rich tapestry of Newcastle's music culture, featuring prominent venues, labels, artists, and individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping the city's musical landscape. Spanning various genres, from post-punk and electronic music to more traditional rock, this photo book serves as a nostalgic reminder of a carefree youth for those who experienced it as "The Closest Thing to Heaven."

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 202 x 253 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838280901

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