Last night’s gig at The Basement was an electric celebration of emerging local talent. Three young bands, with Vagabond headlining, put on a show that could easily rival veteran performers.

By Katie Stewart

Photos by Stuart Duthie

Openers Some Lions and District! were polished and high-energy from the start, perfectly heating up the crowd for the raging performance to follow. It was District!’s first live gig, showing off three stellar original songs, performing with fluidity, self-assurance, and control. They’ve surely secured themselves a deserved loyal fanbase. I’m excited to see what they do next.

Vagabond stepped in with a similarly relaxed authority and natural command. Bassist/singer Finley Walker had the audience in the palm of his hands with his playful yet composed crowd-work.

Revamping old-school punk rock into a fresh, 2000s punk-pop sound, the band have clearly mastered their style – with all their songs feeling cohesive and together, whilst also demonstrating the span of their instrument-playing skills. Chris Barnard’s drumming stood out throughout; lightning fast, with razor sharp precision, anchoring the band’s musical identity. He changed tempo throughout the songs, toying with the energy of the crowd and making the songs’ hooks hit even harder, sometimes edging into more swinging, funky beats, and kept the crowd on their toes in the best way possible.

Fitting together like pieces of a puzzle, chunky yet melodic guitar riffs delivered with exceptional skill and effortlessness, and complex basslines showed the band’s unity, togetherness, and musical chemistry.

Guitarist and singer Olly Lee, with his iconic black and yellow electric guitar, was the prime example of raw expertise. Balanced, tight, rhythmic, his guitar playing was addictive and catchy. Even better, though, were his insane vocals. Lee showed off his vocal range with satisfying harmonies, powerful and bright tone, and crystal-clear diction. His voice didn’t falter for one moment of the set.

Vagabond are certainly ones to watch. I’ll end with this: those kids got talent.

Some Lions, District! and Vagabond played at The Basement, York on Friday 23 January 2026.