On the night of 27 February 2026 down in York’s City Screen basement, a cacophony of vampiric, metal-headed rockers gathered to revel in several goth-infused punk bands.

By Hannah Brown

Photos by Stuart Duthie

The line-up featured Sweeping Statement who pummelled the venue with progressive and fiery riffs, Blair Bitch Project who transmitted psychedelic grunge and headliner Vagabond who topped off the event hardcore distortion and confrontational lyrics. The latter won Jorvik Radio’s Battle of the Bands in 2025.

The crowd consisted of York’s underground, teenage punk scene who transformed the venue into a pounding madhouse. They clamoured and romped passionately in exultation of their beloved genre, channelling anarchic undertones.

It was an evening of vigorous expression, intense shrieking from both the performers and audience, and adamant attempts at forming mosh pits. Each talented young band executed their sets with such exhilaration that it ignited the crowd like a bottomless powder keg.

They all had one common incentive: defying the confines of discrimination and societal shallowness. In association with Love Music Hate Racism, the bands proved that ‘there is more that unites us than divides us,’ and that juvenile rage can be unleashed by reclaiming power and expression.

Sweeping Statement’s lead vocalist Monty yelped and bellowed over thunderous ostinatos, heavy with unrestrained angst played by guitarist Henry and bassist Andrew. Drummer Eben knitted their agitated sound together with watertight, crashing beats. Songs like Mozzarella shone the concept of cheese in an unusually aggressive light.

Blair Bitch Project exuded wild, feral innuendos of P J Harvey and Bikini Kill with notable vocals from various members including drummer and vocalist Lily. The girls’ potent voices often surged with intense vibrato over kaleidoscopic, relentless instrumentation. They demonstrated serious Riot Grrrl energy that transported us back to the ‘90s. They also blasted a selection of hypnotic originals with raunchy, spiralling basslines and enticing melodies.

By the time Vagabond was up, the crowd had entered the peak state of their frenzy. They channelled a flavour of punk-pop that hits the midpoint between the kind of indie rock of Arctic Monkeys and the gritty punk of the Sex Pistols. The vocals often felt urgent and authentic over their overdriven, rapid guitar grooves. They addressed themes ranging from daily school life to confectionery with songs like chocolate-themed Freddo Fantasy.

The gig went out with an unruly bang as the crowd’s enthusiasm soared.

Sweeping Statement, Blair Bitch Project, and Vagabond played at The Basement, City Screen Picture House on Friday 27 February 2026.