SUMMER SESSIONS take place this year at six amazing venues across the country. We’ll be covering all 4 of the events that take place on The Hoe in the heart of Plymouth and what a lineup they have in store for us.

Here’s the lowdown on the first event that takes place on Thursday 12th June.

Once you have read all bios, please click on the playlist at the bottom to enjoy all tracks mentioned.

JAMES / RAZORLIGHT / JAMIE WEBSTER / TOM A. SMITH

JAMES is a British indie-rock band formed in Manchester in 1982. The original lineup included bassist Jim Glennie, guitarist Paul Gilbertson, drummer Gavan Whelan, and vocalist Tim Booth. 

The band adopted the name "JAMES” in August 1982, inspired by various influences, including a tribute to writer James Joyce. 

The band gained prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s with their distinctive blend of alternative rock and folk influences. They are best known for their energetic live performances and introspective lyrics. 

If it’s key tracks you’re looking for as a reminder of just how great the bane are, head to Spotify or any other of the streaming channels and check out tracks such as ‘Sit Down’, ‘Come Home’ and ‘Laid’. 

If you have time, why not get comfy and listen to an entire album, you could dive into the early ‘Stutter’ which was released in 1986 which sounds very raw and complex, ‘Laid’ which was released in 1993 and produced by Brian Eno which showcases a much more stripped-down sound or why not the 2018 released ‘Living in Extraordinary Times’ which reflects contemporary themes and a much more mature sound.

Either way, when JAMES hit the stage at the Summer Sessions in Plymouth, you’re in for a treat, they are incredible live, dare I say, even better now than they were in the early 90’s when I saw them a few times.

RAZORLIGHT is an Anglo-Swedish indie rock band formed in London during the summer of 2002. The original lineup consisted of vocalist and guitarist Johnny Borrell, guitarist Björn Ågren, bassist Carl Dalemo, and drummer Andy Burrows. 

To get you in the mood, check out ‘Golden Touch’ from 2004 which is a standout single from their debut album, known for its catchy melody and storytelling lyrics, ‘In the Morning’ from 2006 which is the lead single from their self-titled second album, which reached number three on the UK Singles Chart or ‘America’ from 2006, a chart-topping hit that offers a reflective look at transatlantic relations, showcasing the band's evolving sound.

If you’d like to dig deeper, why not get comfy and spin an entire album, ‘Up All Night’ is their debut album, released on June 28, 2004, it reached number three on the UK Albums Chart. It features energetic tracks like ‘Golden Touch’ and ‘Somewhere Else’, their follow up album ‘Razorlight’, released on July 17, 2006, this self-titled album debuted at number one in the UK. It includes hits like ‘In the Morning’ and ‘America’. To bring yourself right up to date, check out their latest work, ‘Planet Nowhere’ from 2024, this marked the first album with the original lineup in 16 years and features the lead single ‘Scared Of Nothing’.

Whatever you listen to, you can look forward to an energetic, career spanning set from this amazing band that truly have stood the test of time!

JAMIE WEBSTER is a singer-songwriter from Liverpool, who has gained recognition for his authentic storytelling and connection to working-class culture. He began his musical journey performing in local pubs and became known for his renditions of football chants, particularly those associated with Liverpool Football Club. This grassroots exposure laid the foundation for his solo career, where he transitioned to original compositions reflecting the lives and experiences of everyday people.

Dig deeper into his repertoire with the following tracks, ‘Weekend in Paradise’ which is a candid portrayal of escapism and the weekend culture, this track resonates with many for its relatable lyrics and catchy melody. ‘This Place’ which is an ode to his hometown, Webster captures the essence of Liverpool, highlighting both its challenges and its indomitable spirit and ‘Something's Gotta Give’ which is a song that delves into societal issues, reflecting a desire for change and a better future.

If it’s long players you’re after, try ‘We Get By’ his 2020 debut release, which reached number 6 on the UK Albums Chart, showcases his storytelling prowess with tracks that paint vivid pictures of working-class life. ‘Moments’ from 2021 which builds on his initial success, this album offers a mix of introspective ballads and upbeat anthems, further cementing his place in the UK music scene and ’10 For The People’ from 2024, this is his latest release and  continues to explore themes close to his heart, delivering songs that resonate with a broad audience.

Jamie Webster's live shows are renowned for their energetic atmosphere and communal spirit. His performances often feel like a gathering of friends, with audiences passionately singing along to every word. In November 2023, he played a sold-out hometown show at Liverpool’s M&S Arena to a crowd of 11,000, a testament to his growing popularity. 

He’s going to bring his cheeky scouse wit with him to Plymouth in July, make sure you’re there to catch his set.

TOM A. SMITH is a singer-songwriter from Sunderland, who has been making waves in the music scene with his compelling storytelling and emotive performances. He began his musical journey at a remarkably young age, playing his first gig at just eight years old, supporting Newcastle's Detroit Social Club at The Cluny. Before even entering secondary school, he performed at Glastonbury Festival, and was handpicked by Tim Burgess of The Charlatans to play at Kendal Calling, making him the festival's youngest ever performer at that time.

To get a feel for Smith’s music, check out ‘Wolves’ from 2021, This is his debut single, released when he was 17, showcasing his mature songwriting abilities and has been well-received for its depth and musicality. ‘Boltcutters’ from 2021 which features on his debut EP, "EP1," this track highlights his distinctive vocals and storytelling prowess and finally ‘Get Me Started’ from 2024, an acclaimed single that further establishes his presence in the music scene.

Tom A. Smith is known for his engaging live shows, which captivate audiences with their energy and emotional depth. He has graced numerous festival stages, including Glastonbury and Kendal Calling, and has been recognised as "One To Watch" by BBC Introducing North East and Apple Music's Matt Wilkinson. 

In 2024, Tom collaborated with Alice Johnson of the band Swim School on the emotionally charged single "I Don't Want You to Have to Remember Me for Longer Than You Ever Knew Me." The track has been praised for its raw honesty and the seamless blend of their vocals, creating a poignant listening experience. 

Tom A. Smith is an artist who has already made a name for himself on the music scene, catch him now before he explodes.

Tickets available HERE