Northlight Arts Centre is the kind of venue that immediately puts you at ease when you step through the doors. Warm, welcoming and filled with a sense of community, it provides the perfect backdrop for Circle Social, a monthly gathering of music and friendly faces.
Held on the second Friday of every month, this event is free to attend, with donations welcome, making it an accessible and inclusive space for all. The space itself is intimate yet vibrant and brings in a diverse crowd spanning all ages. With a selection of hot drinks, alcoholic beverages and comforting toasties on offer, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy your night.
The performers are surrounded by artwork, blending seamlessly into the gallery space, leaving guests to experience creative energy beyond just the music. It’s an environment where artistry and community intertwine effortlessly, making the night a very wholesome experience overall. The relaxed environment of Northlight Arts Centre also makes it the perfect space for both seasoned artists and newcomers to showcase their skills, allowing creativity to flow freely.
Circle Social is all about showcasing talent, and the line up I had the pleasure of watching for February’s Circle Social event did not disappoint. The evening featured three very talented acts: Saalhiah, Lemon and Ginger and Lonan, each bringing something unique to the stage.
Saalhiah
Leeds’ own Saalhiah opened the evening with a masterclass in musical minimalism. The singer-songwriter, who draws deeply from her personal experiences, captivated the room with crystalline vocals and an intimate performance style. Her standout track “Unknown” demonstrated her gift for dynamic control, evolving from gentle guitar work and whispered verses into a powerful climax that showcased her full vocal range.
Lemon and Ginger
Duo Lemon and Ginger followed with a thoughtfully curated set, exploring women’s narratives through song. The partnership between Rosie (guitar, vocals) and Elaine (keys, vocals) was a joy to witness, their natural chemistry evident in the way they watched and responded to each other’s performances. Their instrumental diversity shone through as they moved between accordion, acoustic guitar, piano and organ across their half-hour set. The performance concluded with Kirkstall Almanac, both friends of the band and Circle Social organisers, joining them onstage for an exhilarating rendition of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” adding bass and ukulele to the mix.
Lonan
Yorkshire folk trio Lonan brought the evening to a magnificent close with a set that celebrated the breadth of traditional music. The group – comprising Evan Davies (mandolin, fiddle, guitar, vocals), Katy Ryder (flute, whistles, guitar, vocals), and Robin Timmis (guitar, fiddle, vocals) – displayed remarkable versatility, smoothly transitioning between instruments and tunings whilst sharing fascinating historical context for their material in the finest sense of folk tradition. Their performance of “The Shearing,” a nine-minute ballad chronicling a Scottish farmer’s wife’s life, was particularly mesmerizing, creating a moment where time seemed to pause as the story unfolded.
Circle Social is a great platform for aspiring performers, with guest spots available for anyone looking to share their talents. Whether you’re a singer or an instrumentalist, these open spots provide a fantastic opportunity to step into the spotlight and connect with an appreciative, welcoming audience.
If you’re in Leeds and looking for a warm and uplifting way to spend an evening, Circle Social at Northlight Arts Centre is well worth your time. Whether you’re there to perform, discover new talent, or simply soak in the friendly atmosphere with a drink and a toastie, you’ll leave feeling more connected to the creative side that Leeds holds.
I’d highly recommend attending Circle Social for anyone seeking a fun and musically rich night out.
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Words by Daisy Shortt with contributions from Jim Phelps.
Photography by Millie Stephens. Main image: Saahliah.
