North East heavy metal fan stories sought for upcoming podcast series

Image: Promotional photograph of Newcastle band Atomkraft by Pete Cronin

A new six-part podcast series is set to uncover the origins of the heavy metal music scene in the North East.

The series will be narrated by local radio stalwart Alan Robson and explore pioneering bands such as Venom, Raven, Atomkraft and Tygers of Pan Tang.

It will also feature an episode dedicated to the North East fan scene, heavy metal culture and the legendary venues of the area.

Producers from Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums (TWAM) are now calling on fans to share their stories, memories and photographs of heavy metal in the North East from 1978-1988.

Sarah Younas, Digital Producer at TWAM, said:

“I would love to hear from people who were out at places like the Mayfair, Man on the Moon, the Locarno, Mingles and the Percy Arms back then. People who used to hang out at the Handyside Arcade, read Sounds and Kerrang! magazines and listen to radio shows like Hot ‘n’ Heavy Express and Bedrock.

“I’m really interested in building up a picture of what the culture was like, so I want to hear from people who have stories to tell and don't mind being interviewed for inclusion in the podcast. I also want photographs!”

Anyone who would like to contribute can contact stories@twmuseums.org.uk to share memories and photographs.

Image: Tobruk released material on Newcastle's Neat Records label. Photo © John Tucker

The as-yet-unnamed podcast will be available to download from Thursday 27 February 2020. Details of a special launch event will be released shortly.

Please contact Jonathan Loach - Jonathan.Loach@twmuseums.org.uk 0191 277 2168