Liverpool Sound City: Courtney Barnett, DZ Deathrays Kick Off Day One

Liverpool’s essential new music extravaganza Sound City kicks off today. DIY’s escaping its London bunker for a few days to track down football hipsters and the best new bands.

We’re taking over the Duke Street Garage from 1st-3rd May, with the likes of Royal Blood and Jagwar Ma still to play.

Day one sees Brighton’s Blood Red Shoes cement the brilliance of their new self-titled album by closing out the Garage with an after-hours 1am set.

Elsewhere across the festival, Courtney Barnett begins a big trip around the UK ahead of the release of her forthcoming debut full-length. She plays the Zanzibar at 00.15am.

Jon Hopkins (00.00, Nation) and Thumpers (01.15, The Zanzibar) are also on the top of punters’ must-see lists today.

The music kicks off in the early evening, with Jack Garrett (19.00, Leaf Cafe) and Ballet School (21.00, Duke Street Garage) making their first Sound City appearances.

For a full guide to DIY’s Stage on 1st May, head here.

The full Liverpool Sound City schedule can be found here - download their planner & app here.

Have a listen to the best new names playing Day One of Liverpool Sound City: