Cities in Conversation
We’re excited to be featured alongside some exceptionally talented Northern creatives and cultural hubs in the latest edition from Toothgrinder Press. Local is a brilliant project curated by Guernsey‑born DJ and producer Mura Masa in collaboration with Toothgrinder and powered by Relentless Energy.
The initiative took the form of a three‑stop tour across under‑appreciated corners of Northern England, Stockton‑on‑Tees (June 13), Blackpool (June 19), and Bradford (June 20). Each night curated in partnership with local tastemakers Boo (Stockton‑on‑Tees), Mia Lily (Blackpool), and ZMARAKS (Bradford). A core aim was to: celebrate grassroots artists and question how to make things happen for under‑represented talent from outside the major cities.
Inspired by Xander’s (Mura Masa) curator’s notes, Local began with a vision to curate grassroots showcase nights featuring homegrown musicians in intimate venues, capturing the spirit and richness of Northern talent. That vision now lives on in this packed, free digital and printed publication.
We’re honoured to be featured thanks to co‑curator Boo, DJ, electronic musician and Tees Valley Artist of the Year, alongside standout acts and venues from Teesside.
Designed by multidisciplinary press Toothgrinder, the publication offers a visual archive of each tour stop, behind‑the‑scenes moments, and interviews with artists, promoters and local voices, serving both as a creative snapshot and a rally cry for cultural decentralisation.
This edition is free to grab at local drops including Off the Ground and Regency Vinyl, or download the digital zine via Toothgrinder’s platform.