Boom Leeds announce first shows in new Canalside venue after forced closure

Boom Leeds is officially back. The iconic DIY venue, long at the heart of the city’s hardcore and alternative scene, has announced its first run of shows at a brand-new Canalside location, just months after being forced to shut down its Millwright Street home.

The venue, which had operated from its old site since 2013, closed its doors this March after a long fight to stay afloat during and after the pandemic. Its lease was terminated by the landlord, with plans to convert the building into flats and retail space. At the time, Boom’s future was uncertain, but the team promised they weren’t done yet.

That promise has been kept. Fuelled by a crowdfunding campaign, benefit gigs, and endless community graft, Boom has now confirmed that it will reopen later this month on Armley Road, right next to the 1,000-capacity venue Project House. 

The new space will not only house intense riffs and pits, but has been set up as a Community Interest Company (CIC) space, which will offer things like rehearsal spaces and recording studios for the local scene, as well as educational and community facilities, and much more. 

In a statement on Instagram announcing their next step, Boom Leeds said: “Thanks to six months of fundraising, merch projects and countless volunteer hours, we've already started to transform the space and can't wait to welcome you all back this month. 

“There's plenty to do and it's definitely a work in progress, but opening for gigs is our next big step in raising the funds we need.”

The first show will take place on May 21, with Leeds hardcore outfit Bodyweb (featuring members of Higher Power) headlining, plus Long Goodbye, imissyoualready, Crowquil and Monroe in support.

On May 22, Inhuman Nature will top the bill, with Grief Ritual, Sidewinder and Hard Stare also playing. A Boom Garage show on the same night will feature Indikator B, Korido, Scab and Thick Water.

Ratos de Porão, Tormented Imp and Internal Riot are confirmed for May 30.

Be a part of the next chapter of the best space in Leeds dedicated to punk, hardcore, metal, and all that makes your head bang, and head to the link on their Instagram to secure tickets!

The venue’s crowdfunder is also still live and open for donations. If you want to help them out, you can do so - HERE

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.