My 6 NAC Playlist Picks

Hey there! I’m Suzanne. If you’ve been around Newhampton Arts Centre (NAC), you might remember me from the front lines—managing the house since 2012 and more recently, stepping into the marketing space. Today, I’m here to dust off an old Spotify playlist that’s as eclectic as our gallery walls. Here’s just 6 of my favourite songs that sing the saga of my time at NAC, each track a backstage pass to some unforgettable nights. Grab your headphones, and let’s stroll down this not-so-conventional memory lane.

1. Harp and a Monkey – Katy and the Twinkly Band
This folk ensemble left an indelible mark with their performance at NAC, a night filled with tales and melodies. The song “Katy and the Twinkly Band” is especially memorable for its heart-warming backstory about the lead singer’s daughter, which was shared live, adding a personal touch to an already intimate evening.

2. Blur – The Universal
Nothing could encapsulate the spirit of NAC like the night Blur performed. It was a pinnacle event that proved our small team’s capability to pull off big dreams. The echoes of “The Universal” bring me right back to the adrenaline and unity of that day. Every time I hear it,, I’m back there, feeling like a rock star by association and basking in the glory. I’m reminded of the strength and dedication it takes to bring live music to life, and the sheer joy it delivers to everyone involved.

3. Ryley Walker – Live Performance
Thinking back to Ryley Walker’s performance at NAC, there’s a moment that stands out sharply for me. Unlike the studio album, seeing him live was an entirely different experience—his presence and the audience’s engagement created a unique, unrepeatable atmosphere. But this memory is also tinged with sadness because that same night, we learned of the tragic bombing at the Manchester Arena. This painful news, coming as we ourselves were deeply engaged in the joy of live music, really hit home. It’s a stark reminder of how precious these moments are, and it’s a memory that personally connects me to those who were lost, people who were simply enjoying music just like we were.

4. Alex Ohm – Through the Storm
Alex Ohm might as well have been singing in our living room—that’s how intimate “Through the Storm” felt at NAC. This local hero had everyone so spellbound you could hear a pin drop. Or was it a tear? Either way, it was spine-tingling good.

5. Alabama Shakes – Hold On
“Hold On” by Alabama Shakes became the unofficial anthem for our behind-the-scenes hustle. The song would play as we, a tight-knit crew, worked through the night, setting the stage for the next day’s events. It’s a powerful reminder of how music not only entertains but also sustains us, giving strength during the most challenging times. This track stands as a tribute to the hard work that goes into making each live gig possible, highlighting the commitment of every team member to deliver memorable experiences for our audience. This song had us pushing through the darkest 12 hours—literally.

6. Nikki Lane – Jackpot
Hats off to Chris Brown for this one, my boss and the playlist master of my years at NAC. He brought Nikki Lane’s “Jackpot” into my daily routine, and it struck a chord. The drive to work became a 13-mile gig with Nikki’s voice as my co-pilot, pumping me up for the day’s challenges.

These 6 NAC playlist tracks have not only shaped my playlist but also underscored the significance of live gigs—they’re about the music, the people, and the unforgettable experiences that happen when the two collide. At NAC, each concert, each song, and each moment spent in the company of music lovers is a testament to the enduring power of live performances.