For bands and artists, streaming is a necessary way to grow a following and build a fanbase, from announcements right up to release day, from presave to playlist. But as Spotify continues to make it harder for independent musicians, is it time to look to more supportive alternatives?

Dark, brooding, and cinematic, COAST NOIR have spent the best part of this year crafting their sound and image, equal parts industrial and haunting, aggressive and ethereal.

In 2024, Ticketmaster UK reported gross profits of just over £142 million. That same year, the Music Venue Trust reported that over 200 grassroots music venues were on the brink of permanent closure.