Boudica Music Conference to take place at FOLD in London on 25th November

Founded in 2019 by Samantha Togni, Boudica is a multidisciplinary platform designed to spotlight and support female, trans+ and non-binary people in music. The Boudica Music Conference began in 2020, with previous editions being held at Freemasons’ Hall in London, and at the Museum of Modern Art Bologna (MAMbo).

This year, the conference will take place on 25th November at FOLD, an epicentre of the queer music scene in London. The line up includes Planningtorock, industry experts from Black Artist Database, Southbank Centre, FOLD, DJ Mag, Notting Hill Carnival, BMG, Pxssy Palace and many more.

The conference will take place across a full day and night. Panels will run throughout the day, including industry professionals such NIKS (B.A.D), Planningtorock, Nadine Noor (Pxssy Palace), Adem Holness (Southbank Centre), and Lasha Jorjoliani (FOLD Co-Founder), speaking on topics to support a brighter future in electronic music. Alongside the panels, there will also be a one-to-one Mentorship Hub and a DJ Workshop in collaboration with Pioneer DJ.

These day events will be followed by an after sunset party at FOLD with DJ sets from Blasha & Allatt, LYDO, Lovecat, Samantha Togni and Swan Meat.

Day tickets are available here. Night tickets are available here.

Read below for more information on the full programme of the day-time panel events.

PANEL 1 – BUILDING A SUPPORTIVE WORLD WITHIN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR TRANS+, NON-BINARY AND FEMALE-IDENTIFYING INDIVIDUALS

Host: Vanessa Maria
Panelists: Jaye Ward (DJ), June Lam, Max Blue Churchill (The TCC), Nadine Noor (Pxssy Palace)

In The Jaguar Foundation’s groundbreaking report on gender representation in UK dance music, it was unsurprisingly discovered that gender disparity within the music industry is a persistent issue. Minoritised genders are repeatedly othered, excluded and discriminated against. While there is progress being made, the music industry still has a long way to go in achieving a more equitable representation and treatment of female, trans+ and non-binary individuals. In this panel, the speakers will explore the varied means by which we can build a supportive world within the music industry despite its current ecosystem.

PANEL 2 – BREAKING BARRIERS AND AMPLIFYING EACH OTHER’S VOICES: THE POWER OF COMMUNITY

Host: Steven Braines (He.She.They)
Panelists: Mandidextrous (Speed Bass/ Amen4Teko/ TNT Sound System), Lasha Jorjoliani (FOLD Co-Founder), Linett Kamala (Notting Hill Carnival / Lin Kam Art), NIKS (Black Artist Database)

In recent years, the electronic music landscape has undergone significant changes, driven in part by the widespread adoption of electronic music by Gen Z through platforms like TikTok. This transformation has piqued corporate interest and investment in the industry, leading to a reshaping of its dynamics.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to emphasise the enduring vitality of grassroots and DIY nightlife communities. These spaces have long played a vital role in amplifying the voices of marginalised individuals, demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability.

In this panel, the panelists unite to celebrate the strength of community-driven initiatives and explore innovative strategies to address the challenges brought about by corporate involvement. The speakers will offer insights on dismantling barriers, mutually amplifying voices, and preserving the spirit of our communities.

PANEL 3 – AMPLIFYING TRANS+ VOICES IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

Host: Āliyah Husna / THEMPRESS (Good Night Out/Riposte)
Panellists: I. JORDAN, Planningtorock, Teecra (FOLD)

In light of current circumstances and the increasingly heightened challenges faced by Trans+ individuals within the music industry, we’re announcing an emergency Trans+ panel. This initiative is a direct response to the urgent issues and adversity Trans+ people are enduring in the current climate. It’s crucial that we shine a spotlight on these concerns and engage in meaningful discussions within the music industry.

Trans+ individuals are encountering a troubling surge in hate crimes, physical assaults, and political and media scapegoating. This alarming trend demands our immediate attention and action. Music, as a potent cultural force, cannot remain indifferent to the struggles faced by its own community members.

Our panel is steadfast in providing a platform where these critical issues can be openly and constructively discussed by Trans+ people. We are committed to fostering a nurturing environment that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Trans+ individuals and are actively seeking solutions that can be acted on.

Now more than ever it’s essential for people to become adept at addressing transphobia head-on. Equipping individuals with the language and tools to engage in these conversations is pivotal for driving change, promoting inclusivity, and firmly standing against discrimination.

By addressing these concerns within the context of music, we aim to amplify the voices of Trans+ individuals and inspire positive transformation in the industry. We invite everyone to participate in this vital conversation and collective effort to establish a safer and more inclusive music community for all.

PANEL 4 – LGBTQIA+ REPRESENTATION IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY: CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS

Host: TBC
Panelists: Manuka Honey (SUZIO / Woo), Rhona Ezuma (THIIIRD Magazine), Saskhia Menendez (UME/ Artist Manager/ MMF Member/ Keychange), Steven Braines (he.she.they)

Across history, the LGBTQIA+ community has always altered the music’s trajectory for the better, pioneering new sounds, genres and essential cultural movements that pave the way for positive change. Yet simultaneously, trailblazing LGBTQIA+ music industry professionals have been sidelined, as mainstream society capitalises on certain elements of the LGBTQIA+ aesthetic while disregarding aspects they consider too unconventional or politically charged. This panel will examine the multitude of experiences faced by LGBTQIA+ people working within the music industry, exploring the difficulties, successes and means by which we can make music a safer, representational and inclusive space for all identities.

PANEL 5 – WORKING TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
CO-HOSTED BY MUSICIANS’ UNION

Host: John Shortell (Musicians’ Union)
Panelists: Adem Holness (Head Of Contermporary Music Southbank), Emma Wiggin (Westwick Management), Farah Syed Farah Syed (Director, Communications, amp Sound Branding / Co-Chair AFEM), Marcus Barnes (Happy Tuesdays/ The Guardian)

In recent years, the music industry has frequently highlighted the importance of ‘safe spaces,’ ‘inclusivity,’ and ‘diversity.’ However, there is often a disconnect between these ideals and their actual implementation by organisations, brands, and promoters. All too often, these concepts are used as empty buzzwords, lacking real substance and accountability, especially for marginalised communities.

In this panel, the speakers will engage in a thoughtful discussion on how we can foster welcoming workplaces, nightlife settings, and opportunities, even in the presence of systemic challenges and oppression. The aim is to explore practical ways to create genuinely supportive and accessible environments for everyone.

 

Boudica Music Conference is supported by Arts Council England, Downtown Music, Musicians’ Union, Pioneer DJ and Resident Advisor

Follow Boudica on Instagram, Facebook and bandcamp

Kate CrudgingtonLeave a comment

LISTEN: HAVVK – ‘City Creep’

One of the first ever guests on our radio show, and the first headliner of a GIHE live night, Ireland based trio HAVVK have been wowing us over the years with their distinctive-yet-eclectic array of spellbinding-yet-gritty soundscapes. With activism at the heart of all they create, they’ve received acclaim from the likes of The Guardian and BBC 6Music for previous releases, and have now shared a brand new single.

A reflection on the impact that Dublin’s housing crisis is having on cultural spaces in the city, ‘City Creep‘ is propelled by a fierce energy as celestial vocals and scuzzy hooks seethe with an unrelenting sense of urgency. Showcasing their ability to exquisitely create a shimmering immersive grace whilst emanating a raw, politically-charged rage, HAVVK express their concern at the disconnect between decision makers and affected communities with their trademark swirling splendour.

‘City Creep’ is out now via Veta Records. And we have a feeling you may be hearing / seeing more from HAVVK very soon… Keep your eyes peeled for a London date coming up in 2024!

Mari Lane
@marimindles

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Five Favourites: Erica Nockalls

Having collaborated with renowned bands such as Echo and the Bunnymen and The Proclaimers, and performed at legendary venues such as The Royal Albert Hall, musician and songwriter Erica Nockalls released her innovative album Dark Music From A Warm Place back in 2021, a partnership with Parisian studio producer/artist Jean-Charles Versari. Oozing a dark ethereal splendour throughout, and showcasing Nockalls’ soaring crystalline vocals, it’s a beautifully cinematic collection, brooding with a shimmering grace and immersive musicality. And, more recently, to celebrate her September tour dates with Echo and the Bunnymen, Nockalls shared her own unique rendition of Roxy Music’s ‘In Every Dream Home A Heartache’.

We think one of the best ways to get to know an artist is by asking what music inspires them. So, to celebrate the release of ‘In Every Dream Home A Heartache’, we caught up with Erica to ask about the music that has inspired her the most. Read about her five favourite songs and watch the video for her cover of ‘In Every Dream Home A Heartache’ below!

Imogen Heap – ‘Hide and Seek’
I discovered and listened to the shit out of this track in lockdown, somewhere in between sneaking to the studio to mix my own album Dark Music From A Warm Place under the cover of nightfall, and gleefully drinking cocktails for breakfast. Imogen has penned a masterpiece here, and I would very much love to work with her one day because of this song. Her still, honest vocals, layered, creating a vast and chillingly brutal landscape of desperation, sorrow and loss. Lyrics lines effected, ebb in and out, (“Spin me round” has a Leslie effect on it, for example, which I consider to be a production stroke of genius). I enjoy hearing the stacked close harmonies and complex cluster chords, probably (definitely) because I do the same. Such a brave stance to take these days – solely using vocals as your musical ingredients, climaxing into her accompanying herself rhythmically and harmonically without any additional instrumentation. I even believe you can hear a chink of glass bottles been taken out for recycling at one point, which made me think that this evolved from a home recording (or maybe even remnants of a demo) that was lovingly coaxed and manipulated into a thing of utter beauty, but maybe I’m reading too much into it. Best line of the song? “Crop circles in the carpet”… alluding to, in my mind, imagery of recently moved large furniture, because someone just left with their possessions. Heartbreaking, and exceptional. 

Versari – ‘Brûle’
I had the honour of hearing the whole Sous la peau album by Versari, new and fresh from mastering, one warm (and admittedly decadent) evening, on the balcony of a Parisian hotel. I was instantly impressed. I was charmed by how one three piece can deliver such a thorough obliteration both sonically and viscerally; their sound took my breath away. Sung in French – at the time I didn’t understand the lyrics, but I almost didn’t need to – Jean-Charles’s vocal style is low, distinctive, seductive, and effortlessly and tastefully distressed. Now, even though I understand the lyrical content, I still feel the same when I hear this song, which led me to release a remix of it.

Devin Townsend Project – ‘Failure’
I paint a lot to the Transcendence album. I use it as a temporal yard stick – once the record has finished, it’s time to stop painting. Complex, agressive, powerful. A truth behind the personal complexities of performing. Most of us feel like a failure at times. Devin’s honest admissions here gave me the strength to consider continuing what I was doing, even if it scares the absolute shit out of you. I particularly like the drum work here delivered in this track by the epic force that is Ryan Van Poederooyen. His style is watertight yet dynamic, with a playful musicianship not often found in the metal world. Bravo.

Immaculate Fools – ‘Two to Tango’
Raymond is a special human to me. Half godfather-type-figure, half cool uncle, half mentor… (I’ve always been excellent at maths). I was in a testy place just before I moved to Spain to write my third album, ‘Dark Music From A Warm Place’ and, prior to getting my own place, I lived a short while with Ray. He would play guitar in his music room late into the night, and I would fall asleep in the next room listening to him, which was a much needed comfort to me. This track was one of the songs he was working on at the time, which in my humble (and correct) opinion is one of the greatest songs ever to have been written. It’s genius. I often think Ray’s music is a little like Bowie’s, in that they both have the ability to make music sound simple, and palatable, when it’s anything but.

Roxy Music – ‘In Every Dream Home A Heartache’ 
I remember my Mum driving me to youth orchestra rehearsals on many a friday night in her lovely old Saab. We’d sing along to the tape of For Your Pleasure, both laughing at our occasionally misheard lyrics. ‘Dream Home’ stood out to my juvenile brain. The emotional temperature of the lonesome lyrics spoke to me. Despite sounding so serious, Mum told me it was about a blow-up doll, and… on paper, that does sound like a joke, right? I was happily perplexed. And I liked the album artwork. I loved this song so much. Electing to cover and release it recently was one of my better ideas!

Massive thanks to Erica for sharing her Five Favourites with us! Watch the stirring video for her rendition of Roxy Music’s ‘In Every Dream Home A Heartache’ below:

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Five Favourites: Atka

Having just released her debut EP, The Eye Against The Ashen Sky, London-based, Brandenburg-born artist Atka creates captivating cinematic soundscapes. Drawing on her studies into philosophy, intertwined with personal reflections on shame and paranoia, the EP shimmers with a dark, haunting energy throughout. A truly stirring collection showcasing the beguiling majesty of this innovative artist.

We think one of the best ways to get to know a band is by asking what music inspires them. So, to celebrate the release of The Eye Against The Ashen Sky, we caught up with Atka to ask about the music that has inspired her the most. Read about her five favourite albums and watch the video for latest single ‘Eye In The Sky’ below!

Joy Division – Unknown Pleasures 
I’m gonna be honest, it was H&M who introduced me to Unknown Pleasures. I must have been fourteen or fifteen when they started printing the album logo on t-shirts everywhere in Germany. At the time, I was very into metal and hardcore, particularly System Of A Down. That was what was big in Germany, and classic rock of course. I hadn’t come across a lot of British music until then, particularly British post-punk. It took me a few attempts to listen to it and get what the whole genre is about, but once I understood it, it completely changed how I listened to and made music. I felt as if, for the first time, I gave myself permission to let myself be taken somewhere by music instead of stubbornly steering the ship to make something “good”, nails digging into the wheel and all.

Kraftwerk – Kraftwerk 1 
Growing up in Germany obviously the name “Kraftwerk” has been floating around my orbit for as long as I can remember, though not as frequently as one might think. However, it was only a few years ago that I made an effort digging through the Kraftwerkian back catalogue and that’s when I discovered their first album, Kraftwerk 1. I remember sitting on the couch listening to it and my eyes just widening and jaw dropping further with every passing minute. I couldn’t believe it. They were constructing this electronic feeling music with orchestral instruments, flutes and all. This was exactly what I was trying to do with my record but reversed. I instead took electronic signals and gave them an organic, wood-like, orchestral touch – like in ‘Child of Rage’ – wanting to create a middle ground between the artificial and the organic.

Broadcast – Tender Buttons 
I started listening to Broadcast about three years ago and got addicted to their whole catalogue. Each album is so very different, but Tender Buttons is definitely my favourite. Trish’s vocals are magically swaying over the beautifully organic, rough and sometimes distorted instrumentals, giving it the perfect balance – tender is really the perfect word for it. And the lyrics are straight up brilliant, I mean: “awkwardness happening to someone you love”. I aspire to one day make something that is only half as good as what they did. They are probably my biggest inspiration. And I think that their influence on me will become only more evident as I put more music out. I am still digesting, if you know what I mean.

Perfume Genius – No Shape 
This is a truly spectral piece of work, in terms of production and experiments in song structure. I don’t know how they achieved half of the sounds on this record – hats off to Blake Mills, what a brilliant producer! Perfume Genius’ music has inspired me to just do whatever the heck I want – out of the window with standard song structure. Do I really want to have the drums to come in at only 1.30min? Definitely! Do I really need one minute of instrumental tail at the end of every other track? Yes I do. Does a song need a goddamn pay-off at some point? Hell no.

LCD Soundsystem – This is Happening 
LCD Soundsystem to me is pure ecstasy. Every time I listen to this record I hear something new and I draw a lot of inspiration for instrumentation and what kind of backdrop suits which kind of song. I heard ‘Dance Yourself Clean’ for the first time when I was twenty one driving on a road trip through Scandinavia with my family, in a VW Transporter that I’d converted. I was driving for three weeks from Berlin to Aarhus, Gothenburg, up to Bergen and all the way back – it was a hell of a drive, jamming out to this record. I saw them live at Brixton Academy and they were phenomenal – it was just one big party!

Huge thanks to Atka for sharing her five favourites with us!

The Eye Of The Ashen Storm is out now. Catch her live tonight in London at Studio 9294 supporting Lucrecia Dalt.

mariangelicalaneLeave a comment