Darlington music festival returns to mark 30 years

The Rhythm & Tunes music festival, originally a free gathering for blues enthusiasts, has evolved over time.

Darlington Rock ‘n’ Blues Club began booking bands that started with Rhythm ‘n’ Blues and later developed their unique styles.

The event is organised by Darlington Borough Council in partnership with Darlington Rock n Blues Club and Gasto Promotions.

Performances were held at venues including The Forum Music Centre, Vesuvio, The Britannia and The Quaker House.

British bands from the 60s and 70s like The Animals, The Yardbirds, Chris Farlowe, and The Pretty Things have previously headlined the festival.

This year’s festival got underway on Friday evening (September 10), with performances from Emily & Stu, Kerrison Collective, The Mainline and Black Caddillac invenues across the town.

The festival’s main Market Square stage hosted tribute acts Blondied, Fu Fighters and Chilifornication on Saturday (September 12).

On Sunday (September 13), music fans enjoyed performances from The Boneshakers, The Addiction, John Verity Band and Band of Friends.

Food and alcohol stalls kept the music lovers refreshed throughout.

Check out the pictures below:

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

(Image: ANDY FUTERS)

Councillor Libby McCollom, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for local services, said the festival has grown significantly over the years.

She said: “One of our ambitions in the Council Plan is to create thriving places and connected communities and nothing brings people together more than music.

“I hope lots of people will come down and enjoy the wide variety of acts who are performing.”

Cllr McCollom also revealed the festival will undergo a revamp next year, with organisers planning a new musical theme designed to embrace an even wider range of music.