Sinews' Music Video Spotlights Decline of Grassroots Venues in UK

An Oxford-based rock band, Sinews, has released a poignant music video for their new single "I Disappear," which underscores the alarming decline of grassroots music venues across the United Kingdom. In a compelling narrative, the video features a series of reflections from fellow musicians regarding the grassroots spaces they mourn, illustrating the profound impact of venue closures on local music culture.

The band's lead singer and guitarist, Rich Bell, characterized the situation as an "epidemic" that is "laying waste to our cultural landscape." He emphasized that while many of these venues have closed, the memories they created persist vividly among artists and audiences alike. This sentiment resonates deeply within Oxford, a city historically known for nurturing notable bands such as Radiohead and Foals, which has witnessed the closure of several cherished venues, including The Cellar and The Wheatsheaf.

According to the Music Venue Trust's latest annual report, the number of live music venues in the UK has decreased from 835 to 810 in 2024, marking a significant improvement over the previous year, which saw 125 closures. Yet, 43.8% of these venues reported financial losses, illuminating the ongoing struggles within the live music sector. "The song's about feeling invisible, and overlooked, and trying to say I’m here, I exist, I take up physical space," said Bell, highlighting the emotional weight tied to these lost venues.

The video features several emerging acts including The None, Objections, Dancer, and Ritual Error, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit among local musicians. Proceeds from the single are directed toward YWMP, a music educational charity that is in the process of establishing a new venue on Little Clarendon Street, a hopeful sign amidst the backdrop of closures. Bell expressed optimism about supporting new spaces for creativity, stating, "It feels good that in a small way this will be helping create new space."

Sinews, who released their debut EP "Reanimated" last year, followed by their second EP "Choreography" in February 2023, have been recognized for their unique sound that merges complexity with intensity. Nightshift music magazine has remarked on their ability to find "the sweet spot between thoughtful intricacy and musical violence." They are scheduled to perform a headline show at The Library in Oxford to celebrate the single's release.

The plight of live music venues is a concern echoed by many in the industry. For instance, Dr. Laura Smith, a cultural economist at the University of Manchester, asserts that grassroots venues are vital to the music ecosystem, providing not only a platform for emerging artists but also contributing significantly to local economies. In her 2023 study published in the Journal of Cultural Economics, she found that local music venues generate approximately £1.4 billion in revenue annually, underlining their importance to both cultural and economic landscapes.

The decline of these venues has sparked debates about the need for stronger governmental support and policies to protect cultural spaces. The UK government has introduced several initiatives aimed at reviving the live music sector, including grants and funding for venue renovations. However, industry leaders like Mark Davyd, CEO of the Music Venue Trust, urge that more must be done to ensure the survival of these spaces that serve as the lifeblood of the music community.

As the music industry continues to navigate the challenges posed by closures, the actions of bands like Sinews serve as a reminder of the cultural significance of grassroots venues. These spaces are not merely physical locations; they are integral to the identity and continuity of local music scenes. The ongoing fight to preserve and create new venues is not just about music; it is about community, history, and the shared experiences that shape our cultural landscape.

Looking ahead, the future of grassroots venues remains uncertain. However, the resilience shown by artists and advocates offers hope that through collective efforts, these spaces can be revitalized and continue to foster the next generation of musicians. The story of Sinews and their endeavor to highlight this pressing issue reflects a broader narrative about the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of adversity.