Photo Credit: Victoria Wai
On a bright and sunny Saturday in the heart of Middleborough’s University campus, the twelfth annual edition of Twisterella Festival is underway.
The first artist we are lucky enough to encounter on the Terrace Stage is sunday club. Having recently released their second self titled album they are playing to what is now a bustling students union bar. The dream-pop duo impart their catchy and angelic acoustic ballads on a youthful crowd at Twisterella. Instantly recognisable by her bright red locks lead vocalist Courtney Carmichael enthusiastically jumps around the cramped stage, much to the audience’s delight here at the Terrace Stage. An enthusiastic and engaging performance from sunday club here at Twisterella. 5/10
Adjusting quickly to the layout of Twisterella, we found ourselves in the calming company of Toira Woof. Adorned with just an acoustic guitar and some incredible vocal pipes, the room is silent. A contrast from minutes earlier while experiencing sunday club. Her delicate tone invites people to fix their gaze and appreciate the obvious talent on display. The singer-songwriter hailing from Bolton confesses she is a fan of a ghost story and has in fact written her own, which the audience is treated to in the form of a delicate acoustic ballad, once again showcasing her impressive vocal talent. An impressive performance and one that will win Toira Woof a stronger fan base. 7/10
Remaining at the Lounge Stage, Gia Ford is the next act we encounter. Having already received notable mentions from Elton John, it is clear why she has received such acclaim over recent years. Ford plays a blend of atmospheric pop, with her vocals weaving between strummed melodies. Throughout the performance harmonies between fellow guitarist and Ford echo around the compact space. During the performance at Twisterella, Ford advertises her future events to the audience. A talented vocal display by Gina Ford at Twisterella Festival this year, we’re sure many fans here today will be interested to see her songs without the melodic stripped back nature. 8/10
Leaving the confines of the Students Union and heading to ROAB Buffs Club a short walk away, we stumbled upon Two Man Lift. As we entered the compact venue Two Man Lift were already hurtling through their set, the electronic sounds filling the entire room. Two Man Lift continue to engage the audience with their hard-hitting electronic rhythms. As the set comes to a close and the lights come up, it becomes clear the band have already sold a plethora of ‘Caution Two Man Lift Stickers’ that people are displaying all over various clothing items. An exciting performance with heavy influence towards 80s electronica. 8/10
Remaining ROAB Buffs Club, the wait begins for Bikini Body. The Scottish punk band talk of influences such as Viagra Boys and Liquid Liquid – by all accounts this should be a loud and aggressive performance. The room begins to fill as the performance continues. Observing around the room, not a single person’s foot isn’t tapping. The tunes are fast, furious and aggressive from the start. Minus the small stoppage due to a broken guitar string the band continue to ooze energy throughout the evening’s performance. A vibrant and energetic performance by Bikini Body at Twisterella Festival. 7/10
Twisterella Festival continues to delight audiences with a wide range of new music across all genres. Having recently witnessed the punk-inspired performance from Bikini Body the genre shifts yet again to indie rockers The Rooks. The Glaswegian band are building a reputation for their energetic live shows and anthemic sound. The Glaswegian outfit have recently recorded albums with award-winning producers who have worked with the likes of the Dandy Warhols and Stereophonics. Drawing influences spanning broadly across the rock spectrum, from Kings of Leon to The Rolling Stones, the live show is bound to be eclectic.
As the performance progresses the influence of early Brit Pop is clearly visible, as is a heavy lean towards Welsh rockers Stereophonics, especially noted in vocal style. Energy remains high throughout the performance as The Rooks continue to deliver high octane indie anthemic pop.
Nonetheless, if there is any criticism, the sound tends to lean on influences too heavily. The Rooks are individually talented musicians within their own right and could make a truly unique sound without the need for leaning so heavily on influences of the past. A solid performance which the audience relished. 8/10
As an exceptional day of music comes to a close, Mouth Ulcers have the pleasure of headlining The Terrace Bar stage at this year’s Twisterella Festival. Having only formed in 2025, Mouth Ulcers are almost complete newcomers to the industry. Nonetheless, they are building traction with their blend gothic alternative rock, so much so they are positioned to close Twisterella Festival 2026.
The deep almost inaudible vocals at times, coupled with the tribal-like drums and driving bass lines make for an almost playful performance. This is evident in the audience reaction, with the majority by now moving to the music. Without doubt strong influences are clear from The Cure and Robert Smith specifically, as well as Joy Decision. Nonetheless, the music has a melodic and funky edge at times, which is possibly why the band have gained such rapid popularity over a short space of time. The performance this evening has been worthy of topping the bill at Twisterella 2026 and bringing a fantastic festival to a fitting close. 9/10
Twisterella 2026 has once again been a huge success in championing some of the best up and coming talent from around the UK. An important festival that gives new talents the leverage they need to succeed in an ever-changing music industry.
Written by: Ben Gilligan
