Feature: Victoria Wai – A Look Back On 2022

So… how was your 2022?
Lots of learning new things outside of Music Photography with being the North East Venue Rep for Independent Venue Week then promoting my first ever gig as W(a)ired For Sound which maybe a one off as took me away from my camera too much!

What was your best moment?
1. Seeing Cumberland Arms close to capacity with many faces I did not know taking a chance on a new concept of a secret gig with W(a)ired For Sound.

And your worst moment?
The passing of Christine McVie. Fleetwood Mac’s Tango In The Night was my first major route into music. I knew I’d be sad but never knew how sad I’d be.

Who was your favourite band/artist this year?
Faye Fantarrow, Venus Grrrls and Kate Bond have had huge impact on me this year BUT in terms of new names to me huge shout to Ellur who played a blinder at Last Train Home, The Bug Club who I caught at Cumberland Arms, Deer Shed Festival and The Cluny and Swim School who I snuck out of a wedding party for and made it back for last 30mins on the dancefloor But I also got to give Sarah Johnsone a shout as at the BBC Intro Tees X IVW gig as she had two hours to polish a new sound as drummer sprained his wrist then 10:30pm the night before W(a)ired she stood in for another artist and pulled off two stunning sets 

Your favourite song of the year?
Violet State Of Mind – Venus Grrrls – there’s a tattoo on my left ankle to prove it now!

Recommended album?
Pit Pony – World To Me but also Christine McVie – Songbird

Favourite TV show of the year?
Guilty pleasure of Married At First Sight UK

Your favourite film?
Not much of a movie buff so not watched anything new but did see A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Northern Stage so can I take that in place of film?

Best book you read?
Haven’t read a new book in ages!!!

Favourite venue that you visited?
Lafayette in London, Fire Station and Pop Recs in Sunderland.

What was your favourite gig/show of the year?
The Wandering Hearts at Wylam Brewery and Photographing Faye Fantarrow at Mouth Of The Tyne with stage and backstage access – lovely early birthday present.

Any up-and-coming artists/acts we should keep an eye out for in 2023?
Very excited for the next chapters of Kate Bond, India Arkin and Sarah Johnsone

Any predictions for next year?
“It’s Faye Fantarrow’s world and we’re just living it!”