Gig Preview: Lycio + Naomi Dawes
The Victoria, Birmingham
Friday 25th September – 7:30 pm
A landmark night of electronic‑hybrid experimentation arrives at The Victoria on Friday, 25th September, as Lycio headline with a special two‑set show, joined by avant‑garde hip hop artist Naomi Dawes.
Fresh from their BBC Airwaves Festival appearance alongside Griff and Rag ’n’ Bone Man, Lycio return to Birmingham with an ambitious concept: two sets that chart both their past and their future.
The first dives into the trio’s existing catalogue, while the second unveils something truly rare: an entirely new, unreleased 10‑track album performed in full. Ten new songs for ten years, marking a decade of boundary‑pushing creativity.
Formed on the day of the UK referendum vote, Lycio have spent the years since building a reputation as one of the country’s most flawless and forward‑thinking live acts. Their independent rise has taken them to stages often out of reach for DIY artists, including Chris Evans’ CarFest, Alex James’ Big Feastival, The Great Escape and support slots with Rae Morris, YONAKA, Self Esteem and Low Island.
Lycio’s approach to music is deeply collaborative and proudly egalitarian. Vocalist and lyricist Genie Mendez, keyboardist Charlie Kellie and drummer Alex Lowe are all multi‑instrumentalists, performing entirely live without backing tracks.
Their songs often centre on Mendez’s reflections on mental health, while Kellie’s custom‑built software adds a unique, tactile dimension to their performances. After the live sets, Genny and the band are set to keep the night going with a DJ set until close.
Opening the show is Birmingham‑based Naomi Dawes, whose commanding vocals and avant‑garde hip hop production create a sound that’s both experimental and fiercely self‑contained. Writing, recording and producing her own work, Naomi’s live performances are known for their intensity, precision and magnetic stage presence.
A night of innovation, emotion and electronic‑driven artistry from two acts pushing their genres forward. For fans of music that feels bold, immersive and defiantly original, this show promises something unforgettable.
Advance tickets for this show are highly recommended and are available now.