Welsh rock legends Stereophonics brought their 2025 tour ‘The Sky’s Edge’ to Sheffield, delivering a night filled with nostalgia, stadium-sized energy and timeless anthems.
Following a hugely successful summer of outdoor shows, the band arrived at the Utilita Arena armed with hits from across their 30-year career.
Despite being three decades in, they remain impressively current, still releasing bangers that resonate with old fans and new.
Their 13th studio album, Make ’Em Laugh, Make ’Em Cry, Make ’Em Wait, debuted at the top spot earlier this year, marking their ninth official number one album - a feat that few guitar bands can claim in today’s landscape.
One of the most striking aspects of the night was the diversity in the crowd.
Generations stood side by side, families and fans of all ages united by the voice of Kelly Jones, whose raw, unmistakable tone remains as powerful as ever. Every song felt like a shared memory.
The setlist was stacked with classics: 'Bartender and the Thief', 'Just Looking', and 'Local Boy in the Photograph' hit just as hard as they did in the late ’90s.
The band’s musical tightness and stage presence ensured that these tracks didn’t just spark nostalgia; they felt alive, urgent and fresh.
And then came 'Dakota'. Hearing it live remains one of rock’s greatest live experiences, and Sheffield agreed.
As soon as the opening riff hit, the entire arena erupted into a mass sing-along.
The finale delivered bursts of colour, giant balloons cascading from above and a spectacle that perfectly matched the emotion of the song.
More than a closer, 'Dakota' became a reminder of personal memories - where you were, who you were with, and the first time you heard it.
Stereophonics weren’t just ticking off yet another big gig, they were cementing a legacy with a set that balanced reflection, celebration and pure rock energy. Once again, they proved why they matter so much to so many.
Even after all this time, their sound still hits hard, their storytelling still resonates, and their connection with fans remains undeniable. Long live the 'Phonics.
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Art & Culture
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail, the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Declan Kelly -
8th December 2025 
