The Tune Up takeover returned on Friday 18th September, with young volunteers hosting a sold-out gig at The Smokehouse to celebrate the venue's 10th anniversary. Instead of a predictable single-genre show, three distinct bands shared the stage, offering a broad spectrum of musical styles. With Yarrow bringing hook-driven rock, Milvain performing alt-folk, and Doll Face delivering raw Midwest emo, the audience was exposed to diverse musical discoveries and inspired to find new tastes.

This deliberate genre-blending captures the essence of The Smokehouse itself. Rather than confining itself to one musical style, the venue thrives on an amalgamation of sounds, creating an inclusive space where young talent is inspired, creativity is nurtured, and a genuine community is built. The Smokehouse has that charm. It's a small venue—and to elaborate, it's very small—yet it brings a massive crowd of young people together. Although it only opened in 2016, the space captures a distinct 2000s–2010s energy. For anyone familiar with the aesthetic, it feels as though you have stepped directly into the world of Scott Pilgrim. It captures a nostalgic memory of a time you didn't live in. Or if you did, it evokes that memory of a past time. Ultimately, The Smokehouse showcases the idea of close communities and human connection during an era of digital disconnection.

Speaking to some of the volunteers who worked together to promote and host the event, they shared how they have built a long-term community while developing vital skills for future careers in music and live performance. This comes at a crucial time. According to a report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) released on September 1st, 2026, 16-to-24-year-olds are now considered the loneliest generation. The report states that young people "no longer feel they have the support they need to realise their big ambitions" and face "a lack of spaces to build in-person connections.

But The Smokehouse and Tune Up have become exactly that missing space for young individuals seeking connection, experience, and like-minded peers. It is a refreshing outlook on community-building, offering emerging spaces for young people to make friends, find a sense of belonging, and learn a trade. There is a community being built here in Suffolk for aspiring artists, gig-goers, and those looking to connect, and it’s a small yet vital step in helping young people navigate the complexities of their adolescence.

The Tune Up takeover was an exciting event to attend. Seeing such a lively, all-ages crowd was fantastic, and watching the bands perform made it a fun night out in Ipswich. But the real highlight was watching the young TuneUp volunteers work together to put on a full gig. In a world that often feels like an uphill battle against the 'Evil Exes' of isolation and career uncertainty—if you'll pardon the Scott Pilgrim reference—places like this give young creatives the ultimate power-up.

Written by Elena Harris

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