Radios, CDs, iPods – nothing is quite in the same league as a live gig when it comes to absorbing music.  The shared experience, the passion, the theatrics of energetic performers, the reaction from the crowds, even the sticky floors – live music can be a powerful form of expression.

These photographs, covering concerts and festivals such as the Camden Crawl and Great Escape were commissioned by EMI and Artrocker magazine. The images show artists in their element through the shadows, the lights and the folds of costumes as they convey their music and moods to a raptured audience.