Dark Matter presents Lavinia Blackwall & Stilton plus Alex Rex

Prepare for an enchanting evening as Lavinia Blackwall, the celebrated former vocalist of the acclaimed psych-folk group Trembling Bells, returns to the stage in full force—this time with her brilliant backing band, Stilton, in support of her new solo album The Making (released May 30, 2025 via The Barne Society). Known for her spellbinding soprano and commanding presence, Lavinia's music blends folk, baroque pop, and psych-rock into lush, melodic arrangements that shimmer live.

Backed by Stilton—whose rich instrumentation and dynamic range bring her songs to life—Lavinia will perform material from the new record alongside favorites from her critically praised debut Muggington Lane End. Expect a deeply emotional and immersive experience from a voice once described as “the finest in British folk-rock” sourcesource. This is a rare opportunity to see one of the UK’s most compelling contemporary artists in full bloom, commanding the stage with grace, wit, and unshakable power.

Opening the night, is Alex Rex, the raw and riveting solo project of former Trembling Bells bandleader Alex Neilson, performing songs from his fourth and final album The National Trust (out now on The Barne Society). Written in the aftermath of his brother’s sudden passing, the album is a stark, poetic meditation on grief, love, and restoration—rooted in the haunting beauty of Carbeth, a Scottish cabin community. With help from longtime collaborators like Lavinia Blackwall, Rex delivers emotionally unflinching songs laced with dark wit, haunting melodies, and a rare sense of cathartic honesty.