YH MATES: 10 epic music photos with Steve Dallimore

Steve Dallimore (left) is the founder of Behind The Gallery

While we love going to gigs, there’s nothing more disappointing than trying to relive the experience through the terribly-shot photos doomed to sit dormant in the archives of the greasy-lensed phones used to capture them. Fact is, we’d prefer to admire the work of the folks who know what they’re doing - the music photographers.

We’ve been fortunate to meet plenty of talented lens wranglers on our travels and we’re constantly inspired by their ability to capture something as sensory as live music. Someone else who not only shares our love for music photographers, but provides a platform for them to showcase their work is our mate Steve Dallimore.

Steve is the Founder and Creative Director of ‘Behind The Gallery’; an innovative online gallery that showcases a new era of music and pop culture photography. Giving more people access to the work of both seasoned and up-and-coming photographers, Steve also curates unique pop-up gallery experiences across the country where among epic artwork, you’ll find us serving up cold YH tins.

A man who has probably seen more music shots than we’ve had Newtowners, we hit up Steve to whip us in to his 10 favourite photos of all time. See below.

Amy Winehouse by Charles Moriarty

Steve says: This photo has stuck with me more than any other that Charles took of Amy. It was shot in in a hotel room in NY on a rainy evening. There is a warmth to it and you feel like you’re in the room at the time of the conversation. It was taken before Frank had come out and you see this young, extremely talented lady smiling, about to start her journey towards stardom. Sadly, we know how the story ends and I feel that it has a haunting hold on you afterwards

Nirvana by Chris Cuffaro

Steve says: I’ve been drawn to this live shot of Kurt Cobain taken in 91 recently. To me, it feels quintessentially Kurt. The old jumper, the hair over the face whilst singing, just as everything was exploding for the band in global exposure.

The Strokes by Cody Smyth

Steve says: Cody grew up with the band since high school and remains friends today with them all. This is one of a series of three taken on 8th Avenue before they all drove to Philly to a gig. I like candid shots and love how each person is doing something slightly different. Note Nick looking directly at Cody, Fab with his hands and Julian, being well Julian.

The Mighty Boosh by Dave (Bollo) Brown

Steve says: The Mighty Boosh to me is music, art and comedy combined and in that whimsical world, where anything is allowed and so I’ve chosen this one, taken by Dave Brown in Manchester backstage. I have this and absolute love it. The colour, the stances, it just really pops.

Nine Inch Nails by Joseph Cultice

Steve says: I’ve included this one by Joseph as I feel it’s a modern iconic shot. It was taken at Woodstock ‘94 and that festival is better known for this image than anything else that happened that year. This is the moment that industrial music crossed over into the mainstream. Trent is covered in the mud and the detail is amazing. One shot that captures so much, and is just easy to stand in front of and look at for a while.

DMX by Jonathan Mannion

Steve says: Not sure if this was taken unknowingly, but I love how it feels like a private moment of calm and reflection for DMX, whilst still showing his strength. Such a great shot.

Nine Inch Nails by Jonathan Rach

Steve says: This image is what put me in contact with Jonathan. We recently worked together to showcase never seen before Nine Inch Nails photography for a special exhibition to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Downward Spiral. When I see this image, it captures everything that Nine Inch Nails was on that tour; the chaos, raw energy, destruction. This was shot on film, which to me, makes it even more remarkable. You can see the keys flying off the keyboard!

Metallica by Ross Halfin

Steve says: I think this shot really captures a connection between the band and their audience, almost to the point where they’re drawing him into them. Great sunset in the background too!

6. Oasis by Scarlet Page

Steve says: I’m not a massive fan of Oasis, but I feel this shot captures everything I associate with them. Attitude, swagger, self confidence, Liam looks like a model. Scarlet perfectly captures them at their peak in this picture.

Tupac by Mike Miller

Steve says: With his piercings, charisma and style, Tupac is one of the most recognisable artists in music history. I love this shot as it portrays all of this but without showing his face, you know it’s Tupac. I love how the detail of his hand is also in perfect focus too.

Behind the Gallery is currently showing the Nine Inch Nails Collection featuring the works of Jonathan Rach. All prints are available to view and purchase online at behindthegallery.com.au. Follow @behindthegallery on Insta for updates on what’s coming up next.