Local poet/spoken word artiste Lily Blacksell’s delivery is as delicate as it is cutting. Hitting the mark, beat and point in one fell swoop she defies expectation and shatters preconceptions with her heart-breaking vulnerable, yet fearlessly sharp focus. Currently studying at Columbia, New York, lovers of poetry, spoken word and storytelling will not want to miss this very special edition of the monthly Howl event which aims to provide a place for the best spoken word artists in Birmingham to speak freely, without restraint. Lily Blacksell is joined by Aliyah Hasinah, another brilliant poet currently making waves in the UK spoken word scene with her political and personal poetry and Shaun Walsh, poetic rock star and member of ‘Birmingham’s most hated band’. Open mic slots also available.

Wed 12 July, 145 Alcester Rd, Birmingham B13. Tel: 0121 449 6300. £3 Entry, 7.30pm – 11pm www.facebook.com