Rhian Morgans

Birmingham is home to some of the most creative and talented emerging artists on the music scene. So whether you’re into grime, jazz, dance music, turbo folk or whatever else, this city has something for you. However, with so many amazing local artists about to hit the big time, it's tough to keep up. So, here are some of the best breakthrough musicians in Birmingham today we recommend you don't miss:   Call Me Unique R.J.Baddeley | www.baddeley.be   Singer-songwriter and Handsworth lass with a hell of a lot of talent, Call me Unique (she’ll never tell you her real name) is much more than the treble clef tattooed on her cheek.   Visit her SoundCloud or check out her Facebook page for upcoming gigs if you’re into rich sounds that navigate blissfully through soul, jazz, jazz-scat and rap, combined with thought-provoking lyrics and subtle guitar arrangements. If you’re particularly lucky, you might catch her doing an impromptu performance in and around the city.   Johnny Kowalski and the Sexy Weirdos    <img class="photo lazy inline" src="http://media.timeout.com/images/102963853/image.jpg" image_id="102963853" loaded="81957" total="81957" type="image/jpeg" data-width-class="" data-credit="" data-caption="" id="141d7d9d-1782-08ba-b84a-bb4e2769dd10">   They’re sexy, they’re weird, and they’re the go-to festival band for Midlands-based madness. If you’re a proud Brummie music-lover and haven’t heard of these guys, then you’ve been missing out. Johnny Kowalski and

No longer will a festive outing in town be limited to a smash and grab sausage from the German market, eaten while weaving deftly like a ninja between thousands of people, and countless stalls selling near identical objects. There’s a new boy in town and it’s all about culture and good vibes: FESTIV_ALT – a festive pop up market that celebrates the skills of young creatives.The creation of somewhereto, a UK-wide project that connects people aged 16 to 25 with empty or underused spaces, FESTIV_ALT will be taking place in the usually unloved Square Shopping Centre (home of the Oasis market) in Birmingham city centre.For one day only, on Saturday December 5, FESTIV_ALT presents performances by homegrown talent from across the local music scene, as well as workshops, outdoor performances, art installations, interactive activities, food and more.Expect great things – such as artist Tina Wells, who is set to wow with an immersive multi-sensory art installation that captures the very essence of winter. FESTIV_ALT is doing what Brummies do best, challenging the status quo in a curious and creative way. Head down if you're looking for an alternative to the standard winter fayre.   The Square shopping centre   FESTIV_ALT. Saturday December 5, midday-5pm. The Square shopping centre, 5 Priory Square, Birmingham, B4 7LJ. Find more information here, or if you're performer aged 16-25 and want to get involved, email yinka@somewhereto.org.   For another alternative Christmas market, read mo