Have you heard about the weekly gig that’s going down a storm with music fans and attracting record company representatives?
It doesn’t take place in a venue in Manchester city centre, but at Bar Amp in Sale. Most of the bands who play on a Thursday night are unsigned and organisers Simon Williamson and Alex McCann say they always try to give priority to acts from the Greater Manchester area. But the event has also attracted artists from as far away as Belgium and the United States. Why has the event been so successful? “It’s a niche market and there’s nothing in the area like it. If you go to another pub or bar you often hear cover bands. These are original bands and you pay five or six quid in Manchester, and you can come to Bar Amp and get to see them for free,” says Alex.
At a recent gig, featuring a group called The Boy Majors, a representative from Colombia Records was in the audience, along Debs Wild, the person who discovered Coldplay. Alex says the area now known as Trafford has a distinguished musical past.
“What people forget is the Rolling Stones played in Altrincham 40 years ago and The Who also played there. The Stone Roses are from a mile down the road from the venue,” he adds.
In terms of bands to look out for, Simon and Alex say The Boy Majors and The Naughtys are ones to keep an eye on. The Thursday night gigs also attract music fans from across the age spectrum, all united by a mutual love of music.
* Any bands who are interested in playing at Club Designer Magazine@Bar Amp should contact the venue via myspace.com/baramp or via myspace.com/desinermagazine On May 3 Club Designer Magazine@ Bar Amp presents Token Jesture, Glyn Bailey, Laeka and Stormy Corner.
If bands get in touch, Simon or Alex can listen to their music online. Alternatively, groups can post CDs to Bar Amp, 102 School Rd, Sale, M33 7XB, or bring them in on the night. Gigs begin at around 8pm.
Source: http://www.thisischeshire.co.uk/
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