In October last year I was fortunate enough to witness four of the region's greatest acts at an event organised by A1(M) Records (see here). I had previewed the showcase for the Salford Star and went along primarily to catch Little Hulton wordsmith JB Barrington, but was also curious about the rest of the bill. I wasn't disappointed.
Four diverse acts played unforgettable sets to a totally packed-out Band on the Wall. The night was called Music from the North, and a live EP of the same name was recorded on the night. After being mixed, produced and mastered by award-winning producer Dave Tolan at Hope Mill Studio, Music from the North has now been released on iTunes and limited edition CD.
The EP had its exclusive on-air debut this week, during a special episode of Steve Doyle's (SD) Sonic Diary on 94.4FM Salford City Radio. And A1(M) Records has donated one hundred of the CDs to Salford City Radio, with proceeds from their sale going to help to raise funds for the station that has done so much for local community indie music. You might want to snap one up quickly; it's a limited edition with only three hundred pressed.
The nine-track EP features poetry from the brilliantly funny JB Barrington and powerful, well-crafted tunes from The Nouvelles. Add to that The Backhanders with their Strummer-esque spirit and the evening's headline act The Moods, who brought the house down with a unique fusion of electro hip hop, brass and reggae.
The Music from the North EP is accompanied by stunning live videos recorded that night at the iconic Band on the Wall. This footage captures not only the energy and passion of the musicians, but also from the crowd. It provides a vital insight into the area's most exciting new talents.
The Moods have just signed an artist development deal with A1(M) Records and two of the band's tracks have been selected for the soundtrack of the new feature film Strangeways Here We Come. The film stars Michelle Keegan, Lauren Socha and Nina Wadia, and is directed by top local director Chris Green.
The nine-piece band will also be touring this summer.* Be sure to catch their classy blend of potent, political rap and, later in the year, the release of their album Missing Peace.
Copies of the Music from the North EP can be purchased from Salford City Radio for a donation of just £5.
Contact Salford City Radio direct phone 0161 793 2939 or click here
or email Steve Doyle stephendoyle77@hotmail.co.uk
See also the video trailer for Music from the North on YouTube click here
For more details on A1(M) Records see the website click here
* Catch The Moods live in the North West: 16th June Manchester, Rebellion; 24th June Bolton, Blind Tiger; 15th July Liverpool, Zanzibar; 8th September, Manchester, O2 Ritz (album launch party).
Words by Ian Leslie
The Moods photo by Calder Marley-Taylor
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