It's been two years since I first caught The Moods live. It was at an event put together by A1M Records showcasing some of the region's best talent. After releasing their debut album Missing Peace last year, The Moods even went on to win Salford Star's Best Band Award.
Now, Music from the North is back to kick off festive celebrations in style. I caught up with A1M's Paul Travis, who explained that releasing The Moods' Missing Peace was a real highlight for the company...
"It's been a wonderful and rewarding experience being part of their journey" he said "The album was released in September 2017 and rapidly made a phenomenal impact, with physical and download sales in over 24 countries, over 120,000 streams and five-star stellar reviews.
"Two powerful singles: Joy and P.O.P (Profit over People) were followed by the summer dance anthem, Carnival, which received multiple, national and regional radio plays on BBC Radio along with over fifty other UK, regional and student FM stations. Further afield, global internet radio stations broadcasted tracks from Missing Peace to over one hundred countries, whilst videos have racked up in excess of 80,000 views on YouTube, Facebook and Vevo TV."
Music from the North has curated an eclectic line-up. Once again The Moods top a bill that gives a platform to other great, local acts. The Moods alone are worth double the entrance fee, but it will be worth getting along early doors to hear a line-up that has been lovingly compiled by passionate fans of 'real' talent.
Pleasures promise a raucous set with tunes inspired by classic, angular rock n' roll bands including The Stooges, The Ramones and Cabbage. The show is a diverse showcase, and Glove offer a healthy slab of soul and dance, while Falling Ghost are a dreamy ensemble that have been compared to acts including The XX, London Grammar and Radiohead. The evening will also feature a DJ set from Salford City Radio's resident expert Stephen Doyle.
So, what's next for A1M?
"Moving into 2019, we are looking to expand the roster, maybe sign an additional band, or just help someone with a digital release, first EP or debut album" Paul explained "The traditional way a record label works is changing and we want to keep relevant and up to date, as we embark on new ventures and projects. We certainly don't do it for the money!
"We are currently in discussion to do a one-hour A1M records New Music Show for internet radio so we are on the hunt for new talent, bands and music" he added "We have revamped our website and, as a small Salford based label, we have limited resources, but our energy and passion for new and exciting music makes up for that."
Get in touch, send music and submit demos via www.a1mrecords.com Meanwhile, tickets are selling fast for this great Music from the North event.
Music from the North
A1M Records
The Moods, Pleasures, Glove, Falling Ghosts and DJ Stephen Doyle
Saturday 15th December from 7pm
Band On The Wall
Tickets at £10.95 on sale now – click here
The Moods ace new video Missing Peace was released last night - click here to watch it
Words by Ian Leslie