It’s a bleak time for the music and events industry – what with limited capacities, the rule of six, mandatory masks, and not to mention the ludicrous 10pm curfew.
An entire culture is being crippled – with livelihoods at risk.
Hospitality and music venues argue they’re not the problem, yet these sectors have been shackled more than most. Now, with a second hospitality closure on the horizon, it’s difficult to see how much good could come from it all. But in what’s been extremely hard period for the music scene, there is still a light that will never go out (cue a poor The Smiths reference).
As we were locked down at home, music became our lifeline. Not a day went by where we didn’t shove a Spotify playlist on and reminisce over bygone festivals and Covid-cancelled gigs. It kept us sane. But for many producers and DJs, lockdown became a sanctuary where they could solely focus on their craft. The result? Heaps of new music born.
We spoke to some independent Manchester-based music label owners about their experiences of Covid-19. And it seems they’ve had something of a creative epiphany. Demo submissions are flooding in. Sales are up. Creativity is high. And consumption is even higher.
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Here’s what they had to say.
ANIMA
Jini Cowan. Image: Miriam Vaughan
DJ and producer Jini Cowan owns ANIMA, a Manchester house and minimal label which launched in 2016. Its releases have been featured in the likes of Mixmag and the Beatport Top 10. And it’s made a name for itself with a string of successful events around the UK.
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But with all three of the planned ANIMA events this year inevitably getting cancelled, Jini has experienced disappointment like most in the music scene. But given everything, this year has proven an interesting time for her and the label, especially in terms of productivity.
“My workflow over lockdown has increased significantly,” she told The Manc. “My [mastering] business had the busiest two months since I started trading and I’d say that’s because producers have had spare time to focus on making music, which is great.”
Jini believes producers are feeling inspired at the minute, and rightly so. Emotions are running high and anger is accumulating. So, people are finding comfort and expression in their music. In her own work, Jini has tried to vent her own feelings into her music.
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“I’ve tried channelling my anger and frustration into making music,” she said.
“I managed to get seven new tracks done over the lockdown period. If I can do it, then anyone can,”
So, like Jini, producers everywhere have been beavering away with all their extra spare time. This means plenty of tracks are getting dished out to prospective labels.
“I’ve had a lot of demo submissions. I’m looking forward to listening to these and scheduling some more releases.”
Jini teaching. Instagram/JC DJ Academy
Submissions have been coming in so thick and fast that Jini has taken on a new A&R (fellow DJ, Holly Why) to take care of them.
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As well as the label, Jini owns JC DJ Academy which offers DJing and production courses, studio space hire and livestream equipment.
The academy has recently moved from inside Kable Club to expand to its own purpose-built studio in the Northern Quarter, so it now has more space to grow and be itself. And with a fully-booked diary every week, it’s encouraging to learn that business behind the music is booming – even after Covid.
If that isn’t motivation, I don’t know what is.
Do As You Please
Joe Roche (aka Niall)
Elsewhere in Manchester, online record store and independent record label Do As You Please (DAYP), tells a similar story.
DAYP boss, Niall Roche (who DJs under the name Joe Roche), thinks the music industry has been left to rot by the government in recent months. Sadly, Niall’s experience has been a predictable one.
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“Due to Covid, I lost all of my DJ income, meaning all the money made from DAYP went onto my personal living costs and food rather than being reinvested back into the business,” he said.
“The knock-on effect of that really put the business in a difficult position. I couldn’t restock the record store, pay my freelance colleagues for their services, buy merchandise for the label releases and the list goes on.”
In the end, Niall had to take a DIY approach for DAYP to cut costs. He taught himself the technical skills needed in order to get his second release out. In particular, tasks he’d usually outsource to freelance creatives, like the graphics and visuals.
Now, he’s in a much better position. He has a solid group of people working with his brand, with some even offering their services for free. It’s inspiring to see how the music community is coming together to help one another.
Once upon a pre-covid time, DJing was Niall’s main source of income. Without that, he’s experienced personal challenges. However, DAYP is cracking on resiliently. “I’ve been really pleased to see DAYP have a steady stream of demos coming in, from the UK and even some from abroad,” he said.
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“I’ve received a few from some younger artists which has been great to see. It’s been great to listen to what they’re up to and help, advise and feedback on their projects.
“The current signings on the label have been sending some really amazing stuff over, and we have some fantastic newcomers which I can’t wait to get releases sorted for. Overall, I’d say it’s been more positive than negative.”
Niall Roche
It’s determination that will ensure the industry gets through this dark time, though.
“I honestly think personal perseverance is going to be key for survival through this. Planning, networking and patience,” Niall said.
Last month, we reported that one-third of musicians are considering giving up their careers thanks to Covid-19’s impacts. And that may be so for indie and rock type music genres. But the underground music scene has flourished with creativity and resourcefulness. The influx of submissions coming into the DAYP inbox is a sure sign that nothing will stop this industry from dancing. And DJs and producers will not give up on their passions – despite what Rishi tells them.
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When we asked Niall if he had anything else to add, his reply was simple: Support creatives.
“Buy an art print, download a track, unapologetically share everything you can and big up your friends work regardless of how many followers they have,” he said.
“Limit your screen time, talk to each other and stop throwing shit in the river Irwell!”
Don’t forget to follow The Manc Audio on Instagram to stay up to date on all things music in Manchester.
Audio
Smirnoff teams up with Co-op Live for new Summer Series
Danny Jones
Smirnoff, the world’s number-one vodka brand not to mention a leading force in wider music culture, has officially partnered with Co-op Live to mark the opening of the new state-of-the-art venue and its debut calendar.
The partnership will see the new ‘Co-op Live Summer Series presented by Smirnoff‘ run until 13 September 2024. As part of the collaboration, the vodka brand will surprise and delight guests visiting the venue with great-tasting drinks and the ultimate night out, with VIP packages and more.
Co-op Live has curated a stacked lineup of popular bands, singers and entertainers, including some of the biggest names in music, who are set to perform at Europe’s largest indoor entertainment venue.
Starting the Summer Series off with a bang presented by Smirnoff celebrations, the brand is offering friends a chance to win tickets to see their favourite stars perform live, hosted by celebrities including TV favourite Callum Jones, as well as social media and makeup virtuoso Mitchell Halliday.
Alongside their hosts, winners will enjoy access to the exclusive Decibel Club and enjoy the concert from a private suite hosted by Smirnoff, fully immersing themselves in the ultimate venue experience. Competition details (18+ only) can be found on Smirnoff’s Instagram page.
Attendees at the 23,500 capacity Co-op Live arena will have the opportunity to choose from a range of Smirnoff favourites, including Smirnoff Raspberry Crush, Smirnoff Mango and Passionfruit Twist, Smirnoff No.21 and more.
These drinks will be available to guests over 18 at bars and grab-and-go stations throughout the venue, including the Smirnoff Founders Bar. Guests can also try the newest addition to the range, Smirnoff Spicy Tamarind, at the bar located on the concourse – fingers crossed there’ll be plenty of sun too.
There is a unique must-try experience for all gig attendees: a 360-photo booth on Level 3, where guests can use fun props to snap the best and most high-end selfies they’ve ever taken, and have a chance to get their tickets upgraded that evening.
Operated by holding group Diaego, the aim of Smirnoff’s Co-op Live Summer Series is to reflect the vodka brand’s ongoing commitment to making music more accessible to everyone.
Smirnoff recently rolled out its ‘WE DO US’ campaign, activated through a series of initiatives that aim to reignite social connections and lower barriers to socialising.
Tyler Monk, Smirnoff Brand Manager at Diageo Great Britain, said: “Smirnoff is on a mission to make music more accessible and create unforgettable experiences that bring people together through live music. We’re proud to partner with Co-op Live and be part of Manchester’s vibrant music scene, offering great-tasting Smirnoff drinks, music, and unique experiences to a wider audience.”
Check the website for the full schedule of events at Co-op Live HERE.
Featured Images — Smirnoff (supplied)/The Manc Group
Audio
Tramlines Festival 2024 – tickets, stage times, drinks prices and everything you need to know
Emily Johnson
Tramlines Festival returns to Hillsborough Park for another year and we here at Audio North cannot wait to walk back out onto that field.
Between Friday, 26 July and Sunday, 28 July 2024, festival-goers will have the opportunity to watch some of the UK’s best musical talent and discover new acts on the smaller stages in the musical city of Sheffield.
The line-up is stacked this year, with Paolo Nutini, Jamie T and Snow Patrol taking the headline slots over the weekend, alongside huge acts such as Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Bombay Bicycle Club, Miles Kane, The Human League, Bombay Bicycle Club and Tom Grennan.
Over 100 acts are expected to perform at Tramlines 2024 across five stages, with an array of genres from indie rock, pop, punk, hip hop, comedy and more. There’s definitely something for everyone.
Credit: Tramlines (supplied)
Tramlines lineup 2024
Friday 26 July
Kicking off the weekend and setting the bar high, Paolo Nutini is set to headline the main stage on Friday 26 July. With huge hits like ‘New Shoes’, ‘Candy’ and all-time favourite ‘Last Request’, the soulful Scot knows how to get a crowd going.
Bombay Bicycle Club will also perform in the evening, the perfect band to play as the sunsets over Hillsborough Park. With over six albums to pick from, we’re guaranteed some bangers.
The full line-up for Friday includes Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Miles Kane, Coach Party, The View, The Charlatans, SOFT PLAY, The Mysterines, Dylan John Thomas, Mitch Santiago, Lucy Beaumont, Hannah Rowe and Matilda Shakes.
The Sarah Nulty stage schedule is as follows:
Paolo Nutini: 8.15pm-10.15pm
Bombay Bicycle Club: 6.15pm-7.15pm
Sophie Ellis-Bextor: 4.45pm-5.30pm
Miles Kane: 3.50pm-4.15pm
Coach Party: 2.30pm-3pm
The View (Special Guests): 1.15pm-2pm
Bedroom High Club: 12.15pm-12.45pm
Credit: Supplied
Saturday 27 July
The excitement continues over the weekend with indie legend Jamie T taking the headline slot Saturday night, with the crowd belting out British classics of ‘Sheila’, ‘Zombie’, and ‘Sticks n Stones’. We’re proper buzzing for it. The crowd will be warmed up with Tom Grennan and Scottish indie rock band, The Snuts.
The Sarah Nulty stage schedule is as follows:
Jamie T: 8.45pm-10.15pm
Tom Grennan: 6.45pm-7.45pm
The Snuts: 5pm-5.45pm
Sprints: 3.45pm-4.15pm
Nieve Ella: 2.45pm-3.15pm
Everly Pregnant Brothers: 1.15pm-2.15pm
The Leadmill Studio Orchestra: 12.15pm-12.45pm
Credit: Supplied
Sunday 28 July
Snow Patrol will close the festival Sunday night, with tear-jerking tunes like ‘Chasing Cars’ and ‘Open Your Eyes’. But before the Irish trio take the stage and switch up the genre, The Human League will perform before Example will get the crowd partying with his massive hits like ‘Kickstarts’ and ‘Changed the Way You Kiss Me’.
The Sarah Nulty stage schedule is as follows:
Snow Patrol: 7.45pm-9.15pm
The Human League: 5.45pm-6.45pm
Example: 4pm-4.45pm
Flowerovlove: 2.45pm-3.15pm
Maximo Park (Special Guests): 1.30pm-2.15pm
Phillipa Zawe: 12.30pm-1pm
Credit: Supplied
Tickets
There are still some tickets are still available on the Tramlines website. The gates open at 12pm each day, with the last entry being at 19:30.
Resale tickets for the full weekend are set at £140; Friday will cost £65, Saturday £45 and Sunday £55 and there are lots of affordable prices for kids too.
You can see the full list of prices and grab yours HERE.
Tramlines Festival map and how to get there
Arriving by train
For people travelling into the city from elsewhere, Sheffield is easily accessible from all across the country, with regular trains running around the region and one central station. From there, the festival site is accessible via taxi, bus or tram, and only takes approximately 15 mins.
The tramlines to, well, Tramlines…
As the name would suggest, the festival is pretty much built for public transport and Sheffield’s great tram links mean it’s really easy to get there. Supertram has all the info you need for your weekend travel and can find all the info and ticket prices by downloading the TSY Mobile app.
You can catch these from the following key locations:
Yellow Route
Middlewood Park & Ride
The Cathedral
Meadowhall Park & Ride
Use Hillsborough Park stop and head for the Middlewood Rd Entrance.
Blue Route
Malin Bridge Park & Ride
The Cathedral
Sheffield Railway Station / Hallam University
Halfway Park & Ride
Use Hillsborough stop and head for the Middlewood Rd Entrance.
Supertram services will run every six minutes from the city centre to Hillsborough Park, which is then just a short two-minute walk to the festival.
As for when you’re leaving, it’s worth noting that the Hillsborough Park and Hillsborough Corner stops will be closed after the show, so you will have access to the Leppings Lane stop from within the park after the headliners have finished. You can view the full list of stops or plan your journey HERE.
There are two entrances: Penistone Rd, S6 2AN OR Middlewood Rd, S6 4HA
By bus
Just like the rail, Sheffield also has great bus links in Sheffield that can help you get to and from Tramlines. There is a dedicated Hillsborough Park bus stop but do keep in mind that there will likely be some disruptions/delays when leaving the festival. You can plan your journey via Travel South Yorkshire.
By car
Given that Tramlines is a Metropolitan festival and built for public transport, organisers strongly recommend not driving to the event given the amount of congestion and in an effort to reduce the environmental impact over the weekend; however, you can find out more about parking etc. HERE.
As a pedestrian
In all honesty, once you’re in Sheffield, one of the easiest ways to get to Tramlines is simply on foot after hopping on a tram or a bus, but should you also want to cycle to the festival, there is a bike rack at the Penistone Road entrance (S6 2AN).
Food and drink – vendors and prices
With all that partying you will definitely build up an appetite. Luckily, Tramlines has tons of food vendors for you to choose from, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.
With over 40,000 festival goers to feed, there are plenty of options to keep you full, from Proove Pizza, ‘As Tha Got Beef and Get Wurst just to name a few.
As for drink prices this year, a pint at Tramlines will cost you anywhere from £6-£7 depending on what beer you go for, whereas cans of cider start from £6.25; wine starts from £10 for English sparkling white wine, with rose and pinot grigio costing £16 for a half or £32 for a full bottle.
Sprit and mixers deals start from £7.25 with the option to double up for £2.50 and you can push all the way up to £9.25 for an official Red Bull cocktail. Meanwhile, your shots are a fiver (barring jager bombs set at £6.50), soft drinks start from £2.90 and water is £2.70.
And with that, this should be just about all you need to know ahead of Tramlines 2024 – all that’s left to do is go and enjoy yourselves, and The Sheff crew will see you there!
Oh, and make sure to keep your eyes over on the brand-new Audio North for all the best coming out of this year’s festival. It’ll look a little something like this…