Free things to do this weekend, ft. Band on the Wall, Hiker Meat + Jonny Dub

The January events calendar is always one that moves at a half-heartedly sluggish pace, knowing full well that we’re all still coming down from that hyperactive festive period. But it’s time to emerge from our hibernation, and luckily for those suffering from the mild poverty of the post-Christmas, pre-payday limbo, there are some free things to do this weekend – and even luckier, we’ve rounded up the best of the bunch.

Jonny Dub at Common
One of our clubbing picks of the week, Jonny Dub heads to Common this Friday. His ‘club-smashing abilities’ are well-known, but this Friday should give him the chance to play around in a slightly more laid-back atmosphere, thanks to Common’s backdrop of loyal Friday night regulars and easy-going punters out for a good time. Be sure to head down before 10pm, though afterwards will only set you back two shiny pound coins.
Fri 17 Jan, Common, 39-41 Edge Street, M4 1HW, FREE before 10pm (£2 OTD after), www.skiddle.com

Jamie Shovlin: Hiker Meat at Cornerhouse
We’ve already mentioned conceptual artist Jamie Shovlin’s latest work at Cornerhouse, but this weekend sees a range of free events celebrating the launch of its adjoining exhibition, Hiker Meat. Swing by between 6pm and 8pm on Fri 17 Jan for the preview night, featuring an exclusive talk from special effects Kev Thornton, who will discuss the B-movie monster of Hiker Meat. Alternatively, wait until 1pm the next day, when Shovlin and curator Sarah Perks will be treating visitors to a tour of the exhibition, providing a unique opportunity to explore the show in more detail and ask any questions (booking recommended).
Sat 18 Jan (preview night Fri 17 Jan) – Mon 21 Apr, Cornerhouse, 70 Oxford Street, M1 5NH, Exhibition open Tue – Sat 12pm – 8pm; Sun 12pm – 6pm, Exhibition and many events FREE, www.cornerhouse.org

Acoustic Bhuna at Band on the Wall (pictured)
Band on the Wall have been known to treat us with a freebie Sunday sesh or two, but it would appear that the concept has received some fine tuning as the venue launches its Acoustic Bhuna showcase evening every first and third Sunday of the month. This week’s local flavour comes from up-and-coming Manchester lads, Death to the Strange, ‘purveyors of sunshine harmony folk-pop refreshment’, Papa Guns, and flamenco guitarist, Skutch Manos. Bhunas are optional.
Sun 19 Jan, Band on the Wall, 25 Swan Street, M4 5JZ, 6pm – 10pm, FREE, www.bandonthewall.org