In The Loop ft Skittles / Fox at Roadhouse

In The Loop is the best ‘proper’ hip-hop night in Manchester. Their purist approach and encyclopedic knowledge of resident DJ Agent J, who also runs the Groovement blog (and writes for Manchester Wire), has led to the night being widely regarded in the Manchester clubbing community as an institution where you might not know every tune being selected, but you’re guaranteed to learn something. Performing live this Friday is Manchester MC Liam ‘Skittles’ Kelly (pictured). Part of the Estate Records family (Broke ’n £nglish), Skittles’ debut LP Poor with £100 Trainers was a cult hit among local hip-hop fans, and his live performances have been known to be chaotic, amusing and inslightful in equal measure, usually featuring a number of special guests and surprise collaborators. With entry price less than a cheap pint, you can’t go wrong with In The Loop this weekend.

Fri 17 May, Roadhouse, 8 Newton Street, M1 2AN. Tel: 0161 237 9789, 11pm-3am, £3 adv, www.theroadhouselive.co.uk