Guy Garvey, Huw Stephens and the brains behind Bluedot and Kendal Calling are among those taking part in Manchester’s new, one-day music conference and live music showcase, Off The Record. This thrilling addition to Manchester’s musical landscapes includes contributions from music website Louder Than War, a showcase of 30 of the UK’s most promising live acts plus workshops and panel discussions. The live music programme will only be unveiled the night before – but many of the key conference participants have now been confirmed. Here are a few highlights:-
Talk: Tim Burgess on running an independent label
The Charlatan’s front man, Tim Burgess has a wealth of industry knowledge, drawn from years of performing, touring, running his own label (O Genesis) and writing books. He’ll be in conversation with Dave Haslam – the former Haçienda DJ, journalist and author. Camille Bennett, whose band, Tear, have released music through O Genesis, will join to share her experiences. Burgess’s recent venture into mobile tea and coffee, Tim Peaks Diner, will be serving brews throughout the day.
Music and politics debate: Labour MPs Andy Burnham & Steve Rotherham talk about the legacy of the past and facing the future in Liverpool and Manchester
This sounds like a lively debate. The Labour mayoral candidate who voiced his concern about Manchester’s reliance on past musical icons, Burnham, and his Labour colleague, the Liverpool Walton MP Rotherham, put their heads together on the theme of music and culture in their respective cities. Topics are likely to include: soundproofing new apartments, venue noise levels and the night-time economy. This debate is chaired by Dave Haslam, author of Life After Dark about history of British night clubs.
Keynote event: Everything Everything in conversation with Dave Haslam
Haslam chews the fat with Jeremy Pritchard and Jonathan Higgs from one of Manchester’s best-loved musical exports, Everything Everything, for the event’s keynote conversation. As one of the country’s most erudite and popular bands, expect witty and interesting anecdote and opinion as well as inspiration for Manchester’s the next musical generation.
Masterclass: Music photography ft. Definitely Maybe’s Brian Cannon
Head behind the lens with celebrated photographer, Brian Cannon (Suede, Oasis, The Verve) as he takes a seat next to The 1975’s David Drake. Topics covered are likely to include the importance of image making in music past and present, as well as how to nail the perfect shot.
Events listed above are part of Off the Record conference: Fri 4 Nov, Central Methodist Hall, Central Buildings, Oldham Street, Manchester, M1 1JQ, 9am-6pm, £15 (conference only). The Live Music part of Off the Record sees 30 new bands hand picked by an expert panel that includes Guy Garvie (Elbow) and Radio 1’s Huw Stephens. Northern Quarter venues taking part include the Castle and Night and Day, 6pm-late, £20 (live music only), £35 (conference + live music), www.otrmcr.com
- Words:
- Ian Pennington
- Published on:
- Sun 30 Oct 2016
