Sounds From the Other City (SFTOC) began in 2005 with the intention of showcasing the region's wealth of current local talent. Rather than relying on Salford's rich creative history, SFTOC set out to bang the drum about the here and now.
The first occurrence was such a success that SFTOC started to grow in size and reputation. While the rich local scene still has pride of place, SFTOC started to blossom and featured acts from further afield. Many great headliners have performed along Chapel Street over the last twelve years. SFTOC has seen early career performances from a diverse group of artists including Alt-J, The Ting Tings, Jane Weaver and Go Go Penguin. It has established itself as an essential on any serious festival-goers itinerary.
This year, yet again, SFTOC doesn't fail to deliver, and boasts a vibrant bill across several venues. The line-up is a celebration of the great, the weird and the wonderful, as countless acts will perform along the Chapel Street's lively creative hub.
Highlights include The Lovely Eggs, bringing their uniquely surrealist act to St Philips Church, and a definite must-see is the post-punk brilliance of Goat Girl who will be on top-form after touring with current media darlings Moonlandingz (Unit 5 Regent Trading Estate). For many the headline act is the highly-rated Mancunian band, Horsebeach who will be taking the stage at Islington Mill.
Horsebeach arrived on the scene to universal critical acclaim. Both of their first two albums were placed in the top three of the coveted Piccadilly Records Album of the Year chart. The indie 'jangle-pop' tag was soon shaken off as the band progressed, showcasing their depth and poignancy. And inevitable comparisons to The Smiths followed as they gained notoriety.
I caught up with Ryan Kennedy from Horsebeach and asked how new album, Beauty and Sadness, compares to previous sounds...
"The band is always changing, production-wise. I've learnt a lot from the past two albums so I feel I understand the recording process more. Song-writing constantly evolves as I listen to new music and life experiences come and go. I feel that the Horsebeach I started with is still in there though..."
What are the band are currently listening to?
"Rolling Blackouts, Tennis, Tornado Wallace and Sade have all been on repeat for us recently..."
Do you have a favourite venue or gig?
"It'd have to be Barrow, our friend Andy Graham puts on great gigs under the name Twang, Twang, Twang and they're always the best..."
Is there a special feel or significance to playing close to home?
"For me there is definitely a distinction, when I think of gigs in Salford, I think of either churches or Islington Mill, there's a different feel. I've been to some of my favourite gigs around Salford so it has a place in my heart."
What's next for the band?
"We're just in the middle of a small UK tour, hoping to tour further afield later in the year. Hopefully we can make it back to the lovely people at Madrid Popfest and Midi Festival. Meanwhile I'll start working on the next LP soon..."
Beauty and Sadness is available now
Catch Horsebeach and countless other great acts at Sounds From The Other City...
For full line up and ticket details – click here
See also previous Salford Star preview of this year's Sounds From The Other City – click here
Words by Ian Leslie
Photo by John Bentley
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