That certain sound is getting louder...

Photo: Paul Sterritt

RADIO legend . . . Mike Sweeney.

THE sound of sweet soul music is getting louder - and I for one am loving it!

I’m a classic example of a “soulie” who has dipped in and out of the scene since my first Northern Soul all-nighter in Morecambe in 1983.

The genre’s popularity see,s to be increasing by the day - highlighted on August 30 when the first Manchester Soul Festival was an unqualified success.

Based at Printworks in Manchester, the day was packed as top DJs and artists belted out tunes spanning six decades - the event raising £20,000 for Christies along the way.

I also jumped at the chance to attend the Bowlers soul all-nighter in Trafford Park - also packed with upwards of 2,000 dedicated dancers until dawn. The night included a spot from Oldham’s Twisted Sister DJs Debbie Carty, Wendy Bent and Cazzy Baldry.

The next big local event is here in Oldham, when Mick Harwood and his Black Sofa Records outfit (the kind sponsor of this page) host their latest Black Sofa Soul Club night at Jackson’s Pit on October 3.

Check out the Black Sofa Soul Club Facebook page for more details.


TWO Salford legends will come together in Dobcross for a special night of musical memories and mayhem.

Pies, Peas and Punk on September 30 will see local heroes Mike Sweeney and Peter Hook in a special unplugged acoustic night at the Swan.

Broadcasting legend Sweeney and Joy Division and New Order bass hero Hook will also discuss some of their exploits while on stage.

Tickets are £15 and include supper (from www.wegottickets.com/dobcross). Proceeds go to Dobcross Silver Band.


Cupids — formerly The Gramotones — have released another exciting new track. Have a listen to “Money” on the band’s Facebook page.


THE Visitors have posted their version of Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy” on their Facebook page and the reaction has been ultra-positive. Have a listen?


Check out the Velocetas on Saturday night at the Carrion Crow in Oldham. The band will be on stage from around 9pm.


OK Broken have secured a prestige support slot at Manchester’s Live Room venue on Saturday, November 21. The Chadderton/Royton-based four-piece will support All the King’s Men on the latest Mancunia Promotions show.