Alexia Kapranos

Elbow, Phones 4U Arena, Manchester

A sense of occasion that sits perfectly alongside their cheeky brand of light entertainment.

Queens Of The Stone Age, Phones 4U Arena, Manchester

Josh Homme pulls no punches.

Billie Joe + Norah – Foreverly

A rewarding listen that serves its purpose mighty well.

The National, Apollo, Manchester

The purveyors of indie doom and gloom find a couple of reasons to be cheerful. 

Tim Burgess, Band On The Wall, Manchester

Madchester seems a faded memory and Nashville rather than Northwich is in prime position.

Manic Street Preachers, The Ritz, Manchester

A captivating performance from the Manics.

The Stone Roses, Finsbury Park, London

The park is bursting with energy within the palm of their anthemic-delivering hands.

Japandroids, Academy, Manchester

Brian King and Dave Prowse have a big sound that is capable of poaching unsuspecting victims and whipping them in to a frenzy. 

City Reign, The Castle Hotel, Manchester

Their performance is bold throughout and they do not shy away from reaching for arena-style moments.

Paul Banks, Sound Control, Manchester

He sounds like Eeyore trying to crack a joke at a birthday party.

Willy Mason, Ruby Lounge, Manchester

Mason shines best in intimate venues such as this where the rich and raspy tone of his narration of fabled Americana is best appreciated.

Swim Deep, The Ritz, Manchester

The swagger of a Brummie Tom Meighan if he were dipped in sugar and lightly coated in Jesus and Mary Chain vibes.

The Cribs, Academy, Sheffield

Ryan and Gary are at their best when they are trading vocals and bouncing across the stage like boys having OD'ed on too many blue smarties.

Deer Tick, Sound Control, Manchester

Originally associated by sound with Bright Eyes and Uncle Tupelo, Rhode Island's Deer Tick show Manchester Sound Control there's more rock n roll to their alt-country roots.

Regina Spektor, O2 Apollo, Manchester

Regina never fails to be anything short of intriguing and charming.

The Birthday Suit: ‘We’re Followed By Bad Luck’

Rod Jones gives us the lowdown on new music, 'old-fashioned' values and his future plans.

Kaiser Chiefs, Manchester Academy

Their live formula is one that feels natural and one that they should stick to because, well, it works.

Paul McCartney, MEN Arena, Manchester

The National Treasure is a rock n roll beast and TM original musical genius.

Jesse Malin, Ruby Lounge, Manchester

Malin will win the hearts of those persons who are smart enough to see him live.

My Morning Jacket, Manchester Academy 2

Towel-hooded singer Jim James hits his vocals with hammer-like precision.

Kele: “When Did Being In A Band Become A Lifestyle?”

Kele Okereke tells us about his new life in New York.

Laura Marling, Cathedral, Manchester

Laura Marling brings musical salvation to Manchester Cathedral.

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