Doves new single Kingdom of Rust is an apt summary of the current state of the nation, particularly Manchester and the surrounding area with the video casting a shadow over the city in a similar vein to The Smiths There is a Light that Never Goes Out. Listening to it approaching Manchester Piccadilly station – I’m here to see local solo artist Natalie Findlay – the train cuts through a mass of run down and abandoned buildings mirroring those seen in the aforementioned Doves video. By the looks of things it could easily be 1983 out there on those streets and the feeling in the centre of town seems a far cry from the optimism running through the city in the lead up to 2001 common wealth games but hey at least it’s not Detroit. Anyhow, that’s the recession for you and regardless of the times Manchester always seems to produce exciting new musical talent and Natalie Findlay is no exception. Breezing through a half hour set she exhumes the confidence and singing voice of a performer that belies her 17 years. She's certainly one to watch.
Before heading up to Newcastle I pay a visit to Piccadilly Records - one of few remaining independent UKrecord shops - and pick up the new Animal Collective, Bonnie Prince Billy and Black Lips records. They are all top drawer aside from the Black Lips record that leaves more to be desired.
No comments:
Post a Comment