It was an early start for The Strawberries who were welcomed by a crowded room at Night and Day, eager to see the lads from Leeds showcase in This Feeling's Big in 2017. They kicked off the night with their psychedelic blues, captivating the crowd with charisma and dreamy vocals as they switched between frontmen. With a busy couple months ahead of them including dates with This Feeling and The Blinders, The Strawberries are not ones to miss.
Next up was The Assist, Midlands favourites that hail from Walsall and who have recently toured with Ratboy and The Twang. As soon as they bounce on stage, they have an energy and enthusiasm which excites the crowd.
Next, the boy from Bolton, Jordan Allen, swaggers onto stage with sharp lyrics that tell a story and catchy riffs that get the crowd dancing. Jordan is on tour iwith The Sherlock’s right now, so if you've got a ticket get down early to check him out.
Local lads Dantevilles have been gathering a large fan base since supporting Blossoms last year, their pop rock songs are catchy and upbeat, particularly new single 'Graffiti'.
Next up on this relentless night of new music, April took to the stage wanting to make their impression on Manchester. They are a band which proves indie rock is not dead and with their recent single 'Open Mind' the lads are flying the flag for new music. April soon embark on tour with Cabbage and The Shimmer Band. Every venue has sold out. If you've got a ticket you're in for a treat.
The psychedelic rock and roll of White Room followed, a very special band on the cusp of greatness. Frontman Jake is a true performer and backing vocals from new bassist Josie add vibrancy to the group.
A riot ensures wherever Strangebones go, their heavy rock and raw vocals cause you to expel any angst you have in the world and leave you breathless and full of energy. The band are currently on tour with Black Waters who they played alongside This Feeling Big in 2017 London show and also tipped for greatness. They are the perfect match for co headline, you will not leave disappointed.
The headline slot came from no other than The Blinders, a trio from Doncaster that now reside in Manchester. Night And Day saw one of their most engaging shows to date, an "I was there" show if ever there was one. Everyone that could get in the venue (scores of people were left outside, a pair of tickets went for £50!) was wrapped tightly around the stage, transfixed and bodies falling about – half dancing, half jumping on friend's shoulders, some knocked to the floor and still singing every word to their debut 'Swine' which notably first aired on Huw Stephen's Radio 1 evening show. They aren't being called Manchester's most exciting live band right now for no reason, the rowdy crowd in Manchester were left enraptured feeling like they had just watched a band which are the brink of big things.
Listen to the This Feeling 'Big In 2017' playlist:
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Words: Siobhan Anna Kelban
Photos: Shari Denson Siobhan
