What’s On

Wigan band, the Stanleys arrive at The Portland Arms, fresh from supporting Richard Ashcroft, Cast and Shed Seven across the UK – and their recent headline show at the 950 capacity Manchester Academy 2, which sold out in minutes!

Having also been on the road with the likes of The Libertines, The Lathums, The Sherlocks, Jamie Webster, The View and Inspiral Carpets, it’s only a matter of time before the Stanleys are as well-known across the UK, as they are across Manchester and the North-West.

“Well thought out musicianship” and “well on the way to making
something special” – BBC Radio Manchester

Support comes from two bands destined for a big future, Afterdrive and The Portland.

Afterdrive
In just a short time, Ipswich band, Afterdrive have already become admired for their perfect blend of pop and indie music and receive regular airplay on prestigious national platforms like BBC Radio 1 and Radio X.

The Portland
The Portland are definitely one to keep an eye on. With influences as diverse at The Pixies and Bill Callahan, The Portland are going places.

‘Prima Queen’s ethereal sound, which shimmers with delicate vocal interplay and glacial instrumentation, takes them to regal heights’ NME

Transatlantic indie experts Prima Queen announce debut LP ‘The Prize’, packed with effusive, empathic melodies, ‘The Prize’ represents a fresh era for a band primed and ready to truly assert their individuality. The songs of Louise Macphail and Kristin McFadden play like a love letter to the radical power of friendship; to the fans who have revelled in the band’s bitingly charismatic storytelling, qualities which are showcased vividly throughout their entire debut record.

Described, accurately, by McFadden as an album that ‘screams empowerment and strength,’ ‘The Prize’ uses the pair’s fateful connection as a North Star for their shared journey towards growth. Tapping into the shimmering pop sensibilities of Haim and Jenny Lewis, an openness of spirit defines the 12 tracks, partly inspired by the euphoria the group experienced on stage over the past year while touring with the likes of Olivia Dean, Wet Leg and Whitney.

Having built a glowing live reputation through appearances at the likes of Glastonbury, SXSW and Pitchfork Paris in recent times, Prima Queen have already attracted plaudits from all corners of the press landscape (The Guardian, The I Paper, The Independent, The Times, NME, DIY, Dork, The Line Of Best Fit, Clash), whilst their previous five singles have all landed on the BBC 6 Music playlist (Steve Lamacq, Huw Stephens, Lauren Laverne, Craig Charles) to widespread praise.

Wesson (TBC)

Hip Hop pioneer and 90’s icon Betty Boo is a platinum-selling, Brit,and Ivor Novello Award-winning singer-songwriter and rapper. She is best known for her hits “Hey DJ – I Can’t Dance To That Music You’re Playing,” “Doin’ The Do” and “Where Are You Baby?” which propelled her into the spotlight in 1990. In 2022 after a 30 year hiatus, Betty Boo made an unexpected return with the critically acclaimed, radio smash filled album “Boomerang.” She followed this with her 2024 UK Top 40 album, “Rip Up The Rulebook,” which has been universally described as her best album to date.

35 years later, Betty Boo’s hits remain deeply loved, and she is celebrating this monumental milestone with special edition re-releases of her two classic 90s albums: Boomania and GRRR! It’s Betty Boo.

80s parody spandex band back to the Portland for the first time in 3 years.

Mardy Bums – Arctic Monkeys Tribute
Doors 8.15pm
Show 9.00pm

Brought together by their shared passion for the music of Alex Turner & co, they have built a fantastic reputation on the live venue and festival scenes. With their raw energy and authenticity, their sensational live performances have been rocking crowds of all ages all over the UK with the best hits from the UK’s very own rock legends.
With true dedication for the creation of an authentic Arctic Monkeys experience and playing all of the most iconic tunes with a few B sides thrown in for good measure….
Mardy Bums are coming. You’d better get on your dancing shoes!

TBC

The Jexit (The Jam covers band)