Strangerways @ Cellar Vie, 04/12/08

STRANGERWAYS IS the brainchild of James “Macca” McGovern, who set out with the simple aim of promoting some of Manchester’s best new music. “Best” and “Manchester” are the key words here. Throughout the night, emerging talent like Orphan Boy and Stormy Corner were played alongside classics from bands such as The Smiths, Joy Division and Oasis. DJ duties were shared between Macca and two friends who, covering all styles from post-punk to progressive powerpop, as well as taking requests, never failed to work up a reaction from the crowd.

But the success of any club night depends on so much more than the music. The venue itself is unimposing yet welcoming, with its cosy basement and friendly staff. Something of a treasure in an area now dominated by bar chains and over-priced nightclubs, Cellar Vie entertains folk regardless of the vagaries of fashion, and is an ideal place to escape to if you want to avoid the Deansgate Lock throngs and Northern Quarter hipsters.

It’s not as if there is a shortage of new music nights in the area, but Strangerways is a breath of fresh air among clubs that insist on churning out mainstream indie to drunken teenagers. The opening night could have gone either way as Macca competed with some of the more established nights in the area, and it is to his credit that such a large and enthusiastic crowd was present to witness this unique event. No doubt the word will quickly spread, and with dates already organised for early next year, Strangerways looks set to become something of a local institution. Nowhere else is there a club night that really champions the sounds coming out of the garages and rehearsal rooms of Manchester.

Rating: 4/5 stars