Thousands of music fans headed to the gorgeous grounds of Capesthorne Hall on Saturday to see a number of top rated acts perform in the stunning grounds.
There were two stages this year and the one that was most certainly the liveliest was the Indie Stage run by team Mancunia, Anton, Georgina and their regular team kept indie fans thoroughly entertained for hours. I honestly believe that fans would have been perfectly content with the ticket price for this stage alone.
Mancunia has championed the grass roots music scene for the last six plus years, and kicking off their tent was rising star Nico Harmony. Nico has been making waves in the singer songwriting world, and I expect big things as she finds her place on more and more line-ups across the city.
Indie band Shade received a warm welcome from the crowd, but the excitement rose when Happy Monday’s dancer and all round entertainer Bez entered the stage. Accompanied by his son Arlo on the decks, you cannot deny that Bez is a massive crowd pleaser. Backstage some lucky fans had an opportunity meet the legend in person, and he was on wonderful form.
Following Bez were Manchester icons Inspiral Carpets. I have never seen these guys do a thing wrong, not only are they the friendliest guys in the industry they know how to work an audience. The crowd, suitably warmed up by Bez’s antics smashed the indie tent with a lengthy set list which of course included many sing-a-longs during ‘This is How it Feels’ and ‘Saturn 5’. The festivities continued with Mancunia’s resident DJ MC Tunes playing out the Indie Tent, and it would appear many fans stuck around due to the epic vibe curated by team Mancunia, I sincerely hope they get their indie tent again next year!
The final band for me was a short walk to the main stage which did seem a little quieter. Perhaps I have attended too many rowdy indoor punk gigs of late, but this seemed a very chilled affair. A lot of fans choosing to sit on the grass in the sunshine with a small gathering at the barrier.
Peter Hook and the Light were the headliners and Hooky was in fine voice, effortlessly cool as always playing a combination of Joy Division and New Order. Hook has excellent stage presence, commanding attention and accompanied by his talented band, this was a perfect end to what has been a truly enjoyable experience. A pleasant change of scenery and one I hope to replicate in 2026!
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