This overlooked British outfit still know how to produce some of the most gutsy and infectious rock music around.

A step-down from their last Mancunian venture at Academy 1, The Maccabees prove that it’s not where you play but how you play that matters.

Think Frankie Cocozza’s the most badass, rock n roll knobhead you’ve ever seen strutting his stuff? You’ve clearly never seen The Darkness then.

Poetry and drum cymbals set alight? This isn’t your usual gig. This is a King Blues gig.

The Dum Dum Girls manage to achieve the rare feat of recalling Joy Division in a manner that isn’t jarringly obvious.

You can’t doubt Rise Against’s passion and stamina but as far as live experiences go, this one was a little disappointing.

A modest but devoted crowd greet Brooklyn band The Antlers.

A feeling of missed opportunity for the lack of a smashing set that the regulars at WHP have come to expect.

Now Wave presents…Spectrals, Girls and Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks.

Strikingly-named Bass Drum of Death play in one of the more unlikely Manchester venues.

Two 4 star reviews of Corgan and co. Just because.

Warning: article contains a half-naked photo of Brandon Boyd. Don’t say we don’t give you anything nice to look at.

Arriving 20 minutes late on the eve of Halloween, it’s difficult to discern what the band have more of – instruments or facial hair.

Alternative 5-piece, Rook and the Ravens, play a blinding show to a sold out Deaf Institute.

A short but sweet set from the Swedish songstress.

SB6 aren’t exactly changing the world but with as loyal a fanbase as theirs, it doesn’t look like they’ll be disappearing anytime soon either.

If you ever need someone to “break down a party landmine” for you, these are your guys.

James Birtles talks to Staind frontman, Aaron Lewis, about the new album, fans and Staind’s greatest career moment.

German friends, Digitalism, know how to put on a memorable and exciting set.

Lingering, delicate and hauntingly beautiful. It can only be Bon Iver.