It might not be festival season just yet, but there’s still plenty of chance to enjoy live music with a host of bands coming to Manchester with new albums to promote and a busy summer to prepare for. From Sampha to the 1975 – here’s our pick of the best February events.
Pip Blom
Venue: Canvas
Date: 14 February
Hailing from Amsterdam, Pip Blom are one of the most exciting indie pop groups around at the minute. The Dutch four-piece released their third album Bobbie in October last year and are currently on a European tour. The night before in Sheffield has totally sold out as has the night after in Bristol so be quick.
Sampha
Venue: Aviva Studios
Date: 15 February
Mercury-Prize winning Sampha is set to take the stage at our neighbours, Factory International in the Aviva Studios. Staged in the round, this very special performance will be his first headline Manchester show for nearly seven years and one of only two UK stops on his 2024 tour.
The 1975
Venue: AO Arena
Date 17-18 February
Formed just down the road in Wilmslow, The 1975 are gracing us with two dates at the AO Arena as a part of the ‘Still… At Their Very Best’ tour. Definitely one of the most exciting events to attend in Feb.
Nouvelle Vague
Venue: Band on the Wall
Date: Friday 23 February
Famous for doing bossa nova style covers of post-punk bands like Joy Division and Public Image Limited, this is one not to be missed. Throughout their 20-year career, Nouvelle Vague have constantly re-invented their sound and changed the concept of covers. This tour coincides with the 20th anniversary of their debut album which features covers of The Clash and XTC like you’ve not heard before.
Music Feeds Live: A Concert to Fight Food Poverty
Venue: O2 Apollo Manchester
Date: 27 February
Led by James guitarist Saul Davies and his partner Vanda Guerreiro, more than 10 artists will perform to raise funds for foodbank charity The Trussell Trust. Liam Frost, Slow Readers Club, The Farm and the Joe Duddell Orchestra have all been confirmed to play on the night. Football legends Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher will be hosting alongside Chris Hawkins from 6 Music.