Let's Talk Music at CUPRA City Garage

There’s a lot of talk about supporting emerging talent in Manchester. The CUPRA City Garage will be spending its first anniversary in the city doing just that.

On 14 May, CUPRA marks its first year in the city with ‘Let’s Talk Music’, a one-off event that doubles as both a celebration and a reset. It also coincides with the 30th episode of CUPRA FM, their ongoing live music platform that’s quietly hosted everything from grassroots selectors to globally recognised names.

The focus here is clear. Discovery, connection, and giving new artists a way in. The space is being opened up to musicians, DJs, promoters and anyone working across the city’s creative scene, with the aim of shaping what comes next.

Leading the lineup is SALO, a Manchester artist whose sound sits somewhere between neo soul, jazz and blues, carried by a voice that’s already turning heads locally. It’s the kind of booking that feels intentional. Not just who’s hot, but who’s next.

Alongside her, Pola & Bryson bring a very different energy. The drum and bass duo are known for sets that balance emotion with impact, the kind that can switch from introspective to full dancefloor pressure without losing control. It adds weight to the night without losing the intimacy.

Holding it all together is Strategy, one of the city’s most respected voices, whose presence gives the whole thing a sense of grounding. This isn’t a parachuted lineup. It’s rooted in Manchester.

Capacity is capped at just 200, so it leans more towards a room of people who are there for a reason, rather than a big open party. The idea is simple. Turn up, meet people, and see where it leads.

Over the past year, CUPRA City Garage has quietly positioned itself as more than just a branded space, hosting over 200 events that sit somewhere between music, culture and community. This feels like the point where it properly leans into that identity.

Things start from 7pm, and if this is anything to go by, year two looks a lot more collaborative.