Easter weekend, one of the busiest of the year. With so much stuff going on it’s been difficult to compile a top 5 but here’s where’s good if you aint sat at home scoffing Easter eggs. 4 day weekend, WOO HOO!
1. Carl Cox & Friends At The Albert Hall
This year Carl Cox celebrates 25 years in the game and, having achieved pretty much everything you can in the scene, he defines the term Superstar DJ. From his beginnings in the hardcore scene, he has dabbled in many of the genres that make modern clubbing what it is today. This Friday sees him touching down at The Albert Hall for a house, techno and all out tear up of goodness, maybe even a Coxy Conga if you are lucky. Also on the bill is star in the making is Bristol’s Eats Everything. This is the big shout for me this weekend, I’ll be hanging over the balcony shouting “COXXXXXXY” at the top of my voice for most of the night so get us a pint if you see us. Hope to see you there.
2. Kaluki & Under Present Jackmaster
Jackmaster will be at Gorilla on Sunday night for more house and techno, with a bit of disco thrown in this time. Having performed at some of the world’s most famous venues, his sets have gained a reputation of bursting new energy levels and containing an element of surprise which keeps even the biggest chin stroker on their toes. Support comes in the form of Pirate Copy, Pete Zorba and Under DJs. They have the venue open till 4 on Sunday night so if you fancy a boogie, get down.
3. Hit & Run Easter Special with Joker and Sh?m
Mint Lounge, Easter special, NAUGHTY! Hit & Run will be bouncing around the Northern Quarter on Thursday night as they bring Joker back to Manchester for the first time in over a year (if my ever dissolving memory serves me correct). Also, Mancunian debutant Sh?m is on hand with some new styles to get you vibing. Hit & Run residents Chimpo, Rich Reason and Jonny Opo complete a bill that takes a very rowdy approach to Hip-hop, Grime, Dubstep, Garage, Trap and Drum N Bass.
4. Grand Theft Audio 1st Birthday
Time seems to fly by these days and this 1st Birthday party has come round a bit too quick for my liking. The decaying Antwerp Mansion hosts the celebrations as the Grand Theft Audio label pops open the champagne after a long hard 12 months of graft. Guests include The Prototypes who add to the party with their album launch. With other headline performances coming from modern jungle dons Serial Killaz and Bladerunner, this promises to be a weighty affair. Just make sure you bring your own bog roll and don’t wear your Sunday best as the venue is in need of a serious makeover.
5. Bedrock: John Digweed (4 hour set)
To be honest, I nearly missed this one out, it just caught my eye at the last minute. Gorilla, again coming up with goods on Saturday as they introduce another legend of electronic music, John Digweed. A 4 hour special is on the cards as he tears up yet another dance floor with Jemmy in support. This is definitely worth checking, even with a steep door tax, have fun.
