In the era of the Hacienda nightclub’s peak, a small mourning shop turned chippie called Pices that existed around the corner from Eastern Bloc Records would soon become the mecca of music in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Initially a humble cafe, Night and Day soon started to take over the live music space left open by the chaotic fall of the Hacienda. Now over 30 years later it stands as one of many iconic music venues along Oldham Street but it continues to hold a special part of Manchester music lovers’ hearts.
Sadly, the current media focus and conversation around the bar come from the controversial noise complaints they have received dating back to 2014. You’d think it would be expected that a music venue existing since 1991 would produce some form of noise but according to residents in Manchester’s most lively quarter, this was a major surprise. The controversy prompted The Music Venue Trust to start a campaign calling for a review of noise abatement legislation for UK venues, a significant step in the direction of supporting the invaluable independent, small music industry. This was heightened in 2021 following the reopening of Night and Day after the pandemic and along with the return of live music came the apparent shock of ... noise.
Throughout this, Night and Day continued to be shown love by famous Manchester artists like Elbow, The Charlatans and Johnny Marr, highlighting the venue's historical prominence within the city’s scene. Over their run, Night and Day has been at the beginning of many famous musicians' careers, including Artic Monkeys, Courteeners, The Enemy and Manic Street Preachers. Due to this, it's become the place to see the next big thing before they’re selling out expensive arenas - even more of a reason to come down for GABS’s gig on the 7th, you never know where they’ll end up!
I’ve personally spent a bit too much time (and money) at Night and Day over the last two years, and have seen a wide variety of artists. Last Monday I caught the start of Independent Venue Week watching GABS’ favourite alumni Pyncher headlining along with scene locals Slap Rash and The Accident Group. Packing out the venue with funky new songs at the beginning of a week specifically designed to celebrate independent artists, Pyncher are among a new generation propelling upwards.
Night and Day represent more than just a music venue, but are a symbol of the local music scene that needs to be protected and the importance of supporting small artists who are often ignored. Sign their petition to keep the venue going and make sure to come along to the GABS gig with Drivers, Plaster, Buffee and Monday Moonchild on Tuesday!
