August Gigs Round–Up

AUGUST looks set to be a stonker when it comes to this month’s gigs with artists from all over the globe playing to the eardrums of Manchester.

Arcade FireFor one night only - their only confirmed northern appearance - the MEN welcomes Canadian husband and wife duo Arcade Fire along with their five-piece band on Wed 31 August. The BRIT award winners return this summer following the success of their latest album The Suburbs. It was 2007 when the band last graced our stages and with the support of Noah and the Whale's dulcet tones, the show looks set to be a sell out. Tickets available from the MEN box office (£30).

Following rescheduling due to clashes, emo-rock band Taking Back Sunday return on Weds 24 August at the Manchester Academy. Academy One looks set to be jam packed with fans singing along to the likes of 'Cute without the E' and the band’s other top hits. Original tickets are still valid, alternatively they can be bought from the Academy box office (£16.50).

Shonen KnifeOver at The Deaf Institute, Sat 13 August sees Shonen Knife headlining, the all-girl Japanese punk band. They've come a long way from supporting Nirvana, and with nineteen albums, they definitely won't be lost for something to sing (advance tickets £10). And from across the pond, American singer, Washed Out stars on Mon 8 August, supported by Star Slinger. The synth-pop act released his debut album, Within and Without, earlier this month. (Advance tickets £7.50).

Band on the Wall is awash with musical talent this August. Reggae artists Queen Ifrica and Tony Rebel play Thurs 11 August teaming reggae with dancehall for the double bill (tickets £20). Thurs 18 August is the FMS Indie Showcase featuring Suzuki Method, Times New Romans, No Flash and China White AKA Manchester and Salford's hottest up and coming indie artists. (Tickets £5). For more artists visit http://bandonthewall.org/events

Queen IfricaMike Fantastic are playing Moho Live Sat 27 August, supported by Just Me Again and other local acts. The band auditioned for Britain's Got Talent last year and have performed with Olly Murs, Stavros Flatley and The Overtones. Tickets are standing only £10.

In keeping with the Northern Quarter, Night & Day Café has a whole host of acts lined up, American rock 'n' roll artist Eddie Spaghetti plays Tues 2 August (£8). An evening of punk and passion is celebrated with Black Market Serotonin, Kill the Doctor, Filthy Angels and We Come in Pieces (tickets £5). Something a little easier on the ears is folk-rock artist Elliot Morris and Jack and Gill's Daughter who play Tue 30 August (£5). Finally next -door neighbours, Dry Bar, are holding an Acoustic Revolution on Tue 9 August (Tickets £2).