Friday, May 7, 2010

Student friendly

Pals of mine who were fans of The Distractions at the time were students; one an obsessed Factory (and pretty much every other significant indie label as well) aficionado, the other a friend of the band. At times it does seem like The Distractions' fan base consisted of their label mates, the gushing music press and students. Good job as The Distractions plied their trade around the university circuit like all budding bands worth their salt. Thanks to Dave from The Zans who sent us this flier from the band's 28th March 1981 gig at Leicester Polytechnic with the Hit Men, Zanathus (now The Zans) and Stress, as well as details of several extra local dates for our gigography - Hazel Grove Youth Club, Bowden Vale Club and Stockport College.


The Distractions at Leicester Polytechnic, 28th March 1981.


We've also been lucky enough to hear a recording of The Distractions' gig at Newcastle University on 17th March 1980, supported by The Members. An advert for the event in City Fun magazine shows some cracking old venues that hosted bands of the day in Manchester and further afield - Britons Protection, Portland Bars, Russell Club, Cyprus Tavern... St. Austell.


The Distractions at Newcastle University, 17th March 1981. (c) MDMArchive.


Even the other flier we've come across on the Manchester District Music Archive, for the 1978 gig at the New Electric Circus in Collyhurst just north of the city centre, mentions the student discount on offer.


The Distractions at the New Electric Circus, 1978. (c) MDMArchive.



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