On 25th April 1979 The Distractions played at Bowden Vale Youth Club with support from Private Sector. This was just a month after Joy Division more famously played the club in Altrincham, South Manchester [1]. Around the same time The Distractions also played at Eric's in Liverpool [2] (note the flier), a venue more closely associated with Occultation label mates, The Wild Swans. These reviews of the gigs come from City Fun, courtesy of the City Fun Exhibition at the Manchester District Music Archive [3]. The first one laments the lack of The Only Ones, who of course, ended up supplying the drummer for The Distractions' latest album, the legendary Mike Kellie!
The Distractions
First saw them at Manchester Poly R.A.R. [Rock Against Racism] gig. Didn't pay much attention then as I was totally pissed off about the lack of Only Ones (who make fucking brilliant records). Very good at Bowden. The audience shuffled meekly towards the stage during the first number under instructions from the singer. Afraid I don't know the names of any of their numbers but they were all good punk/pop sounds. "I love Valerie but Valerie loves you!" (Valerie). Great. Sound good and I like the unusual tone of the singer. Particularly enjoyed the rather distant but clearly audible sound of the backing vocals. Look forward to seeing and hearing them again.
Nicky.
THE DISTRACTIONS - Eric's and Bowden Vale.
Eric's gig the best in a while, people dace all over, it's pop music The Distractions way. And the Bowden Vale "where's the drumer" panic, it's alright he's just got here. Don't
know what to make... the audience... some dancing does on, the band play
encores Waiting For My Man and then we go home.
Andy Zero
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