NOW that the festival season is over and we return to the routine music scene it’s a good time to reflect on Warrington’s venues and how they are developing for the musicians of the town.
I ask the question “Is Warrington the next major music town?” – I’m bound to say yes because I live here , but here’s the facts.
1. Warrington hosts a major music festival – The Neighbourhood Weekender . Ok, there’s no camping but that’s only because it lies in a residential area.
2. Warrington (well nearby Daresbury) hosts Creamfields, another huge event for dance lovers and they come far and wide!
3. Warrington has the prestigious Parr Hall which has seen many headliners perform there and the Pyramid Arts Centre next door – a more contemporary venue for grassroots bands.
There have also been many excellent festivals over the summer including Glastonferry, Cheesefields, Crosfest, Woodfest, Pickfest and many other smaller arts festivals. I have noted many pubs and clubs returning to live music now as the days of Karaoke fade into the distance, and the range of talent is phenomenal – from popular Tribute acts, Irish, Banjo, Ukulele, Country, Rock, Indie, Metal and Soul being performed by Soloists, Duets and Bands of all sizes. Furthermore, on the 20th October I will be reviewing the welcome return of the Warrington Blues Club at the Grappenhall Community Centre which closed back in 2010.
Let’s not forget that the town and surrounding villages host several open mic nights throughout the week. In fact, there are so many I haven’t visited them all yet, but in the town centre, you will find some very well-organised nights, three of which are hosted by the talented local singer-songwriter Vicky Williams who is such a hard worker and offers positive encouragement to the ‘shy and retiring’ first timer. Vicky’s nights are at Austins Bar ( WA11HG) every Thursday night from 7.30 – 11 pm, Pasha Lounge (WA12NL) on the last Friday of every month 8pm – 1am , and Pashas again every other Sunday for a session between 4-7 pm when the kids are welcome as well. Just to keep Vicky on her toes she also hosts the open mic at The Peacock ( WA37PG) in Birchwood every Tuesday between 8-11pm!
However, If you are a bit more experienced and are searching for somewhere to sharpen up your skills you can always pop along to The Odyssey Bar ( WA11DN ) every Thursday between 8-11 pm where you will find the open mic night hosted by exuberant local musician Greg Dixon – frontman of his band ‘Pray for Mojo’. Watch out for other events hosted by Greg as well and don’t be shy to ask him anything – he is extremely helpful and very encouraging.
Finally, with access to the town from all directions and two train stations, plenty of eateries and bars in the town of various types, is Warrington experiencing, and perhaps leading, a live music revival after the heady days of Mr Smiths and Hit Man and Her?
Come along and find out folks!
Vicky Williams
Mud and rain fail to dampen spirits at Creamfields music festival
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