Though Manchester's contribution to the history of British music is well documented, many of the defining events actually happened in the outlying towns and cities that make up the urban conurbation sprawl that is modern Manchester.

Rockin' Rochdale, an exhibition in the excellent new Touchstones Gallery in Rochdale's centre, highlights the variety of ways the Dale has itself contributed to Manchester's rich musical heritage - from the brass and big band eras through Gracie Fields and Deeply Vale to Tractor and Cargo Studios.

Several hundred guests, including members of Tractor, Wilful Damage and Fast Cars, an appearance by local producer / engineer John Brierley and guitar maker extraordinaire Brian Eastwood, attended the preview last week (20 October 2005) at which the Lord Mayor of Rochdale formally opened the exhibition - assisted by Milnrow resident rocker Clint Boon with a plea that the hallowed ground of nearby Cargo Studios (vacant for several years) be purchased by Rochdale Council as a permenant space. Well, somebody should.

Photo gallery.

The exhibition continues until 23 April 2006
www.rochdale.gov.uk/touchstones

Rochdale bands Tractor, Pie and Wilful Damage play a one-off celebration at the Gracie Fields Theatre on Friday 2 December 2005.

--

Thanks to OMMCR and Chris Hewitt.

- - - -