A Storm in Ancoats: A brief introduction to Manchesters own boys Lowline.

• 26th Feb 2008

Manchester's 4 piece Lowline (L) have been busy boys indeed. Aside from changing their name from Lowlife, they’ve crafted, shaped and created a sound so impressive that Owen Morris himself got them recording at his own expense, a sound so alluring that a certain Nick McCabe now finds himself enchanted and often tags along and contributes to their workload.

They’ve got a debut single on the way, riding the crashing river of acclaim that’s flowing all around them as it spews relentlessly from sources such as Xfm, NME and now yours truly, who honestly can’t wait to get sick of hearing Lowline on the radio. And make no mistake; they deserve their generous share of airplay.

In light of the frenzy they’re stirring at each of their dynamic live shows and the undeniable following that’s building in anticipation of that all important debut LP, could they be the next big thing? Mike, Andy, Sam and Robbie kindly took some time out to answer a few questions and to give us an insight into their world…

AS: What’s the last gig/concert you went to?
L: Shack at the Manchester Academy 4. What a top night… They’re a quality band with a timeless sound.

AS: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
L: Primal Scream, Joy Division, My Bloody Valentine, The Chameleons, The Jesus & Mary Chain, The Verve, Neu & Black Rebel Motorcycle Club to name a few.

AS: Were/are you aware of your escalating popularity?
L: Yes, but only very recently when we put a gig on at the Kings Arms in Salford. Just us playing and it was too full for everyone to get in.

AS: Where do you most enjoy playing live?
L: The best place we’ve played is probably the London Astoria with Happy Mondays. The massive sound system compliments our big sound. Shame they’re pulling it down for a fucking mono-rail!

AS: What makes you better than everyone else?
L: Because we’re making music that’s different from anything else that’s around at the moment. We have the bollocks to try something new whilst still creating quality music. I wouldn’t say we are better than everyone though, 99% maybe!

AS: What are you listening to right now?
L: ‘In Rainbows’ by Radiohead is the one of the best new albums we’ve heard in a while. It would be rare for us all to be listening to tunes together and not play the Chameleons. They’re a timeless Manc’ band and one of our biggest influences.

AS: Any career highs or lows you care to share?
L: Recording with Owen Morris (Verve/Oasis/New Order) was a highlight, not only because of his outstanding recordings, but also the fact that he fully funded the sessions just because he liked the band so much, true gentleman. Also playing along side Nick McCabe (Verve) at one of our warehouse gigs, that was a high point. He’s a good mate and a master at what he does.

AS: Do you enjoy playing live or are you more at home in a studio?
L: We’ve always felt at home in the studio but we’re at our strongest playing live. There’s nothing better than getting up on stage and playing our tunes to people. There is always an electrifying vibe at our gigs.

AS: Any upcoming music / bands worth keeping an eye on that are destined for greatness?
L: Exit Calm: They’re all very talented lads who play music with a massive wall of ambient sound, similar to Verve. Everyone definitely needs to see them live. The detail of their music is astonishing, especially Robs guitar sounds. Its amazing how one guitarist can make so many different noises all at the same time. He is probably the best unsigned guitarist in the country.

AS: Who is the main driving force or do you work as a team?
L: We all play an important part. We have a democratic approach to writing songs and all have something definitive to put forward. Unlike so many bands, we’re 4 individuals, each with a unique style. We’re always pushing ourselves to get the best out of our instruments.

AS: Does complaining accomplish anything?
L: Complaining is for the weak. Roll with the punches and fucking get on with it!

AS: Thanks for taking time out guys, now get cracking with that LP, SCHNELL!

‘Monitors’ is their forthcoming debut single and it’s released March 17th on 1-2-3-4 records.

For further info, please visit link

For further info on Exit Calm (who are rocking the same boat) visit link