Manchester's music scene is going out with a bang to close the season

We're not ones to lament the end of a season, especially with summer around the corner, but there's a bittersweet feel to May.

Sure, the days are getting long, temperatures are rising, and we're all jetting off for a break, but it also means festivals are on the way. That's good news, and bad.

The good news is we can all stomp off to some godforsaken muddy field in an ancient shire, and see some of the best acts in the biz. The bad news is that it means gigging season is over - or at least the first half is.

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Venues and promoters often talk about one gig season lasting from February to May, and a second one comes in from September to November. The reason why is quite simple.

In the summer, the whole industry is travelling from festival to festival, so there's not much appetite for a stop in a basement when it's 28C outside and light until 9pm. In December, everyone is doing Christmassy things, and in January, everyone is skint.

So, with fewer gigs in Manchester coming up, this is the final hurrah of the spring/summer show season - and at least we're going out on a high. We've got the usual mix new hopefuls coming through, plus some bona fide legends and groups about to hit the top of their game.

Strap in.

Are you small band playing a show? Fancy being featured in the MEN? Email ethan.davies@reachplc.com with details of your gig, and a bit about yourselves, to be considered for a gig guide.

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