Party time... after 30 years of Fall-outs
HE'S been referred to as one of the most miserable men in the music business, but The Fall's Mark E Smith celebrates an unlikely 30 years of music-making on June 10. Manchester's legendary purveyors of the punk spirit first appeared on an unsuspecting music scene in 1976, and his nasal tones and knowing scowl have lasted longer than most. He may be the only original member of the band left but even his recent triumphant American tour has not been without controversy. He sacked the entire band half way through the tour and Smith was forced to recruit members of another act to fulfil the Fall's obligations. Smith, inset, is now bringing the new band he recruited in the USA to play his 30th anniversary gig in Manchester on June 10 - providing he doesn't sack them first. New Century Hall in Corporation Street will host the historic event and don't be surprised to see many of Manchester's music glitterati at the bash. Alan Wise, part of The Fall's management team, tells me: "We are NOT announcing the names of the famous guests or they will all want paying thousands." But my sources indicate you can probably expect DJ sets from certain members of New Order, as well as cameo appearances from assorted members of Manchester's rich music tapestry - step forward Buzzcocks, Pete Shelley and the gang. The 'new' Fall are Mark E Smith's Circus animals - his latest creation. And they'll be playing songs from their new album on the night. There will also be a party downstairs at midnight for the usual vampires and some Fall fans and the Big Issue vendors, who Smith invited personally. Dougie James, the other half of the management team with Alan Wise, and whose son Ryan plays Jason Grimshaw in Coronation Street - will host the night.Published: Thu, 25 May, 2006
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