CityLife

Alfie frontman's Salford session

WHAT'S it all about Alfie? It's a good question, and even though Alfie split up nearly two years ago, there's still many a Manc music follower who'll shed a mournful tear when they reminisce about the deceased yet still brilliant folk-popsters.

But the good news is that there IS life after Alfie. As CityLife readers will have read a few weeks ago, guitarist Ian Smith has started a new band, The Beep Seals, who are currently frying minds with their delirious psych-pop, as we speak.

And how about our personal fave, ex-Alfie frontman, dreamboat Lee Gorton (pictured)? Well, he now has a new incarnation as a music promoter/svengali, and his top-notch club night, Red Bricks, is the talk of the alt-pop/folk world.

Big Hands

This weekend marks a year since it first started in tiny bar Big Hands and, to celebrate, they're upping sticks to Salford's Islington Mill to stage the sort of lavish birthday party even Elton John would be envious of.

Confirmed bands include: Japanese psych-folk legends Ghost, The Beep Seals, The Draytones, The Brian Jacket Letdown, John Stammers, Magic Arm plus many more (visit myspace.com/downattheredbricks for more details).

With Man United winning the double (obviously) and Red Bricks' first birthday, it's a weekend of Manc celebrations all round.

Red Bricks takes place on Sunday, May 20. (from 3pm), Islington Mill Studios, James Street, Salford, £10.