Irked live at Retro Bar, Manchester, as part of Pretty on the Inside Pod’s night

I might shoot a lot of gigs but it’s been ages since I went to a DIY punk show. Interest was defo piqued then when I saw Irked were playing in Manchester again, and as part of a real lo-fi punk lineup. Throw in the iconic Retro Bar as a venue and an affordable £10 cover and I was IN.

Did I mention there were 4 bands on the bill too? Absolute bargain!

SCHMOO

First up were local young punks SCHMOO. This was their penultimate gig- by the time you read this they will have retired. (By that I assume they’re renaming/adapting/evolving.) SCHMOO were loud and energetic, exactly what you want to open, and set a raucous tone. The band also had to dash after their set as they were all in work the next morning. Ah to be young and working retail again… (no ta.)

The Rhetoric

The Rhetoric were up next, a three piece from South Wales. As a millennial punk rocker I definitely feel a kinship with these. It was also only their 3rd gig! You can see the foundations of a great band here that will be unearthed as they play more gigs – but some songs, like one about Bruce Bogtrotter, show they have the chops. They also finished with an entirely age-appropriate Ace of Base cover.

Irked

Next up were the band become my favourite live act of the year, Irked. I saw the Newcastle group open at New Century Hall in April, but they (and I) were much more comfortable at a smaller venue that they could then entirely take over! Frontwoman Helen continues to kick every type of ass – vocally, stage-presence-ally, roaming-around-venue-ally. I had my flash ready for it this time at least!

Blagged

Headliners on the night were Blagged, fresh from touring Europe. They make more noise than you’d expect (in a good way) and also really reminded me sonically of Tsunami Bomb (in a good way). Great headliners, loads of energy, smashing way to end a brilliant show. I hope Pretty on the Inside take over Retro again soon!