Leave The Capital: A History of Manchester Music in 13 Recordings

When British bands captivated the world in the mid-1960s, all eyes turned to London. Even though the most successful of these groups originated from England's North West, for the USA, London was perceived as the wellspring of these exciting new sounds. And in many respects, it was; The Beatles, The Hollies, and Herman's Hermits all recorded their hits with London-based producers, for London-based companies, in London studios. This remained the norm until four Mancunian musicians recognised the potential of recording outside the capital.

Defying conventional wisdom, they chose to reinvest their hard-earned money into the city they loved by establishing proper recording facilities. Eric Stewart of The Mindbenders and the prolific songwriter Graham Gouldman created Strawberry Studios, while Keith Hopwood and Derek Leckenby of Herman's Hermits founded Pluto. Together, they gave Manchester a distinct voice and catalysed a musical revolution defined by its rejection of the capital.

This book recounts the story of Manchester music through the lens of these two studios' pivotal recordings. Naturally, the narrative encompasses The Smiths, Joy Division, The Fall, and The Stone Roses. However, it is equally the story of 'Bus Stop,' 'East West,' and 'I'm Not in Love.' It's the tale of the Manchester attitude, exemplified by L.S. Lowry and later by Brian and Michael, and how that attitude influenced The Clash and Neil Sedaka. Above all, it is the story of music that could only have been made in Manchester.