Aiming High after triumphant return

MUSIC EXTRA: THE High frontman John Matthews has got the music bug back and has been working on new material with recently-revived early-1990s favourites.

A former pupil of The Radclyffe School in Chadderton, Matthews led The High to a triumphant return with a brilliant set at the Manchester Academy Gigantic Indie All-Dayer at the end of May.

That was the band’s first high-profile gig in more than 20 years since their heyday back when the “Madchester” scene was at its peak.

The response to The High’s return has been ultra-positive, with Matthews planning more outings very soon for himself, original lead guitarist Andy Couzens, drummer Jack Couzens, bassist Tony Meehan and keyboard ace Richard Thomas.

Matthews said: “We’re definitely going to be playing at the Academy again in December, but we’re hoping to be out playing a few more gigs before then. It felt great to be back on stage at the Gigantic festival. There was a great reaction, and there has been ever since.”

The High formed in 1989 and was signed by London Records after one gig, a support slot at the Inspiral Carpets’ Ritz show in Manchester.

One album, “Somewhere Soon”, and three minor single hits came before the band called it a day in 1993.



A NIGHT of non-stop dancing is in prospect for soul music lovers on Saturday as this column’s sponsor — Black Sofa Records — presents “Ain’t Nothing But a House Party” at Jackson’s Pit, Oldham (9pm-3am).

Two popular DJs “Big Shed” and Andy Calder — will offer dance music from four decades, and could be the first of a regular session.