Junction 47
By Dave SugdenThere's going to be a sequel! The charity CD will launch this year's CD at Leeds newest venue The Platform
When record label Blunt combined the creative resources of Leeds musicians and bands last year the result was a spectacular community-based charity project called Junction 47. The acclaimed compilation CD boasted thirty-five tracks from all sections of the diverse music scene and the plaudits that followed for the Millennium Commission-backed record reflected the quality and depth of musical talent within the thriving Yorkshire city.
No band was too big and while popular Leeds sons Utah Saints commissioned a track for the double-CD release, over £2,000 was handed to St Gemma's and Wheatfields hospices.
Junction 47 was the brainchild of Blunt Monkey founder Mido, who explains the inspiration behind the project: "The original concept was aimed to compliment the Bright Young Things CDs. It became apparent that there were quite a few bright old sparks flying around the music scene that deserved the same opportunities but weren't getting them."
"I think it gave the scene a chance to shout its presence a little louder."
One year on and plans are already at advanced stages for Junction 47 II. With the city positively buzzing following intensive industry attention that has seen the likes of The Music, Parva, The Somatics and Star Bodixa sign significant recording contracts, there is little doubt that Leeds has more to offer. Much more.
"The number of calls from A&R scouts to Leeds venues is going through the roof, as is the number of local acts being picked up by labels as a result. Obviously this was a process that was already developing, but Junction 47 was another cog in the big wheel that has eventually managed to turn things around."
Thursday will welcome the official launch party for this years project, a co-hosted event with Leeds newest live music venue The Platform. Their similar approaches to showcasing the vibrant local music scene meant that the Corn Exchange's basement venue was the ideal host.
Providing the music backdrop to the party atmosphere are recent Beggars Banquet indie rock signings Parva who arrive fresh from the news of their inclusion a week later at Leeds Carling Weekend Festival. Wrath Records' Galitza and Blunt Monkey's very own ska favourites Mr Shiraz provide quality and diversity to the event, while the soulful sounds of The Bluefoot Project seal an amazing line up for live music fans.
The free party is open to all over 16s and organisers are even providing fans with the chance of winning up to five pairs of free tickets to Leeds Carling Weekend Festival.
Junction 47 and The Platform provide an ideal opportunity to witness the Leeds music scene at its best and as Mido concludes, the CD sequel is a must for every collection:
"There will be a few big names on the finished CD that might surprise a few people!"
