Toolshed @ Bridgewater Hall, Manchester

by Simon Found Sounds

Having earned his place in the annals of dance music with the revered 808 State, Graham Massey has spent the last few years focusing on an entirely different project. One that stems more from a result of his record collection and an open invitation to jam at Manchester's Night & Day Cafe rather than any need to sate the dancefloor. With some 13 band members in tow, including a seven-strong horn back line, three drummers and Homelife's Paddy Steer on electric and upright bass, the Toolshed Orchestra is a sight to behold.

So after the delightful if not Victoria Woodesque three minute pop offerings of Badly Drawn Boy-in-waiting Aiden Smith, it was the turn of the diminutive Massey to take the stage of the sumptuous Bridgewater Hall, usually the reserve of shall we say 'the more reserved' musical stylings. I say reserved as tonight Toolshed blow the roof off, leaving those waiting for the comparatively mainstream headliner Badly Drawn Boy in a cross state of shock, bemusement and aural confusion.

With a thunderous opener Toolshed stake their claim immediately, turning in pristine replications of their latest material including a manic interpretation of John McLaughlin's 'Marbles' and the angular Germanic stylings of original pieces like 'Nananananaanaa'. Joined on stage by Seaming To, the Toolshed theatrics are upped by her note-perfect style that falls between the operatic and heartfelt blues with Massey contributing with deft touches on guitar, alto sax and keys.

A cross between electronically enhanced rock and jazz with snatches of world music maybe, but alongside Jaga Jazzist and Herbert's Big Band explorations proof that the 'live' dance music wheel is turning again and thankfully not eschewing from the limelight due to cost or logistics. Long may this trend continue.