Northside

Northside is a British alternative rock band formed in 1988 in Manchester, England. The band emerged during the late '80s Madchester scene, which was characterized by a fusion of rock, dance, and psychedelia. Their debut release, the EP 'Northside' in 1990, gained them critical acclaim and helped establish their presence in the music scene. The band's style incorporated elements of baggy, a genre that combined rock and dance music, which was popular in the UK during the early '90s. Despite their initial success, including the hit single 'Shall We Take a Trip?', Northside faced challenges with lineup changes and a shifting musical landscape. The band released their debut album 'Chicken Rhythms' in 1991, which included several popular tracks but did not achieve the same level of success as their earlier singles. They disbanded in the mid-1990s but reformed in the 2010s, continuing to perform and release new material.

Northside's music has been influenced by a variety of genres and artists, including the Manchester music scene of the late '80s and early '90s, particularly bands like The Stone Roses and Happy Mondays. They drew from the psychedelic rock of the '60s, the punk rock movement, and the dance music culture that permeated Manchester at the time. Other notable influences include the sounds of Madchester, as well as artists such as The Beatles and The Smiths, who shaped the musical landscape of the region. The band's eclectic sound reflects a blend of rock, pop, and electronic music, showcasing their diverse musical inspirations.

Northside is known for their energetic live performances and distinctive style, which combines elements of rock with dance music influences. Their single 'Shall We Take a Trip?' reached number 18 on the UK Singles Chart in 1990. The band's debut album 'Chicken Rhythms' was released in 1991 and featured a mix of upbeat tracks and more introspective songs. They have undergone several lineup changes since their formation, with founding members including guitarist and vocalist Dermo and bassist Gaz. The band briefly reunited in 2002 for a series of performances and again in the 2010s, continuing to attract a loyal fan base.

Northside played a pivotal role in the Madchester movement, which significantly influenced the British music scene of the early '90s. Their unique blend of rock and dance music contributed to the genre's popularity and helped pave the way for other bands exploring similar sounds. Northside's music and style resonated with a generation, showcasing the vibrant cultural landscape of Manchester during this period. Their influence can be seen in later bands that embraced the fusion of rock and electronic elements, as well as in the ongoing legacy of the Madchester scene.

Northside has not received major music awards, but they are regarded as a significant band within the Madchester scene and have gained a cult following over the years. Their influence on the genre and the Manchester music scene is often acknowledged in retrospectives and discussions about the era.

Northside has performed covers of various songs during their live shows, often adding their distinctive style to classic tracks. They have covered songs by bands from the Madchester scene and other influential artists, but specific recordings of these covers are not widely documented.