It takes all sorts to be successful in the music business; some get by with a mediocre voice and average performance with exceptional lyrics to carry them, with others it’s all about the show. Every now and then though you get reminded that what counts most is the music. Tonight was one of those nights when you couldn’t help but be touched by music and song so exquisitely performed that a full room stands in rapt silence.

Billed as "Three days of your new favourite bands, you just don't know it yet", In The City takes over Manchester city centre with the music's brightest and best debating the future of the industry during the day and fans and industry taking to the streets by night to check out the bands. The standard of the bands playing was higher than ever and I've come away with a list of bands I want to see again as long as my arm!

Well it's looking good if Friday night was anything to go by anyway. I was in Sale, Manchester at Bar Amp for Designer Mag's tenth All Ages gig. The idea of the all ages gigs is to give under 18's a taste of live music and on this performance it's a taste they love!

News from a trip to Liverpool's Korova Bar to see Polly Mackey, The Verdict, Parka and Alexis Blue