As you all know (because we keep telling you, because we’re so excited about it) we’ve been building an archive to commemorate 20 years of SFTOC, and all your lovely memories. Well, while we were watching the images and ephemera pour in, we noticed someone was particularly busy uploading ticket stubs and posters. It seemed as though that person could’ve been to every single Sounds…

That person was Deb.

We reached out for comment.

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Q. We’ve heard rumours you’ve been to every single Sounds From The Other City… Can you confirm or deny?

A. Yes, I’ve been to every one 🙂

Q. What was your favourite year at SFTOC, and what made it so memorable?

A. The first one was definitely a good one because we saw it mentioned in the MEN a couple of weeks before, came on spec, had no time to listen to any of the bands in advance, had a great time and came back for more and more. The Kings Arms did a great veggy roast dinner as well. 2011 was a lovely hot year and we spent a lot of time on the old Pint Pot balcony catching up with friends.

Q. What’s your funniest Sounds story or memory?

A. Last year (2024) we seemed to spend a lot of time whizzing up and down Chapel Street/The Crescent between venues on Lime scooters. Two old people on scooters seemed to turn heads. Other than that, the early years where pub regulars were allowed in free of charge while the bands were on created some amusing scenarios…

Q. Who have the stand-out acts or performances been throughout the years?

A. Answering Machine, Cherry Ghost, Liz Green, Jo Rose, Jesca Hoop, Pins, Lovely Eggs, and loads more!

Q. What’s been the best music discovery you’ve made at Sounds?

A. Probably working out which promoters host the music I like & keeping an eye out for other gigs that they put on round the cities. Blowout were already a favourite promoter in the early days so we made a beeline for their venue. Currently Hey! Manchester and Now Wave always provide great stuff.

Q. What’s your favourite SFTOC venue, past or present?

A. Either Kings Arms or Sacred Trinity. Currently, probably St Phil’s.

Q. Which SFTOC year had your favourite design/poster/ticket?

A. 2013 – the one with the mad cat!

Q. You’ve found a crisp twenty pound note on the floor outside Chung’s Chippy. What’s your order?

A. Sorry Chungs, it would be several portions of the spinach and chickpea curry that was served up in the Salford Arms when Lovely Eggs were on (2012). I’ve been trying to recreate it ever since. Looking forward to Bundobust this year!

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Thank you to Deb for the interview. No-one can beat her, but can you match her? Get in touch!

SFTOC x