Lancaster’s latest pop sensation kicks off monthly music showcase

Grace Monaco’s dreamy alt-pop has generated comparisons with Grimes and Pink Pantheress and gig-goers will be able to make their own mind up when she headlines an exciting night of free music in the upstairs room from 7.30pm this Friday (September 26).

Her appearance comes as the co-op, homeless since 2018, continues to fundraise towards a return to its non-profit rehearsal facility, recording studio and music space on Lodge Street, which has been undergoing major repairs.

Grace’s most recent EP, launched at the fabulous Forty Five Records in Lancaster, picked up enthusiastic support from BBC Introducing and BBC 6Music. After a hiatus from the live stage, her return is hotly anticipated.

Online music and culture magazine God Is In the TV swooned over her ‘fantastical point of view’ and the way she brought something fresh, witty, and singular to the table.

A very limited special edition 7” vinyl will be available on the night featuring two tracks from Grace’s EP.

Second on the bill are Lancaster-based indie rock/pop four-piece, Hellen and the Mellons.

Founded in the city’s thriving pub music scene, the band have become regulars all over town with performances at the Melodrome and Lancaster Music Festival.

Hellen Kelly is a dedicated songsmith inspired by choppy relationships, people with stories to tell, and the spectrum of emotions that come with being flung into the world.

The Mellons comprise some of Lancaster’s finest musicians in the shape of Gavin Neil, Alex Jackson and Sol Grey, who also perform in Co-op alumni bands Hummus and Filthy Laugh.

They are a charismatic bunch of rock ‘n’ rollers who will get the crowd dancing, laughing and crying. There is bound to be a funky, folky and rocky song to sweep everyone away.

Last, but by no means least, is electronica wizard, Go Mercy. Lancaster-based live electronic solo performer and producer Jonny, aka Go Mercy, is inspired by the boundary-pushing sounds of The Chemical Brothers, Moby, Leftfield, and Jean-Michel Jarre.

Blending driving rhythms with atmospheric soundscapes, Go Mercy crafts music that bridges classic electronica with a modern edge.

A regular on the city’s thriving electronic scene, most notably with a host of performances at the legendary Hymns for Robots events, Jonny has become renowned for his captivating live performances. It’s the perfect way to kick off the evening.

Holly Blackwell, music co-op director, and one-half of local legends The Lovely Eggs, said: “As the darker nights return, it’s easy to feel a little deflated by the prospect of winter looming, but this fabulous line-up should be enough to warm even the coolest cockles.

“We have some incredible musical talent coming out of Lancaster at the moment, and this is a great chance to see another really exciting, varied and vibrant lineup.

“We’ve heard rumours that Grace’s set will feature a troupe of backing dancers - a first for the Co-op stage.

“It’s a night not to be missed, and of course, by attending, making a donation or buying co-op merch, people can do their bit to help us on our journey to reopening. All this support helps, and it’s hugely appreciated.”

After building owners Lancaster City Council deemed the co-op premises unsafe and issued an eviction notice in 2019, it was eventually granted a long-term lease after a community campaign and support from city councillors.

The building has since been undergoing major structural repairs funded by £1.2m from the government’s Community Ownership Fund, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Lancaster’s High Street Heritage Action Zone and the city council.

You can donate to the fundraising campaign at https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-lancaster-music-coop

More information on the artists appearing this weekend is available from:

https://www.instagram.com/grace0fmonaco/

https://www.instagram.com/hellenandthemellons/

https://www.instagram.com/go_mercyuk/