Sunbird in Darwen to host ElectroFest II this weekend

The inaugural ElectroFest held at Darwen Library Theatre last year proved such a success that it has been expanded and moved to a more intimate club-like setting for 2024.

Held at Sunbird Records, the event on Saturday will feature a number of special releases and rare performances. In total 10 bands and artists influenced by the early pioneers of the electronic music scene will be playing live.

Doors open at 2pm and the first band on stage at 2.30pm promises to be one of the many ‘must see’ elements.

For it marks the return of Casino Filter, one of the youngest independent bands from the late 70s who achieved cult status in East Lancashire despite playing only a handful of gigs.

For three members of the band Saturday will mark the first first time they’ve shared a stage in 45 years. To commemorate the occasion the band will launch an album of their original songs, Sons of Barbary Coast, which will be available on the day.

The event will also see the release of a compilation album ElectroFest II featuring a track from each of the bands taking part along with videos, animations and digital artwork by Louis Collins, Tom Longworth, Marcel Buschek and Andrew Fishwick Mahon being showcased.

The bands taking part are: Early Humans, My Little Universe, Some Now Are, The Junta, The Dots, Material Goods, Naut, Mistrust, Lunathug and Casino Filter

Following the live performances there will be an aftershow party with DJ Steve Waring.

Based on an original idea by local music enthusiasts Joe Wilkinson and Ronnie Brown, ElectroFest is curated by singer/songwriter Andrew Fishwick-Mahon and promoter Steve Burch.

Tickets priced £10 in advance are available from www.bwdvenues.com and in person at the box office at King George’s Hall, Blackburn and Darwen Library Theatre or on the door at Sunbird Records, £12.

Ticketholders will be issued with an official ElectroFest wristband on arrival which gives unlimited access to the event day and night.