A Carefully Planned is one of many UK rapidly expanding metropolitan festivals but very few offer as many delights for so little money as Manchester’s weekender that celebrates its 5th birthday in 2015. Offering up 150 artists over two days for £17.50 (or £12.50 for a single day ticket) across seven venues, it presents a line-up of such quality and quantity that it’s almost frustrating. And all of this is before considering how much time you’ll want to spend working through the choice of real ales and whiskeys at The Castle Hotel or the cocktails at Cord, and choosing whether to eat at the Night & Day Cafe or at The Soup Kitchen.
Amongst all of the pop, indie, indie-pop, rock, post-rock, math-rock and Lord knows what else,
Returning to Manchester’s Northern Quarter for the 5th time, ACPF is a true gem of the local DIY scene. Organised entirely by volunteers, this event has played host to the likes of the now established names like Alt-J, Everything Everything and Peace. As a result, it has acquired a significant local following and reputation for smart bookings and friendly vibe. As well as new music, expect to hear more alternative under-the-radar sounds, with this year’s very strong psych showing being a big draw. With criminally cheap weekend tickets costing just £17.50, it is a must for anyone looking to see established names as well as getting a flavour of up-and-coming talent. In addition to the bands, this year’s brand new Merch Bazaar will feature very special editions of festival posters designed by the local artist Joy Morris.
Music highlights: Ashtray Navigations, Crushed Beaks, Hannah Lou Clark, ILL, Kagoule, Moscow Transport, Marsicans, Mechanical Owl, Mind Mountain,Trembling Bells
Tickets and full line up information: https://acpfestival.wordpress.com
The Fat Angel Sings 