First Light Presents: Novus w/ Adriaan de Roover
Johnny James, Managing Editor
Presented by Manchester-based label and arts platform First Light Records, Novus is a brand new electronic and audio-visual night situated in the heart of Chorlton. On the first Saturday of every month, artisan café Barbecue will be transformed into an intimate performance space, fitted with a state-of-the-art A/V setup, sound system and pop up bar. For Novus’ first outing, First Light have invited three special guests from Belgium to perform in Manchester for the first time: Adriaan de Roover (AKA Oaktree), Épong and Crat. All are worth checking out.
“Think of a private party with William Basinski, Nicolas Jaar and Fennesz.” This is how Clash described Adriaan de Roover’s excellent Dust back in 2016. Comprising ambient soundscapes, minimalist beats and human-tinged electronics, this genre-spanning EP manages to conjure vast spaces whilst also feeling decidedly intimate. ‘Field of Drums’, de Roover’s most recent release, is similarly intriguing. Darker and more mysterious, it’s suggestive of a slight change of tact from the Belgium-based artist, and is an exciting indication of the kinds of sounds we’ll be hearing from him at Barbecue.
Another exciting name on the line-up is Épong, whose latest full-length release Oprichnik is an experimental, noisy delight. Infusing modern avant-garde club music with turbulent, emotion-drenched soundscapes, his visceral live sets touch on everything from distorted glitch and heavy hip-hop beats to experimental techno, ambient noise and punchy breakbeats. Signed to Brussels label MONTAGE, Épong will be followed by head of the label (and skilled DJ in his own right), Crat, whose signature blend of electronica, techno and leftfield dance will close the proceedings.
Novus is a really exciting new addition to the experimental side of Manchester’s electronic scene. Don’t miss the very first instalment!
