INTERVIEW BY JANET HARDING
Stanleys Interview, November 2022
North West based 4 piece band, the Stanleys, are taking the UK by storm. The latest to emerge from the vibrant and talented music scene in Wigan, these guys offer crashing indie at its very best. After performing at the sold out 02 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester with fellow Wiganers, the Lathums, and a sold out 02 Ritz with Jamie Webster and the Lottery Winners, the Stanleys then went on to sell out their own Manchester headline in a matter of minutes. After recently touring the UK, finishing in style with a home- coming headline in Wigan, They have now been added to the line up for the brilliant North West indie festival The Neighbourhood Weekender. I caught up with front man, Tom Concannon for some quick fire questions.
JANET (ALL MUSIC MAGAZINE UK)
Thank you so much for finding time to answer a few quick questions for us today…So how was the tour?
TOM (STANLEYS)
The tour has been amazing, it’s been everything me and the lads expected and more and we now can’t wait for the next one.
JANET
For those who haven’t seen you yet, what can we expect at a Stanleys gig?
TOM
Energy and passion. The fans have made every gig on the tour so special with their enthusiasm for singing and it’s so clear on stage that the gigs have a lovely atmosphere.
JANET
Is there a buzz you get from gigging?
TOM
The buzz is always a 2nd hand effect of how the crowd feel, so we’ve felt very special and grateful this tour.
JANET
How do you guys prepare for a gig?
TOM
We have a routine and pattern before gigs in order to get ready to perform which includes eating well, relaxing and enjoying some of our favourite music.
JANET
What’s been your favourite place to perform?
TOM
As always Wigan is our home town and our most treasured place to play, full of family and friends. However London has become a 2nd home to us and we can’t express our gratitude enough for always being welcomed like family down there.
JANET
You play the Neighbourhood Weekender festival in Warrington next year, how s that gonna be?
TOM
It’s always been a massive event that was gossiped about in school and college, so to play it will be a real achievement for us lads. We’ve seen some of our favourite artists there and now hope we can fill those big boots.
JANET
So how was the hometown headline?
TOM
Wigan was probably the best gig we’ve done so far. The energy, the buzz. It was a night to remember.
JANET
And the after party at Indiependance?
TOM
The after party as always was a blast, I’d love to give you details but I’m afraid I’d have to kill you afterwards!
JANET
Who should we be checking out from the local Wigan music scene?
TOM
Facades, Garden Party, Rivver, Flechettes, to name but a few local bands doing Wigan proud.
JANET
What’s it like being a part of that scene?
TOM
There is no secret to the fact that the solidarity between the Wigan bands is something that is pushing us all to better stuff. We inspire and drive each other.
JANET
What’s been an inspiration to you, growing up in Wigan?
TOM
Music has always been a part of the DNA of Wigan and you don’t have to look far to see such inspiration including Northern Soul, Wigan Pier and even the MADchester bands.
JANET
What else inspires you?
TOM
I think the biggest inspiration for me is my family, especially my parents. They have full faith and support for me which is key to everything I achieve.
JANET
Favourite song lyrics and why?
TOM
“Does the body rule the mind or does the mind rule the body, I don’t know” – Morrissey. I’ve still yet to decide myself!
JANET
Any advice for bands starting out?
TOM
Do it, and do it unapologetically. You only have one spin on the wheel, so don’t waste it.
JANET
When did you start singing?
TOM
I have to admit, singing is the easiest instrument to learn in the band, but I suppose I’ve always been a bit obsessed with it.
JANET
Was there a pivotal moment when you knew music would be your life?
TOM
Listening to the Stone Roses debut album when I was around 12ish, I just thought “yep! That will do.”
JANET
Most surreal moment so far?
TOM
Meeting some of the heroes I grew up watching including Sean Ryder and Liam Fray was pretty special.
JANET
Most random fan/crowd encounter?
TOM
Hearing that Blossoms members were in the pub in the Castle, Manchester whilst we played was pretty wild and random.
It’s abundantly clear that the Stanleys are very proud of where they are from. Tom is so down to earth and is just loving his musical journey and has massive respect for his family, his peers and his fan base. I can vouch that Wigan is a hive of musical activity and that the Stanleys are must see, they’re explosive live and Tom’s vocal is incredible. It’s so good that the Stanleys embrace their background and local inspirations, and that they’re bringing it for the rest of the UK to experience.
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My life is a soundtrack, i track my life through music, photography is my passion, my escape, my expression. Without both i have pieces missing, thankfully i’m blessed and get to combine both.
Born in Manchester, lived in Australia for 22 years where i was heavily involved in the Australian Music Industry, firstly in bands (Singer) and then managing bands (all original), I moved back to the UK, Wales specifically 10 years ago
