By Suzanne Coulson
In the world of music, I claim not to be a seasoned critic or expert, but I know what I like when I hear it and even better when I feel it. The music scene in the general North Shields / North Tyneside area is absolutely buzzing! It’s clear that this region is a hotbed of musical innovation and creativity. From indie rock to electronic beats, the diversity of genres and the calibre of artists are propelling the area’s music scene to new heights.
In the heart of the scene we find the distinctive Man Power – an alias of seasoned DJ and Producer Geoff Kirkwood. Amidst the vibrant soundscape of Shields, Man Power stands out for his commitment to laying a path of authenticity and originality. His ‘Me Me Me’ label, DJ and production prowess, unwavering support of talents both near and far as well as a dedication to nurturing local artists only just scratch the surface of his depth of talent and body of work.
When delving deeper, it’s easy to find yourself falling down a rabbit hole revealing the breadth of his influence and contributions to the electronic music scene – his music rooted in a fantastically creative and unconventional blend of industrial influences and cosmic sounds with a hint of Studio 54 glamour.
Recognised by enthusiasts of house, techno, disco, and electronica, he boasts a vast global following, performing in both prominent clubs and intimate spaces across the globe, being a former artist in residence at the Sage Gateshead as well as gracing the stages of major festivals such as Glastonbury and Burning Man. But home is where the heart is and this is evident in his dedication to bringing ‘creativity, culture, innovation and entrepreneurship’ in the transformation of a former derelict building, One Three One Space, located in the heart of the North Shields Fish Quay.
Whilst his achievements are apparent, it’s the transformative impact of experiencing Kirkwood’s live performance in his hometown of North Shields that is most impressive. My first encounter being December 2022 (invited along by friends who had already immersed themselves in his world) when he introduced the renowned Prosumer to our humble town—an unfamiliar name to me at the time, yet it unveiled a realm of raves and parties that I, at 40, had never explored. It was electric! From the gradual, pulsating bass buildup to the exhilarating disco rhythms that resonated into the early hours, that day marked a profound shift – it felt truly extraordinary! Hungry for something new and exciting, he delivered what I didn’t know I needed but now can’t be without!
Now, a regular attendee at his King Street CIU events (the venue having been chosen to uphold and preserve the cultural heritage of the traditional North East social club), the local scene has soaked in homegrown talents in addition to hosting back to back sessions with esteemed artists such as the aforementioned Prosumer, Sean Johnston of Hardway Bros, Artwork, and Daniel Avery – not to mention his unforgettable collaboration with Erol Alkan at the newly revamped Exchange venue in the heart of the town. He continues to #KeepitShields with his incredible upcoming booking as he joins forces with Scottish DJ and producer Ewan McVicar to be held in May – a surefire sell-out destined to leave an indelible mark on the local music scene.
Within the community cultivated from gig attendees, there is something of a subtle reluctance to unveil his gems, fearing the loss of the exclusive connection to Kirkwood’s artistry and locality but he rewards his local following with his ‘Cheap Thrills’ parties. The real kinship and camaraderie fostered solely through his music borders on magical – a group spanning various age groups and comprising a diverse array of music enthusiasts; some participants reliving their vibrant rave experiences from the 90s and early 2000s and others, including myself, revelling in this musical phenomenon and exhilarating rush for the very first time.
Kirkwood is undoubtedly an influential figure walking amongst us, a commendable model for cultural enrichment within the North Shields area – more than deserving of our support over and above the fact he hosts an absolutely cracking party!
There’s something particularly special about the journey he has orchestrated and it is clear his artistry transcends mere entertainment; forging connections and unity long after the last note fades.
Instagram: @manpowermusic
Upcoming gigs and tickets: ra.co/dj/manpower
