Cargo Recording Studios - Author Q&A

Chris Connelly chats to Mark Hoyle (Dub Sex) about the legendary Rochdale-based recording studios that used by Joy Division + many more.

Chris Connelly is coming to Manchester Central Library to discuss his exceptional new book 'CARGO RECORDING STUDIOS:1977-1985'.

The Cargo Studios book is a history of the music recorded at the studio in Rochdale. The studio opened in late 1977 and closed in early 1985. It's where the seminal ‘Atmosphere’ by Joy Division was recorded, as well as other influential tracks from The Fall, Gang of Four, The Chameleons, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, A Certain Ratio, Echo and the Bunnymen, and many more. It was also where David Gedge of the Wedding Present, Lisa Stansfield and Roland Gift first recorded.

A true labour of love, Chris Connelly spent twelve years researching the 360-page hard-back book which features over a thousand pictures and music memorabilia. With over 900 people interviewed, it also includes essays by artists who recorded there, who expand upon the times, hustling to get gigs, the politics of the day, and venues played.

Launching his book in Manchester City Centre for the first time, Chris Connelly will be appearing at the Henry Watson Music Library on Thursday 12 March @ 6pm.

He will be in conversation with author and musician Mark Hoyle (of the band Dub Sex), who is among the musicians to have recorded at Cargo Studios. Hoyle released his own book 'Swerve - Dubsex & Other Stories' in 2024.

Tickets are available now, simply ‘pay-what-you-can’.
All donations go to Manchester Libraries.