Jade Wright checks out the Liverpool contingent at this year’s festival

THE Mathew Street Festival may attract a huge number of tribute bands each year, but at its heart there’s also a great deal of original music.

Dave Monks hosts the Made in Liverpool Stage this year, a celebration of the city’s music scene, with new bands and some more established Scouse acts. This year, the stage will be in Williamson Square on Sunday and Monday, from 12-6pm.

“The idea is to have a selection of established names alongside some of the great new emerging bands from the city,” says Dave, who also presents the Pool, with Dave Monks, on Radio Merseyside every Sunday evening. “There are so many bands I am looking forward to seeing over the two days.

“Every one of the emerging bands are strong this year, but especially look out for Fly With Vampires, The Wicked Whispers, and The Big House, which features ex-Zuton Paul Molloy and the amazing voice of Candie Payne.

“It is also great to have Delta Maid play on the Monday – she’s had such a successful year releasing her debut album on Geffen records.

“Among the new talent, we have some real Liverpool treats from the likes of John Head (Shack) and his new band, Ian Prowse and Amsterdam, China Crisis, and Tommy Scott (Space) and the Red Scare. There are plenty of recognisable songs to hear.”

What’s the best thing about the Mathew Street Festival?

“It’s a free event and lets people enjoy themselves across the city for a few days,” says Dave. “For me, without a doubt, it’s being involved in the original band stage, the process leading up to the event and having an input on trying to shape the way the event looks in the future.