In this in-depth conversation, I sit down with Martin Moscrop of the legendary Manchester band A Certain Ratio (ACR) to explore their groundbreaking early years and the profound impact their time in New York City had on their music and the Manchester music scene.
Martin shares the story of how Tony Wilson, founder of Factory Records, invited the band to record their debut album in New York in September 1980. At the time, the band members, including Martin who was working as an apprentice electrician in Stockport, had full-time jobs. Tony’s offer meant they had to quit their jobs for a three-week recording trip—a decision that would shape their musical future.
Recording their first album, “To Each,” with producer Martin Hannett, ACR expected to infuse it with the jazz and funk influences they were absorbing in New York. However, Hannett’s production style stripped away much of that sound, leading to a different final product. This experience heavily influenced their next album, “Sextet,” which they self-produced. Their early trips to New York directly inspired both “Sextet” and “I’d Like to See You Again,” showcasing how the city shaped their evolving sound.
Martin recalls how Tony Wilson rented a minimalist loft in Tribeca for the band, where they lived and worked while recording. Their first New York gig was at Hurrah, supported by ESG, whose raw, soulful sound left a lasting impression. Martin shares how ACR offered their leftover studio time to ESG, resulting in ESG recording their first EP with Martin Hannett.
During these trips, ACR also connected with future industry legends. They befriended a young Matt Dike, who would later co-found Delicious Vinyl Records and produce the Beastie Boys’ iconic album “Paul’s Boutique.” Martin amusingly recalls how the Beastie Boys, then teenagers, attended one of ACR’s gigs and credited ACR’s track “Do the Du” as a musical influence.
Martin reflects on how New York’s club scene—with venues like Danceteria, Hurrah, and Tier 3—influenced the creation of Manchester’s own legendary nightclub, The Hacienda. The clubs’ vibrant atmospheres, cutting-edge sound systems, and immersive experiences inspired Tony Wilson and the Factory team to bring that energy back to Manchester.
He shares candid stories of their nightlife adventures, including meeting the Rolling Stones at a party, experimenting with THC capsules from the infamous Cindy Ecstasy, and the gritty reality of navigating New York’s dangerous neighborhoods in the early ’80s.
Martin also highlights the cultural exchange between Manchester and New York, driven by promoter Ruth Polsky, who helped bridge the post-punk scenes of both cities. This connection not only influenced ACR’s music but also helped shape the broader Manchester scene.
The conversation closes with Martin reflecting on the music that inspired him most during this time—especially the Brazilian jazz-funk band Azymuth—and his own pioneering work in Acid House with the track “ED209.”
This is a must-watch for fans of A Certain Ratio, lovers of Manchester’s music history, and anyone interested in the cultural exchange between Manchester and New York that birthed iconic movements in post-punk, dance music, and club culture.
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