With just two days to go, there is a true sense of expectancy in the air as Liverpool Sound City draws ever closer to opening.
Seeing his vision come together is the result of months of careful planning by festival director Dave Pichilingi, whose drive and inspiration is bringing an incredible event to Liverpool on a scale which has never been seen before.
Here he gives an insight into the start of something truly special for Liverpool.
Getintothis: It’s now just over a couple of days before Liverpool Sound City, how are you feeling?
Dave Pichilingi: Nervous, excited.ÃÂ It is the first time Liverpool has ever staged anything of this scale bringing in artists, world media and music business people from all over the UK and the world.
We have over 270 bands playing over 20 venues, delegates and artists coming in from USA, Japan, Australia, France, Germany, Scandinavia… and even Manchester! And I keep thinking have we done enough?
Getintothis: What does LSC represent for Liverpool and the north west, what elements of Liverpool’s musical heritage will be represented?
DP: This will be the first time Liverpool has had the chance to celebrate in this way what we do best.
We are giving over 80 unsigned bands (the vast majority from the region) the chance to show what they can do to the world music industry.ÃÂ
We are offering regional record labels, managers, businesses the chance to meet and rub shoulders with some of the leading players from the business they work in.ÃÂ LSC aims to become the UK version of South By South West (SXSW) and become as important on the music business calendar for the key players from all levels of the industry.
Getintothis: For you, what’s the most exciting part of LSC?
DP: Loads of stuff.ÃÂ The Wombats playing in St George’s Hall will be amazing.
Anyone who manages to get a ticket for that is in for a treat. Some of the panels are going to be too good to miss.ÃÂ Particularly the Manchester v Liverpool debate.
Getintothis: Who are you looking forwards to seeing most?ÃÂ
DP: The Wombats, Silver Jews, Hercules and Love Affair, Santogold, Vetiver… Too many to mention.
Getintothis: Why has it taken so long for something like LSC to come to Liverpool?
DP: It always takes a catalyst to make these things happen.ÃÂ I can’t really answer why it took so long.
I’m just happy it is going to happen now!ÃÂ From my point of view I think we have all the best elements of SXSW, Midem, Great Escape, Popkomm rolled into one.
Getintothis: Can you explain a bit more about the John Peel influences and activities at LSC?
DP: The John Peel celebration is set to become an annual part of SC.ÃÂ Every year SC will begin with the John Peel 6-a-side World Cup.ÃÂ
Every year the winners will get their name on the cup and be presented with their medals at the John Peel celebration party.ÃÂ
This is the least we can do for our beloved lost Liverpool son and a great way to celebrate what he stood for every year.
Getintothis: Lastly, what about LSC 2009?ÃÂ
DP:ÃÂ I can’t even think about that yet, ask me on June 1st!
Getintothis guide and Sound City full listings
Official site
