1999 was a momentous year for Grand Central in many ways. Our joint club venture with local licensing label Fat City - 'Counter Culture' went from strength to strength, establishing itself as one of the UK's premier underground nights. They did a highly successful six date British tour in February and soon found themselves being booked for most of the major UK and European festivals. Starting the summer as festival virgins - it's certainly one we'll never forget. Although release-wise Grand Central has been a bit quiet of late, the studio has been a hive of activity.
Next year sees the biggest year to date and several high profile LPs are due to drop.
After five years and over 40 independent releases, the label has matured and has now embarked on releasing artist led albums from the producers in their charge. Each of these albums will continue within the original ethos of hip hop's rhythmical innovation expanding our use of MCs and singers whilst maintaining Grand Central's commitment to long term artist development. Riton and Funky Fresh Few are in their studios recording demos for their debut albums. Grand Central's influences are drawn from the previously ignored Manchester underground scene which spans back to the 70's jazz experimentation, the Northern Soul scene with most recent inspiration taken from the city's new blood producers like Waiwan, Paper Recordings and Twisted Nerve. The label's musical innovation and song writing talent easily ranks alongside the worlds best.