Emma-Jean Thackray - Concert Review & Ticket Information

Prepare yourselves, Manchester, for an evening of truly transcendent sound as the extraordinary Emma-Jean Thackray brings her cosmic jazz brilliance to the legendary Band On The Wall. on Thursday, 6th November 2025. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of modern British jazz, infused with funk, spiritual grooves, and a healthy dose of electronic experimentation. Thackray, a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer, has carved out a unique space in the contemporary music landscape, captivating audiences with her innovative vision and impeccable musicianship.

Her Manchester appearance promises to be a highlight in the city’s vibrant cultural calendar, offering a chance to witness one of the UK’s most exciting musical talents in an intimate, iconic setting. From the intricate rhythms to the soaring melodies and profound lyrical themes, Thackray’s live performances are renowned for their energy and spiritual depth. Mark your diaries and prepare for an unforgettable night where boundaries blur and music truly takes flight.

About Emma-Jean Thackray

Emma-Jean Thackray is a force of nature in the contemporary music scene, a multi-hyphenate artist whose boundless creativity spans composition, production, multi-instrumental performance, and bandleading. Hailing from South London and a graduate of Leeds College of Music, Thackray emerged with a singular voice, blending the rich heritage of spiritual jazz with modern sensibilities drawn from funk, electronica, hip-hop, and even classical influences. Her sound is instantly recognisable: vibrant, deeply rhythmic, and often profoundly meditative.

Her critically acclaimed debut album, Yellow, released in 2021, solidified her status as a visionary artist. Tracks like “Say Something” and “Venus” showcased her ability to craft intricate, groove-laden soundscapes that are both intellectually stimulating and deeply soulful. Prior to Yellow, her EPs such as Um Yang and Rain Dance had already garnered significant attention, establishing her unique blend of cosmic jazz and broken beat. Thackray is celebrated not just for her studio work, where she often plays most instruments herself, but also for her electrifying live performances. She typically fronts a tight, exceptionally talented quartet or quintet, featuring some of the finest musicians on the UK jazz circuit. Expect her to command the stage, often moving between drums, synthesizers, and vocals, conducting her band with an intuitive brilliance that makes every show a dynamic, improvisational spectacle.

Band On The Wall.: The Perfect Setting

Nestled in the heart of Manchester’s bustling Northern Quarter, Band On The Wall. stands as a beacon of musical heritage and innovation. With a history stretching back over two centuries – originally a pub and then a music hall – this iconic venue has been a cornerstone of Manchester’s cultural scene since its transformation into a dedicated music venue in 1975. Its name famously derives from the fact that bands literally played on a stage on the wall.

Following extensive refurbishment, Band On The Wall. reopened with state-of-the-art facilities while retaining its legendary intimate atmosphere. With a capacity of around 500 for its main performance space, it strikes the perfect balance, allowing for an up-close and personal experience with artists without feeling cramped. The venue is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and top-tier sound system, crucial for experiencing the intricate layers of Thackray’s music. Its commitment to diverse genres, from jazz and world music to folk and indie, makes it the ideal home for an artist who effortlessly transcends traditional categories. Accessibility is also a priority, with ground-level access, a lift to the main performance space, and accessible toilet facilities, ensuring a welcoming environment for all music lovers.

What to Expect at the Show

Attending an Emma-Jean Thackray concert is far more than just hearing songs; it’s an experience that engages all the senses and often feels like a communal journey. For her 2025 show at Band On The Wall., expect a meticulously curated setlist that draws heavily from her celebrated albums, Yellow and Um Yang, alongside potentially teasing new material. Fans can anticipate hearing favourites such as the vibrant “Say Something,” the expansive “Movementt,” and the deeply spiritual “Our People.”

Thackray’s live shows are characterised by their dynamic improvisation, meaning no two performances are ever quite the same. The stage production tends to be focused on the music itself, with atmospheric lighting enhancing the mood rather than distracting from the intricate musicianship. Expect a rich tapestry of sound: deep, infectious grooves laid down by the rhythm section, soaring horn melodies, Thackray’s distinctive vocals, and her masterful use of synthesizers to create lush, cosmic textures. The atmosphere in the room will likely be one of deep appreciation and focused engagement, as audiences are drawn into the hypnotic rhythms and profound spiritual undertones of her work. It’s a chance to witness a band truly locked in, communicating through improvisation, and delivering a performance that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving.

Getting to Band On The Wall.

Band On The Wall. is conveniently located in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, making it easily accessible via various transport links. The venue’s postcode is M4 5JZ, which can be used for navigation.

For those travelling by train, Manchester Piccadilly is approximately a 10-15 minute walk away, offering connections to national rail services. Manchester Victoria station is even closer, just a 5-10 minute stroll. If you prefer the Metrolink tram system, the Shudehill interchange is the closest stop, a mere 5-minute walk from the venue, with Market Street a slightly longer but still manageable 10-minute walk. Numerous bus routes also serve the Northern Quarter, with stops very close to Band On The Wall. For those driving, several NCP car parks are available nearby, including those at Printworks and Church Street. However, given the venue’s city centre location, public transport is highly recommended, especially on a busy Thursday evening. Consider pre-booking parking if driving is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the event start?

Typically, doors for evening shows at Band On The Wall. open around 7:00 PM, with the support act (if any) starting around 7:45 PM – 8:00 PM, and the main act, Emma-Jean Thackray, usually taking to the stage between 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM. It’s always best to check your ticket or the venue’s website closer to the date for precise timings.

Is there an age restriction?

Band On The Wall. generally operates a 14+ age restriction for most of its evening gigs, meaning attendees under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Valid photographic ID may be required for entry, particularly for those wishing to purchase alcoholic beverages. Please verify the specific age policy for this event on the ticket vendor’s website.

What’s the refund policy?

As is standard for most music venues, tickets are generally non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or significantly rescheduled. If the event is cancelled, you will usually be offered a full refund. In the case of a rescheduling, your ticket will typically remain valid for the new date, with an option for a refund if you cannot attend. All refund enquiries should be directed to your point of purchase.

Are there food and drink options?

Yes, Band On The Wall. boasts a well-stocked bar within the main venue space, offering a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including beers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. While the venue does not typically offer an extensive hot food menu, there are countless fantastic restaurants, cafes, and takeaways right on its doorstep in the Northern Quarter, perfect for a pre-gig meal or snack.

Where to Stay in Manchester

If you’re travelling to Manchester for this unmissable gig, the

---

🎫 Get Your Tickets

Don’t miss Emma-Jean Thackray at Band On The Wall.!

→ Buy Tickets on Ticketmaster

---

🏨 Need Accommodation?

Staying overnight for the concert? Find the best hotels in Manchester on NeedAHotel.net - compare prices from hundreds of booking sites and get the best deals near Band On The Wall..

---