Independent music business Applestump Records attracted another major live act to Nantwich as Reverend & the Makers performed to a packed audience at Nantwich Civic Hall.
Supported by singer-songwriter Lauren Housley, the Sheffield indie favourites delivered an energetic and memorable set led by frontman Jon McClure, known to fans as “The Reverend”.
Concertgoers were treated to fan favourites, including the band’s breakthrough anthem Heavyweight Champion of the World.
One of the evening’s standout moments came during the now traditional “song in the street”, which saw the entire audience spill onto the Civic Hall steps for a mass singalong featuring classics by bands including The Stone Roses and The Specials.
Emerging during Sheffield’s celebrated indie boom of the mid-2000s alongside contemporaries Arctic Monkeys, Reverend & the Makers have built a loyal following over the past two decades, with all eight of their studio albums reaching the UK Top 20.
The Nantwich performance formed part of celebrations surrounding the release of the band’s latest album, Is This How Happiness Feels?, which was sitting at Number 3 in the Official UK Albums midweek chart during the show — putting the band on course for their highest-ever chart position.
The new roots-inspired record explores themes of soul, reflection and family, inspired in part by the death of Jon McClure’s father, adding an emotional depth to the evening’s performance.
Steve Cook, co-owner of Applestump Records, said: “What a fantastic night for Nantwich and for live music.
“Reverend & the Makers were absolutely brilliant and the atmosphere inside the Civic Hall was incredible from start to finish.
“We’d like to thank Jon and the band for coming to Nantwich, all the music fans who supported the event, our amazing staff who worked so hard behind the scenes, and the people of Nantwich for continuing to support independent businesses and live music events in the town.”
Based on Oatmarket, Applestump Records has gained national attention in recent years through an expanding programme of live gigs, record signings, Q&A sessions and special events.
Founded by Steve and Dani Cook in 2021 as a lockdown passion project, the business has evolved from a small online vinyl operation into a thriving independent record shop and events brand.
Since opening its physical store in 2022, the business has welcomed a number of high-profile names including Blue, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Skindred and Mel C.
With major events continuing to attract visitors from across the region, Applestump Records is further cementing its reputation at the heart of Nantwich’s growing live music scene.
(Review by Jonathan White, pics by Angela Murton)
Congratulations to Steve and Dani for another amazing night of music in Nantwich.
The Reverend was at his best and I can vouch for the fact that the crowd loved it all and this spilled over to the band who staged a fantastic performance.