Massive thank you to everyone who came down and supported Urban Village on its final weekend.
After 30 incredible years of trading and supplying some of the best vintage clothing to the people of Birmingham and beyond, yesterday they closed the doors of their final shop in Henley-in-Arden. It’s the end of an era ( or is it?) Time will tell.
I’m truly grateful that they asked me to provide the soundtrack for their final weekend. It was an honour to be part of such a special occasion. A huge thank you to everyone who made the effort to come along after reading my post or blog—it genuinely meant a lot.
Special thanks to a few people who made the journey:
John Muckle, one of the few people who consistently made the effort to come to my gigs at Hockley Social Club.
My old school friend Matt Palmer, who shared my passion for great music and records from the day we met at High school.
To Keith McKenzie, who’s been around since we were teenagers. Some friendships don’t need explaining—they just stand the test of time.
Steffan Taylor from Hockley Social Club that passed through for a dig.
A huge thanks to Naz & Andeline who made the trip. Henley in Arden means a lot to us three. I really appreciate you passing through. Naz thanks for the Picture
To my old work colleagues and great friends, Marzena and Ivan. Marzena is not only a brilliant photographer but also an incredibly talented jeweller, and we’ve worked together on so many creative projects over the years. A real family friend.
And thanks to some of my colleagues from my current role in education who came along to experience the shop. It’s always nice when different parts of your life cross over.
I can not forget wifey Cristina who not only came out to support on Sunday but filled in for me for those ever so important toilet breaks. You did great on those turntables and of course taking those pictures.
Although the clothing shop has now closed, the record shop remains open, and it’s still one of those places that deserves your support. Independent record shops aren’t just shops—they’re meeting places, archives, classrooms and little sanctuaries for people who genuinely love music.
Over the weekend I played two seven-hour sets from opening until closing, without repeating a single record. People sometimes ask how I do it, but for me it’s never felt difficult. I’ve been collecting music and living with records since I was a kid. Digging, listening and sharing has never been a hobby—it has always just been part of who I am. Dno’t take me granted though there is a cost to everything some form or another.
One of the things I love most about the music I play is how it breaks down barriers. You see young children instinctively dancing to the beat, while older ladies and gentlemen are smiling, moving and enjoying it just the same. Good music connects people regardless of age or background, and that’s a beautiful thing to witness.
It also reminded me how special Midlands record shops are. Just like The Diskery and Polar Bear Records, there’s a warmth and a welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to describe. I’ve never really been part of the “in crowd”—I’ve always walked my own path—but I’ve always appreciated the respect and support I’ve received from these independent shops. Some of them have been part of my life since I was a kid, and that means a great deal to me.
Once again, thank you to everyone who came through and made the weekend so memorable.
Next up is the launch for 4orces’ new double vinyl release here in Birmingham. The plan is to hold a daytime meet-and-greet at The Diskery, followed by an evening event at Panda’s graffiti venue in Digbeth. I just need to finalise the dates, but I hope to see many of you there.
Much love, and keep supporting independent shops, independent music, and the people who keep these communities alive.
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