Thomas Blower is a documentary photographer from Manchester, UK. Blower captured inner-city Manchester in the 1970s and 1980s and continues to document the changing face of the city today.
The Rock Against Racism and Anti Nazi League Northern Carnival showcased performances from X-O-Dus (who later signed to Factory Records), Buzzcocks, China Street, and Steel Pulse. Prior to the bands’ performances, over 15,000 people marched from Strangeways Prison (where it was believed that the National Front had infiltrated the staff) to Alexandra Park. During the march, several reggae, punk, and steel bands played on the back of lorries, creating the carnival atmosphere that would later spill into the park.
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
"The gig itself was great. There was no violence, no antagonism; it was just one big party with thousands of people in attendance. People were drinking and smoking a bit of this and that - It was fantastic. I’m a big reggae fan, but I didn't dance that often, though when Steel Pulse came on, you couldn't help but dance!'
- Thomas Blower
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Photo © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive · Licensing available
Collection published 21st April, 2021. © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive. All rights reserved.
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