
Thomas Blower | Rock Against Racism Northern Carnival, 1978
Thomas Blower is a documentary photographer from Manchester, UK. Blower captured inner-city Manchester in the 1970s-80s and continues to document the changing face of the city today.
The 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.
“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 myself, but I didn’t dance that often, though when Steel Pulse came on you couldn’t help but dance!’ – Thomas Blower.
Gallery first published 21st April, 2021. © Thomas Blower / British Culture Archive. All rights reserved.
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