James and Sherlocks launch Music In The Gardens

Music In The Gardens started life as a jazz night in a small marquee and is now attracting some big names.

With sales of more than 25 million albums, James are one of the most successful bands in the UK and despite forming in 1982 they still generate a buzz. Let’s hope The Sherlocks can enjoy the same longevity.

The event had a laid-back feel as gig-goers set out picnics and deckchairs

It was certainly the ideal vibe for the mid-30s onwards, BBC 6Music-type fans, and worth noting that you can even take your own alcohol in.

Being Manchester-born it was great to have a slice of home in my adopted city and finally, after missing them several times at festivals, I was going to see front man Tim Booth’s psychedelic dance moves up close.

It has to be the first gig I’ve ever been to where the headliners have opened with a stripped down, acoustic version of one of their biggest hits, She’s A Star.

The crowd were immediately embracing each other and trying desperately to match Booth’s soaring falsetto – which may explain my sore throat this morning.

I was impressed Booth’s lovely lilting voice still sounded so good having gone through the Madchester and rave eras.

With his shaven head, unkempt jumper and baggy trousers, he still looks like the last hippy standing at the party and even asked the crowd to take him in and share him round “like a joint”.

It wasn’t long before Booth was fully submerged in the crowd, I even got to assist his crowd surfing, and he told us we were lucky as he picks his moments carefully depending on the connection.

Even the rain couldn’t ruin the far-out vibes over the two-hour show and obviously us Mancunians are used to it!

Music In The Gardens is no ordinary festival - it is organised by Rotary Clubs from South Yorkshire and North East Derbyshire. 

Every penny raised goes to charity and the event has so far raised £250,000 over the years.

Tonight The Feeling are headlining, followed by UB40 on Saturday.

The Last Night in the Gardens on Sunday will feature The Unite The Union Brass Band and The Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra for some good old flag waving sing-along topped off with a fireworks display.

Tickets are available from: http://www.sivtickets.com

More details from http://www.musicinthegardens.co.uk

The Feeling - July 1 -  £18 in advance (plus £2 booking fee) - £23 on gate.

UB40 - July 2 -  £35 in advance (plus £4 booking fee) - £40 on gate.

The Unite The Union Brass Band and The Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra – July 3  £15 in advance (plus £2 booking fee), £20 on the gate. 

16s and under £5 entry plus £1 booking fee.