Music Promoter Darrell Hooper tells Roger Osborne why he is bringing the Shakinouts to Scarborough

A hive of activity in jazz and blues, and with a steady conveyor belt of local talent, Scarborough hasn’t been hosting upcoming and innovative talent from elsewhere like it used to.

Enter Darrell Hooper, with a mission to restore Scarborough as a great place to see and hear the best touring bands around. Coastlive is Darrell’s brand name for a series of events, concerts and gigs that should put Scarborough back on the touring map – and give us the chance to sample some great music.

Coastlive gets going on 21 June with a hugely impressive lineup of five bands. The Shakinouts are a four-piece from Leeds making real waves in the music industry; they recently filmed a video in Scarborough. The Ruling Class hail from London’s Stoke Newington, recently toured with the Charlatans, and are possessed of an infectious indiepop sound. Their second single is due out on Loog records. Alvin Purple made a big impact a London’s 100 Club and are recording at present. Joining these three will be Scarborough’s own Manfatvoodoo, together with Grinny Grandad, fresh from last year’s Glastonbury.
Darrell has a good track record of promoting music in Scarborough – his Dazed and Confused season at the Ramshill put on 30 new acts in just 10 weeks. He told High Tide: ‘We are pleased that we have been able to entice a young up and coming band from London for the launch night. The Ruling Class have built a growing fanbase. We are in talks with several promoters about well-known bands and are putting together a really nice series of gigs. There's no need to travel to York, the best live music will be right here on the coast.’
Coastlive looks to have just the right mix of local, regional and national talent; could Scarborough be getting back on the national music map.

Coastlive Sunday 21 June Vivaz from 7:30pm
Tickets £6 from www.coastlive.co.uk or Mojos