A landmark photography project
Bruce Mitchell is one of the most enduring and best loved Manchester music characters... christened ‘the real Mr Manchester’ by music impresario Tony Wilson. Bruce has participated in six decades of British music... he was a former member of Greasy Bear, comedy rock band Alberto y Lost Trios Paranoias and continues to be the drummer in post punk band The Durutti Column. Born in Didsbury in 1940, he was surrounded by music as a child, his father was a drummer and a bass player. Bruce learned to play the drums in his early teens and started playing in jazz groups, sometimes deputising for his father. Bruce recalls that, “drummers had to be showmen, and saw the musical revolution when the "beat groups" that had been supporting them suddenly became the headline acts an observation made from his experiences playing show’s at The Cavern in Liverpool.
"There aren't many people in rock 'n' roll like Bruce, with his monocle and his hats, Bruce’s reputation is a result of his total unselfishness and willingness to muck in... he sees helping bands as a civic duty” - Peter Hook
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Alongside his career as a musician, Bruce founded and runs the Manchester Light and Stage Company - which supplies sound and light systems for gigs and events in Manchester and beyond. A parallel career which began after his band Greasy Bear supported The Who in the early 1970’s. Bruce was transfixed by The Who’s revolutionary stage lighting and the dramatic way Keith Moon’s drum kit was illuminated. A successful career in the events industry ensued.
Manchester is a wonderful place and it's interesting to see what new music will bubble through next... I hope to be able to see it, help with it and enjoy it - Bruce Mitchell
The Durutti Column were the first act to be signed to Factory Records by label founder Tony Wilson in 1978. Bruce doubled as co-manager with Wilson throughout their career on Factory.
Photography by Rose Baylis and MJ Smith
THE SHOOT: Manchester Light and Stage, Ardwick
Bruce's company depot
Student reflection: Rose Baylis
"This was my second shoot for the Greater Mancunians Project. My partner works in the Event Industry and had told me that Bruce was a bit of a local legend so I was eager to meet and photograph him!
We were photographing him both in and outside which meant the light altered quite drastically in each location. This lead to some of the shots exposure differences which I had to correct post process. His depot was a great location, the stage decking provided an interesting backdrop and gave the images context. I felt more prepared this time a round, the first shoot had definitely helped my confidence a little and Bruce was fantastic to work with… what a character! It was great talking to him and seeing how passionate he is about his music and the industry he works in. I’ve even come away with some wedding tips!
I’ve loved working on this project, each shoot has brought something different and i’m really enjoying the process of being pushed out of my comfort zone, trying new things and dealing with any challenges that come up. Thanks for letting me be part of it."
