It’s been more than a decade since ’90s British alt-rock band Mansun called it quits but their post-Britpop legacy remains strong. Frontman Paul Draper re-emerged last fall amidst the hilarity of the Mansun vs. Mansun Twitter “feud”, later speaking out about the band’s split, his collaboration with Catherine AD, and his shelved solo album (check out my interview with Paul for the Huffington Post here).
With public interest in Mansun renewed, it seemed only right that the next step would be a Mansun fan convention in the band’s hometown of Chester, England.
And so that’s what will happen next weekend, August 23 at Chester’s Live Rooms, with more than 500 Mansun fans expected in attendance. The convention’s full schedule of events has already been posted online and boasts a lineup of panels, video screenings, open mics, and even a “Dance Like Draper” dance contest. King Adora frontman Maxi Browne will appear on a panel titled “On the Road with Mansun” while countless others — from journalist Simon Price to musician Dev Hynes, who sampled “I Can Only Disappoint U” on his 2013 track “Always Let U Down” — have contributed to the event.
Meanwhile, Mansun fans will be treated to previously unheard demos, unseen photos, and even the revealing of Paul Draper’s first solo track. Mansun memorabilia will be up for grabs in a charity auction benefiting the children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent. Tickets for the convention are still available for purchase from SeeTickets.
For more information, check out the convention’s official website and preview exclusive Attack of the Grey Lantern out-takes below.