In this video, I sit down with Drew Ellison — better known to many as Andy E — to talk about his role in Manchester’s legendary music scene during the rise of house music, the acid era, and the Madchester movement.
Andy E’s journey into music began with his involvement in an indie band called Twang, who recorded three John Peel Sessions and released their debut on Dave Haslam’s Debris label. But when the indie scene started feeling stale and tracks like “Jack Your Body” hit the clubs, Andy knew house music was the future.
He soon found himself working at Eastern Bloc Records, which at the time was more than just a record shop — it was the beating heart of Manchester’s evolving dance culture. Interviewed by Martin Price, John Berry and Mick Power, Andy landed the job and quickly became part of the action. With DJs like Jon Da Silva, Mike Pickering, and Justin Robertson five-deep at the counter, he recalls the chaos, excitement, and passion of the Eastern Bloc floor — a place where imported white labels and local anthems collided.
In this candid conversation, Andy reflects on what made Eastern Bloc so special: not just the music, but the atmosphere, the people, and the feeling that something new was happening in Manchester. He shares stories of nights out, discovering records that changed his life, and the raw energy that defined the Madchester era. His perspective is unique — both as a musician and someone who worked behind the counter during a pivotal time.
We also talk about the cultural shift in Manchester at the end of the 80s, how dance music became a unifying force, and how record shops like Eastern Bloc helped spread that energy throughout the city and beyond.
Whether you’re a fan of acid house, a collector of rare vinyl, or just someone who wants to understand the roots of Manchester’s world-famous nightlife, this video offers a genuine, personal insight into the scene from someone who was there at street level.
This is more than nostalgia — it’s a firsthand account of the people and places that shaped a cultural movement. Andy E’s passion and storytelling bring the era to life in a way that books and documentaries often miss. We also include a visual tribute at the end of the video — featuring archival photos, record sleeves, and a music track that captures the spirit of the era.
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