UB40 played their Raise The Roof gig at The Rainbow last night, raising publicity to the campaign against the Noise Abatement order as well as money for a new, sound-insulating roof. Photographer Karen Strunks listened to her gut instinct and went to the gig sans press pass, but managed to sweet-talk her way in (she’s good at that) and got some great photos.
UB40 gave their support to The Rainbow because it is under threat as it has received a noise abatement order from local residents (or resident). Although the landlord Kent Davis has agreed to build a noise insulating roof, there was still more funding needed. UB40 stepped in, and the sales from the tickets and takings behind the bar will go towards the new roof. Digbeth is a vital part of Birmingham’s cultural scene and the music in and around the area plays an important role. I hope that tonight, The Rainbow has managed to raise all the funding needed. As the local saying goes “Keep Digbeth Vibrant!”
If you missed the fun, you can listen again on Rhubarb Radio, to this very set (courtesy of Music as Culture):
The gig has received widespread news coverage, featuring in the Birmingham Post and on BBC News, who ask:
But if it can take a handful of complaints to trigger a noise-abatement order, what is the future of the live music scene in the area?
What indeed? Time will tell.
