Manchester. Unplugged
StreamGM presents Manchester: Unplugged, a new documentary series uncovering the stories behind the songs that make Manchester one of the world’s greatest cities for music.
Each 10-minute episode follows the journey of one song born in the region, from the spark of an idea to the process of writing, recording, release and impact.
Filmed in a cinematic style across iconic and grassroots local venues, rehearsal rooms, pubs and creative spaces, this exciting show blends stripped-back performances with intimate, first-hand reflections from the artists.
With a focus on both the city’s rising stars and its more established names, Manchester: Unplugged captures the energy of the city’s diverse and constantly evolving scene, while staying rooted in its history.
“Manchester: Unplugged is about more than music, it’s about memory, place, and the moment and reason why a song was brought to life,” says producer Laura Graham. “Each episode is a personal narrative by the songwriter. At its core, it’s about meaning and connection: between artist and audience, song and place, past and present.”
The Covasettes on Manchester Unplugged
Episode One: The Covasettes
Premieres Thursday 4th September, 19:00
Filmed at New Century Hall & The Bay Horse Tavern
Breakthrough indie favourites The Covasettes open the series with a special performance of Such a Dream, a new single from their forthcoming debut album Honeymoon Forever (LAB Records, April 2026).
The band reflect on their seven-year journey from playing to just 50 people at Zombie Shack to selling out the iconic New Century Hall, where their acoustic session for the show was filmed. With feel-good themes of new beginnings and love, the utterly infectious and upbeat Such a Dream captures a band finding new creative ground and lyricism.
Lead singer Chris Buxton said: “Being the first band to feature on Manchester:Unplugged was a huge honour.
“Performing Such a Dream in an intimate acoustic setting at the stunning New Century Hall was really special. The series is a wonderful opportunity for artists to showcase their music and provides a glimpse into the creative process of songwriting.
“If you’re into discovering the real heartbeat of Manchester’s music scene, this is a series you won’t want to miss.”
K-klass filming with Manchester: Unplugged
Episode Two: K-Klass
Premieres Thursday 25 September, 19:00
Filmed at The Freemount (formerly Dry Bar)
In a powerful shift of genre, episode two explores one of Manchester’s most enduring and iconic tracks: Rhythm Is a Mystery, by iconic house pioneers: K-Klass.
Filmed inside The Freemount (formerly Dry Bar - the legendary Factory Records venue and “pre-bar” to The Haçienda), the band perform a world-exclusive, stripped-back version of their 1991 club anthem, reimagined 34 years after it first shook dancefloors across the UK.
Paul Roberts from K-Klass explains: “Putting together and performing the stripped-back version of Rhythm Is a Mystery was really refreshing, as it was a complete departure from the way we’ve performed the song for the last 34 years!
“Manchester: Unplugged is an insightful look into how music from this city comes to life, and hopefully it will inspire a new generation of Manchester musicians. Massive shout to the team for this fascinating concept. We loved taking part and hope people enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed filming it.”
The episode sees the band reflect on their roots, meeting at Dry Bar, wild nights at The Haçienda, performing on Top of the Pops, earning a Grammy nomination, and working with global artists including: Rihanna, Whitney Houston, Bobbi Brown, Luther Vandross and New Order, while still dropping Rhythm Is a Mystery to thousands of ravers all over the world today.
