Name: The Vintage Explosion
Start: 2026-01-23T19:30:00
Location: The Stoller Hall

The Vintage Explosion

The Stoller Hall

This semi-staged concert is based on our preconceptions of mental illness, with each piece having a connection to the psychology of the mind – centred around Peter Maxwell Davies’ harrowing depiction of the ‘madness’ of King George III.

Maxwell Davies was a key member of the Manchester School of Composers, who reshaped the landscape of British music in the late 20th century. 8 Songs for a Mad King is a melodrama with a libretto based on the real-life observations of King George III, presenting an extravagant and disturbing portrayal of his condition. 

Vocalising weirdly as he bemoans his fate, trying to teach his instrumentalist-birds to sing – our musicians becoming projections from within his own mind.

Manchester Camerata: 8 Songs for a Mad King

The Vintage Explosion, the sensational 50’s inspired Rock’n’Roll band known for their unwavering commitment to their craft, continues their meteoric rise to success with a string of remarkable achievements. Over the past four months, The Vintage Explosion has dominated the charts, securing two No.1 albums on the Worldwide iTunes Blues Album Chart and an impressive No.3 placement on the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart. Additionally, their outstanding talent has earned them a spot in the top ten on the prestigious US Billboard Blues Album Chart. 