W. H. Lung: The ‘Wednesday Alternative’ Mix

Music

Like us, you probably thought there was a deeper meaning behind Mancunian five-piece W. H. Lung’s name. In fact, it’s a homage to the Chinese and Asian supermarket of the same name on Upper Brook St who, just like the band, are always well stocked with spicy and tasty treats.

‘Vanities’ is the newest batch of sonic edibles from the group, which is made up of Tom Sharkett, Joe Evans, Alex Main, Chris Mulligan and Hannah Peace. Marking their second LP, following 2019’s acclaimed ‘Incidental Music’, though the nine tracks still recall the synth-pop and kraut-inspired sounds on their debut, this time the they step further into dance-orientated territory — an ode to the clubs they’ve so sorely missed during lockdown.

Ahead of the release of the LP, which is set for release on 8th October, Tom gives us a taste of the dancefloor cuts he’s listening to offstage in this week’s Wednesday Alternative Mix, and asks the important questions: ‘Who’s the most famous David – Beckham or Bowie?’

Ransom Note · W. H. Lung: The ‘Wednesday Alternative’ Mix

Please introduce yourself… Who are you, where are you and what are you

My name’s Tom Sharkett. I live in Manchester and play in a band called W. H. Lung with the fabulous Joe Evans, Alex Main, Chris Mulligan and Hannah Peace.

What does your music sound like? Can you draw what you think it sounds like for us (an image from the old internet is acceptable)?

That picture taken in Manchester on New Year’s Eve a few years ago. To be fair that’s probably overselling it hugely…

Where was the mix recorded?

In my house in Levenshulme – which is where I’ll now be for the next 10 days after catching Covid along with most of the band!

What would be the ideal setting to listen to the mix?

Sat in a paddling pool.

What should we be wearing?

Whatever you like.

What would be your dream setting to record a mix: Location/system/format?

Somewhere with loads of mates to keep me company. Two turntables, two CDJs and a dead expensive mixer.

Which track in the mix is your current favourite?

‘Sensation’ by Ron Hardy. Tom Boogizm played it the first weekend back at the White Hotel and it was very fun.

What’s your favourite recorded mix of all time?

HAAi’s Essential Mix I’ve listened to countless times. Any Avalon Emerson mix is always gonna be great.

If you could go back to back with any DJ from throughout history, who would it be and why?

Avalon Emerson. I think the range of stuff she plays is ace and she’s definitely one of the best DJs I’ve ever seen.

What was your first DJ set up at home and what is it now?

2 Audio-Technica turntables, a shitty 2 channel mixer and some little monitors. Basically exactly the same!

What’s more important, the track you start on or the track you end on?

Both. I do like it when you watch someone come on and it’s a nice transition but also love a big full on, showy opener. Last tune has to be chosen wisely to leave people in a good mood and not too sad it’s all over.

What were the first and last records you bought?

First one(s) (I got a bit excited and got three at once) – I bought Sinead O’Connor, Elton John and Men at Work 7’s in a charity shop in Hyde. Last record I bought was Let Me Speak by Gemma Cullingford – recommended to me by someone who always shows me the best stuff.

If this mix was an edible thing, what would it taste like?

A Caprese salad fine enough for Tony Soprano.

If it was an animal what would it be?

A bit obsessed with Polar Bears currently so one of them.

One record in your collection that is impossible to mix into anything?

Pet Shop Boys – It’s Alright (12” Mix). I tried but it’s a bit too mad. Great tune though.

Upcoming in the world of …

We’ve a new record coming out 8th October on Melodic and touring towards the end of the year – come!

Anything else we need to discuss?

Who’s the most famous David – Beckham or Bowie? A subject of much debate with my housemate.

Tracklist
Appalachian Grove I – Laurie Spiegel
Il Re Delle Mandorle – SSIEGE
Internazionale – Ditongo
Need You – Rigopolar
Rumble – Fausto
It’s Bad You Know – R. L. Burnside
Cosmicos Ananas – Simon Says
Mystery Girl (Club Mix) – Mystery
Sensation (Long Version) – Ron Hardy
Ani Cham (Omri Smadar Remix) – Rina, Benji & Megaphonim
Hold It/Control It – Rex the Dog
Gina lollobrigida (feat. Cici) – Curses
Alone – Leafar Legov
When I’m with You – Sparks

Follow W. H. Lung. Pre-order Vanities. Photo credit: Adrian Davies.