Manchester's Adam Hopper tells of the launch of his new outfit, Adam Hopper and the Wimps, with a string of excessively charming singles.
Photo: Adam Hopper | Words: Lloyd Bolton
Manchester-based Adam Hopper, formerly of post-punk outfit Blanketman, has been steadily releasing a run of sweetly written instant indie classics through 2024, starting with the charming 'Like Dancers Do'. Performing for the first time as full band Adam Hopper and the Wimps, the group have been jangling up and down the country, singing about otters and acting as unofficial tourist board for Robin Hood's Bay. Hopper has also just released a Christmas song, 'Get Lloyd A Christmas Card', dedicated to his new label boss at Bingo Records.
Tell us about your 2024 in brief.
2024 has been a lovely year for me and the Wimps. It's kind of been our first year as a band and it feels like we've already achieved a lot to be proud of. We signed to one of my favourite indie labels, Bingo Records, and made lots of good friends and music because of this. I also got married with The Wimps in attendance which was very special. We sold out our first headline show at Low Four in Manchester during the May heatwave, surrounded by friends and family – in hindsight wearing suits for this was a poor choice. We released four singles including our debut 'Like Dancers Do'/'Robin Hoods Bay' on a 7", of which some are still available on Bandcamp (hint hint). We played all around the country, then released two more singles, 'The Butterfly'/'Alexandra Park'!
What is your album of the year and why?
'Small Wide World' by Mr Ben & the Bens – This is not a cop out; I loved Ben's music before I joined Bingo. Just classic songwriting really, joyful, sincere, unapologetic pop music. Every song is a well told story. I just love it, as do The Wimps.
How about song of the year?
'Yes Chef" by The Burning Hell, Ariel Sharratt and Shotgun Jimmie – Best lyrics of the year. A must listen for anyone who has ever worked in a kitchen or in hospitality, or just disliked their job in general. Very funny and very catchy. Keep Jeremy in the dish pit.
Favourite live show you've seen in 2024 and why?
My favourite live show was seeing The Burning Hell supported by Shotgun Jimmie at Gullivers in Manchester. It was my first time seeing the band after getting hooked on them later in 2023. Shotgun Jimmie was a pleasant discovery from a night which just felt like a big warm hug. The music was great, but both bands/artists cultivated a real sense of belonging and family that included the audience and it was just a joy to be part of. I don't get that at gigs often and it's definitely something that I want to try and recreate at our own shows.
What was your highlight of the year as a band?
Bingo Fest is an annual party/festival that the label put on for their community and fans just at the edge of the lake district. It was a great weekend of music. We opened on the Saturday afternoon, and it was a lovely show in a big old barn. We also got to meet, and watch loads of great bands some of which are now great friends of ours.
Favourite thing someone's said about your music?
Someone told me that 'Robin Hood's Bay' soundtracked their holiday to Robin Hood's Bay which I really liked. Also, someone told Big Johnny Chips that he played guitar like Sterling Morrison which he was a big fan of.
…how about the strangest thing someone's said?
That it reminded them of Blink-182 – I must add that they were being complimentary, but it was jarring nonetheless.
What you're looking forward to in 2025?
Lots more new music to release including an EP in Spring, and a tour to go with it with some friends of ours! Writing, recording, rehearsing, beating The Wimps at darts, fresh pints of Guinness. Hair-brained cassette related schemes. My mailing list is the best way to hear about it all so sign up to that readers!
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