Interview with Harry Stafford on WMNF 88.5 FM
Inca Babies, founded in Manchester, exude the true essence of rock ‘n’ roll while proudly carrying the label of a Manchester band. They are pivotal figures in the post-punk and deathrock movements, shaping the UK music scene. With Harry Stafford at the helm and Rob Haynes as a long-time collaborator, the band crafted a dark, edgy sound that continues to inspire contemporary music. In their prime, they garnered a loyal following, released six singles and four chart-topping albums, and recorded four coveted BBC John Peel sessions from 1984 to 1988, solidifying their status as alternative icons.
Since their resurgence in 2007, Inca Babies have shown that they are not merely a nostalgic act but rather influential figures in the British underground music scene. According to Harry Stafford, the release of their album “Ghost Mechanic Nine” in 2025 was a testament to their commitment to revitalizing old tracks and creating new music for their dedicated fanbase. This project aimed to breathe new life into their classic tunes, reimagining them for a contemporary audience.
The documentary “The Making of Ghost Mechanic Nine” in 2024 shed light on Inca Babies’ journey from their origins in Manchester’s iconic Hulme flats in 1983. They have since released four albums, toured extensively across three continents, and continue to experiment with genres like goth, punk, death-rock, and jazz-blues. Their latest album, “Reincarnation,” features Harry Stafford on guitars, bass, keyboards, and vocals, with Rob Haynes on drums and percussion, and Vincent O’Brien on slide guitar.
Reflecting on Manchester’s musical legacy, Harry Stafford acknowledges the city’s historic contributions to music. The vibrant music scene in Manchester has birthed notable acts, including Sumos, a self-proclaimed “Manchester scuzz-pop quartet.” Their album “Luck” offers a melodic blend of noisy pop songs that touch on themes of love, loss, pets, and social issues, showcasing their musical evolution from a bedroom recording project to a full-fledged band.
Jesca Hoop, another Manchester-based artist, delves into personal and societal themes in her album “Designer Citizen.” Embracing the role of producer for the first time, Jesca navigates themes of loss, transition, and the human experience, creating a profound collection of songs that reflect her artistic growth and self-discovery. Similarly, Audioweb pays homage to Manchester’s spirit in their album “The Ghosts of Manchester,” blending dance music influences with the city’s rich musical heritage to create a heartfelt tribute to their hometown.
In summary, Manchester’s music scene continues to thrive with artists like Inca Babies, Sumos, Jesca Hoop, and Audioweb pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds while honoring the city’s musical legacy. Each artist brings a unique perspective and musical style, contributing to the diverse tapestry of music emerging from this historic city in England.