All good things must come to an end - but to describe Nightshift as merely "a good thing" would be a gross understatement. For the last 35 years, thanks to the tireless commitment and labour of editor Ronan Munro, the magazine has been a steadfast champion for the music scene in Oxford and its environs.
With an ear for quality and talent regardless of genre, Ronan has given vital exposure to countless bands and artists, many of whom have gone on to greater prominence regionally and nationally (and many more of whom haven't, but should have) - not only through publishing interviews and reviews within the magazine, but also through coordinating the much-loved Punt nights showcasing new music. He has routinely been enthusiastic, supportive and nurturing, but never fawning or uncritical.
What's more, Ronan has also quite rightly sought to acknowledge the efforts of all of those who contribute to the health of the whole ecosystem: label owners, venue managers, promoters and festival organisers, sound and recording engineers, record shops. They, and Nightshift too, have been key to how Oxford has been able to punch above its weight musically for decades.
Little wonder that the announcement that he would be going into retirement has prompted an avalanche of tributes paid by musicians, punters and more. For my own part, I'm eternally grateful to him for granting me the opportunity to see my gubbins published in Nightshift's pages during my years living in Oxford and Abingdon. It's an absolute honour to have been a very small part of the magazine's rich history.
With the June issue now published, all that remains is the farewell party. Sunday evening sees Young Knives, The Unbelievable Truth and others pay tribute at the Bullingdon. Unfortunately I can't be there in person, but will be raising a glass to Nightshift and Ronan from afar.
No comments:
Post a Comment