Over the next few weeks, we’ll be introducing bands coming to town to play this year’s first ever MidWest Friends Fest. Taking place on August 31 at The Southgate House Revival, MidWest Friends Fest features 21 local, regional, and national acts on all 3 stages, as well as a local artist and community partner showcase taking place the first half of the day.

Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Columbus, Ohio’s Manor Gates, an emo/math rock/indie trio who will be making their Cincinnati/NKY debut at this year’s fest.

First, thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for CincyMusic - we really appreciate it!

For our readers who may not know who Manor Gates is and what you’re all about, can you tell us a little bit about the band - how long have you been together, how would you describe your sound?
 We're a 3 piece emo rock band from Columbus, OH and we've been active for almost 3 years. We put out our first EP in June 2022 and released our full length, So Much Brooding, on Refresh Records in November 2023. If you're into loud angry sad music, you'll love us!

You were just in Cincinnati/NKY and played at The Southgate House Revival with Scarlet Street and LayLow, two bands that are also playing MidWest Friends Fest - how was your experience at the venue and with those bands?
 Scarlet Street and Laylow are the absolute homies! Some of the nicest and most talented people we've had the pleasure to play with. The Southgate House Revival is also an amazing venue. So much history it seems and a perfect place for a fest!

Can you tell our readers how you got involved with MidWest Friends Fest, and what you’re most looking forward to?
 Scarlet Street mentioned they wanted to put on a fest last December and asked us if we wanted to do it. This was before any kind of bands or venue, but we were instantly down to play because we could tell they were trying to do something BIG. We knew we had to be a part of that, whatever it was going to be.

We're really looking forward to seeing so many great bands in one place. A lot of our favorites in the scene are on the lineup and we love when we get to be fans and not just "a band" at shows.

Have you been to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky before? What are you excited about doing or seeing while you’re in the area?
 Scarlet Street keeps talking a big game about how good Gold Star chili is so we are going to have to see what's what this time around.

Is there anything else you would like to add or mention?
 Check us out in the Revival Room at 5:30! Follow us on socials at @manorgatesmusic!

 
Find out more about Manor Gates on the MidWest Friends Fest website, where you can also stream music from all 21 bands, follow along on social media, and purchase tickets to the event. If Facebook is more your speed, check out the event page and be sure to RSVP to let your friends know you’re ready to have some fun.

Check out the stage lineups and set times below - we’ll see you at the fest!