Liverpool independent radio station Melodic Distraction launches venue, Melodic Bar

Liverpool-based independent radio station Melodic Distraction has launched a new venue, Melodic Bar. 

The opening is the result of a Kickstarter campaign launched after the organisation lost its original home in the Baltic Triangle neighbourhood. Raising more than £36,000, the crew have now built a new hub comprising two shipping containers — a studio at the top, with coffee shop, beer and cocktail bar at ground level. 

"This space is a product of Liverpool's strong sense of grassroots community spirit," Melodic Distraction Director James Zaremba told RA. "A stark contrast to the top-down, multi-million-pound flat building approach that's seen the city recently stripped of its UNESCO World Heritage site status." 

Proceeds from the bar will be reinvested in the station, presenters, and the Liverpool music scene. In-house radio shows will soundtrack the lower-level bar, while local artists will also be invited to perform intimate shows. Art exhibitions, record fairs, workshops, and dances will also feature on the regular programme. 

Earlier this summer, legendary Liverpool shop 3B Records also found itself without a home as a result of disagreements with the landlord. In May, the city hosted a series of COVID-19 test events, including a 3,000 capacity warehouse rave.