This weekend's clubbing in Manchester

There's been a lot of talk this week about Frank Ocean pitching up with James Blake for a special showcase at the Roadhouse tonight (Blake will be there but not Ocean as far as we know) - but it’s long sold out with only 50 tickets on the door, so good luck with that. Otherwise, there’s plenty else to get your feet stuck into... 

Apollonia - Sankeys, Radium Street, Friday, 11pm
A sort of tech house supergroup, Apollonia consists of Dan Ghenacia, Dyed Soundorom and Shonky, who together, pull together extended sets that travel in surprising directions, as well as providing the expected big moments. Taking control of the basement for four whole hours, they’re joined by Djebali, Oli Furness and Chappell. Upstairs in Spektrum, the sound takes an altogether more pumping approach with cross-genre hero and masterful DJ Paul Woolford in control, supported by a host of local talent.

Nick Hoppner - Soup Kitchen, Stevenson Square, Friday, 11pm 
One of the world’s best respected DJs, predominantly via his involvement in Berlin’s legendary Berghain/Panorama Bar, and former boss of it’s in house label, Ostgut Ton, Nick Hopner is it’s fair to say, a true bastion of very good taste. His new album, 'Folk', has been released to overwhelmingly positive reviews, and offers a refined taste of a man who absorbs more house and techno than most, yet remains a true original. As a DJ, he understandably knows how to take a dancefloor on a real trip, as can be expected during this weekend’s extended set. Support comes from Seelie and residents.

Leftism x NB Audio - Sound Control, Saturday, 11pm
Expect militant drums and freight-weight bass at this extensive and shamelessly banging line-up at Sound Control, headlined by Cern, a New Zealand native known for his ability to keep the largest of crowds on tenterhooks with his unique and incredibly tight mixing ability. Releasing his own highly regarded productions on diverse tastemaker labels such as Renegade Hardware and Commercial Suicide, you should prepare to screw your face up to the max.

Aficionado - Roadhouse, Saturday, 11pm
A bit of an unusual option away from the standard rave fare, but Saturday night in the soon to be shuttered Roadhouse involves a headline set from wistful indie band Horsebeach, whose music recalls the likes of Real Estate with hints of The Smiths. As well as a support slot from the similarly minded Bambi Davidson, the somewhat groovier connection is made with a roster of some of Manchester’s finest vinyl DJs in support, including Aficionado boss, Moonboots and Piccadilly Records’ own Patrick Ryder, and Claremont 56 Paul ‘Mudd’ Murphy on the ones and twos.