Words: Dan Smith
When I saw a Manchester band had released a song with the title ‘161’ I instantly assumed it would be regarding the popular meme ‘0161 Manny on the map’ but I have to say, I was surprised by the actual content and it just goes to show, don’t judge a book by it’s cover.
I wrote this song to pay homage to Chapel Street in our home town, Altrincham, which became famous after the First World War for sending the most men and boys to fight per household of any street in the UK, 161 in total. The song sheds light on the experiences of those left behind and on the memories of life on the street before the boys left.
Frontman Cai Alty on ‘161’
Now as you can see from the above quote, the song isn’t a meme or a jovial play on words about their hometown, it is real, raw, emotive lyricism paying homage to those who were willing to give their lives for our future. I have to say, I listened to this song about 4/5 times on repeat before writing this up and I got a little emotional to be honest. This is a truly beautiful song, I would argue one of the finest songs to come out of Manchester in recent times.
I won’t lie and act as if I knew who The Guest List were before this because frankly I didn’t, but now I do I am so happy that I heard this song. As I said in the title, take inspiration from these boys because this is how you make good music. It’s real, it’s thought provoking and most importantly, it sounds amazing.
Some impressive vocals throughout and a lovely guitar solo in the backend of this relaxing, heartfelt number, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m sure you will too.
Rockstars HQ 
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