Rochdale Music Stories: Spotlight on P*STARR

Rochdale’s music scene has always thrived on artists who bring something fresh, grounded and unapologetically homegrown, and few embody that spirit better than P*STARR. Known as the originators of the “Northern Funk” sound, the five‑piece have carved out a reputation for thick, filthy grooves and high‑energy performances that have been lighting up stages across the region since forming in 2020. With influences spanning James Brown to Jamiroquai, Thin Lizzy to Vulfpeck, their sound is as eclectic as it is unmistakably working‑class, rhythmic and raw.

As proud members of Rochdale borough’s creative community, P*STARR are taking part in Rochdale Music Stories, a project celebrating the musicians, venues and moments that have shaped the town’s musical heritage. For their contribution, the band are putting their own spin on the Inspiral Carpets classic Keep The Circle Around, bringing their signature funk‑driven weight to a cornerstone of Greater Manchester music history. And we can’t wait to hear it.

Ahead of the project’s release on 14th March, we caught up with Martin McDermott from P*STARR to talk about the band’s journey, their connection to Rochdale, and what it meant to reimagine such an iconic track.

Can you tell us a bit about your own creative journey - how did you get started in music?

As a band we have come together through family and friends and a deep love for creating and performing. We all individually bring different ideas and styles we gravitate to which when combined collectively help create our unique sound we call “Northern Funk”.

How has Rochdale shaped or supported your career as an artist? Are there any local venues, events, or people who’ve been especially important to your journey?

Rochdale has shaped our music because it’s the town that most of us grew up in. We’ve shared highs and lows in the town, all of which have directly inspired and influenced our music. The people of Rochdale have always supported our music, and we always feel the love wherever we perform.

Many, many people have had an important role in where we are as a band, from venue owners and festival organisers right down to our own family and friends who have always supported and encouraged our endeavours.

How would you describe Rochdale’s creative scene right now?

Rochdale has always had a strong music scene, and the current crop of artists and performers is no different. Rochdale’s music scene is a real community and so many bonds have grown through music in our town. It’s a way of life for many.

Which song are you covering for the Rochdale Music Stories project? Did you know the song beforehand?

We are covering “Keep The Circle Around” by Inspiral Carpets. It’s not a track that was really in our conscious, but we have really enjoyed trying to create something new while respecting the original.

What has been your favourite experience, being part of the Rochdale Music Stories project?

Working with the guys at Voltalab studios is always a pleasure. It’s a real shining light in the town. Giving artists the tools they need to make their ideas and passion a tangible reality.

What’s been a standout moment for you as a musician or performer in Rochdale?

We have had many standout moments as a band, from performing at large scale festivals to playing small music-geared venues in and around the area. We have also appeared on radio while promoting new material which has also been a highlight.

What advice would you give to emerging artists in the borough?

Be genuine. Make music for you first. Yes, music is for the listener, but the first listener is YOU. Dare to be different and embrace your roots and community, collaborate wherever you can, and have fun!

This year, Rochdale is Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture 2025-26! What does this title mean to you personally and/or creatively? 

It’s a chance to show case the amazing talent and creativity of the town. Rochdale has had difficulty in recent years, but we think it is more than ready to exhibit some of it many unique qualities, old and new.

What would you love to see more of in Rochdale’s music or arts community moving forward?

We are excited for Rochdale to finally get a chance to show its diversity, its creativity and to change opinions of a wonderful town often misrepresented.

And finally, what’s next for you - any exciting projects or performances coming up, aside from Rochdale Music Stories?

Moving forward, we would love to see more events showcasing bands and artists from Rochdale. Venues supporting artists and vice versa. Live music is unique and should be shared collectively to fully appreciate it. People need live music and live music needs people. Some of our biggest inspirations have come from attending live performances, and as performers we feel it’s our duty to try and inspire current/future musicians in their endeavours. It’s giving back.

Is your music available online for people to listen? If so, where?

We hope to release our new album early 2026 and as well as performing in and around the Greater Manchester area. We will also continue to work on more original music.

There music is available on all major streaming platforms under P*STARR.

To find out about new releases as well as current music and activities, check out P*STARR’s Instagram @pstarr.funk and on Facebook, and search P*STARR on your favourite streaming service.

Grab your ticket to the Rochdale Music Stories launch on14th March here.

To keep up to date with Rochdale’s fast-paced arts and culture scene, follow us on Instagram @Rochdale.Creates.