Now Then 11: Spectacular birthday bash at Yellow Arch

Now Then is throwing a huge multi-room party with bands, MCs and DJs to celebrate its eleventh birthday this Saturday.

Headlining is socially-conscious London poet and rapper Amy True, who brings her full band with horn section to Yellow Arch Studios in Kelham Island.

"We're really excited to have Amy partying with us," said Joe Kriss of Now Then. "She's recently supported Benjamin Zephaniah on tour, and is definitely one of the most exciting new voices in UK hip-hop."

The magazine's hometown of Sheffield is represented by Papa Soul, a nine-piece funk outfit who put a contemporary spin on Motown's dancefloor grooves.

Saturday's party will also showcase DJs from some of the city's most forward-thinking club nights and collectives.

"I'm looking forward to Román Rocha's set," said Kriss. "He's a founder and resident at La Rumba, who've brought globally-inspired house and disco to some of Sheffield's best parties for a few years now."

Apricot Ballroom's Joi La Frique will be spinning electro, funk and Italo, with bass music from Vibrations resident and Two Foot Left host Nez.

The first edition of Now Then was published in 2008 with a cover by street artist Phlegm, who returned to illustrate issue 61.

With 140 editions in the last eleven years the magazine is now a cornerstone of South Yorkshire's arts and culture scene, shouting about new artists and giving a platform to first-time writers.

"Getting the mag out every month has been a labour of love for the past decade, but it's the extensive network of writers, musicians, artists and activists that make Now Then what it is", said Kriss.

"Come party with us, and toast to eleven more. It's gonna be a big one."

Now Then 11 with Amy True and Papa Soul is this Saturday night at Yellow Arch. Buy tickets here.

Sam Gregory