James

How did you come to work at North?

It was a gradual involvement over the years that started what must be getting close to 20 years ago.  I worked on their very early websites, designed posters and bits and bobs before eventually being asked to pitch for North’s branding. Then the brewery started up and then the rest is history…. North are keeping me nice and busy!

What was your first memorable beer experience?

North Bar has been intertwined with many memorable beer firsts for me… First time I tried white beer like Dentergems… the first time I tried strong Belgian ales like Duvel (back in the 90s it was both rare and very exciting)…  first time I tried lambic beers and so on…But the VERY first memorable beer experience I had was drinking Deuchars IPA with my brother (Robert) when we were just old enough to drink. It was amazing. Bold, creamy and very hoppy it was unlike anything we’d had before. We’d always order this at Bar Tat in Ilkley where we both liked at the time. It’s a bit depressing to revisit Deuchars today as it seems to have changed beyond belief (or maybe we’ve changed)… Still, it doesn’t take away from the memory of it or the journey into increasingly hoppy beers it triggered.

What have you been listening to lately?

Lots of stuff. I’ve been really enjoying:

“Cue” by Andrew Pekler
“Glassworks” by Philip Glass (the recently expanded version of this includes “In The Upper Room” which I adore)
“The Sinking of the Titanic” by Gavin Bryars / Philip Jeck / Alter Ego
“Public Strain” by Women
“Brass Neck Evocation / Gospel Chops” by Reet Maff’l (featuring the wonderful Andrew DR Abbott)
“Tomorrow’s Gone” by Charlie Megira

This short list is frustrating because it doesn’t cover enough of what I’m listening to…  I work to music constantly, every day, all day so it’s hard to give a brief answer. I love sharing what I’m listening to with others and I love getting good recommendations!

What is your favourite spot for a drink?

Currently this is Dukes in Halifax. It’s walking distance (just about) from where I live and they always have a great rotating selection of delicious DIPA, sours and cask beers! They even have North Brewing Co on tap from time to time which is very nice to see!