Much of the island spent the ’SuperManx’ bank holiday weekend listening and dancing to some of the best local bands.

Whether people shook to the sound of rock and roll, swayed to sultry Latin vibes chilled out to acoustic singer songwriters or skanked the night away to bouncing ska, many town centres and venues embraced the idea of the ’band holiday weekend’.

In scenes unique to the Isle of Man, thousands of people went along to the Villa Marina to watch DC/AC blast through a set of AC/DC classics on Thursday night and Pink Floyd tribute group Pigs on the Wing on Saturday, who thrill the crowd with a stunning light show and set.

In between, Radiohead tribute band OK Computer filled the Promenade Suite.

’Nearly 1,000 people crammed into the Royal Hall and the crowd were up for it the moment the support band Symbollix took to the stage,’ said Lenny Conroy, from Triskel Promotions.

’DC/AC crashed on to the stage complete with a classic DC intro and Paul ’Dockers’ Daugherty rising from the flames of hell.

’The band stomped through a 23-song set with classic anthems and iconic riffs throughout.

’There was no respite for the band who cleared an incredible 150 minutes on stage without a break. A little before midnight and it was all over, the crowd dispersed sweaty but content.’

Lenny also paid tribute top the professionalism of Pigs on the Wings, saying that new guitarist Chris Honour fitted in perfectly with the talent on stage, and that the crowd hung on every note played by James Craig, Pete Williamson, Dick Raine, Chris Glaister, Juan and Jo Callister and Steve Leach.

Saxophonist Sammy J played a flawless set despite still recovering from injury.

’There was a fitting tribute to lost musicians and friends shone on the large screen during Wish You Were Here,a poignant reminder of valued friends no longer with us,’ said Lenny.

’It was a very special song sung back at the band by the emotional crowd.

’These shows were supporting local charity Isle Listen with a bucket collection and very pleased to confirm a staggering £795.23 was raised thanks to the generosity of the bands’ supporters over the weekend.’

Elsewhere, both Castletown and Port Erin sported two days of music in the town, with the ska band Buncha Skankers leading a square full of people dancing in front of the castle in the ancient capital, following on from sets from Lava, Birds and the Beards, Matt Kelly, Theresa McNulty and more.

’It was an absolutely fabulous weekend,’ said Castletown commissioner Carol Quine, one of the organisers.

’I wouldn’t like to guess how many people were there, but its more than I think I’ve ever seen before. Those who were there had a great time.

’I have to thank Steve and Lindsay Rowe for organising the music and ELS for proving the sound.

’There was no trouble and no bother, just a fabulous atmosphere.

’One of my favourite memories were people walking around afterwards with bin bags helping to clear up. It was a fabulous atmosphere.

’I’m already planning a similar event for next year and I’m looking for anyone who would like to be involved and maybe even sponsor it.’

by Mike wade

Twitter:@iomnewspapers