Spirit Studios, 10 Tariff Street, M1 2FF

The Smiths used Spirit Studios as a rehearsal space. Their original bassist, Dale Hibbert, who previously worked at Decibel Studios as an engineer had left Decibel to take up a position at Spirit. It was here that a number of auditions took place for the vacant drummer position. Simon Wolstencroft had turned the permanent position down, so a number of other local drummers were invited to try out. Having not identified any suitable candidates Mike Joyce was auditioned. Despite ingesting some magic mushrooms before the audition he impressed Johnny enough to be offered the gig.

After a short time mulling it over, and some cajoling from Johnny, Mike informed his band-mates in Victim that he was leaving and he became a Smith.

It was also here in November 1982, a few weeks after their debut gig at The Ritz, that Johnny informed Dale that he wasn’t required anymore. The bass spot was given to Johnny’s old friend, Andy Rourke and the line-up was complete.

Dale's book is worth a read for his account of his time in The Smiths.

Spirit Studios was situated in the basement of 10 Tariff Street. The studio was also used by the Stone Roses, The Fall, Buzzcocks and Happy Mondays. Spirit moved to Downing Street and went on to become a training facility for sound recordists. 

10 Tariff Street is situated between Dale St and Hilton Street. The building is now a Northern Monk bar, the toilets are situated in the basement if you want an excuse to nose about a bit.