About us
Contrast was founded by two DJs and record collectors with over three decades of combined experience in the events industry.
We specialise in uncovering your brand’s unique sonic identity and curating the perfect entertainment programme to enhance guest experience, increase repeat trade, and boost profits.
Our Mission
The entertainment booking industry is notorious for double bookings, no-shows, miscommunication and tedious admin.
We believe there’s another way.
We’re spent years simplifying the booking process, removing all unnecessary admin, streamlining communications and payments, and consistently delivering the highest quality entertainment.
We take all the stress out of music management, freeing up managers’ time to do what they do best —all while ensuring exceptional entertainment which elevates customer experience and reinforces brand identity.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be the #1 trusted events partner of boutique hotel groups, international co-living and co-working brands, multi-site hospitality operators, wellness retreats and private members clubs across the UK and Europe within the next 5 years.
Our Why
We specialise in programming reliable and professional resident artists who understand your company culture and embody your brand’s musical identity. From local DJs to solo acoustic acts, full live bands and headline artists, we source the best talent to engage your customers.
We also specialise in producing special, one-off activations and bespoke events, working to a specific brief and delivering elevated entertainment to create lasting impressions on your audience.
Meet the team
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Co-founder & Director
Kevin Swindells (aka Swindells) has been a familiar face on the Manchester scene for over 15 years, earning himself a reputation as a multi-genre party-starter, known for his uplifting selections, technical flair and infectious positivity.
Recently completing his 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training course, Kev is building a network that balances partying and wellness, with the consistent thread being a deep belief that music has to power to move people.
Continually inspired by music’s ability to harness positive change, social cohesion and a sense of community, Swindells is on a mission to bring good music to the forefront of the hospitality industry.
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Co-founder & Director
A technically gifted DJ, avid record collector and stage manager at some of Europe’s best-loved festivals, Jim Spratling (aka Jim Bane) has served his time in the music industry - and has the contact book to prove it.
Manager of Eastern Bloc Records in Manchester for more than 20 years, he’s formed close relationships with the best local talent in the city, as well as visiting international headline DJs.
Holding DJ residencies at some of the best bars, restaurants and club nights the city has to offer - including the world-renowned Warehouse Project - Jim continues to be an integral member of the music scene in Manchester.
Never miss a beat
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