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That said, despite her tales of the city coming with an alt-country twang, Emma is the first to admit that there is something of the usual Manchester sound to her music.

"I would describe the music on this album as a combination of folk, country and blues, but there is a bit of indie in there too. I guess it is one part miserable country - in a good way, I hope - and one part love ballads. Or maybe that’s the same thing?"

Emma Black

Whether it is or not is up to the listener, but what is definite is that Emma’s debut album, Where Dark Horses Roam, is an intriguing prospect, right down to the esoteric title track.

"Where Dark Horses Roam is the third track on the album. It’s a song about dying the death of a native warrior - I am inclined to agree with the ethos that we, other animals and plants are of equal importance as the Native Americans - and many others – do.

"Also, it’s about the journey before death, moving through hardships and loosing ego. Admittedly, I did write it after going through a particularly difficult period in my life, but it really isn’t meant to be morbid. I don’t see death as something to be feared, though I really do love life!"

Gabriel Minnikin

That loss of ego allows Emma not only to produce stunningly honest songs, but also be happy to share the spotlight with other musicians. One such moment is Fly, which features the deep rumble of Gabriel Minnikin, as Emma explains:

"He is a very talented songwriter from Canada, who now lives in Manchester. I am lucky to know lots of really good players and he kindly came and put his energy into some of the recordings on this album."

Such intensity of content and open-heartedness isn’t unique to Emma, but unlike many other songwriters, she’s not about to shy away from the honesty of her tracks.

"I don’t worry about revealing too much of myself in song. I think no person’s experiences are unique and I am just relating things that other people have been through. It is the one place for me that I feel safe to express what I feel. We are a self indulgent lot, us songwriters you know!"

If self-indulgence breeds the type of album that Emma has produced, then you could only hope for more of it. Yet whether it strikes a chord with the record buying public remains to be seen. For Emma, she just hopes that it touches some hearts and allows her to continue making music.

"In a business sense, I hope to create enough interest to get some financial backing so I can get out on the road and play good venues and pay myself and my players properly."

One listen to Where Dark Horses Roam and you wouldn’t deny her such a thing. Forget the alt prefix; if Emma’s anything to go by, it might well be time for the rise of Manc-country.

Where Dark Horse Roam is available now. Emma Black plays Night and Day on Sunday 2 September, alongside Gabriel Minnikin, Ragnhild and others. Tickets are £3.