Lads on a mission to win over new fans

The Smashing Lads

SMASHING Lads are looking forward to smashing out a great set at Bier Keller Live this Saturday.

The four-strong lyric-driven Saddleworth outfit - guitar/vocalist Joe Whelan, bass/vocalist Mark Burke, keys man Pete Wood and drummer Keith Unwin - are headlining at Tokyo's on what is the second weekend of Craig Gill and Zak Thompson's new venture.

Frontman Whelan, who went along to Bier Keller Live's successful launch night last weekend, is clearly excited at the prospect of trying to win over a few new fans as they prepare for a high-profile gig in their home town.

Whelan said: "It's incredible really. We've been together for three years and we've still not played a proper gig in Oldham.

"We're all looking forward to it because we know it's a long established venue steeped in history.

"Lots of top bands and musicians have played there, even going back to the days when it was the Hurricane Club.

"It's new now though, and the Bier Keller Live nights have created a buzz in the town.

"Only Burkey has actually played there before, and that was years ago when he was in Wonky Alice.

"Hopefully we'll get a good turnout - we'll certainly be pushing it this week now - and we'd love to appeal to some new listeners."

Whelan has saluted Inspiral Carpets' drummer Gill and DJ Thompson for opening Tokyo's up again for live music showcase nights.

He added: "I suppose you could say it's a bit of a gamble, but I think Oldham has a lot going for it.

"There's loads of bands out there.

"People can get up here on the tram from Manchester now, and I'm guessing that's part of the plan for these nights.

"Good luck to Craig and Zak I say. We'll be supporting the whole thing."

Smashing Lads have been busy recently, releasing 'Bottom Block' onto their website - www.smashinglads.com - and playing at the Wigan Live and Live in Barnsley festivals.

The lads are looking forward to supporting Blacktooth at their album launch show in October, while they have also been in the studio recording a great new track called 'Shares and Retweets'.

Don't forget, another cracking Bier Keller Live gig is set for Friday, with Mossley psychedelic outfit Brahma-Loka set to headline, while Clint Boon will be in the building to belt out a brilliant DJ set.

It's free entry to both gigs, and if the opening weekend was anything to go by, punters are in for a treat.

Keep up to date with all future dates by checking out the Stein Bier Keller Live Facebook page.