Umbrella Assassins originally got together in November 2006, with each of them wanting to bring a different influence to the mix and they had their first gig in February last year.

Members in the band include lead guitarist Andrew Plumb, 26, vocalist and rhythm Steven Church, 25, bassist Garry McKervill, 30, and Luke Andrews, 21, who provides the beats.

Now, more than 60 gigs later, Umbrella Assassins are planning another busy year and will be recording four new tracks at Old School Studios, in Bury, in the middle of March.

They are also planning to play further afield, too, with a couple of gigs in Holland, in August.

Andrew said: "We supported Nine Black Alps, Pete and the Pirates, The Start and Good Books in 2007, which was all a bit lairy at first but once we got used to it and relaxed a bit it was all bacon sarnies and ginger beer.

"It's always been part of the dream to meet new people who are on our wavelength and like our sound. The best feeling any musician or lyricist can get is when a complete stranger appreciates what your doing and takes the time to listen."

Umbrella Assassins describe their sound as punk and the new songs are taking that a little further.

Steven often describes them as a 'marmite' band because they tend to split opinion and often provoke a reaction in the crowd.

Catch the band play at Studio 3, in Bury, on February 1, or at Club Brazilia, in Bury, on February 5.

To find out more visit www.myspace.com/umbrellaassassins