FOR my last music interview before I go off to pastures new I decided to have a word with popular Stevenage band Hooverhead. They ve got a gig coming up in the town this weekend and I know it will be packed. So, I thought that beforehand I would get to gr

FOR my last music interview before I go off to pastures new I decided to have a word with popular Stevenage band Hooverhead.

They've got a gig coming up in the town this weekend and I know it will be packed. So, I thought that beforehand I would get to grips with what they've got going on.

The band are Luke Stevens and Jon Gibson on guitars, vocals and bass, Omar Mirza on drums and Dave Bell on guitar.

Luke said: "After I got back from travelling in 2003, I thought it would be a laugh to start jamming with some friends.

"After a few practices we had a handful of songs and were asked to play at a small festival in Benington, we realised we needed a name and after a few beers one night we decided on Hooverhead!"

Since forming they have enjoyed playing local gigs and festivals as well as venues in London, Brighton and Bedfordshire.

Dave said: "We've also had two stints in the studio recording our album Skid Meat."

The band's influences are everything from rock, punk, to drum 'n' bass and samba.

Jon said: "We have enjoyed playing all of our gigs really, we can't say we've had a bad one.

"We've had some interesting ones when we've had a few beers or there's been a naked man running around, but we always have fun and try to keep it different!"

Luke said: "For the future we are writing new material. We want to get back in the studio to record a new EP when we have raised the funds which will mean playing more gigs.

"Our next London gig is in Park Royal on February 16 and we are hoping to play some festivals this summer."

Meanwhile there is also an acoustic project going on.

Luke said: "The acoustic project is Jon and myself. We've written some beats and bass and used some samples to create a backing track which we play live acoustic guitars and sing over the top of. "

Apparently Dave has been trying to get on The Weakest Link to raise some money for recording.

Jon said: "He's written in four times but hasn't heard anything back as yet."

Anyone who is prepared to face the wrath of Anne Robinson to make some money for the band must love it!

Hooverhead are supporting the Defekters on February 9 at the Coach and Horses in Stevenage Old Town. Check out www.myspace.com/hooverhead for more.