Stone gets the ball rolling again

OLDHAM band Porter’s Forces are back in business after drafting an experienced new lead vocalist in James Stone, and additional rhythm guitarist Patrick Prince.

Porters’ progress had been checked slightly in recent months following the sudden departure of previous vocalist Niall Buckley, who opted to focus purely on his studies at Leeds University.

However, now 28-year-old Stone — formerly of Soul Saboteur — and 22-year-old Chadderton lad Prince have been drafted in and it’s a case of “onwards and upwards” for the energetic young outfit.

The band — who have released two singles so far, “Shadows” and “By the book” — returned in their new five-strong guise at Manchester’s Grillstock festival, and Royton-based lead guitarist James Fearns (22) is feeling plenty of positive vibes.

He said: “We’re definitely back at it now.

“Losing Niall did set us back a little bit, but the Grillstock gig went really well and people seemed to enjoy it.

“It’s been quite refreshing to be honest. Getting a couple of new faces in has worked so far.”

Porter’s have got further dates booked at Manchester’s Dry Bar, the Eagle in Salford, and recently impressed at the Find your Feet festival in Middleton.

You can check out the band on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, iTunes and Spotify.
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