When in Rome

BEATS:

THE Miserable Rich took their name from an experience they had at an aristocratic wedding in Rome.

Formed in 2007, the group released their second LP “Of Flight and Fury” last month.

The lads — Will Calderbank, James de Malplaquet, Mike Siddell, Jim Briffett and Rhys Lovell — began with the intention of making unusual acoustic modern music.

Described as chamber pop, the group are famed for using a variety of string instruments to create their unique sound. Catch them live at Manchester’s Band on the Wall tonight.


Proud legacy

BEATLES meets Bowie is probably the best way to describe The Visitors.

The ex-Factory Records band have put their acoustic roots behind them to make the late Tony Wilson proud.

New single “I’m In Love (With Myself)” was released last month to critical acclaim and the lads are hitting the road to celebrate.

You can see for yourself what all the fuss is about when the lads play Manchester’s Night and Day on Friday and Sound Control in Oxford Road on Saturday, June 26.


Brown atones

US RnB star Chris Brown is determined to put the events of the past year behind him and concentrate on what he does best.

The singer, famous for hits such as “With You”, “Run It” and “Forever”, was arrested and charged with assault and making criminal threats after he hit his girl friend, singer Rihanna in March, 2009. He was sentenced to community service and five years probation as well as being sent for domestic violence counselling.

His UK tour, which calls at the Manchester Apollo on Friday, is dedicated to his fans for their ongoing support and he will debut tracks from his third album “Graffiti”.