On paper I wouldn't go to see this band in a million years. Melodic grunge-pop is their thing, apparently, but it's certainly not mine.

So it's lucky I caught this young bunch of Mancunian rockers live before I read too much about them (once in this very venue, supporting Kaiser Chiefs and again at The Engine Rooms a few months ago).

Punching out one fast-paced, angst-ridden tune after another, Nine Black Alps were relentless in their attempt to rock the crowd.

With his long but smart haircut, cute baby face and tidy dress, lead singer Sam Forrest looked an unlikely candidate for the next Kurt Cobain. But as the band headbanged around the stage, played guitars with drumsticks and delivered the catchiest songs you'll hear this side of an Abba/QOTSA merger, it's clear they have all the ingredients for possible Nirvana-type world domination.