"We are five men making a loud noise with drums, bass, guitar, keys, and a cheap Seventies synthesiser," says My Federation frontman Lee "Muddy" Baker who formed the band after a career as an art forger failed to fulfill his deepest creative desires.
"I used to copy paintings for the wealthy who could afford expensive paintings but didn't want to pay for them. I was forging these paintings thinking, 'This is too much in the background. I need to be on stage.'"
Living on his earnings from painting, Lee built up a career in music production. From his home studio he has produced albums for former James frontman and Brighton resident Tim Booth, as well as rising star Lisa Lindley-Jones.
My Federation's influences are an eclectic and unlikely selection, including Led Zeppelin, Herbie Hancock, Neu!, Pink Floyd and Siouxsie And The Banshees.
Lee is also a fan of metal stalwarts Motorhead and Saxon. "Biff Byford's white studded codpiece!" he exclaims. "Fantastic!"
He is more serious but no less enthusiastic when describing his band's sound. "It's really upbeat stuff. The best way I can describe it is like an electronic rock Beach Boys. There are loads of harmonies."
The band's Honey Bee EP is released next month on Eye Industries, and they will be debuting new songs at the gig on Thursday. Along with Lee, the group includes bassist Neil McKenzie, synth player Greg Saunders (aka "The Octopus"), Robin Waterson on keys and Dylan Amey on drums.
Starts 8pm. Tickets are £4/£3. Call 01273 702333.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article