Shandyland has quickly become one of the hottest tickets in town.

The monthly showcase event at the New Beehive in Westgate, Bradford, is the brainchild of promoters Joe Fabian and Alan Gill.

They were fed up with the lack of opportunities for up-and-coming Bradford talent following the demise of established venues in the city.

"Hopefully what we're doing is putting a bit of life back into the scene," said Joe.

"The Beehive seemed to be the perfect place. We wanted somewhere central that people can get to easily and it's gone well so far. It's a bit of a crazy place."

As well as featuring music, Shandyland is a showcase for painting pandemonium with Skipton-based artist Sean.

The latest Shandyland event has been lined up for Thursday when Bradford indie outfit Facelift will be the headline act, supported by Shiny Beast, a Captain Beefheart-inspired band featuring cellist Bela, who also features in The Hiphuggers.

Facelift, who feature Patrick Sherry on vocals and guitar, John McGahey on drums, Tom Bishop on bass, Brendan Sherry on guitar and Alan Beckett on guitar and vocals, made a favourable impression with their debut three-track CD last year.

Since then they have played several showcase gigs in London for two different record companies and are currently writing material for a management company based in Los Angeles.

Last month's Shandyland saw a triumphant performance by The Tansads, one of Joe and Alan's favourite bands. The Wigan-based folk punksters, whose debut album Shandyland was the inspiration behind the name of the new night, were invited to play a headline slot at the New Beehive, with Wyke-based Water in support.

Although Joe and Alan were disappointed by the relatively low turn-out, they are happy with the enthusiasm being generated by the gigs.

"It was a bit different putting on a band like The Tansads. Now we're trying to build things up with local bands," said Joe.

l Doors open on Thursday at 8.30pm and admission is £2.

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