The Steeples stand head and shoulders above the current crop of wannabe stars, indeed they tower above some of the established indie rocksters in the charts.

These four Scousers headed down to The Beehive pub in Old Town, Swindon, with all the panache and swagger of a band that has got it together - big time.

Tight and professional musicians all gel together to create a refreshing new sound.

But that's not all. These guys have that certain something - the It factor rather than the X factor - star quality in bucketfuls.

They made everyone smile the second they took to the stage and we were all still grinning like idiots as the last note died away.

The two front guys have charisma to die for and they are up on stage to party and everyone is invited.

The lead singer, Andy Culshaw, has a sharp delivery that can rival the Kate Nash raps - and yes I do know who Kate Nash as well as Lily Allen - despite being 40-something.

The singing musical hobbit, about 20-something, is not renowned for his tact, commenting on his audience's age or musical knowledge doesn't go down well.

The lead guitarist, Dan Rankin, is a total joy, from his intricate, exciting riffs to his impish grin he's got rock n' roll stamped all over him.

They have a tophole rhythm section Alex Caskie on drums and Chris Hutchinson on bass who treated us to some give-it-some wellie' drumming mixed with some smooth, directional beats. The backline gave a solid base for happy songs such as Britney's Tears and Loosy Lucy that danced out across the pub.

The only two covers were Lily Allen and a ripping version of an old 1960s hit Poison Ivy.

Marcus a blues guitarist gave a short but corking performance in between The Steeples' set.

Lovely blues voice, stunning guitar and a cracking sense of humour all added up to a stonking night of great music.

If the Steeples don't make it into the charts it will be a scandal.

Flicky Harrison