LET us pray . . . Twisted Wheel leader Jonny Brown has embarked on a solo career and his appearance at St John’s Church in Blackburn will be a chance to hear just what new direction this will take him in.

Brown is headlining the Chapel Sessions at the Victoria Street venue in the town centre on September 27 and promoter Danny Salazzo said: “St John’s is an amazing venue, and this will be a really special gig.

“When I walked into the church I was just blown away by the acoustics and the atmosphere.”

Twisted Wheel split in July, having supported Oasis at Heaton Park in 2007.

The Oldham four piece toured with Kasabian, The View, Ian Brown and Paul Weller.

“Tickets are going really well and I’d love to see a capacity audience for what should be a great evening for Blackburn’s music scene and the first music event at this venue.”

Salazzo, who booked freaky dancer Bez from the Happy Mondays and former Inspiral Carpets singer Clint Boon for sell-out shows at Rawtenstall’s Artisan Club earlier this year, added: “There has been a huge decline in bands coming to Blackburn, but through this great new initiative — Blackburn is Open — we are beginning to see music coming back to the town.

“It is a great idea and already we’ve seen a lot more happening at King George’s Hall, with a great Autumn line-up.

“Hopefully, this is just the beginning of a new chapter for Blackburn’s live music prospects because we are trying to get the town thriving again.”

St John’s Church was founded in 1788, with Henry Sudell contributing half of the £8,000 construction cost.

It finally closed in 1975 but now seems to have a new lease of life as the town’s newest arts and music venue.

The Chapel Sessions – September 27. Jonny Brown (ex-Twisted Wheel), Chris Hinnigan, Roosevelt Room, Jamie Hamilton.

St John’s Church, Victoria Street, Blackburn (7.30pm until 11pm) Tickets £7 at Blackburn Museum (01254 667130) www.wegottickets.com or call Danny at Rebelgrooves, 07434 047509.