NINE Below Zero’s leader Dennis Greaves has always had faith in the healing power of music.

“We’ve just come back from Bosnia, we played a gig at The Pavarotti music centre in Mostar, set up by Brian Eno and U2, and it was a real eye opener,” said Greaves, the band’s leader and founder.

“We went to the the frontline, between East and West Mostar, and it was so sad to see what happened there.

“Some of the people at the show had fought each other to a standstill twenty years ago, and even though it was lovely to be there, you could still sense a bit of raw tension.”

He added: “The folk there were so welcoming, though, with a genuine warmth for music.

“After the show this kid, no older than 14, came up to me with his big guitar.

“Within a couple of minutes I was teaching him Freddie King and BB King licks and all his friends were joining in.

“His parents had suffered the consequences of that terrible war, but in a small way music opens so many doors and that was a great example.

“A great song or a fantastic live show is such a powerful medium, and can be a great healer.”

Greaves, Mark Feltham and Brian Bethell were reunited with Mickey ‘Stix’ Burkey for a one-off 30th anniversary show in 2012.

Now Burley has made the move permanent and the band make a welcome return to the Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival in Colne at the end of the month.

“Colne is every bit as special as any festival in the world, it has such a great vibe,” said Dennis.

“The first time we went up there our bus broke down in Manchester and we had to get a taxi to Colne.

“We just about made the show, but I’m glad we did and we are certainly honoured to be going back there again.”

Dennis adds: “To be back on tour with all the guys is incredible – the energy, enthusiasm and the magic are back.

“We never had a hit single but we became a cult band with an almost fanatical following.

“It is great fun to reconnect with the fans.”

Nine Below Zero boast an incredible history, recording Don’t Point Your Finger at London’s Olympic Studio in 1981 – and Greaves says the experience was inspiring because of the names who recorded there in the past.

He adds: “We were walking in the footsteps of some of the all-time greats.

“Led Zeppelin’s first album was recorded there, along with Who’s Next and Beggars Banquet by the Rolling Stones. It was the most inspiring experience.

“But you also have to look forward don’t you?

“It is 35 years since we did our first record, and we’ve got a new album released this month.

“I’m really proud of the new songs and there’s a great energy in the record.

“A lot of bands these days like to go for the safe option and they live on their past.

“Music has become too corporate and you have to stay creative to stay hungry.”

Nine Below Zero play the International stage at Colne Muni on Monday, August 31. For full details visit www.bluesfestival.co.uk or call 01282 661234.