MINING nuggets of funk, high-octane rock, and contemporary jazz from the musical coalface, Atomic Brass are tearing up the dancefloors.

They got together a year ago out of a burning desire to play music that appealed to the feet as much as the ears, and this crazy quintet are proving Premier League class.

A talent scout was so impressed with their riot jazz they were invited to open up the half time entertainment at Hull City’s KC Stadium for their big games against Manchester City and Liverpool.

Led by Burnley trumpeter Matthew Clare, he said: “It was bonkers, the crowd loved us.

“We got a standing ovation from the main stand. We’d only done small shows at beer festivals and pubs and clubs, so it was great exposure.

“We’ve gone from winning a battle of the bands competition to playing in front of 50,000 football fans. Incredible.”

Featuring trumpets, tubas, drums and a couple of duelling saxophones, this brass juggernaut will blow your socks off with their mix of covers and a couple of their own songs.

Fuse the energy, verve and passion of Pigbag’s instrumental classic Papa’s Got a Brand new Pig Bag with a stunning cover of Survivor’s Eye of the Tiger and you get the picture.

And add the fact that the band stays true to its roots, bringing the tradition of mobile marching bands firmly into the 21st century with the urgent energy of youth.

“We love spicing up covers, giving them the big Atomic treatment,” said Matthew.

“We do Africa by Toto, Funkytown (Lipps Inc), Livin’ on a Prayer (Bon Jovi), Blame it on the Boogie (The Jacksons) and one of our favourites, Eye of the Tiger. That gets everyone moving, I can tell you.”

Matthew’s background is in the Big Band sound, having played both in the Soul Convicts and the Blackburn with Darwen Big Band.

“That was an amazing experience to play with both of those, and we do have a big band feel when Atomic Brass plays live too,” he said.

“We do pop songs in a brass style – and it seems to work.”

Atomic Brass’ growing reputation has seen them land a coveted support slot for headliner Soweto Kinch at next month’s Preston Jam Music Festival and the saxophonist said: “I’ve heard Atomic’s music, I can’t wait to hear them play live in Preston.”

Soweto Kinch will be appearing at University of Lancashire’s 53 Degrees venue on Saturday, April 1, supported by all-female rising star septet, Nerija, and Atomic Brass as part of the Preston Jam event. The Clitheroe Jazz Festival runs from April 27 to May 1 and artists include Get The Blessing, Jazz Jamaica, YolandaDa Brown Quartet and Soft Machine. Tickets for both events from 01200 421599 or www.thegrandvenue.co.uk