RISING East Lancashire outfit Re:verb play two gigs in the next few days in preparation for their most important date so far.

The five-piece play The Carlton in Burnley tonight and the Horderns in Feniscowles on Sunday at 4pm.

Both gigs are warm-ups for the prestigious IPO Festival at The Beatles' birthplace -- the Cavern Club in Liverpool -- which runs from October 18 to 26.

The band were invited to play after festival organisers went on to the band's website and liked what they heard. Lead guitarist Mark Smith, from Barrowford, said: "I just got the call one Saturday morning from America asking us if we'd like to take part. It was certainly a good way to get out of bed."

Bands from all over the world will play the International Pop Overthrow Festival.

"This is a really big step for us," said Mark. "We have been around since 1999 but only for about a year with the current line-up. It feels like things are finally coming together for us. We've had one of our songs used for a film soundtrack in the States and we've played at this year's Arts in the Park Festival.

"But to play the Cavern is something else."

The band are laying on a coach for fans to see them in Liverpool and anyone interested can go to this weekend's gigs to reserve a place. Re:verb are vocalist Jon-Maelor Hughes, Phil Parker on guitar and vocals, Lee Sharples on bass, lead guitarist Mark Smith and Alastair Lee on drums.