THE Showponies are set for their debut appearance in Nelson next Friday.

But it's only the first of three gigs their frontman James Fraser will play for three different bands over the following week.

The hectic seven-day schedule sees the musician fronting his own band at the Cricket Club, joining The Rubbish for their headline spot and then completing the hat-trick of shows at the Mechanics with the Milltown Brothers.

Having put The Showponies together after the Milltown Brothers' fall from grace in the mid-'90s, James's new band draws from the same well of influences.

He said: "It started out just as an outlet for the music after we split up. I couldn't just turn off from music after being so involved for so long."

Working in a tiny studio in London, the guitarist and bassist taught himself to write and record his own material.

Keeping the same '60s pop feel of his former band, by the time he returned North the songs and music were all in place and it was just a case of getting the right personnel around him.

But whereas the Milltowns spent most of their working life on the road, The Showponies are very different.

James said: "We did so much touring with the Milltowns, I just couldn't pack up a Transit van and start touring the toilet venues of the UK.

"We rehearse a lot but don't do many shows and so when Bruce Thomas asked us to support them, I thought the chance to play to a decent crowd would be really good for us."

After opening the gig, James, will then swap lead guitar and vocals for bass and take his place alongside Bruce and The Rubbish.

Billed as the Never Say Never Show, it's a one-off chance to catch one of Pendle finest bands of recent times.

Having supported Status Quo, twice at Wembley Arena, the lads -- who blend their Santana/Kinks influences into a fun set -- still have a strong following.

James said: "Doing The Rubbish will be just such a good laugh and I know all the songs from the Quo gigs I did."

Seven days later he'll make his final appearance of the week when he rejoins the Milltown Brothers in Burnley.

With a new album in the bag and tour dates in London about to be confirmed, the lads are bidding to make a comeback.

Speaking about the album, which was recorded above The Derby Arms, in Colne, James said: "I think it's going to be very good and if we can get the running order right, one we can be very proud of.

"The way it was recorded above the boozer and the atmosphere around that time has given it a very earthy, very Northern vibe. "

As well as the first airing of the new material, fans have also been promised that the hit singles and classic tracks will also be included.

The Showponies support The Rubbish at Nelson Cricket Club on Friday, March 28 and The Milltown Brothers play at Burnley Mechanics on Friday, April 4.