STARSAILOR crashed into the charts this week with their first official release.

The group, fronted by Chorley 20-year-old James Walsh, landed at number 18 in the Top 40. Their EP Fever was released by EMI after fans demanded to hear some of their "untouched" work.

The three tracks were recorded last summer as the group looked for a record label. Inside the sleeve of the current CD, the band boast that the music is in its original form, adding that they cannot rule out it being re-recorded.

Speaking about his chart success, James said: "We welcome any success that comes along because we know where we want to go. But being respected is more important."

The group are preparing to lay down tracks ahead of an album release later this year. They have been taking part in the NME tour of university venues over the past month -- one of which was broadcast on Radio 1.

It was their second performance on the station, having spent a week being promoted by Steve Lamacq in January.

For anyone who has yet to experience their sound, and the wide vocal range of James, a gig has been arranged for the end of next month.

They will do a full set on March 28 at the Hop and Grape in Manchester.