PROMISING youngsters Earl play one of Manchester's top venues this week as they aim to spread word of their talent outside their native East Lancashire.

The all-girl three-piece, who play Band On The Wall on Tuesday, have so far ignored early approaches from music managers and are concentrating on fine-tuning their moody, blissed-out, jazz-rock sound.

They will be appearing on the bill alongside North West bands Murryhills and Indigo.

Their intriguing mix of blues, jazz and dark rock has helped the students build a strong reputation on the local music circuit and they have started writing material for an album. Singer Ruth Daniel, 17, from Brierfield, her sister Fiona, 15, and school pal Lizzie Evans, 17, from Earby, formed the band when they were at Skipton Girls' High School.

The highlight of their short career so far was an appearance at the fringe of this year's Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival in Colne. Their live sound bewitches some listeners and baffles others as Ruth's powerful voice echoes out over her unpredictable guitar playing, and Lizzie and Fiona's relaxed but hard-hitting rhythm provides a solid backbone.

For details of Tuesday's gig call the venue on 0161 833 0682.

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