Let's have a cull. Enough of mediocre performances from mediocre bands - let's just all watch The Zutons all of the time.

The Zutons in The Soundhaus could, could, be compared to The Beatles in The Cavern - you may scoff but last night the latest exports from Merseyside looked completely out of place - a much bigger stage awaits them I'm sure.

Their decision a couple of years ago to hold off on launching themselves until after The Coral had set the world alight seems to have been the right one. There's nothing worse than getting labelled within a scene - it's very difficult to shake off. Especially as, along with The Stands, The Zutons look to have something very special about them - I'm expecting long, exciting and groundbreaking careers from both bands.

The Zuton's style is impossible to pin down - which is instantly appealing. In parts you think: 'god, they're making good, honest 70s American style rock' with strong riffs and enormous rhythm sections. Then the next song starts and you think: 'what the....? Is this Ska?!'. Then you stop trying to dissect it because you're never going get it, and just enjoy the show. Even their website describes it as "blues grass rootsy stompy music" - ok, so what's that? It's like trying to write a synopsis for a David Lynch film!

Their main strength is all five members are brilliant, brilliant instrumentalists - and that includes their voices. The Most Valuable Player though must be drummer Sean Payne (brother of The Stands' singer Howie) who adds so much to the varying styles the band play. They also look like they have an element of madness about them - and a great front-man in Dave McCabe.

Bring on the debut album.

Jon Raitt

In Weekender