Decoration in session for Huw Stephens

Decoration formed in 2002 when long-time friends Stuart Murray (vocals), Steve Taylor (drums) and Steven Dickinson (guitar) from Bolton hooked up with Sam Noble(bass), who they found through an old acquaintance from their days at Sheffield University.

With the exception of Steven who commutes from Leeds, the band are now all based in London. So are the crowds friendlier up north than in London or is that a myth?

"It's very hairy. In London you don't get cheered you get jeered," says Stuart. "It's the same up north but in a nicer way; they still jeer and cheer but with a certain skip in their step!"

Recently signed to Edinburgh-based label SL Records, Decoration describe their music as being in the classic indie tradition, influenced by the likes of The Wedding Present, Pulp and The Smiths.

"Their songs reflect a certain time and place and that's something we've tried to do," explains Stuart. "It's also about thrashing about with guitars and not worrying about the professionalism too much. There's no place for a Liberace in this band!"

One of Decoration's favourite places and the title of one of their songs is 'Pavey Ark'. "It's a big hill in the Lake District. The song is a reflection of things we did as young lads. We used to make little dens and stay up there for a weekend."

Adds Stuart with a grin, "We've added a romantic twist though!"

Their debut single 'I tried it, I liked it, I loved it,' is out in April on SL Records, with the album 'Don't Disappoint me Now' to follow in June.

You can catch the band on tour in April:

21st - Newcastle, FMs
22nd - Lancaster, Feedback
25th - London, Water Rats
29th - Manchester, Cuba Café

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