ONE of the most influential figures in the British music scene over the last 25 years has made a Blackburn band one of the first signings to his new record label.

Alan McGee, the man behind the likes of Oasis and Primal Scream, this week added The Illicits to the roster of artists on his Creation 23 label.

The four members of The Illicits - George Richards on vocals and rhythm guitar, guitarist Brad Hayes, Joe Mitchell on bass and drummer Matt Cottam - officially put pen to paper in London and their single In What World is scheduled for release in mid April. Before then, music fans will get the chance to see the band live when they play the Electric Church in their home town next Saturday.

After being given a demo of the band who have been together for around two years, Alan McGee was so impressed he came up to see them play at the Electric Church in Blackburn.

“The whole thing has been pretty surreal,” said singer George. “It is just so massively exciting that someone like Alan believes in us and it’s so good to get his backing

“I think he liked our energy and our passion and we appreciate that this is only the start for us. You’ve got to really have that drive if you want to get on. We are confident that we are good enough and we’re over the moon that Alan has seen that in us too.”

Alan McGee said: “They are young, they mean it completely. They are focused and they have got good songs. The single is amazing. It’s the right package for me to put out on Creation23.

“Music is so middle class right now, there are so few of these working class kids breaking through. So if I’m doing anything I’m supporting those talented working class kids and giving them a chance.”

George said that The Illicits are heavily influenced by a lot of Nineties guitar bands - many of whom were on Alan’s original Creation label - plus current acts such as the Brian Jonestown Massacre.

“That’s the thing,” said Alan. “There is a whole generation out there who look back to the bands of my era. They haven’t got people of their own age singing songs that they like and want. That’s where The Illicits and bands like them come in.

“There’s a generation that doesn’t have their own bands and who like rock and roll. If I’m doing anything I’m curating and putting these bands out there.”

The Illicits initial deal is for one single but Alan hasn’t ruled out continuing his label’s involvement with the band.

In the meantime, the quartet are preparing for next Saturday’s gig in their home town which is a fundraiser for the charity Musicians Against Homelessness

“That’s going to be such a good gig,” said George, “none of us can wait. There are people out there who are quick to shout Blackburn down but we want to be that band from Blackburn which makes something happen.

“We’re looking to be gigging as much as possible and building up our local following. I’d just say to people who haven’t seen us, come along - you’ll enjoy it.”

The Illicits, Electric Church. Blackburn, Saturday, March 2. Tickets available in person from Hugo’s Mexican Bar and Eatery on Northgate or www.skiddle.com