THE supremely talented Furness-based rock outfit Atlas play gigs in Bolton on January 29, Manchester on February 19, Lancaster on February 24, Barrow on March 10, Walney on March 18 and Kendal on March 25.

The five-piece are stamping their name all over the musical map of the North West with their virtuosity, heartfelt lyrics and tunes you’ll find yourself humming for days on end.

As with so many successful rock bands over the past few years - Jet, Oasis and Kings of Leon to name but a few - family is at the heart of Atlas.

Lead singer Paul Coulton works in perfect symbiosis with brother Kris on guitar and backing vocals, alongside the breathtaking ability of drummer James Davey.

Recently-recruited members James Chesters and Mark McClinchey provide bouncing basslines and atmospheric keyboards respectively.

Taking in influences such as R.E.M., U2, Modest Mouse and Yes!, Atlas are already veterans of the region’s gig circuit, having twice played Kendal Calling and also entertaining at Cockermouth Rock Festival.

Paul said: “We are still a young band really. Since James and Mark came on board we have a different sound to our songs and we are really happy with it.

"They allow Chris’s guitar playing to breathe a bit more and it’s going really well.”

Kris added: “We have our influences but rather than trying to replicate those sounds in our music, we want to be creative and develop our own style.”

From their base in Barrow and Dalton, Atlas have built up a solid fanbase but are keen to spread the word through gigging around the country.

“We just want to get more people to listen to us,” added Paul.

“We have a new website on its way and are keen to tour with other bands and play gigs as much as possible.”

* Atlas play Bolton Soundhouse on January 29, Manchester Night & Day on February 19, Lancaster Yorkshire House on February 24, Barrow The Nines on March 10, Walney The George on March 18 and Kendal Fleece Inn on March 25.