VEX RED have already established themselves at the forefront of emerging British rock/metal acts.

Formed two years ago in Aldershot, they were regulars on their local live circuit. But as funds ran thin and interest waned, they were on the verge of jacking it all in . . . until they spotted an ad in the music press.

Seeing an appeal from American producer Ross Robinson --who was looking for new British acts -- they joined the many other hopefuls and sent in their tapes.

Shining out from the mountain of CDs, their early demos caught his attention and the band were snapped up by his I Am label.

And after glowing reviews from their recent appearances on the NME Upstarts tour, lead singer Terry Abbott admits the buzz about the band is a bit overwhelming.

He said: " Everyone is being really nice to us at the moment. It's a bit freaky really."

As their post-grunge swirls and big guitars gather momentum, he also revealed that following this tour the lads would be heading over to the States before returning for the summer festivals.

Vex Red play at the Manchester University on Tuesday night.