A SUPERGROUP of world-famous rhythm and blues stars look set to make next month's 10th Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival in Colne the best yet.

Lebanese-born guitarist Otis Grand's slow-burning blues numbers will be backed by an exclusive collaboration rightly dubbed Allstars - including guitarist Steve Cropper, Roscoe Gordon, Jimmy "T99" Nelson, Sugar Ray Norcia, Peewee Ellis and Joe Houston.

The Otis Grand Allstars are set to headline the International Stage on the final day of the event, which takes place throughout the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Last year Otis' soaring guitar performance was counterbalanced by horns and keyboards which made 60s instrumentals like Boogaloo Fuzzball sound new and refreshing.

Another star set to make a successful return is Sista Monica, who took last year's event by the scruff of the neck with her feisty, charismatic style and awesome vocal range.

Kicking things off on the International Stage will be British blues "boy wonder" Aynsley Lister, whose blistering guitar style looks set to make him a star of the future.

Other acts on the International Stage include high-octane rock and rollers Blazin' Row, Walter Trout and Bobby Rush.

Highlights on other stages include Hendrix aficionados The Hamsters, rockers Slack Alice and big band King Pleasure And The Biscuit Boys.

There are dozens more acts plus a whole host of fringe events throughout the town. Keep reading Pulse for more details.

For a free festival brochure, call Pendle Leisure Services box office on 01282 661234.

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