PULSE - music and more, with Simon Donohue

THE massive mill fire which shocked East Lancashire last weekend has left a band facing an uncertain future.

Blackburn group 1335 had stored thousands of pounds-worth of musical equipment in the building at Hoddlesden, near Darwen.

Nearly 100 firefighters from across the county attended the blaze at the four-storey Vale Rock Mill, which was converted into work premises for several firms.

Band member Mick Robinson said the group had been forced to put touring plans on hold due to a lack of equipment.

He added: "We have lost drums, amplifiers, speakers, monitors and microphones.

"Most of it wasn't insured." 1335 have been together for 18 months and have already played across Great Britain and parts of Europe.

"We cannot get gigs arranged without any equipment and this was unfortunately the time when things were starting to move for us."

Mick said the four-piece band were a guitar group with a hybrid rock sound who had won some "decent reviews" from their distinctive style.

"But we have not been put off," he added.

"We are thinking of the group like the Phoenix. We should soon be able to fly out of the ashes.

"Hopefully there are good things ahead for 1335."

1335 are currently looking for a replacement bass player to help them get back on the road.

Anyone who is interested can contact Mick on 01254 248831.

Folk landmark as studio launches label

SHAMROCK Studios at Balderstone has launched its own record label. Something Calling by Jon Brindley is the first album to be put out on the Shamrock Records label.

It's a bit of a change for boss Sham Heffernan, who was used to watching his clients walking out of the door with a tape. He said: "Now I will be involved in all aspects of releasing a CD."

Folk fan SUE FOSTER gave Something Calling a listen and writes: "This is the debut album from the Wigan-born singer/songwriter The mix of traditional, self-penned songs and almost traditional (Bob Dylan/Woody Guthrie) songs is just right, the backing excellent and strong enough for Brindley's distinctive voice.

This is an excellent album."

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