AS Hidden Trail Records prepare to release their compilation of new city music Hidden Brighton #2 next month to raise cash for The Clock Tower Sanctuary, some of the featured artists speak to The Guide.

This week Kate Gerrard, aka The Delta Bell, introduces herself.

“I'm from Norwich originally, but I've lived in Brighton for about ten years. I started writing songs when I was a teenager, and haven't really stopped since then. I record under the name The Delta Bell, and live we're a five-piece band.

“I'm a big fan of old school country and Americana. Artists like Townes Van Zandt, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Skeeter Davis, Creedence Clearwater Revival. I'm also a huge fan of 1960s girl groups like the Ronettes, The Shangri-Las and the Shirelles, and singers like Lesley Gore.

“I knew of Clock Tower Sanctuary through friends who have worked there so I was aware of the great work they do. For the Hidden Brighton compilation I chose a song called Strings from my forthcoming album, Bow Out Of The Fading Light – it's one of the most stripped back and one of my favourites. Hopefully other people will like it and it will help raise some cash for a really vital organisation!

“My debut album is coming out on Monday, July 27 on At The Helm and Ginsoaked Records. It's been a long time in the making so I'm excited about finally releasing it into the world. As a precursor to the album we're releasing a digital single, Carry Us Home, on Monday, June 29. After the release of the album I'm going back to the studio with the band to record some of the new songs we've been playing live. I'm itching to do some new stuff, so watch this space.”

Hidden Brighton #2 is released on Friday, June 12, with an album launch at the Latest Music Bar, in Manchester Street, Brighton, that night from 7.30pm. Tickets for the show, which features sets by Becky Becky, Curxes and Black Rooster Black Shag, cost £7/£8. Call 01273 687171.

Find out more: www.thedeltabell.com www.youtube.com/thedeltabell/videos www.facebook.com/thedeltabell www.twitter.com/thedeltabell