Chichester-born Hope Of The States are road-testing new material with a series of low-key, intimate gigs.

As well as having to cope with the death of founder member and guitarist James Lawrence in 2004, the band have faced tour disruptions, arguments and equipment failures.

However, the six-piece anthemic rock outfit are now rested, refreshed and ready for the release of EP Blood Meridian on April 3. Second album Left is out later in the spring.

According to singer Sam Herlihy their new material takes a different direction: "I think it sounds pretty different - a lot more up. We're spending more time experimenting with sounds.

It's about getting really strong songs to start off with as opposed to covering stuff up with that apocalyptic sound we did on the first record."

It has been described as a "blitzkrieg anthemic crescendo" and could bring them the full recognition they deserve.

Audio: Starts 7pm, tickets £10 and £12, call 01273 606906
Liquid Lounge, Chatsworth Road, Worthing, on Wednesday: Starts 7.30pm, tickets £10, call 01903 203489 (over 16s show).