THE biggest-selling new band of 2011 hit Southampton for a sell-out gig at the Guildhall.

Their punchy, fast-paced tunes may be reminiscent of the Ramones but The Vaccines have created a style all their own.

A really enthusiastic crowd sang along and jumped about with the sheer joy of listening to hit after hit from the band’s critically acclaimed debut album, What Did You Expect From the Vaccines?

For lead singer Justin Young and drummer Pete Robertson, it was a chance to play in their home town once again – and Justin even joined the crowd in singing When the Saints Go Marching In as they returned to the stage for their encore.

Hits such as Wreckin’ Bar (RA RA RA), Wetsuit and Post Break Up Sex were well received, and even new material gained an enthusiastic response from the crowd.

On this evidence 2012 looks set to be an even bigger year for The Vaccines.