SOUTHAMPTON singer Neil Simpson has finally put together his dream band.

They're called 21st Century Beatnik, and after a few low-key gigs Neil is ready to unleash them as the headline band in a three-band session at The Joiners, Southampton next Thursday.

"We are all experienced musicians in our 20s," says Neil, who describes the band's style as 'heavy soul'.

"All the guys have made their mark in other bands. I chose the name 21st Beatnik because I admire the writing of William Burroughs, Jack Kerouac and Charles Bukowski. We've got Jim Rogers on drums, Chris Hann on keyboards, Andy Early on guitar and Dylan Clarke on bass.

"I also play guitar and handle the vocals. We all have the same approach to music - to play with power and passion, with a working class ethic to work hard to get it right. It's music from the soul, and whatever it takes we're going to make it professionally."

The band started rehearsals in June, working on songs that Neil had already written.

"We've already completed a demo album which is the basis for our stage act, and I've already got another ten songs ready to record," he explains.

"The next step is to go for a proper record deal and get the songs published. The real ambition is to go full-time professional with the band. Over the next year, I will probably continue to do solo and duo gigs over the country to get myself better known."

For more details about The Joiners gig call 023 8022 9319.