Stereophonics tribute band 'The Phonics' to play huge gig in St Helens

After comments were made that lead singer Darryl had a voice like Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones, a bunch of St Helens musicians decided to try their hand as a tribute band as they were already huge fans of the Welsh four-piece.

Starting off in pubs and clubs, the St Helens launched 'Phonics' have been on a huge journey over the past eight years as they have grown to become the leading Stereophonics tribute act.

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The Phonics have played to thousands of fans across the country (Image: The Phonics)

After growing their reputation among Stereophonics fans and the wider tribute scene, the Phonics picked up a new booking agency recently which has propelled them to play much bigger shows across the country.

With the local four-piece set to embark on a nationwide O2 Academy tour next year, they are first planning a huge homecoming gig at the Citadel on Friday, October 13, which is part of the theatre's vibrant new events schedule.

Lead singer Darryl on stage (Image: The Phonics)

Steve Ashcroft, from the band, said: "We've always been big fans of Stereophonics, and after deciding to give it a go as a tribute bands, we have gone from strength to strength.

"It has been a massive grind over the past eight years but to see people spending their hard-earned money to pay or travel to see us is amazing.

"We've played across the country now but we want to help put St Helens on the map again musically, and promote the Citadel and what we do well here."

The tribute band will play the Citadel on October 13 (Image: The Phonics)
Hoping for a sell out show next Friday, Steve said that the Phonics' gig will be a "showcase of St Helens" with local musicians Sapho and Stu Oggy set to support.

For more information about the Phonics Citadel gig, you can visit this link.