THERE'S a rare chance to see The Muffin Men, acclaimed as the greatest ever tribute to Frank Zappa, in the intimate setting of the Zoo Caf Bar on Thursday 3 March.

The gig will be a warm-up for the band's forthcoming European tour and the line-up will feature Jimmy Carl Black, one of the founder members of Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention.

Formed in Liverpool by bassist and vocalist Roddie Gilliard, The Muffin Men are a highly talented and experienced outfit. Carl Bowry (lead guitar), Andy Friz (flute, saxes and vocal) and Martin Smith (trumpet and horn) were members of the Wizards of Twiddly.

Friz has also played with the late Viv Stanshall (Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band) and with Super Furry Animals and Gorkys Zygotic Mynci.

The Zoo Bar show promises to be an excursion through the many facets of Frank Zappa's considerable body of work.

Paul Griffiths, Manager/Owner of the Zoo Bar, said, "The demand for tickets for this event has been very high, due to the quality of these musicians and that it has been four years since The Muffin Men last played St Helens.

"We are hoping to give the band a great send off before their tour starts- this has all the ingredients of a great night and will definitely be one to remember."

Tickets for the event cost £6 and after the show Zoo Bar DJs will play an indie/alternative mix until 2am.

This Monday 28 February there's a treat in store for Rory Gallagher fans, as tribute band 'Sinner Boy' return to the Zoo Bar by popular demand.

There will be some Rory Gallagher memorabilia on display and live footage will be played before the gig starts at 9.30pm. Admission to this event is free.

For more information please telephone the Zoo Bar on 01744 733399.