IN a curious week that saw a tongue in cheek 'feud' erupt on a Liverpool based Internet music forum, two bands proved that St Helens is shining with talent.

Supporting Norwegian singer Sondre Lerche at The Barfly in Liverpool, Hundred Story High and The Loungs oozed with confidence throughout their sets. While support slots can sometimes prove a tricky feat, both bands managed to win the audience over in style.

With six members The Loungs did gain a distinct advantage in the number of family/friends/stalkers in the house and effortlessly belted out a string of boot-stompers, each one apparently 'about love', to a rapturous response from the crowd.

Wearing what are best described as 'eclectic' outfits, a visual mish-mash of members fused into a blistering audio treat of harmonies and skiffle beats, to produce a unique sound that the world simply must hear more of.

Following The Loungs was never going to be easy, but Hundred Story High accepted the challenge ahead of them with dignity...apart from a bit of swearing.

Slowing down the pace, the four-piece glowed with confidence as they captured the audience with a range of rock/folk tracks led by Emma's intense, sweeping vocals.

Having heard great things about both Hundred Story High and The Loungs, I was pleasantly surprised with what were two very different, but equally special performances, from just two of St Helens brightest stars.