LUKE Leighfield doesn't mince his words when it comes to describing the local music scene.

"There isn't one," he said.

"Pretty much every other gig in Worcester is awful.

"There are no young bands coming up and people in Worcester just don't come out to gigs.

"Whenever we go on tour, Worcester is the worst show."

Strong words from this 19-year-old singer who hails from Upton-upon-Severn.

Leighfield has been playing piano since the age of four. These days he spends his time driving up and down the country, gigging in London and even touring Scotland. He tackles music the DIY way, self-funding most of his releases.

His piano-driven alternative pop is in the Ben Folds Five mould, but described as having a definite British quality.

On Sunday, May 6, he'll be performing with Sam Isaac at Worcester's Marr's Bar. The pair, who are both signed to Sam (Get Cape.Wear Cape.Fly) Duckworth's label, Mannequin Republic, will be showcasing some of the tracks off their new split EP.

Currently on a gap-year from Southampton University, Leighfield appears to be disgruntled with the entire Midlands music scene ("Birmingham's no better") and is considering doing something about it.

"I might start something, maybe a monthly night at the Marr's Bar."

He talked about Lockjaw Records, the Worcester-based hardcore label, who up until a few years ago used to run weekly gig nights in the city.

"I'm not saying this in an arrogant way, but down in London we get 60/70 people at gigs. In Worcester we've get family and friends.

"We've advertised, put flyers up but people just don't come. I live in hope it'll change."

For more information or to listen to live tracks, visit the websites www.samisaac. co.uk and www.simplyluke leighfield.com.

Tickets to the Marr's Bar gig will be available on the door.