Neon Sky,a Hillingdon-based alternative rock act with a party-hard attitude, hope to reach the same heady heights of their hero, Kurt Cobain, the late lead singer of Nirvana. SIBA MATTI spoke to drummer Luke Eustace to find out more

IN HOT pursuit of fame and fortune in that fickle state that is the music industry, is four-piece alternative rock group, Neon Sky, poised to emerge as the borough's next big talent.

The band was formed by lead vocalist and guitarist Alex Tarrent, who, at the tender age of 13, was inspired to pick up the guitar after seeing '90s grunge act Nirvana on television. He started writing songs soon after that and, being part of a musical family, he had good foundations on which to build his talent.

Six years later, Alex, now 19 and studying at Uxbridge College, decided to form Neon Sky, enlisting the help of lead guitarist Gareth Murray, 19, a student at Brunel University, barman Dan Murray, 19, on bass guitar and Luke Eustace, head of sales for an office company and also 19, on drums.

"Our influences are incredibly varied," explains Luke. "As a song writer, Alex is inspired by Elliott Smith,

Black Francis and The Beatles, but we all like Queens of the Stone Age, Motorhead and, of course, Nirvana.

"Dan really likes Iron Maiden, while I am heavily influenced by my love of rock music and the likes of Travis Barker, the drummer from Blink 182, as well as Steve Smith and The Rev.

"Our sound is very energetic, a cross between pop-punk and rock, with many songs that could potentially become anthems. We all work together and everyone makes a contribution towards making our sound unique."

Neon Sky are currently writing new material after releasing an EP, Sticks and Stones, in September, which sold 200 copies, despite the fact the group is unsigned.

They have also played a series of shows in the past few months, including regular appearances at the Crown and Treaty in Uxbridge, and at Trinity in Harrow, well-known for being a springboard for musical acts such as Kate Nash.

One of the highlights of the band's career so far was a gig at The Flag in Watford, alongside Mind Food, Flat Face and 13 Riots, in November.

Luke says of the experience: "One of my favourite things to do is play live shows and make sure the crowd is having as much fun as I am, and that's exactly what happened at The Flag - we had such an amazing night. We also managed to sell quite a few demos, so we have gained a small but important following, and would love to go back.

"Ultimately, we would love to build up a big enough following to play venues like Brixton Academy, Koko and the Barfly - every gig counts."

Neon Sky are playing at Fountains Mill in Uxbridge on Friday, and at The Dry Bar in Barbican next Thursday, December 18.

The band's motto is 'Keep an eye on the sky', and with their varied, dynamic, punchy vocals and passion for music, they are sure to be making a big impact in the not too distant future. 

* Find out more by visiting www.neon-sky.co.uk or www.myspace.com/theneonsky .