THIS gig very nearly did not happen.

After working up a sweat on their third album and a set of three EPs, Geordie band Little Comets cancelled four shows at the start of the UK tour due to singer Rob Coles losing his voice.

Perhaps getting the show back on the road at Preston's superb 53 Degrees venue was just the tonic, given their barnstorming show there in April 2013.

In fact, Coles said they chose to return because of the venue's distinctive sign at the entrance - weird but true.

And poignant too, given that this University of Central Lancashire gem is, sadly, due to stop putting on such gigs after Christmas.

This trio (joined by Manchester-based drummer Greenie) are somewhat of a paradox.

On one hand, they pull out perfect pop hits such as Dancing Song and Joanna and appeal to music fans who love nothing better than to jump about having fun.

But on the other hand, they are extremely deep, writing heartfelt odes to society's ills, pointing an accusing finger at everyone from Labour MP Alistair Darling to Tories in their Etonian Old Boys’ Club.

Strangely, the lyrics do not feel preachy mainly because the delivery is from three ordinary lads from the Tyne.

One song, Violence Out Tonight is about sexual violence against woman and includes the powerful line "...all this protracted by a state in which the poor conviction rate for rape can often leave a woman feeling more at blame than able."

It is rare to see so many young people at a gig these days – young men particularly – sing in unison about such an emotive, controversial and difficult subject.

This level of inspiration is what this band are capable of.

They whisked through riff-heavy tunes such as Jennifer, Bridge Burn and (appropriately) One Night in October and the crowd lapped it up.

If Coles’ vocals are not up to scratch, it certainly didn't show.

And with that, they were gone - onwards to Liverpool and umpteenth other tour dates, where fans are in for a real treat.

GIGS coming up at 53 Degrees include The Doors Alive, The Smiths Ltd, Magnum, The Inspiral Carpets, and more.

Visit 53degrees.net for details.