Act name: Mike Rob

When and where did you form?
After the split of my past band STB, I wanted to keep busy with music. Going for the acoustic path seemed the natural way to go, I sort of fell into it by accident if anything. Just by playing the odd open mic night here and there led me to actually running my own night at White Tiger in Horwich every Wednesday. It starts at 7pm… wink, wink. Then getting offers from promoters to play with some pretty awesome bands, such as Our Fold and Arcane Bronze.

What is your sound and who are your influences?
I’ve been compared to Frank Turner before now, not sure how accurate that is though. I love good song-writing and a bit of social commentary doesn’t hurt. My favourite band is Cage the Elephant, Matt Shultz is a bit of genius. On a more personal note I’d say the biggest influence on my music is my dad — he’s taught me everything I know from how to play my first chord to how to structure and write songs. It’s safe to say without that influence I wouldn’t be into music at all, who knows what would have happened.

What is the biggest gig you have played to date?
I’m just getting started with this acoustic stuff, I’ve played around pubs and a few clubs. The best gig I’ve played was with the ex-band, back when the Soundhouse was around and active there was something about that place. The warehouse vibe put something in the air; maybe Dutch courage helped that though. Or at Manchester Academy a few years back, playing at such an established venue where I’ve seen some of my favourite bands was a great experience.

If you are not already, is it your ambition to become professional?
Of course it’s an ambition, but there’s no rush. I love playing music and would never want to fall out with it for money.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Selling out Wembley… bit ambitious? A personal goal is to record an album, I spend so much time writing songs that it would be brilliant just to have them on CD. Possibly even sell a few copies, that would be nice. I’ve actually recently recorded a demo EP with four songs on which you all should be able to download in a couple of months.

Is there anything unusual or interesting about the band?
Erm, I work at a local project called Rock it! It’s a weekly workshop ran for young people to get them into music by leading them and guiding their skills so they can play in bands. It’s a really cool project. Rock It has a yearly festival at Queen’s Park with loads of young and established bands. It’s something which I started as a participant myself in and now I’ve climbed up the ladder and got myself a music leader position.

Upcoming gigs?
I’m currently organising my own festival, named Tiger Fest. It’ll be taking place at White Tiger in Horwich on May 4. Get on the website for more updates, Tigerfesthorwich.co.u k .