BABYSHAMBLES bassist Drew McConnell may be used to festivals and crowds of thousands, but this weekend he is swapping his band’s A-List antics for a more relaxed affair at the Blind Tiger.

Fans of the band, fronted by hellraiser Pete Doherty, can look forward to hearing their hits at the Nelson Square venue, such as Delivery and Albion — with a twist.

What’s more, the Dublin-born musician says he cannot wait to check out what Bolton has to offer.

He said: "Bolton and Manchester are very exciting for new music right now. I can't wait to pop in to the Blind Tiger and soak up the vibes."

The event is the first from Bury-based events promoters Rebel Grooves, which is made up of husband and wife duo Danny and Beth Solazzo.

The pair’s love of live music is translated through their ability to book top names that would normally be playing to 1,000-strong crowds for intimate, local venues across Greater Manchester and Lancashire — in their words, “bring inner city vibes to your local.”

For this Saturday’s gig, which also features two Westhoughton-based acts, indie-rock four piece Our Fold and singer-songwriter Jordan Allen, the couple have managed to do just that.

Danny said: “Despite the chaotic reputation that Babyshambles have thanks to Pete Doherty, Drew is actually a multi-talented instrumentalist. He is first and foremost a bassist in the band, but he is a classically trained musician.

“He’s been involved with a number of creative projects, such as Helsinki, where he performs solo material as well as versions of songs by Babyshambles, so I am really pleased that he has agreed to headline Rebel Grooves’ first Bolton gig.

“There is a thriving music scene in Bolton and we have tried to pick interesting people that you would not expect to see in such an intimate venue.

“With Drew, it’s going to be really exciting for me personally to see him on a small stage just feet away after seeing Babyshambles at places like the Ritz in Manchester and at festivals.

“As well as Drew on the bill is two up and coming local acts to Bolton, Our Fold and Jordan Allen, so it will be great night of music.

“I’m no stranger to Bolton. I used to work for an arts-based community project called Embrace Art and Drama, and loved working in the town, but unfortunately that folded a few years ago.

“Hopefully if this event proves a success then we can search out some more big names for the town in the future.”

Drew McConnell, Our Folds and Jordan Allen play the Blind Tiger, in Nelson Square, Bolton, on Saturday, June 28, from 8pm.

Tickets for the gig can be bought for £8 (plus booking fee) by calling Danny on 07434 047509, or alternatively visit wegottickets.com/rebelgrooves.