THEY are undoubtedly Bolton’s best Mexican band.
And next month, Pancho Ballard and the Banditos will be entertaining their hometown with an appearance at the Octagon theatre, as part of the new series of Cityscape Presents events.
“I’m quite excited really — it feels like one of those venues where you always hope you’ll play,” says Pancho, aka Bolton lad Darren Riley. “It’s like ticking somewhere off a list.”
The band haven’t appeared in Bolton since playing the annual Dog and Partridge Dogstock, back in May. They will be showcasing tracks from their new concept EP, which is the soundtrack to an imaginary film.
“It’s very new, so we might be flying by the seat of our pants,” says Darren. “There’s no plot to this film, but each song sounds like it might have a plot. It’s pretty dark in places. There’s lots of murders on there.”
The band’s on stage sombreros and facial hair may suggest a novelty act, but don’t be fooled — they boast some serious musical and songwriting talent.
“Every six months or so Dick [Perkins, trombone], says, ‘Do you think it’s time to drop the sombreros?’,” says Darren, “but I just can’t do it."
• Pancho Ballard and the Banditos play the Octagon, Howell Croft South, Bolton, on October 11. Tickets cost £5. For more information, visit octagonbolton.co.uk.
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