THE debut album from Barrow band Resuscitate has been kept under wraps, but now the rock four-piece are ready for the big reveal.

It will be an eye-catching release for followers of the local scene, not least because they've impressed on their live outings over the past few years - but they've got a true master of his craft on board.

Of course, the release of a new record is all about the music, but those that get their hands on a copy will recognise the work of a certain Brian Cannon, known for creating the album cover for Oasis' debut album, Definitely Maybe.

"Brian is a friend of mine and I sent him a demo," says drummer Jevon Turner.

"He liked it and agreed to do the sleeve and promotional photographs. We decided to make the album for ourselves and for our own pleasure. As we were proud of it, we thought it deserved a good cover.

"To have Brian on board is a real privilege considering he has done some of the most iconic work ever. For a little Barrow band, it is quite the honour to have a world-class sleeve designer do our work."

Resuscitate started out three years ago, with founding vocalist and guitarist Darryl Waite and bassist Ste Culley originally joined by fellow Furness musicians John Rennie and Aaron Turner - Jevon's brother.

Due to family and work commitments, Jevon stepped in, as did guitarist Steve Harrison, and the four of them have been plugging away for a couple of years now.

A previous EP spawned a debut single and a video, Winston, before they headed into Trevor Hird's Abbots Vale Studio in Barrow last year to work on the self-titled full-length.

Darryl says: "It started as a six-track demo, which grew into a 14-track album.

"We're overjoyed with the result and we've had amazing feedback after hearing our tracks on BBC introducing and Cando FM.

"The album has been kept under wraps, although some tracks have been included in our live set, for which we’ve also received great feedback."


Resuscitate (photo by Brian Cannon)

Jevon continues: "What started out as quite a punky sound soon developed, and in the 14 songs there is a huge variation in style, from indie and alternative, heavy rock to slow and melodic. There are fleets of reggae, funk and soul spattered across the record. It features electric and acoustic harmonious clout.

"The influences range from The Smiths to the Chili Peppers and all of this can be heard within our music.

"This has not been a conscious thing and imitation is not what we do. We are not trying to fit in with anything - we just follow our noses."

The plan from here on out is to establish themselves among the familiar names on the local circuit, stepping up their live schedule to include the bigger festivals in the area.

The album - due out imminently - should help Resuscitate open a few doors, especially with the backing of one of British music's most respected artists.

And then it'll be on to record number two, as this promising band quickly picks up momentum.


Resuscitate (photo by Brian Cannon)

Jevon says: "We hope people will go to the effort of buying and downloading the album in support of us.

"I think people will be surprised by the quality of the songwriting, which Darryl brings to us and we knock them into shape.

"It is our hope that when the album is ready in physical form that as many Barrovians as possible get to own it.

"We have been playing in bands together for years and it would be nice to be recognised enough to secure some quality gigs at good venues."

Resuscitate's self-titled album will be available at the end of May, on sale at gigs and shops such as R&T Music, in Dalkeith Street, and Fat Bob's in Barrow Market. It will also be available to stream and purchase via the major digital retailers.

The next live outing for the band is this Sunday, supporting Mad4It at the Newton Arms, in Dalton. Doors open at 7pm, and tickets can be booked by phoning 01229 242104.