A MANCHESTER psych/pop band are set to play a gig in Northwich, after making their debut at the South by Southwest Festival in the USA.

Heavy Salad, fresh from working with legendary producer Stephen Street (The Smiths/Blur) on their new album, the trio will head to The Salty Dog on Thursday, March 24.

Formed in 2018, Heavy Salad comprise a core trio of Lee Mann (live bassist with The Moonlandingz), Rob Glennie and Allan Hutchison. 

Bonding over a joint interest in psychedelic horror films, with Panos Cosmatos’ cult classic ‘Mandy’ being a particular favourite, the three loved the idea of being in a band like a psychedelic cult. Enlisting Ally McBoo, Esther Maylor, Lucy Hope AKA The Priestesses and Oscar Remers along the way, the gang released their debut album ‘Cult Casual’ in 2020. 

Drawing comparisons to The Flaming Lips, to The Beatles, to Super Furry Animals, the record aptly proved to be a cult-hit with fans and are preparing new music for 2022, with the release of new single 'Psilocyberman' on February 11.

Lee from the band explains what the song is all about and takes time out to discuss working with a producer like Stephen Street.

"It’s the tale of an everyday cyborg who is awakened from his electronic trance using the magical powers of psylocibin (aka “magic mushrooms”)," he said

"He is aware.

"He feels the rhythms of the universe reverberate inside his mind.

"Working with Stephen Street was a dream come true for Heavy Salad, he instantly recognised the band’s knack for a killer hook and a guitar player who does things differently. 

"Having worked with some of the most distinctive guitarists in British rock, Stephen can now add Rob Glennie to his illustrious list of collaborators. 

"Stephen is well known for delivering experimental guitar pop and “Psilocyberman” is no exception."

The Blur connection doesn't end there, with new album 'Long Wave' being recorded at Damon Albarn's Studio 13 in West London as well as at their current base in Manchester.

You can catch the band at The Salty Dog on Thursday, March 24 where they will be supported by Silent K.

Tickets will be available from salty-dog.co.uk/the-salty-dog