IT SEEMS every new band out of Manchester is now hailed 'the next big thing', but The Courteeners certainly did not disappoint.

The indie rock four-piece from Middleton have known each other since school, yet only formed as a band in 2006.

Their 2007 debut single Cavorting sold out immediately and shortly afterwards they were signed to label heavyweights Polydor Records.

The minute their frontman Liam Fray took to the stage, the thousand strong crowd came to life.

Opening track Aftershow set the standard as the band introduced new material from their yet to be named debut album, out in March. From the mellow Please Don't, Fray's personal favourite, to the instantly recognisable chords of anthem, Acrylic, the atmosphere was electric, a sure sign of the impact this band are having on what some might claim to be an uninspiring indie rock scene.

And what better way to finish the set than with the amazing new single What Took You So Long?, in which the band paid tribute to one of their many influences, James.

I left the Parr Hall in no doubt that the level of hype that surrounds The Courteeners is fully justified, and I can't wait to hear their album in full.

For those unfortunate enough to miss their performance, the band are playing the Manchester Apollo on February 10 as part of the Shockwaves NME Awards Show, with Babyshambles.