Seventies sound: Tim Howar (centre) and co

WHO ARE THEY?

A hard-rocking London quintet who look to the early Seventies  -  and the shaggyhaired raunch of The Faces and The Rolling Stones  -  for songwriting inspiration.

WHY THE FUSS?

Van Tramp's upbeat, soul-tinged guitar pop is winning admirers on the live circuit. The group also have some interesting connections: Canadian-born singer Tim Howar is married to actress Ruthie Henshall (the couple have two children), while the video for forthcoming single Something was made in New York by Robin Bextor, Sophie Ellis Bextor's dad. It even features a brief cameo from Ruthie.

WHAT'S THE STORY?

Like Patrick Fugit's character in the Cameron Crowe film Almost Famous, the charismatic Howar developed his fondness for British music after inheriting his older sister's record collection in Canada. The group got together after he moved from Toronto to London and met guitarist and songwriter Patrick Mascall.

AND THEN?

With Howar dividing his time between music and theatrical roles  -  he starred alongside Henshall in the West End production of Peggy Sue Got Married  -  the band recruited bassist Mike Potter, drummer Guy Snellar and keyboardist Andy Tinning to cut their debut album. Out next month on independent label Tunepony, the self-titled affair is a bluesy blend of good-time rock anthems such as The Garden and ballads such as Just Listen and the mandolin-driven single, Something.

WHERE CAN I HEAR MORE?

Something is out on June 30, while another track, Hope & Pray, has been picked by Sony Ericsson to advertise a new music download service. The band is playing two open-air concerts this month with the Sugababes, at Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, on June 21 and Lincoln Castle on June 29. For tickets, visit midsummermagic.co.uk