ACOUSTIC duo Groucutt and Haynes started their collaboration after becoming established as performers in their own right.

Singer/songwriter Dan Haynes made his name as a solo acoustic artist while Robin Groucutt was busy with the ambient sound of Corda.

The pair found they were often on the same bill at venues around the region and after Robin, son of the late ELO bass player Kelly Groucutt, began backing Dan on stage songs flowed freely.

The introduction of former Corda member Saffron Box on bass, drummer Steve Groucutt and more recently vocalist and saxophonist Carrie Pickering, made it possible for Groucutt and Haynes to perform both as a duo or full band.

They describe their sound as an upbeat acoustic funk vibe with meaningful lyrics and harmonies using a range of instruments to compliment guitars, including saxophone, flute, keyboard and African drums.

After support slots with big names including Midge Ure, Richie Havens, Elkie Brooks and Ian Parker the band have been in the studio this year recording their debut album - Another Good Reason.

The album features singles Stung and the currently available You Come Alive plus live favourites like as Rain and High on The Time.

Another Good Reason is set for its launch at The Robin 2, Bilston, on Wednesday September 30.

Meanwhile Base Studios, on Rufford Road, is getting set to play host to more established and unsigned acts including Weak 13 (Saturday September 12) and Rebel City Radio plus Nomad 67 (Saturday September 19).