New Norfolk teen band hoping for big things

Ozzy Osbourne, Jimmy Page and Mick Jagger all started their rock careers as teenagers.

Now a band of Norfolk youngsters are hoping to follow in their footsteps.

This month Left For Dead will step on stage at the Ocean Room in Gorleston for their first gig - just three months after forming.

The group of 14-year-olds is made up of guitarist Caleb Norris, drummer Taylor Maryan, singer Sam Whymark, rhythm guitarist Jacob Rayner, bass player Will Smith and Arthur Jarvis on keyboards.

On April 16, the six-piece will appear as support for Steely Dan tribute act, Steemy Dan, performing five covers during a 20-minute slot.

Broadland High student Caleb said, although the group came together just a couple of months ago, there was no sign of nerves for the upcoming gig.

He said: 'We have only just got the line-up sorted, but we are feeling good about it. We're all looking forward to it and have been practicing hard.'

Taylor, who began drum lessons with his dad Jim just a year and a half ago, said Left for Dead was keen to play metal but was sticking with classic rock at the moment.

He added: 'We've also started writing our own songs. We've got drum and guitar sorted for about four songs, but no lyrics yet.'

The teenagers were offered the gig after friends of Taylor's dad saw them rehearsing.

Mr Maryan, who lives in Sutton, near Stalham, and has spent much of his life in various bands, said: 'It's taken off quicker than I expected, even I'm trying to slow it down.

'They're just so good. I'm hoping when they do this gig there will be others there who see them and think 'I would like to use these boys'. My musician friends have seen them and they think they're phenomenal.'