WHEN Hereford's premier hard rock band returned to their home town to promote their new EP they raised the bar for all bands in the area.

Returning from a national tour to the low-key setting of the Horse and Groom must have been slightly unnerving for King Mantis, especially as they now shared the floor with their audience - to be judged at first hand.

The first two numbers, So Far Away and Unrighteous Path, didn't impress, lacking the sense of urgency needed to get the crowd going.

Fortunately things picked up with Air and from there they went from strength to strength.

The three songs from the new EP, Save Yourself, were all stand-out tracks along with the excellent Angel Passes Through, featuring a heartfelt solo effort from guitarist and lead vocalist Adie Miles, before bassist James Mason and drummer Lars Wickett kicked in for a thumping finish.

Door money from the night went to Support Local Music, a charity that helps young bands get started.

The immediate future for King Mantis involves finding a manager and selling copies of the new EP. Anyone interested in either should contact them through their website, www.kingmantis.co.uk.

Support at the Horse and Groom was ably provided by Hereford metal band God Damn, who suitably warmed up the crowd with their heavy sound, soaring guitars punctuated with harsh vocals and a tight rhythm section.

A good effort from the relatively new four piece but their six songs were enough, leaving the crowd ready for the main event.

Arun Marsh