DREAMS of rock stardom have led a five-piece band from Hanley Castle High School to record their first album.

Infamy began work on Friday at recording studios in the school and will record the rest at the Old Smithy Studios in Kemp-sey, under producer Muff Murfin.

The band will follow in the footsteps of artists including Edwin Starr, Judas Priest and Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant, who have also recorded at the studios.

The boys hope to send the finished product to big labels like Chry-salis, Island and EMI, in the hope of securing a record deal.

Infamy was formed two years ago and comprises singer and lyricist Harry Harris, rhythm guitarist Tom Franklin, drummer Rob Clarke, bassist Russ Staples and lead guitarist Paul Heath, all in Y12.

Described by music teacher Tim McVittie as 'a cross between Bon Jovi, Guns 'n' Roses and Oasis', the band perform their own material, influenced by Oasis, Lost Prophets and Ben Folds Five.

The album will feature 12 songs and will be released in January at a launch in Upton Memorial Hall.

Tom said their music was hard to pigeon-hole and covered a broad spectrum of styles, including reggae, ska and rock.

"If it sounds the same as anything else we don't go for it, because we like to be different," he said.

The band are most proud of a song called Vienna, which they would like to release as a single.

"Vienna's our big number," said Harry, "It's about a time in my life when I was a bit down. It came from someone saying that Vienna was the city of lost souls."

The band said they hoped the album would raise their profile and lead to a professional record contract.

Infamy is seeking a string quartet to perform with them.

Musicians need to be Grade Six standard, or higher and available for rehearsals, recording and live performances.

Anyone who can help should call 01684 310144.