TWO TIMERS stars Sarah James and Gordon Russell often don't know what they're going to play right up to the start of a gig.

But you can be sure of a percussion collection almost as fascinating as the songs themselves.

Tapping away on a suitcase converted into a drum, a set of spoons and making "other unorthodox noises, you might be forgiven for thinking the pair had brought the kitchen sink with them to gigs.

But as Sarah explains, driving down the M6 before their gig in Worcester tomorrow night, it's a case of needs must becoming an integral part of their set.

"We bought an old leather suitcase for $10 in New Zealand, put a bass drum pedal and amplifier inside it and started using it.

It sounds pretty frantic and we liked the look of it. Other musicians say it's better than a real bass drum!"

Sarah and Gordon former Dr Feelgood guitarist met while both were living in France in the early 1990s and by 1993 had formed their musical partnership.

The accumulation of spoons and suitcase, alongside violin, harmonica and a selection of guitars and mandolin, was more by accident than design.

Starting out as a four-piece, both Sarah and Gordon realised they need percussion when they slimmed the band down to its present format following 1995's eponymous debut.

"We were a bit disjointed because of the fact that we didn't have a rhythm section, so we started to make as much noise as possible.

Since their formation, they have made two albums, with a third earmarked for release later this year.

There's a strong affinity with women taking revenge on two-timing men, but one of Sarah's more personal songs is her tribute to Aubrey Rex - a relative who was killed aged just 19 when his bomber was shot down over Germany in 1942.

He was a bit of an enigma, explained Sarah. Not very much was known about him. He was a tail gunner, which was one of the most vulnerable parts of the plane.

My grandmother just received a telegram saying he had been killed in action. I thought it would be a good idea for a song.

Two Timers play the Marr's Bar tomorrow night. Call the venue on 01905 613336 for details.