THE year started badly for roots rock trio Wille and the Bandits with the cancellation of a tour of the Alps.

Now things have picked up big time with several continental tours confirmed and a string of festival dates coming through.

"The addition of our new bass player Matt Brookes has really stepped things up a level," says Wille, "everyone knows that he is a phenomenal bassist, who plays stand up and six string electric bass, but he's also a great harmony vocalist, so as well as all that we now have three part harmonies going on."

Wille and co are working towards the release of their new album, due out in May, which showcases their increasingly eclectic sound that incorporates Latin, African, Indian and heavy rock as well as blues roots vibes.

Catch them for a rare show on home turf when they play Ride Marquee on Thursday next week.