CREWE'S SUMO KINGS TO PLAY LAST EVER GIG

ONE of South Cheshire’s most recognisable bands is calling it a day – but fans will have one last chance to catch them live on Saturday, July 23.

Indie outfit Sumo Kings were at the forefront of the area’s music scene in 2008 and 2009 but, after a relatively quiet 18 months, the trio have decided to bow out.

Chris Farrington (bass guitar/vocals), Steve Foster (guitar/laptop) and Jamie Oliver (drums) will make their final appearance at the trendy Square One bar in Mill Street, Crewe.

Lending a hand on the Sumos’ final outing are pals Inuendo, Blunderbuss Benefit and former manager Richard Barclay, who will DJ under his Rodeo Terrorists guise.

Farrington, 28, said: “We wanted all the people who helped us out over the years to be involved in this.

“We used to rehearse in Inuendo’s practice room and even held a secret gig there, so it holds some good memories for us. And we wanted to involve Inuendo to thank them for their patience with us because we could be a bit of a handful!

“Blunderbuss Benefit have been good friends with us for years and we thought it’d be fitting for them to support as well. And Richard was always a good source of advice and help so we wanted him to be there.”

The Sumos had originally hoped to have former bassist Adam Davies back for the farewell but Blunderbuss’ Sam Boulton will fill on bass duties on some of the older tunes.

Farrington added: “It’s a shame Ad couldn’t join us but we will still be playing most of our back catalogue, with old songs in their original format and some revamped. We’re all looking forward to the night and hope we can bow out in style.”

In their pomp, Sumo Kings shared a stage with some big acts like Feeder, The Twang and The Bluetones and held their own club night, Club Sumo, at Square One.

Drummer Oliver, 28, said: “In many ways it’s a real shame but sometimes you know when things have to come to an end. We’ve enjoyed some great times and there’s been some really exciting nights, the sort of thing that comes with being in a band.

“And to say we have played main support to bands like Feeder is something not a lot of people can say and be proud of.”

Entry is free of charge and doors will open at approximately 7pm.