Who? Based in Leeds, apart from Paul (drums/percussion, who lives in Sheffield), Penny Broadhurst & The Maffickers are Penny (vocals/songwriting), Emil (keyboards/brass), Jonny (lead guitar), Owen (acoustic/electric guitars) and Jon (bass).

Why? With a track on the upcoming Fear Of A Wack Planet compilation and a new EP later in the year, they're all about soulful, melancholic pop with a certain wit and sparkle.

When? A free headline gig at the Power's, No Fiction Night, in Kilburn on 11 September.

Where? MySpace & on the band's official site.

Intelligent, literate, and dedicated to melodic music, Penny Broadhurst & The Maffickers are passionate and big MySpace champions. Penny bats the questions on behalf of the band.

How did the band meet?

I was making music with friends and putting out demos on my own, then started gigging with backing tracks on my laptop, with my husband Emil on brass and glockenspiel. Jon offered to play bass, Emil took up keyboards and Paul found me on MySpace. Jonny then saw an advert asking for a lead guitarist and came along for the ride. Owen was persuaded to join on electric and acoustic guitars before our first gig was in October 2008.

Who has the last say within the band, creative or otherwise?

Me, because I write the songs and somebody needs to be in charge, but I can be persuaded otherwise (usually by Jon, the grown-up in the outfit).

What has been your musical highlight so far?

The first time we properly rehearsed Your Bones, which had been quite small and cold in bedroom demo form, but in the end it opened up and became epic and thrilling.

Which musician(s) would you most like to work with?

Kate Bush, for she is a deity, of some sort.

Internet or mobile?

Internet - I can live without a mobile, and Jon does, while Emil only has his for emergencies. The internet is how we communicate, how we promote ourselves, and how we further our knowledge.

What’s the state of the nation right now?

Gripped by an uneasy marriage of apathy and hysteria.

What is your routine before a live gig?

For me, lip balm, a pint of water, loo and wibble; for Jon, Jonny

and Paul, it’s a pint of beer; and for Owen and Emil a form of

quiet panic.

Who is the best dancer in the band?

Emil - he's the most enthusiastic, anyway, though Owen and Jonny have better fringes for swishing.

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