DUDLEY based metallers Oxzide say they have been rocking Black Country venues hard after perfecting their line up in January.

Formed last year, Oxzide have supported a string of leading tribute artists while trying out a succession of drummers before settling with sticksman Rob Jarret.

Lead guitarist Stephen Stevo' Holdnall, from Pensnett, says their mix of original tunes and classic covers gives them a uniquely powerful rock sound.

Former Kingswinford schoolboy Stevo said: "We have been hitting venues like a sledgehammer, the band itself has a sound that is a derivative of various influences ranging from Led Zeppelin and Guns n Roses all the way up to metal legends like Pantera and Zakk Wylde."

Stevo, who describes himself as a "guitar wielding psychopathic noise polluter", and Rob make up two fifths of the band along with bassist Dean Ellis, guitarist Hannah Fieldhouse and singer Beth Hemming.

The band are currently preparing to record an EP but in the meantime are heading to The Rock Cafe 2000, Stourbridge for a gig supporting U2 4U.

Catch Oxzide at the Mill Race Lane venue on Saturday March 17.