Manchester has always had a thriving music scene. Madchester was the climax of the eighties and Oasis naturally brought the house down during Britpop's heyday. But it's high time a new act emerged from the mean streets of Manchester and independent label Akoustik Anarchy are hoping to do it with guitar band Loose Canon

Altercation begins with some mellow guitars, breaks out into a rip-roaring riff and calms down once more to make way for the archetypal growly indie rock vocals. The guitars, in particular, are reminiscent of a pre-Urban Hymns Verve, while later in the song shades of early New Order can be detected, keeping that Manchester vibe alive.

Loose Canon show promise but have some way to go before they rise above the standard on display by hundreds of similar bands trying to make it across Britain. The second track on their single, however - This Empire We've Created - demonstrates some variety. It's edgier than the first track and at just over two minutes, a lot punchier. So despite having some way to go, Loose Canon serve as a reminder that Manchester is still one of the best cities in Britain for unearthing exciting new talent.