WHEN indie band Willow take to the stage tomorrow, a home crowd will greet them. Singer Paul, 23, feels this will give them 'a real confidence boost' before going on to new territory on their imminent tour of Scotland and northern England.

A 400-capacity gig in Dublin later this year is also scheduled.

With the support of their large local fanbase sales of their debut EP After The Feeling are showing a steady increase. The Southampton show looks set to follow on the success of recent support slots on tour with Tom Hingley of the Inspiral Carpets and with Mel C at a charity concert for the homeless

Willow also play the Christchurch Festival earlier in the evening before their Southampton gig. For further information, check out the band's website at: www.willowweb.org.uk.

5 July, The Hobbit, Southampton. Performance: 9pm