CANVEY Island in Essex seems to be a breeding ground for musicians. Native islander Wilko Johnson, who plays The Brook in Southampton on Saturday, recruited young Steve Monti from his old stomping ground when he needed a new drummer.

Former percussionist Salvatore Ramundo moved to Japan just over a year ago, and Wilko wasted no time in offering Steve Monti the job.

Steve had previously played with the Jesus and Mary Chain and Curve, and performed on two albums with Wilko's former employer, the late, great Ian Dury.

The fact that Steve also had his own recording studio may have contributed to landing him the job!

Lining up with Wilko and Steve is another former Blockhead, Norman Watt-Roy.

Indian-born Stormin' Norman, rated as the best rock bass player in the business, Wilko's menacing stage presence and unique guitar technique and Steve's exuberant drumming all make for a superb show.

The band will be playing the usual stonkers written by Wilko when he was with Dr Feelgood, like Back In The Night and Sneakin' Suspicion.

They will also perform newer material from Wilko's last CD, Going Back Home.

Wilko Johnson is at The Brook, Southampton, on Saturday 13th January.

Tickets cost £6 in advance and are available on 023 8055 5366.