Offering a showcase for local talent, each night will feature performances from four bands in the Cavern Bar, at The Boat – a venue whose musical heritage goes back to the 1960s.

Originally conceived in 2005/06 Band Explosion, at the Boat, quickly established itself as the place to play, attracting musicians from the immediate area and from Worksop, Derby, Mansfield and Chesterfield – including signed bands.

Steve Rawlinson, guitarist with The Amplifires and originator of Band Explosion, said: "I've been playing music in bands for years and it has become apparent that there are fewer and fewer venues offering real music – the apprenticeship route has gone.

"At the same time, DJs, karaoke and people singing along to backing tracks are becoming known as live entertainment.

"Band Explosion is a stepping stone for bands that find it difficult to get gigs at the free-entry venues because they haven't got the right material, enough of it or they are likely to attract an audience with more adventurous tastes than hackneyed 70s covers. Band Explosion is an opportunity for musicians to play and for people to hear them."

Landlord Dave White added: "My family previously hosted Band Explosion, at the Boat, and it was a fantastic success; everything from bands playing Oasis covers to ska, indie, pop and thrash – all musical styles are welcome."

Band Explosion is looking to feature local bands playing a variety of musical styles.

Initially running fortnightly, from September 26, Band Explosion will go weekly from early December 2008.

To arrange a slot or for more information bands should contact Dave White, at The Boat, on (01629) 823282.