The Longsands have been playing dates with one of Greece's biggest acts – Matisse, who have supported the likes of the Kaiser Chiefs, Garbage and Marylin Manson.

The Longsands successfully released two singles in 2007, completed a UK tour, played a sell out gig at The Sage Gateshead for the launch of their second single, recorded a track for Newcastle United, and now they are looking for fresh new ways to show case their phenomenal sound to new audiences across the world.

Ian Barnes, guitarist and songwriter for The Longsands, said: "Everybody wants to be signed and recognised as an artist straight away but these days talent alone is not enough in the UK.

"You need to prove that you can sell out the best venues, make a stamp on the national press and radio and be almost a finished article ready for the labels to sell quickly and make their money.

"More so now than ever the UK music scene is monopolised by 'flash in the pan' bands who will be forgotten tomorrow.

"We have sold out big tour venues, sold thousands of CDs, and more importantly have songs that we believe can stand the test of time, but like every other artist we need one special platform that will separate us from the rest.

"We firmly believe that we have an opportunity in Greece to play to a totally different industry and hopefully turn a few heads in the UK as well."

The Longsands have already had radio play on the continent and have been in contact with representatives from Sony BMG Greece who are scheduled to catch the band in Athens on the last night of the tour.

For further information on The Longsands visit www.longsands.co.uk