Dave Rowntree, the drummer for the long-time UK indie revivalist group Blur, told The UK Independent that he plans to run for his local council as a Labour candidate in Marylebone.

"I've been a long-standing member of the Labour party and active in local politics for a while," Rowntree said. (See video below)

"I'm a Westminster resident and in my experience of living here, it all looks lovely - there are hanging baskets everywhere - but you only need to scratch beneath the surface and see that there's a lot of deprivation and a lot of inequality around. I think someone needs to do something about it."



Despite his notoriety, Rowntree will have to campaign hard for the position because the Marylebone ward is traditionally conservative.

One fan - Lovelyrita - wrote on the band's official message board: "I'm sure Damon [Damon Albarn, songwriter/founding member and singer] has always known Dave's labour convictions, so I don't think that can be a problem between them.

The problem for us, though is that if Dave is elected, well, I don't think it's very appropiated [sic] for a politician to play music in a band... even if that band is Blur. That's my opinion, at least. So, let's hope he doesn't get elected... sorry, Dave."

Labels: Best Indie Artists, Blur, Blur Drummer, Blur Music, Classic Indie, Dave Rowntree, Music and Politics

The red-hot indie rock outfit, Arctic Monkeys, are not melting polar caps but they are gaining gaggles of new fans around the world.

Next week, the Arctic Monkeys will perform on Radio 1's Live Lounge on Monday, April 16 at 10 a.m. (London time; so 3 a.m. PST).

Later that day, at 1pm, Radio 1 deejay Zane Lowe will present the Arctic Monkeys' London Astoria show and a band interview.

If you miss out, chances are the programs will be re-run or archived, but no guarantees.

Stay tuned to IRC for more information and updates by subscribing to the IRC feed.

Arctic Monkey Links:

- Arctic Monkey Win Two Brit Awards
- Arctic Monkeys Edged Out By The Killers for MTV Award
- Arctic Monkeys Official homepage

Labels: Arctic Monkeys, Arctic Monkeys Interview, Arctic Monkeys Live, Arctic Monkeys Show, BBC Music, Indie Rock Interviews, Radio One, The Arctic Monkeys