Though widely overlooked at the time, Big Star and Alex Chilton have since been given cult superstar status and are often cited as major influences by the likes of Flaming Lips, Teenage Fanclub and Starsailor.

Big Star was originally formed in 1971 in Memphis, Tennessee, by Chris Bell (guitarist/vocalist), bass player Andy Hummel, drummer Jody Stephens. The group was complete with the addition of Alex Chilton on guitar and vocals.

Their beautifully crafted pop songs could have been influenced by the likes of Velvet Underground, The Beatles Revolver album, The Byrds and The Kinks.

The band reformed in 1993 and have been together ever since, though unfortunately Chris Bell is no longer a member.

One critic was quoted as saying Big Star were:

“the quintessential American power pop band [and] one of the most mythic and influential cult acts in all of rock & roll.”

Big Star play London’s Shepherds Bush Empire on Thursday 28th August. I can only assume this means they will be in the UK for at least part of the summer festival season.

Support comes from the wonderful Robyn Hitchcock.  Tickets are £17.50