YOU know you’ve arrived as a rock band when your very appearance is enough to start a riot.

So let’s doff our caps to those masters of rebellion – Black Hats!

Nick Breakspear’s band are not only one of the best bands this city has ever produced, they are also probably it’s hardest working. And their selfless tour of duty around the county is the stuff of rock legend. Like the time they played in Wantage.

“We played the town’s carnival, and then there was a big riot,” says Nick. “Yes there was a riot in Wantage once! We deny that our music drove them to it, but... well!”

“We’ve done loads of strange gigs,” he goes on. “They include playing during an England game; in front of a lingerie store; during the interval of a pop quiz; and at a biker fest.”

The band are back this Saturday with a headline slot at the Jericho Tavern. The gig finds them at the top of their game, with their no-holds-barred indie rock going down a storm wherever they go – like at last weekend’s Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham.

“We played to about 600 people and had an amazing time,” says Nick. “We won lots of fans. It was totally rock ‘n’ roll!

“We are looking forward to Saturday,” he adds. “Last year’s show was amazing. Believe it or not, my dad is also playing Oxfringe this year – with the Oxford Harmony singers at the Holywell Music Room tomorrow. Oh yeah, the Breakspears are taking over!”