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Don Powell's supergroup set sights on Robin 2 gig

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He will forever be known for being the powerhouse behind the anthems of Slade – but drummer Don Powell is looking to show a new side to himself with a new supergroup.

Don, who provided the thundering drums behind the Black Country glam gods has joined up with bass player and vocalist Suzi Quatro, as well as Andy Scott of the Sweet to form QSP – a play on all their names.

The band is the brainchild of Quatro, who invited Scott and Bilston lad Don to come together for a jam session earlier this year, and now Don has his sights set on a hometown gig at Bilston's Robin 2.

Suzi Quatro had the idea for the new supergroup

The trio clicked and recorded an album's worth of covers and new tracks which they will release in the new year after inking a deal with Sony Music, who were instrumental in convincing the band to get out on the road. Don said of the formation: "It all started a few years ago. We did a big show in Birmingham and afterwards we were having a cup of tea and Andy said we would make a good band.

"We all made contact with each other, had a few days' rehearsal and it worked fantastically so we decided to do some recording together.

"We started recording in Peter Gabriel's studio in Bath which is a fantastic place. That's where we recorded the album.

"Sony have signed us and it comes out in the new year. We then head over to Australia to do some shows."

"The album is a bit easier and more melodic than what Slade do. We've had a great time doing the project together and known each other a long time. It felt like we'd been playing together for years and we were pleasantly surprised.

"I'd like to think we'd be coming to the UK for some shows. There's lots of places that we would like to go to across the country. And it would be nice to play the Robin 2!" Don enjoyed the recording process. "

We used girl backing vocalists, keyboard player and a sax player. The album is all finished and mixed, we recorded in the old fashioned way of all being in the studio together and playing together."

The band will support Quatro, who is taking her Leather Forever tour Down Under in the new year. Prior to the tour, Don is set to celebrate 50 years of Slade with a triumphant homecoming show at the Robin 2. The band is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the current line-up, which includes original members Dave Hill and Don, play the venue on December 16.

Next year, a convention marking the band's achievements will be held at the same venue on May 28.

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