PROVIDING a platform for emerging artists to have greater local opportunities to ‘transform’ their music is the aim for the Electric Palace when they launch a new initiative called Transformer next week.

Membership is free and members will be offered rehearsal space, music masterclasses, ticket discounts and the opportunity to audition for live music events.

The Electric Palace has welcomed big names including The Kills, Grandmaster Flash, Johnny Marr, Courtney Pine as well as local musicians Billy Bragg and PJ Harvey, who has herself has used the palace for rehearsal space.

The name Transformer has taken inspiration from musician Lou Reed’s most successful album.

Lou Reed, whose recent death served as a reminder to the massive influence he has had in the music industry, played in several bands during high school and it was several decades before he achieved mainstream commercial success. Transformer will be launched on Monday, February 10. Doors open at 7.30pm. The gig starts at 8pm and tickets are £10 plus booking fee in advance, £12 on the door, student discounts £5.