Burnley metal band I.C.O.N ready for homecoming

The rocking four-piece are playing Sanctuary’s big birthday weekender this Saturday and will be doing so with a new line-up.

After a challenging few months which saw the band’s long-time drummer depart and their temporary bass player move on, founder members vocalist Mark Sagar and guitarist Scott Knowles took time to audition new musicians to join them.

“It was a really stressful period if I’m honest,” said Scott. “Losing our long-time drummer was a huge blow to us. He chose to move on to do other things which is OK, but we did wonder for a while who we could possibly get to replace him.”

I.C.O.N immediately picked up the phone and rang a friend; ex-Iron Maiden singer Blaze Bayley’s former drummer Larry Paterson.

“We met Larry when we supported Blaze a couple of years ago, got on very well and frequently stayed in touch. So we rang and asked if he would step in and cover our European tour in July so the band didn’t have to cancel shows while we held auditions. Fortunately, he said yes immediately as he loves the band.”

Shortly after, I.C.O.N added Darwen bassist Reece Bevan to the line-up.

“Reece rang me to say that his band Nightmare Visions had split up and he was looking for a hard-working, dedicated band to join and wasn’t prepared to leave until we gave him the gig! He’s a nice guy and a fantastic bassist. He was a natural fit.”

With the band now taking shape again, Scott and co auditioned several drummers just before setting off on their European tour, eventually plumping for Manchester-based Aaron Youd.

“Aaron just fit in straight away,” said Scott. “He’s an enormous talent who won UK Drummer of the Year a few years ago when he was just 15!

“We’re delighted to have him on board.”

Now back to full strength, I.C.O.N are hard at work promoting their debut album “New Born Lie”, setting up more international dates and, of course, writing material for a second album, due to be recorded next year.

Doors for the Sanctuary gig open at 9 p.m. and entry is free.

Support comes from local thrashers Asythiate and Blackburn metal band Burnt Black Rebellion.

More information on I.C.O.N. can be found at www.facebook.com/icon.uk.