SUFFOLK-based pop band The Cheek has signed an album deal, the Evening Star can today reveal.

SUFFOLK-based pop band The Cheek has signed an album deal, the Evening Star can today reveal.

The five strong band - which used to be called Cheeky Cheeky and the Nosebleeds - have signed with A&M record label which is part of the Universal Music Group.

The label currently records with artists such as The Police and Duffy.

A spokesman for the band confirmed the deal.

He added: “I can confirm The Cheek have signed with A&M. The band is currently in Belgium recording their album.”

All the band members are from the Woodbridge, Saxmundham and Framlingham areas of Suffolk.

Speaking during a break in recording The Cheek frontman Charlie Dobney said: “We signed the contract at the end of June in the Kings Head in Woodbridge and went to Aldeburgh for fish and chips.

“As soon as we signed we have focused on the task ahead and we have been working hard on creating a fantastic debut album.”

Charlie, 20, of Sweffling, near Saxmundham, said the band is “extremely excited” about the deal.

He added: “We have been working towards a record deal for a few years and we are all extremely excited.”

The band, which describes its music as “pop with guitars”, is recording the album, which is untitled at the moment, with producer Ed Buller who has worked with bands such as Pulp and Suede, he is also originally from Suffolk.

Charlie said Roxy music saxophonist Andy Mackay has also been recording with the band.

The Cheek is due to play at the Latitude Festival later this month.

For more information about the Suffolk music scene, band profiles, pictures and gig listings visit the Evenning Star's music site www.lovemusic24.co.uk

What do you think of The Cheek? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk

Rory Cottam, 20, of Woodbridge - Vocals

Charlie Dobney, 20, of Sweffling - Guitar and vocals

Thom Hobson, 21, of Rendham - Bass

Christian Daniels, 20, of Martlesham - Guitar

Ali Bartlett, 18, of Framlingham - Drums