Sharks, witches and ships | Nil by Mouth 2012

Following the success of last year's two day event at V-Gen in Paceville, the second edition of The Nil By Mouth Sessions returns on October 5 and 6 at V-Gen, Ball Street, Paceville in what promises to be a memorable weekend for many an alternative music fan.

For this year's edition, HairyAmp and The Gooboy  have lined up three critically acclaimed British bands plus three fantastic local acts.

Headlining this year's edition on Saturday are three-piece Brighton outfit Esben & The Witch. The only British band signed to legendary US label Matador Records, Esben & The Witch took the alternative world by storm last year when the released their debut album Violet Cries.

On the back of the albums success, they were able to headline their own tour plus earning prestigious support slots for the likes of The XX and Wild Beasts. In the same year they were also nominated for BBC's Sound of 2011 and Q Magazine's Next Big Thing.

This is a band that have forged a sound that springs forth from minds soaked in influences far and beyond any standard set of musical touchstones. Nature and literature, art and science, history and the unknown - the trio eschews the everyday for inspiration drawn from sources weird and wonderful, as well as the occasional Scott Walker and PJ Harvey record. And the results? Pointed beats, percussive drama and ethereal atmospherics.

Also featuring on Saturday night are local outfits The Areola Treat and Carrie Haber. Miles apart musically, The Areola Treat belt out one relentless riff after another, leaving audiences in awe with their sheer power and stage presence. Carrie Haber is a different affair altogether, melting hearts with just a piano and a powerful mesmerizing voice at her disposal.

Friday promises to be another brilliant night. Young up and coming local band Violent Violets open the proceedings before London based brother and sister duo Joe Gideon & The Shark. Signed to Bronzerat Records (Seasick Steve, Gemma Ray, John Spencer Blues Explosion) this space-blues duo have supported bands like Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Danielson.

They also featured on the whole UK Tour of music legends Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. Apparently, Cave is a big fan.

The night reaches its climax when Tall Ships take to the stage. They have just headlined the BBC Introducing Stage at the Reading and Leeds Festival.

They have been compared to anyone from Battles, to Foals. People keep talking about their unforgettable live shows. Tall Ships are fast gaining a reputation for being one of the most exciting new bands in the UK right now.

They play Malta three days prior to the release of their much awaited debut album Everything Touching before they embark on a lengthy UK tour.

The Nil by Mouth Sessions 2012 is brought to you in collaboration with The British Council. The event is also being sponsored by Argento Hotel and Event Solutions.

Tickets can be bought directly online from www.hairyampmalta.com or from Coach and Horses, Msida or V-Gen Paceville. Individual day tickets are at €12 Block Tickets at €18. Prices at the door will be higher.

For more information please check the event page on Facebook and HairyAmp's website. Also contact 99 846382/79 861473.