It is the careless disregard for contemporary musical convention that makes 4 piece The Religion a unique proposition. Playing a hybrid of classic progressive and blues infused Rock with a penchant for unusual time signatures, the band sounds like they've walked straight out of a 1970's time warp.

But, unlike most of the iconic prog groups to grace the airwaves over the last 4 decades, The Religion pushes the guitar from the forefront of its distinctive sound and advocates a new role for piano and keys. The result is a refreshing new slant on classic rock & roll - imagine a Led Zeppelin reincarnated, with Jimmy Page on Steinway grand.

This is topped by the unique voice of lead singer and front man Joe Kelly, who has a range similar to Robert Plant, but a croak not unlike the boozy raspings of Tom Waits. One imagines he has smoked his fair share of Winfield reds. That he is supported by 3 blistering musicians, each of whom brings an inimitable style and craftsmanship to their instruments, is simply the icing on the cake to this surprising outfit.

M. A Traill, formally the drummer for Andy Clockwise, during his Classic FM national tour, heads percussive duties at times exhibiting the subtlety and flair of a jazz specialist while still providing a slamming foundation for the up tempo numbers.

Joe West, a soulful lead guitarist in the vein of a Clapton or Hendrix adds a sense of credibility and authenticity often missing from many of today's emerging rocks acts. Having previously played with Derek Trucks and Doyle Bramhall II of Eric Clapton's band, his fingers are a major contribution to The Religion's sound.

Bass player is the enigmatic G Haard, known in the Sydney music scene for contributions to local acts such as The Forgotten Army, Hip Hop outfit Rayzor Records and, more recently metal outfit The Attica Rebellion.

Lead singer, keys player and principal song writer Joe Kelly cut his teeth writing for the stage having set the music to the 2006 AWGIE award winning theatre piece Shakespearean Idol.

The newly formed group have been playing for a matter of months, already impressing audiences at a series of Sydney shows with their unusual but impressive set, showcasing their musical talent. Their debut album Seas of Mercury will be out through Cohort/Universal in the UK on general store release, Monday July 19th 2010, and before via direct campaigns.