In a publishing first, the issue of Hot Press to be released today, 9 September, sees five Irish acts being given the Hot Press cover treatment!

The issue will feature four unsigned Irish acts in separate 'back covers' of copies, with acclaimed Irish band The Script on the main front cover.

The four unsigned acts – who will all feature in the final Guinness Our Thursdays showcase in Belfast this week, which is linked to the upcoming Arthur's Day celebrations – are Dave Peyton, Reko, Maud in Cahoots and Empire Saints. Each will appear on the 'flip' cover of a quarter of the print run of Hot Press for this unique issue.

Commented Hot Press editor, Niall Stokes, "The Script are one of the most important new Irish acts of the past decade. They deservedly sold millions of their debut album and have a new album, which promises to do even better, set to invade the charts.

"With them on the front cover of the magazine, we're delighted to be able to give an incredible five Irish acts the cover treatment this issue, including four acts who are at the beginning of their career.

"Irish music is in a wonderfully healthy state at the moment as the quality of the Guinness Our Thursdays finalists confirms. Hopefully becoming Hot Press cover stars will be a significant boost to the progress of all of the bands."

You can find more info on these bands and more in the new issue of Hot Press, out today, 9 September. To buy a copy of the current issue, please click here.