Since their win at the Canadian festival, the band have generated a solid fan base with performances at the prestigious Canadian Music Week and the Rogers Spring Music Festival. In the U.S, the band is gaining recognition and airplay as songs from their 2007 release, Exit Here, have been making it onto the television airwaves.

During their time at home, Vesta Varro will also be hosting one of the first ever international showcases for Indie Week outside of Canada. Since the Limerick lads won the title last year, other Irish bands have been looking to make their way into Indie Week 2008 and organiser Darryl Hurs, will be making the trip over to take part in evaluating the acts. "This is a great way to see what the music scene is like in Ireland," says Hurs, "It has been fantastic working with such a professional act like Vesta Varro and who knows maybe there will be another gem."

Meanwhile, Vesta Varro's Rod Smith has been encouraging Irish talent to get involved in the festival. "Playing at Indie Week was one of the best decisions we've made as a band" says Smith. "If you're any bit serious about getting your music out there and want to meet and play to the people who can make it happen, then this is the festival for you!"

Vesta Varro play the Village, Dublin on July 24 and Dolans, Limerick on July 25 as well as dates in Sligo, Mullingar, Cork, Tipperary and Monaghan. For full details, visit see www.myspace.com/vestavarro

Indie Week Toronto takes place from October 7- 11. For more information, visit www.indieweek. com

The Hot Press Newsdesk