There is something earnest, reliable and robust about the name British Sea Power. It evokes images of choppy seas, storm-battered trawler-men, the futile human fight against marine adversity and the incumbent conditions that can turn it into an enemy, as well as a friend. The band themselves aren't quite as weather-beaten as their name suggests, but earnest, reliable and robust they've certainly been since appearing on the music-scene in 2000.

Emotional indie-rock that has more in common with The Enemy, Echo and the Bunnymen and James than Coldplay or Snow Patrol, BSP's canon is loaded with a veritable array of intelligent melodic tunes ("Please Stand Up") and fist-pumping belters ("Who's in Control"). In fact until close of play today (25th Jan), you can head to BBC 6 Music's website and vote for their single "Remember Me" in the station's 'Greatest Hits' poll - http://www.bbc.co.uk/6music/vote/100-greatest-hits/

BSP's lovely forlorn soundtracking skills were recently revealed once again on the 2012 documentary "From the Sea to the Land Beyond", shown on BBC 4 to rapturous acclaim during the Festive period. Footage of seaside towns of a bygone age and their stirring, sometimes mournful, music made for a perfect match, so much so that the DVD is due for release this month.

Later in the spring, it's back to live action for British Sea Power with a tour that begins in Exeter on 4th April, takes in the likes of Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow, etc until Shepherd's Bush on the 17th. Tickets on sale now, either at 9am or 12am, depending on the venue. Prices start at £13.50 (£15 for London).