HAVING tasted fame as lead guitarist for 1980s punk rock band The Alarm, Dave Sharp knows a thing or two about the British music business.

And right now, he doesn't like what he sees.

So, after 10 years away in America, he has returned to Britain ready to show today's new bands how it's done.

He said: ''I left Britain because I grow as an artist. Since then, I've noticed less and less British rock music making any sort of lasting impact, especially in America.''

''Music used to be our most amazing export but the credibility of British music is suffering badly. Everybody thinks they can fool the public with too much hype and not enough substance.''

''I thought it's about time someone came over here and got something fresh together.''

Manchester-born Dave was with The Alarm from its formation until it disbanded in 1991. After some UK solo releases, he de-camped to New Orleans and produced mainly acoustic work.

But in 2002, he began seeking out talented musicans in Britain and formed The Soul Company.

Now the group's debut album - The Power of Soul - is set for release on May 10.

Dave will give Huddersfield audiences a taste of the record when he plays a solo gig at Zephyr bar on April 19.

''I haven't played a gig for a while and I'm always up for helping anyone out with music.''

''It has been a long time since I've been anywhere near Huddersfield and I'm very much looking forward to checking out what's happening on the local scene.''

''The fact that people are still interested in getting music together at grass roots level is great. It's something that needs to happen.''

Dave believes musicians should develop their skills this way before they enter the `corporate machine'.

He said: ''There's great talent out there but people need the chance to grow before they get into the corporate frenzy. If not they end up sounding just like everyone else.''

Dave, now 46, has noticed that today's younger generation are looking to the same artists who inspired him.

''I see young people listening to older stuff, because it has longevity.''

''Kids coming up the ranks today are just as talented as artists always have been, but they are groomed to be extremely successful for a short period of time. Their stuff doesn't have any lasting impact.''

* Dave will be on stage at Zephyr from 9pm. Entry is free.Visit www.soulco.org for more information.