WIRRAL rockers Guardians launch their new album later this month.

The band, formerly known as Hippys On The Hill, recorded the mini-album over the past couple of months. It will be launched during a gig at the Liverpool 02 Academy on Friday, December 30.

So far, the new tracks have been going down a storm at their gigs.

The Liverpool date comes at the end of a busy year for the group.

In recent weeks the boys have featured in Kerrang, played at Wirral's International Guitar Festival and changed the band's name.

Bass player Sean McMinn-Davies said: "It's been a good year for us. Wirral Guitar Festival was excellent - normally it’s more established older bands but they gave us our own gig which we weren’t expecting.

"It was a great night with more than 80 tickets sold.

"We'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who came along and supported us."

The name change has gone down well with the band's followers on social media sites and on YouTube.

Rhythm guitarist Craig Henderson said: "Changing a name is always a gamble for a band, but it's worked out really well and we want to thank everyone for sticking by us.

"Let's get as many down to the 02 Academy as possible to celebrate the new album with us and look forward to the new year!"

The band has lined up some gigs for the New Year. They are:

January 28: Mojo, Liverpool, as main support for Man Get Out. The show is being compered by radio presenter Janice Long.

February 4: Snub 2 at the Lomax, Liverpool.

February 11: Head of Steam, Lime Street, Liverpool.

Ticket details are available at Facebook and Twitter @GuardiansUK or online at ticketweb.co.uk