A MUSICIAN from the Mearns is proving to be a hit on the European mainland.
Marcus Doo, who previously lived with his parents in Drumlithie, is the guitarist with the band Marcus Doo and the Secret Family, and they are becoming increasingly popular in Spain.
Marcus moved to Spain to teach English after graduating from Gl
asgow University. Along with a friend, David Sergeant, who, like Marcus, went to Mackie Academy, they formed a band with an international twist. Their bassist Greg Gobel is from Ohio, drummer Fabrice Gamon is from Paris and they have a Spanish vocalist, Rocio Leon.
Success has quickly snowballed for the band, whose music is now being played on Spanish radio stations and has been getting glowing reviews from the national music press.
Marcus said: "After one gig we attracted the interest of a very talented producer here and were invited to record a demo in CATA studios - the Abbey Road of Spain almost. We recorded the demo and since then we have been playing in bigger and bigger venues. It's all very exciting really."
They have also been nominated for, and are currently in joint first place for, the 'Best Demo' award at the national Spanish V Annual Premios Pop Eye and Independent Creation Awards. "We are keeping our fingers crossed with that one," Marcus said.
Stonehaven left a big impression on Marcus and the town has had a huge influence on his music.
He said: "I used to go to the folk festivals with my Dad and play with some local musicians at events. I particularly remember the outdoor benefit event in Stonehaven. There is lots of local talent there, including kids from Mackie Academy.
"Many of the songs the band are recording for our debut album were written in a small shed at the bottom of the garden in Drumlithie. As my parents live there I'm back at least twice a year, and I still get all my guitars and harmonicas from Celtic Chords - it's a fantastic wee shop!"
The band are currently negotiating with record companies to secure a deal, and have already made a good impression.
Marcus said: "We have received interest from many independent labels as well as major ones. We've had a couple of meetings with people who work for EMI and a guy who works for Universal is coming to our gig this week. Luckily, our drummers girlfriend is a lawyer so we have some handy friends to look over the contracts!"
The band are hoping to go into the studio at the end of March to record their first album. To listen to some of their music visit www.myspace.com/marcusdoo
