A STUDENT-RUN record label is about to release its first major EP, marking the next stage of its development.

On Thursday, Newcastle College’s Push Puzzle Records will release The Power by city band The Face.

The release will be supported by a gig at the college’s Space Bar venue to showcase the musical talent that exists on the label.

The Face have already had a taste of the big time, supporting indie stalwarts Ocean Colour Scene and legendary rock band Whitesnake in one-off gigs.

The band are fronted by former Newcastle College student Sean Hainey, 24, whose sound is influenced by 60s bands such as The Beatles and The Kinks.

With justified optimism, he says: “Without the help of Push Puzzle Records I wouldn’t have got many of the chances I’ve had. The EP is sounding amazing and the high times are awaiting us.”

Push Puzzle Records is managed by second-year foundation degree popular music students at the college’s Performance Academy.

It provides some of the region’s most promising students with practical experience of how the music industry works so they are better prepared when they finish their studies.

The EP launch event, which is free and open to all, will take place at Space Bar on the college’s Rye Hill campus and will include a performance by The Face plus support from fast-rising local band Built Like a Gun and DJs. Doors open at 6pm.

Scott Baker-Marflitt, real working environment co-ordinator in the music section of Newcastle College, and who also oversees the record label, says: “The release of Push Puzzle Records’ first EP is a major step forward for the label as it looks to establish itself as a major source of musical talent in the North East.

“There is a real buzz surrounding The Face and this release will no doubt help to further increase the band’s exposure. The more Push Puzzle establishes itself, the more our students will get out of it.”