WELSH rockers Absinthe are preparing to cap off a tumultuous 2005 headlining at the Raglan Festival Christmas Concert this weekend.

The Brecon-based three piece, formed 18 months ago, have enjoyed critical acclaim for their debut album On Tap, receiving radio airplay and becoming a popular fixture on the South Wales circuit.

Now they headline the Festival Committee's one-off Christmas show at the Raglan Community Centre on Friday.

Jonny Quick, a spokesman for the Raglan Festival organisers said: "You've heard of Brecon Gin and Brecon Jazz - well this band is somewhere in between but a long way from both. They are extremely talented and tipped to become a commercial success."

Drawing on eclectic influences including The Allman Brothers, Jimmi Hendrix and Metallica, Absinthe have developed a sound steeped in the rhythms and infectious licks of classic rock.

Also on the bill are superb Newport-based Southern blues combo 'Hair' featuring Brian Humphreys and Mickey Simms. Mickey plays guitar in the popular rock band Zoo, whilst Brian is lead singer and harp player with Talkin' Blues and has worked with Captain Sensible, The Commitments, Dr and The Medics and The Selector.

Completing the line-up are Raglan's seven-strong rock orchestra, The Committee.

Tickets are fast running out. Some are available from Raglan Post Office, priced at £5, while a limited number will be admitted on the door. Under-16s enter free.