The latest single by Athlone band The Baines will be played in Everton's home ground, Goodison Park, at half-time during the game against Man City this weekend. (Photo: evertonfc.com)

Athlone band's new single to be played at Everton's game against Manchester City

Adrian Cusack

Published: Thu 24 Feb 2022, 7:08 PM

Last updated: Mon 28 Feb 2022, 10:30 AM

An up-and-coming indie rock band from Athlone received a huge boost this week with the news that their latest single, Bring It Up, will be played at half-time during this Saturday's Premier League fixture between Everton and Manchester City.

The song is by The Baines, who were formed by Athlone duo Kevin O'Neill and Cormac Sheerin, and are assisted in their recordings by well-known local musician Alan O'Neill.

Everton fan-favourite Leighton Baines provided the inspiration for the band's name, and Kevin O'Neill said the news that their single would be played at a packed Goodison Park on Saturday was "surreal".

"Everton got in touch on Wednesday, and we really couldn't believe it. Myself and Cormac are big Evertonians since childhood, so this is a huge honour for us," he said.

He added that the band was truly grateful to "everyone who has supported us" in the last few months.

The cover for Bring It Up by The Baines. Image credit: Robyn Minagh

The Baines' music can be heard on Spotify, and the band's six-song debut EP is currently being recorded. The first single from the EP is expected to be ready in the next 4 to 5 weeks.

The playing of Bring It Up at Goodison Park will cap a very positive month for The Baines, after former Oasis guitarist Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs recently expressed his admiration for the song and wished the band the very best for the future.

The Everton-Manchester City game will kick off at 5.30pm on Saturday.