Poised to become the biggest British export since the Arctic Monkeys, Reverend and The Makers are creating an infectious fusion of electro-pop and nu-rave madness. Reverend aka Jon McClure, spoke to Nick Milligan about why The Makers have a message you should listen to.

Nick: Is that really your brother Chris on the cover of the Arctic Monkeys album, Whatever People Say I am, That's What I'm Not?

Jon: That is indeed the man himself! They asked me to do it, but I’ve got my own record, so it would be stupid to be on theirs. [Chris] sums up the album title in many ways, because he looks like a thug, but he’s actually quite a sensible and articulate guy. He grew his hair afterwards, but then he shaved it all off again because no one recognised him – I think he revelled in the attention. He certainly got a few free bevvies out of it !

Nick: Is it true that a record label offered you £200,000 to write an album that sounded like the Arctic Monkeys and you politefully declined?

Jon: Yes, because I think my music’s got integrity. I wanted to make a record my way, rather than be railroaded by a major label. I wanted to make the greatest record ever. I feel like I’ve done that and its been on my terms. I’m doing things lyrically and sonically that other bands just aren’t doing at the moment, because I think they’re scared. Musicians have become a lot more savvy and business-like to the detriment of the music. If you prostitute yourself once, then you’ll remember that forever.

The State Of Things is available October 6th through [PIAS] / Wall Of Sound / Liberator.