IT'S the name that rings the bell. Bolan. But once you hear the voice and the music the connection is complete. This is Rolan Bolan, son of 70s glam rock icon and T Rex frontman, Marc Bolan. KAREN STEPHEN managed to grab some time with Rolan who was in Manchester to play some of his Californian Soul music.

Okay Rolan, most obvious question. Are you influenced by your father's music?

Yes of course, a little. I'm actually influenced by lots of people -- my mother (Gloria Jones), Al Green, De La Soul.

You're in Manchester with your band, have you been to the north west before?

Yeh, we played Manchester's In The City a couple of years ago. This is a great place, my friend, a great place. Pity about the weather. Although today is really sunny. Just like LA!

Describe your music

I guess it's a bit rock with a bit of hip hop thrown in. Very eclectic. You know, my life has been surrounded by tragedy -- my dad died when I was two, but I write my songs from a place that is light in the darkness.

Your mum is Gloria Jones. Does she realise she has strong connections with the north west through her classic northern soul record, Tainted Love?

She is aware of that but I don't think she realises just how big it really was.

What's next for Rolan Bolan then?

More music, more touring and then back to sunny LA.