Aside from the media frenzy aroused by Pop Idol, the traditional route to pop stardom continues at its usual pace. Newly signed to Mercury Records, the 45s are attempting to win a following by the good old-fashioned route of constant touring.

This doesn't prove so successful in Manchester, where the band slide on unannounced before a handful of people. "I'll understand it if you don't get too excited," quips svelte frontman Matt Hales. By the end of the evening, his tongue-in-cheek cynicism proves misplaced: the band exit to a standing ovation.

Even so, early signs aren't good. The band are partly rooted in Britpop, a movement hardly cold in its grave. Blur and Supergrass are obvious influences, as are the Small Faces. And the band's image is awfully contrived; almost unforgivably, the drummer wears a school tie over an old T-shirt. However, as things progress, the 45s establish their own identity, and in Hales, they have a star.

He is unquestionably good-looking - pale, with black hair, somewhere between Keanu Reeves and Adam Ant in the early days. His stage moves suggest hours in front of the bedroom mirror. But Hales has rare guile and is rich in character; he is arch, but not in a passionless way. His wit and fervour are reminiscent of Morrissey. "This is a song featuring handclaps," he grins. "Essential in the world of pop."

Gradually, this becomes a one-man show. Hales tells us that his art is based on "songs about girls, and the things they make us do". He then delivers an imaginary rock musical, narrating between tracks. Mr Universe describes what happens when the guy gets the girl: "It gets seedy... but in a nice way." The chiming Waiting for My Heart to Break is "the tragic postscript". Wonderfully, Hales even calls for "a moment's reflection before we begin" and presides over a minute's silence.

At the end, he climbs upon a stool and, theatrically, dives flat on to the floor. He is a real pop idol who will surely find a bigger audience.

· The 45s play the Victoria Inn, Derby (01332 740091), tonight, then tour.