Collibus make history as the first rock band to play House of Commons

Collibus, the Manchester-based heavy-metallers, made history by being the first rock band ever to play the House of Commons.

Having won the 2013 Discretionary Rock Award of Parliament's largest competition, Rock the House, Collibus kicked off the 2014 competition with tracks from their hotly anticipated album, The False Awakening.

Lead vocalist, Gemma Fox, said: 'We never imagined that entering Rock the House would lead to us winning the Rock award, getting a slot to play Download Festival, and now making history by playing a set in Parliament. It's an honour to kick off the 2014 competition while launching our album in Parliament ' we urge all musicians to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity and enter.'

Rock the House Founder, Mike Weatherley MP, said: 'I was blown away by Collibus' music and, as a fan, I am personally excited to see their set. As an MP, I am so proud to give a Parliamentary platform to an alternative demographic and our vibrant creative industries with which to educate legislators of the importance of protecting British Intellectual Property.'

Parliament's largest competitions, Rock the House and Film the House, were launched at a 2014 at gala reception on the Terrace Pavilion of the House of Commons on 19th November.

The reception saw live performances from some of the 2013 winners, including Mic Lowry, Vanessa Murray and Collibus.

Keynote addresses were given by Rt Hon Speaker Bercow, Rt Hon Lord Puttnam and competition Founder Mike Weatherley MP.

Music-News.com were in attendance to see the historical moment and can verify a great night was had by all, including patron - Queen's - Brian May who chatted at length to winners Collibus.

Brian May said 'It is a great honour to back Rock the House. The UK is a hotbed of musical talent from all genres, and if the British music industry is going to grow and thrive then musicians need to be able to make a living from selling their product. This competition gives all musicians, from all backgrounds the chance to get out there and make live music ' one of the things Brits do best.'