THE Northern Echo's music website, Revolution, is about to launch its own charts.

They will be regional and will feature albums released by North-East and North Yorkshire bands and artists.

From next month, the band or artist can select the single to be released from the album, and a loop of the song will be uploaded on to the website so that fans can listen and vote.

The top single will be calculated twice a month, although it is hoped to make that weekly by the summer.

"There are some excellent albums being released by bands and artists across the region, but some of the best music does not have wide exposure because lots of people don't go to gigs or buy these albums," said Sean Leonard, Revolution web editor.

"The creation of the Revolution charts will give music fans a chance to hear some quality music.

"It will also add a bit more competition to the North-East music scene and, of course, that's always healthy."

Bands and artists are encouraged to submit their CDs to Sean at Revolution, The Northern Echo, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF.

Discs cannot be returned. Material must be original and submitted by an unsigned act. Include full contact details.

For more details, log on to www.thisisrevolution.co.uk