WORCESTER must seem small after the vast expanses of the States, but Robinson are certainly excited to be home.

The band - headed by Andy Robinson - have just returned from their American adventure and tonight will play their homecoming gig at Worcester Arts Workshop, debuting a new sound and even more enthusiasm than before.

It was the first time Robinson “the band” - John-Joe Murray on fiddle, Hywel Payne on drums, Will Hughes on bass and guitarist Richard Clarke - had all been out to the US. Previously, it was just Robinson himself - but this time, he was keen to share the experience with his group.

“It was incredible,” said Clarke. “The level and the quality of musicians was really, really high.”

He speaks excitedly of their time there - which involved playing at some of the hottest clubs in LA, in front of industry experts at South by Southwest - one of the largest music festivals in the country - and recording a new album.

By all accounts, it was a busy time and the result of the trip will be on show at the workshop this evening when they play a 12 song set, each telling a story of everyday love, life and hope with a twist of irony.

“Our interpretation of what happened in America was, because of the fact we were playing with excellent musicians we had to up our game,” said Clarke. “It made us play better and we now come in with a larger, full band sound.”

But the experience has done more than just influence the sound for the next album, however, it has also bought the band closer together.

“The nice thing about doing the tour has meant we have all kind of gelled and found a musical vibe,” said Clarke.

- Tonight’s gig costs £3, with all money raised going to Worcester Arts Workshop.

The workshop’s Amanda Hickling said: “We are really excited about Robinson playing here after their tour of the States and hope this will be one of many music events being held during the summer at Worcester Arts Workshop.”

For more information email info@worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk, call 01905 21095 or visit worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk.