Scottish band FRANZ FERDINAND's triumphant MERCURY MUSIC PRIZE victory will inspire a new generation of rock fans, according to
critics.

The TAKE ME OUT stars - who beat off competition from THE STREETS, JOSS STONE and THE ZUTONS to scoop the prestigious award in London on Tuesday (07SEP04) - have been hailed by music experts for their intelligent approach to the rock genre, following years of lightweight artists.

And critics believe Ferdinand's style has captured the interests of the record buying public.

PAUL REES, editor of Britain's Q magazine, says, 'Good bands seem to be coming back - interesting music appears to be coming around.

'In recent years the music scene has been very much pop-dominated, but now albums from Franz Ferdinand and KEANE have stuck in the charts and have been consistent sellers.'