If you are a big fan of The Futureheads then you are in for a treat, the rockers are playing a rare gig at the Ben and Jerry's festival in Clapham Common this Sunday.

The fourpiece from Sunderland have been locked in the studio in recent months putting together their fourth album and their second since going independent and to that end have been keeping a low profile on the live circuit.

However, the lure of this weekend's festival proved too much to resist.

"We are in the middle of making an album so we haven't agreed to too many shows this summer," says guitarist Ross Millard.

"I think that is something most bands do, lie low while recording.

"But this offer came along and it sounds like it should be fun.

"I have a few friends that have been before and it's supposed to be a really relaxed atmosphere.

"There's not really any pressure at these festivals and you can just walk around and see some cool stuff and then go up on stage. You feel a lot more comfortable doing it."

Ross and band mates Barry Hyde, David Craig and Peter Brewis were tipped for big things when their self-titled debut album came out in 2004 and their cover of Kate Bush's Hounds of Love became a radio anthem.

Things took a turn for the worse though with their second album, News and Tributes, failing to sell well and the band were dropped by record label 679 recordings, something Ross actually believes worked in their favour.

"The time after the second album was difficult," he admits.

"After it came out we knew something wasn't right as we weren't happy with what we had done with the record and they weren't happy with us that it didn't have any songs for the radio on it.

"It was destined to end really, they are nice people but I was surprised they were given such an advanced position by Warner Brothers because it was a little ad hoc at times.

"It's been fairly interesting going independent though and a lot more rewarding.

"For us it has been a good experience and we have been more involved in things like touring and sorting out the tours.

"I think it's the future for bands because it gives you a lot more control over what you do."

Full line-ups:

Saturday - Super Furry Animals - Teenage Fanclub - I Am Kloot - King Creosote - Tommy Reilly - Marina and the Diamonds - Telegraphs

Sunday - The Human League - The Futureheads - Camera Obscura - Red Light Company - The Answering Machine - The Brute Chorus

The Futureheads, Ben & Jerry's Sundae on the Common, July 26, 12-8pm. Visit benjerry.co.uk