NEWPORT'S been waiting for Goldie Lookin' Chains' NCLA show like it's the latest brand of shell-suit tracksuit.

Shops will be stripped of all 'bling' forming items to adorn the good 1,500 posse that will fill the hall for the as-yet unsigned band.

And all other venues will empty as the troupe of mystical rappers cast their wordy spells over the crews of Moorland Park, Ringland, and the rest of 'the Port'.

The media frenzy has not quietened since the Argus's introduction to them last year and double-page expos last month, with other Welsh papers following suit.

But it remains to be seen how far the band will go with its 'international sound of toilet humour'.

A record deal has yet to announced despite the courting warbles of several hip-hop/rap labels sounding them out down the phone.

There's still a chance that they'll remain a freak show but there is some serious talent in the band.

Eggsy, aka MC Love Eggs, is a comedy writer in his own right and may well launch his own career off the back of GLC.

And the producer and DJ, P. Xain, doesn't have to make backdrops for comedy rapping forever.

Perhaps they could make it along without a record deal, selling their albums over the Net to a hungry public.

A million miles away and then some, Marillion are quietly revolutionising the music business by selling their next album to fans before it's even written.

Cash donations are sent via the band's website with which they record and market a record then post fans a copy.

Could GLC do this if their racy rants prove too much for a content-wary industry? GLC play Newport City Live Arena tonight.