DANCE-rock band The Happy Mondays have been booked to celebrate the opening of Oxford's biggest live music venue.

The Manchester act, known for their outrageous antics - both on and off stage - and hedonistic lifestyles, are the first big-name band to be announced for the launch of the Carling Academy Oxford.

The Cowley Road venue, formerly The Zodiac, reopens in the autumn after a £2m refit. The Happy Mondays show, on October 5, is one of a series of high-profile concerts at the venue.

The Happy Mondays, fronted by Shaun Ryder, were one of the leading lights of the drug-fuelled 'Madchester' scene of the late 80s and early 90s.

Frontman Shaun Ryder, a former drug addict, is now reported to be pursuing a healthy lifestyle.

The band's line-up includes eccentric dancing percussionist Bez, who became a household name after winning Celebrity Big Brother in 2005.

They continue to have a huge following, and the Oxford show is expected to sell out within hours. The set will feature all the band's hits, such as iconic anthems Kinky Afro, Loose Fit and Step On.

Mr Ryder said: "We're all really excited to be playing at the Carling Academy Oxford - especially as this will be one of the first shows at such a brand, spanking new venue. Can't wait for it!"

A spokesman for the Happy Mondays said: "Shaun and Bez continue to do what they do with sheer brilliance, Bez still dancing his heart out and Shaun the cartoon lyrical mastermind, whilst Gaz Whelan, longtime original drummer, has taken up the mantle of musical director."

Carling Academy Oxford general manager Carl Bathgate said: "We're delighted to announce a very strong autumn season with the likes of the Happy Mondays, playing one of their most intimate gigs."

Tim Bearder, the presenter of BBC Radio Oxford's award-winning Download music show, said: "There's a lot of curiosity over who else might be playing. People are wondering whether they will reform Ride, or could Radiohead play?

"Although the Happy Mondays are an exciting band, they are a Manchester act - we're hoping to see an all-time great Oxford band adorn the stage."

Tickets are £25, available by calling 0871 2200 260 or online from