Think punk rock is all bad attitude, aggression and noise? Well, a bunch of dudes from America could be about to change your mind.

Homegrown play melodic punk with energy and fun.

Valuing hooks and 'heart' over aggression and angst, these cocky southern Californians are big on energy and irreverence and appear to posses that most unusual of traits - thoughtfulness.

Last seen in Oxford supporting Something Corporate, the boys return to headline at the Zodiac on July 6.

Don't be misled. This is not easy listening. Homegrown are not afraid to rock out. They make a virtue of changing their style and challenging their fans.

"They're growing up with us," says vocalist-bassist Adam Lohrbach. "You can't keep writing songs about how some girl broke your heart in high school.

"I have to sing about what's happening in my life now, although I'm still going to act like a goofball for the rest of my life."

For all their knock-about japes, you sense there is something deep to Homegrown.

If you heard their album Kings of Pop, you will know what all the fuss is about.

Produced by Steve Evetts (Saves The Day, Snapcase), the band's third full-length album features bittersweet numbers like You're Not Alone alongside Love Sucks and

shout-alongs like I Love You Not. (the song titles say it all).

It shouldn't work, but it does, thanks largely to the band's talent for pure melody.

"We explored everything we've always wanted and each song has its own character" says vocalist-guitarist John E. Trash. "But we didn't slow down or get soft."

The show, presented by The Club That Cannot Be Named, is open to over-13s. Doors open 7pm. Tickets £7 in advance/£8 on the door. Box office 01865 420042.