JO HOOK has learned the hard way that making it in the music business is far more pitfall-laden than most could imagine.

After a management deal for this versatile Canterbury singer-songwriter fell through, events seemed bleak.

"I don't think the company knew what to do with me. They liked my songs but I don't fit into a neat box as I don't look like a pop singer.

"The contract I was asked to sign would have fleeced me of my songs, but I did not want that, I wanted to sing them myself as they were personal."

Determined not to be beaten by the experience, she returned to the Canterbury area and set up her own band, Hook.

Their impressive self-financed debut album Settle Down is packed full of laid-back melodies that showcase Jo's expressive vocals.

"We have worked really hard in the last year and a half on it at Delta Studios in Chartham," she said.

"It's taken us a long time but we are proud of it and our producer Julian Whitfield has been a real inspiration."

Originally from Sussex, Jo, who works for the National Family and Parenting Institute, first began songwriting in her teens and found she had a natural way with a melody.

Moving to Kent to study at Canterbury University, she went on to gain an MA in women's studies. But the pull of music has always been strong and it was while in the city that she developed her songwriting further.

"I used to go to the Penny Theatre a lot where there were people who were amazingly supportive of my music and bands like Radiohead played there, but it's just a chain pub now.

"I've been playing with our drummer Becca Green for about six years now and she is amazing. She and bass player Nick recruited themselves really, then we were joined by our guitarist Jez.

"For me, singing and writing are the things that give me most comfort."

Still performing solo, Jo has played America, France, Greece and Germany.

Hook have enjoyed support slots with a wide range of acts, from indie rock's Cast to Suzanne Vega and Tom Robinson. They also played at last year's Kent Music Festival.

"That was a really good day, the crowd were great and we got bombarded by young kids wanting our autographs."

Hook play the Grey Lady, Tunbridge Wells.