A NEW bar celebrating Newport’s music history, and acting as a hub for musicians and artists, is set to open in the city centre.

El Siecos, described as a “musical museum with Newport-themed cocktails”, will open in High Street, Newport, tomorrow at 7pm.

Inspired by his grandfather John Sicolo, who ran former Newport music venue TJ’s for 39 years, owner Ashley Sicolo said the venue pays tribute to the city’s music scene.

Memorabilia celebrating the city’s music history is displayed on the walls of the venue, including a mural of Stone Roses frontman, Ian Brown, and a tribute to former owner of TJ’s Mr Sicolo.

Grandson Mr Sicolo, 27, from Newport, said the venue was ‘inspired’ by his grandfather.

“It’s based on the music history of Newport,” he said.

“Everything within the premises has got a connection with the music world.

“We will be doing exhibitions every two to three months, based on Newport themes, and the cocktail names are based on places in the city.”

Mr Sicolo also said he will hope it will add to the existing bars in the area of the city, and that he was keen those involved in setting up the bar were from Newport.

One of those involved was artist Antony Smith, from Caerleon, Newport, who made the mural of Ian Brown.

Mr Smith, who runs an art studio, said he was pleased to help get the venue up and running.

He said: “As well as a rock and roll museum it will be a hub where artists and musicians can come together to share their memories of Newport.

“There is a lot of music history to celebrate.”

The venue will launch with a party at 7pm tomorrow and will be open seven days a week. Cocktails named after city locations will include Port and Proud, Pill Collada, Duffryn Delight and Ringland Raver.

One of the venue's first events will be as organisers, alongside Lee Williams Showcase Promotions, to The Sounds of Manchester concert at The Neon in Newport on Sunday, May 27.

Stone Roses tribute band The Clone Roses will perform at the concert from 7pm.

A pre-party will be taking place at El Siecos from around midday on Sunday.

Revellers will also be able to return for an after-party at the new venue from around 11.15pm.