London, January 12 : Director Guy Ritchie has launched his own record company ‘Punchbowl Recordings’, named after his London pub The Punch Bowl.

The ‘Sherlock Holmes’ helmer has even signed the venue''s house band ‘The Punchbowl Band’ as the first act to get a record deal.

"It''s exciting to venture into the music industry. It''s a tough place but I''ve seen this band connect with people,” the Daily Express quoted Ritchie as saying.

He added: “They have every chance of being embraced by a wider audience."

Meanwhile, actor Robert Downey Jr. and Stella McCartney have already booked the band for private gigs.

The Irish rockers'' debut album, ‘Journey’, is set to release on March 1. (ANI)