It’s not the subtlest metaphor: when a Scottish guitarist leaves successful indie-rock band The Union, its remaining members – an Englishman, a Welshman and a Northern Irishman – question their alliance. But with the independence referendum just a year away, I’m With the Band stands out as one of the few Fringe offerings to engage with the debate.

‘As a proud Welshman, I felt the whole Scottish independence debate has been conducted as if it’s an Anglo-Scottish issue,’ explains playwright Tim Price, who, along with director Hamish Pirie, was Olivier-nominated for Salt, Root and Roe in 2012. ‘It’s almost like an unhappy couple screaming at each other about how they want to separate, while the two kids sit on the stairs wondering if they’ll ever be asked their opinion on the family’s future.’

But it’s not all about politics. ‘First and foremost this is a play about a fictional band,’ says Price. ‘Hopefully people who have no interest in independence will enjoy a great play about four friends struggling to get through a break-up, with some great acting and some wonderful music.’

Traverse Theatre, 228 1404, 4–25 Aug (not 5, 12, 19), times vary, £18–£20 (£13–15). Previews 2 & 3 Aug, £13 (£6).