Sunjay tours to Darlington

FOLK/BLUES performer Sunjay visits Darlington Folk club at The Copper Beech on Thursday, October 6. You could be forgiven for thinking at first listen; singer/guitarist Sunjay is older than his 21 years. With a relaxed and confident manner, vocal style and mastery of his instrument he walks onto a stage and addresses the audience as though he is sitting down to play music with a group of close friends rather. He picked up the guitar when he was four years old and hasn’t put it down since.

Sunjay’s style has that natural drift between folk and blues and there have been a clutch of award nominations, including winning the Wath Festival Young Performers Award. He also made the final selection for the BBC’s Young Folk Award, in 2012, had three nominations at the Exposure Music Awards 2014 and was also recognised by the 2014 British Blues Awards.

Drawing from a rich, musical and cultural background it is hardly surprising that Sunjay has quickly become recognised as one of the UK’s rising stars.

Last year saw him release Black & Blues at New Mountain Music Studios, with producer Eddy Morton (The Bushbury Mountain Daredevils), after it was recorded in a single day. The album, comprises ten traditional blues songs, interpreted and arranged by Sunjay, showcasing his powerful vocals and his intricate guitar-playing.

* Neasham Rd, Darlington, Durham, DL1 4DH. Doors: 8pm. Tickets: £8. Box Office: George Armstrong 07890 006204

Viv Hardwick