A POPULAR Essex musician will be promoting his newly released songbook with a warm up gig in Maldon.

Singer-songwriter and musician Richard Townend has released a new songbook “Tales of a Batley Boy” which retraces his Yorkshire roots.

The work also explores the meaning behind the songs on his latest album Goldfever.

The songbook features lyrics, music and also high-quality photography by Keith Blundy, is a new direction for Richard, allowing him to delve deeper into the feelings, emotions and stories that are used in his award winning songs.

To celebrate and promote the songbook, as well as the release of his new album “God Bless America” on October 14, Richard will be performing several warm up gigs including one at the Blue Boar Hotel in Maldon on Friday.

Richard, who grew up in Batley in Yorkshire but is now based in Mundon, said: “I’ve not been back to Batley much since moving away as a Teenager.

“But I came back to film the video and the town has changed a lot but it has still got its character.

“I am Batley born and bred and we lived in various places, finally at Upper Batley Lane. “I attended Batley Grammar School until 13 and then moved away to Filey before ending up down south, where I’ve been ever since.

“The album is Americana based music and represents a milestone, it’s been the tenth release since 2011. We are often described as Dire straits meets JJ Cale meets Chris Rea.

“The last album Goldfever did particularly well and was well received in the USA.”

Trevor Turley, for Blues In Britain Magazine, said: “Richard’s down-to-earth Yorkshire tinged humour shines, and he is very open and honest.”

“Overall this is an essential addition to the rather excellent album Goldfever - both are required to fully appreciate the creative talent on offer.

“The coffee table version really brings the songbook and its outstanding photography to life.”

Visit www.richardtownend.com.