MUSIC-LOVERS have plenty to look forward to today as an internationally famous soul and pop band come to Colchester.

Simply Red, fronted by the ever-recognisable Mick Hucknall, will play an open-air show in Castle Park today as part of their UK tour.

During the gig on Saturday, August 6 the legendary musical outfit will play hits including the likes of Holding Back The Years and If You Don’t Know Me By Now.

Tracks from the two-time Brit Award-winning band’s classic album Stars, which was the best-selling LP for two years running in the UK and Europe, will also get an airing.

The group has been a huge success since forming in 1985.

Simply Red have achieved five number one albums, secured two US Billboard chart-toppers, and garnered billions of views on Youtube.

The band’s frontman, Mick Hucknall, is best know for his outstanding vocals, not to mention his iconic long red hair.

READ MORE: Here's what you need to know when visiting Simply Red today at Castle Park

Speaking about his unmistakable vocal sound Mick said: “I always want to push my voice a little harder, challenge it a little bit, give myself something to really sing to.

“It’s deepened a little bit, but I’ve kept the high end, so I can still hit those notes. Singing is pure pleasure to me.”

Also set to join the Manchester outfit as a support act is Gabrielle, one of Britain's most successful female singer-songwriters.

The star, who has sold more than five million records, boasts two Brit Awards and one of the best pop soundtracks of all time with Out Of Reach, recorded for Bridget Jones's Diary in 2001.

Tickets for the show start at £42 with the doors opening at 4pm.

For more information, visit colchester-events.co.uk/event/simplyred