CELEBRATING the launch of his second album, talented singer-songwriter Adrian Nation is playing a series of gigs in Essex. The accomplished guitarist will perform at The Square in Harlow on Sunday March 29 and at the High Barn, Great Bardfield, on Friday

CELEBRATING the launch of his second album, talented singer-songwriter Adrian Nation is playing a series of gigs in Essex.

The accomplished guitarist will perform at The Square in Harlow on Sunday March 29 and at the High Barn, Great Bardfield, on Friday April 11.

"I'm looking forward to both gigs," said Adrian. "I'm an Essex boy so it's always nice to play to a home crowd.

"I've played at the High Barn a couple of times and it's a great venue. There's a good sound and always a lot of energy."

Adrian's second album, Fall or Fly, is released in store and on iTunes on April 6 and he will be performing many of the new tracks, as well as some old favourites and some covers.

"The album is a big step forward from the first album, which was self produced," said Adrian. "Well-known producer Chris West - who has worked with people such as Richard Ashcroft - as brought his expertise to the music.

"I've learnt so much by working with him about how to build a song and I think it's improved the way I play live. My performance is now more dynamic with a greater emphasis on the light and shade in the songs."

Influenced at an early age by the genius of Bob Dylan and the melodic fluidity of Mark Knopfler's haunting guitar, Adrian's teenage eyes and ears were truly opened when the late Isaac Guillory "played the guitar like I had never seen". Reflecting on this experience Adrian said: "Suddenly the acoustic guitar was a much bigger instrument than I ever thought it could be. My mind was set."

Adrian occasionally plays with a band, but at The Square and High Barn he will be performing how people know him best - just one man and his guitar.

Adrian's hectic touring schedule is testament to his popularity and quite exceptional guitar playing. The ceaseless cycle of touring and playing has continued unabated since the release of his first album Sowing Seeds and has established him as a stalwart of the festival, folk and acoustic scene.

Tickets for The Square are available on the door for �8. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets for The High Barn gig cost �10 and are available from www.high-barn.com