Luke Philbrick is a man in demand. His diary is packed for the summer, with upcoming gigs at the Mitcheldean Folk Festival and Upton Blues Festival the highlight of a busy July schedule.

The Gloucester-based blues musician has built up a strong following here in his home county, where he regularly plays at some of Gloucestershire’s leading music festivals and popular music venues. “Yes, I’m in for quite a manic summer, it’s what I love doing so I’m really looking forward to it,” Luke said. He added: “Playing at the Upton Blues Festival is always fun. The crowds are good, everyone is there to have a good time. Mitcheldean is another great festival. It’s nice to be invited back. I’ve only been playing for a few years so it’s all good experience.”

Luke is heavily influenced by traditional blues and folk music. His powerful vocals and blues styled guitar playing combine to create a powerful musical fusion. Three years ago he released his debut album ‘The Kitchen Sessions’ and plans are in place for a second album to be released in the near future. Luke continued: “I love writing songs, for me music is all about communicating how you feel. I’ve always listened to blues music.

“A lot of the earliest recorded music was blues music. It’s hard to put my finger on why I like it, it’s just always been there. I like the honesty of it I suppose. Gospel music is similar, the lyrics are honest and powerful, the artists properly believe in what they’re singing, that’s what resonates with me.”