BBC FAVOURITE Paddy Milner will tomorrow (Jan 8) kick off the New Year at the Brontë Blues Club.

Paddy is recognised as one of the leading blues piano players in the world, as well as a superb songwriter and a distinctive singer.

He was voted best keyboard player in the 2012 British Blues Awards and best blues piano player in Europe by Blues Access USA.

As a kid growing up in rural Dorset. Paddy began his career playing in local pubs from a very young age, absorbing blues and boogie, but also exploring jazz, classical music and folk.

He learned from the masters, including duetting with the legendary Jonnie Johnson and learning from Jon Cleary in New Orleans.

Paddy burst on to the blues scene in his own right in 2000 at the age of 19 with his debut album 21st Century Boogie.

His latest album, The Curious Case of Paddy Milner, showcases a more raw, roots-driven sound with catchy hooks.

Paddy has worked with artists as diverse as Joss Stone, McFly, Phil Manzanera, David Gilmour, Boy George and Rumer.

He has also supported BB King, Joe Cocker, P!nk and John Mayall, and played venues as big as London’s 02 Arena.

At the Brontë Blues Club’s more intimate venue, Laycock Village Hall, he will perform solo.

Club spokesman Maggie Marsden said: “Paddy’s music will be full of energy with New Orleans influences alongside more contemporary songwriting.

“Expect a mesmerising display of piano virtuosity, some tender moments and lots of fun.”

House band BBC5 will provide support. Doors open at 7.30pm. Visit bronteblues.com or the Turkey Inn, Goose Eye, to buy tickets.