Leicester-born singer/song writer Jersey Budd is back in the limelight after making headlines for all of the right reasons following the release of his debut studio album ‘Wonderlands’ in 2008, which received critical acclaim.

The last time Soar Magazine spoke to the talented musician, he was in the process of writing material for his eagerly-awaited follow-up. However, one year on, and several appearances at Leicester City‘s King Power Stadium later, Jersey is back in the studio, back performing live and back in the spotlight as the release date for his second offering draws closer.

It signals a new dawn for Budd, who admits that the album – whilst keeping true to the sounds he made his own on his debut record – takes his music back to it’s most raw.

“Over the past few months, I have been demoing the second album and working with various producers to find the right one to work with. We’ll start to record the album later in the year, and we’re hoping that we can release it at the beginning of next year.

“The album will be different to Wonderlands and I could tell that from the moment I started writing it, as I had more influences coming through. We have stripped it all back. The first album was very heavy with strings, but this album has more of a raw rock and roll feel. There will be the sound of dirty guitars and it’s the kind of sound I want; keep the solos in, keep the choruses and keep the melodies – but take away some of the soft beauty of the strings.”

As Jersey talks of working on his new album, he generates an air of excitement. It’s the voice of a man who truly loves music and is happiest when he is recording and performing.

Things are about to get busy for Budd. In the weeks leading up to recording his next album, the singer, who grew up in Countesthorpe, has released a charity single with some of his heroes, whilst also preparing for a return to the stage.

In recent weeks, Jersey’s cover of the classic ‘When You’re Smiling’,made famous by Louis Armstrong and an anthem of his beloved Leicester City Football Club, has finally been released. Jersey was joined by some of City’s stars who recorded vocals for the track, which will now be sold to raise money for charity.

“We actually recorded the track back when City reached the play-offs with Nigel Pearson as manager. When the lads came in, it was a surreal moment. I’ve met the Gallaghers and Paul Weller – my music icons, but to meet my football icons was strange. Alan Birchenall was also there, and I felt I had to get them motivated to do it all. However, they all got it and were great. I still have the pictures of the day on my wall. Paul Gallagher, Richie Wellens and Steve Howard were all fantastic.

“I’m delighted it’s been released. It’s been a long time coming, but the main thing is that people buy it and help raise as much money as possible for some great local charities. The money raised is going to ten different charities under a banner called ‘One In A Million’. The initial reception has been great, with even Manchester United and Leeds fans letting me know that they like the song. I’m proud of it and I hope that people support it.”

Jersey’s musical passion comes to the fore when he’s on stage performing, and fans will soon be able to see him in his element once again. In what will be his first full gig for over two years, and with a new band in tow, Jersey will be playing material from his eagerly awaited second album, as well as tracks from ‘Wonderlands’, at Leicester’s Auditorium on Saturday October 22nd.

“You have no idea how much I am looking forward to this gig. Most of it will be new; a new band, new songs. I’m excited to finally be playing my new stuff, which feels like a natural evolution from my first album. It’s going to be a cracking gig and I want everybody to be there in what will be an intimate surrounding.

“Maybe I’ll get on the phone to Paul Gallagher and see if he’s available to come and belt out ‘When You’re Smiling’ at the end of the night with me!”

It’s quite easy to believe that Jersey’s return to the stage in Leicester next month could be the start of something very special for one of the city’s most talented performers.

Tickets for Jersey Budd’s one-off gig at the Auditorium on Saturday October 22nd can be purchased now, priced at £8, and are available by clicking here.

Fans can also follow Jersey on Twitter, by searching for @jerseybudd.