A POPULAR Kidderminster singer songwriter is preparing for his biggest ever hometown headline gig next month.

Ian Passey, who records and performs as the Humdrum Express, is set to play a special show at the Rose Theatre on Saturday, October 7.

Known for his fast-paced lyrical style, Ian mixes social commentary with familiar cultural references, surreal characters and subtle puns.

He said: “It is something I have been plotting for a few months, a one-off gig with the chance to expand on my usual format.

“It will be my last Kidderminster date for quite a while, and I would like to make it really special.

“The Rose Theatre obviously has great facilities, and I am looking forward to documenting the quirks of modern times on the theatre stage.”

It has been a highly productive couple of years for the Humdrum Express - with more than 30 national radio plays on BBC 6music, the release of last year’s album, the Day My Career Died, followed by the recent Lookalike Bond EP.

Ian said: “I am planning to put out a new single - and video - in November, and will be airing the song for the first time on the night.

“Without giving too much away about the show, it will be much more than a standard gig with a few special guests and surprises.”

No stranger to the local music scene, Ian was previously a member of the bands Smedley, Jackpot and Swagger. During his time as the Humdrum Express, he has built up quite a following, gigging with the likes of Dr John Cooper Clarke, Bob Mould, Half Man Half Biscuit and the Wedding Present - but who else would Ian like to perform with in the future?

He said: “That’s a tricky question. Billy Childish would be nice as it would mean he was back playing live again.

“I did three dates with John Cooper Clarke around 2010 and I would love the opportunity again, although the venues he is packing out these days are much bigger than back then.

“I was due to support the Sleaford Mods a couple of years ago until the promoter in Leamington opted for a more local act instead. That would have been great, but it wasn’t to be.”

The Humdrum Express’ gig at the Rose Theatre will kick off at 7.30pm on October 7. The gig is due to finish at 9.30pm.

For tickets, call the Rose Theatre box office on 01562 743745 or visit rosetheatre.co.uk.