Juan Zelada has one of those names that sounds destined for stardom. Born in Madrid but living and working in England, the Spaniard has, in his short career, already written a few favourable headlines for himself.

After completing his Diploma at LIPA (Liverpool institute for Performing Arts), Paul McCartney's two-word summary of Zelada's thesis (an album) was as uncomplicated as it was encouraging: "Smashing CD", he is reported to have told the graduate.

However, any observer of book or film straplines will know that such sound bites are themselves rarely any guarantee of quality. Helpfully, the singer-songwriter didn't rest on his laurels and, in 2007, he moved to London to hone his craft to immerse himself in the British culture he loves. He also set about recording and releasing his debut EP, earning a slot supporting Amy Winehouse.

The 2010 EP 'The Story of Stuff' was followed by his 2011 debut single 'Breakfast in Spitalfields' which BBC Radio 2 made their Record of the Week. His next single, 'The Blues Remain', is another slice of soulful folk pop with a Mediterranean accent and is released at the end of the month. It is also the Radio 2 Record of the Week (this week, in fact).

With an encouraging nod from Sir Paul McCartney and enthusiastic repeated slaps on the back from Radio 2, Juan Zelada's career is going in one direction only and, in support of the new single, Zelada and his band are continuing to tour intimate UK venues.

Juan Zelada's autumn dates continue at the Jericho Tavern on 9th October, moving onto a few London shows (including Spitalfields!), Belfast, Liverpool, Guildford, York, Norwich, Manchester, Newcastle and any more, before the final gig (announced so far) at the Slade Rooms in Wolverhampton on 8th December 2011.

We have tickets for most dates available now, priced generally under a tenner.