Andy Gray

andy.gray@KRNmedia.co.uk

HUGO, New York's soon-to-be famous piano rock songsmith stars at a free show in Medway next month.

During what will be his second tour of the UK, the 28-year-old Chicago-born writer/performer has graciously agreed to a one-night only appearance at The Barge in Gillingham on Wednesday, September 15.

As the UK is often referred to as the birthplace of piano-driven rock, nurturing the likes of Coldplay, Keane and Snow Patrol, Hugo's music has found a comfortable home on these shores.

But his strong, sensitive sound, dubbed Elvis Costello meets the Ben Folds Five by a growing army of favourable critics, is also bringing audiences to their feet in his native US.

From New York to Los Angeles, Hugo, otherwise known as Jon Hugo Ungar, has rocked many a salubrious, star-studied joint, including the Viper Room, CBGBs and Schubas.

He's also stormed bigger stages at festivals across the country, where fans feasted on his sweet melody and meaty rhythms.

The small screen is another of his happy mediums.

MTV's The Real World show has playlisted songs from Hugo's two EPs and full-length debut album, while a live performance on the highly rated FUSE programme helped spread the "H" word even further.

Still not convinced? Then check-out this review, painstakingly posted on the Adequacy.net website, which describes Hugo's smooth and stylish take on traditional rock and roll better than most.

"Ebullient piano, clockwork drums, fluid, gliding bass lines, and clever structuring with challenging, diverse rhythms.

"Hugo excites with bubbling energy and an incredibly tight sound that fills up the space of a band twice its size."

Hugo appears at The Barge in Layfield Road, Gillingham at 8pm on September 15.

For more information, call the pub on 01634 850485.