The countdown to Abertillery Blues festival has begun and this week festival star and bluesman, MICK PINI took time out to answer questions poised by ANDY HOWELLS

LEGENDARY bluesman Mick Pini has been playing the blues for over five decades.

Recognised in the music industry for his distinctive guitar sound he has played alongside many greats including BB King and Chris Farlowe, and he was once described by Eric Clapton as the legitimate successor to Fleetwood Mac’s Peter Green.

You started playing guitar as a young boy back in 1960, what influenced you to become a musician?

The Blues nothing but the Blues

You play a lot of classic equipment including a 1954 Stratocaster and a Gibson 345 1967 Cherry Red Guitar. Do you have a favourite?

The Stratocaster is an all round guitar. It’s a special guitar.

Do you have an outstanding moment from your music career that you particularly cherish?

I remember meeting Luther Alison.A real bluesman.

You will shortly be playing the Abertillery Blues Festival, what can fans expect from your set?

I hope they enjoy the music I play .

Apart from live performances are there any other projects you are working on at this present time?

I have been working on new numbers songs. I’ve finished seven songs so far, andam working to finish another three newsongs ,which will be on my new website in the next few months.