AN award-winning singer-songwriter who has recently founded his own record label will be bringing his music to Kendal next week.

Blair Dunlop, whose 2012 debut album 'Bright & Blossom' contributed to his winning the BBC Radio 2 Horizon Award in 2013, will play the Brewery Arts Centre with his band on April 28.

He will play songs from his acclaimed debut and 2014's follow-up 'House of Jacks', as well as previewing songs from his forthcoming third effort, 'Gilded', due out in May 6 this year.

Speaking of his music, Blair said: "I started out in folk and playing in folk clubs. I've always enjoyed the writing style of folk music and the storytelling aspect to it.

"However, the new record doesn't have a traditional folk sound. There is still a lot of that storytelling element, however the music is more contemporary.

"There was no conscious decision to move away from folk, but my music just happens to sound less traditional at the moment. Folk is still in my DNA."

This folk DNA comes from a prestigious place. Blair's father is Ashley Hutchings - founder member of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span and The Albion Band.

Blair's musical background meant it was only natural for him to pursue a music career, and his award-winning debut was released on Rooksmere Records when he was 20 years old.

His second album was also put out by Rooksmere, however since then Blair has decided to strike out on his own and found his own label.

Gilded Wings records, based out of London, will be the home of Blair's third album, as well as other artists the singer-songwriter selects for his roster.

"More and more people are successfully self-releasing in this technological age," said Blair. "There's not as much need to a traditional label as there once was.

"It's so nice to be able to retain creative integrity and not be answerable to anyone. It feels like the right thing for me to do at the moment."

Among the songwriting and label-running, Blair is maintaining a busy touring schedule, with gigs and festivals throughout the summer.

This year's touring will see the band play all over the UK before heading to Australia . After that Blair plans to start work on his next release.

Tickets for the Kendal show are still available from the Brewery website.