“I’ve always been impressed by the musicianship on the Island,” said Chris Clarke, who, after performing on the Isle of Wight in the 1980s, will make his way across the Solent once again to showcase songs from his upcoming debut solo album.

Speaking to the County Press, Chris told us about his past, having performed with local musicians including Platform One director, Dave Pontin, and drummer, Rupert Brown.

This October, Chris will release Another Time, under his nom de plume, Electric Hero.

The album, which Chris described as “pre-punk,” is inspired by Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe and Dr Feelgood.

Looking back 40 years, Chris performed 'all over the Island' throughout 'most of the 1980s' with his bands, Figurehead and Hallelujah Blue.

While gigging, Chris would take to the stage alongside Rupert Brown, a drummer who has performed for Cher and Annie Lennox.

On Saturday, September 28, Newport’s AAA Records will host an instore event with Electric Hero, with Chris promising ‘pre-release exclusive’ copies of his album.

The next day, Chris will perform a longer show at Strings Bar and Venue in Newport, with support from local singer, John Wroath.

Chris revealed that his brother used to be in the band Sporting Life alongside John.

Keeping it in the family, Chris' nephew and former Platform One student, Elliott, is the drummer on Another Time.

Chris’s list of performances extends far beyond the Island, having played bass for Americana band, Danny and the Champions of the World, touring around the world.

Before ‘The Champs,’ Chris was with British country rock band, The Rockingbirds.

It was with them that Chris played on ‘bigger stages’ to massive audiences.

“In the early 90s we played Glastonbury,” said Chris.

“We never got to the Pyramid Stage, unfortunately!”

When he wasn’t on stage, Chris was in the studio, working with some of his heroes, including folk singer Martin Stephenson.

“To get to do an album with Martin was pretty special,” Chris said.

“I used to cover his songs and I was a big fan.

“Moving to London was a great thing. I got to play with loads of people,” with Chris naming Prefab Sprout drummer, Neil Conti, as another artist he was lucky enough to work with.

Chris shared his excitement at returning to the Isle of Wight, saying he has been keeping a 'close eye' on the Island music scene.