THERE is stadium rock and there is getting up close and intimate with acoustic performers.

This weekend local music lovers can do the latter with Ian Parker who is coming to the Marr’s Bar to play bluesy Americana in its purest form.

For the past 10 years Parker has established himself throughout Europe and parts of the US as one of the leading roots songwriters and performers of his generation.

With four albums and two live DVDs released through Ruf Records, he has amassed a respectable back catalogue and an expansive following to match.

Parker has predominantly toured with a four-piece band, delivering rootsie rock and hi-octane blues with the help of an amplifier.

But lately he has been focusing on acoustic song-writing. The Up Close and Intimate tour, which started back in January, has given him a chance to play in a stripped down manner.

“I’ve really enjoyed playing in this format and in some ways it’s sad that this will be the last tour,” said Parker.

“It has been an interesting artistic challenge to perform in such a simplified and exposed way.

“But the Marr’s Bar is one of my favourite venues and Worcester feels like home to me, so I’m looking forward to my return.”

Parker will be at the Marr’s Bar on Sunday, October 18, accompanied by Steve Amadeo and Chris Eaton.

Amadeo studied jazz on double bass at Birmingham Conservatoire, while guitarist Eaton has been working with Parker since they met at the Beauvais Festival in France back in 2001.

Tickets to see the Ian Parker Trio are £8 in advance and £10 on the door.

See ianparkermusic.com for more information.