SINCE the release of her debut album Call Off The Search last autumn, Katie Melua has gone from being an unknown artist to the most successful artist in Britain this year.

Following on from her debut sell-out tour here earlier this year, festival appearances this summer in the UK and Ireland, and rave reviews from America, Katie Melua will be back on tour.

Her nearest show to Worcester will be at Birmingham's NIA Academy on Monday, October 18.

In addition to favourites from such as the singles Closest Thing To Crazy and Crawling Up A Hill, giggers can expect to hear songs from her second album, planned for release in 2005.

"When you are on the road with a band there is a bonding process that makes for a great personal atmosphere but which also leads to a musical tightness and energy which is reflected in the show that you do," said Katie.

"The American tour was fantastic because we were often playing to people who didn't know much about us, which is always a challenge.

"We've had a great time playing festivals in the UK and I'm really looking forward to the UK tour in October."