Songwriter Rik's debut solo album

Rik Jones, from Newtown, wrote the 10 tracks on What’s On The Moon? and recorded all the instruments at his home studio.

The album, whose unusual title refers to British astronaut Major Tim Peake going to the International Space Station, represents around a year of writing for Rik and also features the musical talents of Stephen McNally from band BBMak, who initially gave Rik vocal lessons.

Rik is currently riding the crest of a wave after making a dream appearance in front of thousands of music fans at the Echo Arena in Liverpool at a concert celebrating The Jam, and hopes the extra interest in his music will now extend to the album.

Rik, 27, said: “My Facebook has gone through the roof with comments and likes since I played there, it’s gone mad.

“I ended up playing a couple of songs on my own. At first I was a bit disappointed because I wanted to play alongside Bruce Foxton but I think it’s actually worked better. Not many people from Wigan can say they have played the Echo Arena.

“I like the songs to have different meanings and I want them to be open to interpretation.

“I also like telling stories in my songs, so there’s one called Mister Mirror about people who think they know everything and another about people who live beyond their means.”

The album features Rik on vocals, guitars, bass and drums with keyboards added to a couple of the tracks.

The songs draw on a diverse group of influences including The Jam, The Stone Roses, Oasis and the Stereophonics.

What’s On The Moon? by Rik Jones is available now from iTunes priced £7.90.

To order copies or find out more visit https://rikjones.bandcamp.com.I like