A POWERFUL night of groovy blues and soulful gospel will light up a stage as a popular music night makes its triumphant return.

Upstairs at the Red Lion is back and better than ever, with a concert exploring the space and harmony between two distinct genres.

Saints and Sinners is a blues and gospel show, featuring The Spikedrivers, Fran McGilivray and Mike Burke.

The Spikedrivers remain one of the most innovative and exciting bands around, combining gutsy slide guitar, infectious grooves and distinctive vocals.

Paul Munson, of Upstairs at the Red Lion, said: “Blues and gospel, despite their obvious differences, have always been linked.

“So many blues musicians we know and love spent their early years singing in church.

“We would never have had the presence, power and passion of Son House, Muddy Waters or Ma Rainy ‘mother of the blues’ without these foundations.”

The concert will encompass five voices, a multitude of guitars, percussion and even homemade instruments, resulting in a whirlwind of soul, stories and soundscapes.

Paul added: “Join us for a foot-stomping, gut-wrenching, heart-soaring journey from the cross to the crossroads and all points in between.

“The Spikedrivers are always popular at the Red Lion and we are looking forward to a really special show. We expect a full house.”

The concert takes place on Saturday, October 13.

Tickets for the show, held at the Red Lion, in South Street, Manningtree, cost £12 and can be booked by visiting redlionmanningtree.co.uk and wegottickets.com.

Doors open at 8pm.

Upstairs at the Red Lion will continue on Saturday, November 17, with acclaimed singer-songwriter Sean Taylor taking to the stage.

Taylor, who has played Glastonbury four times, will visit the pub as one of only five stops in the UK as part of his European tour.

He will be supported by rising talent Hollie Rogers.