Ace guitarist Steve Hackett has played all over the world but Blackburn has escaped his attention --until now. He spoke to JOHN ANSON. . .

HE has travelled the world and played at major venues throughout his career -- but next Sunday will be a special day for Steve Hackett.

"I've never played Blackburn before," says the man who is widely regarded as one of the finest guitarists. "That's really surprising but I suppose the world is a pretty big place."

Steve Hackett will bring his band to King George's Hall as part of a tour promoting his 16th solo album To Watch the Storms.

"The album was out last year and we toured towards the end of the year, but now we're back on the road. This really is a different tour because the set will be a substantial change from what we were doing last time out."

As someone who is recognised as a virtuoso on the guitar it may surprise fans to know that Steve Hackett is currently spending several hours a day practising for the upcoming gigs.

"Well," he laughs, "there are a lot of chords in my stuff, you know. I like to rehearse on my own before I'll get together with the band.

"Playing live is all about your short-term memory and that needs refreshing. Some of the songs were only in my memory when I was writing them, so I need to learn them again."

Considering he's been on the road for over 25 years, is it worth all the effort?

"Playing live is something I really love doing," he said. "You just get such pleasure out of it, especially when the band kicks in with a really confident show.

"When that happens there's a bit of telepathy going on and everyone's contributing to the whole experience."

Like it or not, Steve Hackett will always be seen as a member of the classic Genesis line-up.

"In my musical life of 27 years I was in Genesis for six of them," he said.

"Genesis was hugely successful and we did some great stuff together and I've got some very happy memories but Genesis doesn't pay the bills. It's my own stuff that does that.

"Genesis gave me a platform to do other things, which was great."

But would he ever contemplate a reunion tour?

"Who knows? Maybe one day," he replies enigmatically.

Steve Hackett plays King George's Hall, Blackburn on Sunday, March 7. Details from the box office on 01254 582582.