HIS passion for music was born in Ipswich but it is fans on the other side of the globe who have been given the first listen of his latest CD.Kevin Hopper, a former Chantry High School student, is releasing his new mini-album, Saurus, in Japan before it becomes available across the world.

HIS passion for music was born in Ipswich but it is fans on the other side of the globe who have been given the first listen of his latest CD.

Kevin Hopper, a former Chantry High School student, is releasing his new mini-album, Saurus, in Japan before it becomes available across the world.

The Far Eastern release of the album came at the request of the Japanese company which uses the Afterhours label and includes extra tracks to be sold as a full-length album.

It will soon be released in the US before reaching Europe.

Kevin is a self-taught musician who plays classical and electric bass guitar, keyboard and musical saw.

The 40-year-old grew up in Ipswich, where his parents Peter and Bobbie still live. He helped form cult group, Stump, who played to audiences throughout Britain and Europe for many years.

He now lives in London with his partner, Emma, and their children three-year-old Constance and baby Nicholas.

Kevin works full-time as a carer of adults with learning difficulties but still finds time to handle a busy music career.

He is a regular member of London-based group, Ticklish, and guests for other bands and artists at concerts and on recordings.

One of his latest projects is the completion of a concept album, The Stinking Rose, a tribute to the health properties of garlic. It was made some time ago with poet Neil Rooney and singer Tara Newley, the daughter of Joan Collins and the late Anthony Newley

He has also recently moved into theatre and provides music for Zannie Frazer's Riptstop Productions.

Weblink: www.kevhopper.freeserve.co.uk