Arkansas folk musician Brian Martin is returning to That Guy’s Coffee Listening Room on Saturday, November 3, in historic downtown Paris.

Martin, who began his professional career in 2004, has gained an ever-growing fan base as well as a critical recognition.  In 2004 he was a finalist in the Emerging Artist Competition at the Arkansas Blues & Heritage Festival.  Then in 2006 Martin was tapped by LAMA (Lower Arkansas Music Award) for Most Unique Performer of the year.

Appearing with blues musicians from around the world, Martin was invited to perform in the prestigious International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee in both 2006 and 2007.  Most recently, Martin took 2nd place in the 2008 Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase.

After his successful solo career, Martin teamed up with banjo player Joe Sundell and upright bassist Melissa Carpenter to form the jug band Sad Daddy in 2010.  The “world class pickers/songwriters/singers” (CD Baby) toured extensively promoting their self-titled album.

In May 2011, Martin released his debut solo album No Rider.  The ten-track album features Martin’s vocals and his intricate acoustic guitar fingerpicking.  The occasional addition of percussion, harmonica, dobro, and pedal steel resulted in a stripped-down studio album that blends the styles of country blues, barrel-house boogie and indie folk.   In live performances, Martin delivers his down-home witty tales with a soulful, gritty voice that appeals to generations young and old.

This will be Martin’s second performance at That Guy’s Coffee Listening Room Concert Series. Located at 117 Clarksville, the doors to the venue open at 7:00 pm and music begins at 7:30.   Tickets for the event are $20 and are available online at thatguyscoffee.com.  For questions about the tickets, concert or venue, call Gerald at 903-272-9687.