Bass guitarist Jeff Brown has played alongside some of the world’s most legendary rock stars, but has returned to his roots for the launch of his first solo album.

The Stratford-born musician launched 23 Years with a free gig at Canning Town’s The Bridgehouse II, a venue that seemed to be a perfect fit.

“When I was growing up I used to go to the original Bridgehouse, so when I heard they were interested, I agreed,” the 55-year-old said.

“It’s like coming back to where I started.”

His music career has seen him tour the world, most notably as lead vocalist of glam rock band Sweet, and has written and performed on around 20 albums.

But his solo album may never have been created had he not been overheard playing some of his original material in a recording studio.

“I was asked if I wanted to record my own album,” said Jeff.

“It took a while to find a producer for it but it’s had positive early reviews, which is good.

“There’s a lot of rock on there, as well as a couple of powerful ballads.”

Jeff, who now lives in Hertfordshire, said that there was inevitably going to be some comparison between his solo and band material, given that he spent 16 years as part of Sweet.

Yesterday’s launch show allowed fans that had followed him since the 1970s to relive some of his hits as well as be introduced to the new album and hear cover versions.

Despite being a veteran of the rock music scene, Jeff is showing no signs of slowing down.

“I’m hoping to get a band together and go on the road next year,” he said.

“I haven’t done a world tour in a few years, so that would be nice.

“I’m also playing a show at the Fiddler’s Elbow in Camden on Wednesday, December 23.”

For more on Jeff’s music, visit jeffbrownrocks.com