HOWARD Jones has recently launched a CD entitled Piano Solos available on his website.

Its a collection of improvisations he has written especially for friends and family which he performs entirely on a grand piano. It's a very beautifully arranged album and something that I wouldn't have expected to hear from this 80s pop artist who is more commonly known for his synthesised music.

Classic FM are also bowled over by his latest work and will be interviewing him on Monday to discuss his art. But that wasn't why I was graciously invited to Howard's home in Maidenhead this week. It was to meet his friend Jed Hoile.

Jed is known around the High Wycombe area for his consistent work and support of the arts. He is one of the organisers involved in the very successful Winter Drum workshop, to which he invites very accomplished rhythmic artists from all over the world to attend. In the early 80s Jed was famously known as the mime artist who accompanied Howard on stage and on video wearing crazy outfits and make-up.

Friends have always been important to Howard, who admits that their constant support when he first began performing in pub venues around south Bucks helped him excel in his art.

It was one night in the late 70s when Jed became more important to Howard's work than just the roadie behind the scenes.

Howard says: "It was at the Fleur de Lis and my eye was caught by Jed's animated dancing in the corner, and I just couldn't stop watching him. It was fascinating and I thought he shouldn't be down there; he should be up here on stage."

Jed explains: "I couldn't just stand and listen, I've always been interested in mime and dance theatre. The philosophical content of Howard's songs at the time touched me and I'd just spontaneously danced along in support."

The two will be reunited on the Shepherds Bush Empire stage on Saturday, September 20, for a special 20th anniversary concert organised by Howard Jones.

"I wanted to mark the release of my first single," says Howard. "It's quite an ambitious show representing all the different parts of my career. I've even recreated the original rig we used to take around the pub, and that's when Jed will be joining me."

Also performing with Howard will be some more friends, namely Midge Ure and German artist Nena of 99 Red Balloons fame.

Advance tickets are £16.50 available from www.howardjones.com, ticketweb, Shepherds Bush Empire Box Office, Way Ahead or Stargreen. Booking fee may apply.