AN ASPIRING teenage musician from Torfaen will have his fledging career nurtured by the owner of Pontypool music venue and record label.

Abersychan’s Tom Roynon-Blake, 17, released his debut EP ‘Good Lord I’m Losing My Mind’ on Dragonffli Records last month, which is owned by The Dragonffli’s Nick Byrne.

The singer-songwriter, who plays guitar, started working with the venue owner earlier this year, after playing a few shows at the Dragonffli.

“I tried playing with a few bands when I was younger, but I only starting writing and wanting to perform in the past three years,” said Tom.

“I played my first gig was just over a year ago, and in that time I’ve played about 50 or so shows.”

Tom re-discovered music while he was living in France with his family three years ago, but is planning to potentially carry on working with the Pontypool producer.

He played his first show at the Dragonffli in September last year, and the pair discussed the possibility of recording songs before entering the studio in April.

“I like to think that Tom is basically me 20 years ago,” said Mr Byrne, “although the only difference is that I was working with bands and he’s on his own.”

He added: “It’s harder than it’s ever been, but I think that since I do have a number of contacts, I can help steer Tom in the right direction.

“He’s had some good feedback, especially from the States, which is great to see. Since I’ve started working with Tom though, it’s given me a new direction – building up the venue and now the label at the same time.”

The pair hope that together, they can help improve the music scene in Torfaen.

"It's hard to find places in the area which are just solely for music, like the Dragonffli. The added benefit for me is that I can record here as well," said Tom.