NORWICH – The Chenango Blues Association will kick off its annual Summer Concert Series with a bang at 7 p.m. Thursday in West Park, as blue-eyed soul singer, songwriter and guitarist Eric Lindell makes his way back to Norwich.

Lindell – who first appeared at the Chenango Blues Fest in 2007 – has remained a favorite of festival organizers and fans over the years. Known for his soulful vocal delivery, original songwriting and a larger-than-life, foot-stomping, boogie-down live show, Lindell has been steadily gaining in popularity ever since his 2006 debut with Alligator Records, Change in the Weather. On Aug. 30, he’ll release his latest offering – West County Drifter – a combination of two independent albums which will mark his debut with M.C. Records.

“I’ve seen him many times and he’s a great singer, a great songwriter and a great guitar player,” said Chenango Blues Association Board President Eric Larsen. “Like all great artists, he has his own unique style. He’s just a tremendously talented guy and he’s as good as you’re going to get as a singer and songwriter.”

It’s Lindell’s attitude and personality – just as much as his musical talent – that sets him apart, added Larsen, who called him a “great guy” and “one of those you like to see have success come their way.”

As for Lindell, he’s simply excited to visit Norwich – and the many friends he’s made here – once again.

“I’ve been there a bunch of times, five or six I think, and I’m just excited about coming up and seeing everybody,” he said. “It’s been such a pleasure to work with the association and they’re just awesome people. We’ve had some killer shows up there and we’re excited.”

According to Lindell, music has always been an huge part of his life. And while it wasn’t until he hit the age of ten that he first picked up the guitar – a gift from his mother’s musician boyfriend – he said he’d always loved his mom’s music, which leaned heavily toward that one-of-a-kind, unmistakable Motown soul sound.