Katie Melua is tipping former band mate Justin Sandercoe for success as he releases his first solo album, Small Town Eyes.

Justin, also known for his brand JustinGuitar, has taught thousands of budding guitarists all over the world as well as setting Melua on the path towards stardom; and now the protégée is tipping her former mentor to follow in her footsteps.

'Justin has the rare ability to touch someone with a song,' said Melua. 'His beautiful lyrics in (I) Turn To Tell (Her) are haunting and brought tears to my eyes. He plays the guitar with virtuosic ease and has a very bright future.'

Justin's album is released on January 18th under the label Ocean Reds Records.