The first time we met Charlie Tomlin he was dwarfed by the guitar he was holding.
He stuck his tongue out and threw the devil sign before cranking out a decent rendition of Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit.
Fittingly, that introduction took place at the home of Marshall Amplification, when Charlie was just nine-years-old.
His confidence and ability have shot up since then, with Charlie becoming something of a staple on the live scene in and around Milton Keynes.
Sum 41 first switched him on to the world of punk rock, but he says that it was Nirvana's music that helped him learn to play, and they remain a favourite act.
“I love everything about them; the way the songs sound, and the riffs and drum beats, and his voice was awesome.”
Charlie turns 12-years-old next week, and while the guitar-great-in-the-making will be finding time to indulge in a slice or two of birthday cake, he has also decided to mark the event by plugging in to his trusty Marshall to play a gig – from his driveway!
“I wanted to perform and host an event to raise money for the NHS. I've been missing gigging, so it seemed like the perfect time to do it on my birthday,” he told Total MK.
But what about those neighbours who might not be used to the raucous rock that will be coming their way?
“I am excited to let them listen and I have pre-warned some of the street!”
> Charlie will be performing songs from his favourite bands including Linkin Park, Deftones, Nirvana and Rage Against the Machine at 3pm on Sunday, May 17.
You can watch and donate via his Facebook page; Charlie Tomlin Guitar.
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