HE SPENDS his days keeping the noise down in his part-time job as a librarian at Withington Library.
But when it comes to clocking off time, Aidan Smith loves nothing more than turning up the volume.
For the 28-year-old folk star has a string of critically acclaimed records behind him.
With three mini albums and a full album already under his belt, Aidan is now revelling in rave reviews following the recent release of his brand new album – Allotments.
In a review of his debut album, Fancy Barrell, a Guardian writer wrote: "Smith can blend jauntiness and tragedy with the best of northern entertainers".
Aidan – who lives on Burton Road in West Didsbury – is now juggling his time between stamping library books and signing album covers.
Aidan – who has worked at Withington Library for the last three years – said: "I love working in the library, it’s the best job I’ve ever had. I’ve done all the usual stuff, like working in offices, but I really enjoy the library and although I’m part time I often find myself working almost full time hours.
"I always find time for my music though, as it’s very important to me. But I like a bit of variety and if I didn’t have a job I’d be bored."
Aidan is on the same label as rising star West Didsbury-based folk star Liz Green. He was previously with Badly Drawn Boy’s Twisted Nerve label.
Over recent years Aidan has also spent time touring the UK and America, supporting bands such as Turin Brakes and I Am Kloot – as well as putting in appearances at some of Manchester’s most prestigious music festivals, including D-Percussion.
However, this is all fitted in around his rota at Withington Library. Aidan – who records all of his songs at home in West Didsbury – said: "The staff at the library are all very supportive of what I do, which is great. If I’ve got a gig lined up then they are all great and try to help me out by swapping shifts with me, or they give me time off."
As well as producing his own music, Aidan has also joined with a group of friends to put together a musical – called the Ballad of Club Vaudeville.
The music star has also revealed that there may be another musical in the pipeline – this time featuring his place of work.
Aidan said: "I haven’t done a library musical yet, so you never know, there could be one on the cards in the future!"
Aidan is also set to appear on a music compilation disc, which has been put together and will be released by Mojo music magazine, singing his own version of the Beatles song – Happiness is a Warm Gun.
To hear Aidan in action go to www.aidansmith.net
