AN uplifting, emotion-evoking night of music and song, combined with laughter and the unscripted banter of two friends is how Russell Watson and Aled Jones describe their upcoming gig in Llandudno.

Aled and Russell are two of the world's greatest classical voices. They have both received countless prestigious awards, record-breaking sales and chart topping successes.

The pair are bringing their first joint UK and Ireland tour 'In Harmony,' to Venue Cymru in September.

The tour follows their album, of the same name, which came out last November.

The music is a cherry-picked collection of personal favourites, including well-loved hymns, arias, and popular songs, ranging from arrangements of Ave Maria to modern classics such as You Raise Me Up.

The two singers became firm friends more than 20 years ago, whilst moving in the same musical circles.

Their camaraderie and professional, mutual admiration, as well as their shared sense of fun makes for the perfect pairing.

Russell, who hails from Salford, and has been dubbed the "people's tenor," said: "We do play off each other on stage, we don't plan or script what we say, but you can guarantee there's always plenty of fun, plenty of banter and laughter.

He joked "In fact, I have told Aled, when we come to Llandudno, I'm on the lookout to buy him a nice snowman ornament or a snowman mug, or maybe a snow globe if I see one! He loves all that!"

In 1985, Aled's cover version of 'Walking in the Air' (a song from Channel 4's animated film The Snowman) reached No 5 in the UK charts in 1985, catapulting him to fame.

Born in Bangor, Aled, grew up on Anglesey. He said: "We have been friends for a long time, over 20 years

"Musically and as friends, we do have a great really great connection and our music just works together."

Russell said: "We have chosen a blend of our favourite songs, that are uplifting, some spiritual or evoke a variety of emotions.

"We want people to enjoy themselves, and to come out of our show saying they laughed, they cried.

"It's all about taking people on a journey, that takes them out of themselves."

For Russell, music has helped take him away from his own issues.

He has twice dealt with brain tumour surgery and endured radiation treatment.

"When they told me I'd never sing again, it was like a red rag to a bull for me, but I was determined," he said.

"I came out of it, and it has definitely added or, infused something into my music and my life.

"I don't think anyone goes through something like that without it affecting you deeply.

"An experience like that makes you aware of your mortality, heightens your awareness, and I don't take myself too seriously, anymore."

Aled, who lives in London, but grew up in Llandegfan, near Menai Bridge.

The former pupil of Ysgol David Hughes said: "I always enjoy being back in Wales and performing to a Welsh audience..

"I am very much looking forward to our show in Llandudno.

"Although I have lived in London for many years, Wales still feels a bit like coming home.

"I love to visit Anglesey, it has so many beautiful hidden beaches, and there are lots of places where you can walk and enjoy the peace and solitude."

Russell added: "We hope that people will come along to the show, although I am told the tickets are selling fast, so people will have to hurry to get tickets.

"We can promise you it will be a fantastic night to remember."

The show is on at 7.30pm, at Venue Cymru, on Tuesday, September 17.

Tickets are: £56.50, £41 and £31. VIP £120.50. (Ticket price includes a £1.50 administration fee.) The box office is : 01492 872000.