iT WAS a first date of a UK tour, and Joe Brown looked suitably pleased at the reaction he received when he stepped on to the stage in trademark denim trainers and with that spiky hair intact.

He opened the show with his usual close harmonies number with members of his polished, loyal band.

Then Joe introduced his son Pete, an established record producer and musician in his own right.

It set the scene for a real celebration of high-quality playing and all-round good humour. But this is an extra-special tour because Joe has invited Dave Edmunds as playing guest.

It was worth the wait. Dave’s guitar playing was faultless and Joe shared a few numbers with him sporting a huge grin at his pal’s technique and soaring vocals.

Dave’s set of instrumentals from Classical Gas to a “bit of Mozart’’ were awesome in delivery just like his hit back catalogue including I Knew The Bride (When She Used To Rock and Roll); Girls Talk and I Hear You Knocking.

Joe, celebrating five decades at the top of his profession, still tackles so many different musical genres from Italian folk to Irish jigs and, of course, his hits such as Picture of You and Sea of Heartbreak.

Another surprise came in the form of Joe’s new single, the very funky Black Betty. There were rocking homages to Bob Dylan and Elvis, too.

He paid tribute to his old pal George Harrison with a song called That’s The Way It Is, and then for the finale it was time for the good ole’ ukulele.

This is the best value for money gig in town, and the standing ovation proved it.

PETER GRANT