Summer so far has lent itself well to the many outdoor, ‘festival-feel’ concerts, and a well-lit, Cardiff castle proved a spectacular setting for the Paul Weller road show.

An 8,000 capacity crowd had clearly taken full advantage of the capital city’s hospitality throughout the day, and anticipation was high.

The Changingman himself was on fine form, complimenting the venue and the weather, he established the banter that he is all too often accused of disregarding.

But it was the music these fans had come for, and he certainly didn’t disappoint. In a set that covered the old and the new, Weller touched on virtually all of his albums.

From the opener, Sunflower, Weller blazed through classics, Wake up the Nation, Friday Street, and Peacock Suit, (only breaking for a customary puff on his cigarette) before slowing things down with Wild Wood, and You Do Something to Me which raised a huge cheer.

While the concert was clearly a celebration of his solo years, My Ever Changing Moods from his Style Council years was always going to be a winner.

He’s now been at the forefront of the British music scene for nearly 40 years, and whilst not resting on his laurels, he knows what raises the greatest cheer, hence his finale?.... Town Called Malice, probably enough said.

Jackie Davies