“This only happens here” announced Andy Fairweather Low as he played his homecoming concert at Cardiff’s New Theatre on Thursday evening, “I feel like I know you all, I probably do, there’s nothing more frightening, there’s nothing more appealing.”

It’s true, Andy’s audience, a packed house, were as keen to receive him as he was keen to play to them. Andy was clear from the offset he intended to give his audience a night to remember.

The first half saw The Low Riders “I am their singer, they are not my band” stated Andy, place the spotlight on not only Andy, but Paul Beavis (drums), Dave Bronze (Guitar / Double Bass) and Nick Pentelow (clarinet / saxophone) through a variety of styles including the upbeat rock of Dance On, the reggae of Natural Sinner and the pure jazz of Petit Fleur.

When the second half curtain came up, there was a surprise addition of a full brass section and keyboards from three further performers Andy referred to as The High Riders. This enabled the group to reap the full benefit for the original Amen Corner brass sound on 60s classics such as Bend Me, Shape Me, Hello Susie, High In The Sky and a superb bluesy version of Gin House Blues. The audience reaction was electric and intensified by The New Theatres intimate setting, everyone clearly having the time of their lives.

Don’t believe me? Well fear not, the whole event was recorded for posterity for a future DVD release. So if you weren't there, there’s still a chance to catch the ultimate Andy Fairweather Low and The Low Riders experience… watch this space!