David Gray @ Guild Hall, Preston

9:00am Wednesday 19th March 2008

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On a blustery March evening we were blown into the Guild Hall into the midst of a huge mix of people, all here to see one person, David Gray.

There were young indie types, silver surfers, cuddling couples, sons with mums, and even the odd teenager scattered through the large, slightly impersonal venue.

Definitely one to watch for the future, Beth Rowley, warmed up the eclectic mix of people with her new single Oh My Life and a few other folk songs which will most definitely be making it to the top of the charts this year.

An air of anticipation greeted Gray as he launched into Shine, from his 1993 debut album, and three songs in the crowd was treated to classic sing-alongs Babylon and Sail Away.

Then Gray shifted to his newer material with the bleak ballads From Here You Can Almost See The Sea and Slow Motion, as the backdrop of the stage turned into an ocean twinkling white lights.

Gray's 'Greatest Hits' tour did exactly what it says on the packet, with familar, almost nostalgic versions of This Year's Love and Please Forgive Me rousing people into a type of community singalong.

Gray was as enthusiastic as he was when he first shot to fame back in the late 90s and gave an effortless performance..