PAUL WELLER King George's Hall,Blackburn OPENING the show with the brilliant Into Tomorrow, Paul Weller set about proving to any doubters in the packed hall that the Modfather is as strong as ever.

With former Mother Earth guitarist Matt Deighton looking at ease in the role vacated by Ocean Colour Scene's Steve Craddock, Weller's new-look band has the solid quality which has become expected. Blasting out the best from his four solo albums, it was faintly ironic that the best song of the evening, Peacock Suit, was taken from his weakest and latest offering Heavy Soul.

Highlights ranged from the mighty Sunflower and Holy Man to the more mellow moments of Suzie's Room and the closing track Broken Stones. Despite recently turning 40 birthday, Weller's enthusiasm remains untarnished. His passionate and often aggressive guitar playing is no less powerful than during his days with The Jam.

Alas, tonight there was no trace of what for many was his finest era. The clouds of time may be gathering against Paul Weller but the music is as good as ever.

CLIVE LAWRENCE

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