What to see and do this weekend: from Rod Stewart and Jools Holland's magnificent new swing album to...

Experience the freshest tunes, outstanding acts on stage, and awesome cinematic releases as recommended by our critics. Discover the top choices for music, stage plays, motion pictures, and comedy. Keep reading to learn about the best events to attend and enjoy this weekend.

This week's highlighted album is the standout release of the week. With its unique sound and captivating lyrics, it is a must-listen for music fans. Don't miss out on discovering this amazing record and adding it to your playlist. It's sure to become a favorite among your music collection. Check it out now and enjoy the fantastic music experience!

The musician Rod Stewart appeared on Jools Holland's show. Rod Stewart was a guest on the program hosted by Jools Holland.

Introducing Swing Fever! It's available for you to enjoy right now.

On stage, Rod Stewart never disappoints, but his recent albums haven't been as impressive. The Tears Of Hercules (2021), his latest release, was not well-received. One particular track called Kookooaramabama still haunts me with its lyrics: "Sex is cool, and sex is nice/Sex will leave you in paradise."

A strategy to steer clear of lyrics that may cause issues is by focusing on cover songs. Rod utilized this method successfully during the beginning of the 2000s. Presently, at the age of 79, he collaborated with Jools Holland, aged 66, to create an entire album of music from the swing era. The moment you listen to the album, you can sense its excellence.

Rod Stewart and Jools Holland are both diehard fans of model railways, and the songs on their latest album, Swing Fever, keep up a steady beat that's as unstoppable as locomotives roaring down the tracks.

The first song, known as Lullaby Of Broadway, is much older than Rod. It won an Academy Award for best original song way back in 1935. However, the song still maintains a lively tempo that keeps it feeling young. Instead of being a soothing lullaby, it's more like an energizing wakeup call. It doesn't take long before someone starts tap-dancing, possibly even Sir Rod himself.

The cover of the album doesn't give Jools's Rhythm & Blues Orchestra any recognition, but they still manage to put their own spin on the classic songs with great enthusiasm. Rod encourages the band to keep the rhythm going and they do not disappoint, maintaining their energy from start to finish.

Rod and Jools have a passion for model railroads, and the tracks resemble trains moving with an alluring beat. Occasionally, Rod takes a backseat, but the musical talent is exceptional, and his voice retains its smooth, rough quality.

Due to his immense love for music, he has acquired a flair for creating cover songs. However, his previous attempt at producing a swing album was not quite successful. He realized that the outcome leaned more towards Frank Sinatra's style rather than Louis Prima's.

The name Prima might not sound familiar, but it's likely that you recognize his style. He was the one who provided the vocals for Louie, the King of the Swingers, in the 1967 movie, The Jungle Book.

BBC2 viewers are aware that Jools likes to get crazy with the boogie-woogie piano, but not on this occasion. Instead, he advocates for simplicity and follows through with this belief.

The sole disappointment is the final song called Tennessee Waltz. Jools converts it into a different style and fails to capture its enchanting essence. However, their performance on Pennies From Heaven, Ain't Misbehavin', and Almost Like Being In Love is nearly flawless. Jools and his orchestra almost reach the summit of perfection.

There are two additional brand new products that have been made available recently.

"Life Loss: Managing It With MGMT"

MGMT has recently released Loss Of Life as their first independent album. This comes after producing four LPs with major label Columbia. The exciting part is that their new album reflects the melodious and cozy vibes from their debut album in 2008.

Andrew VanWyngarden, who sings and plays the guitar, along with Ben Goldwasser, who plays the keyboard, have changed their music style. They are now featuring more guitar and piano sounds while reducing the use of electronics. Their lyrics are also more focused on the experiences of those in middle age.

The music on Dancing In Babylon by Mother Nature pays homage to home life in a playful way. You can hear influences of Cyndi Lauper and Hall & Oates on the album, while also noticing elements of Queen's theatrical style in songs like Bubblegum Dog.

The game called Loss Of Life improves as you keep playing it. This implies that any rumors about MGMT's end are not true and are exaggerated.

Steve Hackett's Circus And Nightwhale Journey

As an important figure of Genesis during their successful period in the 1970s, Steve Hackett is well-versed in creating progressive rock records. This is evident in his latest project, a conceptual album, which is ambitious yet not overly self-gratifying.

The main character in the album, named Travla, is actually Hackett himself. One of the tracks describes his entrance into Genesis (Enter The Ring), while another one takes inspiration from his departure in 1977 (Get Me Out!).

The musical tracks are brief and powerful, showcasing Hackett's lively and determined musical abilities. The final piece, White Dove, features beautifully performed classical instrumentals.

AND TWO AMAZING CONCERTS

The British music awards ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, has already caused a stir. Raye, the soulful vocalist also known as Rachel Keen, has received an unprecedented seven nominations.

Raye, who has been nominated for the Brit Awards, possesses a distinct and undeniable charisma that sets her apart as a star.

In the field of music, Raye is considered a remarkable talent. She attended the Brit School but eventually left before completing her studies. Despite facing rejection from her record label, Polydor, she managed to secure a singing contract and decided to self-release her album, which surprisingly reached the second spot on the charts.

She has grown enough to fill up the enormous O2 Arena in London, yet remains small enough to perform at the intimate O2 Academy in Bristol.

Raye, a free-spirited artist with ties to Tooting, Yorkshire, Switzerland, and Ghana, is known for enjoying conversing with the audience so much that she frequently incurs penalties for exceeding her allotted time on stage.

Sometimes her work can be inconsistent, but she definitely possesses a special talent. Her personality is incredibly charming and her singing voice is absolutely amazing. She has the ability to begin a song with the same energy as Amy Winehouse and then end it with the same power as Whitney Houston.

We will be on tour until March 15th. Unfortunately, the majority of tickets have already been purchased, but there are waiting lists available.

In Concert Tonight! Don't Miss It!

Rick Astley is living his best life right now. The guy from Newton-le-Willows has a rare talent that allows him to walk away from fame and fortune. At 27, he decided to retire and focus on being a full-time dad. But, surprise surprise, he made a comeback at the age of 50 that continues to thrive even seven years later.

Rick Astley's work is average, however he manages to succeed because of three key attributes.

Walking onto the stage, he begins to sing "Together Forever" and the audience joins in immediately. When he finishes the song, he thanks the audience and jokes, "It can't get any better than this, when everyone sings along to the first song."

Although his content is average, he is able to succeed due to three exceptional qualities.

The primary element of his persona is his resonating voice, which comes across as welcoming and enveloping, much like a cozy blanket. Another notable trait is his diligence, as he never fails to deliver high-quality results even in the most strenuous of settings. His third forte is his affable nature, which exudes sincerity and charisma.

If there was an award for the Pop Star that is the most well-liked at the Brit Awards, then he would definitely be considered as a possible nominee.

Traveling until March 7th

BLOG POST Hello, and welcome back to our Show of the Week blog! This week, we are featuring the latest addition to our lineup, a thrilling drama series that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. We understand that you are always looking for fresh, exciting content to keep you entertained, and that is precisely what we strive to offer. This drama series delivers on all fronts, from its gripping storyline to its impressive cast and stunning production values. Without giving too much away, we can tell you that this series follows the lives of two individuals whose paths are intertwined in ways that they could never have imagined. As they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their respective lives, their destinies become increasingly intertwined, leading to a shocking conclusion that will leave you wanting more. If you are a fan of edge-of-your-seat drama that keeps you guessing until the very end, then this series is the one for you. With non-stop action, breathtaking visuals, and a cast of talented actors who bring their A-game to every scene, you are sure to be hooked from the very first episode. So, what are you waiting for? Tune in to our Show of the Week and experience the thrill of this must-see drama series. Trust us; you won't be disappointed!

The reason behind the great success of the re-emergence of Taylor Mac's play lies in the outstanding performance of Hollywood star Felicity Huffman, who is making her debut on the UK stage as Paige, the head of a family that suffers from various conflicts. While the Desperate Housewives actress was dealing with her personal family issues in 2019, including serving a 14-day prison term after admitting her involvement in fraud related to her daughter's college admission exam.

Mac's comedic play blends together elements of a family conflict and a reflection of societal issues, while incorporating a noticeable amount of LGBTQ+ theatre.

Felicity Huffman is doing an amazing job as Paige, the unstable mother of a disorganized family, in Taylor Mac's gloomy comedy, which also happens to mark her first appearance on a UK stage.

Paige has a son named Isaac, who is a member of the US Marine forces. Isaac has returned from a battle but is shocked to find his family's house in a terrible state. The place looks like a battleground with clothes and magazines scattered all over the dirty floor. To make matters worse, his father Arnold has suffered a stroke and is dressed up as a clown, which adds to Isaac's distress.

Paige is no longer bound by a violent marriage and the duties of running a household thanks to Arnold's situation, and now she is belittling her spouse.

In simplified language: One of her supporters is her child Maxine, who is changing their name to Max (Thalia Dudek). The pronoun Max prefers to use is "hir," pronounced as "here."

However, when Paige and Isaac start to have a power struggle, his PTSD becomes apparent. Max's divided loyalties also put Paige's newfound control in jeopardy, causing the family to spiral out of control.

Huffman is amazing in her role as Paige, who is shown as being fragile and delicate. One of her best lines is when she calls out to Max and demands that he come explain his gender ambiguity to his brother.

Under the guidance of Steven Kunis, Mac explores topics such as identity, family dynamics and the influence of being a part of a group. However, the true highlight of the evening is when Ms Huffman takes the stage and shines.

If you're looking for something to do in London, consider checking out the Park Theatre. With the show running until March 16th, you'll have plenty of time to catch it. The performance has a runtime of 2 hours and 20 minutes.

"Four more dazzling performances" In this latest segment, we're featuring a quartet of other brilliant shows that have caught our eyes and left us thoroughly entertained. From gripping dramas to fun-filled comedies, these productions offer something for every taste and preference. So without further ado, let's dive in and discover what makes these shows so special. First up on our list is a touching drama that explores the complex relationship between a father and daughter. With superb acting and heartwarming storytelling, this poignant play is guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings and stay with you long after the curtains close. Next, we have a fast-paced comedy that will have you laughing from start to finish. Packed with hilarious one-liners and witty banter, this show is the perfect remedy for a dull day. Bring your friends and get ready to have some serious fun! Our third pick is an intense thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With clever twists and turns and a suspenseful plot, this gripping performance is not for the faint of heart. If you're a fan of crime dramas and action-packed thrillers, this one is a must-see. Last but not least, we have a whimsical musical that will dazzle your senses and leave you feeling uplifted. With catchy tunes and colorful staging, this delightful show is a feast for the eyes and ears. Bring the whole family and let the magic unfold before your eyes! That's it for our roundup of four other stunning shows. Whether you're in the mood for drama, comedy, suspense, or musical magic, there's something here for everyone. So why not treat yourself and catch one of these fantastic performances today? You'll be glad you did!

Octopus, my dear reader, is simply delightful! Penned by Dodie Smith, this masterpiece captivated audiences in 1938. In this particular rendition, Lindsay Duncan leads the cast with her impeccable portrayal of the assertive yet benevolent Dora. Alongside her is her husband Charles, played by none other than Malcolm Sinclair - his character exudes a charming and scholarly aura. The couple are joyfully commemorating their golden wedding anniversary, making for a truly heartwarming story.

When it comes to portraying commanding yet benevolent Dora in Dear Octopus, Lindsay Duncan hits her peak.

The family living together consists of multiple age groups such as grandparents, slim adult daughters with curly hair, and young kids. They are all enjoying each other's company by laughing, arguing, and reconciling.

The fact that servants and old-fashioned words like 'bally' and 'lawks' are used makes it obvious that the story is set in the past. Despite this, the characters are very relatable and genuine. Fenny (played by Bessie Carter) stands out in particular, as her love for her silly master Nicholas (played by Billy Howle) is known by everyone in the family but never spoken about.

In the aftermath of a past war and on the brink of a new one, this familial tale from England provides a sense of comfort. Nico Muhly's melodies are evocative, and Frankie Bradshaw's moving stage and wardrobe are impeccable.

The Lyttelton Theatre in London is currently showing a play until March 27th. The performance lasts for 2 hours and 45 minutes.

One Day Only

The musical performance Just For One Day at London’s Old Vic commemorating Live Aid is far from typical. It resembles a church service with Pentecostal flair, incorporating firsthand accounts from attendees and singing praise songs to the praised “Saint” Bob Geldof.

of the historic 1985 Live Aid concert. It is a tribute concert that stands out from the rest. Instead of simulating a live concert from the past, Just For One Day brings together a group of well-known musicians to perform their own interpretations of the songs that have been part of our musical memories since the mid-1980s. The result is an entertaining and unique musical experience that celebrates the enduring influence of the Live Aid concert and its significance in the world of music. So, if you're a fan of the music of the 80s and want to relive those memories with a fresh new perspective, be sure to catch the next Just For One Day concert near you!

This tribute doesn't feature any big-name stars, unlike the July 1985 performance at Wembley. However, it stands out due to the exceptional musical arrangements created by Matthew Brind. He has managed to breathe new life into popular songs that we all know too well.

It should not be overlooked just how amazing Sir Bob's accomplishment was in gathering millions of dollars for the starving population in Ethiopia.

Craige Els has a resemblance to Geldof and he portrays the character of an eccentric but likable uncle. His eyes have dark circles like the planet Saturn.

My most preferred persona would have to be Mrs Thatcher played by Julie Atherton. She completely fits the role of the grumpy, cynical character that the show requires - by refusing to pay the 15% VAT imposed on Live Aid’s fundraising, and assertively dancing to The Pretenders’ hit Stop Your Sobbing with a modern, hip-hop twist while wearing a traditional tweed skirt.

Although there are occasions when they become passionate about their mission, Just For One Day does not let that prevent them from completely defeating and eliminating any negativity, to ensure that Saint Bob and his team are remembered and honored once more.

The Old Vic in London will be showing a play for a total of 2 hours and 35 minutes until March 30th.

Danny Sapani's portrayal of Lear is possibly the most exceptional I have witnessed, despite Yael Farber's directing not entirely matching his grandeur.

Sapani is both powerful and alarming due to his volcanic nature, which can bring about catastrophic results. However, he also portrays an inner child who is frightened and confused, showcasing his versatility in a magnificent display that complements Shakespeare's poetic style. His voice is truly exceptional, capable of sending shivers down your spine with a mere whisper, or commanding attention from passing ships with its booming intensity.

Danny Sapani and Clarke Peters, taking on the roles of King Lear and the Fool, have impressed audiences with their stunning performances. These actors have garnered widespread acclaim for their portrayal of these legendary characters, breathing new life into them with their brilliant interpretations. Their incredible chemistry and acting skills have truly taken the stage by storm, captivating audiences with their every move. It's no wonder that audiences and critics alike are raving about their performances in King Lear. They truly embody the essence of these iconic roles.

People watching the play may ask themselves why the character Fool, played by Clarke Peters, seems to wander aimlessly like a ghost. Some may even think he is experiencing a psychotic episode. Meanwhile, Fra Fee's portrayal of Edmund shows his evil nature through his actions of smoking marijuana instead of emphasizing Shakespeare's playful language.

In the play, Gloria Obianyo shakes things up by playing Cordelia as a more rebellious daughter who talks back to her father and even flips off her sisters. This goes against the usual portrayal of Cordelia as a well-behaved character.

Alec Newman and Michael Gould play the roles of Kent and Gloucester respectively in a straightforward, uncomplicated and honest manner, which is quite refreshing.

I am unsure of Farber's reasoning behind having Gloucester push a piano to Dover as part of his suicide mission.

Regardless of the uncertainties surrounding her creation, there's one thing that can't be denied: Sapani's portrayal of the powerful and emotionally charged monarch is exceptional. It's highly recommended that you watch the show solely for his performance.

The Almeida Theatre in London is showcasing a play until March 30 that will last for three and a half hours.

Dorian Gray's Portrait

Sarah Snook, known for her role as Shiv Roy on the TV show Succession, is the solo performer in an adaptation of Oscar Wilde's novel. I was concerned at first, considering Snook is a woman and Dorian Gray is a male character, but she far surpasses any trendy male actor with chiseled features.

Sarah Snook's delightful character is the main factor that makes this solo show successful.

Snook wasn't at all confused or deceived by Wilde's dark, flamboyant, gothic horror book. Actually, she's hilarious, speedy, and entertaining, taking on the roles of 26 different characters - and it's her cheerful disposition that makes the show successful.

The narrative revolves around a character named Dorian who commissions a portrait of himself. His ultimate desire is to retain his youthful appearance forever while his portrait bears the brunt of aging. However, Dorian becomes engrossed in immoral behavior including indulging in vices and committing murder. Remarkably, his physical features continue to remain attractive while the painting exhibits signs of decay, similar to a decomposing self-portrait.

It's like watching a film. You have several displays and real-time updates with Snook's face zoomed in so much that you can observe the adhesive on her sideburns. Additionally, the camera personnel trail her behind the scenes.

I have a single issue with the last half hour, as it becomes quite tiring. It requires some editing or a break. Despite this, it is an impressive accomplishment for an evening, and Snook effectively transforms Wilde's vivid tale into a clear and vivid experience.

The show is currently being performed at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in London and will run until May 11th. It has a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Title: Evil Small Characters Certification: rated 15, duration of 1 hour and 40 minutes In this movie, we follow a group of friends who become haunted by mysterious letters. These letters are small and seemingly harmless, but as the friends receive more of them, they discover a sinister message hidden within. The letters start to threaten the group's safety and sanity, causing turmoil and paranoia among them. As the tension builds, the friends begin to suspect each other as the sender of the wicked little letters. With no one to turn to and nowhere to hide, they must face the terrifying truth behind the letters and confront their darkest secrets. Wicked Little Letters is a psychological horror movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a gripping storyline and excellent performances from the cast, it is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre.

The act of internet 'trolling', wherein rude individuals who remain anonymous spew hurtful language towards people on social media, is a terrible modern-day phenomenon. However, a new film from Britain reveals that anonymous insults have been around for a long time and the movie is quite amusing to watch.

The novel Wicked Little Letters transports readers back to Littlehampton during the 1920s, a time when poison-pen letters were prevalent. Despite the respectable appearance of these letters, with their neatly stamped and handwritten addresses, their contents were often malicious and anonymous.

At the top left, we have Timothy Spall, followed by Anjana Vasan, Malachi Kirby, Jessie Buckley, and Olivia Colman. They all star in Wicked Little Letters, a truly enjoyable production.

In this part of the blog, the messages are directed towards a woman named Miss Edith Swan, who has a strong religious belief but is not very enthusiastic about being single. However, her father, who is old but still controlling, takes pleasure in reading the juicy contents of the letters with fury.

Victoria, the mother of the speaker, is shocked and disgusted by the use of inappropriate language. This language would not be suitable for a family-friendly newspaper, but is unfortunately typical in films that have been rated for viewers aged 15 and above. The speaker then questions who was responsible for sending the offensive language their way.

The Swans are absolutely convinced that the prime suspect in the case is Rose Gooding (played by Jessie Buckley), the untamed Irish widow who lives next door and has had a fallout with Edith. Even the authorities seem certain about her culpability. The only dissenting voice is WPC Gladys Moss (portrayed by Anjana Vasan), but her viewpoints are not being taken into consideration simply because of her gender.

This piece of entertainment is not heavy and includes jokes that are enhanced by the use of explicit language. If it weren't for that, it might have been a similar story to one that Miss Marple would have been involved in. However, it's an enjoyable and mostly accurate story that becomes more complex as it progresses. Thea Sharrock, the director, elicits excellent performances from the outstanding British and Irish actors cast in the film.

There are four fantastic movies that are currently still being shown at the cinema. The first one to mention is the action-packed blockbuster that has wowed audiences with its amazing stunts and special effects. Next up is a heartwarming family film that has been praised for its wonderful storytelling and uplifting message. For those who love suspense-filled thrillers, there is a gripping movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. And finally, there is a critically acclaimed drama that has been hailed as a masterpiece by both audiences and reviewers alike. So if you're looking for some great entertainment, be sure to check out these fantastic films that are still playing at your local cinema.

Age rating: 15, the duration is 2 hours and 1 minute.

The movie Shoshana comes out in theaters at a very coincidental time.

Whilst Gaza is in turmoil in 2024, Michael Winterbottom's highly emotional historical film not only effectively illustrates the intricate involvement of the British in the formation of the problematic Israel/Palestine situation, but also demonstrates how minimal progress has been made in the past 90 years.

Irina Starshenbaum is fantastic in her role as Shoshana, with Douglas Booth as a great support in the film.

Irina Starshenbaum, a Russian actress, delivers a fantastic performance as the fervent protagonist with a Zionist belief in the film. Furthermore, Douglas Booth, playing the British intelligence-officer who is her lover, and Harry Melling, portraying a cruel police officer, provide commendable support to her character.

This blog section contains information about a movie that is classified as suitable for audiences of 15 years or older, with a total running time of 1 hour and 47 minutes.

Despite being 81 years old, Ian McShane was previously recognized for his role as a cunning antiquities dealer on the TV show Lovejoy; however, he is now widely known for his portrayal as the proprietor of a hotel for assassins in the John Wick series. Given his age, it may seem unlikely that he could manage to hold down the leading role in a full-length motion picture.

The performance of Ian McShane as an older hitman in American Star is something worth watching.

In American Star, the protagonist takes on the role of a hitman on his last job and makes it look easy, as he travels to the Canary Islands.

As he waits for his intended subject to show up, he finds himself delightfully distracted. First, an alluring young lady (Nora Arnezeder) captures his attention, followed by her equally charming and more age-appropriate mother (Fanny Ardant). Additionally, he becomes captivated by an old, deteriorating ocean liner that has washed up on a beach in Fuerteventura. It's known as the American Star, just like him in some ways.

The film was well-crafted and might be viewed as too contemplative by those who prefer more conventional thrillers. However, McShane's performance makes it definitely worth watching.

Age rating: 15, duration: 2 hours and 7 minutes.

Mads Mikkelsen stars in The Promised Land as a former military captain, wishing to achieve both riches and approval by transforming the unproductive lands of 18th Century Jutland into farmland. This venture has been supported by the Danish monarch for quite some time.

In the movie titled The Promised Land, Mads Mikkelsen takes on the role of a captain who has recently retired from the army.

The following events are filled with tension, intensity and performed extremely well by a group of actors. The cast also features Amanda Collin in the role of the captain's housekeeper and Simon Bennebjerg portraying a cruel nobleman.

Tasting The World Around Us

Certificate: 12A. Runtime is 2 hours and 15 minutes.

To start off, let me offer you some earnest counsel. It is highly recommended that you have a meal prior to watching The Taste of Things. In the event that you neglect to do so, I can guarantee that within the first 15 minutes of Tran Anh Hung's delectable film, you will be restlessly biting your own fingers out of hunger.

Juliette Binoche and Benoît Magime star in a movie that's bound to make you hungry called The Taste Of Things.

This blog post is about Dodin Bouffant, a chef who has a deep admiration for classic French cuisine, French cinema, and beautiful French women who are past their prime. He absolutely adores sharing an extravagant eight-course lunch with his pals, but his heart belongs to Eugénie, his trusted assistant in the kitchen and a stunning woman. Even though they have worked together for two decades and shared intimate moments on occasion, Bouffant can't convince Eugénie to tie the knot with him. However, that may not be the case for much longer...

Although it lingers a bit longer than expected, the concluding astonishing scene will make you crave for more. Splendid.

Bill Bailey's unique brand of comedic genius is best epitomized by the term "Thoughtifier." In other words, he is a skilled purveyor of ideas and musings, utilizing his stand-up routine to provoke deep thought and contemplation. While his previous tours' titles, such as "Larks in Transit," "Limboland," and "Dandelion Mind," may have had a more fanciful tone, "Thoughtifier" truly encapsulates the essence of Bill Bailey's comedy.

Spending an evening with Bailey is a unique experience. While many comedians stick to the classic 'What's your name and where are you from?' line for audience interaction, Bailey prefers to spice things up by asking if there are any physicists present and having a hilarious conversation about nuclear fusion.

. Spending an evening with Bill Bailey is a unique experience, and fans of Strictly Come Dancing would have been amazed by his performance. Bill, often compared to Voldemort at a cheaper price, showcases an array of remarkable musical instruments.

If you're a fan of Strictly, you might have expected some funny stories about this person's surprise win in 2020. However, you would have been let down because they didn't really talk about it much. Instead, they showed off their impressive collection of unusual instruments and talked about deep topics like the Stoics and Johann Pachelbel's music. This definitely wasn't a typical comedy show like one by Peter Kay. You might have even left wanting to learn more about these things!

Starting off with some criticism towards politics, the author did acknowledge that the Government had accomplished something significant within the last 14 years. This particular achievement was passing a law acknowledging the emotional awareness of crustaceans. This inspired a song about a crab who experiences emotions and is unhappy with the current state of its life.

Bailey's show depended on the vague concepts of being English and his roots in the West Country. However, his immense creativity meant that he didn't require a structured storyline. The night consisted of oddities like a song about the disastrous first date of Henry VIII and Anne of Cleves, and a hymn titled I Hit a Grey Squirrel for Jesus.

Surpassing all of the musical mayhem, there were some amazing instrumental moments by Bailey. The audience was given Bluetooth devices in the shape of "rock balls" to try out the drum fill from Phil Collins' song "In the Air Tonight". The arrival of a laser harp made a dramatic appearance and Bailey put on white gloves and sunglasses to play it and take the performance to even greater heights. How about a Kraftwerk-style version of "Wheels On The Bus" in German?

Bailey showed off his musical brilliance and elder-like wisdom, taking control of the rainy night in Brighton with ease. Well done!

The Brighton Centre is currently on a tour that will continue until March 11.