THESE days, everyone wants to play with Jools Holland, but from his performance at Aldershot's Prince's hall, his own band proves more-than useful.
His distinctive brand of blues and boogie pulls no punches with its raw, vibrant energy, which had the audience jiving in the isles.
Opening the show is a fine acoustic set from Jools' world weary, yet witty guitarist Mark Flannigan, who produces some sweet, lilting blues setting things off at a gentle pace.
This formed a worthy contrast to his leader's good-time, uplifting set.
No matter how many times you see Jools, either on his nfluential and eclectic TV show, or live, it is hard not to be in awe of his ability.
With lightning pace, he prowls from one end of his piano to the other with an endearingly cavalier technique, which belies a lifetime of learning from the best.
His weighty orchestra included five saxophones , three trumpets and trombones , a moody bass-man, keyboard maestro, and fiery backing vocals from Sam Brown.
Opening up with his usual flamboyant style, he invited the audience to "get down and boogie," to which many responded after a few up-tempo numbers.
Though Jools will never win any awards for his vocals, they proved pleasant enough on infectious numbers such as Seventh Son (which he has previously duetted with Sting).
Rarely allowing the tempo to slip, another highspot comes in the guise of the driving Autumn Leaves, with Sam Brown linking well with Jools for the vocals.
One of the many highlights came when Jools exchanged his lovely grand piano for a harpsichord for a frenetic rendition of the cult 60s theme to the Patrick McGoohan spy series, Danger Man.
Remaining animated throughout, Jools intermittently wanders from his trusty ivories to conduct his sizeable orchestra and acknowledge the audience.
An extended run through the classic, I'm in the Mood for Dancing, gives the orchestra a good excuse to show off its considerable solo talents.
Taking the mood down a notc , Sam Brown is given a solo slot to display her strong soulful voice with the ballad, Valentine Moon.
This being an upbeat show, Jools closes events with not one, but three crowd-pleasing encores which draw proceedings to a close with class.
Neill Barston