HOWARD Jones arrived in Bournemouth on Friday night to play not one but two albums in their entirety. Born in Southampton, his short journey along the coast has taken him via Wales, Canada, World tours, hit albums, singles and Live Aid, one of the most famous gigs of all time.

On a stripped back stage the first half of the show was dedicated to Dream Into Action. His voice sounded as good as ever and the crowd warmed to him as the songs transported them back to a time 30 years ago when life seemed a bit simpler. Looking more comfortable behind the keyboard, he did venture out a number of times to engage with a crowd that ranged in age from six to 60. It was the single Like To Get to Know You Well that got the crowd going and kept them singing along for the rest of the night.

After a short break it was time for Human Lib, a more upbeat album that in turn received a more spirited reaction from the crowd. What Is Love, Life In One Day and Pearl In The Shell all went down a storm with the final song arriving much too soon.

I will probably see over 100 bands this year and I will be very surprised if I experience a more uplifting end to a night as Howard played New Song. He seemed to be genuinely having a great time and the crowd disappeared into the night feeling exactly the same.