FOR such a fine and revered songwriter, Steve Tilston remains surprisingly unknown outside the folk world.

Yet for 40 years he has weaved his magic and consistently impressed his peers.

At Forest Arts on Friday this singer, songwriter and guitarist showed once again that he is a master of his art.

Drawing on influences from jazz and blues to traditional folk, he delivered songs that were superbly crafted, beautifully sung and played with delicacy and precision.

His long-time classics like The Slipjigs and Reels sit perfectly alongside his latest material like The Reckoning and Doubting Thomas.

Along the way he tilts to guiding lights like the great Wizz Jones, the inimitable Davy Graham, Big Bill Broonzy and Bob Dylan.

Indeed he has just recorded the latter’s Love Minus Zero/No Limit for a tribute album due out in May when the Mighty Zim turns 70. This was a treat as an encore.

Tilston was also selling copies of his first novel, a historical seafaring adventure called All For Poor Jack.