American bluesman Larry Garner steamed into Wimborne to record a new CD live on stage at the Tivoli.

Playing with long-time friend, British blues veteran Norman Beaker and his band, it was clear he had found some true musical soul-mates.

Garner may have paid his dues in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, while Beaker cut his gigging teeth in northern England; put them on stage together, though, and they are definitely drawing from the same musical roots.

With sensational backing from bass, drums, keyboards, sax and trumpets, the two guitarists stretched out on extended versions of such classics as Big Legged Woman, Raised in the Country and Champagne and Reefer.

Garner’s powerful vocals and expressive musicianship made him a natural front man while Beaker and his band played like a dream.

But then Mr Beaker has had a spot of practice playing with the best. Past stage mates have included everyone from Buddy Guy and BB King to Jack Bruce and Van Morrison Support act was The Smokin’ Benny Brown Band, last at the Tivoli when they supported Stephen Dale Petit and Mick Taylor.