I caught up with Howard and special guest Duncan Shiek at the Barnsley, Civic, South yorkshire, last night and what can I say?

WOW!!

Exemplary as always!

Howard and Duncan complement each other and should definitely tour together again. Duncan has the voice to die for and his acoustic set was fabulous and enjoyed by everyone...including some inebriated soul on the front row who 'helped' along with an impromptu percussion of his own. Duncan was curteous and full of humour and Im glad to say that said sad figure was removed before Howard came out.

Howard and his real percussionist Johnathan Atkinson filled the tiny hall with songs from his new album and a smattering of hits. As Howard said it was hardly an acoustic gig but lapped up with gusto by all present.

The highlight for me...apart from meeting my (ordinary) hero and having a mug shot captured with him was a cover version of the Tears for Fears hit, 'Shout' with Duncan Shiek...absoluley stunning even if the guys did feel they were only just getting into the vibe of playing it.

Another memorable night with mr H. Jones esquire and I hope they continue. Top stuff!!

My only gripe is that I spent my youth growing up in Barnsley and following Howard and when I left the town to live elsewhere he decides to gig there, for a second time!...lol.... The bugger!