American blues singer and guitarist Adrian Byron Burns has built up a phenomenal reputation around Europe since he settled here in the Seventies.

With a voice and repertoire that transcend genres, he could easily satisfy with a night of classic blues. He also puts his stamp on a range of quality rock, soul and pop songs.

The pure power of his voice provided one highlight towards the end of the evening, with the guitars put to one side for a capella version of I Heard It Through The Grapevine performed complete with bassline and human beatbox.

As well as this Bobby McFerrin-style showcase, Burns' voice offered a range from rich baritone growl to falsetto soul scream, heard on several blues perennials such as Key To The Highway and Come On In My Kitchen.

Bob Marley, Neil Young, Little Feat and Paul Simon songs featured diverse guitar skills. Burns' Hendrix covers communicated the passion of the originals better than some noisier tributes.

The varied bill included a jazz interlude with So What gliding into Night In Tunisia.

Unfortunately, there wasn't enough time to hear more of Burns' original compositions, though Xenophobia Blues gave a flavour of his lyrical abilities.

This consummate musician has honed his uncompromising act over several decades, displaying more talent than some performers who unaccountably fill stadia. It was all the more powerful for being available in such an intimate venue.