Just back from a concert in the Brighton Dome, featuring Level 42 (jazz-funk), with The Mercury men as a 'new' and 'up and coming' trio, with vocals and acoustic guitars.

To tell the truth, we had only gone to see (and support) The Mercury Men, as we have a friendship connection, but Level 42 had passed me by, back in the 80s. Two such dissimilar acts would be hard to find!

I came away very impressed indeed with The Mercury Men, who put on a great show. I know they will do well and I wish them all the best. Their music was fresh, lively and very listenable. They also 'worked' the audience brilliantly, who were mostly, let's face it, there to hear Level 42 (music that is a universe apart).

I was surprised to have come away also with a great admiration for the sheer noise, confidence and musicianship of the Level 42 line-up. Mark King's guitar is some machine. Perhaps he shouldn't be so 'understated'!

Off to buy another set of ear protectors . . . . .

[Why not take a look at www.alternativevet.org while you're here?]