Martin Barre, Robin 2, Bilston - review and pictures

Despite it being a chilly Sunday evening, the Robin 2 was not far off full for the former Jethro Tull star and his talented band.

Martin may have turned 70, but the Kings Heath-born icon proved he is far from past it with an electric set, impressing with his stunning skills at every twist and turn.

Dressed in a black t-shirt and black jeans; his trademark soul patch in place, Martin looked great too - passionately giving his all as he and his band played songs young and old.

Martin’s band was led vocally by singer and guitarist Dan Crisp, whose voice and characteristics lent themselves perfectly to Tull, while also retaining individuality.

New to the tour, meanwhile, was young drummer Arun Graham, who seemed to pour his heart into the performance; grinning from ear to ear as he did so.

“Thank you so much,” beamed Martin.

“We’ve been away a long time - 10 weeks we’ve been on this tour.

“So it’s fitting we’d end up in the celestial city.”

Hits came thick and fast throughout the show, from 1975 album title track Minstrel In The Gallery, to ‘87 number Steel Monkey. The band also treated the crowd to a superb performance of Martin’s title track from 2015 album Back to Steel, with strong, gritty vocals and luscious heavy riffs.

“I was a snotty-nosed kid back in 1966, working for West Bromwich Council,” laughed Martin.

“It put me off ever wanting to work again, so I want to thank Wolverhampton Council - though they more than likely don’t know it.”

Hits such as 1968’s Song For Jeffrey, which was one of the first Tull songs Martin ever learned, followed, as well as lively performances of ‘74 track Sealion and ‘77 Songs From The Wood number Hunting Girl.

The band also played two Beatles covers, Eleanor Rigby and I Want You, which they performed with a gritty blues twist; in keeping with the remainder of the set. Though technically the band was great on both these numbers, I personally was a little underwhelmed by their choice of songs, which for me were a tad dull.

The group gave a great rendition of Skating Away On The Thin Ice Of A New Day, then left the stage before returning for an encore.

Finally then came the songs so many had been waiting to hear all evening - Teacher, Locomotive Breath and Aqualung. And they sounded tremendous. Martin particularly shone on the latter, with an awesome, hefty series of powerful riffs.

A great show, filled to the brim with talent.

My only complaint was the set choice, as in previous years this band’s shows have been phenomenal; rather than simply very good, as it was last night.

Still a very enjoyable show - and one I would, without doubt, jump at the chance to see again.