Show of Hands at Pontardawe

Could be trouble here, I thought, Show of Hands playing in Wales on St Georges Day, in Kim Howells' constituency! Sure enough Steve didn't hold back and sang 'Roots', naming Mr Howells as the minister guilty of making the infamous derogatory remark about Somerset folk singers. Cheers to Steve from me, especially now that I am one, sort of! The locals loved the song though, it received a huge round of applause. 'Country Life' and 'Cutthroats, Crooks and Conmen' but especially 'Cousin Jack' the Cornish miner's song, seemed to strike a chord with the audience.

Show of Hands played one of the best sets I've heard from them from a long time, including most of my favourites. This may well be because they have released a 'Best Of' album - most of which I agree with. Trouble is, Steve has written so many good songs that it must have been very difficult to select a double album's worth! Miranda Sykes joined Steve and Phil later, playing Double Bass and added her beautiful voice in duet with Steve for 'Blue Cockade'. The band seemed in good spirits, telling some jokes which at least Patrick hadn't heard before - glad to see Steve looking happier, although he still must be very worried about his son, Jack, who is still in hospital with Leukaemia. Phil is doing a sponsored slim to raise money for Jack's hospital amongst other causes - sponsorship forms available at gigs.

Once more Steve and Phil raised the roof - they are getting quite a following in Pontardawe!