A LIVE performance is always the test of a singer's true ability.

We can all recall gigs where the acts sounded like something the cat dragged in and nothing like the their latest CD, enhanced by expert producers and modern technology.

Nothing like this, however, can be aimed at the fabulous Paul Weller, who went down a storm on at Preston's Guild Hall on Saturday.

Belting out a variety of his recent hits, as well as tracks from his fifth studio album Heliocentric, this is one gig that will be remembered for years to come.

It was the singer's first UK tour for two years and Preston welcomed him with open arms. Every inch of the hall was packed with Weller fans and few remained seated throughout.

The only unfortunate thing was that the performer was not projected onto the huge screens situated at the back of the stage, meaning revellers in the rear seats had a poor view.

But, for a show that was sold out long before it was advertised, it is doubtful that anyone even cared -- just to be in the presence of this awesome guy seemed to be enough.

This giant of the rock world has carved a great career in his post-Jam days.

We look forward to seeing many more good, popular singers at the Charter Theatre and Guild Hall -- a venue that is drumming up quite a reputation for hosting some of the world's finest performers.