Jeremy Warmsley

He’s been a long time coming, but tonight unassuming songsmith Jim Noir finally graces a London stage. Following a string of idyllic, lullaby-filled EPs, his recently compiled Tower Of Love LP was met with such an enormous blanket of critical acclaim that Christmas chez-Noir must have been a very happy time indeed - as is tonight’s lovingly measured performance. If the huddled mass of scarf-clutching industry/punters are simply thankful for a respite from the bitter January cold, Jim Noir’s cockle-warming harmonic arrangements make sure they leave feeling comfortable and revitalised.

Oscillating between semi-acoustic bops and acoustic pastorale, it’s evident after the first few songs – which include the charming 'A Quiet Man' – that the man and his excellent band have managed to transfer these psychedelic laments from record to stage with utmost ease and precision. Later the joyous choruses of 'Key Of C are met with rapturous applause, as is the Small Faces-esque mod-ska of 'My Patch' – the visibly nervous Jim continuing to direct his band through some very intricate harmonies.

What’s most startling about tonight, besides the quality of the songs on show, is the fact that this is essentially a one-man gig – something that cements Jim Noir as an exceptional talent in 2006. Playfully vibrant and endlessly inventive, the multi-instrumental Manc’s first visit to the Capital is an unquestionable success.