Dean Friedman, Robin 2, Bilston - review

The wordsmith wonder from New Jersey had excellent command of the stage; performing a two-hour set entirely on his own - except for the help of the few fans he recruited for the show.

As Dean strolled on stage and strapped on an acoustic guitar, the venue erupted with cheers and applause before Dean kicked off the evening with late 70s number Company.

"It's really lovely to see you all here," beamed the 62-year-old star.

"I'm gonna play you some tunes - a bunch of stuff from over the years.

"Then, for the second set, I'm going to tackle that second album."

Dean's tour marks 40 years since the release of album 'Well, Well,' Said The Rocking Chair, released in 1978, which featured some of the singer/songwriter's biggest hits.

"It's kinda weird being the 40th anniversary," added Dean.

"It took me by surprise."

In between songs from the album, Dean treated fans to an array of humorous numbers, including I'm Not Sorry To See You Go, and another about his mother loving to cook called A Million Matzah Balls.

Next came a wonderful rendition of Woman Of Mine, which saw Dean reach the tremendously high notes with ease, with lovely projection and tone.

"That's something I wrote when I was 16," he explained, much to fans' surprise.

He performed a few songs from his latest album 12 Songs too, including Your Pretty Face and This Guitar, as well as a touching number he wrote for his sister when she was travelling, which was a lovely display of his genuine sweetness and ability to write from the heart.

McDonald's Girl followed, which Dean was keen to point out he had written from the perspective of a teenager, given it is a love song about a 15 year old.

"This is off the third album which was filled with teenage love songs," he added.

The second half then saw Dean launch straight into the album title track 'Well, Well' Said The Rocking Chair, which went down a storm.

Ahead of the tour, the US star had asked fans to submit videos for a chance to sing alongside him on stage for iconic duet Lucky Stars.

The winner for the evening was a young girl named Jennifer, whose voice was absolutely stunning - leaving fans in shock as she sang the most beautiful rendition of the chart hit.

Fans were then treated to Shopping Bag Ladies, The Deli Song, S&M and Let Down Your Hair, as well as a stunning performance of fan favourite Lydia.

Dean ended the show with an excellent, faultless rendition of Ariel, managing the high-reaching range and fast pace with enjoyment and deftness as the fans sang along to every word.

A tremendous show, filled with funny anecdotes, excellent crowd interaction, superb vocals and musical talent.

Come back soon Dean.