Any blues venue worth its salt would have had John Mayall on its bill at one point. During his fifty year career the pioneering musician has graced some of the most iconic stages and toured with an impressive set of musicians.

So when the newly opened Charlotte Street Blues opened its doors to the maestro from Macclesfield, it secured its position as the hot new club to watch on the blues circuit.

Slick and with a laid-back, comfortable ambience this was the ideal spot in which to see a musician accustomed to playing for much bigger audiences. And it was the rare opportunity to catch Mayall in such an intimate setting that meant every track was savoured.

From classic numbers and the odd special request to songs penned more recently, each had a common tone – that unbeatable, raw hum that comes from only the best kind of blues.

Rocky Athas (guitar), Greg Rzab (bass), Jay Davenport (drums) and Tom Canning (keyboards) provided fantastic backing. What a joy it was to watch a group of musicians doing what they do and love best.

A final jam showcased the band’s improvisational skills amply and prompted a triumphant encore. This marked the end of Mayall’s European tour. Suffice to say, he finished on a high.