Michael Roach may be a traditional American bluesman steeped in the roots of early 20th century East Coast music but he’s a long way removed from your stereotypical back door man.

Born in Washington DC – one of 13 children – he learned at the feet of the masters, taking lessons from Jerry Ricks, John Jackson and John Cephas, But for the past 15 years Roach has been based on this side of the pond. These days he pays his dues by teaching community workshops at Gloucester library.

So it was that his show at Forest Arts in New Milton came all the way from what he jokingly refers to as “the Severn delta.” It was good humoured affair, occasionally gently slapdash but thoroughly enjoyable all the same.

We got a mixture of sublime musicianship, enjoyable anecdotes and a mini masterclass on black American music as seen from a European perspective.

It was a concert that mixed roots classics with spirituals and English nursery rhymes. Jack and Jill and the ever contrary Mary reinvented as blues standards. It was a toe-tapper and an eye-opener.

Roach is a clever musician who wears his considerable knowledge lightly.

A natural teacher and entertainer.