HALFWAY through a 24- date UK tour, American pop music legends the Drifters captivated a packed Pavilion. After more than 60 years of recording and performing, with dozens of ever changing vocalists, the Drifters' distinctive brand of feel-good pop songs remains addictive, soulful and thoroughly entertaining.

The successful formula consists of memorable melodies, rich harmonies and hooky choruses. Their perceptive thoughtful lyrics convey timeless universal teenage lifestyles - Kissing In The Back Row Of The Movies, Under The Boardwalk, and Save The Last Dance For Me.

Opening with the smooth On Broadway and their recent hit Do You Dream Of Me, the Drifters' five excellent vocalists wowed the mixed-age audience. The six-piece backing band is tight, talented and superbly professional. One of the show's highlights is the Drifters' heartfelt version of the late Ben E King's classic Stand By Me, while their smooth and slick choreography illuminates Up On The Roof, When My Little Girl Is Smiling, and the irresistible Come On Over To My Place.

There is clear musical development from the funky Down At The Club to the sophisticated and mature arrangements of Like Sister And Brother. The fantastic finale, with the audience up singing and dancing, included There Goes My First Love, You're More Than A Number In My Little Red Book, and Down On The Beach Tonight. And the well-deserved encore was the Drifters' anthem of teenage social history Saturday Night At The Movies. A world-class show!