IN his signature flat cap, Gregory Porter, the Grammy award-winning American jazz singer songwriter took to the BIC stage on Tuesday evening.

Porter, who is a regular on Jools Holland and the Chris Evans Radio 2 show, brought his talented six-piece band and soulful voice to town.

The gentle Californian brings a spirit from another age yet with a modern day relevance which is no doubt one of the reasons for his success over recent years.

He has been described as "a jazz singer of thrilling presence, a booming baritone with a gift for earthy refinement and soaring uplift" and his show did not disappoint.

With an array of musical talents in abundance, he kicked off the evening in style with the instantly recognisable Holding On.

His emotive set included Take Me to the Alley and the ever popular Hey Laura.

Porter built the energy back up with Liquid Spirit, encouraging the audience to clap along.

In his most recent record, Nat King Cole And Me, Porter pays homage to Cole, his music idol, who without a father figure often took guidance and advice through listening to his music growing up. With that he went on to sing Smile wonderfully.

Returning back for the encore Porter delivered the beautiful No Love Dying ensuring that the audience of all ages had a thoroughly enjoyable evening and in return earned his standing ovation.

David Martin