All mod, no cons – Weller is in the city

THE greatest singer- songwriter of his generation, Paul Weller is certainly no stranger to the Plymouth Pavilions having played here on numerous occasions over the years.

But 2008 saw the Modfather riding particularly high with his No 1-selling solo album, 22 Dreams, on course to outsell Stanley Road, his most successful solo album to date.

It wasn't only punters who loved the album, though. Critics were to be found grappling for superlatives, the Guardian naming it "a triumph", Q awarding it four stars and hailing it "24-carat Weller" and the Sunday Times labelling it "as fresh and creative as the stuff he wrote 30 years ago".

Hailed as a sort of Weller version of the Beatles' White Album, 22 Dreams incorporates a hugely diverse range of musical styles and it's particularly thrilling to hear him return to his roots with R&B-led tracks such as Empty Ring, Luck, Headstart For Happiness and Changing Of the Guard.

What's more, in his 50th year on the planet his live show seems to have wowed sell-out audiences the world over, more than ever.

His world tour included visits to Japan, USA and Europe plus a stint in Australia, a first since 1985 when he toured with the Style Council.

So next Thursday, March 19, should be a particularly good time to see Paul Weller, and the good news is that there are still tickets left at £32.50.

Call the Pavilions box office on 0845 146 1460.