IN these times of austerity the coalition government could do far worse than appoint Jools Holland, Boogie Woogie Tsar.

The piano impresario's tours could become official government policy and he could be sent up and down the country spreading his own brand of musical cheer.

Having witnessed he and his band in action at close hand I am confident a dose of Holland is just what the nation needs to help the medicine go down.

Almost preacher-like in his working of the crowd, Holland had the audience in the church-like confines of Middlesbrough Town Hall in the palm of his hand from the very first note and by the end he had everyone, including the infirm, dancing in the aisles.

But the glory of Holland's shows is that it is not just about him. While watching him tinkering with the ivories is mesmorising, his fellow band members are just as accomplished in their chosen fields. His apparent lack of ego means that all are afforded their own place in the spotlight.

Dressed casually rather than in starched suits, the band gave the impression of being part of some huge jam session and their joy and energy passed down into the crowd, making this not just a concert, but an event.

Blues, rock and roll and gospel songs were belted out for nigh on two hours, in a show that saw guest appearances by the soulful Ruby Turner and 60s icon Sandie Shaw, who seemed genuinely overwhelmed by the reception she was given.

A truly, truly memorable evening.