DESPITE being born blind, Jose Feliciano has earned a reputation throughout the world as "the greatest living guitarist". It gives the Puerto Rican something to live up to, but judging by the reaction from the crowd, it is a well-earned mantle.

He is 60 this year but started playing as a youngster in the clubs of Greenwich Village. By 16, he was contributing to the family income by playing folk, flamenco and pop.

His skill is obvious, along with the passion he has for his music, and it is clear why he was the first Latin artist to successfully cross over from Spanish to English.

He kicked off his North-East gig with a powerful, finger-picking version of Ain't No Sunshine. It was a beautiful take on the classic track, and his style of flamenco guitar wowed the audience and sounded fantastic with the amazing acoustics of the main hall.

There was no break throughout the set but nobody seemed to need one as people enjoyed the complex melodies he was belting out. There were plenty of easily recognisable songs, such as his famous versions of California Dreaming and Light My Fire.

Feliciano also showed his very genuine, humane side, offering a message of solidarity following the terrorist attacks in London. It was a touching moment, followed by a tender version of John Lennon's Imagine that seemed to strike a chord in the crowd.

His musical genius and compassion had the audience spellbound throughout the evening and by the end, everyone was on their feet in applause.

Published: 12/07/2005