MUSICIAN and designer Scott Evans has been on the prowl again on behalf of Lowe Down and he recently caught The Needletones in action on the Torbay circuit.

Scott tells me The Needletones is one of the best bands he's seen for a long time. Here's his review.

"Awesome, that is the only word to describe The Needletones who recently played to a full house at the John Bull in Torquay. I have seen a lot of fantastic groups to date but this band really has raised the bar for excellence.

"The Needletones are a three-piece who presented their audience with a mesmerising set of exhilarating rock classics.

"Lead singer and bass player Chris Babbage delivered vocals with a physical performance that perfectly embodied the spirit of the psychedelic rock anthems which the group belted out in amazing style.

"This was not, though, a one man show. On the contrary, the musical chemistry between all three members was electrifying and that vibe fed-out to the entire audience who revelled in it.

"Lead guitarist Owen Burgess had no problem playing wild and legendary Hendrix and Led Zep riffs with beautiful skill and, not to be left out, Leigh Morley-Payne provided a bombastic performance on drums, including a thunderous John Bonham-style solo to much appreciation in the second half.

"From the small John Bull stage The Needletones gave a giant performance which was fun to witness. I believe it's likely to be some time before I see a group which impresses as much as this one did."