Here was a man who took six years to become an overnight success when White Ladder exploded on to the world's album charts. But between his first and that fourth album he continued to hone his craft, learn from the comments of critics and fans and emerged a man who knew what he was doing. And it ain't rocket science.

First, he sings loud (that's LOUD, actually). His head goes back and the music explodes from him.

Second, he plays with enthusiasm and energy.

And third, he enjoys every minute of being on stage (in fact, that is every single SECOND).

From the opening solo version of Shine which, neatly, opened debut album A Century Ends, to rousing crowd-pleasing final encore You're The World To Me, Gray spent two solid hours having the time of his life - and leaving his audience in no doubt that they should do the same.

Did you see the show? What did you think? Post your comments below.

The greatest hits tour was just that, a stream of knock-em-dead songs. A sing-along Babylon came in early to raise the bar to a dizzy height, and it stayed there for the rest of the show. Sail Away, This Year's Love...the hits took on new vibrancy performed live and you knew that every night produced a new take on those old songs.

The show (pre-encores) came to an end with a blistering version of The Other Side, with Gray crouched at the piano while the Men In Grey IV (his faultless grey-suited band) showed the sensitivity of truly seasoned musicians.

And the best thing about the show was that it appealed to everyone from grandkids to grannies. Every age group was seen grinning with delight after a show which delighted more than dazzled but which will not be forgotten for a long, long time.

And a note about support artist Beth Rowley. Her stunning, punch-packing Winehouse-style vocals set the scene for Gray's no-holds-barred show. Pleasant as new single Oh My Life may be, it did little to prepare anyone for the huge sound Rowley delivers. Watch out for her album, Little Dreamer, out next month.