Ben Kweller @ QMU

Not satisfied with being an all-round supernice guy, Ben Kweller also puts on a mean live show. Branching out from the solo musicianship which gets laid down in the studio, Kweller is joined by a now-fixed touring collective, all suitably bohemian in appearance and harmonic in voice - you wouldn't expect anything else really. Opening with 'Penny on the Train Tracks', Kweller is as excited as the assembled worshippers - talking of his love for Glasgow and for his fans, he goes on to play many of the tracks from his latest self-titled album, all of which are met with the same genuine appreciation. At times throwing himself around the stage, Kweller's passion for his music is infectious with no real low points. There's the rockier numbers, such as 'Wasted' and 'Ready', the comedy offerings, such as a tight cover of Roger Miller's 'Chuggalug', and the beautifully delicate masterpieces, such as the peerless 'In Other Words', which closes the set after an impromptu 'Let it Be' jam. Tonight's gig was a masterclass in crowd-pleasing without any selling-out; Kweller played his songs the way they were meant to be played and those in attendance we loved it. [Jon Seller]