Neil Diamond @ Hampden Park, 2 July

Last time Neil Diamond visited Hampden, the crowd was forced to brave the elements for a taste of his glittering back catalogue. Not so on this occasion, as loyal devotees take their seats for a balmy Scottish evening with the Brooklyn Cowboy. And the one-man hit factory delivers the goods from the kick-off, in an arena normally more accustomed to witnessing glorious failure than triumphant success.

Regular set opener Soolaimon (translated as ‘Hello’ or ‘Welcome’) sets the tone for the evening; despite the slightly immobile nature of a large section of the crowd, a genuine feeling of excitement lingers in the air. A rendition of Red Red Wine, which gives more than just a tip of the cap to the UB40 cover that introduced it to a new generation, is eagerly received by those able to remember both. Also peppered between hits like Forever In Blue Jeans – which unites karaoke and jukebox fans from across the country in delirious unison – are the lesser known Morningside and Shilo. The quality and momentum of the set remains steady throughout.

Despite perhaps slightly overcooking the behemoth that is Sweet Caroline with a few too many repeated choruses (we lose count after three) all is forgiven as we’re treated to Holly Holy and Crunchy Granola Suite. Sounding as good tonight as they did on Diamond’s classic 1972 live album Hot August Night. But, a powerful, heartfelt rendition of the more recent Hell Yeah from 2005’s Rick Rubin-produced 12 Songs proves that he doesn't solely dine out on his earlier work.

Often unfairly labelled with the ‘kitsch’ or ‘cheesy’ tag due to his Vegas style shows, as a songwriter who was often covered by the King himself, tonight he demonstrates exactly why he was finally inducted into America’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame earlier this year. Proof that Diamond is forever.