I had the great joy of attending the show at the Birchmere in Alexandria last night. Here is my review following a few words to put it into perspective. This was my 7th or 8th time seeing the ISB, my first being in Glasgow some 37 years ago and my last (before this one) being in Exeter a while ago.

My review of the Exeter show was mixed.  The best of it was sterling but I felt that some of it sounded tired. This show, in spite of (and I dearly trust not in any way because of) the absence of Robin, was brilliant. Every number was magical and I left shaking because I was so thrilled.

The band seemed to be having fun much more than in Exeter. Lawson seemed more integrated and he greatly impressed me. Sleepers Awake brought tears to my eyes. Mike's very different solo version of This Moment was a delight. Hearing A Very Cellular Song performed live for what I believe was the first time was awesome (or maybe I've just forgotten!) Mike's expression of delight at Rowan Williams' picking the ISB on Desert Island Discs was palpable.

The only possible disappointment that I could express is that they did not perform Douglas Traherne Harding, the one song that blew me away last time.

After Exeter I was a little apprehensive, not that I ever stopped being the most ardent of fans. Today I can only be gushing. For me this show was absolutely glorious and I think those of you who have yet to catch this tour are in for a marvellous treat.