The Coral + Courteeners, Southampton Guildhall

AS the Courteeners swaggered onto the stage they were met by an audience's undivided attention, waiting to judge the NME darlings' potential.

With not so much as an introduction or greeting, they launched into their set with an explosive energy. Leaning into the mic with one hand behind his back, singer Liam Fray was showing off his best Gallagher impersonation and there were moments when flashes of potential transcended generic guitar playing and mundane singing which overshadowed the weaker moments.

When The Coral took to the stage, they opened with Firefly, Jacqueline and Rebecca You from their latest album, Roots and Echoes.

They gave a raw yet polished performance. Unlike earlier tours, there was no animated backdrop or dancing lights to detract from the music.

The previous five years of touring have served to tighten the band musically and give them confidence in letting their music, not the flashy show, impress their ever-expanding fanbase.