Jamiroquai, MEN Arena

THE Space Cowboy himself returned to Manchester as part of Jamiroquai's new Funk Odyssey tour.

And his fans turned out in their thousands to give frontman Jay Kay and his crew their support -- proving the band has not lost its sparkle despite being in its 10th year of fame.

Jay body-popped onto the stage, flanked by two huge screens and set against a backdrop of palm trees. Deafening cheers vibrated around the awesome Arena.

This time, he left his usual dapper suits behind and instead opted for casual clothes. But he still sported his trademark crazy hat -- this one of white towelling and metal blades was more wild than usual.

Singing a mixture of tunes from albums past and present, the crowds grooved along to new hits such as "Little L", the first song to be released from his new album, but still still went wild for old favourites such as "Cosmic Girl" and "Travelling Without Moving".

The music and dancing was as fresh, funky and polished as you would expect from such a well established artist.

Unfortunately, his cheeky chappy cockney banter between songs wore a bit thin and I was glad when he shut up and did what he does best -- sing!

The crowds were treated to a "blink and you might miss her" appearance from soul diva Beverley Knight, who lent her stunning vocals to two of Jamiroquai's hits on stage.

Her presence added to the already super-charged party atmosphere of the gig. When the concert ended, the overwhelming feeling was that despite a rapturous encore, no-one wanted the party to be over.

This was a stunning show -- wonderful music, great dancing, fantastic sets and lighting and some amazing instrument playing. It proved the Space Cowboy and his Funk Odyssey tour looks set to remain out of this world.