Singer-songwriter and folk musician Ralph McTell kicked off a mammoth series of musical events that formed part of the big splash weekend on Friday evening at Newport Riverfront.

Ralph entertained a packed theatre on his Gibson G45 for over 100 minutes with a repertoire that included music which had inspired him over the decades. He also included several of his own signature classics as well as tracks from his new album “Somewhere down the Road”

The concert began in fine style with Ralph’s version of Woody Guthrie’s Travelin' Man. This was followed by a song he wrote about being in awe of London entitled London Apprentice.

Having a knack of mixing storytelling with song performances Ralph gave colourful and comical anecdotes spanning back to the 1960s including performing at the Bexhill on Sea Folk Festival in 1965 alongside Paul Simon and appearing on Top Of the Pops in the 1970s with Queen and Elton John.

The highlight of the evening however; was his performance of Streets of London, his best known recording. The track which needed no introduction and got applause of appreciation from the audience before everybody joined in with the songs lyrics. Ralphs voice and acoustic guitar set against the backdrop of fine singing from the audience was indeed a magical experience.

Ralph wrapped up the concert with his song Kettle Wine written in Penygroes and delivering stirring images of mountains, lakes and a beautiful red skyline. A truly inspiring scene setter for an evening of great music.