Jools Holland and big name stars go together like the man and his piano - you simply can't separate them in your mind.

When the popular pianist and bandleader is in town, you know the world's most talented musicians will follow - take his current tour, where there are guest slots by KT Tunstall, Marc Almond and our own Melanie C.

It was the turn of Southport-born singer Marc for the boogie woogie king's latest Liverpool Philharmonic Hall appearance - which is becoming an annual fixture rather like his New Year Hootenanny.

Combined with the talents of the Jools orchestra, the former Soft Cell singer's charismatic cameo - including, of course, Tainted Love - was a dazzling display of musicianship that had the audience up on its feet - eventually. Maybe Monday night isn't the right night for a party.

Jools Holland performing at The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

The show is a two-hour musical tour-de-force showcasing showstopping vocals delivered by Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Mabel Ray, the newest member of the gang. Former Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis, who has been working with Jools for 30 years, delivers a mesmerising drum solo that the master of ceremonies proclaims to be "one of the greatest solos Liverpool has ever seen" - and it's hard to argue with that assessment.

Last time around, the charming, dapper Jools - an excitable grin never far from his face - revealed his great-grandfather was a Scouser and the love-in continues. He says Liverpool is "One of my favourite places to come" and charms the audience by praising the "erudite, well-informed crowd" who know all about Fats Waller.

Jools and the orchestra have 67 tour dates this year but their enthusiasm is still palpable, trying everything to get the crowd on their feet. The main man is so relaxed on stage that it feels more like an intimate gathering of musical friends.

Jools Holland performing at The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

He's everywhere - an engaging host, watching from the sidelines, pianist, singer - but never hogs the limelight, introducing each member of the orchestra and giving them their turn in the spotlight. The show is ear-splittingly loud at times but it's never less than entertaining, creating a party atmosphere despite the unseasonal gloom outside.

There's a nod to Liverpool musical history with a guest appearance by Pete Wylie, who delivers a rousing rendition of The Wonder of You.

Brummie soul queen Ruby Turner is the last guest singer to appear - and almost raises the roof with some lung-busting, seemingly effortless vocals.