James Morrison @ Cannock Chase

Jun 25 2007 By Alison Dayani, Birmingham Mail

GLASTONBURY was not the only place to hold open air gigs in a muddy field over the weekend.

Midland music fans also experienced their own mini festival at Cannock Chase Forest, but with far less rain.

James Morrison took his turn on Saturday night, sandwiched between The Feeling on Friday and Jools Holland on Sunday.

His raspy tones soulfully warmed the atmosphere as the sun set on a beautiful backdrop of gigantic fir trees and endless fields.

And the scenery was as stunning as his voice - wildly husky, melancholy at times and yet also sumptuously smooth.

Despite only one album, the young singer kept the crowd entertained for nearly an hour and a half, with hits You Give Me Something, The Pieces Don't Fit Anymore and Wonderful World particular highlights.

With thousands enjoying the gig for the Forestry Commission, this was a large venue for a relative newcomer, albeit an extremely talented one.

Although I think his music would be better suited in more intimate surroundings, Morrison did carry off the show with soulful style.