She's diminutive, but Beverley Knight - first lady of British soul - made a huge impression at the New Theatre, Oxford, on Monday.

Reminiscent of a young Tina Turner, and with a vocal range and style every bit as good, Beverley exuded raw energy as she strode and strutted round the stage in micro-mini dress and killer heels.

Her vocal range is amazing - from the gospel songs of her latest album Music City Soul, to the pumping soul rock of Come As You Are, Beverley gave nothing less than 100 per cent throughout her 90-minute set.

This 34-year-old dynamo from Wolverhampton certainly held me entranced as she strutted her stuff, never letting the pumping party atmosphere falter for a minute, involving her audience all the way. At one point, the entire crowd joined in singing backing - this kind of thing is, more often than not, a damp squib, but the whole theatre took part with gusto. As well as gospel, and an acoustic set, she certainly didn't skimp on most popular songs - Shoulda Woulda Coulda, Piece of My Heart, No Man's Land, Sista Sista, Gold.

Beverley was unstoppable, and great entertainment, but her gutsy vocals weren't for the faint-hearted, and I heard a few fans describe their 'ringing ears' as they left the theatre. Apart, from that, everyone loved her, and if you get the opportunity, I rate her unmissable.