TABLOID staple Pete Doherty told the Press this week on hitting the big 30 he fears he will not be remembered for his music.

The drugs, the girlfriends, his grubby squalid life have fascinated us like a slow-motion car crash.

But how many songs can we recall. The launch of his debut solo album Grace/Wastelands today could mark a turning point and his loyal fans who packed into Southampton Guildhall last night would certainly agree.

A more sanitised Peter could be replacing the crackpot caricature Pete that the Press have loved to hate.

Suited and booted in his Sunday best suit and trademark Trilby he captivated the audience as he rolled out countless hit songs.

The self styled people’s poet opened with an acoustic version of the Libertines’ Can’t Stand Me Now, shortly followed by Music When The Lights Go Out – songs that were welcomed like old friends.

It was a show designed to please all. An eclectic mix of songs – some newly written and some resurrected and brushed up were performed from the new album which has been produced by Stephen Street who previously worked with Pete’s major influence The Smiths and The Libertines.

Stand out tracks included the new single Last of the English Roses and 1939 Returning, a brilliantly crafted beautifully written sultry song.

He had fun with the audience, taunting them with his QPR shirt whilst swigging back Guinness, really testing their loyalty. Hopefully in control and on top of his performance armed with only his acoustic guitar this was a welcome reminder of what an exceptional raw talent Pete Doherty is.

Hilary Porter