"YOU make the miles worthwhile," drawled Tony Joe at the end of a totally compelling performance.

Louisiana's king of swamp rock was the latest in a long line of quality American musicians to grace the Portswood venue, and he didn't disappoint.

That smoky voice, bluesy guitar licks and haunting harmonica, plus some moody percussion from "Boom Boom" were the ingredients in a highly evocative musical gumbo.

Highlights of the 90-minute set included all the old favourites written by Tony Joe - Rainy Night In Georgia, Polk Salad Annie and Steamy Windows - getting the biggest cheers.

Lesser-known songs like the rousing and raunchy Do You Wear A Garter Belt illustrated Tony Joe's wry humour, while Lake Placid Blues and Closer To The Truth demonstrated the introspective side of his songwriting.

Encoring with the funky, upbeat Organic Shuffle from his new album, Tony Joe left an ecstatic crowd demanding more. Brilliant stuff.