Neil Finn: City Hall, Newcastle

One of the world's best kept musical secrets rocked Newcastle City Hall last night and proved that New Zealand can produce more than lamb.

Neil Finn is probably their best known export and if his name doesn't ring a bell then Crowded House should.

He was the song-writing force behind the band whose pop gems warmed the hearts of fans worldwide.

Soaring melodies and choruses that infect your head, you really do know more Crowded House songs than you think, and they are without doubt Finn's trademark.

Fans were not disappointed.

He opened with a new track and followed with the classic Distant Sun. The new and the old followed, flowing seamlessly.

The audience embraced all like they were old favourites and re-established Finn as a crowd-pleasing entertainer.

The 43-year-old lifted spirits and tugged at heart strings with his three-minute masterpieces.

Finn indulged in some playful banter with the audience.

He invited us all into his private universe and made Newcastle City Hall feel special for a night.

His performance, backed by an impressive band, pleased old fans and introduced them to his new songs.

Neil Finn can do no wrong in the eyes of many and deserves more from a much wider British audience.