That's the Scottish Symphony Orchestra. No, wait, come back!

This was an evening themed around the Scotland's History series. I thought this was a rather good series although I see it has come in for a panning from some quarters for being 'too English'. No, I've absolutely no idea what they mean either.

Anyhow, first up was Mackintosh-Ross (AKA them from Deacon Blue) with a rather good country-rocking set. Their usual band (inc chief pearl-fisher Davie Scott) backed by the SSO. I've never really got the Weedgie fascination with country but this was pleasant enough.

Next up was Neil Oliver, presenter of Scotland's History, for a few vox pops with Jackie Bird. This was immediately followed by the SSO playing the music from the series, against a backdrop of suitably atmospheric clips.

Again, OK. I should say that I suspect that this was why more than half of the audience were there. We, on the other hand, had come for God Help the Girl, Stuart Murdoch's solo project, where he was backed by most of Belle & Sebastian (was that an afro Stevie was sporting?). This was wonderful and the orchestra was used to good effect on some swooping ballads. Ace and worth the price of admission on its own.

Last up, which I enjoyed more than I thought I would, was Eddi Reader and band (inc Boo Hewerdine) playing selections from her 'Songs of Burns' album. I have to say that I've always thought of her as a striking voice in search of material to match. Who'd have thought that songs written over 200 years ago would provide that match. Her Burns interpretations are really very good indeed. She succeeds in rescuing them from dusty schoolbooks and kitsch TV shows and making them seem relevant and fun. And again, the SSO were used to lush effect. And she got the biggest laugh of the night by dedicating Ay Fond Kiss to "..the love affair that broke my heart this year. Katie Price and Peter Andre."

So, a rather varied night, which was never less than interesting. The variation might account for the poor promotion of this concert, which didn't succeed in selling out the Usher Hall. Surprising, given the bargain price of £15 for a ticket.