Curtis Stigers has built up a loyal following in the UK and on the basis of this gig it is easy to see why. He has a natural rapport with the audience, a good choice of material (a mixture of originals, standards and songs by the likes of Bob Dylan, Tom Waits and Paul Simon) and a great band. This was the third or fourth time he'd played at the Newark Palace Theatre and the place was packed. I was also impressed with the way Curtis and the guys took time after the show to talk to the fans, pose for photos and sign autographs - they were there for about an hour and took time to see everyone.