It may have taken me 25 years, but tonight was the night when one of my favourite classic rock bands, Y&T were back in town and I wasn't going to miss them again as it was on the AC/DC 1982 'Back In Black' tour that they left their mark on me musically, but my slight worry was am I going to be slightly disappointed by them after all these years.

The first thing to hit me when I entered the Academy was how full it was for such an early start, the second thing was that I wasn't the oldest person there as the 'Old school gang' were out in force tonight and when Y&T hit the stage, they got a huge heroes welcome as they burst into life with the short instrumental 'From The Moon' and jumping straight into 'Open Fire', Dave Meniketti proving he definitely hasn't lost any power in that instantly recognisable voice of his.

'Hungry For Rock' followed and it was clear to see that the band were going to enjoy themselves as bassist Phil Kennemore and rhythm guitarist John Nymann began strutting their stuff without looking arrogant as some people do, and drummer Mike Vanderhule looking quite at home set back from the others laying into his kit with precision and ease.

Meniketti eventually got to have a few words, genuinely overwhelmed at the welcome they had been given by such a huge audience especially after being around for so many years and of course ... 'how warm and friendly you Geordie people are' ...and our great saying ... 'Howay the lads!'. Audience well and truly won over then!!

Next was 'Lipstick And Leather' which seemed to be a favourite amongst quite a few of the women around us and when 'Dirty Girl' followed, the lads took over, both songs getting a good response all round.  What was noticeable about the stage was the fact that the lighting was kept simple, just changing coloured lights and a single spot light to highlight certain band members, no fancy or huge set up, just letting the music talk for itself and it was.  Take note all you supposed big bands!

Continuing through with 'I Keep On Believin', the thumping 'Straight Through The Heart' and the sublime 'Winds Of Change', the mood all round was perfect from the band rubbing off onto the fans who were on top form, Dave Meniketti still showing signs of being taken aback by the warmth shown to the band on what was turning out to be a 'Best Of' night for all concerned.

After two cracking songs 'Midnight In Tokyo' and the ever rocking 'Black Tiger', the tempo changed with Meniketti going all bluesy on lead guitar for a slow and moody instrumental which seemed to take the audience by surprise but was still well received before the fun began with shouts for certain songs causing the band to come to a halt and eventually choosing to try their hand at on unrehearsed version of 'Don't Wanna Lose You', which stuttered along much to everyone's delight.

After a song all about sex (apparently!) called 'Eyes Of A Stranger', the song practically everyone was waiting for burst into life and the crowd sang along word for word as Meniketti held court over them all.  The song in question was of course 'Rescue Me', one of the all time classic rock songs from the early 80's and the band proved it tonight as they did back then and it was spot on.  Hell, it even had me nodding my head and wiggling my butt in time!

They were always going to return to the stage which they did quite quickly and again Meniketti thanked everyone for their support throughout and declaring that they will be back next year, then ended the show altogether with a storming version of 'Forever'.

After 33 years in the business Y&T did themselves proud tonight choosing songs you won't get sick of hearing and putting on a brilliant gig for Newcastle.  Long may it continue and to answer my own question from earlier on, was I disappointed?  Absolutely NO WAY!!

Roll on next year!