A three-hour long assault on the senses would be the best way to describe Nigel Kennedy's colourful and vigorous performance in NDK's Hall One on June 15.

The pieces from last night's concert were taken from Kennedy's latest collection entitled A Very Nice Album, inspired by various styles.

The other members of the so-called Nigel Kennedy Quintet were all Polish musicians: drummer Krzysztof Dziedzic, bass player Adam Kowaleski, pianist Piotr Wylezot and saxophonist Tomasz Grzegors with Kennedy playing the electric violin.

An eclectic mix of jazz and rock numbers - including some he had composed himself - electrified some members of the audience who were seen clapping hands and even dancing. But perhaps those (misguidedly) expecting a more classical rendition were disappointed because about 100 people or more chose to depart before the end. Young people seemed to enjoy the proceedings more. Perhaps older people found the concert over-long.

Kennedy began with some jazz numbers, including a particularly excellent number entitled A Bottle of French Wine before veering towards hard rock. In one of the rock pieces he incorporated the famous Deep Purple classic Smoke on the Water.

Kennedy indulged in his typical playful banter with his orchestra, accompanied by his usual swearing patter. He entered the auditorium not via the stage but from the audience in keeping with his request beforehand that he should have as much contact with the public as possible.

The concert started at 8.20pm and ended three hours later. This was Kennedy's third appearance in Sofia.

Read The Sofia Echo on Friday for an interview with Nigel Kennedy.