Even on a cold Monday night, Rockabilly royalty Lee Rocker proved his swagger remains untouchable. The legendary Stray Cats bassist stormed into 229 Great Portland Street, double bass in tow, and delivered a masterclass in Rock ‘n’ Roll showmanship. The crowd - a mix of die-hard fans, curious punks and quiffed-up rockabillies - was primed for a night of relentless energy and slapping basslines.

The TR5’s warmed up the room with a whirlwind of twangy guitar licks and hip-shaking rhythms straight from a 1950s roadhouse. Lesser-known, perhaps, but by the end, they had the audience bopping along like seasoned fans.

Rocker opened his set with a jaw-dropping stunt, kicking his double bass upright from where it lay sideways on the floor, setting the tone for what was to come. Still riding the momentum of that move, he launched into ‘Runaway Boys', instantly electrifying the crowd. At one point, he even hoisted his double bass and played it like a guitar, drawing cheers from the audience. Any doubts about age slowing him down were obliterated - he was fiery, sharp, and as charismatic as ever.

Stray Cats classics (‘Stray Cat Strut', ‘Rumble In Brighton’), Bluesy detours and solo cuts filled the set, his band tight and commanding. Buzz Campbell dazzled on his sparkly Gretsch guitar, while Phil Parlapiano’s outstanding piano work added richness to the sound. Larry Mitchell kept time on drums perfectly throughout the night, providing a steady backbone for the performance. As Rocker reached the end of his set, he twirled his arms in a windmill-like motion, adding a flourish to his already electric performance. By the time he closed with ‘Rock This Town', the crowd was fully hooked.

If this show proved anything, it’s that Rockabilly isn’t just alive - it’s thriving. London’s greasers and gig-goers alike bore witness to a legend at his best.

Ivan De Mello