RETURNING like old friends, American rock band Augustines certainly pack a punch beyond their size. What the trio lack in number and variety, they make up for in passion, audience connection and singalong choruses.

Frontman Billy McCarthy clearly attended the Bruce Springsteen school for musical youth. His fervent delivery and huge, both-barrelled voice undoubtedly carried the two-hour set.

Arriving in a naff blast of dry ice, Headlong Into The Abyss was a clear statement of intent. McCarthy’s hat was off before the end of the first verse as he threw himself into the song with its requisite big chorus. His long-time compadre Eric Sanderson was fractionally more retiring, stabbing at his keyboards or grabbing a guitar or bass. Drummer Rob Allen’s propulsion never let up.

A big voice on its own doesn’t guarantee great music (Reef anyone?), but Brooklyn's Augustines have something that people respond to. They are building an ardent fanbase, which should only expand further with their new radio-friendly, but over-produced This Is Your Life album. Like AC/DC or The Ramones, every song is greeted like an old favourite and mostly sound the same.

This is truly music with mass appeal, perfect for the football terrace or concert hall. It speaks volumes that the band have been supporting Noel Gallagher on tour. Like Oasis, or a closer match, Simple Minds, before them, Augustines have a melodic knack that is perfect for singing/shouting along to.

Earlier songs such as Philadelphia (The City Of Brotherly Love) have aged well. Best savoured live and unadorned, the crowd’s appreciation when McCarthy strode into the waving throng during Weary Eyes was palpable. His regard for them was unmistakable. For one night, a match made in heaven.