A pioneering figure whose career spanned four decades and countless genres, there was a groundswell of love in the sold-out Concorde 2 for Roy Ayers.

The Californian has been variously credited with inventing jazz-funk and acid jazz, his reinventions influencing several new generations through adventures in blaxploitation, Afropop and house.

While never a bona fide star, he was justifiably treated to a reception worthy of a living legend, his back catalogue rediscovered and popularised by countless crate-digging hip-hoppers.

Tracks like Evolution and Everybody Loves The Sunshine had lost none of their timelessness.

But as for Roy himself, this was more of an appearance than a virtuoso performance.

The 73-year-old held down a few tunes with a co-singer, but on the vibraphone – the instrument that made his name – his powers had faded.

This left the more elaborate soloing up to his junior Ubiquity bandmate as Roy, well, vibed.

The rhythm section was tight enough, the set bubbling along at a quick pace.

But it was all blended into a funky soup at times, and more of the nuanced jazz sounds he is known for would have been preferable. 

Still, Roy’s inimitable style, charisma and towering status made this a special occasion in Brighton – even if it was tainted at times by fat-fingered playing and a sense of half-heartedness.