*****

IT IS memorable to see The Tiger Lillies in any venue, especially a tent, and most especially the wonderful Spiegeltent.

The setting was perfect for the new show, a tribute to Edith Piaf - "one of their greatest influences".

As well as Piaf songs there was new material and golden oldies such as Aunty Mabel. Roll Up suitably started and the whole tent was immediately focused.

The songs were all punk short with suitably dramatic endings.

La Vie En Rose got a big reaction and served as a reminder of The Lillies spiritual roots ... drugs, whores, the freaks and downtrodden.

This is Tom Waits's ideal warm-up band, loitering on the grimy edges of life, defiant and proud.

Nothing need be said between the songs: Adrian Stout imperious on double bass, theremin and saw; Martin Jacques charismatic on accordion and piano, his extraordinary shrill vocal everywhere, with a dramatic range covering the purity of Anthony and The Johnsons to the whimsicality of a Joyce Grenfell from the wrong side of town.

The second half was even more sublime than the first, with Pin Cushion Edith outstanding.

On an evening full of post bank holiday blues The Lillies made everyone forget tomorrow without trying too hard.