Just before Bad Company hit the stage, Free’s Alright Now came over the speakers.

The message was clear: “This is the only time you’re going to hear that stuff tonight – so don’t bother asking.”

Maybe it was unfair to expect singer Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke to play material by their much-loved other band.

But seeing they were on stage for just 80 minutes, after running out of Bad Company hits well before the 11pm curfew, it didn’t seem too impertinent.

Still, this sell-out show by the reunited 1970s rockers was a solidly enjoyable affair, even if it never truly sparkled.

Rodgers, dressed like he was appearing in Pineapple Dance Studios, is one of rock’s greatest singers.

He may be 60 but he’s an energetic frontman – one minute banging away on a grand piano, the next hurling his mic stand into the air and catching it.

Bad Company’s best songs were all present and correct, from the tight, melodic riffing of Can’t Get Enough, Feel Like Makin’ Love and Shooting Star to the lovely, acoustic Seagull.

The problem, perhaps, is there just aren’t enough of them.

So, lads, here’s some Free advice – if you’re going to ride the nostalgia ticket, go all the way.