Big Time On Bedford Street

So, last night was the rock and roll launch for the Ulster Hall, as bands and audience members were collectively giddy over their memories of the freshly renovated place. Don't be asking for a detailed summary of the night - frontstage and backstage were properly tumultuous. But here are some scattershot memories:

• Neil Hannon looking rather happy that the Lowly Knights had made such a fine job of 'Something For The Weekend'. In turn he does 'Gigantic' by The Pixies.

• This presenter asking the crowd for an Ulster Hall cheer. And getting one. Then introducing The Panama Kings, who do a dance version of 'A Life Less Ordinary'.

• Ash stealing 'Shining light' back from Annie Lennox.

• Happy faces and loud guitars from LaFaro and Cashier No 9. See also, Fighting With Wire and Andrew Ferris.

• Gary and Nathan from Snow Patrol making a surprise appearance with Iain Archer, singing a few of their own tunes plus 'Lay Me Down by The Frames'.

• Duke Special and Foy Vance, crowd surfing.

• Steve Wickam from the Waterboys, joining Duke Special for 'Fisherman's Blues'.

• Mike Edgar introducing Therapy. Who rock. And swear plenty. Then play a blistering rendition of 'Alternative Ulster'.

• Tim Wheeler bringing his dad on stage for the encore of 'Teenage Kicks' as the fireworks fizzled and all the bands exchanged hugs.

• All credit to Paul McClean. Rigsy and the extended ATL family. A milestone event.