When Stereophonics emerged from the Welsh valleys a few years back, they were a fairly modern-sounding, literate indie-tinged power trio. Latterly, though, they've transformed into an overwrought hard-rock band with lengthy guitar and harmonica solos topped off by Kelly Jones's "raspier than Rod Stewart" croak. They are the latest victims of Classic Rock Syndrome, a particularly nasty condition that convinces guitar bands that, to cement their place in rock history, they have to start sounding like the "greats".

In Stereophonics' case this means the Faces and, as they make the wallet-swelling jump to arena status, their gigs have an atmosphere like that often experienced by the old rockers who saw Rod's combo in the 1970s. The combination of booze and bonhomie is seized upon when Jones dedicates The Last of the Big Time Drinkers to an audience with, "We know you like your beer."

Stereophonics maintain their common touch. Songs have themes such as the office girl whose new boss is "a nightmare", and Jones's quest for the lowest common denominator is ruthless. The new Movie Star makes the hugely insightful observation that celebrities are the new gods. Hold the front page.

The big news in their own camp is the departure of drummer Stuart Cable, who apparently had better things to do than turn up to their gigs. But, as with the Rolling Stones and Spinal Tap, no mention is made of the estranged founder member. Instead, the crowd are wondering who the stocky new bloke is and why the group are suddenly augmented by buxom and inaudible backing singers. The band's version of Handbags and Gladrags and their own anthemic Traffic reach the bleary poignancy associated with people wondering what went wrong. But Jones seems to be going through the motions. It might just be the ravages of Classic Rock Syndrome, but their song More Life in a Tramp's Vest contains a harsh truth.

· At Hull Arena tonight. Box office: 01482 325252. Then touring.