Nic Armstrong only landed a record contract after his girlfriend entered his demo tape in a talent contest. It didn't win but did find its way to One Little Indian, who released Armstrong's debut album, The Greatest White Liar, earlier this year. This gig represents the 25-year-old's last-ditch attempt to pursue a dream, so it's no surprise that the lyrics reflect long hours moping around the house on wet mornings.

Armstrong's Geordie rasp - part Eric Burdon, part Lee Mavers of the La's - enlivens several mundane solo songs, but it's the moments when he calls on his full band that will delight fans of his album. Sanitised Chuck Berry homages become blues explosions, the band throwing mod shapes as Armstrong staggers around in Cuban heels. The audience is largely indifferent, but the stage is filled with enthusiasm. Armstrong is that perfect shade of pastiche that leaves you wondering: is he driven by genuine passion? Or is he just putting us on?

· At the Arts Centre, Norwich, tomorrow, then touring. Box office: 01603 660352.