SCOTLAND'S biggest band of the moment, Biffy Clyro, played a sold out gig at Southampton's Guildhall last night.

The gig was brought forward three weeks to allow for November dates supporting Muse in Europe, but this didn't seem to affect crowd numbers in the slightest.

Opening with the anthemic That Golden Rule, much of the set came from the Puzzle album - probably for the best, as when tracks from 2002's Blackened Sky were played, some members of the audience were left bemused.

There wasn't much in the way of banter from frontman Simon Neil, other than the obligatory "How're you doing Southampton?" and "You've been a great crowd," - maybe they feel that their level of fame means they can cut out the small talk now.

The stage background left a lot to be desired too. Only halfway through the night did Biffy Clyro's light display come on, but even then they did little to alter the wow-factor of the set.

Highlights included Saturday Superhouse, Get Fucked Stud and Who's Got A Match, all from 2007's Puzzle, but the best response came during the encore for the three-piece's top five single Mountains, where the fans enthusiastically echoed Neil's every word.

Although there wasn't much in the way of encouraged audience participation, you couldn't help but feel you were part of something special. And from the crowd's reaction, it's clear that if Biffy Clyro want to play in Southampton again, the boys will be welcomed with open arms.

Allana Cutter