Fairport Convention epitomise the 60s phenomenon of British folk-rock, but they have gone through many changes since then. They last played live as a four-piece acoustic outfit; this tour, which coincides with their first studio album for some years, The Wood and the Wire, sees them transformed into a five-man electric band that puts the emphasis on rock rather than folk. Their excellent performance was both shaped by the band's history and surprisingly fresh.

Founder-member Simon Nicol's guitar work was impressive. Violinist Ric Sanders gave his Celtic reel, country and bluegrass a touch of scorching atonality. His slick fiddle duets with Chris Leslie were a joy. Leslie, Fairport's latest recruit, wrote much of the new album; despite their unfamiliarity, these compositions were as well received as old favourites such as Crazy Man Michael, Bowman's Retreat and Hiring Fair.

Nicol and Leslie sang with brio; joined by bassist Dave Pegg, their harmonies in Wandering Man were haunting. The lyrical numbers - Close to You, Heart of the Song - counterpointed the harder edge of pounding numbers like Rocky Road and Still a Mystery. Driven by Gerry Conway's solid percussion and Pegg's subtle basslines, these were satisfyingly gutsy.

Best of all were the slamming version of Matty Groves, snarlingly sung by Nicol, and the encore, Meet on the Ledge - the nearest thing there is to a Fairport greatest hit.

Fairport Convention play Buxton Opera House (01298 72190) tonight, then tour.