"IT was bostin" is the only way to describe Black Country Rock at Birmingham's Crescent Theatre.

Despite having read plenty about the show written by Rubery man Giovanni Esposito I was unsure what to expect but I was blown away by this hilarious, energetic musical which did not put a foot wrong.

It tells the tale of a fat chap, from The Black Country, who dreams of being a rock 'n' roll star despite working in a factory, having a knackered car and not a hint of sex appeal.

Unbelievably cat-chy songs sung with gusto kept the performance moving and I couldn't wait for the next tune -- usually at musicals I groan as the music starts!

Chris Swinney made his mark as wannabe rock 'n' roll star George and I loved his musical numbers including Maroon Morris Marian and Head Out The Cloud.

One of the funniest scenes of the show, which was packed with them, was The Bus and Chris's rendition of When I'm A God --the audience were virtually rolling around the aisles with tears streaming down their faces, it was the best laugh I've had in ages.

And one of my favourite characters was George's best mate Brian, played to perfection by Matthew Beard -- each time he stepped on stage it was a laugh a minute and for many he may well have stolen the show.

My only criticisms are the sound quality, at times -- it sometimes made the lines difficult to hear. Gushing praise, but it's all true.

l Review by LUCY SEARLE