Cathal Smyth- Wilton's Music Hall. Wednesday 8th October 2014

In an alleyway in East London, Wilton's Music Hall waves shyly. Blink and you'll walk past it. I don't think the venue itself realises how beautiful it is; currently, it resembles a building site on the exterior, but on the inside it is remarkable.

Chords and notes can reach the ceiling effortlessly. The vocals can stretch up to the balcony which wraps around the seating in the stalls below. Due to a slight tilt of the building, there is a good view of the stage from all angles.

This week, Cathal Smyth is in residency for three nights. The Madness frontman took a seat on-stage in an armchair. Did any member of Madness really sit down? Cathal has poured his heart into his new album "A Comfortable Man"; and -dressed in a dapper smart cream suit with no tie- along with the armchair, he really looked every inch the definition of that.

Backed by the Joe Duddell Ensemble, plus actor and Dexy's singer Madeleine Hyland; this was a show that brought tears to eyes across the auditorium. The orchestra providing the tender tones. There is no heavy heavy monster sound here; it is very deft, each note considered.

This is a touching hour long set, making you smile and reflect throughout. The songs are about love, and the loss of love. You love Cathal all the more for it. The armchair is a lovely touch. For one song it is just Smyth and a piano. Together with the orchestra, it is stunning. The delicate vocal melodies in the final song You're Not Alone, are worth the trip to East London alone. A nod must also go to the lighting director and set designer, providing the perfect ambience and display.

Escapism is rare in this modern world. As the clapping dissipated and I walked away from Wilton's, I realised I had found my escape; between the rumble of the Docklands Light Railway and the lapping tides of the Thames at Wapping.