The Cat Stevens Story (Music Legends), at Chapel Off Chapel - 2 hours, including interval

Having sold more than 100 million records and amassed in excess of two billion streams, singer songwriter Cat Stevens’ laid back style of folk pop made him a leading hit maker in the 1960s and ‘70s.

And now, it all comes flooding back in a superbly rendered, melodious concert by a group known as Music Legends.

What an inspiring troupe of mighty talented performers they are, seemingly effortlessly channelling Cat Stevens’ special sound.

From soulful ballads to rousing, uplifting, up tempo numbers, it is all there.

Think Where Do The Children Play?, The First Cut Is The Deepest and (Remember the Days of the) Old Schoolyard for starters.

There are hits in abundance – from Sad Lisa to Matthew and Son, and Father and Son, and that is only in Act I.

On The Road To Find Out and Miles From Nowhere follow the break.

The second set also includes Moonshadow, Morning Has Broken, Longer Boats, Hard Headed Woman and Wild World.

And the offering wouldn’t be complete without an encore, incorporating Peace Train, You’ve Got a Friend and Tea for the Tillerman.

Leading from the front, with a superb, smooth tone and impressive vocal register is James van Cuylenburg on piano and guitar.

His mum, Wendy, taught him to tickle the ivories when he was a boy, while his dad, Eric, is a singing teacher. Both parents feature in the show.

James also spins yarns about the life and times of Cat Stevens and the positivity of the star’s music.

With James is back up vocalist Paul Davies on lead guitar. He also takes the lead on a few poignant songs that he sings masterfully.

James and Paul met on a church camp in the 1990s and have been performing together ever since. I can see and hear why.

As mentioned, making a special appearance is James’ equally talented father, Eric, whose vocalisation is as impressive as his son’s.

And before the concert is done, James’ mum Wendy and family friend Janet Vague also get in on the act, as backup vocalists.

Adding to the musical harmonies are Dave Prideaux on bass and Jeremy Hopkins on drums.

The atmosphere throughout is reflective of Cat Stevens: happy, relaxed and personable, in what becomes a tribute to the legacy of one of the great singer songwriters whose star shone brightly from his late teens.

The group mix up the combinations and permutations of the Cat’s repertoire as the show evolves.

They are simply outstanding when their voices coalesce.

Individually and collectively, they resonate … and how, as they endear themselves to, and connect with, an enthusiastic audience.

When you shut your eyes, I swear you are transported back to Cat Stevens in his prime. This band is that darn good. In fact, good sells them short. They are great.

Using the magnificent stained-glass windows of Chapel Theatre at Chapel Off Chapel – which glisten in the spotlights – as a backdrop elevates the offering to nothing short of the ethereal.

The music of Cat Stevens, as realised by Music Legends, is a most welcome and extra special experience.

This is the first time that they have performed The Cat Stevens Story.

They also have six other shows on the go, including The Paul McCartney Story and The Elton John Story, which are next on their touring schedule.

To find out more and to book tickets, you can follow Music Legends Productions on Facebook.